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Kareri Lake trek

  • The Caucasus Mountains are a mountain range at the intersection of Asia and Europe

Facts About Kareri Lake

Start and End points of the trek: Kareri Village

Altitude:  2,941 metres

Duration:  3 Days, 2 Nights 

Kareri Lake Trek distance:  25 km

Difficulty Level:  Easy – Moderate

Temperature: 35 degrees during the days in the summer season, while the temperature in the winter hits the negatives.

Best time: December end to March end (Snow Trek), April to June, September t0 Mid December.

Nearest Railway station: Pathankot Cantt. railway station.

Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport.

 

Overview

Kareri Lake trek is a beautiful trek with a freshwater high altitude tarn situated 2,934 meters above sea level and a less explored trekking destination in the Dhauladhars. It is also known as the gateway to the Chamba Valley and shepherds opt for the Kareri-Minkiani Pass & Baleni Pass to cross over the Dhauladhars.

Kareri lake trek begins near a bridge after crossing the Kareri village. The beginning part of the trek is moderate but once you cross the stream you’ll find it pretty and serene. On the other side of the lake, there are a few Gaddi-kothis.

From early December until March and April, the lake is frozen. The lake is a perfect getaway for extended weekend trekking.

Kareri lake trek is meant for beginners and experienced trekkers as well.

HOW TO REACH

Pick point and drop point is ISBT, Dharamshala. Dharamshala is well connected to all major cities of India

By Air: Kangra Airport is the Nearest Airport. You can get here by connecting flights from New Delhi and Chandigarh Airports. Flight to Kangra airport is expensive.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Pathankot Railway Station from there you can take a bus or taxi to Dharamshala. You’ll get a direct bus to Dharamshala from Pathankot Which is 85 km and takes 3 to 4 hours.

By Road: Overnight buses run from New Delhi to Dharamshala. You can also get buses to Dharamshala from Shimla, Manali, Dehradun, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Jammu, Amritsar and Pathankot.

We recommend you to book a flight to either New Delhi or Chandigarh airport and then take an overnight Volvo to Dharamshala. Himachal state govt. Volvo bus ‘Himsuta’ is the most trustworthy and comfortable bus service on this route. Whichever bus you choose, make sure to reach Dharamshala at-least by 7-8am.

Taking a bus from Chandigarh is the best option as it takes 7 hours to reach here.

Once you reach ISBT, Dharamshala or Govt. Bus stand. Team HRI will take care of your further travel. Dharamshala bus stand is a pick and drop point.

What is the best time to do Kareri Lake Trek?

The best time to do Kareri lake trek is around the year except monsoons like last week of June to early days of September. In winter months, due to snow & cold, the trek becomes a little challenging but it’s doable with expert guides and you’ll experience a snow trek in January to March.

Is previous trekking experience necessary for the Kareri Lake Trek?

No, previous trekking experience is not necessary for Kareri lake trek as it is suitable for beginners.

What’s the altitude of Kareri Lake Trek?

Kareri lake is located at an altitude of 2,941 meters above sea level which is 9,650 in feet.

Heaven Riders India offers you an opportunity to experience the best Kareri Lake trekking in Dhauladhars. The trip starts and ends at the famous tourist destination ‘Dharamshala‘.

Highlights

  • TREAT TO EYES BCZ OF DHAULADHAR RANGES AND OAK TREES & ALPINE FORESTS
  • VIEWS OF CROSSOVER TO CHAMBA VALLEY, MINKIANI PASS 4250m & BALENI PASS 3710m
  • TERRIFIC TREK FOR NATURE & MOUNTAIN LOVERS
  • TRAIL ALONG THE WATER STREAM, DETOX THE CITY LIFE

Tour Plan

Day 01 Arrive Dharamshala, Drive to Kareri Village, Trek to Base Camp

Altitude:- Dharamshala 4,800 ft to base camp 8,000 ft
• 2 hour drive to Kareri village
• 6km, 4-5 hours trek
• Enough water through the trail
• Easy-Moderate trail.

Your pick up will be arranged from ISBT, Dharamshala at 8am in the morning and drive to Kareri Village. It will be a two hour journey, enjoy the scenic drive.
Start the trek where you will pass through forest and grasslands. There is a slight ascent. You will be completing the 6 km trek in 4 hours.
Enjoy the breathtaking beauty and camp at the riverside for the night. Evening snacks and dinner will be served. Stay in camps.

