All you need to know about the Kareri Lake trek

Take a deep breath and picture yourself sitting on the banks of a lake sounded by mountains. There’s no sound other than the little chirps from nature, and your fellow trekkers. That’s how calming the reward for completing Kareri Lake trek can be. But this isn’t even the best part. This trek takes you through a forest, there’s even a small waterfall on the way which poses as the perfect spot for bird-watching. And, you can meet locals from the Gaddi Tribe who live in Kareri village and learn more about their culture.

Majestic Kareri lake in the quaint village of Kareri, Himachal Pradesh

All you need to know about the Kareri Lake trek

Why you must trek to Kareri Lake?

The Kareri Lake trek is the perfect weekend adventure to go on if you’re touring the Kangra district. Located in Himachal Pradesh on the southern side of the Dhauladhar range, this trek takes you to the high-altitude freshwater Kareri lake. This glacial lake is shallow and ideal to dip your feet into after the trek. Surrounded by lush meadows and stunning views, it offers a serene escape into nature's beauty.

• Altitude: 2934 metres above sea level
• Trek route: Kareri Village - Rioti Village - Kareri lake
• Trek duration: Approximately 7-8 hours
• Trek difficulty: Moderate 

Kareri village to Rioti village

Once you begin the trek at the Kareri village , you’ll pass through a sub-tropical forest abundant with chir and chilgoza pines, and broad-leaf species. The trek route is dotted with lots of campsites along the way and small food stalls that provide much-needed refreshments at various spots.

A few minutes after you’ve crossed the Nolli bridge, the forest continues and eventually leads you to Nyund nallah. You’ll spot local shepherds herding sheep here and birds like the warbler, redstart and brown dipper, which are a common sight around the stream. Look up and catch sight of the Himalayan griffon vultures gliding around too.

Rioti Village to Kareri Lake

After you reach the banks of the nallah at Rioti Village, it’s advisable to camp for the night. Sleep under the stars or choose to spend the night at a Gaddi hut along the nallah. This campsite is where you can rent a tent and dig into Maggi, tea, and wholesome meals like dal or curry with rice.

The second leg of the trek takes you to a hilltop across the nallah, where a Shiv temple is the highlight. On the other side of this hill is the picturesque Kareri Lake. This beautiful glacial lake is shallow at the banks and its water is cool. But you can sit here and take in the views of the ice and grey rocks of the mighty Dhauladhar range. You can later descend to Kareri village before sunset.

Picture - Unsplash 

How to get to Kareri Lake

By Air: The nearest airport to Kareri is Kangra Airport (also known as Gaggal Airport), which is around 15 kilometres from Dharamshala. From Kangra Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Dharamshala, which is a short 30-minute drive. From Dharamshala to Kareri, you can continue by taxi or local bus to reach your starting point for the trek.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Kareri Lake is Pathankot, well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Amritsar, and Chandigarh. From Pathankot, hire a cab or take a bus to Dharamshala. From Dharamshala to Kareri village, the base for the Kareri Lake trek, you can travel either by taxi or local bus. Kareri village is about 27 kilometres from Dharamshala.

By Road: If you are thinking how to reach Kareri lake by road, you must drive to Dharamshala, which is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi (around 480 km), Chandigarh (around 250 km), and Amritsar (around 200 km). You can also take a bus from these cities to Dharamshala. From Dharamshala to Kareri is just 11 kms, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Kareri village.

Picture - Unsplash 

Things to know before you trek to Kareri Lake

• The Kareri Lake trek is an easy-to-moderate trek, so a good level of physical fitness is recommended. Prepare with some cardio and endurance exercises before your trip.
• The weather at Kareri is unpredictable, so don’t forget to carry your rainwear, especially during the monsoon. Pack layers, including a warm jacket, rain gear, and sturdy trekking shoes.
• If you plan to stay at Kareri for more than one night, it’s advisable to arrange for food and water from Ghera Village. If you're planning to camp, bring your own camping gear or check with local guides for available options.
• ATMs are only available at Dharamshala, so it’s best to make your arrangements before you head out.
• Although the trail is well-marked, hiring a local guide can enhance your experience and ensure you stay on the correct path.
• Practise responsible trekking by not littering and preserving the natural beauty of the area. 

Picture - Unsplash 

Conclusion

Kareri Lake offers a serene escape into the heart of nature, making it a perfect destination for a peaceful weekend retreat. With its breathtaking landscapes, lush forests, and the pristine glacial lake, a trek to Kareri promises a rejuvenating experience in the lap of the Dhauladhar range. Whether you're dipping your feet in the cool waters of the lake or soaking in the panoramic views, Kareri is an adventure you'll cherish.

Now that you've got all the details for your Kareri Lake trek, it’s time to plan your stay. If you're seeking comfortable and affordable accommodation amidst nature, consider The Hosteller Kareri. Our hostel blends rustic charm with modern amenities, offering you the perfect base to start your trek and unwind after a day of exploring. Book your stay at The Hosteller Kareri and experience the tranquility of this beautiful destination.