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How to do Bali Pass Trek?

Updated: May 12, 2023

Many of us dream of a trek with the thrill of an expedition, right? If you want to enjoy this version of the trek then Bali Pass Trek is the right choice for you. Bali Pass Trek will leave you speechless with its mesmerizing landscape with a touch of flora and fauna.


Bali Pass Trek - Trek with the thrill of an expedition


The Bali Pass Trek is one of the most beautiful and adventurous treks in the Indian Himalayas. Located in the Uttarakhand region of India, the trek takes you through some of the most remote and unspoiled parts of the Himalayas. The trek is known for its beautiful scenery, challenging terrain, and the thrill of an expedition. In this blog, we will take a closer look at the Bali Pass Trek and what makes it such a unique and exciting adventure.

Bali Pass Trek
Bali Pass Trek

Overview of the Bali Pass Trek


The Bali Pass Trek is a 9-day trek that takes you through some of the most beautiful and remote parts of the Indian Himalayas. The trek starts in the quaint town of Sankri, which is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. From Sankri, you will begin your trek to the beautiful village of Taluka, which is located at an altitude of 2,400 meters.


From Taluka, the trek takes you through dense forests of deodar, oak, and pine trees, and beautiful meadows. You will also pass through several remote villages and cross several rivers and streams on your way to the Bali Pass. The Bali Pass is located at an altitude of 4,900 meters and is one of the most challenging and thrilling parts of the trek.


Bali Pass
Bali Pass Trek

After crossing the Bali Pass, the trek takes you to the beautiful Ruinsara Lake, which is located at an altitude of 3,648 meters. The lake is surrounded by beautiful snow-capped mountains and is considered to be one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in the Indian Himalayas.


The trek ends with a descent back to Sankri, where you can relax and take in the beautiful scenery of the Uttarkashi district.


Highlights of the Bali Pass Trek


The Bali Pass Trek is a challenging trek that offers some of the most beautiful and unspoiled scenery in the Indian Himalayas. Some of the highlights of the trek include:


1. Bali Pass: The Bali Pass is located at an altitude of 4,900 meters and is one of the most challenging parts of the trek. The pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a true test of your endurance and trekking skills.


2. Ruinsara Lake: Ruinsara Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake that is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake is a great place to relax and take in the beautiful scenery of the Himalayas.


3. Remote Villages: The trek takes you through several remote villages, where you can experience the local culture and way of life of the people who live in the Indian Himalayas.


4. Beautiful Scenery: The Bali Pass Ruinsara Lake Trek offers some of the most beautiful and unspoiled scenery in the Indian Himalayas. From dense forests of deodar, oak, and pine trees to beautiful meadows and snow-capped mountains, the trek offers something for everyone.


5. Adventure: The Bali Pass Ruinsara Lake Trek is not for the faint-hearted. It is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and trekking skills. But for those who are up for the challenge, it offers a true adventure that you will never forget.


The Bali Pass Ruinsara Lake Trek is a challenging and thrilling adventure that takes you through some of the most beautiful and unspoiled parts of the Indian Himalayas. With breathtaking scenery, remote villages, and challenging terrain, the trek offers a true test of your endurance and trekking skills. If you are looking for an adventure that will take you off the beaten path.


Bali Pass Trek Itinerary

The Bali Pass Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek that takes you through the rugged terrain of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India. The trek is known for its stunning mountain scenery, remote villages, and thrilling river crossings. Here is a detailed itinerary for the Bali Pass Trek:


Bali Pass is considered an unexplored destination in the Indian Himalayas and is especially recommended for adventurers who want to pursue offbeat treks.


  • Bali Pass Trek Difficulty Level- Difficult

  • Region- Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand

  • Duration- 8 days

  • Maximum Altitude- 16,240 feet

  • Bali Pass Trek Distance- 64 km

  • End Point- Janki Chatti

  • Start Point- Sankri

  • Best Season- May to June and September to October

  • Temperatures in these months- Plus 25 degrees maximum to -10 degrees minimum

Mobile Network: Jio is available till Sankri and Mori side. Airtel is available till Purola. BSNL is available in Sankri and you will get BSNL signals on the trekking route also in some places.



Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (2,020 m)

On the first day of the Bali Pass Trek, you will start your journey from Dehradun and drive towards Sankri, which is the base camp for the trek. The drive takes around 8-9 hours and covers a distance of approximately 220 km. The route takes you through Mussoorie, Yamuna Bridge, and the towns of Nainbagh and Purola before reaching Sankri.


