TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
TREK DURATION
10 N / Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
13, 450 feet
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
60 Km
BASECAMP
Himachal
BEST TIME
June, September, July, October, November, December, January, February, March, April, May
PICKUP POINT
Delhi
Lam Dal Lake trek is a serene and religious walk located in the scenic Himachal mountain ranges. The lake is encircled by great high snowed mountains, green fields, and silent hollows that make each step magic. The lake is considered sacred by many local people; hence, the location is very pure and positive. As you continue to walk through this path you will encounter little streams, colorful flowers and even grazing sheep, all which makes the journey seem like a dream.
Lam Dal Lake hiking is ideal when one wants to enjoy the beauty of nature and have something that is not as busy and more natural. The trekkers tend to camp along the lake where they get to spend their nights full of stars and absolute silence. The dynamic nature of the colors of the mountains in the sunrise and sunset is memorable. It is not only a journey towards the destination, but rather a journey to enjoy every minute of it on the way, the chill of the air, the splash of the water and the fact that one is not in a big city anymore. It is a long experience that is hard to forget.
The Lam Dal Lake has a rich religious and cultural background that traces back to many years. This lake is considered to be holy and related to Lord Shiva by the local people and hence it is very close to their hearts. Old legends and stories of the village show that saints and shepherds used to visit this lake to meditate and pray. The lake was never congested as the place is high in the mountains and this facilitated in keeping it clean and serene. According to many elders, the water of the lake is sacred and has blessings and that is why people still admire the place very much even nowadays.
Lam Dal Lake was not regarded as a spiritual value only, but also as the source of natural beauty over time. Until recently this was a secret of local people and pilgrims who came to see the place but gradually trekkers and nature lovers began to find it. The lake remains undisturbed and peaceful even after the increased number of visitors due to the remote location.
The greatest attraction on the Lam Dal Lake trek will be the sacred lake itself. Local people believe that the lake is sacred, and thus the atmosphere is very serene and spiritual. The blue water framed by the high snowy mountains is a reward to the trekkers after a long way. Numerous individuals sit in silence by the lake in order to relax, pray or be energized by the serenity of the location.
The walk is through some of the most scenic mountain sceneries of Himachal. It has green fields, rocky trails, waterfalls and broad open valleys which change as one proceeds. The trail has snow-covered peaks visible at many points and this makes the journey visually exciting. During spring and summer, there are colorful flowers that are growing on the path and in higher places, there might be snow. With each step along the path you see something different and thus you never feel bored during the journey and you will always wonder what is in the next step.
The other attraction of this trek is the adventure that it provides. The path includes some simple walks and some moderate ascents, and thus makes it exciting without being too challenging. The sense of accomplishment comes as a result of crossing little streams, passing through rough mountain trails, and ascending even greater heights. The weather is also unpredictable and this brings some excitement to the trip. The victory of these challenges as they finally get to the lake gives trekkers a sense of pride and confidence.
One of the most memorable aspects of the Lam Dal Lake trek is camping either by the lake or the trail. The nights spent in the mountains are very silent, and the sky is normally laden with bright stars since there is no city light as such. Trekkers are sitting on small campfires, telling stories and enjoying cold fresh air. Waking up in a tent with mountains around you is very refreshing and it is not like the usual day to day life. This basic camping in the mountains turns out to be one of the best memories of the entire trek.
Day 1: Delhi to Pathankot
Day 2: Pathankot To Dalhousie
Day 3: Dalhousie To Chamba
Day 4: Chamba To Chatrari - Barie
Day 5: Barie To Drakund
Day 6: Drakund To Lam Dal Lake
Day 7: Lam Dal Lake To Chander Koop Lake And Back To Lam Dal Lake
Day 8: Lam Dal Lake To Kareri Lake
Day 9: Kareri Lake To Kareri Village - Dharamshala
Day 10: Dharamashala Sightseeing
Day 11: Dharamshala To Pathankot Cantt
Lam Dal Lake trek is regarded as a moderate level trek, as a rule, that is not very easy and not very hard. One who is of average fitness and has a little walking routine will be able to do it with training. The path has easy walking points and some short steep climbs that may leave you exhausted particularly on the higher days. Novices may also attempt this trek, and must however begin taking regular walks or light exercise a few weeks prior to the trek. When walking slowly and having a good rest, the majority of people can enjoy and complete the trek without significant difficulties.
