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Kedarkantha Trek

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Please note that this is a special trek designed for stargazing enthusiasts. The trek fee is slightly more than the regular fee. Know more about the trek here. 

This is a trek specially designed for trekkers above 58 years. The itinerary is specially designed to be different from a regular trek. The trek fee is also Rs 3000 more than the regular fee (Please note this is only for Himalayan treks) Know more about the trek here.  

Our Adventure Therapy Trek is led by a trained therapist, who will guide you through reflective and therapeutic exercises during the trek. To accommodate this expertise, the fee is ₹5,000 higher than our regular trek fee. Know more about the trek here. 

Please note that the family treks are meant for families with a child/children under 18 years of age. If you do not fit this criteria, you can register for any of our regular groups. Read more about family treks here.

Please note, this is an open Collaborative Leadership Programme with a focus on networking and building Collaborative Leadership skills for young professionals and university students. The trek fee is 5000 more than the regular fee. Learn more about the trek here: https://indiahikes.com/blog/open-collaborative-leadership-program

The Indiahikes Summer Camp aligns with the Adventurous Journey of the IAYP programme. Our treks provide a challenging outdoor experience where participants plan, train, and trek in an unfamiliar environment. They develop teamwork, leadership, and resilience while navigating trails, camping, and engaging with nature—fulfilling all the requirements of the IAYP Adventurous Journey.

You are joining our waitlist. Here are a few guidelines that you should keep in mind:

The chances of getting a confirmed slot totally depend on the cancellations we receive from confirmed trekkers. The cancellations cannot be predicted hence are uncertain.

We close the movement of the waitlist 7-15 days before the trek starts.

You don't have to pay right now. You will receive a notification upon confirmation of your slot. You will have 24 hours to pay and confirm your booking.

We are known for our pioneering safety practices in trekking. Microspikes, oximeters, and BP checks became standards thanks to us. In the mountains, emergencies don't care who you're with—everyone knows that when trouble hits, you look for the yellow tents of Indiahikes. When you join our treks, we first make our No-Compromise Safety Promise. It’s our unwavering commitment to keep you safe, no matter what.

Our No-Compromise Safety Promise

Our commitment to the environment is relentless. We don’t just encourage responsible trekking; we insist on it. That’s why our Green Trails principles are non-negotiable. They don’t involve just our trekkers or our staff members. Our entire trek processes and policies are designed to favour the environment, even if it is often counterintuitive to our business.

Our No-compromise Sustainability promise

More than 30,000 trekkers trek with us every year. In addition, our outdoor learning division (InSoul) has participants from the who’s of the education organisation in India, from the IIMs to BITS to top international schools. More than 5,000 participants from these institutions trek with us annually. We do not spend a single rupee on advertising to get these participants. Our reputation precedes us.

We are India’s largest trekking organisation

We are pioneers in trekking. Since 2007, we have documented and brought out most of India’s famous treks: Roopkund, Rupin Pass, Buran Ghati, Kedarkantha, Kashmir Great Lakes, Tarsar Marsar, Phulara Ridge—the list goes on. In 2023-24 alone, we brought out nine new treks in Indian trekking. We know treks better than anyone. This comes directly from the reason why Indiahikes was born: to bring out trek information and enable trekkers to trek on their own. We believe everyone must trek.

Being pioneers of trekking in India

We focus on designing transformative experiences. Our trek leaders conduct thought-provoking exercises that help you reflect and contemplate. This impact stays with you for a long time. Trekkers return feeling energised, more confident, or developing abilities to deal with difficulties. Many have changed careers, rethought their core values, become more humble, shown gratitude to others, or started a new fitness journey. 

Our treks are transformative

5 Reasons Why Indiahikes

Trekking comes with uncertainty. Weather, terrain, and setbacks are part of the journey. We embrace them with resilience and openness—each challenge makes us stronger and more appreciative of nature's beauty.

We blend into nature, not the other way around. We avoid shouting, loud music, and noisy games. In silence, we hear birdsong, streams, and the wind—inviting peace, reflection, and a deeper connection with nature.

We protect the environment by minimising waste, reusing resources, and picking up litter. We carry eco-bags, segregate waste, and inspire others to preserve trails. Sustainable trekking ensures these mountains remain beautiful for future generations.