Bali Pass Trek
Sankri - Bali Pass Trek

Once you reach Sankri, you will check into your guesthouse or hotel and rest for the day. You can also explore the small town and visit the local market to buy any last-minute trekking essentials that you may need. You can also interact with the locals and get to know more about their culture and lifestyle. In the evening, you will attend a briefing session with your trek leader, who will give you important information about the trek, the route, and the safety measures to be taken. Overnight stay will be at the guesthouse or hotel in Sankri.


Day 2: Sankri to Taluka to Seema (2,560 m)

On day 2, after breakfast, we will start our journey to Taluka, which is around 12 km from Sankri. We will drive through scenic villages and reach Taluka, a small hamlet located on the banks of the Supin River. From here, we will start trekking towards Seema, which is a beautiful village located at an altitude of 2,560 m. The trail is mostly flat with some easy ascents and descents. We will trek through dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron trees, which are home to various species of birds and animals. We will also cross several small streams and wooden bridges along the way. We will reach Seema by late afternoon, where we will set up our campsite and spend the night.


Trekking distance: 14 km

Trekking time: 6-7 hours




Bali Pass Camping
Bali Pass Camping


Day 3: Seema Camp (2560 M) to Rainbasera (3086 M) - 9 km trek (4 hours)

On Day 3, the trek continues from Seema Camp to Rainbasera, covering a distance of 9 km and taking around 4 hours to complete. The trail goes through dense forests of oak and pine trees, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.


The first part of the trek is a gradual ascent till Puani Garaat. From here, the trail becomes steeper and involves crossing a few streams and boulder sections. As you climb higher, the landscape changes and becomes more rugged and rocky.


After a challenging climb, you will reach Rainbasera, which is a beautiful meadow surrounded by snow-capped peaks. This is the camping site for the day, and you can rest and enjoy the picturesque views.


Overnight stay in tents at Rainbasera.


Day 4: Rainbasera (3086 M) to Ruinsara Tal (3565 M) – 7.5 km (4 hours)

On day 4 of the Bali Pass Trek, you will trek from Rainbasera to Ruinsara Tal, which is a distance of approximately 7.5 km and takes around 4 hours to complete.


The trek begins with a gentle climb, offering views of the valley below and snow-capped peaks in the distance. The trail takes you through a dense forest of deodar and pine trees, with occasional clearings where you can catch glimpses of the surrounding mountains.


As you approach Ruinsara Tal, you will see the snow-capped Dhumdhar Kandi peak rising above the lake. The Ruinsara Lake is a serene glacial lake surrounded by high mountains, and is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the region. You will set up camp near the lake for the night, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the peaceful lake.


The campsite at Ruinsara Tal is a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after the trek. You can take a dip in the icy-cold waters of the lake or simply sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views. The night sky at this altitude is also a sight to behold, with millions of stars twinkling above you.


Day 5: Ruinsara Tal (3565 M) to Odari (4008 M) - 4 km (3 hours)

On day 5 of the Bali Pass Ruinsara Lake Trek, you will start early in the morning after breakfast, and begin your ascent towards Odari campsite. The trek will cover a distance of around 4 km and take around 3 hours to complete.


The trek from Ruinsara Tal to Odari is a steep climb, and you will need to be careful while walking. The trek will take you through beautiful meadows, alpine forests, and cascading waterfalls. You will also get to witness the mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains.


As you reach Odari, you will be greeted with stunning views of the Himalayas. The campsite is located at an altitude of 4008 meters, and you will be camping overnight here. Spend some time relaxing and soaking in the beauty of nature, before retiring to your tents for the night.


Day 6: Odari (4008 M) to Base Camp Bali Col (4678 M) - 3.25 km trek (3 hours)

On Day 6, the trekking trail starts with a gradual climb up to the upper valley. After that, trekkers will trek through a steep ascent over boulder-laden terrain to reach Bali Col Base Camp, located at an altitude of 4678 meters. The Base Camp is situated at the bottom of the Bali Pass and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It takes about 3 hours to reach the Base Camp, and trekkers will set up their camps here for the night.