Climbing up the mountain, the air is less dense, and some individuals may find it somewhat hard to breathe. This is the reason why one should walk at a slow pace, take enough water and have proper breaks. Cold weather in higher camps may also render it a little difficult particularly during the night. Proper warm up attire and patience can be of great assistance in dealing with this section of the journey.
The other reason why this trek is moderate is the long time of walking on some days. There might be days where 6-7 hours of trekking may be needed and it may be tiring in case you are unprepared. The trail has rocky areas, hills, and rough roads hence your legs might be exhausted at the end of the day.
The Lam Dal Lake hike is also a little challenging due to the weather and topography. Weather in the mountains is a fluctuating one, sunshine today and clouds or wind the following day. The path can sometimes contain snow or slippery stones and one needs to walk very carefully. Temperatures during colder months reduce significantly at night, and therefore, camping is a little challenging to individuals who have no experience in mountain climbing.
This is the most favourable and popular season to do the trek. It is generally pleasant, with a clear sky, and the paths are clear following snow cover in winter. Greens, colorful flowers, and beautiful mountain views, all these can be observed during these months. The day is made to be comfortable to walk in and slightly cold at night, something most trekkers like. The lake too is well exposed and appears bright blue thus the journey is very rewarding.
July is not a very good time to trek as the trail can get slippery and muddy. Trekkers should have good shoes and protective rain cover such as poncho or raincoat. If you like greenery and are not afraid of rain, it may still be a nice time, however, one should be more careful while walking.
It is also a good time in early October when you prefer the cold and clear mountain scenery. The crowds are smaller and the sky is normally very clear, which is good for photography. But nights are considerably colder, and in the higher places there might be light snow. During this period, warm clothes are very essential.
The months are typically not the best months to go trekking due to heavy snow and extremely low temperatures. The path frequently becomes congested and the lake-side is hard and unsafe to access. It should only be taken into consideration by very experienced trekkers who are properly equipped in winter gear, but in most cases it is advisable to have a period off.
Lam Dal Lake is found in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. You can drive in Chamba and then, to Barie and then begin trekking to Lam Dal Lake.
Delhi To Pathankot: There are lots of trains between Delhi and Pathankot. Board an overnight train and arrive in the morning at Pathankot. You can also find some direct bus services.
Pathankot To Dalhousie: Pathankot and Dalhousie are very near to each other at a distance of only 80 km. You can reach Dalhousie by a shared cab.
Dalhousie To Chatrari Via Chamba: Reach Dalhousie to Chatrari by a shared taxi. In case you cannot get a direct taxi then seek taxi service till Chamba. From here, take a shared taxi to Chatrari.
The warm clothes and comfortable shoes are the most significant items to bring when visiting Lam Dal Lake trek. The weather at the mountains varies very rapidly, that is why it is better to bring a good warm jacket, a thermal innerwear, a pair of gloves, a woolen cap and extra socks. It is also important to carry sunscreen, lip balm and sunglasses since the sun is bright at high altitude.
Long walking hours can be accompanied by a comfortable backpack, first-aid kit, water bottles, and energy snacks.. It is useful to have a flashlight or headlamp that comes with additional batteries in case of the night or in tents. Never leave out such toiletries as toothbrush, tissue paper, hand sanitizer and small towel. Always have a power bank to charge your phone, and a reusable bag to carry your garbage. Light but smart packing will make all your journey even more comfortable and enjoyable.
Among the many things that can be done at the Lam Dal Lake trek is just sit anywhere close to the lake and watch the things around you and how beautiful they are. It is a very serene and spiritual location, and thus a lot of trekkers come to rest, meditate or simply observe the water and mountains. The snowy mountains and the blue transparent lake are beautiful in the reflection, particularly at the early morning and at the sunset. You do not have to hurry here, you only have to breathe the fresh air and hear the natural sounds of wind and water which make a special experience that will not be forgotten.
