Bali Pass Trek
Uttarakhand
Duration
7D/6N
Grade
Difficult
Max Altitude
16,207 ft.
Trekking Km
60 Kms
Bali Pass Trek Overview
- Trek Name: Bali Pass Trek
- Location: Uttarakhand, India
- Days: 7 Days / 6 Nights
- Pickup & Drop: Dehradun
- Base Camp: Sankri
- Adventure: High-Altitude Trekking
- Maximum Altitude: 16,207 ft (4,940 m)
- Trek Distance: 60 km
- Difficulty Level: Difficult to Challenging
- Season: Summer & Autumn
- Months: May | June | September | October
Bali Pass Trek Itinerary
Day 1 – Drive From Rishikesh to Joshimath
- Altitude: Rishikesh (372 m / 1,220 ft), Sankri (1,950 m / 6,400 ft)
- Altitude Gain: 1,578 m / 5,180 ft
- Drive Distance: 200 km | 8–9 hrs
Your Bali Pass Trek begins from Rishikesh, the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. After an early morning departure, embark on a scenic drive towards Sankri, the picturesque base village for the Bali Pass Trek. The journey takes you through the serene landscapes of Uttarakhand, following the winding roads along the Yamuna and Tons River valleys. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming hill towns, lush forests of pine and deodar, terraced farmlands, and traditional Himalayan villages that showcase the rich culture of the region.
The drive passes through Mussoorie, offering panoramic views of the Doon Valley before descending towards Naugaon, Purola, Mori, and Netwar. As you enter the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park region, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic with dense forests, crystal-clear mountain streams, towering cliffs, and the beautiful Tons River flowing alongside the road.
By evening, you’ll arrive at Sankri, a peaceful Himalayan village nestled amidst thick pine forests and surrounded by majestic peaks. Sankri is one of Uttarakhand’s most popular trekking hubs and serves as the starting point for several iconic treks, including Bali Pass, Har Ki Dun, Kedarkantha, Borasu Pass, and Ruinsara Tal. After checking into your guest house, relax, enjoy the fresh mountain air, attend a trek briefing by your trek leader, and prepare for the adventure that lies ahead.
Highlights of the Day:
• Scenic drive from Rishikesh to Sankri through the Garhwal Himalayas
• Drive through Mussoorie, Purola, Mori, and Netwar
• Beautiful views of the Yamuna and Tons River valleys
• Dense pine and deodar forests, waterfalls, and traditional Himalayan villages
• Arrival at Sankri, the gateway to Bali Pass and Har Ki Dun Valley
• Evening trek briefing and preparation for the expedition
Meals Included: Dinner
Stay: Hotel/Guest House in Sankri
Day 2 – Drive to Poolna and Trek to Ghangaria
- Altitude: Sankri (1,950 m / 6,400 ft), Taluka (2,100 m / 6,890 ft), Seema (2,560 m / 8,400 ft)
- Altitude Gain: 610 m / 2,000 ft
- Drive Distance: 12 km | 1 hr
- Trek Distance: 12 km | 6–7 hrs
After an early breakfast, begin the day with a short drive from Sankri to Taluka, the traditional starting point of the Bali Pass Trek. The route follows a rugged mountain road through dense forests and charming Himalayan villages before reaching Taluka, a small settlement nestled beside the Supin River.
From Taluka, the trek begins on a well-defined trail that gradually ascends through dense forests of pine, walnut, and deodar. The trail runs alongside the crystal-clear Supin River, crossing several wooden bridges and passing beautiful waterfalls, open meadows, and traditional wooden houses. Along the way, you’ll encounter local villagers carrying out their daily routines, offering a glimpse into the simple lifestyle of the remote Garhwal Himalayas.
As the trek progresses, you’ll pass through the ancient Himalayan village of Osla, famous for its beautifully carved wooden houses and the historic Someshwar Temple, believed by locals to be associated with the Mahabharata. After a short rest and exploration of the village, continue trekking through scenic mountain trails to reach Seema, a peaceful campsite located beside the Supin River.
Surrounded by lush forests and towering Himalayan peaks, Seema offers a tranquil setting to relax and acclimatize before heading deeper into the Har Ki Dun Valley. Spend the evening enjoying the pristine mountain environment while preparing for the higher-altitude sections of the trek.
