Kareri Lake Trek
Kareri Lake Trek
₹ 6000 + 5% gst
Per person
2 Days and 1 Night
FACILITIES
Accommodation
Transportation included
Safety gears
100% Safety
assured
Certified Guide
Trekking gear
Overview
Where mountain stream lead you to a lake that reflects the sky and the bliss of the Himalayas!
Hidden deep within the Dhauladhar range, the Kareri Lake Trek unfolds like a dream for every mountain lover. Just a few hours from Dharamshala, this trek offers an unforgettable journey through lush pine forests, charming mountain villages, and crystal-clear streams — leading to one of the most stunning high-altitude lakes in Himachal Pradesh.
Perched at an altitude of 2,950 meters, Kareri Lake is a glacial lake fed by the melting snow from the Minkiani Pass 4,250 m / 13,940 ft, and its waters are so clear they reflect the snow-covered peaks that tower above it. As you climb from Kareri village, each step rewards you with breathtaking scenery — wooden bridges swaying over gurgling rivers, meadows alive with wildflowers, and glimpses of distant Himalayan ridgelines.
This 9 km trek may be short in distance, but it’s rich in experience. Every turn on the trail offers something new — a shepherd’s call echoing in the valley, the scent of deodar trees, and the warmth of local Gaddi hospitality. The final approach to the lake feels almost magical as the terrain opens into a wide alpine basin, and Kareri Lake reveals itself in all its pristine glory.
Camping beside the lake is an experience that lingers long after the trek ends. As dusk falls, the lake mirrors a thousand stars, and the surrounding silence feels sacred. The morning light over the Dhauladhar peaks paints a masterpiece of gold and silver hues — a moment every trekker cherishes deeply.
For those seeking a little extra adventure, a short hike beyond the lake takes you toward the Minkiani Glacier and Pass, offering sweeping views and a true taste of Himalayan wilderness.
The Kareri Lake Trek is ideal for beginners, families, and nature enthusiasts — a journey that proves you don’t need to scale extreme altitudes to find peace, beauty, and connection in the mountains.
Region | Dharmashala (HP) |
|---|---|
Altitude | 2,950 m / 9,678 ft |
Duration | 2 Nights & 3 days |
Difficulty | Moderate |
Best Season | All season trek |
Start/End Point | Dharmashala |
Trek type | Same route trail |
⭐ Important Note:
For trekkers starting late from Dharamshala or wishing to take a more relaxed approach, an overnight halt can be made at Riyoti (2,450 m / 8,038 ft) — a serene campsite nestled midway along the trail. The soothing sound of the stream and the surrounding pine-scented air make it a perfect stop before continuing the journey to Kareri Lake the following morning.
Itinerary
DAY 01: DHARAMSHALA – KARERI VILLAGE – KARERI LAKE
Drive: 30 km | Duration: 2 hours
Trek: 9 km | Duration: 6–7 hours
Altitude Gain: 2,000 m (Kareri Village) → 2,950 m (Kareri Lake)
Begin your Kareri Lake Trek from Dharamshala, a well-known town in Himachal Pradesh and the gateway to the Dhauladhar Range. Our trek support team meets you early morning for a short briefing before you start your 2-hour drive (30 km) toward Kareri Village, the base point of the trek. The route passes through scenic mountain roads, crossing the charming Ghera Village, before climbing to Kareri on the newly developed road that offers stunning views of the valley.
At 2,000 meters, Kareri Village introduces you to the peaceful rhythm of mountain life — wooden houses, terraced fields, and the distant murmur of the Nyund Stream, which originates from Kareri Lake itself. From here, your trek begins along the same stream that will guide you to the lake.
The first stretch of the Kareri Lake trail is a moderately steep climb for 5 km, weaving through rocky paths and open meadows sprinkled with Himalayan wildflowers. The forest sections are sparse but scenic, offering occasional shade and photo-worthy views of the valley below.
After about 3–4 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Riyoti (2,450 m) — a serene halfway point beside the flowing stream. Here, you can find a few seasonal tea shops and rest areas that make it an ideal lunch spot. The sound of the stream and the cool breeze make this a refreshing break before resuming the climb.
