The Dhauladhar deserves a special mention for its high altitude glacial lakes, which have mythical background and are considered extremely sacred by local residents, who makes pilgrimage to these lakes during the monsoon and post monsoon season.These lakes are considered the abode of Lord Shiva.They are located in the midst of paradisal grandeur.The most prominent amoung them in the Dhauladhar region are Lamdal and the Nagdal.
In the region between Minkiani Pass and Indrahar Pass there are seven big and small lakes. Lamdal , is as elevation of 3900M and approachable from Minkinai Pass 4250M AND Gag Pass 4350M.This lake is the largest and deepest in the area.En - route to Lamdal and Nag Dal are other lakes that can be traversed in two days from Minkiani Got by experienced trekkers.Hence this region is also popularly known as area of seven lakes.
The trek goes through a mixed forest of oak, rhododendron and deodar trees. First two kilometers is a steep ascent but there is a gradual ascent after Galu Devi Temple. The last 1 kilometer is again a steep ascent through the forest. Triund is a flat meadow on top of a ridge. From here the panoramic view of Dhauladhar range on one side and Kangra valley on other is a memorable sight. Night stay at tents or private houses.
This is an acclimatization day. After a short ascent from Triund traverse a ridge to reach Laka Got a temporary shepherd camp. Laka Got is situated at the snout of small glacier, which is full of snow and ice in early summer, and the snow melts away during the monsoon. From Laka Got it is a sleep ascent for 2 km. Over rocky ridge to reach Lahesh cave. Night stay in the cave of camp at Laka Got.
Starting early in the morning, the weather gets bad in the afternoon. In early summer April to may the trail is full of snow and requires good equipment. During post monsoon Sept. to Nov. There is no snow or ice and there is a narrow trail going up to the pass. It takes about three hours to pass and another three hours to come down. From the pass entire Pir Panjal range of central Himalayas is a sight to behold. O/N Nag Dal
Lamdal is the biggest and deepest lake in the Dhauldhar region elevation 3900M and Kali Kund a well - shaped lake is about 150 M below Lamdal. It is worshiped by devotees because of its religious background. O/N Camp at Naggar a beautiful camping site.
After cross Minkiani Pass 4250 M we reach Kareri Lake. Kareri Lake is a small shelter with a small pond known as Sati Kund. It is said that a Gaddi women whose husband had gone to take holy dip at Lam Dal lake and never returned, Immolated her at this spot. O/N Camp near by the Lake side.
After breakfast we start trek downhill to Kareri village. The whole trail is rocky and thickly wooded. Afternoon we reach Kareri village known as shepherd village is well connected with road to Dharamshala where we use transport to Dharmshala.
Transport Options (Delhi – Mcleod ganj – Delhi)
For travel to Mcleod ganj and back one can choose between air, rail & road. For air travel, the closest airport is the Gaggal DHM, also known as Kangra Airport, or Dharamshala Airport and is well connected to Delhi and other parts of the country by Indigo, Alliance Air , Spice Jet.
There are frequent Public Transport buses including Volvos available from Delhi to Mcleodganj that cost about Rs. 1200- 1500 per person. These buses depart from Majnu ka tilla every 30 mins. or so and take about 12 hrs to cover the distance. The same is also applicable on the return journey. A private vehicle could also be arranged for if you require the same.
Weather Details
Summer in Mcleod ganj extends from March to June when the temperature variation is recorded to be ranging between 23°c and 27°c. Mercury sometimes reaches up to 38°c but never goes beyond that. During winters the temperature can drop to -1° and the maximum temperature hardly goes up to 20°c.
Please keep in mind that the above information is not exact and does not account for sudden changes. Whatever the temperatures and conditions rest assured we will be prepared to handle it with ease as we use equipment of very high specifications
The best time is June to September when the snow has melted, and the lakes are at their most scenic.
The trek is moderate to challenging, requiring good endurance due to steep climbs, long trekking hours, and high altitudes. Prior trekking experience is recommended.
The trek covers approximately 50-70 km, depending on the route, and takes 7-10 days.
The highest point varies but generally reaches around 4,000+ meters (13,000+ feet).
Permits may be required depending on the exact location of the trek. It’s best to check with local authorities or hire a guide who can arrange necessary paperwork.
Mobile connectivity is extremely limited or non-existent for most of the trek.