Bali Pass Trek

A Trek with Expedition Vibes

A thrilling mountain pass with Ruinsara Lake, waterfalls and a unique summit!

Duration
9 Days
Trek Altitude
16,076 Feet
Destination
Uttarakhand
Trek Distance
66 KM
Group Size
12
Best Time
Summer, Autumn

Bali Pass Trek Overview:

Bali Pass is a mountain pass that peaks slightly short of the 5000-meter mark and connects the Har Ki Dun - Ruinsara Valley to Yamunotri and vice-versa. The Bali Pass trek runs through numerous heritage Villages of Har Ki Dun Valley such as Osla, Gangaad, and Taluka, and ascends deep into the Govind National Park. On the route, we come across the beautiful Ruinsara Lake. Multiple Waterfalls lie on the way to the pass.

The Bali Pass trek distance is 66 KM from Taluka to Janki Chatti. The trek is on the difficult end as the Bali Pass trek altitude is more than 16000 feet and has long walking days, with steep ascents and descents. If one plans to attempt the Bali Pass trek solo, it is highly advised to trek along a route guide as it is easy to misjudge the trail while descending or ascending the pass, with steep sections that can cause mishaps.

Bali Pass Base Camp



Highlights of the Bali Pass Trek:

Exploration of the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park-

Flora: Deodar cedar, Chir pine, Oak, and conifers like Spruce, Blue pine, and Silver fir.

Fauna: Himalayan snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, Brown bear, Monal pheasant, Bearded vulture, Golden eagle, Western tragopan, Steppe eagle, and Black eagle.

High altitude and challenging terrain-

This trek is situated at an impressive altitude of 16,240 feet (4,950 meters). In the initial days of trekking to the Bali Pass, terrains are not very steep until the Ruinsara Lake, but you will cover a considerable distance of approximately 10-12 kilometers on an average day. Subsequently, the altitude will increase until the base camp, with an ascent of around 3,000 feet in a single day, followed by an additional 1,000 feet the next day.

Descending from Bali Pass to Yamunotri is steep, and the altitude decreases by approximately 8,000 feet in just two days.

Villages Exploration-

Explore the villages of both the Har Ki Dun valley (Datmir, Gangad, Puani, and Osla) and the Yamunotri Valley (Kharsali, Hanumanchatti, and Jankichatti). Witness diverse architectures and delve into the local culture and farming practices of both valleys.

Thanga & Devsu Thatch/Meadow-

Thanga Bugyal, located 1 km from Ruinsar Lake, is an alpine meadow. It offers a beautiful view of Kyarkoti Bugyal along with a scenic 2 km ridge walk adorned with white rhododendron flowers.

Devsu Thatch, at an elevation of 10,032 feet, is a sprawling meadow above the Supin River along the route from Puani Garat to the Waterfall on day 3, surrounded by dense forests. Graced with beautifully landscaped grassy mounds and an array of flowers, including orchids, poppies, anemones, primulas, daisies, and marigold, it offers a mesmerizing experience. Barefoot strolls on soft grass become a sensory dance with nature, inspiring a day of camping to savor beauty.

Camping at the pristine lake Ruinsara-

Ruinsara Lake, standing at 11,483 feet (3,500 meters), is a pivotal stop on the Bali Pass route, revealing Govind National Park's beauty with vibrant wildflowers, especially orchids. The trail meanders along the Tons River through charming villages like Gangad, Seema, and Osla. A day at Ruinsara Lake allows exploration near Banderpoonch glacier and the Black Peak base camp.

Kyarkoti Glacier-

Approximately 8 km from Ruinsara Bugyal, this is the base camp for the Kalanag, Swargarohini, and Dumdar Kandi Pass expedition. Situated at an elevation of 12,795 feet (3,900 meters) above sea level, it serves as the starting point for the Tons River, originating from the Kyarkoti Glacier.

Waterfalls on the trek-

In the 66 km Bali Pass trek, you come across numerous waterfalls, amplifying the trek's allure. Notably, the third day's journey through Seema and Swarn Dhara features some beautiful waterfalls, genuinely elevating the enchantment of the entire trek.

Yamunotri Dham-

Coming down from Lower Dhamini to Yamunotri, you'll find the sacred Yamunotri temple, one of Uttarakhand's Chota Char Dham. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, it's a special place for both pilgrims and trekkers. The peaceful surroundings provide a calm retreat, with the air filled with respect and tranquility for everyone who comes here.