From Riyoti, the ascent becomes more gradual. The valley widens, revealing expansive views of the Dhauladhar Mountains — rugged, snow-dusted, and breathtakingly beautiful. As you approach the top, the landscape opens into an alpine meadow where the pristine Kareri Lake (2,950 m) sits quietly under the sky.
At the lake’s edge stands a small Lord Shiva temple, a local spiritual site believed to protect the surrounding region. Cross the lake from the left side to reach your campsite, set on a flat meadow offering magnificent reflections of the peaks and stars in the clear night sky.
Spend your evening relaxing by the lake, watching the sunlight fade behind the Dhauladhar ridge — a peaceful end to your first day in the Himalayas.
DAY 02: REST DAY AT KARERI LAKE
Wake up to the gentle sound of mountain winds brushing across Kareri Lake (2,950 m) — its surface mirroring the snowy crests of the Dhauladhar Range. This day is meant for leisure, exploration, and connection — with nature and yourself.
After a nourishing breakfast, begin your morning with a short walk to the ancient Lord Shiva Temple, located beside the lake. The sight of prayer flags fluttering against a backdrop of glaciers and pine slopes brings a deep sense of serenity.
Adventurers can choose to hike towards Minkiani Pass (4,250 m), a demanding glacier route that calls for sheer dedication, endurance, and technique. The trail follows the glacier path — steep, raw, and stunning — rewarding you with panoramic views of Kangra Valley and the mighty Dhauladhar peaks.
If you prefer a slower pace, spend the day wandering through alpine pastures, watching Gaddi shepherds with their flocks, or simply resting by the lakeside, soaking in the mountain stillness.
Casting a golden alpenglow that reflects across the still waters of Kareri Lake — an experience unlike any other Himalayan lake. This breathtaking moment alone makes the Kareri Lake Trek truly unforgettable.
As dusk settles, stargazing by the calm waters turns the night into magic — the lake reflecting a thousand twinkles from the sky above. Few places connect you so deeply to the mountains as Kareri Lake does.
DAY 03: KARERI LAKE – KARERI VILLAGE – DHARAMSHALA
Wake up beside the serene Kareri Lake (2,950 m / 9,678 ft), one of the most beautiful high-altitude glacial lakes in Himachal Pradesh. As the first rays of sunlight touch the snow-clad Dhauladhar peaks, the lake reflects their golden glow — a scene that defines the very essence of the Kareri Lake Trek. Enjoy a warm mountain breakfast and prepare for your descent towards Kareri village.
The 9 km trek back to Kareri village takes around five hours, following the same scenic route beside the Nyund stream, which originates from the lake. The trail gently descends through rhododendron forests, pine groves, and open meadows, offering ever-changing Himalayan vistas. Every turn reveals a new angle of the Dhauladhar range — raw, powerful, and unforgettable.
Reaching Kareri village (2,000 m), you’re greeted by the simple charm of Himachali mountain life — traditional wooden homes, terraced farmlands, and the warm smiles of Gaddi shepherds who have lived here for generations. The village offers a perfect closing frame to your trek — tranquil, authentic, and deeply connected to the mountains.
From here, a two-hour drive (30 km) brings you back to Dharamshala, marking the end of your 3-day Kareri Lake Trek. Before you leave, glance once more at the majestic Moon Peak (4,750 m) towering above the valley — its snow-draped slopes shining in the distance. It’s a powerful reminder that the Dhauladhar range holds many more adventures waiting to be explored.
✅ Inclusions
🚐 Transport with care: Comfortable transportation from Dharamshala to Kareri Village and back after the trek.
⛺ Eco-friendly camping: High-quality tents, sleeping bags, and safety equipment — all maintained to ensure comfort, cleanliness, and minimal environmental impact.
🧭 Experienced mountain team: A qualified trek leader and trained local support staff accompany you, ensuring safety, guidance, and authentic local insights.
🥗 Nutritious mountain meals: Freshly cooked vegetarian food prepared by our team, using local ingredients wherever possible to support mountain communities.
🪪 All required permits: Includes forest entry and camping permissions, managed responsibly by our operations team.
❌ Exclusions
🎒 Personal porter/mule services for carrying individual backpacks.
🍳 Meals before the trek — breakfast at Dharamshala or Kareri Village on Day 1 is not included.
🏪 Snacks or refreshments purchased at local shops during the trek.
🏠 Accommodation at Dharamshala before or after the trek.