Bijli Mahadev Trek
The Best Weekend Trek near Manali for Beginners
TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy
TREK DURATION
2 days
Highest Altitude
8120 ft
AGE LIMIT
7 to 62 years
TOTAL TREK DISTANCE
10 kms
BASECAMP
Manali (Sarsai)
ACCOMMODATION TYPE
Tents
REGION
Himachal Pradesh
PICKUP DETAILS
Beas Bridge, Manali at 6 AM
DROPOFF DETAILS
Beas Bridge, Manali at 9 PM
The Best Weekend Trek near Manali for Beginners
The Bijli Mahadev trek is one of the oldest and most popular treks in Himachal Pradesh. Nestled in the Kullu Valley, it leads you to the revered Shiva temple perched atop Mathan Hill. Most trekkers take the well-known route from Chansari village — a short 3 km walk that can be comfortably done in half a day.
But at Indiahikes, we’ve discovered a lesser-known, far more rewarding route to Bijli Mahadev — a route that transforms this popular trail into a beautiful weekend trek. This alternative trail takes you through remote Himalayan villages and into some of the finest pine and deodar forests of the Kullu Valley. It allows you to experience the grandeur of this historical place in complete solitude, away from the usual crowds.
One of the main highlights of this trek is the forest section. Unlike narrow trails you often find on Himalayan treks, the forest trails here are wide, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the experience, walking between towering deodars and pines, with sunlight streaming in through the canopy. These wide trails also make it possible for us to camp in the middle of the forest, which is a rare delight on treks in this region.
Trekker Reviews
Priyadarshini Sethia
Age 24, Psychologist Bangalore
Jaideep Girish Koppikar
Age 56, Civil Engineer, Worley Services India Pvt Ltd, Mumbai
Madhuri Nanda
Director, South Asia- Rainforest Alliance
Kaarika Das
PhD Candidate, NIEPA
Jitendra Satiya and Shilpa Satiya
Partner at JK Graphics LLP
Usman Shariff
Amardeep Kaur
Works at Delhi Public School
Priyadarshini Sethia
Age 24, Psychologist Bangalore
Jaideep Girish Koppikar
Age 56, Civil Engineer, Worley Services India Pvt Ltd, Mumbai
Madhuri Nanda
Director, South Asia- Rainforest Alliance
Kaarika Das
PhD Candidate, NIEPA
Bijli Mahadev - Complete Trek Information
We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.
Use this section to learn about the Bijli Mahadev Trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.
Day 1
Arrive at the Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus at Manali. Drive to Kot Village, trek to Borsu Forest campsite
Pick-up time: 06:00 am | Pick-up location: Beas Bridge, Manali
Reporting time at the Campus if you are reaching on your own: 07:00 am
Drive Distance to Kot Village: 41 km | Drive Duration: 1.5 hours
Trek Distance: 2 km | Trek Duration: 3 hours
Indiahikes will arrange pick-up from Beas Bridge, Manali at 6 AM. But the cost of it has to be borne by trekkers. The cost for this pick-up is ₹300 (additional 5% GST) one-way per trekker. These are non-AC vehicles. Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.
Day 2
Trek from Borsu Forest campsite to Shildhar. Trek to Bijli Mahadev, and back to Shildhar. Reach Karate by 6 PM.
Trek Distance: 8 km | Trek Duration: 4 hours
Drive Distance: 38 km | Drive Duration: 1.5 hours
Drop-off time: 09:00 pm | Drop-off location: Beas Bridge, Manali
Indiahikes will arrange your drop off at Beas Bridge, Manali via Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus in Manali. But the cost of it has to be borne by trekkers. The cost for this drop-off is ₹300 (additional 5% GST) one-way per trekker. These are non-AC vehicles. Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.
IMPORTANT POINTS
➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo id and medical certificate for entry at forest checkpoints on the trek. The medical certificate along with the disclaimer form will be part of the Safety Check-in done by the trek leader when you arrive at the base camp.
➤Stay facility:
- Reach the exclusive Indiahikes Community Campus by 7 am on Day 1. The campus features the vibrant Urjino Café, Crosstrek Store, as well as dedicated breakout areas for relaxation and mingling. You will start your trek after a quick breakfast.
- On the Trek: Stay in our sturdy four-season tents (two trekkers per tent) built to withstand harsh weather and provide comfort in all conditions.