Included: Pick up, taxi, Guide, Lunch, Dinner, Camp Stay

Day 02 Trek to Kareri Lake and return

Altitude:- Kareri Lake 9,600ft

• 7km, 6-7 hours, enjoy the views at Kareri lake
• Enough water through the trail
• Easy-Moderate trail.

Today you will be moving to Kareri Lake which is at the height of 9,800ft. The trail will surprise you as you will walk through Oak, Pine and Rhododendron trees.
The trail also passes through small water streams and rivers. It will take almost 4-5 hours to reach the lake as it has some steep climbs. Enjoy the beauty of Dhauladhar range and the lake view.
Later you'll be return to the base camp.

Includes: Breakfast, Pack Lunch, Guide, Safety Gears, Dinner, Camp Stay

Day 03 Departure Day

Breakfast and start down hill trek
• 6km, 3-4 hours trek
• Enough water through the trail
• Drive to Dharamshala, drop at ISBT only

We head back to the same trail treading through oak, pine trees which would take between 3-4 hours and back from there to Dharamshala by taxi, will reach Dharamshala around 4 in the evening. Drop point would be ISBT, Dharamshala.

Includes: Breakfast, Guide, Taxi, Drop at ISBT Dharamshala.

Included/Excluded

  • Accommodation during Trek in shared camps for 2 nights.
  • While on the walk, healthy and nutritious meals (Day 1 Lunch to Day 3 Breakfast).
  • Morning & Evening Tea, Maggie/Snacks/Soup in the evening.
  • Transportation as per itinerary (Dharamshala to Kareri, & return).
  • Pick & Drop at ISBT, Dharamshala.
  • Camping Equipment like Tents, Sleeping Bag, Mattress, Kitchen & Dining equipment etc.
  • All required Forest, Camping, and Trekking Permits, as well as entry fees.
  • Basic First Aid Medical Kit.
  • Expert & Certified Trek leader, Guide
  • Cook, Helpers, Porter & Mules to carry logistics & camping equipment
  • followed by full power fun.
  • Any services not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Any insurance, emergency evacuation or rescue charges, any cost of hospitalization.
  • Any change in itinerary, cost arises due to road blockage, natural calamity, sudden halt, non-completion of trek or any cost beyond our control to be borne by trekker/you.
  • Expenses personal in nature like mountain tips, mineral water, drinks, snacks/meals, refreshments not mentioned in the inclusions.
  • Insurance or liability for injury, death, accidents, or loss of property.
  • GST/Taxes.
Things to Carry

Headwear & Accessories

  • Woolen Cap – 1
  • Sun Cap / Hat – 1
  • Gloves – 1 pair
  • Socks – 3 pairs
  • Woolen Socks – 1 pair
  • UV Protected Sunglasses – 1 (Mandatory)

Headwear & Accessories

  • Woolen Cap – 1
  • Sun Cap / Hat – 1
  • Gloves – 1 pair
  • Socks – 3 pairs
  • Woolen Socks – 1 pair
  • UV Protected Sunglasses – 1 (Mandatory)

Clothing (Upper Body)

  • Wind & Waterproof Jacket – 1
  • Fleece Jacket – 1
  • Jacket – 1
  • Collared Full Sleeve T-Shirt – 2
  • Neck Warmer – 1

Bottom Wear

  • Trekking Pant – 2

Footwear

  • Waterproof Trekking Shoes with good grip

Food & Hydration

  • Dry Ration (ORS, Dry Fruits, Chocolates, Protein Bars, etc.)

Medical Essentials

  • Personal Medicines (as per medical advice)
  • Inhalers (for asthma sufferers)

Personal Toiletries

  • Toothpaste
  • Toothbrush
  • Face Wash
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Cold Cream
  • Sunscreen Lotion
  • Lip Balm / Lip Guard
  • Quick Dry Towel
  • Toilet Paper

Equipment & Essentials

  • Head Lamp – 1 (Mandatory)
  • Four extra pairs of batteries
  • Power Bank (for mobile & camera)
  • Water Bottle – 2 (Mandatory)

Bags & Storage

  • Rucksack (40 Ltrs) with rain cover
  • Daypack (20 Ltrs) with rain cover

Rain Protection

  • Poncho / Rain Suit – 1 (Mandatory)
Mandatory Documents
  • Original & Copy of Valid Govt. Id (any of Passport/Aadhaar Card)
  • Medical Certificate from registered Medical Practitioner (Minimum MBBS)
  • Passport size photograph – Valid passport and visa required for Foreign
Health & Fitness

Trekking demands strong cardiovascular endurance, leg power, core stability, and overall stamina to handle long hours on steep, uneven, and rocky terrain. Depending on the difficulty level, trekkers should ideally be capable of jogging 4–7 km in 20–40 minutes.

