Dhauladhar 7 Lakes Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate - Difficult
TREK DURATION
7 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
4,200 meters
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
70 Km
BASECAMP
Himachal Pradesh
BEST TIME
May-June , September-October
PICKUP POINT
Kareri Village
Dhauladhar 7 Lakes Trek Overview
Dhauladhar 7 lakes trek is located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It offers trekkers a chance to visit all 7 lakes of Dhauladhar: Nag Dal Lake, Lam Dal Lake, Kali Kund, Kareri Lake, Chanderkoop Lake, Sukh Lake and Dam Ghodi Lake. These lakes are situated on the high-altitude (approx 4,200) and considered sacred in Himachal's culture. It is believed that sages and monks meditated on the banks of these lakes for years. Some lakes are named after Hindu deities and locals regard them as powerful spiritual sites where the wishes get fulfilled.
Trekking in Dhauladhar 7 lakes takes you through the Dhauladhar range of Himalayas. This range got its name 'Dhauladhar' due its white colour of snow-clad mountains which are frozen most of the time. The Dhauladhar range is made of sharp granite cliffs and gneiss, deep gorges and a mix of alpine vegetation like deodar and oak forests.
- Kareri Village: Kareri Village serves as a basecamp for trekking in Dhauladhar 7 Lakes Trek. Kareri Lake is also situated here. It offers a peaceful setting mixed of dense forests and meadows and makes it a popular campsite for trekkers to experience nature.
- Lamadugh & Laka Got: Both places are known for their natural beauties. Lamadugh is located near Manali and famous for its alpine meadows while Laka Got located near McLeodganj known for snowy mountains and streams.
- Nag Dal and Kali Kund: These are some lakes of Dhauladhar 7 Lakes Trek. Trekkers use the surrounding area for camping and acclimatization. These places look deserted but are ideal for solitude and meditation.
- Lam Dal: Lam Dal lake is the largest of 7 Lakes. It is also a pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's known for its spiritual aura and high frequency vibes. People come here to get rid of their negative baggage.
- Nag Dal Lake (4,200 m): It is dedicated to the Nag Devta (serpent deity) and also associated with the Bhagsunag Temple. Local consider it holy and worship it on the occasion of Nag Panchami.
- Lam Dal Lake (3,960 m): It is the largest and most prominent among seven. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and considered a pilgrimage site. During the Lam Dal Yatra (July-August), you can see devotees here doing pilgrimage.
- Kali Kund (4,100 m): This lake is believed to be associated with Goddess Kali. Area wise it's a small lake. It has dark water and quiet surroundings which creates a mystical aura.
- Kareri Lake (2,934 m): It is the most accessible among seven, popular for trekking. The lake is shallow and it has crystal-clear water. Due to shallowness, the lake bed can be seen.
- Chanderkoop Lake (4,000 m): It is named after the moon. It remains frozen almost all year. You can see floating icebergs on the lake during summer time.
- Sukh Lake (4,200 m): As its name suggests, it symbolizes peace and pleasure. Locals believe that spending time here brings mental peace and harmony.
- Dam Ghodi Lake (4,100 m): It's one of the least visited lakes. Named after a horse, there are few mythological stories related to this lake. The lake surrounding is pristine and untouched.
The Difficulty Level of the Dhauladhar 7 lakes trek is a Moderate to Difficult.
Trekking in Dhauladhar 7 Lakes Trek requires good stamina and a good level of physical and mental strength.
Trekkers will cross/face:
- Remote areas (difficult to navigate)
- Steep ascents and descents
- Rocky terrain and narrow ridges
- Snowy patches
- Altitude gain, AMS probability is high
- Unpredictable weather (rainfall and strong winds)
Dhauladhar 7 Lakes Trek is best suitable for experienced trekkers who have done at least one trekking in Himalayas. Beginners can do it only if they are physically fit. Joining a group is advisable.
The ideal time to trekking in Himachal Pradesh starts from late Summer to Early Autumn. Temperature range is from 10°C to 15°C in day time and around 2°C and below at night time.
- June to July: This time snow starts melting and passes are open.
