Himachal Pradesh is known for its rugged, mountainous terrain, and perhaps the best way to explore this is by taking a trek here. A hike will not only allow you to explore this state, but also give you the feeling of thrill and adventure. The Minkiani Pass Trek is one such journey you can embark upon to discover the natural bounties this state is blessed with.

Not just walking up and down the slopes, but this Minkiani Pass and Kareri Lake Trek also involves plenty of camping, so that you have a true experience of being in the mountains. Taking you to the highest altitude of about 14000 feet, this is a 5-day long journey. The total distance you cover on this trek is around 48 km. One of the highlights of this hike is that it takes you past many villages, allowing you to learn about the local way of life.

After beginning this Minkiani Pass Trek in McLeodganj, travel to the campsite in Kareri village. The second day will take you to the pleasing campsite of Rioti, where you will spend the night. Next, a 4-hour walk on a rough, muddy and rocky trail will take you to the serene Kareri Lake, another highlight of the journey. One sight of this lake, situated at a height of about 10000 feet above sea level, will leave your body and soul refreshed.

The fourth day of the venture will take you to the highest point of this trek, the summit of Minkiani Pass. Standing at around 14000 feet above sea level, you will enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountains. The pictures you click here, with snow-tipped peaks all around, will make an ideal souvenir of the expedition. From here, you return to Kareri Lake and then to the placid hill station of McLeodganj.

While trekking near Dharamsala, you will have an unforgettable time, exploring the natural magnificence of Himachal Pradesh. Your journey will also get you across the fascinating flora and fauna that thrives in the region. This is the perfect trek to give an adventurous touch to your life, and come closer to nature and yourself.

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Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival in McLeodganj | McLeodganj to Kareri Lake
Upon arrival in McLeodganj, proceed to the guest house to freshen up. After enjoying refreshments, begin this Minkiani Pass Trek by heading to Kareri village. The easy trail will take you through dense forests of pine. This approximately 5-hour long walk will take you past many small villages, where you can learn about the life of the locals. Most parts of this trail involve downhill trekking, while only the final section has some uphill hike. The small Kareri village is your resting place for the night.

Day 02: Kareri Village to Rioti
The trek to the Rioti campsite is quite challenging, and your fitness will be put to the test here. Taking around four to five hours, the trail will take you along the Liund River, which you will have to cross many times. Sometimes there will be makeshift bridges, but other times you will have to jump from boulder to boulder to cross the stream. Tonight, after trekking near Dharamsala, you will camp in an open meadow, situated at an altitude of over 8000 feet.

Day 03: Rioti to Kareri Lake
With Kareri Lake as the destination, this is among the most scenic sections of the trip. Beginning from Rioti, the venture first takes you on a narrow path between lush mountains and a narrow gorge. You will come across diverse flora of the region on the way. As you continue to gain height, the thick vegetation will become less dense. Later, you will be walking on a rocky trail, and then along a river. Soon, all the deciduous vegetation will disappear, and only firs and spruces will be visible. The 4-hour trek will lead you to a pleasing meadow, from where you will be able to see Baleni Pass, Minkiani Pass and a valley below. This is your camping ground for the night.

Day 04: Kareri Lake – Minkiani Pass – Kareri Lake
At this time, the toughest section of the Minkiani Pass Trek in McLeodganj begins, taking you to the summit of Minkiani Pass at an altitude of around 14000 feet. You will have to trek for about 4.5 km to reach the pass, and the same while coming back. The views of the surrounding mountains will definitely be amazing from the top. Indulge in a photo shoot before beginning your trek back to the campsite near Kareri Lake, where you will stay for the night.

Day 05: Kareri Lake to Ghera | Ghera to McLeodganj
As you begin your walk from Kareri Lake, you will be walking along a gushing river. As you reach a lower altitude, the thick vegetation will soon reappear, and you will see tall trees of deodar and pine. After reaching Ghera village, board a Jeep and drive your way to McLeodganj, where this Minkiani Pass and Kareri Lake Trek ends.