Bansi Narayan Temple Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy - Moderate
TREK DURATION
3 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
6,696 Feet
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
12 km
BASECAMP
Bansi Narayan Temple, Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
May to June | September to October
PICKUP POINT
Dehradun (Prince Chowk)
Bansi Narayan Temple Trek Overview
Uttarakhand is a beautiful state. No wonder it is called the Dev Bhumi, meaning the land of the Gods. The place is also a heaven for the trekkers. Every trail here leads to a trek. Among these beautiful trails is a hidden gem of the Bansi Narayan Temple Trek. It is situated in the Urgam Valley of Chamoli district. The trek leads to Lord Vishnu’s beautiful temple. It is situated at an elevation of about 3,600 meters.
This amazing Bansi Narayan Temple Trek begins at Devgram village. Trek moves to the alpine meadows through beautiful trees. This trek offers peace, quiet, and pure beauty in contrast to many congested Himalayan paths. The trek covers 12–15 km one way. Though it looks like a short trail, the steep climbs make it a rewarding adventure for those who seek both spiritual peace and mountain thrill.
Importance of Bansi Narayan Temple
The trek is filled with natural wonders all along. Bansi Narayan Temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu. It opens for devotees only once a year on the auspicious day of Raksha Bandhan. It is a custom that devotees trek up to tie rakhis to the lord and seek blessings. Legend has it that Lord Vishnu revealed himself to his devotees in his great divine form. There is prodigious spiritual energy in the stillness of the stone shrine surrounded by snow-clad peaks. Camping here under the starry night is an amazing experience, too. Listening to the untold stories of the stone-carved temple mesmerizes every trekker.
The trek is renowned for its raw charm. This is still a less-travelled trail and thus, not very commercialized. You trek through dense forests of pine, deodar, and rhododendron. In the spring, this jungle turns into an underpass of pink and scarlet blossoms. In the middle meadows, you can watch rare Himalayan birds. You will hear the chirping of Monal and Blue Magpie. Finally, you reach a crest that frames the greatest Himalayan giants. Here you witness Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Ghunti. The trek blends adventure and devotion, giving you both a physical challenge and inner calm. For those seeking an offbeat Himalayan trail, the Bansi Narayan Trek is as authentic as it gets.
Culture & Local Life of Nelong Valley Villages
On the way to the trek, you pass through small villages like Bansa and Devgram. Time seems to stand still there. Villagers still live a hassle-free life. They are dependent on farming, cattle, and forests. They are simple and welcoming. They offer trekkers local food, stories of faith, and even guidance to the temple. Staying in a homestay here is a chance to witness mountain life in its purest form. The trek is about experiencing the cultural roots of Uttarakhand.
Quick Trek Facts
The Bansi Narayan Trek begins from Devgram (6,614 ft). From Devgram, the trail climbs steadily to an altitude of 11,772 ft at the temple. It takes around 6–8 hours to ascend and 3–4 hours to descend. Total trek distance is 12–15 km one way. It is an easy-to-moderate trek. The trail is not too technical, but the steep sections require stamina. Beginners with preparation can do it, while seasoned trekkers will find it refreshing for its offbeat beauty.
Fitness Necessities
Bansi Narayan Temple Trek is a short trek. However, due to high altitude and steep climb, it add to the thrill. The path starts gently but becomes steep on the way. As you near Mulakharak and the temple, a steep climb starts. You need to comfortably walk 8–10 km and climb stairs without muscle strain. Therefore, with basic fitness practice, you will manage well. Once you plan for the trek, you need to start your fitness practice at least 10 days before the trek. A well-strategized plan for walking, light jogging, or stair climbing every day prepares you well. Even beginners with an average fitness routine can complete this trek with the right mindset.
Best Time to Take Bansi Narayan Trek
Trekking on this route is amazing in the spring (April–June). Rhododendron blossoms flourish in springtime woodlands. Red hues abound in the woodland, and everything appears exquisite. Fall is also a good season to trek here. In autumn, the trek offers crisp skies and golden meadows. A significant and spiritual time to trek is during Raksha Bandhan. The temple doors open at this time. And the valley comes alive with pilgrims, rituals, and festivity. Due to slippery trails, trekking in extreme monsoons is not good. The area is extremely prone to landslides.