Highlights of the Day:
• Scenic drive from Sankri to Taluka through dense Himalayan forests
• Trek alongside the beautiful Supin River
• Cross traditional wooden bridges and cascading waterfalls
• Visit the ancient Osla Village and the historic Someshwar Temple
• Walk through dense pine, walnut, and deodar forests
• Overnight stay at the peaceful riverside campsite of Seema
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Stay: Tents at Seema Campsite
Day 3 – Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers and Back
- Altitude: Seema (2,560 m / 8,400 ft), Ruinsara Tal (3,500 m / 11,480 ft)
- Altitude Gain: 940 m / 3,080 ft
- Trek Distance: 14 km | 6–7 hrs
Wake up to the soothing sound of the Supin River and enjoy an early breakfast before beginning the trek towards the breathtaking Ruinsara Tal, one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in the Garhwal Himalayas. Today’s trail gradually ascends through dense forests of pine, oak, silver birch, and rhododendron, interspersed with vast alpine meadows and crystal-clear mountain streams.
As you gain altitude, the landscape transforms into wide open grasslands surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. The trail offers magnificent views of Swargarohini, Black Peak (Kala Nag), and Ruinsara Peak, making the journey as rewarding as the destination itself. Along the route, you’ll pass grazing grounds frequented by shepherds and their flocks during the summer months, adding to the charm of this remote Himalayan wilderness.
By afternoon, arrive at Ruinsara Tal, a pristine glacial lake nestled amidst alpine meadows and snow-clad mountains. The calm waters of the lake beautifully reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a spectacular setting for photography and relaxation. Rich in mythology, Ruinsara Tal is believed to be connected with the Mahabharata and is considered sacred by the local communities.
Spend the evening exploring the lakeside surroundings, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, and witnessing a stunning Himalayan sunset before retiring to your campsite under a sky full of stars.
Highlights of the Day:
• Trek through dense pine, oak, birch, and rhododendron forests
• Walk across beautiful alpine meadows and shepherd grazing grounds
• Spectacular views of Swargarohini, Black Peak (Kala Nag), and Ruinsara Peak
• Visit the pristine glacial lake of Ruinsara Tal
• Excellent opportunities for nature photography and birdwatching
• Peaceful lakeside camping amidst the Garhwal Himalayas
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Stay: Tents at Ruinsara Tal Campsite
Day 4 – Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and Back
- Altitude: Ruinsara Tal (3,500 m / 11,480 ft), Odari Camp (4,000 m / 13,120 ft)
- Altitude Gain: 500 m / 1,640 ft
- Trek Distance: 5 km | 3–4 hrs
After enjoying a peaceful morning beside the pristine waters of Ruinsara Tal, begin a gradual ascent towards Odari Camp, an important acclimatization campsite on the Bali Pass Trek. Although the trekking distance is relatively short, the increasing altitude requires a slow and steady pace to help your body adjust to the thinner mountain air.
The trail climbs through vast alpine meadows, rocky terrain, and glacial streams while offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. As you leave the tree line behind, the landscape becomes more rugged and dramatic, with towering cliffs, moraines, and snow-covered mountains dominating the horizon. Throughout the trek, enjoy magnificent views of Swargarohini, Black Peak (Kala Nag), Bandarpoonch, and Ruinsara Peak, making today’s journey a visual delight.
Odari, meaning “cave” in the local language, is named after a natural rock cave believed by locals to have provided shelter to sages and shepherds for centuries. Upon reaching the campsite, spend the afternoon relaxing, acclimatizing, and exploring the surrounding area. The camp offers breathtaking panoramic views and serves as the perfect base before the challenging ascent to Bali Pass.
Enjoy an early dinner and rest well, as the coming days involve trekking through high-altitude terrain and crossing one of the most spectacular mountain passes in Uttarakhand.
Highlights of the Day:
• Gradual ascent through alpine meadows and rocky mountain trails
• Excellent acclimatization before the Bali Pass crossing
• Panoramic views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Ruinsara Peak
• Visit the historic Odari Cave, associated with local Himalayan legends
• Stunning high-altitude campsite surrounded by snow-clad mountains
• Peaceful evening under a sky filled with Himalayan stars
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Stay: Tents at Odari Camp
Day 5 – Ghangaria to Poolna and Drive to Joshimath
- Altitude: Odari Camp (4,000 m / 13,120 ft), Bali Pass Base Camp (4,450 m / 14,600 ft)
- Altitude Gain: 450 m / 1,480 ft
- Trek Distance: 5 km | 4–5 hrs
After an early breakfast, continue your ascent towards Bali Pass Base Camp, the final campsite before crossing the majestic Bali Pass. Although today’s trekking distance is relatively short, the trail becomes more demanding as you move through rugged high-altitude terrain, loose moraine, glacial sections, and rocky slopes.