➤Cloakroom facility for excess luggage: We have a cloakroom facility at the base camp for excess luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave behind one piece of luggage at no charge. Anything beyond one piece of luggage is chargeable at Rs 500 per luggage. (The luggage could be a backpack/suitcase/duffel bag or anything similar.). Do not leave behind any valuables in the cloakroom.
Arrive at the Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus at Manali. Drive to Kot Village, trek to Borsu Forest campsite

Pick-up time: 06:00 am | Pick-up location: Beas Bridge, Manali
Reporting time at the Campus if you are reaching on your own: 07:00 am
Drive Distance to Kot Village: 41 km | Drive Duration: 1.5 hours
Trek Distance: 2 km | Trek Duration: 3 hours

Water sources: No water sources on the way. Carry 2 liters of water from the base.
The Indiahikes Manali Campus is about 15km away from Manali, located in a place called Sarsai. The campus is nestled amidst dreamy apple orchards near Manali.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at our campus. Hop into the vehicle and drive towards Kot village, which is about 40 km away. The journey will take approximately 1.5 hours.
As you drive to Kullu, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Beas River flowing vigorously down the valley. The road to Kullu is mostly downhill, winding through the mountains with apple trees lining both sides. The scenery constantly changes with each turn.
The Indiahikes Manali Campus is about 15km away from Manali, located in a place called Sarsai. The campus is nestled amidst dreamy apple orchards near Manali.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at our campus. Hop into the vehicle and drive towards Kot village, which is about 40 km away. The journey will take approximately 1.5 hours.
As you drive to Kullu, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Beas River flowing vigorously down the valley. The road to Kullu is mostly downhill, winding through the mountains with apple trees lining both sides. The scenery constantly changes with each turn.
Once you reach Kullu, the next leg of the journey involves a steep climb to Kot village, featuring numerous hairpin bends along the way. As you go further up the valley, you get to see a bird's-eye view of the entire Kullu valley. Just 4 km before Kot village, you start seeing the peaks of the Pir Panjal range.
Upon arriving at Kot village, the trek officially kicks off. Here, you get a glimpse of what a remote Himalayan village looks like.
At the village entrance, you will find the Mahuti Devta temple, marking the starting point of the trail. Initially, it's an ascent of about 350 m, leading to a flat trail with a few houses above. Keep following the trail, and after covering 500 m, you'll encounter another gradual ascent.
Continue for another kilometre, and you'll find yourself amidst Borsu Forest, surrounded by a wide trail and open grounds on both sides.
Borsu Forest is a treat for trekkers. It's one of the most picturesque forest settings you will ever experience, and the forest extends for a significant distance, providing a picturesque camping spot for the day. Set up your camp and enjoy the serene surroundings amidst nature.
Important note:
Indiahikes will arrange pick-up from Beas Bridge, Manali at 6 AM. But the cost of it has to be borne by trekkers. The cost for this pick-up is ₹300 (additional 5% GST) one-way per trekker. These are non-AC vehicles. Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.
Trek from Borsu Forest campsite to Shildhar. Sunset trek to Bijli Mahadev, and back to Shildhar. Reach Karate by 6 PM. Drive back to Beas Bridge in Manali by 9 PM.

Trek Distance: 8 km | Trek Duration: 4 hours
Drive Distance: 38 km | Drive Duration: 1.5 hours
Drop-off time: 09:00 pm | Drop-off location: Beas Bridge, Manali
Today's trek starts with a beautiful trail surrounded by deodar and pine trees. Trek through the forest for about 2.5 kilometres until the trail through the trees concludes.
At this point, a semi-forest trail begins, leading you through a mud road flanked by trees on both sides. This road is rarely used by vehicles, except during festivals.
As you walk further, you'll eventually reach a place called Shildhar. Take a break, drop your bags, have lunch, and explore the area.
In the evening, take a short stroll to visit the Bijli Mahadev Temple, located 1.5 kilometres from the campsite. Trekking to the top in the evening allows you to experience the beautiful sunset views from the summit, minus the crowd.
Today's trek starts with a beautiful trail surrounded by deodar and pine trees. Trek through the forest for about 2.5 kilometres until the trail through the trees concludes.