Another spectacular thing during this trek is camping. A tent under the lake or on the nearby meadows creates a totally different impression compared to the urban life. The sky is congested with bright stars at night since there is no pollution and artificial lights. It is also relaxing to wake up in a tent with mountainous scenery in every direction.
The trek of Lam Dal Lake is ideal for photography and leisurely walks in nature. There is beauty in every bit of the trail, green meadows, wildflowers, rocky paths, small streams, and a big view of the mountain. There is also a tendency to take a lot of breaks by the trekkers to take pictures or enjoy the view. Although you might not be a professional photographer, the mere pictures captured using a mobile phone become beautiful since the environment is naturally beautiful. The pilgrimage is made more fun by walking slowly and paying attention to little details such as birds, clouds and flowers.
You must plan your trip before embarking on Lam Dal Lake trek. Prepare by checking weather, route, and the number of days of the trek, i.e. be mentally prepared. Move slowly and at a constant pace and have short breaks when you feel fatigued. Most accidents that occur in the mountains occur as a result of people attempting to walk very fast or disregarding their body signals. Pay attention to your body, breathe correctly and have good sleep. It is also a good idea to start early in the morning since you will have plenty of daylight and will not have to encounter the sudden change of weather in the evening.
You have to be careful of what you carry. Trekking shoes that have a good grip are extremely important since the trail would be rocky or slippery. It is better to have warm clothes, gloves, and a waterproof jacket, despite the sunny weather because the weather in the mountains may turn unpredictable. Always have some water, energy snack items and a mini first-aid kit with headache, cold and minor injury medicine. A headlamp or a flashlight comes in handy when you are in the dark and you have a power bank that keeps your phone charged in case of an emergency. Carrying light yet smart is easier to walk with and at the same time safer.
The trekkers do not remember to drink water during cold weather and hydration is highly essential during high altitude. Rather than waiting until you are so thirsty, drink a little water repeatedly. Also bring dry fruits, chocolates or energy bars to ensure that your energy level is maintained when walking long hours. Do not over eat junk food since it may make one feel lazy or feel uncomfortable during the trekking. Having simple, warm, and light meals will keep your body active and will minimize the possibilities of being ill or feeling weak on the trail.
Always take care of the mountains, and maintain the environment clean. Never litter the trail with plastic, wrappers or bottles - always bring your litter in a small bag. Do as your guide or the locals tell you since they are more familiar with the route and weather conditions than the visitors. Do not enter into unrecognized shortcuts and dangerous zones alone in the name of photographs.
Lam Dal Lake trek with Himalaya Shelter (HS) can easily be customized to suit you and make the journey more comfortable and personal. We assist you in planning how many days you want to spend on a trekking trip, what type of camping to do, what foods to eat and what fitness level you have so that the trip is just right for you. Our team organizes guides, permits, tents and safety services whether you are off on a slow and relaxing trek as a beginner, or an experienced trekker wanting a more adventurous experience.
It implies that you do not need to be concerned with such minor details as you can concentrate on having fun in the mountains. The trek is also safer, more organized and stress free when customized with a professional team particularly when you are traveling with friends or family. It allows you to go at your own speed and explore nature and at the same time have professional assistance when you require it.
The Dalai Lama Trek is a cultural and guiding trek around the Dharamshala area that allows you to trace monasteries, small towns as well as silent forest trails. It is not a very challenging trek and hence beginners and families also enjoy it. On the path, there are Tibetan prayer flags, local markets and stunning mountain scenery. The atmosphere is relaxed and spiritual and as such, the journey is not fatigable.
Triund Trek is the most popular trek in Dharamshala. It has a broad open meadow on the peak where one has a splendid view of the Dhauladhar mountains on one side and the Kangra valley on the other. The path cuts through oak and rhododendron forest and the walk is a very picturesque one. Overnight camping is also a popular activity among many trekkers in this area to see the sunset and sunrise. It is ideal to first time mountain goers who would like to have a mountain experience that is not so challenging.