As the altitude increases, the vegetation gradually disappears, giving way to a dramatic landscape of boulders, glaciers, and snowfields. Every step brings you closer to the towering Himalayan giants, with spectacular views of Swargarohini Massif, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak (Kala Nag), and several unnamed snow-covered ridges. The pristine wilderness and untouched beauty of this region make today’s journey one of the most memorable sections of the trek.
Upon reaching Bali Pass Base Camp, settle into your tents and spend the afternoon resting and acclimatizing. The campsite is surrounded by towering mountains and offers breathtaking views of the route leading towards Bali Pass. Your trek leader will conduct a detailed briefing about the next day’s summit push, including safety instructions, weather conditions, and the early morning departure plan.
Enjoy an early dinner and retire to your tents, as the next day begins well before sunrise for the challenging and rewarding crossing of Bali Pass (4,940 m / 16,207 ft).
Highlights of the Day:
• Trek through rugged alpine terrain, moraines, and glacial sections
• Spectacular views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak
• Reach the scenic Bali Pass Base Camp surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks
• Acclimatization and preparation for the high-altitude pass crossing
• Trek leader’s safety briefing for the summit day
• Stunning sunset and star-filled skies in the high Himalayas
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Stay: Tents at Bali Pass Base Camp
Day 6 – Drive From Joshimath to Rishikesh
- Altitude: Bali Pass Base Camp (4,450 m / 14,600 ft), Bali Pass (4,940 m / 16,207 ft), Lower Dhamni (3,400 m / 11,155 ft)
- Altitude Gain: 490 m / 1,607 ft
- Altitude Loss: 1,540 m / 5,052 ft
- Trek Distance: 15 km | 9–10 hrs
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the Bali Pass Trek. Begin your trek well before sunrise with headlamps, making a steady climb towards Bali Pass (4,940 m / 16,207 ft). The ascent involves negotiating steep rocky trails, loose scree, glacial patches, and, depending on the season, sections of snow. The crisp mountain air and the changing colors of the Himalayan skyline make the climb an unforgettable experience.
After several hours of trekking, reach the summit of Bali Pass, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of some of the Garhwal Himalayas’ most iconic peaks, including Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak (Kala Nag), and Srikanth Peak. On clear days, the sacred Yamunotri Valley can also be seen stretching far below, offering a spectacular panorama that makes every step worthwhile.
After spending some time at the pass, begin the steep descent towards Lower Dhamni. The trail descends through snowfields, rocky slopes, and alpine meadows before gradually entering greener landscapes. The descent requires careful footing, especially on loose terrain, but rewards trekkers with incredible views of glaciers, waterfalls, and high-altitude valleys.
By late afternoon, arrive at Lower Dhamni, a peaceful campsite surrounded by alpine meadows and mountain streams. After a long and demanding day, relax at camp, enjoy a hot meal, and celebrate successfully crossing one of Uttarakhand’s most spectacular high mountain passes.
Highlights of the Day:
• Early morning summit push to Bali Pass (4,940 m / 16,207 ft)
• Cross one of Uttarakhand’s most thrilling high-altitude mountain passes
• Spectacular views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Srikanth Peak
• Panoramic views of the sacred Yamunotri Valley
• Exciting descent through snowfields, glaciers, moraines, and alpine meadows
• Overnight stay at the scenic Lower Dhamni campsite
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
Stay: Tents at Lower Dhamni Campsite
Day 6 – Drive From Joshimath to Rishikesh
- Altitude: Lower Dhamni (3,400 m / 11,155 ft), Janki Chatti (2,650 m / 8,694 ft), Dehradun (640 m / 2,100 ft)
- Altitude Loss: 2,760 m / 9,055 ft
- Trek Distance: 9 km | 4–5 hrs
- Drive Distance: 180 km | 7–8 hrs
After an early breakfast, begin your final day on the Bali Pass Trek with a gradual descent through the scenic Yamunotri Valley. The trail passes through alpine meadows, dense oak and rhododendron forests, crystal-clear mountain streams, and cascading waterfalls, offering beautiful views throughout the descent. As you lose altitude, the landscape gradually transforms from rugged alpine terrain to lush Himalayan forests.
On reaching Yamunotri Dham, one of the four sacred shrines of the Char Dham Yatra, you may visit the revered Yamunotri Temple and the sacred Surya Kund hot spring if time permits. Continue the descent to Janki Chatti, where your trek officially concludes.