Saprishi kund-

Towards the end of the Bali Pass trek, the majestic Bandarpunch Glacier and Saptrishi Kund come into view, representing the authentic source of the Yamuna River.

Situated at an elevation of 4,421 meters, Saptrishi Kund is a high-altitude lake and the primary origin of the Yamuna. Formed by the imposing Bandarpunch Mountain, this lake is embraced by rocky glaciers, contributing to the grandeur of the landscape.

How to Plan Bali Pass trek?

The pass is more approachable from the  Har Ki Dun Valley as the gradient is less steep and gives good time for the trekkers to acclimatize to the altitude. Although a few trekkers start the trek from Yamunotri too, which is not generally recommended. This is because the altitude gain from Yamunotri is very quick and the steep trail can quickly tire trekkers. It can even lead to acute mountain sickness as there is barely any acclimatization to the high altitude.

The route from Sankri has multiple campsites on the route and the itinerary can be easily changed for the convenience of trekkers. Generally, the pass is attempted from Thanga, situated at 4100 meters. However, we can push to camp further at the base camp at a whopping 4,600 meters of altitude. This reduces the strain for the pass crossing day and further gives a unique experience of camping at a very high altitude. The Swargarohini has astounding views from the Bali Pass basecamp.

How to Reach the Bali Pass Trek

Reaching the Basecamp of Bali Pass Trek- Sankri Sankri is the Basecamp of Bali Pass Trek. Located in Uttarakhand, India, Sankri is the starting point for lots of treks like Har ki Dun, Ruinsara, Fachu Kandi Pass, Borasu Pass, Phulara Ridge, etc. To reach Sankri from Dehradun, you can use regular buses, shared jeeps, or taxis that are shared with others, these transport services are available from near Dehradun Railway Station.

How to Reach Dehradun from Delhi–

By Road:- Overnight UKRTC buses and Volvos, ranging from Rs 600 to Rs 900, operate from ISBT Delhi to ISBT Dehradun

By Train:- It’s recommended to opt for the overnight Kota Express, also known as Nanda Devi/Kota Express, departing at 11:50 PM, and arriving in Dehradun at 5:45 AM, aligning with our morning pickup schedule.

By Air:- IndiGo and Vistara , are some regular flights from Indira Gandhi Airport, Delhi to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. The schedules for these flights can be easily checked online.

The Dehradun railway station, a hub for private and shared cabs heading to Sankri, is situated 30 km from the airport. Private taxis are easily accessible within the airport premises, with booking charges of Rs 1200 – 1500 for a Dzire or similar and Rs 1800 – 2200 for an Innova or similar vehicles.

How to Reach Sankri from Dehradun:-

Every morning, a limited number of shared cabs and buses depart for Sankri from the vicinity of Dehradun Railway Station.

Govt. Buses and Private Buses- Only one government bus departs from Dehradun Railway Station to Sankri at 8:00 am. Additionally, two private buses leave around 7:00 am from just outside the Dehradun Railway Station heading to Sankri town. The fare for this journey is approximately Rs. 400-500 per person, which is roughly the same for both the government and private buses.

Private Cab or Taxies- You can easily locate shared taxis near Hotel Milan or Hotel Grand, merely a 2-3 minute walk from Dehradun Railway Station. These taxis operate up to Purola, which is 54 kilometers away from Sankri. The journey lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, with a fare of Rs. 400-500. Take shared cabs from Purola to Sankri in the morning before noon. Fare is 200-300 rupees per passenger when the cab is full. Plan your arrival in Purola accordingly.

If you miss Dehradun buses or taxis, opt for a private taxi near Prince Chowk, around 100 meters from the Railway Station. Expect to pay Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 7,000 for a Maxx or Bolero booking.

Getting back from Janki Chatti (Yamunotri)  to Delhi

The trek concludes at Janki Chatti, and then you'll travel by car/bus to Dehradun, which takes about 8-9 hours. There's a single government bus departing from Jankichatti to Dehradun at 6:00 am. In case you miss the bus, you can choose a local taxi to Barkot. From Barkot, another taxi or the government bus departing at 11:00 am can take you to Dehradun, with a fare of approximately Rs. 300-350 per person.

For a more comfortable journey, you can book a separate cab for travel for Rs. 5000-6000 per cab. This will take you from Janki Chatti to Dehradun, and you'll reach Dehradun around 8:00 pm.

