Uttrala Trek
Uttrala trek is a small hamlet located nearly 11 km north of Baijnath.
Uttrala is an ideal place to enjoy a break from the humdrum of the city life. If you are a Trekking enthusiast, this serene destination is worth the visit.
The trek to Ravi valley over Jalsu Pass starts from Uttrala. Jalsu Pass (3600 m) is one of the lowest passes of the majestic Dhauladhar, and is easy to cross. Alternatively, one can also trek from Uttrala to Gdoh village.
Uttrala to Gdoh village trek: The first destination of this trail is the Parai village located at an altitude of 2390 m and at a distance of 12 km from Uttrala. The trek to Parai Village winds up all along the Parai Nullah.
Parai is a captivating village located at an altitude of about 2,390 m above sea level, on the Baijnath “ Jalsu Pass trek route. The village offers panoramic view of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar mountain ranges. It is also an ideal base village for trekking and mountaineering and several base camps are available here.
From Parai to Yara Jote: (13 km): You need to cross the Jalsu pass to reach Yara. Its an easy and accessible pass. Yara is covered with vast expanse of verdant meadows. The residents of the area set-up temporary tea stalls to help trekkers during the trekking season.
Yara Jote to Sarai Village (12 km): Sarai village is located at an elevation of 2788 m, and a downhill trek leads you to this hamlet from Yara. Surai is known for plants having medicinal properties. The village is bounded by thick forest of mixed variety. You can pitch your camp here for a day, and enjoy the virgin surroundings and invigorating atmosphere.
Sarai- Gadoh village: From Sarai, a 12 km trek takes you through Laake Wali Mata Temple and Nayagram, and few smaller hamlets to Gadoh village. The trek descends steeply at some locations to lead you to the village.
Exact Location: Uttrala is a village situated 12 km from Parai. District: Chamba.
Nearest Town: Parai (12+ km)
Distance from Delhi: 540+ km.
How to reach
Uttrala is well connected by road with Manali, Dharamsala and Mcleodganj. Dharamsala is well-linked by road with Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla and Pathankot. The road network to Dharamsala is well-maintained and it is connected by National Highway 1 (NH1).
Dharamshala to McleodGanj is only 9 km. Buses are available from 0730 hrs in the morning to 2030 hrs in the evening. Jeeps and taxis are also available during late hours.
The nearest railway station to Dharamsala is Kangra Mandir (narrow gauge) which is at a distance of 22 km. It is a small station , all the trains do not stop at this station. The closest major rail junction is Pathankot, which is about 85 km away from Dharamsala. Pathakot is well connected with all the major cities in India.
The nearest airport to Dharamsala is the Gaggal airport in Kangra valley. The airport is at a distance of 12 km from Dharamsala and reaching here, one can hire a taxi to reach Dharamsala.
Trek Length: Approx: 49 km
Best Time to Visit: March and June.
Grade: Easy
Things to carry
- Walking stick
- Hiking shoes
- Woolen clothes
- Water, juices, snacks
- Electric torch
- Medical kit
- A good compass
- An extra pair of clothes
Other attractions in the vicinity
Baijnath: Baijnath is a picturesque town and a famous pilgrimage destination for the followers of Hindu religion. The main attraction here is the ancient Baidyanath Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. One can also visit Tashijong Gompa, located at a distance of 5 km and worth a visit. Bajinath is located 46 km south east of Dharamsala.
Dharamsala: It is beautiful spot in the upper reaches of Kangra Valley on the Himalayan Treks. The town is divided into the upper Dharamsala called Mcleodganj, the middle Kotwali Bazar and lower Kaccheri area. The place is encircled with dense pine and deodar forests, tea gardens and beautiful hills. The place is also an important center for Tibetan Buddhism.
Dalhousie: It is a picturesque hill station built during the British period. This famous hill station is located at an altitude of 2039 m above sea level. The place is surrounded by alpine vegetation and there is plenty of mesmerizing natural sceneries to explore. Some of the major attractions in Dalhousie are Jandhri Ghat, Satdhara Springs which has great therapeutic value as it contains mica with medicinal properties; Subhash Baoli and St Francis Church.