Dharamshala, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and adventure activities. One such adventure activity that is popular among tourists is trekking to Kareri Lake. The trek to Kareri Lake is a must-do for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and photography enthusiasts. It is an easy to moderate trek that can be completed in two days. The trek takes you through lush green forests, gurgling streams, and majestic mountains, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
In this blog, we will guide you through the journey to Kareri Lake, including information on how to reach the lake, the best time to visit, and what to carry for trekking and camping. We will also provide some safety tips to keep in mind during the trek.
About Kareri Lake:
Kareri Lake is a high-altitude freshwater lake situated at an altitude of 2,934 meters in the Dhauladhar Range of the Himalayas. The lake is fed by the snow melting from the Dhauladhar Range and is surrounded by dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and deodar trees. The lake is considered sacred by the local people, who believe that the lake is the abode of Lord Shiva.
The lake is a popular destination for trekkers and campers, who come here to enjoy the scenic beauty and serene environment. The trek to Kareri Lake is a relatively easy one and is suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers.
How to reach Kareri Lake:
- Kareri Lake is located about 35 km from Dharamshala, and the journey to the lake involves a trek of around 14 km. The trek starts from the village of Kareri, which can be reached by road from Dharamshala.
- By Road: You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Dharamshala to Kareri village. The road journey takes about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Pathankot Railway Station, which is about 85 km from Dharamshala. From Pathankot, you can take a taxi or bus to Dharamshala and then proceed to Kareri village.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport in Kangra, which is about 20 km from Dharamshala. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Dharamshala and then proceed to Kareri village.
Best time to visit Kareri Lake:
The best time to visit Kareri Lake is from April to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Trekking to Kareri Lake:
The trek to Kareri Lake is a moderate trek that can be completed in two days. The trek starts from Kareri village and takes you through lush green forests, gurgling streams, and majestic mountains. The trail is well-marked and is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
Camping at Kareri Lake:
Camping at Kareri Lake is an unforgettable experience that allows you to enjoy the serene beauty of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The campsite is located on the banks of the lake, and you can hear the sound of the water and the rustling of leaves th