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Lam Dal Lake Trek

From ₹12,500.00
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The Lam Dal Lake Trek is a sacred and scenic journey through the Dhauladhar Himalayas, taking you to the largest glacial lake in the region. Over 4 days, the trail winds through oak and rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and rocky high passes, with highlights including Kareri Lake, Minkiani Pass, Kali Kund, and the holy Lam Dal Lake (3,960 m). A perfect mix of natural beauty, adventure, and spirituality, this trek is ideal for trekkers seeking an offbeat Himalayan experience.

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Keywords Best time to do Lam Dal Lake trek , How to reach Lam Dal Lake from Dharamshala , Lam Dal Lake Trek , Lam Dal Lake Trek Dharamshala , Lam Dal Lake Trek Itinerary , Lam Dal Lake Trek Package , Lam Dal Trek Himachal
Trip code WT-CODE 1520
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The Lam Dal Lake Trek is one of the most rewarding high-altitude treks in the Dhauladhar range of Himachal Pradesh. Known as the largest and holiest glacial lake in the region, Lam Dal (3,960 m) is deeply revered by locals and pilgrims who visit every year for a sacred dip.

This  3 nights / 4 days trek begins from Kareri Village near Dharamshala and takes you through thick oak and rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and rocky ridges. The trail passes the beautiful Kareri Lake, ascends over Minkiani Pass (~4,320 m), and descends to the mystical Lam Dal Lake. Along the way, trekkers also come across smaller sacred lakes like Kali Kund, adding to the spiritual charm of the journey.

Offering stunning views of Indrahar Pass, Baleni Pass, and the snow-clad Dhauladhar peaks, this trek is ideal for those seeking both adventure and a deeper cultural connection with the Himalayas. Though moderately challenging, the trek rewards you with pristine natural beauty, unique Himalayan traditions, and the unforgettable sight of Lam Dal’s glacial basin.

Day 1: Drive from Dharamshala to Kareri Village (1,900 m) → Trek through oak & rhododendron forests → Camp at Kareri Lake (2,934 m).

Day 2: Steep ascent to Minkiani Pass (~4,320 m) → Descend towards Lam Dal Lake (3,800–4,100 m), passing Kali Kund & other sacred lakes.

Day 3: Morning exploration of Lam Dal’s glacial basin → Return trek to Kareri Lake.

Day 4: Descend through alpine meadows & forests to Kareri Village → Drive back to McLeod Ganj/Dharamshala.

Itineraries

Day 01:

Dharamshala – Kareri Village (1,900 m) – Trek to Kareri Lake (2,934 m)

  • Early morning drive from Dharamshala to Kareri Village (approx. 2 hrs).

  • Begin the trek along the scenic trail that follows the Kareri Nallah (stream).

  • Walk through dense oak and rhododendron forests, crossing wooden bridges and passing traditional Gaddi shepherd huts.

  • The trail gradually ascends as the forest gives way to open meadows and high ridges.

  • By afternoon, reach the crystal-clear Kareri Lake, a glacial marvel surrounded by alpine pastures and rocky cliffs.

  • Set up camp near the lakeside and enjoy the serene Himalayan landscape.

📍 Trek Distance: ~13 km
⏱️ Duration: 6–7 hrs
🏕️ Overnight Stay: Tents at Kareri Lake

Day 02:

Kareri Lake – Minkiani Pass (~4,320 m) – Lam Dal Lake (3,800–4,100 m)

  • Early start for a long and challenging day.

  • Steep ascent on rocky and boulder-strewn terrain towards Minkiani Pass.

  • Stunning views of the Dhauladhar peaks from the top of the pass.

  • From here, descend towards the sacred Lam Dal Lake, the largest glacial lake in the Dhauladhar range.

  • On the way, pass by smaller glacial lakes including Kali Kund and others revered by local devotees.

  • Camp overnight near Lam Dal.

  • Trek Distance: ~15 km | Duration: 8–9 hrs

  • Overnight stay in tents at Lam Dal Lake.

Day 03:

Lam Dal Lake Exploration – Return Trek to Kareri Lake

  • Morning exploration around the glacial basin of Lam Dal.

  • The lake is surrounded by rugged cliffs and offers a truly mystical atmosphere.

  • After breakfast, retrace your steps back towards Kareri Lake.

  • Enjoy views of alpine meadows, mountain streams, and high ridges.

  • Trek Distance: ~15 km | Duration: 7–8 hrs

  • Overnight stay in tents at Kareri Lake.

Day 04:

Kareri Lake – Kareri Village – Drive to McLeod Ganj

  • Begin descent along the same scenic trail through oak and pine forests.

  • Reach Kareri Village by afternoon.

  • Drive back to McLeod Ganj/Dharamshala.

  • Trek ends with memorable experiences.

  • Trek Distance: ~13 km | Duration: 5–6 hrs

  • Drive: 2 hrs

  • Overnight stay in McLeod Ganj (optional) or departure.

✅ Cost Includes

  • Accommodation in tents during the trek (twin/triple sharing).
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, evening tea, dinner – vegetarian with egg options).
  • Services of an experienced trek leader, local guide & support staff.
  • Camping equipment: tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, kitchen gear.
  • Forest permits, camping fees & entry charges.
  • Transportation: Dharamshala – Kareri Village – Dharamshala (start and end point).
  • Basic first-aid kit carried by trek leader.

❌ Cost Excludes

  • Any accommodation or meals in Dharamshala/McLeod Ganj before or after the trek.
  • Personal expenses like laundry, phone calls, tips, snacks, bottled water.
  • Porter/mule service for carrying personal luggage (available at extra cost).
  • Travel insurance, medical expenses, evacuation charges.
  • Any kind of personal trekking gear/clothing (jackets, shoes, poles, etc.).
  • Anything not specifically mentioned in the inclusions.
Lam Dal Lake surrounded by rocky Himalayan mountains in the Dhauladhar range, Himachal Pradesh.
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Lam Dal Lake is situated in the Dhauladhar range of Himachal Pradesh, near Dharamshala. At about 3,960 m, it is the largest and holiest glacial lake in the region.

This trek is rated moderate to challenging. Trekkers should be physically fit as the route includes steep ascents, rocky terrain, and high-altitude passes like Minkiani Pass (~4,220 m).

The best time is June to October. During this period, the trail is accessible, meadows are green, and the lake is in full beauty. Monsoon months (July–August) bring heavy rain, so September is often ideal.

Prior experience of at least one high-altitude trek is recommended. Beginners with good fitness levels can attempt it but should be prepared for long trekking hours (6–9 hrs per day).

The trek covers around 55–60 km in 4 days of walking, depending on the route taken and detours to nearby lakes.

Yes, trekkers camp near Lam Dal Lake or at designated meadows close by. Camping gear is provided in the package.

Mobile networks are generally available till Kareri Village. Beyond that, connectivity is very limited or unavailable.

Accommodation is in tents (twin/triple sharing) during the trek. In Dharamshala/McLeod Ganj, you can choose hotels/guesthouses before and after the trek (not included in the trek cost).

Warm clothes, sturdy trekking shoes, a backpack with rain cover, personal medicines, water bottle, torch/headlamp, and trekking poles. A detailed packing list will be shared after booking.

The trek starts from Kareri Village, which is a 2-hour drive from Dharamshala. Dharamshala is well connected by road, and the nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (25 km), while the nearest railway station is Pathankot (90 km).

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