How to Reach Bansi Narayan Temple Trek
You can drive to Joshimath from Rishikesh or Dehradun. This is a 9-hour journey. From Joshimath, you reach Devgram village via Urgam Valley. Devgram is the base for the trek. Trekking starts at Devgram and first reaches to Mulakharak meadows, and then further uphill to the temple. This combination of road journey and trek makes the destination remote yet accessible.
Short Itinerary (3 Days)
- Day 1: About 9 hours drive to Joshimath from Dehradun/Rishikesh. From there you can reach to Devgram. Settle down for the night.
- Day 2: Start the trek from Devgram to Bansi Narayan Temple. This will take 6–8 hours. Camp there.
- Day 3: Back to Devgram. Reach Rishikesh/Dehradun.
Extended Itinerary (4–5 Days)
- Day 1: Reach in Devgram.
- Day 2: Trek to Mulakharak and camp there.
- Day 3: Mulakharak to Bansi Narayan Temple. Explore and camp.
- Day 4: Descend to Devgram. Stay in a local homestay.
- Day 5: Return to Rishikesh/Dehradun.
This plan gives more time to enjoy the meadows, birdlife, and local culture.
For this short trek, you need to pack lightly. However, pack all the essentials you might need. You would need a good trekking shoes, a pair of warm clothes, a raincoat, gloves, a torchlight, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a walking stick. A water bottle with purification tablets is useful, as there are many streams on the way. You should carry energy snacks like dried fruits, chocolates, and protein bars. Additionally, you will need a first-aid kit, a power bank, and identification proof. As the nights are cold even during the summer season, warm clothing is a must.
You can choose to stay in homestays at Mulakharak Meadows or at Devgram. You can also stay in camp close to the temple. Sleeping under the starry sky and waking up to the sparkling peaks would be an added-on adventure. If you choose to homestay in the valley, you are welcomed with warm locals. This provides you with community warmth, unique food, and untold stories. To create a well-rounded experience, many trekking groups combine the two.
It is better if you start the trek in the early morning. This way, you will easily reach the temple before dark. The trail passes through dense forests, so you must avoid trekking alone. Always trek in a group or with a guide. Although there are natural streams on the way, it is good to carry a water bottle. As the place holds spiritual heritage, respect the local customs near the temple and villages.
To experience the local culture and cuisines, it is good to stay in local eco-stays or homestays. You will find many comfortable stays around the Urgam Valley. Many like YogMatra in Danikhet arrange treks, meals, and cultural experiences. You enrich yourself with their lifestyle and support the local economy if you stay with locals. These stays also provide guides who are familiar with the trail. This makes your trek both safe and authentic.
The Bansi Narayan Temple Trek is a journey where nature meets culture and spirituality. One can choose this trail to avoid the chaos of crowded trails. This trail offers peace, beauty, and a chance to feel the sacredness of the Himalayas. Are you planning to take Bthe ansi Narayan Temple Trek or any other trek in the region? Connect with us.
Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.
Inclusions
- Transportation – Transport Support from Dehradun from Day 1 to Day 3 (Pickup time: 7:30 am, Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station)
- Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.
On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek. - Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
- Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
- Permission - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
- Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
- Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
- CLOAKROOM - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.
Exclusions
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Travel Expenses - Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
- From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC.
- Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
- Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 350 per bag per day.
- Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
- Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
- Anything apart from inclusions
- Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱
Yes, the trek is beginner-friendly. One can trek on this trail with basic fitness.
Not really. On the trek, only patchy networks are available.
The trail is very slippery. Therefore, it is not recommended. Trek becomes very slippery and risky.
It is suggested to trek with group or at least be alert. Some trekkers report of seeing Himalayan bears.
Apart from the beautiful temple, meadows, birdlife, and crystal-clear peaks of Himalayan views.
Read More on Bansi Narayan Temple Trek
Photo Gallery
Treks by Categories
Treks By Month
Treks By Region
Treks By Experience
