What is the difficulty level of Kareri Lake Trek?
Kareri Lake is an easy to moderate level trek and an ideal expedition for anyone who has maintained a reasonable level of fitness. It offers an easy trail for the most part of the journey, however, one has to pass through pieces of ground which is filled with rocky outcrops and steep upwards hike.
The trail starts with a steep gradient and then levels out over the ground. The trail becomes easier as it has a lot of steep parts where you can climb by using the steps which have been cut through the rocks by the locals. It passes through several serene landscapes which comprise of rhododendrons and pine forests.
In the end, the trekkers are rewarded with a surreal view of Kareri Lake. Kareri Lake trek reaches up to an elevation of 9600 feet above sea level where Kareri Lake is located in the Himalayas. Kareri Lake is a suitable trek for beginners with moderate fitness, children above 10 years and experienced trekkers.
How long is the Kareri Lake trek?
The total duration of the trek stretches over a span of 3 to 4 days. The trek starts from Mcleodganj where you follow the trail towards Kareri Lake. After reaching the lake and camping there, the trek ends when you take the journey backwards to Mcleodganj. The entire trek stretches to a distance of 25-35 kms. .
How to prepare for Kareri Lake Trek?
Any person with a moderate level of fitness can enjoy this trek. However, one needs to start preparing with a proper fitness regime at least a month before to undertake the trek. One can begin with a little bit of training before planning to undertake the Kareri Lake trek.
One should start at least 4 weeks before the date of the trek by incorporating a fitness schedule in their lifestyle. The routine should involve a mix of exercises with cardio workout and strength training. The cardio workouts like walking, jogging, cycling etc. are necessary to strengthen your heart and lung muscles along with improving the utilisation of oxygen in the body.
Strength training is necessary to tone your muscles and helps you prepare physically for the trek. Moreover, beginners can prepare by maintaining a regime of proper diet and rest in order to prepare themselves for any situation that can occur during the actual trek.
How many kms of trekking is required each day?
The distance which needs to be covered every day over 3 days of completing Kareri Lake is detailed below:
- Day 1:
You have to start trekking from Dharamkot towards Kareri Lake. The distance covered on the first day is 8 kms and then one can rest for the night in one of the village houses of the Gaddi tribe.
- Day 2:
The distance covered on this day is around 13 kms as you make your way towards Kareri Lake. This day, one can enjoy the vistas of the lake along with Minkiani pass and stretches of oak, pine and rhododendron forests.
- Day 3:
This part of the trek is a downhill journey which can be completed by trekking for about 7 kms to reach towards the base of Kareri village and then leave for Dharamkot.
What is the Best time for Kareri Lake Trek?
The best time to enjoy Kareri Lake trek is from May to June and then from September to October. The season wise description for best time to take Kareri Lake trek is as follows:
- Spring Season:
During the months of March and April, the valley is full of colorful blooming flowers in the forests. It is a good time to escape the crowds, however, the temple may not be open.
- Summer Season:
This is the peak season for trekking and offers a pleasant time to have a great adventure. The overall weather is good and it allows a nice trail for the beginner trekkers.
- Monsoon season:
During this time in the months of June, July and August, the rains may hamper the trekking expedition. However, it is a good time to enjoy the religious extravaganza of Kareri Lake as locals come to the temple to celebrate Krishna Janmashtami. .
- Winter Season:
From the month of November to January, the winter season is a delight for experienced trekkers who want to traverse through the snow. It becomes a challenging encounter for anyone looking to have a wonderful Himalayan trek.
What are some things to know before going on Kareri Lake trek?
- While trekking, one should be cautious about the wild animals as the valley is infamous for leopard sightings and also known as the Bear Valley.
- One should always be carrying the rain gear despite the weather forecasts as the Dhauladhar valley is known for many instances of unexpected rainfall.
- One should invest in proper shoes as some parts of the trail are rocky and will require stiffer outsoles for a comfortable trek towards Kareri Lake.
- Do not indulge in drinking while trekking during the day.