Kareri Lake is an alpine high altitude lake perched at an elevation of 2,934m in Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh. Kareri lake is the known trekking destination in the Dhauladhars and recommended to both beginners and experienced trekkers. Snow melting from the Dhauladhar mountains serves as the source of the shallow fresh lake.
The Kareri lake trek is a 13km long trek still pristine and less explored. The trek is one of the scenic treks which offers gushing waterfalls, beautiful meadows, several wooden bridge crossing, tiny villages, and forests of pines and oaks. For reaching the Kareri Lake you have to cross the Kareri Nallah several times and this will add more adventure and excitement to the trek. The trek starts from Kareri Village and from there you have to move the Lioti Village. You will see small waterfalls, shops, and village people on the trek. Next, the trek moves towards Kareri Lake for that you will pass some dense forests, soaring mountains, and the rocky trail gets muddy. You will see the captivating views of the Baleni Pass, Minkani Pass and a valley located below.
Kareri lake is spread in the area of 9km and surrounded by the cedar and oak forest, snow-covered mountains, verdant pastures of greenery all around. Blue skies, majestic mountains, greenery, and crystal clear lake is a perfect place to spend your day and feel nature in its best form. Camping near the lake adds charm to your trip. The lake gets frozen in the months of December to March.
Kareri Lake also serves as a gateway to other treks in the Dhauladhars, the Chamba and Bharmour via Minkani Pass.
The best time to visit the Lake is August to February. The lake gets frozen in winters. In springtime, the lush green forests around the lake bloom and place a clear picture of the surroundings. In monsoon, the trail gets muddy and slippery so, it is advised not to visit the lake.
For the Kareri Lake trek, you have to reach Dharamshala first. It is your choice you can start this trek from Dharamshala or Mcleodganj (2km from Dharamshala).
By Air: Take a direct flight from Delhi to Dharamshala. The nearest is the Gaggal Airport which is at a distance of 13km from Dharamshala. You will easily get a cab or local bus from outside the airport to reach Dharamshala or Mcleodganj.
By Train: The nearest railway station is at Pathankot which is 85km away from Dharamshala. There are a lot of trains available from Delhi to Pathankot. An overnight journey will be a good option. You can easily find cabs or buses who are willing to take you to Dharamshala.
By Bus: Take direct buses from Delhi and Chandigarh to reach Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.
Some trekking tips :
- Carry minimum weight and travel light.
- Always carry minimum cash with you as you won’t find a lot of ATMs there.
- Do not litter. Keep the lake and surroundings clean.
- Book your package with a good travel company
- Pack your back with all the essential clothes, toiletries, and do not forget a pair of good trekking shoes.
- Explore the tiny villages. (culture, lifestyle)
- Be nice to people. Do not misbehave.
- If a beginner, then exercises daily and prepare yourself for the trek.
- Always trek with an experienced trek leader.
- Carry ID proofs.
- Carry a water bottle and eatables with you.
Other treks you can do near the Kareri lake trek are:
Triund: Triund is another perfect getaway which starts from Mcleodganj or Dharamshala. The total trek is 9 km and considered the easiest trek in Himachal Pradesh. The trek offers great views of Dhauladhars from the Triund top and some of the best sunsets and sunrises. You can expend the trek to Lahesh caves which are ahead of Triund.
Beas Kund: If you have a couple of days then you do Beas Kund trek. It a holy lake in the Kullu valley and originates from River Beas. The trek offers great views of Indrasan, Hanuman Tibba, and Deo Tibba Peaks. It is a short trek of three days and a perfect weekend trek you can enjoy with the views of Solang Nallah and the famous Manu temple.
Pundrik Lake: It is another beautiful trek that is near the Kareri Lake trek. Pundrik Lake trek is in the Sainj valley in the Kullu region. Sainj Valley is truly a wonderland for nature lovers all surrounded by lush greenery and vast meadows. The holy lake is in the valley will feast your eyes with greenery, tall pines, and oaks all around and great views of the snow-covered mountains.
Kareri Lake is a beautiful day to spend your weekend and breathe some fresh air with chilly breezes, and shiny sun. Plan your next weekend trip to this easy and beautiful adventure.
Live. Travel. Explore!!
