Contents
INTRODUCTION:
Kareri Lake, also known as Kumarwah Lake, is located in the Dhauladhar range, 9 kilometres from Dharamshala. This shallow lake, located at an elevation of 2,934 metres, is a freshwater glacial lake with a picturesque setting.
The water is crystal clear, and in most places, you can see the lake bed, which is a wonderful experience in and of itself. The reflection of the sky above is another lovely feature of this lake. Kareri Lake is a beautiful outdoor activity surrounded by mountain ranges. The trail winds through numerous waterfalls and gushing streams, as well as contrasting meadows. There are also shepherd villages for added visual interest that add to the charm. As if that wasn’t enough, the local birds will serenade you along the way.
Kareri Lake is a lovely off-the-beaten-path trail that is ideal for a weekend adventure.
Trek to Kareri Lake
Beautiful bird species will surround you as you travel through lush green mountains where you can fully appreciate the subtropical pine forests. Kareri Lake is fed by glacial melt and water bodies from the Dhauladhar range’s Minkiani Peak. The stream is known as the Nyund river, and it will be your trail companion.
While there aren’t many tourists at this lake, I believe that’s part of what makes it so appealing. This location is popular among the Gujjars and Gaddis from nearby villages due to the abundant and extensive pastures near the lake. On your journey, you’ll be able to enjoy and soak in the stunning dense conifers and some unique perennial flowers.
What is the best time of year to visit Kareri?
While the lake is frozen for the majority of the year, the beauty and serenity of the lake during the winter months should not be overlooked. Kareri, on the other hand, has you covered if you’re looking for peace and quiet in the winter. From March to July (pre-monsoon season), and again from September to December (before frigid temperatures), it makes for a great weekend excursion.
The monsoon season should be avoided because mountain navigation can be difficult.
How to Get to Kareri Village
Kareri village is located approximately 27 kilometers from Dharamshala. Taxis are easily available in Dharamshala, Bir, Palampur, and other major towns in the region. It takes 1.5 hours to travel from Dharamshala to Kareri. There are several ways to get to Dharamshala.
However, I must warn you that traveling by road is almost always the most convenient option for any hill station you intend to visit. Even if some of your travel will be by road, train and air connections are available.
Air Gaggal, about 13 kilometers from Dharamshala, is the nearest airport. Flights from Delhi are operated by Spicejet and Air India. However, it may be more convenient to fly to Chandigarh Airport, which has better connectivity than this small Himalayan airport.
Dharamshala is located approximately 275 kilometers from Chandigarh. From Chandigarh to Dharamshala, you can take a taxi, a self-driving car, or a bus. The nearest railhead is Pathankot, 85 kilometers from Dharamshala. After an overnight journey, you’ll arrive here. Many trains that travel to Jammu and Kashmir stop here. From Pathankot, you can take a cab or a bus.
By Car
Dharamshala is well connected to Delhi by road, and the journey from ISBT will be 525 kilometers long. If you’re taking the bus, make it an overnight trip so you can enjoy the Himalayas for an extra day.
Itinerary – Day-by-Day Schedule
This two-day hike will take you through lush green mountains to a beautifully secluded lake with breathtaking views. With the exception of the final stretch to the lake, where the trail is not well defined, the trek is generally manageable. This trek is, in my opinion, easy-moderate in difficulty.
Rioti Village to Kareri Village on Day 1
Today’s trek will take you 5 hours to reach your overnight camp. The path is easy to follow because the local villagers have placed stones and steps to mark the way. Keep in mind, however, that the trail can be quite steep in places.
Day 2 Rioti to Kareri Lake
You should begin early in the morning. It’s going to be a long day, so try to conserve as much light as possible. In the second half of the trail, the deep forests will give way to rocky grasslands along the Nylund river (nallah?) that will serve as your guide for the remainder of the route.
Because the lake is so close to the snow line, your final push will be difficult.