From Janki Chatti, board your vehicle for the scenic drive to Dehradun. The route passes through Hanuman Chatti, Barkot, Naugaon, Kempty Falls, and Mussoorie, offering spectacular views of valleys, forests, and traditional Himalayan villages. By evening, arrive in Dehradun, marking the successful completion of the adventurous Bali Pass Trek with unforgettable memories of high mountain passes, pristine lakes, ancient villages, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.
Highlights of the Day:
• Descend through the beautiful Yamunotri Valley
• Trek through forests, waterfalls, and alpine meadows
• Visit Yamunotri Temple and Surya Kund (time permitting)
• Reach Janki Chatti, the endpoint of the Bali Pass Trek
• Scenic drive through Barkot, Mussoorie, and the Garhwal Himalayas to Dehradun
• End the trek with unforgettable memories of one of Uttarakhand’s most challenging Himalayan adventures
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Stay: Not Included (Trek Ends in Dehradun)
Bali Pass Trek Cost Terms – Inclusions & Exclusions
• Accommodation in hotels/guest houses on a sharing basis in Sankri, and alpine camps on a twin/triple-sharing basis during the trek.
• All meals during the trek (usually from Day 1 dinner to Day 7 breakfast).
• Certified trek leader, experienced local guides, cooks, and support staff throughout the expedition.
• Camping equipment including high-quality tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, dining tents, kitchen tents, and toilet tents wherever camping is applicable.
• Transportation between Dehradun and Sankri, and from Janki Chatti to Dehradun, including the Sankri–Taluka transfer.
• Forest permits, Govind Pashu Vihar National Park entry fees, camping charges, and all necessary trekking permits.
• Basic safety equipment including first-aid kits, oxygen cylinders, pulse oximeters, stretchers (if required), and emergency medical support.
• Group technical and safety equipment such as ropes, crampons, gaiters, ice axes, helmets, and other mountaineering gear whenever required depending on trail and snow conditions.
• Luggage transportation from Sankri to the trek starting point (Taluka) where applicable.
• Assistance with acclimatization, daily trek briefings, and complete trek coordination by the expedition team throughout the journey.
• Transportation to Dehradun from your hometown and return travel after the trek.
• Breakfast and lunch on Day 1, and dinner on Day 7.
• Any accommodation in Dehradun before or after the trek.
• Personal trekking gear such as trekking shoes, backpacks, trekking poles, gloves, jackets, rainwear, sunglasses, gaiters (if not provided), and other personal clothing.
• Personal expenses including snacks, bottled water, beverages, laundry, phone calls, internet charges, and tips for the trek staff.
• Porter or mule services for carrying personal luggage during the trek (available at an additional cost, if arranged in advance).
• Travel insurance, medical insurance, evacuation expenses, helicopter rescue, or any emergency costs arising due to illness, injury, or natural calamities.
• Any cost arising due to roadblocks, landslides, bad weather, flight/train delays, government restrictions, strikes, or any unforeseen circumstances beyond the organizer’s control.
• Charges for personal equipment rental if not included in the package.
• Anything not specifically mentioned under the “Inclusions” section.
Bali Pass Trek Essentials – Complete Packing List
- 2–3 quick-dry T-shirts (preferably full-sleeve)
- 2 trekking pants (avoid jeans)
- 1 fleece jacket
- 1 down/padded jacket
- 1 thermal set (top and bottom)
- Waterproof rain jacket or poncho
- 4–5 pairs of socks (mix of woolen and synthetic)
- Warm cap/beanie and sun cap
- Waterproof gloves + fleece/wool gloves
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Waterproof trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support
- Sandals/Crocs for campsite and river crossings
- Extra pair of comfortable camp footwear
- 50–60 L backpack with rain cover
- 15–20 L daypack (if using porter/offloading service)
- Trekking pole(s)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Dry bags or zip-lock bags for clothes/electronics
- Water bottles (2 L total capacity) or hydration bladder
- Power bank
- UV-protection sunglasses
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Lip balm
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes/toilet paper
- Toothbrush and basic toiletries
- Personal medicines and first-aid items
- ORS packets and energy bars/dry fruits
- Government photo ID
How To Reach Bali Pass Trek
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED).
- Distance from airport to Dehradun Railway Station: ~30–35 km | 45–60 minutes
- Regular flights operate from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, and other major Indian cities.
- From the airport, taxis, app-based cabs, and airport shuttles are easily available to Dehradun Railway Station or ISBT, from where you can continue your journey
The nearest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station (DDN).