If your next destination is Delhi, you can return by either the Mussoorie Express (departing at 9:20 pm) or the Nanda Devi Express (departing at 11:30 pm) from Dehradun.

The best time to Visit Bali Pass Trek

The best times for the Bali Pass trek are during the pre and post-monsoon seasons, offering two distinct opportunities – one in summer and the other in autumn. Summer begins around mid-May, depending on the snowfall from the previous winter, and lasts until the end of June, coinciding with the onset of the monsoon.

Subsequently, the enchanting period of autumn starts in September, extending its allure until the latter half of October. These specific time frames not only ensure favorable weather conditions but also provide trekkers with a splendid canvas of nature, adorned with vibrant hues and diverse landscapes.

Bali Pass Trek in May and June-

Flora: In summer, the forests and meadows transform into vibrant shades of green, adorned with blossoming flowers, creating a picturesque and refreshing landscape.

Snow condition- As summer progresses, the accumulated snow and glaciers melt, revealing a vast expanse of icy snow.

Weather & Temperature- The daytime warms up to 10°C to 20°C in Bali Pass, especially in sunny conditions. At night or early morning, the base temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C.

Bali Pass Trek in September and October (Autumn)

Flora- In September and October, the scenery changes with colorful autumn leaves. Trees and grasses paint the surroundings in yellow, orange, and brown, offering a delightful sight.

Snow- In September, there is less snow, and by October, the likelihood of fresh snowfall increases.

Weather & Temperature- As you advance toward the Ruinsara Lake campsite and beyond, the weather significantly becomes colder. Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C in September and during nights or early mornings, temperatures range from 2°C to 8°C. In October, temperatures decrease noticeably, ranging from 5°C to 10°C. Be prepared for temperatures in the higher camps to drop below 0°C at night.

What makes the Bali Pass Trek a fantastic option?

Up Close with Kalanag and Swargarohini Peaks

Bali Pass trek has a lot to offer apart from its virgin trails and a challenging pass climb. We are surrounded either by the mighty Swargarohini or Bandarpunch ranges at almost all times.

We get to see Kalanag (Black Peak) & Swargarohini Peak up close. At 6,387 meters, the Kalanag peak is the highest in this region. This peak was first summited by Jack Gibson in 1955 and the students of Doon School. We spent a day beside Ruinsara Lake. The walk across the two meadows of Devsu Thatch and Thanga is breathtaking. One of our camps will be beside a waterfall and another one lies above 4,000 m.

Wild Encounters and Summit-like Adventures

Wild animals such as Himalayan Ibex and Blue Sheep, Black Bears, and Brown bears can be spotted occasionally on this trail! Our teams sighted the Black bear on this trail ahead of Seema and near the waterfall camp, while the Brown bear was spotted near Thanga Campsite, and during an exploration towards Dhumdhar Kandi pass during the rest day at Ruinsara Lake. While the trail to Bali passes turns southward towards Yamunotri ahead of Ruinsara Lake, the eastward route continues to the challenging Dhumdhar Kandi. It's a daunting pass sharing its base camp with Black Peak and goes to Harsil.

The Bali Pass unlike a conventional pass, which means a saddle-like opening between neighboring rising ridges, rises like a peak and gives a summit-like adventure when you reach the top. The same can be visually seen in the summit stretch picture of the Bali pass below.

Towards the end of the Bali Pass trek, we see the Bandarpunch Glacier & Saptrishi Kund. They are the true source of the river Yamuna. We also get an opportunity to visit the holy temple of Yamunotri. All in all, Bali Pass is a wholesome adventure that provides trekkers with every element of a Himalayan trek. Bali Pass Height

The top of Bali Pass is more summit-like than a Mountain Pass



How difficult is the Bali Pass trek?

Bali pass trek difficulty is based on the following factors - the Bali pass trek height is an altitude of 16,240 feet or 4,950 meters. The trek has a distance of 66 km, starting from Taluka to the endpoint at Janki Chatti. It takes 6 to 7 days to complete the trek on foot. Thus we will walk around 10 KM on average every day.

The altitude of Taluka, where the trek starts, is 6,825 feet (2080 meters). We thus have a net altitude gain of 9,250 feet (2,820 meters) over a duration of 5 days, thus climbing an average of 550 meters a day or 1800 feet. That is a considerable altitude gain. The distance, altitude gain, and finally the technical pass crossing make Bali Pass fall in the category of a Moderate-Difficult trek.

