IT
rek Overview
Quick Facts
Maximum Altitude
16,200 ft.
Trek Duration
7 Night / 8 Days
Trek Distance
60 Km
Difficulty Level
Difficult
Start/End Point
Prince Chowk, Dehradun
Nearest Airport
Jollygrant Airport, Dehradun
Best Season
May- June / Sep - Oct
Accomodation
A night in hotel room & during trek in dome styled tent
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, evening snacks and dinner
Permits
Forest Department & Trekking permit
Temperature
5°C to 15°C (Day) , 0°C to -15°C (Night)
Snow
December to February
The Bali Pass is a high altitude trek in the Himalayas that reaches a massive 16,200 ft. It connects two beautiful valleys Supin and Vaitarni offering a thrilling experience between the high mountain peaks. This 60 km trek lies within the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park and runs from the small village of Sankri to the holy shrine of Yamunotri. This trek features a dramatic transverse between dense conifer forests at lower elevations and high alpine glacial environment near the top. The Bali Pass Trek can be geographically identified by three landmarks: the ancient wooden heritage village of Osla, the beautiful glacial lake of Ruinsara Tal (3,500m) and the three towering massifs – Swargarohini (6,252m), Bandarpoonch (6,316m) and Kalanag (6,387m). This trek is classified Level 4 due to its severe technical challenges, including the crux – a knife-edge ridge traversing from a high point to steep slope covered with loose scree and permanent snowbeds with a vertical slope of 60 degrees. This is one of the few long-distance treks that results in nearly a 1,000m vertical descent in a single afternoon; therefore, micro-spikes, trekking poles, and a high level of physical fitness are recommended to complete this trek successfully. The trek also provides a unique connection between the tribal lifestyle found in the Har Ki Dun Valley and the spiritual significance of the Char Dham shrines.
Why is the Bali Pass Trek so special?
The Bali Pass Trek features an uncommon scenery of mythological significance, technical skill levels and geographical movement. This is one of the toughest high altitude bridges between two important cultural landmarks: The Tons Valley (cultural) and Yamuna River (spiritual). This is a more detailed account of why the trek to Bali Pass would be considered one of the most unique treks in the Indian Himalayas:
1. A Grand Crossover:
The majority of treks are found to be in a circular design. Bali Pass is a linear crossover, as you start at the lush tribal region of Sankri and end at the sacred pilgrimage site of Yamunotri, allowing for never having the same scenery twice along the route. You will witness the full transition from the dense forests of Govind Pashu Vihar National Park that are populated with blue pine and silver birch trees, to the high alpine glaciers of Upper Garhwal, to the steep and rocky gorges of the Vaitarni Valley.
2. Unmatched Proximity to Garhwal Giants:
Trekkers on popular treks such as Kedarkantha and Har Ki Dun get to see the peaks from a distance, but on Bali Pass, you will trek to the base of these peaks.
- Swargarohini Massif: You’re trekking along the lateral moraine of the glaciers that feed into these peaks; legend has it to be the Stairway to Heaven also.
- Kalanag (Black Peak): This peak rises to 6,387 m and has a massive ice wall that can be seen in extraordinary detail from the Ripsha Valley (approx 3 km away) and from this pass (approx 5 km away); it will for sure blow you away.
- Bandarpoonch: It appears so near (approx. 5 km) from the path up to the pass that you could touch it.
3. The Mythological Legend:
This trek is the Path of Pandavas, and locals say that it is the path followed by the five brothers and their wife – Draupadi – to their final destination: Heaven. Also, your path will take you through the village of Osla and past a temple. The entire town of Osla is composed of large wooden structures that have been connected with large interlocking beams of cedar wood; these buildings provide you with a window into ancient Himalayan architectural style.
4. Technical Terrain:
The technical challenge of the Bali Pass is what sets it apart from other passes and makes it so unique; it has one element that takes it to another level and that is the crux -the descent from the pass to Yamunotri being a 60 degree convex slope that is almost straight down. In early summer this descent is a steep snow bank with inclined angles which would require the use of ice tools or micro spikes to assist in traversing. In the fall, this descent is nothing but a loose rock slope where every step will create a mini avalanche effect produced by the release of loose stones on the slope below you. In one sense, this is the most adrenaline-pumping part of trekking that isn't mountaineering.
5. The Solitude of Ruinsara Tal:
This is a trek to the remote Ruinsara Tal located at a high altitude of 3,500 m. Ruinsara Tal is a remote spot far away from the overcrowded campsites of more popular trekking routes. In the summer months lakes are often adorned with beautiful alpine flowers with large boulders lying all around it, giving the feeling of being at the end of the world. Ruinsara Tal is the calm pre-cursor to the intense and jagged landscape of the Bali Pass that each trekker must traverse.
6. The Temple of Yamunotri:
Many treks usually conclude with a road-head, however, when you trek to Bali Pass, your trekking adventure will conclude in place of major significance, namely the Yamunotri Temple, one of four temples along the Char Dham circuit. This place marks the end of seven days of tough terrain by providing such high levels of spiritual energy. In addition to the spiritual aspect of your trekking, you can also take advantage of the hot springs found at this site to help soothe and heal your entire body after all of your hard work. This is truly a great experience and one that may be hard to duplicate on subsequent treks.
Trek Highlights

Unique Experiences
The trek culminates in the simultaneous clash of elements - stress and ease. Following days spent exerting oneself while trying to acclimatize to the elevation difference, you will reach the foot of the mountain where you can find solace at the Surya Kund hot springs in Yamunotri. By soaking in the hot springs, you should experience both an emotional/physical cleansing. Transitioning from the pain associated with descending to the warmth of the hot springs creates a rounded off experience that the Bali Pass is an unrivalled trek in the Himalayas.

Adventure and Difficulty Level
The Bali Pass is rated as a 4 (hard) level trek and is considered one of the most physically demanding treks in Uttarakhand. The crux of the expedition occurs during the descent to Yamunotri when you have to trek an almost vertical wall of 60 degrees. This section requires complete mental focus and technical foot placement while traversing steep scree or ice. It is a true test of mountain grit, where every step you take will require calculation and security.

Flora & Fauna
You will cross through the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, which is a sanctuary for rare and sacred species. The trail leads you through groves of Bhojpatra (Indigenous Paper Birch); in ancient times, the bark of these trees was used as the parchment for sacred scriptures. You may see the magnificent Himalayan Monal, with its beautiful and iridescent multi-coloured feathers, or the elusive blue sheep (Bharal), which moves among the high cliffs, if you are silent and patient. Close to the permanent snowline, you might see a legendary flower that is rare in nature called Brahma Kamal, which grows only in these extreme conditions.

Cultural & Village Life
The Bali Pass Trek is an experience both spiritual and physical. You will trek through the (two) oldest and most culturally intact villages in the entire Himalayas (Sankri & Osla). The villages have had some of the most majestic wooden temples that are centuries old and carved with intricate designs which depict stories from the Mahabharata. There is an extremely strong living connection to these legends by the locals. The unique combination of being on top of a mountain (extremely high vertical elevation) and possessing a rich history of human existence creates a profound human spirit within the inhospitable environment as well as showing evidence that these people have endured.

Best Season & Seasonal Beauty
The trek consists of completely different views and experiences physically and visually. In the pre-monsoon period (May/June) the terrain is like a winter wonderland for people who like to play in the snow. The snow is at its peak level which makes for a great opportunity to slide down the tremendous slopes! Below the summit in the meadows, the areas will be vibrant with an explosion of colour from wildflowers and rhododendron flowers. After the snow has melted (September/October) the mountains will appear to be bare, like the bones of the mountain, with a rugged appearance which reveals the skeletal aspect of the mountain. You can clearly see the mountains due to the clarity of the air and hence take amazing pictures due to the closeness of the trees. When you look down from the mountain there will be an array of brilliant autumn colours from yellowish orange.