The Base Camp is a picturesque location surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers stunning views of the valley below. Trekkers can spend the evening exploring the area around the campsite, taking in the breathtaking views, and acclimatizing to the high altitude. They can also engage in some fun activities with their fellow trekkers or just relax and enjoy the serene beauty of the mountains. After dinner, trekkers can retire to their tents for a peaceful night's sleep.


Day 7: Base Camp (4678 M) to Lower Dhamni (3415 M) via Bali Pass (4950 M) - 10 km (8-10 hours)

On day 7, you will embark on the most challenging and adventurous part of the Bali Pass Trek. The trek today takes you to Bali Pass, which is the highest point of this trek at an altitude of 4950 meters. From the base camp, you will begin your ascent towards the pass. The trail is quite steep and rocky, and you will need to be careful while navigating it.


As you climb higher, the views of the surrounding mountains and valleys will become more and more breathtaking. You will see the snow-capped peaks of the Swargarohini range, the Bandarpunch range, and the Kalanag peak. The trail is quite challenging, and it will take you around 4-5 hours to reach the top of the pass.


Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the mountains all around you. The descent from the pass is also quite steep and rocky, so you will need to be careful while coming down. After a couple of hours, you will reach Lower Dhamni, where you will set up camp for the night.


Day 7 is the longest and most challenging day of the trek. It is important to pace yourself and take breaks as needed to ensure that you do not get exhausted. Make sure to carry enough water and snacks to keep your energy levels up throughout the day. It is also recommended to wear sturdy trekking shoes with good grip to navigate the steep and rocky terrain.


Bali Pass Camping
Bali Pass Camping

Day 8: Lower Dhamni (3415 M) to Jaan ki Chatti (2650 M) via Yamunotri - 9.5 km trek

On day 8 of the Bali Pass trek, you will trek from Lower Dhamni to Jaan ki Chatti, passing through the holy town of Yamunotri.


You will start your day early and descend toward the Yamuna River. The trail will take you through the forested areas of the Govind Pashu National Park, and you might encounter some exotic wildlife on your way.


After a few hours of descent, you will reach the Yamunotri temple, one of the four holy shrines of Hinduism. This temple is dedicated to the river goddess Yamuna, and it is believed that taking a dip in the holy water of the Yamuna River here will wash away all your sins.


After visiting the temple, you will continue your trek toward Jaan ki Chatti. The trail is well-defined, and you will pass through several small villages and lush green fields. You can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as you descend.


After a 9.5 km trek, you will reach Jaan ki Chatti, where you can relax and rest for the night.


Day 8 of the Bali Pass Trek is a long and tiring day, but the experience of visiting the holy town of Yamunotri and the beautiful landscapes of the Govind Pashu National Park is truly worth it.

Yamunotri
Yamunotri


Day 9: Janki Ki Chatti to Dehradun

On the final day of the Bali Pass Trek, you will drive from Janki Ki Chatti to Dehradun. The drive will take around 7-8 hours and you will pass through picturesque landscapes and small villages on the way.


Once you reach Dehradun, you will bid farewell to your trekking team and take back some unforgettable memories of the Bali Pass Trek. It is recommended to spend the night in Dehradun before heading back home or to your next destination. You can explore the city and try some local cuisine before your departure.


Overall, the Bali Pass Trek is a challenging and thrilling trek that is ideal for experienced trekkers who want to push their limits and explore the stunning beauty of the Himalayas. With its scenic vistas, challenging terrain, and rich cultural heritage, this trek offers a unique and unforgettable experience that is sure to leave you spellbound.


Q&A on Bali Pass Trek


1. What is the Bali Pass Trek?

The Bali Pass Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek that takes you through the remote and stunningly beautiful valleys of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India. The trek involves crossing the Bali Pass, which is at an altitude of 4,900 meters and offers stunning views of some of the most famous peaks in the region, including Swargarohini and Bandarpunch. The trek is known for its thrilling climb and stunning landscapes, making it a favorite among experienced trekkers and adventure seekers.


2. What is the duration of the Bali Pass Trek?

The duration of the Bali Pass Trek is generally around 9 to 10 days, depending on the itinerary chosen by the trekking group or agency. The trek covers a total distance of around 50-60 km, with a mix of moderate to difficult trails and steep ascents and descents. The trek requires good physical fitness and stamina, and it is recommended to acclimatize well before embarking on the trek.