It requires physical preparation and regular exercises that must be started at least 1 month prior to trekking to the Bali Pass.
Content Credit: Abhishek Sohu

Bali Pass Trek Route Map:-

The Bali Pass Trek Map guides you through the beautiful path in the Garhwal Himalayas. It takes you past the charming Devsu Bugyal and Ruinsara Lake to reach the stunning Bali Pass at an impressive altitude of 16,200 ft. Following the scenic route along the Supin River, the map points out the awe-inspiring sights of snow-capped peaks and lush meadows. It promises an exciting adventure for both trekkers and nature lovers

bali_pass_trek_route_map_himalaya_shelter
Credits: Shivam Chand

A Glimpse of the Bali Pass Trek:-


Bali Pass Trek Itinerary

Our journey begins from Dehradun, making it a good option for people looking for treks near Delhi. Driving alongside the Tons river, and passing villages in Uttarakhand like Damta, Purola, Mori, and Netwar, we will reach the base camp Sankri. There is no network in this village, letting us take in the sight of the sun gloriously setting over the surrounding Greater Himalayan peaks without any distractions. We will be accommodated in hotels or homestays here.

After a hearty breakfast, we will be transported to Taluka by car. The motorable road in Govind Pashu National Park ends here. The trek commences on a stony path alongside the gushing river Supin. We also see plantations of the red-coloured Himalayan crop amaranth, locally known as cholai. Under the shade of walnut, pine, deodar and maple trees, the walk is as pleasant as the villagers greeting us on the way.

A few hours and crossing over a few streams later, we see the village of Gangad across the river on the left. We continue our hike and after about an hour, the quaint village of Osla unfolds itself. Osla is a household name among trekkers. Home to about 200 families, it gives us a peek into Garwahli culture. Seema is a tiny settlement opposite to Osla on the other side of the river. We set camp here or stay in a hut with a local family in the village.

Leaving the last of human settlements behind, we continue along the true left of the valley along the river Supin. Supin merges with Rupin near Netwar village to form Tons, which is the biggest tributary of river Yamuna.
An ascend through deodar trees leads us to a beautiful meadow – Devsu Thatch. This 1km expanse of green land is set against the looming Swargarohini ranges. We can also see Kalanag (Black Peak) (6387m) straight ahead. On our left, we can see Har Ki Dun Valley. At its bottom lies the confluence of Har Ki Dun and Ruinsara rivers.
After descending from the meadow, we enter the Ruinsara valley. At the end of today’s trek, we camp beside the stream close to the waterfall locally known as Roiltigad or Roiltia.

Today’s journey is going to take in under 2 hours even at a slow pace. And within this hike itself we notice a stark change in vegetation. Pine and fir trees give way to birch and rhododendron trees. The thick forest we trudge through is frequented by the endangered Himalayan brown bear. If we are very lucky, we might spot this rare and elusive creature.
We then reach one of the highlights of the trek — Ruinsara Tal, an alpine tarn, surrounded by lush Rhododendron trees, with their distinct pink bloom in the summers. We will be left enchanted by this sacred lake in the Uttarakhand Himalayas. It is one of the trio of lakes in the Garhwal region, the other two lakes being Marinda and Maldaru. We will be camping overnight near the lake.

Lying at an elevation of about 3500 m, Ruinsara lake is a good place to acclimatize ourselves before reaching Bali Pass base camp the next day.
Ruinsara Tal’s reputation precedes itself for its beauty. The small and pristine lake lies within a vast meadow, alpine vegetation and surrounding rhododendron bushes. There is innumerable variety of alpine flowers growing around the lake. The river Supin is situated 100 meters below the lake, next to a ridge.
It is the perfect place to play games with our trek mates, read a good book or just sit quietly to soak in nature’s tranquillity.
We can also spend the day exploring nearby places. One can trek towards the Banderpunch glacier or Kyarkoti which is the base camp for Kalanag and Dumdar Kandi pass.
We return to the camp in the evening.