Summit Experience
Standing at the summit (4,950 metres) is difficult to describe in words. It is a very narrow and dangerous place to stand. Like the view from the summit of Mt. Shivling, the panoramic view from the summit of Mt. Kalanag is simply breathtaking. The mountains that you see at the top of Garhwal are collectively called the Garhwal Trinity. The three peaks of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kalanag amaze all who see them from the summit. In addition, there are some very deep, jagged, trenches on the surface of the earth (valleys), as you look into the valleys below, and there are some very jagged peaks that you can see in the distance on the horizon.

Scenic Beauty & Landscapes
The first part of this trek starts in The Land of the Gods. When you trek into the area, you are immediately surrounded by some of the oldest, largest forests in the world. The trees are beautiful, ancient Deodar and Blue Pine trees. They create an almost magical feeling as you step into the woods. As you trek to the mountain, you begin to notice that the density of the trees is becoming less dense. You eventually reach Ruinsara Valley, which is one of the largest glacial basins in the world. One of the most beautiful parts of the Ruinsara Valley is a mountain lake, or Ruinsara Lake, which looks like a blue diamond because it is located within a bunch of nice big granite boulders. It is cool that this is one of the few lakes with salt water at this height. After you pass Ruinsara Lake, you will not see any vegetation anymore, and you will enter a surreal world of lateral moraines, broken ice, and cliffs.
Short and Detailed Itinerary, Trek Map and Altitude Chart of Bali Pass Trek
This section provides a comprehensive, simple explanation of the Bali Pass Trek, including general day-to-day routing, elevation gain, etc. The basic itinerary is designed to give an overview of the trek; all-inclusive itinerary allows for a more in-depth understanding of the various distances between campsites, the nature/type of terrain that trekkers will be traversing, and the locations of the campsite relative to one another.
In addition to the above, the trek map indicates the specific route of the trekking path, village locations, forest locations, and campsite locations within the trek area enabling trekkers to imagine their trek through snow-covered coniferous forests and alpine meadows. The elevation chart clearly indicates the total elevation gained and lost each day of the trek ensuring that trekkers can prepare adequately before arriving at the basecamp, acclimatize safely to altitude, and have a positive experience on their overall trek.
IS
hort Itinerary
Day 1:Drive from Dehradun (1,480 ft.) to Sankri (6,400 ft.)
Drive Distance
200 Km (9 -10 hrs) via Mussorrie and PurolaAltitude Gain
4,920 ft. Meal
Evening snacks and dinner Stay
At Trekup India guesthouseExpert Advise: If you have motion sickness problem make sure to take medication prior to the drive starts.
Day 2:Drive from Sankri (6,400 ft.) to Dharkot Village (8,000 ft.) & trek from Dharkot (8,000 ft.) to Seema campsite (8,500 ft.)
Drive Distance
16 Km (1.5 hrs)Altitude Gain
1,600 ftTrek Distance
4 Km (3 - 4 hrs)Altitude Gain
500 ft.Meal
Breakfast, packed lunch, evening snacks & dinnerStay
At Seema campsiteWater Source: On route to Dharkot and fill your thermos flask at Dharkot campsite.
Day 3:Trek from Seema (8,500 ft.) to Rainbasera (10,150 ft.)
Trek Distance
10 Km (6 - 7 hrs)Altitude Gain
1,650 ft.Meal
Breakfast, packed lunch, snacks & dinnerStay
At Rainbasera campsiteWater Source: Carry & fill your thermos flask at Seema campsite.
Day 4:Trek from Rainbasera (10,150 ft.) to Ruinsara Tal (11,800 ft.)
Trek Distance
7 Km (4 - 5 hrs)Altitude Gain
1,650 ft.Meal
Breakfast, lunch, snacks & dinnerStay
At Ruinsara Tal campsiteWater Source: Carry & fill your thermos flask at Rainbasera campsite.
Day 5:Trek from Ruinsara Tal (11,800 ft.) to Odari (13,100 ft.)
Trek Distance
4 Km (3 - 4 hrs)Altitude Gain
1,300 ft.Meal
Breakfast, lunch, snacks & dinnerStay
At Odari campsiteWater Source: Carry & fill your thermos flask at Ruinsara Tal campsite.
Day 6:Trek from Odari (13,100 ft.) to Bali Col Camp (15,100 ft.)
Trek Distance
5 Km (6 - 7 hrs)Altitude Gain
2,000 ft.Meal
Breakfast, lunch, snacks & dinnerStay
At Bali Col CampsiteWater Source: Carry & fill your thermoflask at Odari campsite.
Day 7:Trek from Bali Col Camp (15,100 ft.) to Lower Dhamni (11,100 ft.)
Trek Distance
14 Km (10 - 11 hrs)Altitude Loss
4,000 ft.Meal
Breakfast, packed lunch, snacks & dinnerStay
At Lower Dhamni campsiteWater Source: Carry & fill your thermoflask at Bali Col Campsite.
Day 8:Trek from Lower Dhamni (11,100 ft.) to Janki Chatti (8,500 ft.) & drive to Dehradun (1,480 ft.)
Trek Distance
8 Km (4 - 5 hrs)Altitude Loss
2,600 ft.Drive Distance
170 Km (7 - 8 hrs)Meal
Breakfast & packed lunchWater Source: You will find tea stops & restaurants en route to Dehradun.
Bali Pass Trek Route Map and Altitude Chart
Trek Map
To assist you with your upcoming Bali Pass Trek, we have created an encompassing Trek Route Map. This map will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the entire trek; from your departure to the summit and back again. On this map, you will find all of the most critical information regarding all of the significant way points (trails, elevations, points of interest) as well as terrain and distance between campsites and approximate durations of trek, making your trek planning more efficient. Our team at Trekup India, put a high priority on giving you the full range of important information required to aid you in your trekking experience without issues. For the best experience, we strongly encourage you to study the Route Map before your trek. Should you have any questions or require clarification regarding this map, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Trekup India customer support team. We are always here to help you prepare for your journey with confidence.

Altitude Chart
The Bali Pass Trek Altitude Chart provides useful information to help trekkers keep track of their altitude change as they make their way through the trek. The chart shows how much elevation gain is made at each segment of the trek, which enables trekkers to effectively develop a plan for their pace during the trek, as well as monitor how their body reacts when they are at higher elevation. Therefore, this chart is beneficial for both beginner trekkers and experienced trekkers, mainly because they will have better preparation in terms of acclimatization and how to get the best experience from the Himalayas. Furthermore, the Altitude Chart enables trekkers to visually see how the trail will gradually go up and down, making it easier and safer to have a well-paced trek.

ID
etailed Day Wise Bali Pass Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun (1,480 ft.) to Sankri (6,400 ft.)




Basic details for the day: On the first day, the drive is approximately 200 km away from Dehradun to Sankri, which will take roughly 10 hours to arrive at its destination. At around 6:30 A.M., the drive begins at the base of the valley at an elevation of 1,480 ft, and ends at the base camp at an elevation of 6,400 ft. The route will take you along the banks of both the Yamuna and Tons rivers, through dense pine tree forests, and past a number of small mountain villages. The length of this drive is an important factor in assisting your body to acclimatise at this altitude. Once you have reached Sankri, you are welcomed with the evening snacks and dinner at our beautiful Trekup India own guesthouse.