At this point, a semi-forest trail begins, leading you through a mud road flanked by trees on both sides. This road is rarely used by vehicles, except during festivals.
As you walk further, you'll eventually reach a place called Shildhar. Take a break, drop your bags, have lunch, and explore the area.
In the evening, take a short stroll to visit the Bijli Mahadev Temple, located 1.5 kilometres from the campsite. Trekking to the top in the evening allows you to experience the beautiful sunset views from the summit, minus the crowd.
It's a short 2 km descent from Shildhar to the Karate village. Drive back to Manali on the same day via the Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus.
The Bijli Mahadev Temple: This temple is renowned for its legendary trek around Manali. The Shiva Lingam inside the temple is believed to attract divine blessings in the form of lightning. According to the legend, after every lightning episode, the priest of the temple restores the Shiva Lingam inside using butter and sattoo, as it shatters into pieces each time. The temple is considered a protector of the valley, enduring the impact of every thunderstorm.
Important note:
Indiahikes will arrange your drop off at Beas Bridge, Manali via Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus in Manali. But the cost of it has to be borne by trekkers. The cost for this drop-off is ₹300 (additional 5% GST) one-way per trekker. These are non-AC vehicles. Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.
Bijli Mahadev in Autumn (September to mid-November)
Daytime temperatures range from 14°C to 18°C, and at night it can drop to 8°C to 10°C.
Presence of Snow: There is no snow during the autumn season.
Number of warm layers: 2 layers
Autumn is a great time to trek to Bijli Mahadev. People often associate autumn with fallen leaves and orange hues. However, it is still very green in autumn. It is only when November comes, the landscape starts turning orange.
This is the perfect time for photography because the landscapes are clean and the skies are clear. Villagers are busy getting ready for winter, storing grass for their cattle, and gathering wood, giving trekkers a glimpse into the locals' daily lives.
For those who love photography and want to see the mountains clearly, post-monsoon is the best time. The clean air and vibrant forest make it a truly scenic experience.
Bijli Mahadev in Winter (mid-November to February)
Daytime temperatures range from 12°C to 16°C, and at night, they can drop to 2°C to 3°C.
Presence of Snow: You may get snow in January and February
Number of warm layers: 4 layers
During the winter season, the Bijli Mahadev trek offers a peaceful and calm atmosphere. While the trail itself doesn't usually have snow, the surrounding mountains, such as the Pir Panjal range, may have a light dusting of snow, creating a beautiful winter scene.
The deodar forests remain green, providing a striking contrast against the snowy peaks. The winter air is refreshing and cool, making it a pleasant trek without the challenges of snow trekking.
This trek is perfect for those who want to experience winter trekking without facing harsh conditions. The crisp air and stunning snowy views make it a magical experience.
Bijli Mahadev in Spring (March to April)
Daytime temperatures range from 14°C to 18°C, and at night, it drops to 7°C to 10°C
Presence of snow: You might find snow during March but it will have melted by April
No. of warm layers required: 3-4 layers
Spring is a great time to explore the Bijli Mahadev trek. The trail goes through dense deodar forests, which are always lush green, but in spring, the forest feels alive and vibrant.
The distant snow-capped peaks of the Pir Panjal range provide stunning views. The forest is calm in spring, making it a peaceful trek.
The fresh green forests and clear views of snow-covered peaks make spring a magical time for this trek.
It’s perfect for beginners who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without extreme conditions.
Bijli Mahadev in Summer (May to June)
During the day, the temperatures range from 20°C to 24°C, while at night, it cools down to 12°C to 16°C.
Presence of snow: You will not find snow on the trail
No. of warm layers required: 2-3 layers
In the summer, the trek is warm but pleasant, especially once you enter the dense deodar forest.
The shade from the towering trees keeps the trail cool, making it comfortable for walking even in the warmer months.
This season also allows trekkers to experience vibrant village life and get a glimpse of mountain life. The cool forest trail provides relief from the summer heat and is the best time to experience mountain village life in action.
Bijli Mahadev in Monsoon (July to September)
Daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 22°C, with nighttime temperatures cooling to 12°C to 14°C.
Presence of snow: You will not find snow on the trail
No. of warm layers required: 2-3 layers (Will get colder if it rains)
During the monsoon months, the trail becomes a vibrant green paradise. The forest feels alive, and after the rains, everything is fresh and full of life.