Preparing your body in advance significantly enhances safety, performance, and enjoyment during the trek.

Core Physical Fitness Requirements

1. Cardiovascular Endurance

Strong heart and lung capacity are essential, especially for high-altitude treks where oxygen levels are lower.

Training Goal:

  • 30–60 minutes of cardio
  • 4–5 days per week
  • Activities: Jogging, running, brisk walking, swimming, or cycling

2. Leg Strength

Powerful legs are crucial for ascending steep slopes and descending uneven, rocky paths.

Focus Exercises:

  • Squats
  • Lunges
  • Step-ups
  • Calf raises

3. Core & Upper Body Strength

A strong core and upper body help you carry a backpack comfortably for extended hours.

Recommended Exercises:

  • Planks
  • Push-ups
  • Overhead presses
  • Back extensions

4. Flexibility & Stamina

Flexibility reduces muscle stiffness, prevents injury, and improves endurance.

Include:

  • Yoga
  • Dynamic stretching before workouts
  • Static stretching post-workout

Training & Preparation Tips

Stair Climbing

One of the most effective ways to simulate trekking conditions. It prepares you for both ascent and descent.

Load Training

Practice walking with a weighted backpack to replicate real trek conditions.

Rest & Recovery

Allow proper recovery time. Include at least 1–2 rest days per week to prevent overtraining.

Health Check-Up

Consult a medical professional before high-altitude treks, especially if you have:

  • Asthma
  • Hypertension
  • Heart conditions
  • Respiratory concerns

Sample Weekly Training Plan (Example)

Monday / Wednesday / Friday
→ 30–45 minutes brisk walk, jogging, or uphill walking

Tuesday / Thursday
→ Strength training (Squats, Lunges, Planks, Push-ups)

Saturday
→ Long-duration hike or extended stair-climbing session

Sunday
→ Rest day or light stretching / yoga

Key Preparation Goals

  • Build endurance to comfortably carry a weighted backpack for 3–4 hours
  • Achieve the ability to jog 5 km in under 30 minutes (for moderate treks)

Begin structured training 4–8 weeks before your trek

Policies

Kareri Lake Trek Policies

Confirmation Policy

  • The customer receives a confirmation voucher via email within 24 hours of successful booking
  • In case the preferred slots are unavailable, an alternate schedule of the customer’s preference will be arranged and a new confirmation voucher will be sent via email.
  • Alternatively, the customer may choose to cancel their booking before confirmation and a full refund will be processed.

Cancellation Policy

  • Booking amount is strictly non-refundable in all cases.

  • Cancellation requests must be made via email only (reply to your payment receipt email). No cancellations will be accepted via call or WhatsApp.

Refund Structure:

  • Up to 30 days before departure: 10% deduction (gateway & bank charges).

  • 30 to 15 days before departure: 50% deduction.

  • Within 15 days of departure: No refund.

Important Notes:

  • No refund will be provided for cancellations due to bad weather, natural calamities, government restrictions, roadblocks, strikes, landslides, lockdowns, or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control.

  • If the trip is cancelled by us due to insufficient participants, a full refund will be issued (excluding add-ons such as rentals, insurance, porterage, transport, etc.).

  • Any additional expenses due to delays, extended stay, weather, or emergencies must be borne by the participant.

  • Refunds (if applicable) will be processed within 10 working days to the original payment method.

For More Info: https://heavenridersindia.com/cancellation-policy/

Payment & Booking Policy

  • To confirm your slot, an advance payment of INR 10,000 per person is required via Bank Transfer or UPI.

  • The remaining balance must be paid at least 7 days prior to the pickup date.

  • The booking amount is strictly non-refundable in all cases.

  • After making the payment, please email the transaction details/receipt to:
    heavenridersindia@gmail.com for booking confirmation.

For More Info: https://heavenridersindia/payment-policy/

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