Route Description and Terrain Insights: The journey consists of a 200 km trek through the mountains, which serves as a natural bridge between two parts of India. To start from Dehradun, one must ascend quickly up the steep switchbacks of the Mussoorie mountain range before descending into the Yamuna valley on the way to crossing over into the Tons valley at Naugaon. This transition from wide, broad highways to narrow, steeply mountainous roads takes place gradually and will begin to show signs of ruggedness the closer one gets to the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary; therefore the road will be following a cliff that has been cut by the fast-running turquoise waters of the Tons river.
Natural and Scenic Highlights: This drive is renowned for traversing through the Mori Forest, which contains some of Asia's tallest and densest Pine tree forests. As the trek progresses, you will begin to notice an increase in the cleanliness and freshness of the air, which is incredibly resinous at this high altitude. In addition to enjoying the beauty of the Mori Forest, you will also receive your first magnificent views of the surrounding Bandarpoonch and Swargarohini mountain ranges.
Cultural and Local Touchpoints: Throughout this drive, you will also have the pleasure of being able to experience a constantly changing panorama, which will consist of a variety of deep river valleys, expansive green forest canopies, and the first indications of snow-covered mountains.The traditional architecture of the people of Garhwal, called Kath-Kuni, uses an ancient method (going back over 1,500 years) to build homes that are earthquake resistant. The village of Sankri has a carved wooden temple dedicated to Someshwar Mahadev. The traditions of the Sanjulians are shown in their daily lives.
Safety and Acclimatization Guidelines: When you drive from 1,480 feet above sea level to 6,400 feet above sea level, you are putting your body under pressure in a very short period of time. Be sure to drink at least 3-4 liters of water while you drive, as it is important to stay hydrated. Upon arriving in Sankri, you should not sleep immediately after your arrival. Instead, take a quick 20-minute walk around Sankri before going to bed. This will help your body get used to the less oxygenated air and get your blood circulating properly.
Experience Notes by our trekkers who completed this trek: The Jaunus and Rawat communities are often described as having very warm and welcoming personalities which makes the population well-resourced in physical strength and resiliency as well as soft-spoken's. The beginning of the day will most likely start with a reflection on the Basecamp in Sankri. This is a place where many trekkers will come together with local guides and mule drivers and share stories with each other over a warm drink; this will allow for a sense of comradery to build between them before actually setting off on the trek.
Camp Information & Logistics: On the first night of your trek you will be staying either at a homestay that has been built of wood (traditional) or possibly in a guest house that has been converted into a homestay and will give you a home away from home feel; this will provide a warm place to stay during the cool night time temperatures. Another important factor to keep in mind is that Sankri is considered to be the last town that you will be able to get most logistics from; the mobile networks typically have poor reception after you leave the Purola region as well as having electricity outages being common in the area; therefore it is important to have all batteries charged (including for your camera) before arriving in Sankri.
Practical tips for trekkers: Since there are no ATM machines in Sankri, it is important to bring enough money from Dehradun to cover any possible purchases and/or tips; and try to take the left hand side of the vehicle when you travel through and after passing through the valleys and enjoy the best views of the mountain/hill as well as to keep an extra fleece jacket in your daypack; because once you get to the shady forest areas, the temperature drops significantly and you will appreciate having an extra fleece jacket with you to help keep you warm.
Bali Pass Trek Photos and Videos
The Bali Pass Trek features great sights along the trail such as snow-covered forests, beautiful summit views, campsite life, and experiences while trekking. By using real photos and videos along with these images, you will have the ability to find out what your trek and terrain will look like, and give yourself an idea of what sorts of trekking await you before leaving for your Bali Pass Trek.
IP
hotos
















IV
ideos
Bali Pass Trek Reviews and Experiences
IVideo Reviews
The Bali Pass Trek has real trekkers who tell their stories about how the trek feels on the trail. In this section, you will learn what other trekkers say about the snow, the campgrounds, the quality of food, the safety, the trek leaders, and their experience with Trekup India.
These stories help you see what it is actually like to be on trekking, what the summit will be like, and how beautiful it is to watch the sunrise from the top of the mountain. By reading real experiences, you will be able to trust, answer any common questions you may have, and properly plan your Bali Pass Trek with Trekup India.
Best time for Bali Pass Trek: Season by season guide
The Bali Pass Trek has two separate time periods which enable trekkers to cross the mountain but each time period provides a completely different experience of the high mountain area. The Pre-Monsoon season (late May to June) is the prime time for snow enthusiasts; during these months the pass extends a thick white blanket which enables exciting snow descents while the deep snow drifts and freezing temperatures at campsites present challenges. The Post-Monsoon period which lasts from September to mid-October provides photographers and trekkers with the best times to capture stable outdoor scenes. The monsoon clouds disappear which creates extremely clear weather that provides the best views of the Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch mountain ranges combined with their deep blue sky background. The snow melts away to show the rough scree and rocky Col area which allows for better weather forecasting but the technical crossing at 16,200 feet becomes more secure than during the unpredictable monsoon period which lasts from July to August.
Bali Pass Trek: Month by Month Breakdown
The Bali Pass Trek requires month-by-month analysis which includes detailed descriptions of its terrain and weather patterns and specific challenges faced by trekkers.

Advice by our Expert Team-
Our Expert trek leaders and trek guides are well known about the trekking trails with the adverse weather conditions at higher altitudes and they know how to deal if any uncertainty arises. They have years of experience in trekking adventure so on this, they will suggest or guide you with some advice.
1. Prioritize Acclimatization: Stable weather in the spring and autumn makes it easier but never rush to the trek. There is a chance of AMS problems occurring due to dry cold so be prepared, take precautionary measures with yourself.
2. Proper Layering: Temperature fluctuates instantly, especially on the higher altitude, so layering should be proper (base, mid and outer) is critical for managing sweat and preventing the cold.
3. Premium Boots: Make sure your boots are long lasting and well broken or used before your trek starts. The risk of foot injury and blister from the new boot can end your trek journey
4. Hydration: It's advisable to drink 3 to 4LT/day. Because of high elevation and exertion, you need constant intake of fluids to overcome the effects from AMS.
5. Pace Yourself: Walk at a comfortable pace using what is called the mountaineers shuffle. This will conserve your energy and help you manage your breathing.
6. Protect Against UV Rays: Use High-Quality UV Sunglasses (Cat 3 or Cat 4) to protect your eyes from snow blindness, and use high SPF Sunscreen on your skin to protect it from sun damage.
7. Healthy Consumption: Food should consist of small amounts consumed frequently and contain a lot of nutritious ingredients and minerals. This will provide you with the sustained energy needed for trekking at high altitudes.
8. Safety: Pay attention to what your body is telling you when you are feeling AMS Symptoms. Should you believe you might be suffering from AMS, report it immediately and prepare to descend. Descending is the quickest treatment you can receive.
How to Plan Your Travel for Bali Pass Trek
Are you excited to start your adventure for Bali Pass Trek? The travel journey starts from Dehradun where all the trekkers reach & move towards Sankri. In this section we will guide you how to plan & proceed your travel journey for Bali Pass Trek. From your home town to pickup point Dehradun, we guide you with all the necessary means of transport for a smooth and adventurous journey. You can opt various means of transport like flight, train & bus to reach your pickup point at Dehradun.
Modes of transport To Reach Dehradun (The base pickup City)
There are various means of transport to reach at your pickup point via flight, train & bus with variation in timings. All the flights, trains & buses have different arrival & departure times. So plan your travel journey accordingly. We have mentioned all the information regarding the travel perspective for your convenience.