However, the trail can be slippery and somewhat challenging due to the rain.
If you are fortunate, you might experience trekking under the clouds, with mist and fog adding a mystical touch to the surroundings. The deodar forests take on a magical appearance, and if the skies clear, you can still get great views of the Pir Panjal range.
The monsoon offers a unique trekking experience, with lush greenery, refreshing rains, and the chance to walk through misty, cloud-covered trails.
Is trekking in monsoon safe?
Yes, monsoon treks are usually safe. At Indiahikes, we only run those treks in monsoon that are safely navigable in the rains.
We keep a close watch on weather patterns and trail conditions every single day. In unforeseen situations we take necessary action — whether it’s rerouting, rescheduling, or even cancelling the trek if absolutely needed keeping your safety in mind. It is always our first priority.
That said, the monsoon brings its own moods — not just on the trails, but also on the way to get there. Landslides and roadblocks are more frequent during this season, and that can lead to traffic jams and delays en route to the base camp. It’s heartbreaking when you miss out on a beautiful experience simply because you got stuck on the way.
So we always recommend two things:
* Reach your pickup town a day earlier if possible. It gives you a buffer against unpredictable road conditions.
* Keep a buffer day after your trek before you plan your return journey. The mountains can often move at their own pace.
Trekking in the monsoon is magical. The forests are lush, the streams are full, and the trails come alive. But to truly enjoy it, give yourself a little breathing room. A little extra time can make all the difference between a stressful journey and a memorable adventure.
Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus, Manali, is the base camp of the Bijli Mahadev trek. It is situated in Sarsai, a quaint hamlet, about 15 km from the main bustling center of Manali.
You must reach the Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus, Manali, by 7 AM on Day-1 of your trek.
- You can choose to arrive at the campus by yourself.
- Alternatively, Indiahikes arranges for transport to the Jungle Line Campus from Manali. Indiahikes vehicles will pick you up from Beas Bridge in Manali at 6 AM on Day 1 of your trek.
In either case, we recommend that you reach Manali by Day-0, which is one day before Day-1 on the itinerary. For example, if the Day 1 of your trek is 25th August, book your tickets to reach Manali by 24th August. This gives you a buffer to account for unexpected delays and also allows you to rest well before starting your trek.
Here is a detailed guide to help you plan your travel to Manali:
Manali is easily accessible by road from Delhi and Chandigarh. However, the stretch beyond Mandi on NH-3 is prone to frequent landslides, often leading to delays. Keep this in mind while planning your journey.
The easiest way to reach the Manali is to:
- Fly to Delhi, take a direct bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Manali
- Fly to Chandigarh, take a direct bus from Chandigarh to Manali.
Flight options to reach Manali:
Pro Tip: If the flights to Chandigarh are too costly, fly to Delhi and take the overnight bus to Manali. Flying to Delhi may be a lot cheaper than getting to Chandigarh. However, If you notice the difference in air ticket prices between Delhi and Chandigarh is less than Rs 1000, then book for Chandigarh. The rest and shorter travel time are worth the difference.
How to reach the Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus in Sarsai
From Manali-
Sarsai is 15 km from the main center of Manali on the Kullu-Naggar-Manali Road. From the Sarsai Bus Stand, it is just a 10-15 minute walk to the Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus.
- By Auto or Private Cab: Fare ranges between Rs.500 to Rs.1000
From Delhi/Chandigarh-
Option 1: Get down at Kullu and take the Local Kullu-Manali Bus to Sarsai
- Take any bus to Manali from Delhi / Chandigarh
- Get down at Kullu Bus Stand instead of going all the way to Manali
- Local Buses run regularly from Kullu to Manali via Sarsai. Take this bus and get down at Sarsai
- From the Sarsai Bus Stand, it is just a 10-15 minute walk to the Indiahikes Campus
Option 2: Get down at 15-Mile and take a Cab to Sarsai
- Take any bus to Manali from Delhi / Chandigarh
- Get down at the 15 Mile Bus Stop instead of going all the way to Manali
- Hire a cab for the 12 km journey to Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus
Secret Travel Tip: From the 15-Mile Bus Stand, a wooden bridge over the Beas River leads into the Batahar Bihal Forest. The Indiahikes Campus is just a 3-km scenic walk through these deodar forests and apple orchards. If you are traveling in September or October, you’ll see apple trees laden with fruit. Before you take this hike, stop by The Cafe House for carrot cakes and trout fish grills.