We carry our load as much as possible, manage our gear, and stay prepared for all situations. Self-sufficiency builds confidence, independence, and respect for fellow trekkers, support staff, and the trail itself.  

Trekking is not a solo act. We wait for each other, share burdens, and uplift teammates. By putting the group first, we build strong bonds and help everyone complete the trek joyfully.

We train well before our treks. This helps us walk longer, handle emergencies, and contribute to the team. Fitness ensures we are never a burden and always ready to help when needed.

Trekking in the Himalayas comes with challenges such as heavy rain, roadblocks, floods, landslides, and permit restrictions imposed by the government. These situations are not within Indiahikes' control. 

Before you register, please be prepared for the possibility that your trek might be called off due to these uncontrollable factors. In such cases, Indiahikes will make every effort to offer you a safe alternative trek. If that isn't possible, we will cancel your trek and issue a voucher for the trek fee in line with our standard cancellation policy.

However, if you would like to receive a full refund of your fee under such circumstances, opt for the Indiahikes Shield while registering. This shield grants you the option to receive a refund in case your trek is cancelled due to external reasons. 

Why you should opt for Indiahikes Shield 

Security concerns and government orders often lead to last-minute cancellations in Jammu & Kashmir. While we make all the preparations to run the trek, we cannot guarantee that the trek will run. If such a situation occurs, we will try to organize an alternate trek within J&K or Himachal Pradesh, wherever possible. If not, we will cancel the trek and our cancellation policy will apply.

Such circumstances are under nobody's control, but it's best to be well-prepared.  As trekkers ourselves, we understand the loss that you go through when such circumstances arise. To protect against such circumstances, we have the Indiahikes Shield - where you can avail a return of your full trek fee by paying a small additional charge.  

We suggest you opt for the Indiahikes Shield, which will protect your trek fee during such uncertainties. You will find the option during the registration process.

Why you must opt for Indiahikes Shield on Kashmir Treks

When you offload, a mule or porter will carry your belongings.

Offloading is for those with injuries, health issues or other limitations

Book via Your Profile after trek registration. 

We will provide you with a weather-resistant kit bag to transfer your belongings.

The kitbag will be carried by mules or porters.

You will not need a backpack if you're offloading. However, you will need a small day pack.

Find details about the Indiahikes Offloading Process here.

At Indiahikes, we strongly believe that children must trek. Children aged 14 and below qualify for a 30% trek fee scholarship. Check out this article to learn more.


For every ten adult members (aged 15 and above) of the group, we waive off the trek fee for one person. Indiahikes will reimburse the said trek fee after you complete your trek.

The Complete Guide To Neelkanth Mahadev Lake Trek


The Neelkanth Mahadev Lake trek is a hidden gem located deep in the interiors of magnificent Lahaul. The emerald-green alpine lake is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva.

Legend has it that this is the spot where Lord Neelkanth underwent Tapasya - an austere, deep meditation to control one’s mind, speech, thoughts, and bodily desires. 

Prepare for a trek that has it all – breathtaking valley views, mountain panoramas, and a stunning high-altitude lake. Experience exhilarating water crossings en route – at least five and counting! The contrasting landscapes of Kullu and Lahaul provide the perfect backdrop for this adventure.

When the Atal Tunnel opened in 2020, it suddenly made the Lahaul region accessible to trekkers. At a distance of just 4 hours from Manali,  Lahaul was an untouched destination waiting to be explored.

Intent on finding hidden trails, we sent out teams to explore Lahaul. We first documented and opened a gem of a trek in Miyar Valley. It was followed by the striking blue Ghepan Lake.

In July 2022, the team explored the relatively uncharted terrain leading up to Neelkanth Mahadev Lake. Heavy rains made the trek difficult to navigate, and the team was unable to complete the trek. A second exploration team went again in September 2022 and successfully completed the trek.

To navigate through the documentation easily, use this section of the Table of Contents. You will get all the information required to do the Neelkanth Mahadev trek on your own.