1. By Flight (Fastest Means)
The Jollygrant Airport is located 30 km away from the pickup point. There are scheduled, nonstop flights from all major metro cities such as Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), and Bangalore (BLR) etc.These airlines offer direct flights from multiple cities.The timings are subject to change and will vary day by day. You can book your flight one day prior to your travel journey.
Suggestions: Please make sure to arrive early, if you have enough time for your journey you can rent a room at an affordable price in nearby Prince Chowk, Dehradun.
2. By Train (Dependable Means)
The railway station of Dehradun is very close approximately 500-600 Meters from the pickup point. You can cover the distance by walking to the pickup point. The best train services for overnight travel from Delhi (New Delhi Railway Station) to Dehradun:
Suggestions: Ensure to book AC's or Sleeper seats in advance of your travel during winter season.
3. By Bus (Affordable Option)
The ISBT of Dehradun is 5.7 km away from the Prince Chowk, Dehradun. Buses are well air-conditioned like Volvo, Sleeper, and Non-AC buses with departures mainly from Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Bangalore and other cities. The timings are subject to change and will vary day by day.
Buses from ISBT Kashmiri gate Delhi to Dehradun runs on a frequent basis starting from early midnight 12:00 and taking (5-7 hrs) to reach Dehradun through Redbus, MakeMyTrip, Goibibo and other UTC buses. Now the timings are quite short because there is an open highway which might take 1-2 hrs short as compared to the normal route. After reaching the ISBT Dehradun, you have many options like auto, cab or tempo to reach Prince Chowk, Dehradun.
Suggestions: Consider using an overnight air-conditioned Volvo/ac sleeper bus service to reach early morning (5.00 am to 6:00 am).
How to reach trek base Sankri from pickup point Dehradun
From Dehradun, it is approximately 200 Km and takes 9 -10 hours by road. While travelling from Dehradun to Sankri you will cross Kempty fall - Mussoorie, we will halt here for around 30 minutes for breakfast, after Mussoorie you will drive along river Yamuna till Naugaon. After Naugaun we will reach Derika - Purola where we will halt for Lunch with a scenic Purola valley view. After having lunch you will head towards Sankri. On the way we will cross Mori and from Mori drive will be along the tons river.
Means of transport from Base city Dehradun to Campsite Sankri
1. Trekup India Vehicle:
If you book with the Trekup India, transportation depends on the number of trekkers according to their size, vehicles will differ like tempo traveler, bolero, innova or mini bus. Our cab picks you from Prince Chowk, Dehradun & drops you at Basecamp Sankri safely. Our vehicles are well maintained & hygienic for your travel journey.
Here are the pickup details from the base city Dehradun (If you opt our transport facility):
- Pickup Point: Prince Chowk (Near Railway Station, Dehradun)
- Pickup Time: 6:30 AM
- Drop Location on Last Day: Prince Chowk (Near Railway Station, Dehradun)
- Drop Time for Last Day: 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM (expected)
2. Public Transport Bus:
You can opt for a public transport bus early in the morning to reach base camp Sankri on time for the next day's trek. But make sure you are particular with the bus time in the morning as there are very limited buses between 5:30 AM to 7:30 AM. There is no bus after this so try to pick a bus early from Dehradun.
3. Private Taxi/Cab:
If you miss your bus from Dehradun, another way to reach Sankri is by taxi/cab. You can book a taxi/cab on a sharing basis with a shared price. But make sure that your timing is matched with the taxi timing as the number of taxis are very limited in the morning and generally operated early in the early morning from 5:00 AM onwards.
Tips for Mountain Drive
Whenever you are planning to trek on the mountains, health plays a crucial role. Your main motive on any trek is to be physically and mentally healthy. Here are all the important travel suggestions that you are going to face on your travel journey.
- Motion Sickness: Take medication Dimenhydrinate (prescribed by doctor) - 30 minutes before your journey starts and make sure to sit in the front seat of the taxi.
- Punctuality: Being a wise person, always be on the time whether you are on the camp site or on the trek.
- In hand Case: Have an adequate amount of cash because you never find any ATM at a nearby location.
- Proper Hydration: Always take the water and fruits throughout your travel to avoid dehydration & other health related issues.
- Charge: Make sure that all electronics / power banks are fully charged before being stuck in a long taxi ride, as there are not many charging stations available on the route.
- Check luggage: always make sure to check your luggage when you are on the trek or during the trek.
Day 2 - Day 5 (The Trek Days)
After reaching the basecamp Sankri on Day 1, its time to start your trek journey from Day 2, base camp Sankri to Dharkot by covering a distance of 16 Km completed in 1.5 hrs and from Dharkot to Seema a trek of 4Km takes place after reaching the Seema campsite there are some activities & hot meal for all the trekkers. On Day 3 from Seema to Rainbasera a distance of 10 km in 6 - 7hrs, then on Day 4, Rainbasera to Ruinsara Tal distance of 7 km covered in 4 - 5hrs. On Day 5, trek from Ruinsara Tal to Odari by covering a distance of 4km in 3 - 4 hrs by having all the meals completely at the designated campsite. On Day 6, after having breakfast our trek from Odari to Bali Col Camp starts with a distance of 5 Km in 6 - 7 hrs spending some time at the Bali Pass Summit by having the packed lunch and then returning to the Bali Col Campsite in the evening. On Day 7 from Bali Col Campsite to Lower Dhamni with a distance of 14 Km in 10 hrs approx. then on the last Day 8 starts with the delicious breakfast at Lower Dhamni and packed lunch will be provided for the Dehradun drive after reaching to Janki Chatti our Trekup India taxi will pick you from Jankii Chatti and drop you Prince Chowk, Dehradun safely on time 08:00 - 09:00 PM expected.
Planning Your Return Journey from Jaan Ki Chatti to Dehradun
Once you have completed the Bali Pass Trek, returning should be overwhelming with good memories, pictures and new friends on the trek. Our Trekup India vehicle will pick you from the base camp Janki Chatti and leave you at the dropping point Prince Chowk, Dehradun. If you have already opted for transport with us.
Suggestions: Book your return transport after 10.00 P.M & for security you should also keep a buffer of 1-2 hours for your return journey in case there might be delayed due to traffic, land slides or vehicle breakdown.
Return From Dehradun to your Hometown
We have mentioned details of various means of transport like flight, train and bus with the estimated timings, so book accordingly with your preferred time. Below mentioned data helps you to choose and book for your return journey.
Note: The timings are subject to change and will vary day by day. Also the mentioned timing is written in 24 hours format.
By Flight / By Train
There are a number of flights and trains departing from Delhi to various designated cities on time. On the whole, you can book your flight or train from Delhi as there are many availability of flights and trains directly to your hometown.
Suggestion: Try to travel by bus to Delhi and in Delhi you can further book your train/ flight to your hometown.
By Bus
Here is the list of buses departing from Dehradun to Delhi with their departure and estimated arrival timings. Makesure you book your further travel after reaching Delhi according to the below mentioned time.
Safety Aspects and Emergency Exit for Bali Pass Trek
1. Understanding Trek Safety
Your trek leaders and trek guide have years of experience in getting you to the summit but most importantly back to safety. Trekking at high-altitude requires a huge amount of respect for the mountains and therefore there is a correct, safe way of doing things throughout, especially on a challenging trek like Bali Pass. This responsibility starts with full understanding of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) prevention, a strict adherence to the gradual ascent plan, and absolute understanding of emergency procedures. Your ability to follow safety procedures will determine the success and enjoyment of the trek.
2. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS) is the result of the body being unable to adapt lower levels of oxygen pressure (*hypoxia*) at high altitudes (usually over 8,000 feet). The risk is that untreated AMS will progress to High Altitude Encephalopathy (HACE) or High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) if the person keeps trekking higher in a state of unequipped acclimatization.
Important Symptoms of the Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS):
Mild AMS:
- Headaches are the most significant and common sign.
- Nauseous feeling, lack of desire to eat, and general tiredness.
- Poor sleep (insomnia).
Severe AMS (HACE warnings):
- Difficulty balancing and trekking straight (unable to walk a straight line - "heel-to-toe" test).
- On-going severe headache that can't be helped with medication.
- Confusion or some alteration in understanding.
Severe AMS (HAPE warnings):
- Unable to breathe without feeling short of breath.
- Persistent cough with wet/sputum or sometimes pinkish-tinted frothy mucus.
- Excessive tiredness and feeling of heavy pressure in the chest area.
Precautionary Measures of AMS
1. Ascent Gradual
- The 8-day itinerary from Sankri to Janki Chatti has been set up to allow for acclimatisation. You are advised not to skip camps and rush up the mountain.
- The principle of Trekking High and Staying Low at the Base Camp helps you get acclimatised.
2. Hydration and Nutrition
- You need to drink 3-4 litres of water every day. If you become dehydrated, it will only make any AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) symptoms worse.
- You should continue to drink a lot of water, even when you don't feel thirsty. At the campsite, you will also be provided with a high-carbohydrate diet which will give you the energy to acclimatise.
- Do not drink alcohol or caffeine.
3. Pacing and Movement
- Use the Trekker's Shuffle to keep a slow and consistent pace. Do not waste energy on speed and frequent stops.
- Use trekking poles to maintain your balance and to absorb some of the pressure on your joints when doing the long descent on day four.
- Always try to remain in sight of your friends and the guide when out trekking.
4. Medication
- Talk to your Doctor regarding the use of Diamox (Acetazolamide) to help alleviate AMS.
- Discuss starting this medication one or two days before reaching altitude if it is prescribed over a prescription.
- Remember to carry any personal prescription medications and basic pain relief (for example Ibuprofen) in your day pack.
3. Emergency Response and Evacuation
The Emergency Response System for Bali Pass Trek is a descent-first emergency response system for the high-altitude risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) and extremely cold winter weather. The trail follows 16,200 ft and cannot be accessed by any vehicles, and therefore the system uses a multi-stage evacuation procedure. This involves stabilisation at the location with portable oxygen. Transportation down to the road-head at Sankri is done using either a mule or a stretcher. At this point four-wheel drive (4x4) vehicles transport those in need of medical assistance to Purola or Dehradun. Critical incidents requiring helicopter transport/evacuation are coordinated through the SDRF (State Disaster Response Force). This survival network relies on cooperative effort by qualified guides, local message runners, and the services of the Sankri community.
Action Plans: High Altitude Emergency
1. Immediate Action: If any member shows signs of moderate altitude sickness (e.g., a very bad headache, vomiting, and loss of coordination), stop immediately and let the Trek Leader inform. First, supply the member with oxygen (if available) and start going downhill. The guide's decision on whether or how far down to go, is final.
2. Evacuation Plan: Evacuate downwards to Sankri. A casualty will be assisted/carried on a stretcher by the trekking group's support team to the village, and then to the vehicle from there.
3. Medical Support: The nearest major medical service provider is the Community Health Centre (CHC) at Purola, or hospitals in Dehradun, which may take 6-10 hours to access from Sankri, therefore a rapid descent is crucial.
4. Communication: The trail beyond Sankri has no mobile network access. All communications must be done over the Trek Leader’s satellite phone/radio, so do not count on your personal telephone for emergency communications.
4. Trekkers Responsibility for the Trek
1. Personal Health and Honesty:
- Report Symptoms: You must report any illness symptoms to your trek leader or guide as soon as they occur. Symptoms include headache, nausea or any other uncharacteristically extreme fatigue. Do not attempt to conceal these symptoms so that the group will not be held up due to your illness symptoms.
- Fitness: You are responsible for preparing yourself physically for the trek and ensuring that you have consulted with your physician regarding the effects of altitude, vaccinations you may require, and the proper medications you may require as a result of altitude treks.
- Hydration: You are responsible for consuming your daily requirements of water (3-4 litres). Expect and do not wait for your guide to remind you to hydrate, as you are responsible for doing so.
2. Gear & Equipment:
- Mandate kit: Ensure you have the appropriate gear and equipment for the trek; this includes wearing clothes that are appropriate for the weather; layers for cold; and using well broken-in boots.
- Headlamp Readiness: You should carry an operational head lamp, and charge it before the trek. You should also carry extra batteries and keep sensitive electronic equipment and batteries warm to prevent them from draining due to cold conditions.
- Personal First Aid Kit: It's a good idea for you to carry a small personal first aid kit with you. Basic supplies should include band-aids, blister treatment, antiseptic, and any prescription medications.
3. Conduct on the Trek:
- Follow Instructions: Follow the trek leaders instructions regarding pace, route, camp protocols and the use of safety equipment such as microspikes or trekking poles.
- Maintain group integrity: To maintain group integrity, do not travel solo on any trail or trek; always stay in sight of the group and be with the designated guide.
- Leave no trace: To reduce environmental impact, you must properly dispose of any non-biodegradable items (plastic packaging, drink bottles, etc.) and not pollute local water sources. Remember to respect the natural environment by respecting the plants and animals found in the area.
4. Teamwork & Respect
- Respect Local Cultures: Be conscious of the customs, way of life, and religious sites of the people who live near the trails and do not interfere with their lives.
- Support Other Trek Participants: Encourage other trekkers by giving them advice when necessary. Notify a guide if you think a teammate is in distress or danger. A team that cares for each other is a safer team.
5. Emergency Exit of the Bali Pass Trek
Although the Bali Pass trek is considered difficult, it does carry an increased risk for altitude exposure due to the high altitude of approximately 16,200 feet. The emergency response plan is based on rapid descent in controlled fashion as this is the only way to treat severe forms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). The only definitive emergency exit point is a vertical descent to the trailhead located at Sankri at an elevation of approximately 6,400 feet where ground transportation can be arranged to a proper hospital in Dehradun which involves an additional road journey of 8 to 10 hours. Therefore, the planning of safety measures must include the fact that the hospital located in Sankri is limited to basic medical care.
Major Emergency Exit Links –
An Emergency Exit for the Bali Pass trek has a defined safety chain of transition from an isolated trail system to local Emergency Public Safety resources (Police and Hospitals), occurring during the critical descent down to Sankri.
1. Primary evacuation point - Sankri Village
Sankri at approximately 6,400 feet above sea level is the gateway to Public Service for Police, Hospitals and the start of any official rescue attempts.
- Evacuation Phase: About a 4-6 hour descent (Self-evacuated) will occur from 16,200 feet to Sankri, where use of the Police/Hospital network will not be possible and will be able to be accessed by a vehicle.
- Transfer Phase: Upon arrival into Sankri, the patient will be placed into a pre-arranged vehicle which will create the formal activation of the Safety Chain for Public Service.
2. Hospital and Medical Exit Plan
All medical plans are designed around the extended transport of the Patient to Critical Care in order to achieve an optimal outcome for the Patient. Local Emergency Services are minimal and cannot provide adequate care.
- Government Hospital (Jakhol): Emergency Area is approximately 8 km from the scene: Providing limited emergency stabilization services and unsuited for critical care.