Trekkers often ask us for hotel recommendations before or after their treks. Finding a good place using online listings can be tedious and tricky. So, through our network of trekkers and trek leaders, we have put together the best hotel recommendations in the major cities near our treks.
These are tried-and-tested recommendations—places we trust for comfort, cleanliness, and convenience. They’re also located near town centers and your pick-up points. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay or something a little more premium, you’ll find an option that suits your needs below.
Given below is a list of all the gear you need for your Bijli Mahadev Trek:
If you don’t have certain items, you can rent high-quality gear like trekking shoes, backpacks, and jackets from the Crosstrek Rental Store by Indiahikes. It costs less than Rs 2000 for the entire trek. We highly recommend renting gear since it is both more affordable and environmentally friendly.
Additionally, you’ll notice a small medical kit in the list. While our trek leaders carry medical kits with 17 medicines including life-saving drugs, you must bring your personal medical kit as well. We are already equipped with BP machines, oximeters and canned oxygen, but your medical kit is for quick access to you, especially while travelling.
Most importantly, you must digitally upload and carry mandatory documents to get government permits for the trek - your ID card, medical certificate, and disclaimer certificate. Keep them in a plastic bag to keep them safe in your backpack. There are no printing or photocopy facilities at the basecamp.
Here is a list of everything you need for your trek.
Shoes and backpack
- Trekking shoes with ankle support (Available on rent)
- Backpack with rain cover (Available on rent)
Warm Layers and Clothes
- Warm layers (Padded jackets available on rent) - 3 layers if you're trekking in spring, summer and monsoon (1 woollen sweater, 1 fleece, 1 padded jacket) - 4 layers if you're trekking in autumn (1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket) - 5 layers if you're trekking in winter (1 pair of thermals, 1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 3 Collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
- 2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)
Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Sun cap, preferably with flaps (Available for purchase)
- Waterproof gloves (Available for purchase)
- Waterproof socks (Highly recommended for trekking in snow. Available for purchase)
- Balaclava
- Woollen socks (2 pairs of Dry fit + 1 pair of Woollen)
- Headlamp (Available on rent)
- Trekking pole (Available on rent)
- Rain jacket + pants / poncho (Rain-jacket is available on rent)
Toiletries:
- Sunscreen
- Moisturiser
- Light towel
- Lip balm or vaseline
- Toilet paper (Wet wipes are strictly not allowed on our treks)
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)
Cutlery:
- Steel lunch box, spoon and a coffee mug (Lunch box is available on rent)
- Two water bottles or Hydration Pack (Water bottles are available on rent)
Once you run through this list, don't miss this ultimate guide on what gear to take on a trek. It contains tips on what gear to choose, where to get it from and how much to spend on it.
Our only tip: Keep your backpack light. Indiahikes practices low impact sustainable trekking in every aspect of the trek. Carrying your own personal backpack reduces your impact on the mountains by 20%. We expect all our trekkers to carry their own backpacks unless they have a justifiable reason not to.
PRO TIPS
Keep important documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet.
These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.
- Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.
- Treadmill Test: If your age is 58 and above, you’ll need to submit a Treadmill Test (not older than 12 months) within a week of completing your trek registration.
- Disclaimer certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part is a personal medical record. The second part is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate
- Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by Indiahikes – Download medical certificate
Note: Indiahikes has a panel of doctors who can help you with a medical certificate. They are available for online consultation. To get in touch with them, please write to trekmedicalcertificates@gmail.com. They will respond to you within 24 hours.
Consultation fee: Rs 300
Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader.
- Dolo 650 (5 tablets): This is paracetamol. It helps tackle fever and mild pain
- Avomine (4 tablets): Carry this especially if you are prone to motion sickness. Pop one-half hour before the start of your road journey.
- Combiflam (5 tablets): Take a combiflam if you get a sudden twist of the leg or a muscle strain. It is a pain reliever. It also contains paracetamol.
- Digene (4 tablets): Take it if you feel the food that you’ve taken is undigested. Alert your leader immediately. It could be a sign of AMS.
