Kareri Lake Trek: Explore the best Trek

Overview

Are you a traveller, trekker, or a 20-year-old looking for an exciting adventure? Look no further as the Kareri Lake Trek is the perfect choice for you!

Himalayan Ecology

The Kareri Lake Trek takes you through the stunning Himalayan region, showcasing the beauty of nature. As you trek, you’ll come across several fascinating flora and fauna, making the trek even more worth it. The trail goes through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and deodar trees, creating a breathtaking experience for trekker lovers. The region is also home to several animal species like the Himalayan Black Bear, Brown Bear, Leopard, and various birds like the Himalayan Monal, Cheer Pheasant, and many others. To explore such exotic ecology while trekking is truly a lifetime experience.

Kareri Lake Trek

The Kareri Lake Trek is a beautiful trek that starts from Kareri Village, which is located about 30 kilometers from Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. This trek is perfect for trekkers who are looking for an easy to moderate level of challenge. The trek usually takes about two to three days and is around 25 kilometers in total. It involves crossing rivers, hills, and forests before reaching the stunning lake.

The trek starts from Kareri Village, which is a cultural hub of the region. It is home to several heritage sites, including the ancient temple of Lord Shiva, which is believed to be around 700 years old. As you start your trek, you’ll also encounter locals who are warm and welcoming. The trek provides you with a unique opportunity to explore the local culture and engage with them, making your experience even more memorable.

As you trek towards the lake, you’ll come across several landmarks like Gaddi village and the temple of Lord Shiva. The trail goes through lush green forests and meadows, which is truly a sight to behold. The peak of the trek is the stunning Kareri Lake, which is nestled amidst the Dhauladhar Range at an altitude of 2950 meters. The lake is fed by the melting snow of the Dhauladhar range and is known for its crystal clear waters. The lake is surrounded by snow-clad mountains, making it a surreal experience for trekkers.

Kareri Village

The Kareri Village is a small but charming settlement located in the Dhauladhar Range of the Himalayas. The village is surrounded by beautiful forests of cedar, oak, and rhododendron. The village is home to several small businesses, including guesthouses, cafes, and shops that cater to tourists and trekkers. The village is known for its warm hospitality and welcoming locals.While in Kareri Village, be sure to explore the ancient temples and heritage sites that are located in and around the village. The village is also an excellent place to engage with locals and learn about their culture and way of life.

The Kareri Lake Trek is a great place to see a variety of wildlife. The forests along the trail are home to a number of birds, including the Indian cuckoo, the red-billed blue magpie, and the Himalayan thrush. You may also spot deer, monkeys, and even the occasional leopard.

The Trek also passes through a variety of plant communities. The lower slopes of the mountains are covered in broadleaf trees, such as oak, maple, and chestnut. Higher up, the trees give way to coniferous forests, which are home to pines, firs, and cedars.

The Kareri Lake Trek passes through a number of villages, where you can meet the local people. The people of this region are mostly farmers and herders. They are a friendly and welcoming people, and they are always happy to help trekkers.

Best Time to Visit: 

The Kareri Lake Trek is best enjoyed from April to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and the trail is accessible. During these months, the region experiences mild temperatures, clear skies, and minimal chances of rainfall. However, do check the weather conditions before you embark on your journey, as the mountains are known for their unpredictability.

Getting There: 

The trek begins from the village of Kareri, located approximately 40 kilometers from Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. Dharamshala is well connected by road and has good connectivity to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. You can either take a bus or hire a private cab to reach Dharamshala. From Dharamshala, hire a local taxi or shared cab to reach Kareri village, which serves as the basecamp for the trek.

Permits and Guides: 

To undertake the Kareri Lake Trek, you need to obtain a permit from the Forest Department of Himachal Pradesh. The permit can be obtained either in Dharamshala or at the Forest Office in Kareri village. It is advisable to hire a local guide or join a trekking group for a safe and enriching experience. Local guides have extensive knowledge of the trail, terrain, and can also assist with camping arrangements.

Accommodation and Camping: 

During the trek, you’ll be camping in tents at designated campsites. It is recommended to carry your own camping gear or opt for a trekking agency that provides camping facilities. Kareri village has a few guesthouses and homestays for accommodation before and after the trek. 

So, what are you waiting for?