- Community Health Centre (Purola) (approx 23 km): Initial delivery point for continued stabilization and transfer-related documentation to proceed to the next course of action. 1-2 hours to transport from the scene to the hospital.
- Definitive Care Related to Severe Emergencies: For severe emergencies, (such as HACE, HAPE, and Major Trauma) the location for definitive care is a Multi-Speciality Hospital located in Dehradun approximately 200 kilometres away.
3. Police Station & Official Protocol
The Police Network is responsible for ensuring legal compliance and overseeing all Search/Rescue Coordination and Accident Documentation.
- Reporting & Documentation: The nearest Official Police Post, typically located within the Purola Tehsil, is the point where the Trekking Agency is required to report all accidents, deaths, and missing trekkers. The jurisdiction of the Police is essential to establishing any Official Process, including issuing an FIR and providing the Death Certificate.
- Search & Rescue (SAR) Coordination: In instances where a trekker cannot be found or contacted, the Local Police Department utilises the District Emergency Operations Centre (DEOC) located in Uttarkashi (Send Urgent Requests to DEOC via 1077) to coordinate anything beyond just locating those listed as missing; the Local Police Department may also involve SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) Teams, as well as request Military and/or Air Support, if available.
- Role on the Trail: One crucial distinction to be aware of is that for all practical purposes, the Local Police Department does not inspect the Trail nor does it provide 24-hour rescue support to injured trekkers on the Mountain; their primary function is Administrative and they provide SAR Coordination after the incident has occurred and has been reported, via a trekking agency from Sankri.
The Essential Bali Pass Trek Packing List: Pack for Adventure & Safety
Are you excited for your Bali Pass Trek? Our expert trek leader will provide a packing list that is easy to carry and remember. From their experiences and years of expertise working in high altitude, they have created a packing list from head to toe to provide you with a simple and safer option to protect you from the high altitude sickness. Packing for your trek is all about safety and your performance. As a trek leader and mountaineer with years of experience leading the high altitude trek several times, we have seen the gear plays an important and life saving role to the trekkers. So we created a packing list for your convenience while you are planning for the trek. Below we have mentioned packing philosophy, strategic gear list and important tips to remember while you are planning for the higher altitude trek.
Packing Philosophy: Prepare for extreme
We believe essential over extras. Always avoid excessive packing weight, but should have at least three non-negotiable gear categories:
- Extremity Protection: Must have UV blocked sunglasses (the only way to protect against snow blindness), waterproof gloves, and a warm balaclava/cap to protect your most exposed areas.
- Layering System: Utilize multiple layers of synthetic or wool insulation clothing (acceptable, no cotton) to manage body temperature and moisture to prevent chilling.
- Waterproof Footwear: Durable waterproof trekking boots at least mid-calf are required so your feet and ankles remain protected on snow and ice.
Strategic & Non-Negotiable Gear list for the Trek
1.Major gears: The frontline of protection
| Item | Characteristic Feature | Pro-tip |
|---|---|---|
Waterproof, Ankle-Height Trekking Boots | These are high quality boots with stiff rubber soles that prevent water entry. | Must be fully broken in. Good with a deep aggressive grip to avoid injury in toe or fingers. |
Trekking Poles (Pair) | Provide 2 additional points of contact for stability on snow / ice and reduce impact on knees while descending. | Use them together to distribute the weight of your pack, this can reduce stress on your knees and ankles. |
Waterproof Gloves (2 pair) | Protects against cold injury. Having two pairs that allows warmth while protecting your hands. | Keep the shell of gloves dry for a waterproof layer for handling snow and keep the inner liner for warmth. |
Gaiters (required) | Create a seal between your boots and trousers to prevent snow from entering your boots / sock. | Put your gaiters on as soon as you reach the snowline; avoiding snow wetting your socks / boots minimizes risk for cold injury. |
High-Grade SPF Sunscreen and Lip Balm | Protects against severe sun / wind burn. It is important for exposed skin at high altitude due to reflection from snow. | Reapply sunscreen to face, neck, and ears every 2 hours spent on the snow. |
Sunglasses (Category 4) | Highest level of protection required to protect against temporary blindness (photokeratitis) | Do not remove sunglasses when you are on the snow because snow can reflect 80% of UV light back into your eyes. |
2.Clothing: The layering system
| Category | Item | Specification & Reason |
|---|---|---|
Headwear | Warm Beanie / Balaclava | Must be thick wool or fleece; cover the ears completely. Important in retaining body heat, as a large percentage of body heat is lost from the head. |
Wide-Brim Sun Hat or Buff | Light material (hat) or synthetic tube (buff). Protects face, neck, and scalp from high-altitude UV radiation from the sun. | |
Upper Body | Moisture-Wicking T-Shirts (2) | Choose Synthetic (polyester) or thin Merino wool; short or long sleeve because cotton actively makes you cold and uncomfortable when you sweat. |
Thermal Base Layer (1) | Mid-weight Merino wool or synthetic long-sleeve top. Provides immediate insulation; it will lock in body heat as the starting point of your heat-trapping system. | |
Fleece Jacket (1) | Mid-to-heavy weight (200-300 GSM) fleece or softshell jacket full of insulation. This layer provides the best warmth-to-weight ratio It can be worn alone or under your shell. | |
Insulated Puffed Jacket (1) | Down or synthetic insulation; rated for 0∘C and below. Your main source of heat protection for cold night camping, evening, and the summit push when below freezing conditions are anticipated. | |
Waterproof & Windproof Jacket (1) | Shell material (e.g. Gore-Tex equivalent) with taped seams. Your outer barrier (shell layer) keeps the rain, snow and penetrating wind out from the mountains. | |
Lower Body | Quick-Dry Trekking Pants (2) | Synthetic, lightweight, and preferably stretchable or convertible. Durable for comfortable walking, fast drying after getting wet from rain or snow. |
Thermal Base Layer (1) | Mid-weight thermal bottoms (wool or synthetic). Vital layer of insulation under your trekking pants in cold walking conditions at camp. | |
Waterproof Rain Pants (1) | Lightweight, packable shell pants. These will protect your trekking pants and base layers from getting wet when it's snowing or raining heavily. | |
For Feets | Create a seal between your boots and trousers to prevent snow from entering your boots / sock. | Put your gaiters on as soon as you reach the snowline; avoiding snow wetting your socks / boots minimizes risk for cold injury. |
Trekking Socks (4-5 pairs) | Wool or some kind of synthetic blend (not cotton). 1-2 pairs should be extraordinarily thick for nights. These will manage moisture in your foot to reduce blisters and provide warmth at night sleeping in a bag or in boots! | |
Camp Shoes | Lightweight sneakers, sandals, or slippers. You'll want these to dry out your trekking boots and let your feet rest when at the campsite. |
3.Equipment & Essentials
| Category | Item | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
Backpacks | Main Rucksack (50-60 L) | For Porter. Good frame of posture and hip belt required. |
Daypack (20-30 L) | Daily carry. Must have water, layers, snacks, camera, and gloves in your daily essentials. | |
Sleeping bag & liner | Sleeping Bag (Rated to −10∘C / 14∘F) | Confirm if Trekup India provides a sleeping bag; if you're renting your bag, make sure it is a reputable outfit. |
Sleeping Bag Liner | A liner adds additional warmth and keeps your bag clean. | |
Hydration | Insulated Water Bottles (2x 1L) | CRUCIAL: No hydration bladders (the tube will freeze). Insulated bottles will keep your water from freezing. |
Hydration Tablets/ORS | Make sure you have enough hydration tablets and/or Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) which are important for replacing electrolytes lost at high altitude. | |
Safety & Navigation | Headlamp with extra batteries | Essential for crossing the pass started early in the morning. |
Basic First-aid kit | With plasters (Compeed!), Band-Aids, antiseptic, pain medication, and then any of your personal medications you might need. | |
Personal | Personal toiletries | Toothbrush, tooth paste, biodegradable soap, toilet paper (pack out!), and hand sanitizer. |
Quick Dry Towel | Material should be water absorbent with light in weight and small in size. | |
Power bank | There will be no place to charge devices on the trek. |
4.Essential Documents
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Indians: Aadhar Card, Voter ID, or Driving License.
