Beas Kund Trek: A Detailed Guide
3 min readNestled in the heart of the majestic Himalayas, the Beas Kund Trek is a mesmerizing journey that combines natural beauty, adventure, and a touch of spirituality. This trek, which leads to the source of the River Beas, offers an immersive experience into the pristine wilderness of the Himachal Pradesh region. Suitable for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike, the Beas Kund Trek promises breathtaking views, serene landscapes, and a chance to walk in the footsteps of ancient sages.
Overview
- Location: Himachal Pradesh, India
- Altitude: 12,772 feet (3,892 meters)
- Duration: 3-4 days
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-May to October
Getting There
Manali serves as the base camp for the Beas Kund Trek. Manali is well-connected by road, and the nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 km away.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar, which is about 50 km from Manali. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to Manali.
- By Road: Manali is well-connected by road with major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. Regular bus services (both government and private) are available.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, but it’s not very well connected. It’s better to take a train to Chandigarh or Ambala and then travel by road to Manali.
Itinerary
Day 1: Manali to Solang Valley to Dhundi
- Distance: 20 km drive, 8 km trek
- Altitude: 9,000 feet (2,743 meters)
- Highlights: Solang Valley, lush green meadows, gushing streams
Starting from Manali, a short drive takes you to Solang Valley, famous for its adventure sports. From Solang Valley, the trek begins with a gentle ascent towards Dhundi. The trail meanders through verdant meadows and alongside the roaring Beas River, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 2: Dhundi to Bakarthach
- Distance: 5 km
- Altitude: 10,800 feet (3,292 meters)
- Highlights: Alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks
The trek from Dhundi to Bakarthach is relatively short but equally enchanting. Bakarthach, which means “shepherd’s field,” is a beautiful meadow used by local shepherds. The panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Friendship Peak and Hanuman Tibba, are spectacular.
Day 3: Bakarthach to Beas Kund and back to Bakarthach
- Distance: 6 km
- Altitude: 12,772 feet (3,892 meters)
- Highlights: Beas Kund, glacial lake, stunning vistas
This is the most exciting part of the trek as you reach Beas Kund, a glacial lake considered sacred in Hindu mythology. According to legend, Sage Vyas, the author of the Mahabharata, meditated here. The emerald green lake, set against the backdrop of towering peaks, is a sight to behold. After spending some time at Beas Kund, you trek back to Bakarthach.
Day 4: Bakarthach to Solang Valley and drive back to Manali
- Distance: 13 km trek, 20 km drive
- Highlights: Descent through meadows and forests
The return journey takes you back through the lush landscapes to Solang Valley, from where you drive back to Manali.
What to Pack
- Clothing: Layered clothing, thermal wear, trekking pants, waterproof jacket, gloves, woolen socks, hat
- Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots, comfortable socks
- Gear: Backpack, trekking poles, sleeping bag, tent (if not provided by tour operator)
- Essentials: Water bottle, energy snacks, first aid kit, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, power bank
- Documents: ID proof, permits (if required)
Tips for Trekkers
- Acclimatize: Spend at least a day in Manali to acclimatize before starting the trek.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes.
- Pace Yourself: Walk at a comfortable pace to avoid altitude sickness.
- Respect Nature: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Carry back all waste and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Travel Light: Pack only the essentials to keep your backpack light and manageable.
Conclusion
The Beas Kund Trek is a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and spiritual tranquility. Whether you are a novice trekker or an experienced hiker, this trek offers an unforgettable experience in the lap of the Himalayas. The stunning views, the serene environment, and the sense of accomplishment at reaching the sacred Beas Kund make this trek a must-do for all nature enthusiasts.
