Bali Pass Trek: A Complete Guide for Trekkers

The Bali Pass Trek is a thrilling journey in the Indian Himalayas that connects the Har Ki Dun Valley to the Yamunotri Valley. Known for its scenic views, alpine meadows, and challenging high-altitude route, the trek is a favorite among seasoned trekkers. If you are looking for a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness, the Bali Pass Trek is the right choice.

What is Bali Pass Trek

The Trek is a high-altitude trek located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. It reaches a height of about 4950 meters or 16240 feet. The trek covers a distance of around 60 kilometers. It is known for its raw beauty, remote trails, and breathtaking views of famous peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak.

The Bali Pass Trek starts from Sankri village and ends at Janki Chatti, which is near the sacred Yamunotri temple. It takes you through lush forests, wide meadows, alpine lakes, and snowy passes. The trail is challenging and is best suited for experienced trekkers.

Highlights of Bali Pass Trek

Spectacular Mountain Views

You can enjoy stunning views of snow-covered peaks throughout the trek. The Swargarohini range, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak are some of the famous mountains you will see along the way.

Scenic Landscapes

From the green valleys of Har Ki Dun to the barren beauty of the upper Himalayas, the trek offers a wide variety of landscapes. Meadows like Dev Thach and Ruinsara Valley are peaceful and picturesque.

Ruinsara Tal

Ruinsara Tal is a beautiful high-altitude lake located at around 3500 meters. Surrounded by lush greenery and high cliffs, it is one of the most peaceful spots on the trail.

High Altitude Pass

Crossing the Bali Pass is the most adventurous part of the trek. With an altitude of 4950 meters, it offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan range. The climb is steep and often covered in snow.

Cultural Experience

You will pass through remote villages like Osla and Gangad, where you can experience the unique lifestyle of the local people. The wooden houses, ancient temples, and traditional customs offer a glimpse into Garhwali culture.

Route and Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Sankri

Sankri is a small village that serves as the base camp for many treks in Uttarakhand. It is around 200 kilometers from Dehradun and can be reached by road. Overnight stay in guest houses or homestays.

Day 2: Sankri to Seema via Taluka

Drive to Taluka (12 km) and then trek to Seema. The trail goes through thick forests and small villages. It is an easy walk of around 12 kilometers.

Day 3: Seema to Rainbasera

The trek from Seema to Rainbasera is around 10 kilometers. The trail runs along the Supin River. You will see beautiful waterfalls and open meadows on the way.

Day 4: Rainbasera to Ruinsara Tal

This part of the trek is about 8 kilometers. You will reach the calm and peaceful Ruinsara Lake. Camp overnight near the lake.

Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Ruinsara Tal

Take a rest day to get used to the high altitude. Explore the area around Ruinsara and enjoy the views.

Day 6: Ruinsara Tal to Odari

A short but steep trek of around 4 kilometers takes you to Odari. It is a rocky area with stunning views of nearby peaks.

Day 7: Odari to Bali Pass and then to Lower Dhamni

This is the toughest and longest day. You will climb the Bali Pass and then descend to Lower Dhamni. The day involves about 12 kilometers of trekking. Be prepared for snow and steep sections.

Day 8: Lower Dhamni to Janki Chatti

The final stretch is a 10-kilometer walk through forests and small streams. You will reach Janki Chatti by afternoon. From here, you can visit the Yamunotri temple or drive back to Dehradun.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to do the Bali Pass Trek is during the summer and post-monsoon months. These include:

• May to June: Clear skies and snow on the higher reaches.
• September to October: Pleasant weather and clear views. Less snow but still challenging.

Avoid the monsoon months (July and August) as the trails can be slippery and risky due to landslides.

Difficulty Level

The Bali Pass Trek is considered difficult. It involves walking long distances at high altitudes and crossing snow-covered areas. Trekkers need to have good physical fitness and some prior experience in high-altitude trekking.

Things that make the trek difficult:

• Steep climbs
• High altitude
• Snow and rocky terrain
• Cold weather

Things to Carry

Here is a list of essential items for the trek:

• Good trekking shoes
• Warm clothes including thermals and jackets
• Raincoat or poncho
• Sleeping bag
• Trekking pole
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Water bottles and purification tablets
• First aid kit and medicines
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Energy bars and dry fruits

Safety Tips

• Always go with a registered guide or trekking group.
• Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
• Stay hydrated and eat well.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking.
• Inform someone about your route and expected return.

Conclusion

The Bali Pass Trek is one of the most exciting and rewarding treks in the Indian Himalayas. With its mix of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure, it promises a memorable journey. However, due to its difficulty level, it is best suited for those who are well-prepared and have some trekking experience. If you are ready for a real mountain challenge, the Bali Pass Trek is waiting for you.