BALI PASS TREK – A JOURNEY BEYOND LIMITS

About this Trek

The Bali Pass Trek is a thrilling high-altitude adventure that takes trekkers from the lush valleys of Har Ki Dun to the sacred Yamunotri side of the Himalayas. At 16,207 ft (4,940 m), Bali Pass offers unmatched 360° views of the Swargarohini peaks, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak (Kala Nag), and the Yamunotri ranges.

Known for its scenic variety, the trek traverses dense forests, alpine meadows, glacial rivers, ancient villages, and the high mountain pass itself. It’s a challenging journey rewarding trekkers with both spiritual significance and raw Himalayan beauty.

Why Choose Bali Pass Trek?

• High-Altitude Adventure: Among the highest non-technical crossover treks in Uttarakhand.
• Scenic Diversity: Experience forests, meadows, glaciers, rivers, and a high Himalayan pass.
• Himalayan Panorama: Spectacular views of Swargarohini (I–IV), Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Ruinsara Valley, and Yamunotri ranges.
• Village Life: Explore ancient villages like Osla and Seema with traditional wooden architecture.
• Spiritual Significance: Ends near Yamunotri Temple, a sacred Char Dham pilgrimage site.
• Wild Camping: Camp at Ruinsara Tal, Odari, and near glaciers with amazing stargazing opportunities.
• Offbeat & Challenging: Less crowded, ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking adventure.

Trek Highlights

• Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
• Maximum Altitude: 16,207 ft (4,940 m)
• Trek Distance: ~60 km (crossing from Sankri to Jankichatti/Yamunotri side)
• Difficulty Level: Difficult (requires high fitness and prior trek experience)
• Best Season: May–June & September–October
• Base Camp: Sankri (6,400 ft)
• Bonus Attractions:
  • Ruinsara Tal – a pristine alpine lake at 11,800 ft
  • Har Ki Dun Valley – ancient villages & mythological Pandava connections
  • Odari – camping under Black Peak’s shadow
  • Yamunotri Temple – spiritual conclusion of the trek

Major Viewpoints Along the Trek

• Sankri Village (6,400 ft): Base for multiple treks. Traditional Garhwali wooden houses, apple orchards, and Himalayan views.
• Taluka & Osla Village (8,500–9,000 ft): Ancient villages with unique wooden architecture and rich cultural heritage.
• Har Ki Dun Valley (11,500 ft): Known as the “Valley of Gods” with mythological ties to the Pandavas. Surrounded by Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch & Black Peak.
• Ruinsara Tal (11,800 ft): Glacial alpine lake amidst forests and snow peaks. A sacred and highlight campsite.
• Odari (13,100 ft): High-altitude meadow under Kala Nag (Black Peak). Popular for camping on open alpine grounds.
• Bali Pass (16,207 ft): The ultimate high point with stunning 360° views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Yamunotri side, and Ruinsara Valley.
• Yamunotri Temple (10,800 ft): Trek concludes near this sacred Char Dham pilgrimage site.

How to Reach

Who Should Do the Trek?

• Experienced Trekkers Only: Requires prior high-altitude trek experience (above 12,000 ft).
• Fitness Enthusiasts: Able to walk 10–12 km daily with a backpack. Comfortable with steep ascents/descents, snow crossings, and long days.
• Adventure Seekers: Looking for an offbeat, challenging, and rewarding Himalayan experience.
• Spiritual Trekkers: Those wanting to end their trek at Yamunotri Temple, blending adventure with faith.

Health & Fitness Check

• Minimum Fitness: Walk/jog 5 km in 35–40 mins. Comfortable climbing 5–6 flights of stairs in one go.
• Recommended: Age 15–55 (exceptions with fitness proof). No chronic heart, asthma, or severe knee issues.
• Pre-Trek Preparation (3–4 weeks prior): Jogging, brisk walking, cycling, leg strengthening (squats, lunges, planks), and breathing exercises for altitude.

Things to Carry