Beas Kund Trek
Beas Kund is the high-altitude glacial lake at 3,700m that is the source of the Beas river — the same river that flows through Kullu and eventually reaches the plains. The trek to reach it passes through the Solang Valley and climbs into serious mountain terrain with views of Hanuman Tibba (5,982m), Friendship Peak (5,289m), and the Seven Sisters range.
It is classed as moderate: no technical climbing, no ropes or crampons needed in summer, but a proper trek requiring reasonable fitness and gear. Most people do it in 2 nights / 3 days, though it is possible to rush in 2 days if you are fit.
Highlights
- ✓The Kund itself: a glacial lake at 3,700m, surrounded by moraines and permanent snowfields
- ✓Views of Hanuman Tibba (5,982m) — one of the most prominent peaks visible from the trek
- ✓Alpine meadows (bugyals) at Dhundhi and Bakarthach, covered in wildflowers in July
- ✓Crossing glacial streams fed by the Beas Kund glacier
- ✓Friendship Peak (5,289m) — popular mountaineering summit — visible from the upper sections
Fitness and preparation
Grade: Moderate. You should be comfortable walking 10–14 km/day on uneven terrain with a daypack. The main challenge is altitude — at 3,700m, the air is noticeably thin. Spend at least one night in Manali (2,050m) before starting, preferably two. Symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, fatigue) are common on the first day above 3,000m. Descend immediately if symptoms worsen. Do not drink alcohol for 48 hours before and during the trek.
Permits and guides
The trek enters the Kullu valley protected area. A forest permit is required (your guide or the trailhead checkpost will handle this — usually ₹100–200). Hiring a local guide is strongly recommended if you have not trekked in the Himalayas before. Guides from Solang or Dhundhi charge ₹800–1,500/day. They know the path, campsites, and what to do if weather closes in. Porters for your bags cost ₹600–900/day.
What to bring
Warm layers (temperature drops below 0°C at the Kund even in July). Waterproof jacket — afternoon clouds are common. Trekking poles help on the rocky sections above Bakarthach. Sunscreen (UV at altitude is intense). At least 2 litres of water capacity — streams are clean but carry purification tabs. Sleeping bag rated to at least -5°C if camping. Camp fees at Bakarthach are ₹200–400 per night.
Getting there
- →Drive to Dhundhi (6 km past Solang Valley) to start the trek — taxi from Manali: ₹600–800
- →Alternatively start from Solang Valley itself — adds 3 km to Day 1
- →Day 1: Dhundhi → Bakarthach (3 km, 3–4 hrs, campsite at 3,300m)
- →Day 2: Bakarthach → Beas Kund → back to Bakarthach or Dhundhi
- →Day 3: Return to Manali
Best for
- ·Fit first-time trekkers wanting a Himalayan experience
- ·Photographers (alpine meadows and glacial views)
- ·Those with 3 days to spare beyond the standard Manali tourism
Local tip
Acclimatize one day in Manali before starting. Guides available at Solang.