Beas Kund Trek

Guide

Beas Kund Trek

The Beas River begins its journey from the high mountains of Himachal Pradesh, and the Beas Kund Trek takes you close to its glacial source. Starting from Dhundi near Manali, the trail passes through green meadows, mountain streams and rugged terrain before reaching the tranquil Beas Kund. Along the way, you get sweeping views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, making this a rewarding short trek for those looking to experience the high mountains without a long trekking expedition.

Quick Facts

Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Starting point: Dhundi, near Solang Valley
Maximum altitude: Around 3,690–3,893 m (12,100–12,772 ft)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Duration: 3 days
Best time: May to June and September to October

Route: Dhundi → Bakarthach → Beas Kund → Bakarthach → Dhundi

Day 1: Manali → Solang Valley → Dhundi → Bakarthach

  • Begin your journey from Manali and drive towards Solang Valley, continuing to Dhundi, the usual starting point of the trek.
  • From Dhundi, start walking along the valley, following the Beas River and gradually leaving the lower forested areas behind.
  • Cross small streams and walk through open meadows as the surrounding mountains begin to appear more prominently.
  • After around 4–5 km, reach Bakarthach, a beautiful high-altitude meadow where you camp for the night.

Stay: Overnight camping at Bakarthach in tents.
Food: Meals are usually provided by the trek operator, with simple hot food and tea/snacks at camp.

Image Credit: Pexels

Day 2: Bakarthach → Beas Kund → Bakarthach

  • Start early after breakfast and leave Bakarthach for the day's main destination, Beas Kund.
  • The trail becomes more rugged as you climb, with rocky sections, boulders and small stream crossings.
  • Keep your pace slow and steady while enjoying views of Friendship Peak, Shitidhar and Hanuman Tibba along the way.
  • As you climb higher, the landscape opens up and the glacial terrain becomes more prominent.
  • Finally, reach Beas Kund, the small glacial lake traditionally considered the source of the Beas River.
  • Spend some time taking in the mountain scenery before retracing your steps to Bakarthach.

Stay: Overnight at the Bakarthach campsite.
Food: Have breakfast at camp, carry a packed lunch for the trail and return for evening tea and dinner.

Day 3: Bakarthach → Dhundi → Solang Valley → Manali

  • After breakfast, begin your descent towards Dhundi along the same trail.
  • Walk through the meadows and past the streams you crossed on the way up.
  • Take your time on the rocky downhill sections instead of rushing, especially if your legs are tired.
  • Once you reach Dhundi, the trekking section comes to an end.
  • Drive back through Solang Valley and continue towards Manali, marking the end of your Beas Kund adventure.

Stay: Return to your accommodation in Manali.
Food: Have breakfast at the campsite and arrange lunch either as a packed meal or after reaching Manali.

Best Time to Do the Beas Kund Trek

The best months for the trek are generally May to June and September to October. The monsoon can make the trail wet and slippery, while winter brings heavy snow and much colder conditions.

Difficulty Level

Beas Kund is generally considered an easy-to-moderate trek. The trail is manageable for beginners with reasonable fitness, but the increasing altitude, rocky sections and stream crossings require steady walking and preparation.

Image Credit: Wikimedia

Important Tips

  1. Start early and avoid trekking after dark.
  2. Keep yourself hydrated throughout the trek.
  3. Follow your trek leader during stream crossings and difficult sections.
  4. Keep your rain gear easily accessible.
  5. Maintain a slow and steady pace at higher altitudes.
  6. Carry personal snacks as there are no regular shops on the higher trail.
  7. Check the weather and trail conditions before starting your trek.
  8. Carry your waste back and leave the mountain clean.

Conclusion

The Beas Kund Trek takes you from the green valleys around Manali to a striking high-altitude landscape of meadows, rocks, glaciers and towering peaks. The journey may be short, but reaching the glacial Beas Kund makes it a memorable Himalayan experience.