We Travel Not to Escape Life, But for Life Not to Escape Us. -Anonymous.
Himachal Pradesh Is a state in northern India and is in the western Himalayas. It is home to the Parvati valley.Parvati valley attracts tourists from all over the world.This valley is home to Kheerganga which is situated at 2690 M.
The trek to Kheerganga can simply be described as an incredibly refreshing trek with some of the most exhilarating scenic views. The best time of the year to go to kheerganga would be between May to November. After November trekking to kheerganga is not advisable as the path is covered with snow and the rocs become slippery. Also the place is not permanently inhabited.
Kheerganga is a place of mythological and religious significance for Hindus. Legend has it that Lord Shiva and Godess Parvatis son, Kartikeya Remained there in ‘Samadhi’ for thousands of years.
The trek to Kheerganga starts at Barshani, which is the last motor able point. Hiring a guide/porter is an option but the trek can be done without external help, as it’s a fairly simple route.
The route to Kheerganga is about 12-14 kms with comfortable terrain. The trek offers drastic changes in Vegetation and views.
The terrain that needs to be tackled by foot alters with comfortable flat lands and a few parts with steep climbing, but be rest assured that it’s not a difficult task.
The one common stop on this trek comes at Rudra-nag.
Rudra-nag gets its name from the waterfall present there that resembles a snake’s head.
Even at a comfortable pace with adequate stops to rest and procure refreshment on the way we completed the trek in between 4-5 hours.
As you come towards the end of the trek walking through the thick pine forest and reach atop the whole view and environment changes drastically and opens up into a flatland where you can see tents and animals grazing.
After the climb you can feel free to reward yourself with a nice dip in the hot spring to rejuvenate yourself. This hot spring at kheerganga is incredibly important for Sikhs and Hindus, as it is believed that the spring has sacred healing properties. This probably has something to do with the high Sulphur content in the water. There are separate sections for men and women to bathe.
There is also a temple right above the spring dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
There are plenty of places to stay and they aren’t expensive, from Rs.50-Rs300 and they provide basic amenities, camping is also an option here and you can find all that you need. The food is good and they cater to multiple cuisines as kheerganga has off late become a tourist hot spot especially Israelis, so don’t be surprised if you receive menus written in Hebrew.
At Kheerganga you can indulge in landscape photography, taking leisurely walks in the forest, camping, visit the rainbow gathering a small walk away and just relax and watch the sunset and bask in these wonderful scenic experiences.
It is more than certain that if you make this trip once, you will not be able to fight the urge to return for a second time. Words cannot express the Beauty, the Peace, the Serenity on experiences at Kheerganga.