We start the day early so as to reach our destination before afternoon. We descend down to the shallow river bed, cross over to the opposite bank and walk uphill to another beautiful meadow – Thanga. This meadow also offers awe-inspiring views of the seemingly omnipresent Swargarohini ranges. Kyarkoti valley lies towards the left.
We soon reach Odari. The word ‘Odari’ means a naturally made cave rock. This place has a mythological story associated with it. It is believed that Bali, Hanuman’s brother, had stayed here for one night. Here too we might find evidence of the rare Himalayan brown bear. We camp below Bali Pass along a glacial moraine. This is the one of the best locations for a camp, with the valley below and the Pass behind us. The temperatures at night tend to go to sub-zero degrees. Camping at this altitude is a unique experience which very few treks offer.

This day of crossing Bali Pass too begins very early. We strive to reach the summit by 8am. The trail heads down south, over a ridge. It is a fairly short but steep climb up to the Pass. A lot of glacial scree will be encountered here. Time taken to reach the top ranges from 45 minutes to one and a half hours.
Once we reach the top, we behold the Yamunotri valley for the first time. The view is breath- taking. We see hints of the Saptrishi Kund, which is the origin of river Yamuna. We also get to witness the Banderpunch peaks from the top of the Pass. The summits of Dayara Bugyal, Barua Top and Dokrani Bamak are visible too. We then descend carefully via a connecting ridge and reach the camping grounds of upper Dhamni.

 

We descend further to a forested trail. This path leads us to the famous shrine of Yamunotri with the glorious Bandarpunch in its background. One of the temples in the Char Dham circuit, it is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. After paying obeisance to her black marble idol, we make our way down the conventional pilgrim road to Janki Chatti. We stay overnight in one of the guesthouses here. We will get electricity but no phone network.

This is the final day of the trip and we drive back to Dehradun. We can make the most of this jourey by visiting other well-known places that fall on this route such as Kempty waterfalls, Nainbagh and Mussourie.
With equally beautiful memories of an offbeat trek and touristy sight-seeing, we have a cherishable experience.

Upcoming Treks

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Bali Pass Trek FAQ's

The Bali Pass is a quite tough trek, as it takes you up to a very high point at 5,227 meters (16,240 feet).

Getting to the Bali Pass base camp from Odari is especially hard, especially from April to June when there’s a lot of snow. The last part is super steep and needs both strength and experience. Coming down also has some tricky parts at the beginning that you need to be careful with. After Upper Damini, the path is well-marked and takes you to Yamunotri.

  • In May and June, summer brings nice weather with warm, sunny days on the trail. There’s plenty of sunlight, and you’ll find shaded spots for resting. Evenings might feel a bit cool, so having an extra warm layer of clothing is a good plan. Sometimes, it might rain a little in the afternoon, so be ready for that. Once you go past Odari, remember that because you’re up high, it could snow if the weather gets bad.
  • The first three weeks of September bring a really amazing sight in the Himalayas. This short time, with not much rain or snow, shows a world of lively beauty and untouched nature.
    The meadows explode with lots of colors as wildflowers, excited by the rain, bloom in a spectacular way. Tall grasses sway gently, adding to the vibrant scene. The melting snow uncovers a path of rocks and sand, showing the way to the Bali Pass.
    As September ends and October brings a chill, the first snowflakes start to fall gently. This tells us that the pass will close soon. This quick change from warm summer to cool winter shows how nature always changes in beautiful ways

  • As you trek along, you’ll see really tall mountains like Black Peak (6,387 m), the big Swargarohini Massif, and the strong Bandarpunch Massif.
  • You’ll be able to see towering peaks like Black Peak (6,387 m), the majestic Swargarohini Massif, and the imposing Bandarpunch Massif along the trek. In the heavily wooded areas between Osla and Ruinsara Lake, you may come across Black Bears. Further up, towards the Dhumdhar Kandi pass, you can find Brown Bears. Blue Sheep is another prominent species found in the area.
  • The pass itself feels more like a summit than a low point of the trek. The last stretch to the pass offers incredible panoramic views as a reward.

The best time for the Bali Pass trek is from early May to late June, and then again from early September to mid-October. It’s worth noting that weather conditions can be unpredictable during the monsoon season. In winter, the region is enveloped in heavy snowfall, rendering it a picturesque yet challenging terrain.