3. What is the difficulty level of the Bali Pass Trek?

The Bali Pass Trek is considered to be a difficult trek due to its high altitude and steep ascents and descents. Trekkers need to have prior experience in trekking and be physically fit to undertake this trek. The trek involves crossing the Bali Pass at an altitude of 4,900 meters, which can be challenging. Therefore, it is recommended for experienced trekkers or those who have done high-altitude treks before.

4. What is the best time to do the Bali Pass Trek?

The best time to do the Bali Pass Trek is during the summer months of May, June, and September. During these months, the weather is clear and dry, which makes for good trekking conditions. However, it is important to note that the monsoon season from July to August can make the trek difficult and risky due to the possibility of landslides and slippery trails. In addition, the winter months from November to February are not recommended for the Bali Pass Trek as the region experiences heavy snowfall and the trekking route remains closed.


5. What is the altitude of the Bali Pass?

The altitude of the Bali Pass is 4950 meters or 16,240 feet above sea level.

6. What are the accommodation options available during the Bali Pass Trek?

During the Bali Pass Trek, trekkers can stay in different types of accommodation options depending on their preferences and budget. Here are some of the popular options available:


1. Guesthouses and homestays: In the starting point of the trek, Sankri, and other nearby villages like Taluka and Seema, there are several guesthouses and homestays available for trekkers. These accommodations provide basic amenities like a comfortable bed, hot water, and simple meals.


2. Tents: For the rest of the trek, trekkers usually carry their own camping gear and set up tents at designated camping sites. Tents provide a more immersive experience in nature, but trekkers must be prepared to rough it out with no access to showers or other facilities.


3. Alpine huts: At the base camp before Bali Pass, there are alpine huts available for trekkers. These huts offer a more comfortable stay than camping and have basic amenities like beds, blankets, and food.


It is important to note that the availability of accommodation options can vary depending on the season and weather conditions, and it is recommended to check with your trek organizer for the best options.


7. Is it safe to do the Bali Pass Trek?

The Bali Pass Trek is considered a challenging trek that involves high altitude and rugged terrain, and therefore requires a certain level of physical fitness and trekking experience. However, if you are well-prepared and follow the guidance of experienced guides and porters, it can be a safe and rewarding experience.


As with any trekking expedition, it is important to take necessary precautions and adhere to safety guidelines such as carrying appropriate gear, staying hydrated, avoiding sudden altitude gain, and being mindful of weather conditions.


Additionally, it is recommended to go through a medical check-up before embarking on the trek to ensure that you are physically fit to undertake the challenging trek.


8. What are the documents required for the Bali Pass Trek?

To do the Bali Pass Trek, you need to obtain necessary permits from the Forest Department and carry valid identification proof, such as a passport, Aadhar Card, or driving license. If you are a foreigner, you also need to carry your visa and passport with you at all times during the trek. It is advisable to carry a photocopy of all your documents as well. Additionally, you may also need to carry a medical certificate stating that you are fit to undertake the trek. It is recommended to check the latest guidelines and requirements before embarking on the trek.


9. What is the cost of the Bali Pass Trek?

The cost of the Bali Pass Trek can vary depending on several factors such as the duration of the trek, the number of people in the group, the level of accommodation chosen, the mode of transportation, and the services provided by the trekking company.


Typically, the cost of the Bali Pass Trek ranges from INR 20,000 to INR 25,000 per person. This cost usually includes accommodation, meals, trekking permits, transportation, and the services of a guide and porter.


However, it is important to note that additional expenses may arise during the trek, such as purchasing snacks, water, and personal items, so it is advisable to carry some extra cash.


10. What are the other popular treks near the Bali Pass?

There are several popular treks near the Bali Pass that trekkers can explore. Some of them are:


1. Har ki Dun Trek - This trek is known for its scenic beauty and offers a glimpse into the culture and lifestyle of the locals.


2. Kedarkantha Trek - This trek is popular for its stunning views of the snow-clad mountains and offers a unique experience of camping in the snow.


3. Rupin Pass Trek - This trek is known for its challenging terrain and offers stunning views of the Rupin river and the Kinnaur Kailash range.


4. Buran Ghati Trek - This trek is known for its diverse landscapes, including dense forests, meadows, and snow-covered mountains.


5. Dodital Trek - This trek takes you to the beautiful Dodital lake, surrounded by the peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas.


These treks are also located in the Uttarakhand region and offer a unique experience of trekking in the Himalayas.

 


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