Kareri Lake Himachal Pradesh
A serene high-altitude glacial lake in Himachal Pradesh, perfect for a moderate trek through pine forests and alpine meadows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for trekking
Kareri Lake Himachal Pradesh
Best Time
Pleasant weather for trekking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene high-altitude glacial lake in Himachal Pradesh, perfect for a moderate trek through pine forests and alpine meadows.
"The lake was frozen and looked absolutely stunning. A peaceful, surreal experience both at sunset and sunrise."
Start Trek from Kareri Village
Begin your trek from Nauli/Kareri village for the most direct route. It's a 10-11 km journey.
Consider a Guide
Highly recommended for beginners for safety and ease, though possible without one.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Glacial Lake
Kareri Lake
A stunning high-altitude glacial lake, serene and breathtaking, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Shiva Temple Overlook
Hilltop overlooking the lake
A sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shiva offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding Dhauladhar range.
Scenic Forest Trails
Trek route to Kareri Lake
Trek through lush pine forests, alpine meadows, and charming villages, a feast for nature lovers.
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Planning Your Visit
Trek Smart: Gear Up for Kareri Lake
Connectivity & Cash: Stay Prepared
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Start Trek from Kareri Village
Begin your trek from Nauli/Kareri village for the most direct route. It's a 10-11 km journey.
Consider a Guide
Highly recommended for beginners for safety and ease, though possible without one.
Carry Cash
No mobile signals at the lake; carry enough cash for expenses.
Layer Your Clothing
Temperatures drop significantly after sunset; pack warm layers.
Tips
from all over the internet
Start Trek from Kareri Village
Begin your trek from Nauli/Kareri village for the most direct route. It's a 10-11 km journey.
Consider a Guide
Highly recommended for beginners for safety and ease, though possible without one.
Carry Cash
No mobile signals at the lake; carry enough cash for expenses.
Layer Your Clothing
Temperatures drop significantly after sunset; pack warm layers.
Book Camping Locally
Local operators like CampingKar are super helpful for camping arrangements.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Kareri Lake's serene beauty and the rewarding trek, calling it a must-do experience near Dharamshala. The frozen lake in winter and the stunning night skies are frequently highlighted. Some mention the trek's stair-like sections and the lack of mobile signals as minor drawbacks.
"Calm & beautiful place to camp.. 🏕️
No signals as of oct 2025, only 4G at specific spot. Hold cash as much as possible"
David Puli
"Visited in December. We started the trek at 12 PM and reached by 5 PM, just in time for a magical sunset. The lake was frozen and looked absolutely stunning. A peaceful, surreal experience both at sunset and sunrise. Truly unforgettable!"
Akash Sharma
"good site for treckking, it was my first trekking experience and it was nice , we reached our destination within 6 hrs , didn't get altitude sickness ( i was lucky) . i was feeling cold in the evening as temperature changed suddenly after sunset.
night view of sky was mesmerizing as whole sky filled with lot of stars ( we dont see that number of stars in delhi due to bad wheather)"
Sanjeev kumar gupta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Dharamshala, take a taxi to Kareri Village (approx. 27 km), which is the starting point for the trek.
The trek distance from McLeodganj to Kareri Lake is approximately 10-11 km.
If you are very fit, it can be done as a long day hike, but an overnight stay is recommended to fully experience the place.
The trek typically starts from Kareri Village or Nauli village. Taxis are readily available from Dharamshala to reach these villages.
While direct public transport might be limited, you can take local buses towards Dharamshala and then arrange for a taxi or shared jeep to Kareri Village.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is generally no specific entry fee for Kareri Lake itself, but camping and trekking permits might be applicable depending on local regulations or organized tours.
The trek is accessible year-round, but the best times are spring and autumn. The lake can be frozen from December to March.
Yes, booking your trek and camping in advance through local operators like CampingKar or The Hosteller is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Visitors are encouraged to maintain the pristine environment and avoid littering. Respect local customs and the natural surroundings.
Yes, it is possible to trek without a guide, but it's highly recommended for beginners for safety and navigation.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Kareri Lake is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,934 meters (9,626 feet) above sea level.
The trek involves varied terrain, including lush forests, alpine meadows, rivers, and many stairs.
While many do trek alone, it's advisable to inform someone of your plans and consider going with a companion or a guide for added safety, especially if you're new to trekking.
Reaching by late afternoon allows for a magical sunset experience. Sunrise also offers a serene and beautiful view.
Basic camping facilities are available through local operators. It's advisable to carry your own essentials and be prepared for a remote experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited food options, primarily at campsites or through trekking package providers. It's best to carry snacks and water.
Camping packages usually include simple, hearty meals like dal, rice, roti, and local Himachali dishes.
If you are camping independently, you can carry your own cooking supplies, but ensure you follow Leave No Trace principles.
Yes, most local food providers can cater to vegetarian preferences.
Carry energy bars, nuts, dried fruits, and ready-to-eat meals for the trek and your stay.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself, the Shiva temple overlooking it, the surrounding Dhauladhar mountains, and the scenic forest trails offer incredible photo opportunities.
Golden hours during sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can capture mountain details. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of any religious sites and local sentiments.
Yes, due to minimal light pollution, the night sky is incredibly clear, offering stunning opportunities for astrophotography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a guided trek for added safety and to ensure a smoother experience for everyone. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure children have comfortable, sturdy footwear. The camping experience by the lake can be a highlight for kids, offering a chance to connect with nature. 💰 Budget Travelers
Camping is the most economical accommodation; compare prices from local operators or hostels like Zostel. Carrying your own snacks and basic cooking supplies can also save money on food expenses. 🧘 Solo Travelers
The opportunity to witness mesmerizing night skies and enjoy the quiet beauty of the lake is a significant draw for those seeking introspection. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Kareri Lake Trek Experience
+1 As you ascend, the landscape opens up to alpine meadows and offers glimpses of the majestic Dhauladhar range. The trek is punctuated by charming villages and the soothing sound of rivers, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. Many trekkers describe the path as having 'so many stairs,' indicating a consistent incline that requires good stamina.
+1While the trek can be done independently, especially by experienced hikers, hiring a local guide is strongly advised for beginners. Guides not only ensure safety and navigation but also provide insights into the local culture and environment.
Planning your trek during May to June or September to November offers pleasant weather conditions. However, visiting in December to March presents a unique opportunity to see the lake frozen, creating a surreal and unforgettable landscape. Planning Your Kareri Lake Adventure
Some tour operators also offer packages from McLeodganj that include transport. It's crucial to note that mobile network connectivity is virtually non-existent at the lake itself, so be prepared to be offline. Accommodation options primarily revolve around camping. Local operators like CampingKar and hostels such as The Hosteller and Zostel Kareri offer organized camping experiences, often including meals and basic amenities.
+2 Booking these in advance is advisable, especially during peak trekking seasons. If you prefer to trek independently, ensure you have all necessary camping gear. Remember that temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, even in warmer months, so packing warm layers is a must. The Shiva Temple situated on a hilltop overlooking the lake is a significant landmark and offers breathtaking panoramic views.
For photographers, the lake, the surrounding mountains, and the star-filled night sky provide exceptional opportunities. 
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