The Bali Pass Trek presents a challenging high-altitude adventure amidst the grandeur of the Himalayas in India. Adequate preparation with the right gear and equipment is paramount. Here’s a comprehensive list of essentials for the Bali Pass Trek:

Clothing:

  • Trekking shoes with robust ankle support
  • Backpack equipped with a rain cover
  • Trekking gaiters
  • Trekking crampons or microspikes
  • Insulating, waterproof layers, including a down jacket
  • Sub-zero temperature suitable sleeping bag
  • Hat, gloves, and scarf

Other Crucial Gear:

  • Trekking poles for stability
  • UV-protected sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
  • Water bottles and reliable purification tablets
  • Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries
  • Comprehensive first aid kit with vital medications
  • Map and compass for navigation
  • A versatile knife or multi-tool
  • Toiletries for personal hygiene
  • Nutritious snacks and sustenance

Consider the Following Additional Items:

  • Camera to capture the breathtaking vistas
  • Power bank for uninterrupted connectivity
  • Engaging reading material or entertainment
  • Effective insect repellent
  • Cash for unforeseen expenses

Packing judiciously is key, as you’ll be responsible for your own backpack throughout the trek. Dressing in layers allows adaptability to fluctuating weather conditions. Embrace the adventure, but also prioritize safety and comfort on this remarkable journey through the Himalayas.

The Bali Pass summit stands at an impressive altitude of approximately 5,227 meters (16,240 feet) above sea level.

The altitude of Bali Pass Basecamp is 4,600 meters (16,250 feet) above mean sea level.

Cardio exercises that are good for preparing for a high-altitude trek include:

Running
Swimming
Biking
Hiking
Stair climbing

 

Strength training exercises that are good for preparing for a high-altitude trek include:

Squats
Lunges
Push-ups
Pull-ups
Planks
Crunches

Week Cardio Strength Training
1 30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio 3-4 times per week 2 sets of 10-12 repetitions of each exercise, 2-3 times per week
2 40 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio 4-5 times per week 3 sets of 10-12 repetitions of each exercise, 2-3 times per week
3 50 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio 4-5 times per week 3 sets of 12-15 repetitions of each exercise, 2-3 times per week
4 60 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio 4-5 times per week 3 sets of 15-20 repetitions of each exercise, 2-3 times per week
5 60-90 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio 4-5 times per week, including 1-2 interval training sessions 3 sets of 15-20 repetitions of each exercise, 2-3 times per week

 

 

The Bali Pass Trek is an advanced-level expedition not recommended for beginners. It demands robust physical fitness, endurance, and a spirit of adventure. The trail traverses dense forests and steep gradients, presenting challenges that may be overwhelming for novices.

For those new to trekking, it is advisable to embark on less demanding journeys in the Himalayas. Some excellent options for beginners include:

Kedarkantha Trek
Har Ki Dun Trek
Chopta Chandrashila Trek
Deoria Tal Trek

Once you’ve gained experience trekking in the Himalayas, you can consider taking on the Bali Pass Trek.

 

Here are invaluable tips for novice trekkers contemplating the Bali Pass Trek:

Preparation is Key: Prioritize physical fitness with a regimen of regular cardio and strength training exercises to enhance endurance and strength.

Gradual Acclimatization: Allow your body to adjust to higher altitudes by spending a few days at lower elevations before embarking on the trek. This crucial step minimizes the risk of altitude-related discomfort.

Choose a Reliable Guide or Trekking Company: Opt for an experienced and reputable trekking company or guide. Their expertise ensures your safety and well-being throughout the trek, offering guidance on the best practices.

Listen to Your Body: Pay close attention to your body’s signals. Take breaks when necessary and avoid pushing yourself excessively. Overexertion can lead to altitude sickness and other health concerns.

Pack Wisely: Carry essential gear including appropriate clothing, trekking equipment, and ample provisions. Ensure your backpack is well-organized and doesn’t exceed a comfortable weight.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Maintain a steady intake of water and energizing snacks to sustain your energy levels throughout the trek.

Follow Leave-No-Trace Principles: Preserve the natural beauty of the trail by minimizing your environmental impact. Dispose of waste responsibly and leave nature untouched.

Prioritize Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and adhere to safety guidelines provided by your guide. Stay on designated paths and avoid risky shortcuts.

Embrace the Journey: Take time to appreciate the stunning landscapes, diverse flora, and fauna, and the unique cultural experiences that the trek offers.

Emergency Preparedness: Carry a basic first-aid kit, emergency contacts, and communication devices. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and evacuation routes.

Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Interact respectfully with local communities and embrace their cultural practices.