The Minkiani Pass Trek is an idyllic mountain trek with a wide open view with a serene natural environment. This journey is full of green fields, small rivers and rocky trails with the great Dhauladhar mountains always present at the far end. It is not particularly busy and thus trekkers have the chance of enjoying the pure silence and fresh air in the journey. It may seem to be a bit difficult to climb the pass, but then when you are on top of it, you see the infinite valleys and snowy mountains that are all worthy of the effort. It is a wonderful walk among nature lovers, photographers and peaceful mountain hikes without noisy tourist resorts.
Thamsar Pass Trek is an adventure trek of Himachal Pradesh which is beautiful and enjoyed by adventure seekers and nature lovers. The trekkers enjoy spectacular views of the Dhauladhar ranges, wild flowers in summer and even patches of snow even in hot seasons. Spending the night outdoors, traversing streams and hiking mountain trails turn the entire experience to be memorable. It is an average to challenging hike, and suitable to those people who like long walks, the beauty of nature, and a small adventure in the mountains.
Himalaya Shelter is now operating in the sections of the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT), offering structured, well-paced journeys across the Indian Himalayas with a strong focus on safety, acclimatisation, and responsible travel.
Day 1: Delhi To Pathankot
When you get to Delhi, you will see our team. All the arrangements will be made by our team. Next we will be boarding a night train and we will arrive at Pathankot the following morning.
Day 2: Pathankot To Dalhousie
At Pathankot we pick you up in our cab and take you to Dalhousie. By afternoon we will get to Dalhousie. Once we have checked-in at the hotel we can do some sightseeing.
Day 3: Dalhousie To Chamba
We will start our day with breakfast and will then take a drive to Kalatop Wild Life Sanctuary and then tour Khajiyar. We shall eat some lunch there and then drive to Chamba.
Day 4: Chamba To Chatrari - Barie
We shall have our breakfast in the guesthouse and then begin to drive towards Chatrari village. It is a tiny temple that is renowned with an ancient Shakti temple. We shall proceed to Barie after praying.
Day 5: Barie To Drakund
After breakfast in the campsite, the team will begin trekking towards the Drakund campsite. It is a 11km walk with a moderately difficult trail.
Day 6: Drakund To Lam Dal
You will take an early morning breakfast and the team will pack you lunch. The journey is a hike on a rocky area. Once there you can have a holy dip in the lake and have your lunch by the lake. Rest and see the beauty of this glacial lake.
Day 7: Lam Dal To Chander Koop Lake And Lam Dal
Chander Koop Lake is one of the beautiful lakes around the Lam Dal Lake. Eat your breakfast at the Lam Dal Lake Camp and pack some lunch. At this point the team will head to the Chander Koop Lake. It may take about 2 hours. When you arrive at the lake, see this secret beauty. After spending some time, you will return to the Lam Dal Lake Campsite.
Day 8: Lam Dal Lake To Kareri Lake
We are going to begin trekking today towards Kareri Lake. The journey is approximately 12km and some smaller lakes might be encountered along the path.
Day 9: Kareri Lake To Kareri Village - Dharamshala
Early morning breakfast will be taken at the camp site of Kareri Lake and then we will begin our trekking towards the village of Kareri. Once we get to Kareri village we will take a cab to Dharamshala.
Day 10: Sightseeing at Dharmashala
Spend your entire day in Dhamashala where you have a lazy morning and thereafter see some beautiful places. Go to Mcleod Ganj and experience Tibetan culture.
Day 11: Dharamshala To Panthankot
Have a good breakfast and visit the surrounding places. In the evening our team will take you to Panthankot railway station. You will board the night train to Delhi.
It is found within the Dhauladhar range of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh.
Yes, trekkers normally stay in the meadows near the lake.
It is advisable particularly with first time trekkers.
Yes, the lake is spiritual and sacred to the local people.
There is little or no network on the higher trail.
Yes, beginners can do it with preparation and at a slow pace.