- ORS (6 packs): Consume a pack of ORS water at least once a day, usually mid-day when you are in the middle of your trek. It replenishes essential salts lost while trekking. Tip: It also makes cold water easier to drink.
- Knee Brace (optional): Carry this if you are prone to knee injury or have known issues of knee pain.
Our trek leaders carry a high altitude medical kit with them, which also consists of Life Saving Drugs. If there is an emergency, our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of the medicines listed here.
Pro Tip: We find that these medicines are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit.
Easy
Suitable for Beginners
You cover around 10 km over two trekking days. The trail is mostly flat, winding through rolling hills with a few gentle ascents and descents. It’s a great choice if you’re just starting out or want to introduce children to trekking in the Himalayas.
Terrain:
- On all two trekking days, you will get amidst rolling hills with occasional gradual ascents and descents.
- The terrain is not challenging as such. But the initial 10-15 minutes of ascent through Kot Village is steep and can test your mental preparedness.
Please note: If you are trekking with Indiahikes, our Trek Leaders and Technical Guides will provide you with all necessary guidance, support, and technical gear such as micro spikes, gaiters, helmets, ropes, etc., wherever required.
Weather:
- It may get sunny, especially during spring and summer. Appropriate layering with sun caps and with full-sleeved t-shirts or arm-sleeves is necessary.
- If it’s raining heavily, the trails might get slushy and uncomfortable to walk on.
Please Note:
- The safety of our trekkers is paramount. Our team, in conjunction with the Trek Leader, constantly monitors the weather conditions and makes informed decisions about proceeding with or aborting the trek. If the weather deteriorates, the team may need to turn back to ensure the safety of all trekkers.
- The Indiahikes team is equipped with medical kits, oxygen cylinders, and stretchers to handle any emergency.
Emergency Exits:
- Since it is just a 10 km trek, the roadheads on either end of it are quite close and easily accessible. Depending on where the emergency occurs and operational feasibility, your Trek Leader will decide on evacuating either via Kot Village or the Karate side.
- If the emergency occurs before reaching Borsu Campsite, Kot is the better option. If it happens deeper into the trek, close to Sildhar Campsite, then the Karate exit is closer.
Closest Hospital to the Bijli Mahadev Trek:
In case of an emergency during the trek, Mission Hospital in Manali is the closest hospital to Bijli Mahadev.
Address: Model Town, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh – 175131 Phone: +911902252379
Manu Diagnostics Centre and Hospital is another option. Address: Snowdrop Hotel building, Gompa Road, opposite Buddhist Monastery, Manali, Himachal Pradesh – 175131 Phone: +919418083587
The Indiahikes team will ensure your safety throughout the journey. However, we believe that safety is a shared responsibility. We need your active participation and attention to safety protocols to ensure a safe and successful trek.
Please inform your Trek Leader about any pre-existing medical conditions or health concerns, no matter how minor they may seem. This will enable us to take necessary precautions and ensure your safety throughout the trek.
We recommend walking/jogging/running as the best routine to get fit for any trek. It works on the same muscles you use while trekking—your calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. It also mimics your foot movement so you are better prepared for sudden twists and turns they may go through on uneven terrain.
It helps increase your stamina gradually if done consistently. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.
Fitness Target
To do the Bijli Mahadev trek comfortably, you must be able to walk, jog or run 5 km in under 50 minutes. This is the minimum recommended fitness level that you must aim for.
Trekking is a sport that primarily uses your lungs, core, calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. Being fit will help you enjoy the trek and will keep you safe.
To reach any fitness target, there are two things you must work on:
- Cardiovascular Endurance
- Muscle strength
If you are not currently active, follow the below schedule to get trek fit in 6 weeks!
A 6-Week Plan To Help You Get Trek-Fit For The Bijli Mahadev Trek
Pro Tip: Warming up and cooling down before and after your workout is important. Do not miss that.
| Note: If you are not a regular runner, do not start running all of a sudden.
Strength Training Schedule:
Workouts marked with (*) are optional. But completing them, will help you prepare better.
Note:
- Alternatives to 10 Standard Pushups = (2 x 10 = 20 knee pushups) = (2 x 20 = 40 wall pushups)
- Alternative to 20 full squats = (2 x 20 = 40 half squats)
- If you are not able to complete 1 full set of any plank, divide it into 2 halves and complete it with a rest break in between. For example: If you are not able to complete 30 seconds of a standard plank, divide it into 2 sets of 15 seconds each.
