Are you looking for a serene and secluded destination in the Himalayas where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and the thrill of adventure? If yes, then you should definitely visit Kareri Lake, a high altitude lake in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Kareri Lake is one of the most scenic and pristine lakes in the region, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and colorful meadows.
It is also a popular trekking destination for adventure enthusiasts who want to explore the Dhauladhar range and witness the stunning views of the lake and its surroundings.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Kareri Lake, including its location, history, significance, attractions, best time to visit, how to reach, and tips for visiting. By the end of this article, you will be convinced that Kareri Lake is a hidden gem in the Himalayas that you should not miss.
Location, History, and Significance of Kareri Lake
Kareri Lake is located at an altitude of about 2,950 meters (9,678 feet) above sea level in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Dharamshala and 22 kilometers (14 miles) from McLeod Ganj, two of the most popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. The lake is fed by the melting snow of the Dhauladhar range and drains into a stream that joins the Beas river.
The lake is named after Kareri village, which is the base camp for the trek to the lake. The village is inhabited by the Gaddi tribe, a nomadic pastoral community that lives in the highlands of Himachal Pradesh. The Gaddis revere Kareri Lake as a sacred place and believe that it is home to a local deity called Kali Mata. There is a small temple dedicated to Kali Mata on the banks of the lake, where pilgrims and trekkers offer prayers and seek blessings.
Kareri Lake is also known as Kumarwah Lake or Kali Kund Lake. The word Kumarwah means “son of water” in the local dialect, while Kali Kund means “black pond”. These names reflect the color and clarity of the lake’s water, which changes from blue to green to black depending on the season and weather conditions. The lake is famous for its crystal clear water that allows one to see the bottom of the lake even at a depth of 10 meters (33 feet).
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Attractions at Kareri Lake
Kareri Lake offers a variety of attractions for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Some of the things to see and do at Kareri Lake are:
Camping:
Camping at Kareri Lake is one of the best ways to experience its beauty and tranquility. There are several camping sites near the lake where one can pitch a tent and enjoy the views of the lake and the mountains. Camping at Kareri Lake also gives one an opportunity to witness the sunrise and sunset over the lake, which are spectacular sights to behold.
Trekking:
Trekking to Kareri Lake is one of the most rewarding and exhilarating activities that one can do in Himachal Pradesh. The trek starts from Kareri village and passes through dense forests, rocky terrains, steep ascents, and grassy meadows. The trek offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar range and its peaks such as Minkiani Pass, Baleni Pass, Indrahar Pass, etc. The trek also crosses several streams and bridges along the way. The trek to Kareri Lake takes about 4 to 5 hours one way and can be done by beginners as well as experienced trekkers.
Visiting Kali Mata Temple:
Visiting Kali Mata Temple is another attraction at Kareri Lake that one should not miss. The temple is a small stone structure that houses an idol of Kali Mata, a Hindu goddess associated with power and destruction. The temple is believed to be very old and has a lot of religious significance for the locals. The temple also offers a panoramic view of the lake and its surroundings.
Exploring Caves:
Exploring caves near Kareri Lake is another fun activity that one can do at Kareri Lake. There are several caves around the lake that are formed by natural erosion or human intervention. Some of these caves are used by shepherds as shelters or by trekkers as resting places. Some of these caves are also believed to be haunted by spirits or animals. Exploring these caves can be an adventurous and thrilling experience for those who love mystery and excitement.
Best Time to Visit Kareri Lake
Kareri Lake can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit Kareri Lake depends on one’s preference and purpose. The lake has different charms and challenges in different seasons, which are:
Summer (April to June):
Summer is the best time to visit Kareri Lake for those who want to enjoy the pleasant weather and the clear views of the lake and the mountains. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) and the water level is high due to the melting snow. The lake is also full of life and color, with various flowers and birds adding to its beauty.
The trekking route is also easy and comfortable, with no snow or rain to hinder the progress. However, summer is also the peak season for tourists, so one may have to face crowds and higher prices at Kareri Lake.
Monsoon (July to September):
Monsoon is the best time to visit Kareri Lake for those who want to witness the dramatic and dynamic changes in the lake and its surroundings. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) and the water level is low due to the evaporation. The lake changes its color from blue to green to black, depending on the cloud cover and the sunlight. The lake is also surrounded by mist and fog, creating a mystical and mysterious atmosphere. The trekking route is also challenging and adventurous, with slippery paths, muddy trails, and frequent rainfalls. However, monsoon is also the off-season for tourists, so one may have to face less crowds and lower prices at Kareri Lake.
