Beas Kund Trek, Manali | Route, Itinerary, Best Time

Ways to Experience this attraction

Beas Kund Trek, Manali Overview

Other than being famous a tourist destination, Manali is also the way to one of the most undertaken treks - the Beas Kund Trek. This trek is a perfect weekend getaway plan which takes you away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. Get a chance to feast your eyes on the outstanding views of Pir Pinjal mountain ranges over the Beas river, let your soul get wooed by the spectacular meadows of Dhundi and Bakarthach and finally, the glacial lake at Beas Kund which is worth all the hiking.

About the Trek

The first leg of the trek is reached by driving from Manali up to the Dhundi road link via the Solang valley, which is famous for providing some of the finest slopes for skiing and it is indeed the starting point for a number of treks in Himachal Pradesh. You have to descend down the Solang valley by following the river Beas up to 8 kilometres by walking on either sides of the stream, after which you will reach Dhundi. The entire landscape on the little mountain is covered by wild flowers complemented by the peaceful silence. You have to set camp and spend the night at Dhundi.

The next day, a 6 kilometre will take you through the area full of boulders and small rocks deposited by a glacier. Further ahead, you will reach the campsite at Bakarthach which is a high-altitude meadow and known for its enchanting beauty. The cool breeze will ease your tiredness away and you can see flocks of sheep grazing in the green fields. Put up your tents and spend the night in this haven of calmness.

The third day begins a bit early and this includes climbing up a small ridge through Bhoj Patr which will take you all the way up to Beas Kund. You will see ranges of birch trees on your way as they dominate the area. The glacier at Beas Kund is a source to a major river flowing northern India and it has a mythological significance as it is believed that Sage Vyas, the author of Mahabharata, used this place as his meditation grounds. After spending the day in undertaking the complete excursion, you will return to Bakarthach in the evening.

Finally, on the last day, you will follow the same trek leading back to Solang after finishing breakfast. From there, you will be escorted back to Manali which marks the end of the trek.

So if you ever want to take a break from your otherwise monotonous life, the Beas Kund trek is what you need right. Mark your calendar, pack your bag and set off on the trek to Beas Kund and let your soul rejuvenate.

Camping/Shelter

Camps can be set up in campsites like Dhundi & Bakarthach in the mesmerising evenings of the valley and pile up a bon fire in the night around Friends, Family or your significant other. Sing with the woods and cherish every moment.

Water Availability

Carry your own water during the trek. However, you might have the opportunity to refill your water stock.

General tips and tricks

1. Make sure you carry warm clothes irrespective of the fact that what season you are travelling in.
2. Carry your own trekking gear and equipments and be always prepared.
3. You will be provided with a first aid kit, sleeping bags, mattresses and other necessary safety equipments
4. A good pair of trekking shoes is a must.
5. Carry raingear no matter if you are travelling during monsoon season.
6. Make sure you obtain all the permits well in advance required for trekking in the region.
7. Make sure you carry spare batteries and film roll for camera as there will be no electricity supply.
8. A team of English speaking guides, porters, cooks and helpers go along with you.

Best Time To Visit Beas Kund Trek

Mid-May till Mid-October

How to reach Beas Kund Trek

Rail: Chandigarh is the nearest railway station to Manali located about 310 km away. You can either take bus from there or a cab to reach your destination.
Road: If you are planning a road trip till Manali, then you can easily book a ride at a bus from Delhi ISBT. You can also take a cab till your final destination which is almost 570 km from Delhi.

More about Beas Kund Trek

Base Camp: Manali

Difficulty: Moderate Gradient

Highest point of trek: 12,100 feet

Nearest Railhead: 310 km

Region: Kullu Region

Starting point of trek: Manali

Itinerary for Beas Kund Trek

Day 1: Manali, drive to Solang and then to Dhundi, trek to Bakerthach

Distance: 12 km drive, 11 km trek, Duration: 8-9 hours

Once you have reached Manali, drive to the base camp Solang, which is 12 kms away. The way offers some fabulous sights of snow clad mountains epitomizing the nature's beauty in the area. It's time to get on your foot from Solang. Walk along the banks of River Beas for 8 kms on a level ground while passing through the thick cover of oak, fir and walnuts which ultimately leads to Dhundhi. While on the way, you will also encounter the glimpse of Deo Tibba and Indrasan Peak. As you are crossing Dhundhi you also get a chance to witness the mighty Hanuman Tibba (5990 m). Soon you will cross a small bridge to arrive at the campsite, Bakerthach. Rest for the day and cherish the beauty all around you.

Day 2: Bakerthach to Beas Kund and back to Bakerthach

Distance: 6 km, Duration: 6-7 hours

The second of the trek begins with the climb towards Beas Kund, the trail passing through boulders and rocks fro few minutes. Soon you will be near your destination of a tiny lake, Beas Kund considered to be the source of River Beas. However, the perfect view of the majestic summit all around such as Shitidhar, Ladakhi, Friendship peaks will leave spell bound. The peaks standing high at an altitude of 6000 m are Makerbeh and Shikhar Beh. Located just behind the great barrier of mountains to the north of Beas Kund is Lahaul Valley region while on the west is Kanga and the Dhauladhar Range, the lower region of Himalayas. Enjoy the picture perfect view however; make sure to make an early departure in order to reach Bakerthach in time to get enough rest and a good night sleep.

Day 3: Bakerthach to Solang to Manali

This is the last of the trek when you will begin the trek with a gradual descent back to Dhundhi and then to Solang, tracing back the same way you came from. As you reach the valley, spend some few hours to explore the thrilling activities at Solang. It's time to drive back to Manali. However, if you are not tires and still up for some trekking you can walk along the trail passing through Burua and then to Nehru Kund. While on the way you get a chance to explore the local lifestyle of the region. Make a pit stop at Vashisht hot springs and drive back to Manali from here after some rest.