“Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, Drink the wild air’s salubrity.”-Ralph Waldo Emerson.
As the summer sun is warming up and with all weather predictions for hottest year, it sure that you might want to follow “mountains calling” to escape the heat. And, one of the attracting activities in summers are trekking to explore the picturesque landscapes across Himalayan regions.
Dharamshala, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, invites tourists for throughout the year. But summers make Dharamshala, one of the ideal destinations for weekend expeditions due to its quick connectivity and array of trekking spots.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker seeking a challenge or a nature lover craving serene trails, Dharamshala has something to offer.
Here are some of captivating treks and short-distance hikes you can explore to beat the heat and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Himalayan region:
Kareri Lake Trek: The trek starts from the village of Kareri, almost 25km aways from the main town of Dharamshala. The Kareri Lake trek is yet untouched and less-explored due to unviability of direct public transportation. One can hire two-wheeler to take a ride to the village. Once you start the trail, it takes you through lush meadows, pine forests, and quaint Himalayan villages. The highlight remains the stunning Kareri Lake, located at the elevation of 2,934 metres amidst Dahuladhar ranges and surrounded by alpine trees—a perfect spot to camp overnight. This trek is ideal for those seeking a slightly longer weekend trek.
Snowline Trek: You all have heard about Triund Trek, Snowline is an extension of that trail which leads you to Triund. The journey to Snowline adds an extra layer of adventure as the trail leading to Triund winds through dense oak and rhododendron forests, and beyond Triund, the trail meanders through rocky terrain leading to snowline, offering panoramic views of snow-clad Dhauladhar range. One can find snow patches during early summer. Also, this one trek is pretty facilitated with basic amenities due to its popularity among tourists.
Himani Chamunda Trek: This one is very popular among locals as they visit the temple every season during summers. The trek starts from Jia village, ascending through dense forests and open meadows, offering glimpses of the Himalayan peaks and a 360-degree view of Kangra Valley. From Jia village, trail is only about 7.4 kilometres one way, but the ascent takes 3-4 hours to complete as the route is moderately tough. Although the Himani Chamunda Trek will offer raw experience, but it is very well-maintained during summers as one can find several shops, solar lights and shelters on the way to top.
Gallu Waterfall Trek: This is short yet captivating trek starts from Dharamkot and takes only an hour of hike. This short hike is one of Dharamshala’s hidden gem awaiting exploration, the trail promises nature’s breathtaking beauty, captivated by serene forests, and the mesmerizing rush of cascading waters that will sooth your senses. Once you approach the waterfall, the landscape changes from dense forest to a rocky landscape adorned with delicate mosses and ferns.
Indrahar Pass Trek: This one is for seasoned trekkers looking for a challenging weekend adventure. The Indrahar Pass Trek will take you through awe-inspiring landscapes and culminates at a breathtaking mountain pass. The trek typically spans over 3 to 4 days, depending on your itinerary and pace. One should start early in the morning to avoid scorching heat if the day. It is suitable for experienced trekkers or those with a good level of fitness as the trail involves steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and potentially unpredictable weather conditions. It’s recommended to acclimatize properly before attempting this trek.
The trek to Indrahar Pass begins from McLeod Ganj or Dharamkot near Dharamshala. One can enjoy stunning views of the Dhauladhar range, distant snow-capped peaks along with small streams, waterfalls on the way.
So, this summer, began your adventure trail with Dharamshala’s weekend treks to get a glimpse into the untamed beauty of the Himalayas. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Dharamshala this summer.
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