Permission, Stay, and other finer details about the trek

Highlights from Neelkanth Mahadev Trek

➤ Highlights from the Neelkanth Mahadev Lake Trek

1. Beautiful valley views within the first few minutes of the trek 

The trek starts from a picturesque village named Nainghar. At 11004 feet, Nainghar is already at a high altitude and an excellent preview of the thrilling walk and sights ahead. The first five minutes are a leisurely walk inside the sleepy village. Soon, the trail opens up into the vast Tappan valley, with its grand mountains and the first complete view of Thirot Nala. The walk continues into the valley, providing breath-taking mountain views every 100 metres until you reach the first campsite.

Along with this, the contrasting landscapes of Kullu and Lahaul are something to watch out for. The drive towards the trek's base village is a treat for the senses. Witness a stark contrast in scenery - from the lush greenery of Kullu Valley to the arid brown beauty of Lahaul Valley. This is where you transition from the Lesser Himalayan Range to the majestic Greater Himalayas.

The trail opening to the vast valley with grand mountain views. Picture by Kavinaya

Besides being a pilgrimage, the trail to Neelkanth Mahadev is every mountain lover’s paradise. It’s hard to miss the majestic peaks enroute – mountains so close that you could almost touch them. 

Nainghar Choti (19357 feet), from which the base village gets its name, is visible within the first half hour of walking. After this point in the hike, prepare yourself for breath-taking sights of other Great Mountain peaks: Saltu Da Par 1 & 2, (18265 & 19932 feet, respectively), Siri Parbat (18718 feet), Tentu (15555 feet), Shilling (17724 feet), and Neelkanth Peak (17533 feet). Additionally, watch out for views of the Gangstang glacier and peak. 

The grand views on the trek of Neelkanth Mahadev. Picture by Kavinaya

If you enjoy the thrill of a water crossing on a trek, the trek will not disappoint. The Neelkanth Mahadev Lake trek is famous for five stream crossings, with the Gadbad Nala being the most notorious. The water is icy cold since the streams originate from glaciers. Agility and good core strength are imperative to cross. Channel your inner mountain goat, nimble and quick on your feet, to hop onto boulders and cross successfully.

The excitement of crossing multiple stream. Picture by Kavinaya

Flowers on a trail are always a welcome sight for weary muscles and spirits. On this trek, they make the experience twice as special. The vibrant flowers offer a dramatic contrast to the legendary barren mountains of the Lahaul region. Over 17 kinds of flowers and their numerous subspecies grow abundantly along the waterways and on stretches of grasslands. Keep an eye out for pops of colour along the trail, often peeking out when you least expect it.

The valley is vibrant with many variety of flowers. Picture by Kavinaya

Quick Itinerary

Drive distance: 104.2 km | Duration: 6-7 hours
Altitude gain: 6,730 ft to 11,004 ft

A bus departs daily at 11:40 am from the Manali HRTC bus stand to Nainghar village. The bus fare from Manali to Nainghar is INR 250 for men. Women can avail of discounts on bus rates at INR 118. You will also find buses that go to the town of Keylong in Lahaul, from where there are connecting buses to Nainghar. 

Day 2: Trek from Nainghar to Aaliyas Campsite

Trek distance: 8.8 km | Duration: 8 hours
Altitude loss and gain: 11,004 ft to 13255 ft
Trek Type: Day 2 is a gradual climb from Nainghar village, with steep boulder sections before and after stream crossings. This day has three stream crossings. 

Day 3: Trek from Aaliyas Campsite and back to Aaliyas Campsite, via Neelkanth Mahadev Lake

Trek distance: 8.6 km | Duration: 7-8 hours
Altitude gain: 13,255 ft to 14,639 ft
Trek Type: Day 3 has challenging ascents through boulders during the first hour. Later on in the trail, you have two tricky stream crossings to navigate. The trail gradually ascends until the base of the mountain lake. The final stretch to reach the lake involves a steep climb.

Day 4: Trek from Aaliyas Campsite to Nainghar Village

Trek distance: 8.6 km | Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude loss: 13,225 ft to 11,004 ft
Trek Type: On Day 4, the path gradually winds downhill until the end of the second valley opening. You will encounter three stream crossings on the way to Nainghar. Take the marked trail going uphill through the grasslands for a scenic return journey.

Drive distance: 104.2 km | Duration: 6-7 hours
Altitude loss:  11,004 ft to 6,730 ft

Catch the same bus that comes to Nainghar from Manali every day. The bus leaves Nainghar at 6:30 am sharp. The bus fare for men is INR 250, and for women, it is INR 118.