Winter (October to March):
Winter is the best time to visit Kareri Lake for those who want to experience the extreme and enchanting aspects of the lake and its surroundings. The temperature ranges from -5°C to 10°C (23°F to 50°F) and the water level is frozen due to the snowfall. The lake becomes a sheet of ice that reflects the sunlight and the moonlight.
The lake is also covered by snow and ice, creating a winter wonderland. The trekking route is also difficult and dangerous, with snow-covered paths, icy bridges, and freezing winds. However, winter is also the best time for photography, as one can capture the stunning contrast between the white snow and the dark water at Kareri Lake.
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How to Reach Kareri Lake
Kareri Lake can be reached by different modes of transport, such as air, rail, road, and trek. Here are some of the ways to reach Kareri Lake from different points of origin:
By Air:
The nearest airport to Kareri Lake is Gaggal Airport in Dharamshala, which is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) away. One can take a flight from Delhi or Chandigarh to Gaggal Airport and then hire a taxi or a bus from there to Kareri village. The taxi fare may range from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 1,500 ($14 to $21), while the bus fare may range from Rs. 50 to Rs. 100 ($0.7 to $1.4).
By Rail:
The nearest railway station to Kareri Lake is Pathankot Railway Station in Punjab, which is about 90 kilometers (56 miles) away. One can take a train from Delhi or Chandigarh to Pathankot Railway Station and then hire a taxi or a bus from there to Kareri village. The taxi fare may range from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 2,500 ($28 to $35), while the bus fare may range from Rs. 100 to Rs. 200 ($1.4 to $2.8).
By Road:
The nearest town to Kareri Lake is Dharamshala, which is well connected by road with other cities in Himachal Pradesh and neighboring states. One can take a bus or a car from Dharamshala to Ghera village, which is about 18 kilometers (11 miles) away. From Ghera village, one can either trek or hire a taxi or a jeep to Kareri village, which is another 22 kilometers (14 miles) away. The trekking route from Ghera village to Kareri village passes through Sari village and follows a dirt road along a stream.
By Trek:
The most common and preferred way to reach Kareri Lake is by trekking from Kareri village, which is the base camp for the trek. The trekking route from Kareri village to Kareri Lake passes through forests of oak, pine, rhododendron, etc., crosses several streams and bridges, ascends steep slopes, and traverses grassy meadows.
The trekking route offers amazing views of the Dhauladhar range and its peaks such as Minkiani Pass, Baleni Pass, Indrahar Pass etc., as well as glimpses of wildlife such as birds, monkeys etc.
Tips for Visiting Kareri Lake
Here are some tips and suggestions for travelers who want to visit Kareri Lake and have a memorable and safe experience:
- Carry proper equipment and clothing for the trek, such as trekking shoes, backpack, sleeping bag, tent, torch, water bottle, snacks, etc. You can also rent some of these items from Kareri village or Dharamshala.
- Hire a guide or a porter from Kareri village or Dharamshala, who can help you with the route, the camping sites, the local culture, and the emergency situations. You can also join a group of trekkers or a tour operator who organizes treks to Kareri Lake.
- Book your accommodation and transportation in advance, especially during the peak season (April to June), as Kareri Lake is a popular destination and may get crowded and expensive. You can also opt for homestays or guesthouses in Kareri village or nearby villages, where you can experience the hospitality and lifestyle of the Gaddi tribe.
- Check the weather forecast and the trail conditions before starting the trek, as Kareri Lake is prone to sudden changes in weather and terrain. Avoid trekking during heavy rain or snowfall, as it may increase the risk of landslides, avalanches, or floods.
- Respect the nature and the culture of Kareri Lake and its surroundings. Do not litter, pollute, or damage the lake or the forest. Do not disturb or harm the wildlife or the plants. Do not make noise or play loud music at the lake or the camping sites. Do not enter or touch the Kali Mata Temple without permission or proper attire.
Kareri Lake is a hidden gem in the Himalayas that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for trekking and camping lovers. It is a place where you can witness the beauty and diversity of nature, the culture and history of the Gaddi tribe, and the spirituality and mysticism of Kali Mata. It is a place where you can challenge yourself and discover yourself.
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