By heeding these suggestions, beginners can embark on the Bali Pass Trek with confidence, making the most of this awe-inspiring adventure in the heart of the Himalayas

Bali Pass got its name from the ancient stories of the Mahabharata and Hindu scriptures. Bali, known as the king of monkeys, ruled over Kishkindha Mountain and is celebrated as the one who defeated Ravana.

The ideal time for the Bali Pass Trek is late May or early June. During late May or early June, the snow begins to melt, and the sun shines brightly, making the Bali Pass trek less challenging. The surroundings become lush with vibrant plant life, creating a beautiful scene for trekkers.

September and October are perfect for the Bali Pass trek after the monsoon. The weather is lovely—clear skies, sunny days, and mild temperatures (10-15°C)—ideal for a comfortable trek without the summer heat

Reviews

6 reviews for Bali Pass Trek

  1. Harsh Vardhan Gupta

    Harsh Vardhan Gupta –

    Did Bali Pass trek with himalaya shelter. Would like to thank the entire team of himalaya shelter for their hospitality and tenderness. The team left no stone unturned to ensure that the trek becomes the most memorable experience of our lives. Awesome landscapes, beautiful meadows, adrenaline rush while walking on snow peaked mountain edges, etc is what Bali pass trek offered us. However, the experience would not have been so rewarding without the appetizing food (based on individual’s preferences), meticulous guides (Viru bhai and Devender), arduous support staff, and garrulous team that was offered by Himalaya shelter. Concatenate former and latter made our Bali Pass trek one kickass journey and something worth cherishing for lifetime!! Bali pass trek left me speechless but has turned me into a storyteller. Thanks again to the entire team of Himalaya Shelter especially Bachhan Bhai for recommending this trek. Go with Himalaya Shelter if you want one hell of a treking experience.

  2. Avatar

    Charan –

    I’m not sure how to start this off but I’ll definitely give it a good go When I first booked the trek with himalaya shelter I was a bit cautious as I knew that I would be the only one for this trek and worried if they would cancel it because of that reason but I got assurity from day one that the trek will go ahead even if it’s just me, which let’s be honest not many companies would do, this made me feel at home and I knew I could trust this company,they were in contact with me throughout till the time I finally met Bachan bhai and his excellent team, I have been on a few treks, but the guides I have seen along with Bachan bhai especially beeru bhai are the best. The trek was beautiful and the guides are really informative about the flaura and fauna. They put the safety of the trekker at first which is really important. I had to do my trek however in 7 days instead of the scheduled 9 days due to the weather but I do not think I would’ve been able to do it without beeru bhai he gave me so much confidence and helped me everywhere and every way he could especially on the steep descent where he literally carved steps for me on the snow so I could safely come down. The tents and sleeping bags used were off good quality and they were clean, the food served was really good. Overall it was an unforgettable experience and I’m looking forward to go again but this time to dhamundar khandi pass like I told to Bachan bhai next year for sure. I Would totally recommend anyone thinking about going on a trek to go with Himalya shelter. Please do reach out to me if you have further questions

  3. Avatar

    Rajesh G –

    We just finished this trek (Sept 12-20, 2021) with HS (Himalaya Shelter).  Trek was difficult and the experience was memorable, thanks to the HS team of porters and the lead, Mr. Subodh.  Mr. Bachchan Rana co-guided the team till the base camp and let SubodhJi continued the lead.
    Throughout the trek, the food was tasty and was different each day.  The team of porters was young, friendly, and quite energetic, and very helpful during the steep ascents and descents (especially towards base camp and then to Bali Pass Summit besides during dangerous climb down post summit). 
    The team of trekkers included young ones and few oldies and both gelled well with each other with good cooperation.  Most of the members were obviously exhausted few times and the HS team was considerate enough to tune the plan accordingly also making use of the buffer day to the advantage.  Those needing special attention, got their food and medicines inside their tents whenever needed.
    Overall, it was a thrilling experience trekking the Bali Pass Summit & with HS it became a lifetime memory. 

