Kareri Lake Trek

Kareri Lake Trek

Himachal Pradesh
Easy to ModerateDifficulty
2–3 DaysDuration
2950 mMax Altitude
26 kmLength
Kareri VillageStarting Point

Kareri Lake Trek: A Serene Alpine Escape

The Kareri Lake Trek is a short yet rewarding Himalayan journey located near Dharamshala. Nestled at an altitude of 9,678 ft, the lake is fed by the melting snow of the Dhauladhar range and remains crystal clear throughout the year. Surrounded by pine forests, quaint Himachali villages, and stunning mountain vistas, this trek is perfect for beginners as well as nature enthusiasts looking for a weekend getaway in the mountains.

Why Kareri Lake?

Kareri Lake is a glacial lake with clear, shallow waters that reflect the mighty Dhauladhar peaks. The trek offers a mix of scenic trails through pine and oak forests, charming shepherd hamlets, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It is an ideal trek for those seeking a short-duration adventure with cultural immersion.

Highlights of the Trek

- Beautiful alpine lake at 9,678 ft
- Trails through dense pine forests and streams
- Traditional Himachali villages and Gaddi shepherd huts
- Clear views of the Dhauladhar range

Cultural Insights

The trail is dotted with traditional Himachali houses and shepherd settlements. At the lake, a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva adds a spiritual aura to the serene environment.

Itinerary

Day 1: Dharamshala to Kareri Village (drive) and trek to Kareri Lake Base Camp | Distance: 5 km trek | Duration: 3-4 hours | Altitude: 7,200 ft
  • Drive from Dharamshala to Kareri Village.
  • Short trek through forests and streams.
  • Overnight stay at base camp near Kareri Village.
Day 2: Base Camp to Kareri Lake | Distance: 10 km | Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude: 9,678 ft
  • Gradual ascent through pine and oak forests.
  • Cross wooden bridges and streams.
  • Reach Kareri Lake, explore the area, and camp overnight.
Day 3: Kareri Lake to Kareri Village, drive to Dharamshala | Distance: 10 km trek + drive | Duration: 5-6 hours trek | Altitude: 7,200 ft
  • Descend back to Kareri Village.
  • Drive back to Dharamshala.
  • End of trek.
Main trek location
Starting point

Best Month to Visit

Nearest airportKangra Airport
Nearest railwayPathankot Railway Station

Weather Forecast

Tuesday 2 Dec
Start point11° / 18°
Cloudy
18°
07:09
17:20
64%
Summit3° / 8°
Cloudy
8°
07:08
17:19
68%
Hourly temperature (start vs summit)°C

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FAQs

Is Kareri Lake Trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is ideal for beginners due to its short duration and moderate trails.

What is the altitude of Kareri Lake?

The lake is situated at 9,678 ft (2,950 meters).

When is the best time to do the trek?

May-June and September-October are the best months with pleasant weather and clear views.

Can we camp at Kareri Lake?

Yes, camping is allowed near the lake and is one of the trek’s highlights.

Do we need a guide for this trek?

A guide is not mandatory but highly recommended for navigation and local knowledge.

How cold does it get at night?

Temperatures can drop close to 0°C at night, so warm layers are necessary.

What peaks are visible from Kareri Lake?

You can see Minkiani Pass, Baleni Pass, and parts of the Dhauladhar range.

Is Kareri Lake frozen in winter?

Yes, during December to March, the lake remains frozen and the trail is covered in snow.

Are permits required?

No special permits are required, but registering with local authorities is advisable.

How to reach the starting point?

Kareri Village is accessible via road from Dharamshala, which has good bus and taxi connectivity.

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Essential Trekking Guidelines to Follow

Obtain Required Permits

Many trekking destinations require official permits from local authorities. Apply early to avoid fines or being denied entry.

Respect Nature and Wildlife

Follow Leave No Trace. No littering or off-trail wandering. Keep noise low and avoid disturbing animals.

Travel with a Guide when Required

Certain high-altitude or border zones mandate certified guides for safety and regulations. Check rules before planning.

Camp Only at Designated Sites

Unauthorized camping or bonfires can damage ecosystems and violate laws. Use approved campsites for safety.

Respect Local Culture

Seek permission before photographing villagers or holy places. Dress modestly and engage respectfully with locals.

Follow Weather and Safety Advisories

If authorities halt a trek due to weather or hazards, comply without argument. These alerts protect lives.

Stay Within Allowed Zones

Border-close trails often have restricted limits. Do not cross protected boundaries without permissions.

Stick to Group Instructions

When trekking with a group, follow the leader’s pace and timing. Avoid moving alone or straying off track.