- August to September: After monsoon, the meadows are full of flowers and make trekking a vibrant experience.
- Late September to October: This time sky is clear and you get to see the stunning view of Dhauladhar snow-capped peaks.
Avoid trekking in winter to early spring (November to May) due to heavy snowfall, cold temperature and inaccessible trails.
For trekking in Dhauladhar 7 Lakes Trek, the nearest towns are Dharamshala and Kangra.
- By Air: Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala) is the nearest airport to Kareri (around 20 km).
- By Train: Pathankot Railway Station (Punjab) is the nearest railway station to Kareri (around 90 km). From Pathankot Railway Station, buses or taxis can be taken to Dharamshala then to Kareri.
- By Road: From Delhi or Chandigarh, you can drive to Dharamshala. Buses run regularly to Dharamshala from Delhi and Chandigarh.
From Dharamshala, local transport and cabs are available to Kareri Village.
Fitness training includes cardio, running and swimming, legs, shoulders and core training, stair climbing with loaded backpack
- Start training 3-4 weeks in advance)
- For acclimatization, spend one night at Kareri Village
- Hydrate yourself and eat well
- Be mentally prepared for long trekking and weather changes
- 2-3 quick-dry t-shirts and trek pants (warm and light)
- Insulated jacket/fleece
- Thermal innerwears
- Woolen gloves, socks and cap
- Waterproof jacket
- High-ankle waterproof trekking shoes
- Slippers/sandals
- Trekking pole
- Sunglasses
- Head Torch with spare batteries
- Toiletries (biodegradable soaps and wet wipes)
- First aid kit
- Personal medicines
- Documents: ID proof, medical certificate etc.
- Power bank and offline maps
- Energy bars, dry fruits, ORS sachets
- Small towel
- Reusable cutlery and water bottles
Day 1: Drive from Dharmshala to Kareri Village
Drive Distance: 28 km
Altitude: 1800 m
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snack + Dinner
You will get to Kareri Village this afternoon. This small town is right below the Dhauladhar mountains. It has evergreen trees all around.
Spend the day getting used to the height and the clean air. Local guesthouses have simple rooms. Families there cook the food. Walk around the village slowly. See the stone paths and the farmers working. If the weather is good, take a short walk near the river.
Drink plenty of water and rest well. You have a long walk tomorrow. The air gets cold when evening comes. Keep warm and relax in your room. Or sit by the kitchen fire.
Day 2: Start trek from Kareri Village to Kareri Lake (around 13 km/5-6 hrs)
Trek distance and duration: 5 - 6 km; 4 - 5 hours
Altitude: 1800 m - 2450m
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snack + Dinner
Start walking after breakfast. The path goes through oak and rhododendron forests. It moves around rocky hillsides. You will cross streams with water so clear you can see the stones below. As you climb slowly, the forest gets thinner. You see grassy meadows instead. After five to six hours and about thirteen kilometers, you reach Kareri Lake. The clear water reflects the hills and the sky. The campsite is near the lake. You might see shepherds bringing sheep to feed. In the afternoon, rest by the water or walk along the rocky edge. The mountain cold returns as night comes. Camp here tonight. You will eat a simple, warm meal.
Day 3: Trek to Lamadugh and Laka Got. It's a gradual ascent.
Trek distance and duration: 7 km; 3200 meters
Altitude: 2940m - 3200
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snack + Dinner
Leave camp after an early breakfast. You will start a slow climb up. The path gets steeper as you head toward Lamadugh and Laka Got. You pass through high meadows and stony slopes. The trees stop. Now the land is open. You can see snowy peaks and rocky ridges. At Lamadugh, you walk through patches of wildflowers if it is the right season. Often, clouds drift by, covering the sun and then going away. You reach Laka Got by afternoon. Shepherd huts stand in the open area. The air is thin. The cold is steady. Rest at camp. Watch the light change on the mountain. Gather for a good meal before dark.