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    Dr. Hemant Gadape –

    Bali pass trek was dream trek for me as it was registered last year in May 2021 but due to COVID19 pandemic, it was cancelled. So, this year again we registered with HS only as a team of 3 family trekkers and slowly our team was increasing up to 9 trekkers before a month of starting the Trek.
    We all were very excited about Bali pass trek. Mr. Abhishek guided us for all requirements and all support from the initiation of the booking. Memorable and thrilling trek journey was scheduled from 3rd Jun to 13th Jun 22. Bali Pass trek was initiated from Sankari base camp and successfully completed at Janki chatti through Yamunotri. For this batch, we were total 11 trekkers as small and comfortable group. All trekkers were very co-operative, helpful, and never felt that we had met first time to each other. We all were felt as Bali Pass family including HS team. It was great example of teamwork also.
    Bali pass trek is really very difficult trek and need very good mental as well as physical fitness with self-motivation, teamwork and continuous guidance of trek leaders. During trek, we supported and motivated each other in difficult and tired situation and created confidence to complete the trek successfully. After reaching to Bali Pass summit, we felt that great satisfaction with cheering up each other as “we have done it successfully”. It was great achievement. But after finishing summit, we thought downward way was quite easy, but it was really very difficult terrain and felt thrilling experience during snow fall and rain fall when proceeded to reach yumunotri valley. But due to such challenges, we all are enjoyed such very beautiful and awesome trek.
    I would appreciate the effort of whole team of Himalaya Shelter (HS) initiated from trek booking with Mr. Abhishek, Introduction idol Mr. Bachan Rana, Cordinator at Sankari Mr. Subodh, our Sarthi (Driver) Mr. Sanjay, Kitchen King Mr. Sanjay, all kitchen staff, all potters, Mr. Rajendra with khacchars, Helper Mr. Arjun, Our guide Mr. Tikamji, and Trek leader Mr. Mukesh Rana. We all thankful to entire HS team for their successful management. The staff was very experienced, responsible, and constantly motivated us and generated confidence that nothing is difficult as it could be done and was able to push our self to achieve the goal. I am very happy with the quality of tasty food that was served, considering at the high altitude.
    I would also appreciate the style of Mr. Mukesh Rana as he is great personality as a leader. He is very enthusiastic and energetic, flexible, technically very strong and very friendly to each one. He has various outstanding qualities to manage whole team during the trek. During trek, I learnt many things from him about the necessity of mountain trekking. Thanks to him. Hats off to him for his great efforts during critical situations when one trekker got dropped in the valley during the trek. By God grace, he was survived and transferred to required medication timely.
    I enjoyed every moment of the trek and natural beauties. I respect the great mountains of Himalayas and holy river Supin throughout our trek for its deep holy vibrations in ‘Devbhoomi’. Also we are fortunate to have darshana to Yamunadevi temple at Yamunotri without any rush as it was miracle in such char dham yatra peak season. Thank you to HS team for all the love, support and keep up the outstanding work to had great time in Himalayas!
    There is a belief once you respect the Himalaya…… Himalaya is calling you again and again….! Hope for the upcoming trek in Himalayas………! Thank you very much.

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    halifax belfast-(connswater) –

    Having read this I believed it was very enlightening. I appreciate you taking the time and energy to put this article together. I once again find myself personally spending a significant amount of time both reading and leaving comments. But so what, it was still worthwhile!

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    Lacie Sonza –

    Keep up the wonderful work, I read few content on this website and I think that your web site is very interesting and holds bands of great info .

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Inclusions
  1. Transport support from Dehradun to Dehradun
  2. Pick-up location: Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station
    Pick-up Time: Around 7:30 am
  3. All vegetarian meals starting from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on the last day
  4. Professional Guide, Cook and Support staff
  5. First-Aid kit with Oximeter and Portable Oxygen Cylinder
  6. Kitchen tents, common tents, toilet tents with portable toilet seats
  7. Rent for camping equipment like Clean sleeping bags and foam mattresses, Good quality ‘A’ shaped or dome tents, Camping stools, Table and Crampons and gaiters if required
  8. Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
  9. Porter and mule support to carry camping equipment and NOT personal luggage
  10. Accommodation throughout the trek on a triple-sharing basis
  11. Guesthouse accommodation on the first and second last day on a triple-sharing basis
  12. All applicable taxes
Exclusions
  1. Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
  2. Any transport support during the trek apart from what is included above
  3. Any cost or services not mentioned in the Inclusions
  4. Accommodation in Dehradun
  5. Adventure Insurance
  6. Cost arising due to unforeseen incidents like bad weather, medical evacuation, roadblocks etc
  7. Porter and mule support to carry personal Luggage can be arranged at an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day (weighing up to 12 kg)
  8. Please carry a lunch box for packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythenes and Aluminium foils. Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