Trail Information

Our aim is to ensure that trekkers are well-prepared before embarking on a Himalayan trek.  Knowledge is crucial to plan a safe, successful, and enjoyable trek. This section contains information about what to expect each day and how to prepare for the Neelkanth Mahadev Lake trek. We strongly recommend reading this section before setting out on your journey.

Drive distance: 104.2 km | Duration: 6-7 hours
Altitude: 6,730 ft to 11,004 ft

We recommend arriving a day early in Manali. Take a direct bus from the Manali HRTC bus stand to Nainghar the following day. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Keylong and switch to a connecting bus to reach Nainghar.

Journeying through this part of Himachal Pradesh is a highlight itself, taking you from the lush Kullu valley to the arid mountains of Lahaul. From Manali, the drive is through small and charming villages before reaching the 9 km Atal Tunnel - one of the world’s longest highway tunnels above 10,000 ft. Stark and arid landscapes of Lahaul appear as soon as you exit the tunnel. It is almost as if you have teleported to a different land. After all, you just drove through the vibrant greenery of Kullu. 

Setting foot into Lahaul region. Picture by Kavinaya

You travel along the Chandra River, past farms growing various vegetables, including broccoli, green peas, cabbage, lettuce, and cauliflower. On the drive to Lahaul, you will see striking rock formations as if meticulously carved into their shapes.

After 6 hours of driving, you arrive at a diversion that leads to Nainghar. Before arriving at this diversion, the bus will stop for a tea break in the village before Nainghar. Remember to stock up on any last-minute essentials here. Phone networks will not work beyond this point, except BSNL which works in Nainghar. 

Nainghar is a quaint village that is home to 240 people and a total count of nine houses. On arriving, you can’t miss the "Thirot Nala" – a stream that flows through this village and originates from glaciers near the Neelkanth Mahadev Lake.

Neelkanth Homestay in Nainghar is a good accommodation option, especially for solo travellers. Get a good night’s sleep before your trek the next morning.

Trek distance: 8.8 km | Duration: 8 hours
Altitude: 11,004 ft to 13255 ft

Trek gradient: Easy to Moderate. The trail combines gradual and steep ascents through boulders and grasslands. Today you will navigate three stream crossings and multiple smaller stream crossings.

Water sources: There are multiple freshwater sources from the mountains on the left of the trail. You will find water sources on the trail the entire day.

Start your trek early from the sleepy village of Nainghar - the last village in the Lahaul district. The first part of your trek is a walk through the entire village which takes all of five minutes.

The inital trail from Nainghar. Picture by Kavinaya

On exiting the village, you enter a vast valley and hear the tranquil sounds of the Thirot Nala flowing nearby. The valley comes up on you suddenly – a pleasant surprise that will stop you in your tracks and leave you awestruck. The expansive valley runs parallel to farms that belong to the residents. Continue walking along this stretch for 2 km.

Leaving behind the farms and following the Thirot Nala. Picture by Kavinaya

After a series of gradual ascents and descents, the trail leaves the farmlands behind and heads towards the Thirot stream. Although there is an alternative route from the hilltop, it is better suited for the return journey. 

The trail today takes you through boulders and involves a gradual incline. You can also expect some steep climbs after each stream crossing.

The mountain views today are breath-taking, with most peaks standing tall at 18000 ft and above. While crossing the streams, keep an eye out for the Himalayan Blue Sheep, also known as the Bharal. With a bit of luck, you might just spot them grazing on the other side of the stream.

Traversing the trail through boulders and stream crossings. Picture by Kavinaya

The path through the boulders is clear, ensuring you stay on the trail and don't miss a thing. As you approach the 4km mark, you will find yourself surrounded by a lush hill grassland and a small freshwater stream - the perfect spot to rest and take in the stunning valley views.

Don't forget to stop and smell the flowers. The trail is full of them, adding even more beauty to an already lovely day. Take your time, enjoy the journey, and soak up all the natural wonders that this day has to offer.

The Neelkanth Mahadev Lake trek is a hidden gem located deep in the interiors of magnificent Lahaul. The emerald-green alpine lake is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. A detailed guide with photos, trail map, GPX.

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