- Well-connected with Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Varanasi, Amritsar, and other major Indian cities.
- Popular trains include: Vande Bharat Express, Dehradun Shatabdi Express, Nanda Devi AC Superfast Express, Mussoorie Express, and Jan Shatabdi Express.
- From Dehradun Railway Station, taxis, shared cabs, and trek operator vehicles are readily available
Dehradun is well connected by road to major cities in North India through National Highways and regular bus services.
- Delhi to Dehradun: ~250 km | 6–7 hours (Frequent Volvo, AC, and state transport buses from ISBT Kashmere Gate)
- Chandigarh to Dehradun: ~170 km | 4–5 hours
- Haridwar to Dehradun: ~55 km | 1.5–2 hours
- Rishikesh to Dehradun: ~45 km | 1–1.5 hours
- From Dehradun, taxis, shared cabs, and trek operator vehicles are easily available for the onward journey
Bali Pass Trek FAQ's
Is the Bali Pass Trek suitable for beginners?
No. The Bali Pass Trek is considered a difficult to challenging Himalayan trek. It involves steep ascents, glacier crossings, loose moraine, long trekking days, and a high-altitude pass at 4,940 m (16,207 ft). It is recommended only for trekkers who have prior high-altitude trekking experience and good physical fitness.
Which is the best month to do the Bali Pass Trek?
The best time for the Bali Pass Trek is May to June for snow-covered trails and clear mountain views, and September to October for stable weather, colorful autumn landscapes, and excellent visibility. The trek is generally not recommended during the monsoon due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails.
How difficult is the Bali Pass Trek compared to Kedarkantha or Har Ki Dun?
The Bali Pass Trek is significantly more challenging than Kedarkantha Trek and Har Ki Dun Trek. It includes technical sections, glacier crossings, steep climbs, and long trekking hours, making it suitable for experienced trekkers rather than beginners.
What fitness level is required for the Bali Pass Trek?
Trekkers should be able to comfortably run 5 km in under 35–40 minutes, walk 12–15 km with a loaded backpack, and have strong leg strength and endurance. A fitness routine including cardio, stair climbing, and strength training for at least 6–8 weeks before the trek is highly recommended.
Do I need technical mountaineering experience for the Bali Pass Trek?
No formal mountaineering certification is required. However, previous experience on high-altitude Himalayan treks is strongly recommended. Depending on snow conditions, your trek leader may provide and assist with the use of crampons, ropes, gaiters, or ice axes during the Bali Pass crossing.
Which major peaks are visible from Bali Pass?
The trek offers spectacular views of several iconic Himalayan peaks, including Swargarohini (I–IV), Bandarpoonch, Black Peak (Kala Nag), Ruinsara Peak, and Srikanth Peak. On clear days, trekkers also enjoy panoramic views of the Yamunotri Valley.
Is mobile network and internet available during the Bali Pass Trek?
Mobile connectivity is available only in Sankri and occasionally at a few lower-altitude villages. After leaving Sankri, there is little to no mobile network or internet connectivity until the trek ends near Janki Chatti.
Can I visit Yamunotri Temple during the Bali Pass Trek?
Yes. Since the trek descends into the Yamunotri Valley, trekkers usually have the opportunity to visit the Yamunotri Temple and the sacred Surya Kund Hot Spring, depending on the itinerary schedule and weather conditions.
What permits are required for the Bali Pass Trek?
The trek requires Govind Pashu Vihar National Park entry permits, camping permissions, and other forest clearances. If you book through a registered trekking operator, these permits are generally included in the trek package.
Is mobile network and internet available during the Bali Pass Trek?
The Bali Pass Trek is unique because it connects the lush Har Ki Dun Valley with the sacred Yamunotri Valley, offering an incredible variety of landscapes. Trekkers experience ancient Himalayan villages, alpine meadows, pristine glacial lakes like Ruinsara Tal, challenging high-altitude terrain, and one of the most rewarding mountain pass crossings in the Indian Himalayas—all in a single expedition.
₹10,499/-
₹8,499/-
Per Person
- Services Dehradun to Dehradun | Included Transport
- Complimentary cloakroom at base camp for safe storage.
- Pickup Location: Dehradun
- Drop Location: Dehradun
- Pickup: 7:00 AM | Drop: 5:00–6:30 PM (traffic/river activity dependent)
- Keep a buffer day and arrive a day early to avoid delays due to traffic, weather, or local conditions.
- Booking Policy
- Cancellation Policy
- Terms & Conditions
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