Overview of Kareri Lake in Kangra
The Kareri Lake is a stunning and picturesque lake that looks like it could have been taken straight out of a Hollywood production. This freshwater lake, also known as Kumarwah Lake, is located in the Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh, 9 kilometers to the northwest of Dharamshala, and is located south of the Dhauladhar mountain range. The Kareri Lake, which is situated at a height of 2,934 meters above sea level and is a significant tourist attraction, is also a well-liked trekking location in the Dhauladhar range.
Due to the large pasturelands that Kareri Lake contains, it is mostly visited by the Gujjars and Gaddis who live in the nearby villages. The lake also has lovely clusters of dense conifers and various kinds of colorful perennial flowers.
If you love trekking then you can also see Triund trek.
This high-altitude lake receives its water from snowmelt from the Dhauladhar range, and the pure water from the Kareri Lake then drains away as the Nyund stream. Since snowmelt supplies the lake’s water supply and the lake is relatively shallow, both the water’s visibility and, in most locations, the lake bed can be seen. While the majority of travelers who come to Himachal Pradesh on backpacks are seen swarming to the Triund or Indrahar Pass circuit, a quick hike to the Kareri Lake makes for a more opulent and peaceful experience. The lake seems to be especially alluring from December to March when it is frozen and has a serene atmosphere surrounding it. Therefore, especially for those who enjoy the outdoors, a trip to Kareri Lake is not one to be missed.
Lake Kareri’s flora and fauna
You will have the opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna that call this region home during the challenging trek through Kareri Lake. There are numerous dense tropical pine forests all around the lake. Chir and Chilgoza pines, as well as other broad-life species, abound in the forests. Due to the low canopies, the areas surrounding Kareri Lake are also home to a wide variety of birds that are simple to spot. The tourist will encounter rocky grasslands in the second half of the trail, and the forest will start to be dominated by pines and shrubs.
Trek to Kareri Lake
Starting in Mcleodganj, the journey to the Kareri Lake ascends to the village of the same name, which is 1,800 meters above sea level. Throughout the entire journey, a dense pine forest and a few small villages are traversed. The next step is a gradual ascent through sharp ridges and dense forests to Kareri Lake. You will frequently have to cross the Kareri Nallah over a wooden bridge while traveling along this trail.
For those who want to continue exploring the area and take in the natural splendors, the trail continues from Kareri Lake down to Bagga and then to Rewa. The trek then continues straight to the Guna Devi Temple, which is located 2,120 meters above sea level.
The Kareri Lake trek is one of the alpine treks. It is only advised for experienced hikers who have some prior experience hiking at such high altitudes because it is located in the Indian Himalayan region.
Kareri Lake attractions
A historic temple honoring Lord Shiva and Shakti is among the top sights close to Kareri Lake. This unique temple is perched atop a hill and offers sweeping views of the stunning lake. A few gaddi kothis—areas used by the Gaddis as grazing grounds for their cattle—can also be found on the opposite side of the lake.
The trek, which is the main reason why tourists travel to this region, is arguably the most entertaining and adventurous attraction there. Tourists can participate in Tyrolean Traversing and other adventure activities while on the trek. Additionally, Kareri Lake serves as a starting point for additional hikes into the Dhauladhar range and onward to Chamba and Bharmour via the Minkiani Pass (4250 meters above sea level) and Baleni Pass (3710 meters above sea level).
Ideal Season for Visiting Kareri Lake
Kareri Lake is best visited during the Indian summer. May through July and September through November are the best months to visit Kareri Lake.
Tips to keep in mind
- Tips: It’s essential to plan your hikes and always carry rain gear when visiting Kareri during the monsoon season.
- If you plan to stay at Kareri Village for more than a day, make arrangements to get food and water from Ghera. The only place to use an ATM is in Dharamshala; there are no options for cash withdrawals along the route.
- Before beginning the trek, it is best to inquire about and make advance arrangements for return taxis.
