Kheerganga

Trekking to one of the most refreshing spots in Himachal Pradesh, Kheerganga, will rejuvenate you! Located in Parvati Valley of Kullu district, just 22kms away from Manikaran is a beautiful place called Kheer Ganga. Kheer Ganga is not only popular for its hot springs, but also for the holy River Ganges that surrounds the virgin forests of this place and gushes down mischievously through the verdant forests. The trek to Kheer Ganga is considered to be the most refreshing with invigorating views on your way up and post the climb you are rewarded with an experience that will make you forget all your pains and aches – a refreshing bath in the natural hot water spring. A trekking trip to Kheerganga, Himachal Pradesh was organized by HEC on September 17 and 18. The bus left Roorkee at 9 PM on 16th. It was a group of 32 people including 3 joint secretaries of HEC as trek leaders. Passing through the green meadows, rivers and curvy mountainous roads, the group made a stop at a Sikh Gurudwara in Manikaran for lunch. Barsiaini (where Parvati and Toshi rivers meet) also the starting point of the trek is 14 km from Manikaran. Everyone recharged their energy basket with drinks and chocolates and received necessary instructions from in – charge seniors before starting the trek at about 3 PM. The first halt was Kalga village. Away from the hodge-podge of cities, there existed a serene environment and the toppling to it was the warm and considerate attitude of its natives. The Rudranaag temple and the waterfall had a mesmerizing aura. On making further ascent, the forest became denser, the mountain steeper and the lane narrower. There were a few stretches which were as adventurous as dangerous. The dogs from the area became our companions on the way. Refueling with glucose and brief stops, the group reached the mountain top by 7 PM. Having reached there, the 14 km trail was completed, the end point being 1.2 km vertically upwards from Barsaini. Quickly setting up the tents and after having had a doze, a bonfire was made. Taking turns in groups to have dinner, everyone involved themselves in meaningful conversations which cemented the bond between people. Amid the high rise mountains, the sound of flowing water felt like a soothing music falling on the ear drums and everyone fell asleep in nature’s lap. Waking up on a mountain 9760 feet above sea level with bone-chilling wind and chirrups was enthralling. Everyone then took the relaxing bath in the hot water spring near Shiva Temple and had breakfast on return. At around 11 AM, the group made their way back. By 3 pm the group reached Barsaini. By the time everyone departed and bid goodbyes, life took a different turn. Everyone made some really good friends and memories that forever ingrained in the minds of everyone.