Day 4: Trek to Nag Dal and Kali Kund
Trek distance and duration: 7 km; 7 -8 hours
Altitude: 3200 m - 4350m
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snack + Dinner
Start with a steady climb up. Follow the old trails shepherds use. Cross rocky ground and rough spots. Sometimes there is still snow. Nag Dal is a small, quiet lake set among large rocks. Keep walking to Kali Kund. This is another high mountain lake that locals think is holy. The air here feels clean and untouched. Clouds reflect in the water. Spend the day walking on the grassy banks. Gather water and watch the birds near the shore. Camp close by. Share stories with other trekkers or your guides. Expect colder nights here and quiet under the open sky.
Day 5: Trek to Lam Dal, with More Lakes
Trek distance and duration: 7 km; 7 -8 hours
Altitude: 4350m - 3800m
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snack + Dinner
Leave early and walk toward Lam Dal. This is the largest lake in the Dhauladhar mountains. You will cross a high pass. You will see more hidden lakes on the way. The trek is long. It is about twelve kilometers and takes six to seven hours of steady walking. By Lam Dal’s rocky shore, you might see small shrines left by pilgrims. The water is deep and blue. High cliffs surround it. Spend time at the different lakes. Each one is quietly beautiful and has its own stories. Get back to camp before sunset. Your meals tonight will be simple and warm. You eat under the stars with a soft wind blowing.
Day 6: Back to Kareri Lake by a New Path
Trek distance and duration: 8 km; 7-8 hours
Altitude: 3800m-2950m
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snack + Dinner
Leave your camp and start walking down. Today’s path drops through steep valleys and forest clearings. You pass Dam Ghodi Lake. You walk through remote grazing lands. You see mountain flowers and stone shelters. This walk is about fifteen kilometers and takes six to seven hours. Near Kareri Lake, the land looks softer. The sound of water gets louder. Seeing the lake again means you are returning to comfort. Set up camp near the shore. This is your last night in the hills. Spend the evening resting your tired feet. Talk about your trip so far.
Day 7: Trek back to Kareri Village
Trek distance and duration: 5 - 6 km; 4 - 5 hours
Altitude: 2940m - 2450m
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snack + Dinner
The last day is an easy walk down to Kareri Village. You walk down past the forests. You cross old bridges over clear streams. The air gets warmer as you go lower. Green fields spread out below the mountain slopes. You arrive in the village by afternoon. You can celebrate your return with a fresh meal and a hot drink. The trek ends with tired legs and quiet memories. The steady life of the village is here again. Some people choose to stay one more night. They let the mountain calm last a little longer before leaving.
With Expertise from Himalaya Shelter
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 that 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 - Reach Kareri Village. Pick-up time 6:30 am,
Last Day: Trek back to Kareri Village.
- 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 tents 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 - A specially designed sleeping bags which can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like micro spikers, gaiters, 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.
- 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 which will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek and skillful 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 with 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 porter and mules to carry common equipment’s.
- Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave behind their luggage at no charge.
Trek Exclusions:
- 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 (tiffin box / mug), 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 500 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
The Dhauladhar 7 Lakes Trek is a breathtaking adventure that takes trekkers through the Dhauladhar range in Himachal Pradesh, exploring seven pristine glacial lakes. It offers stunning landscapes, high-altitude meadows, and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
This trek is considered moderate to challenging. It requires good physical fitness due to steep ascents, rugged terrain, and high-altitude trekking. Prior trekking experience is recommended.
The trek includes Kareri Lake, Lam Dal Lake, Chandra Koop Lake, Sukh Dali Lake, Dham Ghodi Lake, Kali Kund Lake, and Nag Dal Lake, each offering unique beauty and stunning surroundings.
The ideal trekking season is May to June and September to October, when the weather is clear, trails are accessible, and the lakes are at their most picturesque.
The Dhauladhar 7 lakes trek typically lasts 7-9 days, with altitudes ranging from 9,000 ft to over 14,000 ft. Trekkers will experience a mix of forested trails, rocky climbs, and alpine landscapes.
Trekkers should carry proper trekking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, sleeping bags, trekking poles, and essential medical supplies. Acclimatization and fitness preparation are crucial for a smooth experience.
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