Kareri Trek - Himachal

Kareri Lake Trek: Himtrip Guide to One of Himachal’s Most Beautiful Alpine Lake Trails

Introduction

The Kareri Lake Trek, located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh near Dharamshala, is one of the most stunning alpine lake treks in India. Known for its crystal-clear glacial lake, vibrant forests, pristine meadows, and sweeping views of the Dhauladhar range, the Kareri Lake trek is perfect for beginners and intermediate trekkers seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility.

At an elevation of around 2,934 meters, the lake is fed by melting snow from the Dhauladhar peaks and remains a sacred site, home to the ancient Shiva-Shakti temple on its banks. The trek offers a rich variety of landscapes — deep forests, fast-flowing streams, rugged stone trails, alpine grasslands, and finally, the surreal Kareri Lake basin.

1. Trek Overview

Altitude

~2,934 m (9,626 ft)

Trek Difficulty

Easy to Moderate

Total Trek Distance

~26 km (round trip)

Ideal Duration

2–3 days

Nearest Town

Dharamshala / McLeod Ganj

Base Village

Kareri Village

Best Season

March–June, September–December

Not Recommended

Peak monsoon (July–August) + Heavy winter (Jan–Feb)

2. Why the Kareri Lake Trek is Special

🏔 A Rare Crystal-Clear Glacial Lake

The lake’s transparent water reflects the snow-clad peaks and creates a mesmerizing mirror effect on sunny days.

🌲 Forests, Waterfalls & Meadows

The trail passes through:

• Dense oak and pine forests

• Rocky gorges

• Chimdhru Nallah stream

• Alpine meadows and shepherd pastures

⛺ Perfect for Camping

Kareri Lake’s open alpine basin offers magical camping under starry skies, considered among the best camping locations in Himachal.

🚶 Beginner-Friendly Yet Rewarding

Though the ascent gets steep near the end, it is a comfortable trek for fit beginners and a favorite weekend trek for North Indian travelers.

3. Route Details & Trek Experience

Most trekkers follow a 2–3 day itinerary starting from Kareri Village, located about 25 km from Dharamshala.

Day 1: Dharamshala → Kareri Village → Rioti Campsite

• Drive from Dharamshala to Kareri Village (1–1.5 hours)

• Trek begins with gentle ascent through pine forests

• The path follows the Kareri Nallah stream — wooden bridges, waterfalls, and lush greenery are highlights

• Stop at Rioti (7–8 km from Kareri village) for night camping

Trail Highlights:

• Beautiful shaded forest walk

• Shepherd settlements

• Rustic cafés and small dhabas

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Day 2: Rioti → Kareri Lake

This is the most scenic — and slightly challenging — part of the trail.

• Steeper gradient

• Rocky and narrow trails

• Follow the stream all the way up

• Cross boulders, wooden bridges, and alpine grasslands

• Reach the stunning Kareri Lake with the Shiva temple on its bank

Kareri Lake Experience:

• Turquoise clear water

• Dhauladhar peaks like Minkiani Pass surround the lake

• Ideal for exploration and photography

• Optional second night camping at lake

Difficulty: Moderate

Day 3 (Optional): Kareri Lake → Kareri Village → Dharamshala

• Descend along the same trail

• Takes less time

• Reach Dharamshala by evening

This day can be skipped if you plan a 2-day trek with a longer descent on Day 2.

4. Best Time to Visit Kareri Lake

🌼 March–June (Spring/Summer)

• Pleasant weather

• Blooming meadows

• Ideal for first-time trekkers

🍁 September–December (Autumn/Early Winter)

• Crystal-clear skies

• Snow appears on peaks

• Night temperatures drop sharply

🌧 July–August (Monsoon)

Not recommended due to:

• Slippery rocks

• Landslides

• Stream swelling

❄ January–February (Winter)

• Lake may be frozen

• Heavy snowfall

• Only recommended for experienced trekkers with guides + snow gear

5. Trek Difficulty & Fitness Requirements

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Beginners with basic fitness can complete the trek

• Requires ability to walk 10–12 km a day

• The ascent becomes steep during the final stretch

• Trekking poles are helpful

Fitness Prep:

• Daily walks (3–5 km) for one week

• Light cardio sessions

• Leg strengthening exercises

6. Permits & Local Regulations

• No special permit required for Kareri Lake

• Registration may be done at Kareri Village or Forest Checkpost

• Camping regulations may vary seasonally

• Plastic is discouraged — carry reusable bottles

7. Food & Water Availability

Along the Trail

• Several small dhabas offering:

  • Maggi

  • Omelette

  • Tea

  • Parathas

  • Dal-chawal

At Rioti & Kareri Lake

• Campsites usually provide dinner and breakfast

• Fresh stream water is abundant — safe if filtered/boiled

8. Weather & Temperatures

Season

Day Temp

Night Temp

Spring (Mar–Apr)

10–18°C

2–7°C

Summer (May–Jun)

15–23°C

8–12°C

Autumn (Sep–Oct)

12–20°C

0–5°C

Early Winter (Nov–Dec)

8–15°C

–5 to 2°C

9. What to Pack for Kareri Lake Trek

Clothing

• 1 warm jacket

• 1 fleece layer

• Quick-dry T-shirts

• Trekking pants

• Woolen cap + gloves (night cold)

• Rain jacket (Mar–Jun, Sep–Oct)

Gear

• Trekking shoes

• 20–40 L backpack

• Trekking pole (optional but useful)

• Headlamp

• Water bottle (1–2 liters)

Other Essentials

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm

• First-aid kit

• Power bank

• Energy bars

10. Safety Tips

• Avoid monsoon season

• Start early to avoid afternoon storms

• Stay with your group or guide

• Follow marked trails

• Do not venture onto snow bridges or thin ice

• Respect the temple area (remove footwear, no loud music)

11. Cost Breakdown (Approx.)

Expense/Cost (INR)

Travel to Kareri Village

₹500–₹1,000

Guide (optional)

₹800–₹1,200 per day

Camping (per night)

₹800–₹1,200

Meals on trail

₹100–₹300 per meal

Total Estimated Cost:
₹2,000–₹4,000 per person (budget-friendly)

12. Kareri Lake vs. Triund: Which One to Choose?

Duration

TRIUND - 1–2 days

Kareri - 2–3 days

Difficulty

TRIUND - Easy–Moderate

Kareri - Easy–Moderate

Best For

TRIUND - First-time trekkers

Kareri - Beginner–Intermediate trekkers

Highlight

TRIUND - Dhauladhar views

Kareri - Alpine lake

Crowds

TRIUND - Higher

Kareri - Moderate

Choose Triund for a quick getaway,
Choose Kareri for a more immersive, nature-rich experience.

Conclusion

The Kareri Lake Trek is a perfect blend of adventure, serenity, and Himalayan beauty. Whether you're trekking through dense forests, following the glittering stream, or standing at the edge of the pristine lake with snow-capped mountains rising above, every moment of this journey feels magical.

Ideal for beginners yet fulfilling for seasoned trekkers, Kareri Lake stands out as one of Himachal’s most captivating and accessible alpine treks.