- Foreigners: Passport and Indian Visa.
- Must Have: Necessary for verification at the Basecamp and Forest Department checkpoints.
- ID Copies (2 copies): Also submitted for the forest authorities for required trekking permits, etc.
- Medical Certificate & Undertaking Form: a form (usually provided by your operator- Trekup India) signed by an MBBS registered doctor confirming that you are fit for high altitude trekking.
Note: Please keep your photo identities on waterproof or ziplock bags to avoid it from rain or snow.You all need to verify your identity when your trek starts.
Cash: To avoid any inconvenience during the trek, make sure to carry some cash for your personal expenses. (No ATMs available)
5.Important tips by the trek leader (from their experience)
1. Pack Light Guidelines:
- Three Second Rule: If you can’t immediately think of a reason to pack an item, simply don’t pack it.
- Layer Duplication Rule: You cannot pack more than two of the same, heavy layer (e.g., two heavy fleece jackets). A proper layering system will give one item a temperature range.
- Multi-Use Only: Every item should have a minimum of two functions (e.g., balaclava can be a sweat rag, shade your face from the sun, or act as a neck gaiter).
2.Test Everything Rule
- Boot Break-In Rule: Don’t take new boots on a hike unless they have over 50 miles already walked in them. Boots need proper break-in time before using them outside.
- Base System Check: Set up your sleeping system (sleeping bag, liner, pad) in your house, on the day before the trek.
- Pack System Test: Wear your complete layering and set it up in similar cold/wet conditions to find any cold spots and distributed moisture.
3. Luxury Item Rule (The Worth It Extras)
- Comfort Item: Allow yourself one small item which is not a necessity. (ex. good book, tiny bottle of whiskey, small pillow).
- Ear Plugs: These are essential to block noise from the other trekker/ trek activities at the camp site ensuring you get your sleep without interruption.
- Camp Footwear: Lightweight flip-flops, Crocs, or just down booties that you can wear inside the tea house tent. Getting your feet out of your boots is total bliss.
4. Leave No Trace (LNT)
- Carry Everything Out: This is the most important. Nothing goes under the ground or in a fire pit—especially plastic, tin foil, or batteries.
- Human Waste: If there are no bathroom facilities, you need to bury human waste to a minimum of inches deep at least away from any water source or trail. Be sure to pack out toilet paper.
Stay on The Trail: Follow the straight path on the established trail. Widening the trail causes soil erosion and environmental damage.
6.Final Verdict:
Take advice from your doctor regarding the potential risks of high altitude and then verify that your travel insurance will cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation. Before departing, give the contact information of your guides and operators, along with a complete travel itinerary, to a trustworthy friend or family member. You will need to have sufficient local cash separately from your main wallet because there will be no options for electronic payment on the trail. Your safety is your own responsibility. This is preparation advice to help you but by signing the form, you agree to follow all your professional guide's instructions on the trail regarding safety and emergency procedures.
Bali Pass Trek Cost Inclusions and Exclusions
The concept of pricing is the key part of your trekking journey. It defines the value and experience you receive for the price you pay for your trek. For a structured high altitude trek, like Bali Pass operated by Trekup India provides transparency with the cost & amenities provided to our trekker. Inclusions provide clarity in respect to operator's responsibility; essentially every necessary service, logistical support, group equipment, and permit to have a safe and fully supported trek from start to finish while exclusions provide clarity in respect to individual's responsibility, for all expenses related to personal choice (like a porter), necessary contingency items (like insurance), or mandated fees examined outside the package price (like GST).
Total Trek Cost: ₹19,450 / person + 5% GST (Mandatory)
Included in the trek cost
All the items that are included in the trek cost customised by Trekup India are mentioned below with pre, during and post trek support.
1 - Pre-Trek Support by Experienced Trek Coordinators
This is a special component of Trekup India, where a personalized trek coordinator is assigned to each trekker and who makes your preparation easy before coming on a trek, all your doubts, queries, myths are clarified, and you are mentally and physically guided to ensure that you come fully fit for your adventure. Every aspect from what to carry, what exercises need to be done, and how to prepare yourself for the trek, all will be guided by Trekup India’s Experienced Trek Coordinators.
2 - What is included during the trek
The offered cost covers all major essentials that are mandatory for a successful Adventure, such as accomodation, meal, permit, team of experts, trek equipment, safety gears and mules / potters support. We provide you all the services that are involved in the trek. Below find specifics.
Accommodation: 1 Nights accommodation in Sankari village at Trekup India’s self owned property, one of Deluxe property of the region, accommodation will be provided on Quad / multi sharing basis. 6 Nights accommodation in Dome style customised tents of Trekup India on Triple sharing basis.
Meal: Your meals with Trekup India starts with evening tea & snacks on day 01 in Sankri and ends with breakfast and packed lunch on Day 08 in Lower Dhamni campsite. All meals provided by Trekup India are pure vegetarian meals and FOUR meals a day when on trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Tea Snacks and Dinners). The meals are freshly cooked and non repeated with delicious sweet dishes each night.
Permit: All camping and Trekking Permits from Forest Department, full assistance in documentation and formalities will be given by the team Trekup India.
Team of Experts & Professionals:
- Trek Leaders: Qualified and Experienced Trek Leaders to lead your group when on Trek. Trekup India Trek Leaders are AMC, BMC certified and trained for immediate First Aid with search & rescue Course.
- Assistant Trek Leaders: They are super wise under the Trek Leader guidance focussing on the safety, logistics and trekkers engagement.
- Local Guides: Experienced local guide familiar with region & routes. They understand the way of conduct better, especially being locals.
- Support Staff: A team of high altitude including mountain chefs and Helpers to prepare and provide you healthy and freshly cooked meals on your trek.
Trek Equipment: Trekup India provided high quality of trekking equipments for your adventure, all equipments provided on the trek is 100% customised by Trekup India, any equipments provided is tested on high altitude by our mountain experts and thereafter qualified for use of our trekkers, each fabric and designed are carefully chosen.
- Dome Stye Trekking Tents: The sleeping tent we provide is 6/6 ft. in size giving extra comfort for your sleep in the high altitude.
- Sleeping Bags: To provide you warmth, comfort and cosy sleeping.
- Sleeping Mattresses: Warm Form mattresses are provided inside your dome tents.
- Kitchen tent: A designated area at the campsite where all the cooking staff prepare all the meals.
- Dining tents: A large common area where all the meals are ready to be served. It is the social space for enjoying meals together.
- Toilet tents: These are the private space away from the main campsite area to avoid smell and maintain hygiene. We have two separate toilets for male and female.
- Camp Chair/ Table: Portable stools and tables are provided at your campsite.
- Cooking & Service Utensils: All the necessary cooking and serving utensils.
Safety Gears: Trekup India stands proud itself that all our Treks and adventures operated since 1993 are without any single casualty as we take safety of our trekkers and staff on high priority, following are some of the gears that are included in your trek cost.
