Khirganga Trek
Khirganga Trek: A Hike of Beauty and Challenge
That one destination that lies in the repository of Himalayan beauty is an extraordinary trekking spot. Through the Meadows, Pine trees, cascades, and towns you reach the Summit at an altitude of almost 10,000 feet.
The locals of the place believe that Karthikeyan’s son of Lord Shiva meditated in that place for thousands of years. The place of awaits with the cross-culture mix of Indian and Hippie to surprise you.
KhirGanga Trek is a beginner-friendly Trek and does not need prior trekking experience or much time.
About Kheerganga Trek
Kheerganga is a popular trekking destination in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known for its natural hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. The trek to Kheerganga starts from the village of Barshaini, and it takes about 6-7 hours to complete. The trail passes through dense forests and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you will encounter a number of small villages and temples, and you may also spot some wildlife. At the end of the trek, you will reach the village of Kheerganga, which is home to a number of guesthouses, restaurants, and cafes. The hot springs here are located in a small pool and are open for public use. Many people visit Kheerganga for its peaceful and serene atmosphere, and it is a popular destination for backpackers and nature lovers.
Prerequisites for Khirganga Trekking
- To begin KhirGanga Trek pack your bags with the necessary things to cope with the climatic conditions of the place.
- kheerGanga altitude is 13,000 feet above sea level so You will need warm clothes, thermal Wear, a water bottle, extra pair of socks, hiking shoes insect repellent, woolen wear, etc.
- Most importantly have minimum luggage to avoid hassles.
- Lastly, in case you have any medical issues consult a physician before taking the trek and carry basic medications and a first aid kit for safety purposes.
Know Before you Go KhirGanga Trek
- kids below the age of 7 are not allowed to take up the KhirGanga trek
- The climatic conditions at high altitudes vary from the Plains.
- Backup of water is very important.
- Try to avoid earphones while trekking to stay away from audibility issues.
- All the activities are dependent on the weather condition of the place.
- Try to avoid the consumption of intoxicating substances.
Quick Facts about The Trek
- Barshaini is the start of the track.
- The height of KheerGanga Trek is 9600 feet.
- The temperature ranges from 8°c-15°c during the day and falls to 0°c- -3°c during the night.
- The entire trek covers a distance of 14 km.
- The last ATM life at Kasol
- Difficulty range of this trek: beginner-friendly
How to Reach KheerGanga Trek
Barshaini lies 20 km far from Kasol. To reach the starting point you can opt for a private cab or sharing cab or choose to reach there in your private vehicle.
From there you have three options or routes to reach KhirGanga.
1. Way via Nakthan Village
After crossing the bridge at Barshaini choose left and keep heading towards the destination. This is the most preferred route as it is the easiest and shortest and suitable for beginners, to begin with. This route is most popular and it lies left of the Parvati river. The trail is well marked.
2. Way via kalga village
This hidden route is used by very few experienced trekkers as there are chances of trekkers being lost in their way. After crossing the bridge in Barshaini, the route on the right leads you to Kalga village through dense forest and joins the main route Halfway on the trek.
3. Way via the Tosh village
This route is highly preferred by tourists who stay in Tosh at night and prefer to Trek in the morning. Tosh Nallah or river flows near the village and joins the Parvati river near Pulga. It joins the main route near Nakthan village.
The Trek Begins
The trek begins with a short climb and passes through the enchanting Apple orchards. The pitching high deodhar trees from Kalga tells about the dominance of nature throughout the route. The traditional Himachali Nakthan village offers trekkers and travelers a resting break at a few cafes in that place. The route from Tosh joints the main route right after crossing Nakthan village.
A short walk from away the village lies Rudranag Temple accompanied by a serene waterfall, where you can fill your water bottles. For pilgrims who prefer to stay, there is a Dharamshala near the place.
This place also has a few cafes. Apart from the temple, you can hear the river Parvati rushing Her way down with the delightful view of Pine forest towering near the mountain peak. after about 30 minutes from the shrine, you will reach a bridge to the right and the Uphill climb begins to hear. It is advised not to take up the shortcut and remain to clench to the main route.
Half-day on the trek, you will come across the huge waterfall. The trail reaches its difficulty level after crossing this. The continuous climb tests your endurance but it’s worth the test as the entire way presents you with the scenic beauty of the forest.
Just 45 minutes before reaching the destination you will come across a waterfall flaunting its flowing beauty on the path. After hours of walking, you will witness a tarpaulin-covered hut hinting you the start of KheerGanga. The temple and the hot water spring lies at the top of all huts and campsites and can be covered with then 10 minutes of walking.
If you wish to stay at Kheer Ganga, you have accommodation with basic facilities but if you wish to return it takes just half the time that you took while hiking up so you can get back to Barshaini within 1½ to 2 hours.
Best Time to Visit Kheerganga
Though it is possible to trek all through the year, the path may be snowed out in peak winters, and trekking that time can be avoided.
Conclusion
Overall Khirganga Trek is an easy to trek for beginners So pack your bags and enjoy this beautiful Kheerganga Trek.
Vicky Thakur
Travel Blogger