Manimahesh Kailash, located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, is a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. At an altitude of 4,080 meters, the Manimahesh Lake lies at the base of the majestic Manimahesh Kailash peak. Thousands of devotees and trekkers embark on this spiritual and adventurous journey every year, particularly during the Manimahesh Yatra in August-September. This guide provides all essential details to plan a successful Manimahesh Kailash trek.
Best Time to Visit Manimahesh Kailash
The ideal time for the Manimahesh Kailash trek is during the Manimahesh Yatra, which starts on Krishna Janmashtami and concludes on Radha Ashtami (August–September). Trekking is also possible from June to October, but extreme cold and snow can make the journey challenging outside of the pilgrimage season.
Trekking Routes for Manimahesh Kailash
There are two primary routes to reach Manimahesh Lake:
Hadsar Route (Traditional & Popular)
- Base Camp: Bharmour (2,200 meters)
- Trek Start Point: Hadsar (13 km from Bharmour)
- Distance: 13 km from Hadsar to Manimahesh Lake
- Duration: 2–3 days
- Route: Hadsar – Dhancho – Gauri Kund – Manimahesh Lake
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
- Details: This is the most commonly used route, involving steep ascents and rugged terrains. Dhancho serves as an important overnight stop for acclimatization.
Kugti Route (Challenging & Scenic)
- Base Camp: Bharmour
- Trek Start Point: Kugti Village
- Distance: ~35 km
- Duration: 4–5 days
- Route: Kugti – Kartik Swami Temple – Alyas Base Camp – Manimahesh Lake
- Difficulty Level: Difficult
- Details: This is a more scenic but strenuous trek, crossing glaciers and high-altitude passes.
Permits & Registration
- No special permits are required for Indian pilgrims.
- Foreigners may need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for trekking in Himachal Pradesh.
- Registration is mandatory during the official Manimahesh Yatra for safety reasons.
How to Reach Manimahesh Kailash
- By Air: Nearest airport – Gaggal Airport, Kangra (170 km from Bharmour)
- By Train: Nearest railway station – Pathankot (180 km from Bharmour)
- By Road: Bharmour is well-connected by road from Pathankot, Chamba, and Dharamshala
Accommodation Options during the trip
- Bharmour: Guesthouses, hotels, and Dharamshalas
- Hadsar & Dhancho: Tented accommodations, langars, and dhabas
- Manimahesh Lake: Basic shelters and camping options
Packing Essentials
- Clothing: Thermal wear, fleece jackets, waterproof layers
- Footwear: Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip
- Camping Gear: Sleeping bags, tents (if trekking independently)
- Medical Kit: First-aid kit, altitude sickness medication
- Food & Water: Energy bars, dry fruits, water purification tablets
- Others: Trekking poles, torch, sunscreen, raincoat
Important Tips for a Successful Trek
- Acclimatization: Spend a day in Bharmour to adjust to the altitude.
- Physical Fitness: Prepare with cardio and endurance training at least a month before the trek.
- Hydration: Stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness.
- Respect Traditions: Maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage; avoid alcohol and non-vegetarian food.
- Travel in Groups: Ideal for safety and companionship.
- Carry Cash: Limited ATM availability in Bharmour and no ATM facilities beyond Hadsar.
Conclusion
The Manimahesh Kailash Trek is a blend of spiritual fulfillment and high-altitude adventure. Whether you undertake it as a religious pilgrimage or a challenging trek, proper planning and preparation will ensure a safe and memorable experience. Plan wisely, pack smartly, and embrace the divine beauty of Manimahesh Kailash.