- After completing a few weeks of training, if you can progress, you may increase the number of sets or reps for desired results.
- Workouts marked with (*) are optional. But completing them, will help you prepare better.
Important note: We accept only running, jogging, or walking workout screenshots as fitness proof. Screenshots of cross-training workouts will not be considered valid. We've suggested cross-training options to help keep your fitness journey engaging and fun, allowing you to explore activities you enjoy and avoid inconsistency.
Note: Use apps like Nike and Strava to record your runs.
What happens if you are not fit:
- You do not enjoy the trek
- You struggle to be a part of the team because you’re slow.
- You miss out on a deep, transformative experience that Indiahikes specially designs for you.
The good part is it is not difficult. All you need to do is start following the fitness routine 6 to 8 weeks before your trek begins.
We are here to help you in this fitness journey. Just start slow and as long as you are committed and consistent with your routine, you are in for an unforgettable trek experience. :)
Yes, monsoon treks are usually safe. At Indiahikes, we only run those treks in monsoon that are safely navigable in the rains.
We keep a close watch on weather patterns and trail conditions every single day. In unforeseen situations we take necessary action — whether it’s rerouting, rescheduling, or even cancelling the trek if absolutely needed keeping your safety in mind. It is always our first priority.
That said, the monsoon brings its own moods — not just on the trails, but also on the way to get there. Landslides and roadblocks are more frequent during this season, and that can lead to traffic jams and delays en route to the base camp. It’s heartbreaking when you miss out on a beautiful experience simply because you got stuck on the way.
So we always recommend two things:
* Reach your pickup town a day earlier if possible. It gives you a buffer against unpredictable road conditions.
* Keep a buffer day after your trek before you plan your return journey. The mountains can often move at their own pace.
Trekking in the monsoon is magical. The forests are lush, the streams are full, and the trails come alive. But to truly enjoy it, give yourself a little breathing room. A little extra time can make all the difference between a stressful journey and a memorable adventure.
Yes, you do get mobile networks from all major service providers on the trail.
You won't find an ATM near the Indiahikes campus, but you will find ATMs of all major banks in Naggar, which is 4 km away. It's better to withdraw money from Manali before proceeding to the Indiahikes campus.
The only place you’ll find a plug to charge your phone or camera batteries will be at Indiahikes Manali Jungle Line Campus before starting the trek.
Therefore, use your electronic equipment wisely. Fully charge your batteries before leaving your hotel, and use your electronic equipment minimally.
Another thing to note is that cold temperatures drain the batteries faster. Having extra batteries or a power bank helps.
Yes, we have the option of leaving behind extra luggage at the basecamp. Every trekker is permitted to leave behind one piece of luggage at no charge. Anything beyond one piece of luggage is chargeable at Rs 500 per piece.
You can leave behind any kind of bag, including backpacks, suitcases, duffel bags, or kit bags. Ensure you leave no valuables (laptops, cash, or electronics) in this luggage.
The Bijli Mahadev trek is suitable for all age groups. This is because the terrain of the trek is relatively gentle and well-maintained, making it accessible for everyone. The trails are not overly strenuous, allowing everyone to enjoy the trek.
The Indiahikes trek route starts from Kot village and offers you the best of what a trek can offer - a glimpse into the culture of remote Himalayan villages, picturesque forest trails, camping in the forest and the sunset views from the summit. The popular route is a short 3 km trek that can be completed in half a day and offers only views from the top.
Yes, you can rent gear from our Crosstrek Store like any of our other Indiahikes treks.
Having more footprint through porters or mules on any trail isn’t good for the ecosystem. This is why, at Indiahikes, we do not encourage offloading. A trekker carries his/her own backpack in the true spirit of trekking.
But if — due to a medical condition — you are not able to carry your own backpack, you can offload your backpack. The cost of offloading on the Bijli Mahadev trek is Rs 1,200 for the entire trek. Find details about the offloading process here.
The Indiahikes Spirit of Trekking
We're always ready for adventure
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 embrace low-noise trekking
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
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 are self-sufficient
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.
We support each other
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 are fit and prepared
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.
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