- Oxygen Cylinders
- First Aid and Medicine
- Stretchers
- BP Machine to regulate your blood pressure
- Oximeters to regulate your oxygen flow
- Health cards to measure your daily BP and Oxygen reading
- Walkies Talkies for Immediate communication
- Micro Spikes
- Gaiters
- Other Safety Equipment such as Helmets, Rops, Ice Axe, Carabiners much more as per technicality of a Trek.
- Porters / Mules Support: Porters / Mules are provided to carry your common trekking gear, rations, trekking equipment and other supplies.
3 - Post-trek Assistance
This section implies with the following -
- Trek Feedback and improvement advice call from your Trek Coordinators.
- How to overcome Trek injuries and settle to normal life.
- Advice and suggestions for Next Adventure Trek.
Completion Certificate:
It is the best way to recognize someone’s adventure journey with a certificate. A well recognized certificate (IMF, ATOAI & Uttarakhand tourism development board) approved is provided to the trekker by two ways:
- Reached at Summit: we are giving certificates of summiteer to those trekkers who have completed their trek at the Summit.
- Incomplete Summit: we also provide our certificate for those who have not reached the final summit due to medical reasons but they are part of the trek.
Bali Pass Trek Difficulty: An Honest & Detailed Guide
The Bali Pass is considered an advanced, high-altitude trek more suited to experienced trekkers than beginners. The overall summit is an overwhelming new height of 16,200 ft. above sea level; therefore, you must have top-level physical stamina and mental fortitude to trek this challenging trail on summit day. Summit day involves trekking across narrow snow-covered ridgelines and trekking down steep slopes (between 60-70 degrees) directly off loose scree. There are also significant vertical elevations and even more challenges because of the remote Garhwal wilderness and the unpredictable monsoon rainfalls. All of these conditions can quickly transform rock trails into dangerous, slick terrain for trekkers. You will need to have a strong desire and inclination for an adventure, along with a considerable cardiovascular training program, and strong skills in high-altitude acclimatization, in order to succeed on this trek.
Bali Pass Trek Difficulty: A Factor-by-Factor Analysis
The analysis of the Bali Pass Trek has shown that the overall difficulty rating is not only related to the physical fitness and endurance required but is also a technical and mental challenge that requires a unique skill set.
1. Terrain: High Altitude Geology
- The Trail: starts in a very quiet area of old-growth pine and deodar forest that transforms into a very colorful glacial moraine with very jagged ridges. The most technical part of the Trail is going from Odari over to the Pass, which includes navigating on very thin knife-edge ridgelines and very steep snow fields.
- The Challenge: The Summit Day on the descent from the Pass on the Yamunotri side is a nearly vertical descent of approximately 60 - 70. Navigation along the loose scree and glacial ice will require you to have excellent footwork and, in some cases, micro-spikes and/or ice axes.
- Honest Take: The terrain is not forgiving; having one misstep on the descent may result in a very traumatic slide. You must be comfortable with exposure and understand it.
2. Altitude: Manageable but not Negligible
- The Stats: You ascend from Sankri to the summit of Bali Pass at 16,200 ft. in a few days.
- The Challenge: At around 5,000m, there is much less oxygen than at sea level. The ascent from Odari Base Camp to the summit of Bali Pass is a very steep grind, and the lack of oxygen will challenge your lungs and heart rate.
- Honest Take: The itinerary typically includes time spent acclimatizing at Ruinsara Tal, but the difference between 4,000m and nearly 5,000m is a big adjustment for your body. If you have never trekked to high altitudes before, it will feel like you have to deal with increased weight of the air on your body.
3. Weather: Unpredictable Beauty
- The Conditions: The Garhwal Himalayan Region is famed for its micro-climates. An example, you can start the day in sunshine and find yourself in complete white out by lunchtime.
- The Challenge: Monsoon breaks can be a double-edged sword; although there may be some clear weather, the mud created by the rain/melted snow, will make the muddy forest and rocky sections on the higher elevation very slippery. In the shoulder seasons (May or Oct.) fresh snowfall may completely obscure the trail making it very difficult to navigate.
- Honest Take: Be ready for very cold nights, even as cold as -10°C. The weather is totally out of your control so it can change from a hard trek to impossible within a few hours.
4. Duration and Remoteness: The Mental Aspect
- The Stats: A long trek of about 60 to 70 km, it takes approximately 8 to 9 days to complete.
- The Challenge: After you leave the village of Seema, there isn't anything left of civilization. There isn't any cell phone reception and there is no short/easy way to get back out. The closest rescue would take several days of trekking before you'll ever reach them.
- Honest Take: Around the fifth or sixth day you will start to feel the effects of mental fatigue. Camping in the tent, cold, and repeatedly trekking are exhausting you. You will require more mental gears to be able to switch back and forth between enjoying the scenery to being in a very focused and purely survival mode while crossing the Bali Pass.
So, is the Bali Pass Trek Difficult? The Honest Verdict
Yes, Bali Pass Trek is definitely not easy. It is called a crossover trek because it requires a much larger jump in ability than usual Himalayan treks. Once you are done with trekking it seems like a trail that starts in an isolated place, you will find yourself on top of a mountain at almost 16,200 ft. above sea level. The difficulty of the trek does not only come from how steep the incline will be, but also how difficult and unpredictable the types of surfaces you will be trekking or how far vertically down you will be required to go. This trek requires both mental grit and a good level of physical fitness as you will have to deal with being in thin air and sudden changes in weather (due to monsoons), which can quickly change the way a mountain looks and acts.
The Beginner - Friendly Myth
A common misinterpretation about Bali Pass is that it is a trek for beginners because it is located near the calm and gentle Har Ki Dun Valley. Because of this, it may be thought by many that both treks have similar degrees of difficulty and therefore have a level of technicality that is close to identical at both base camps. While the first few days of trekking may seem to create a sensation of remoteness due to gentle and soft forest floors to trek on, they quickly transition into a busy environment of broken glacial moraines and unstable boulder fields. The primary testing of both of these types of treks is stamina for most beginners, whereas for Bali Pass, you will need to use mountain sense, which means that you need to know how to navigate your way through different terrain without using a trail and how to manage mid to high altitude exposure, where if you make a mistake it can be very dangerous.
The Summit Push: The Real Test
As the ultimate test for every trekker out there, this trek is marked by its most grueling experience – a 12-hour, gut-wrenching trek through the dark of night from 3 AM (alpine start). The key here is to make sure you have enough time to cross the snow before it becomes too soft, and to that end, you will have a knife-edge ridge to cross beneath your feet, which will have to be illuminated with only a headlamp. After you reach the summit it's time to head back down to Yamunotri, a very steep descent of 70 degrees over loose rocks and changing weather. For those who are well prepared, the descent provides a thrilling/chaotic ride down. But for those who are not fully prepared, the inability to use your knees or the effort of draining air from your body during the descent will make it challenging to get there.
Who is this Trek Really for?
1. A Himalayan Trekker: Designed for those no longer new to trekking, with a minimum of 2–3 high-altitude treks (above 13,000 ft) under their feet, this trek requires individuals who are already comfortable with the physical effects of high altitude (lack of oxygen) and can adjust to the rhythm of multi-day treks. This is for the adventure enthusiast who has trekked through the beautiful meadows in Kedarkantha or Manali and now wants to experience the thrill of an all-rope challenge in the wilderness.
2. An Athlete: For the physically elite trekker, with an obsessive commitment to maintaining their fitness level, this trek requires an exceptional level of cardiovascular ability lung capacity, exceptional eccentric strength in their legs and stable knees, all of which will allow them to successfully complete this 16,200 ft ascent and immediate drop of 4,000 ft over extremely uneven (rocky) scree and snow without compromising their stamina.
3. The Aspiring Mountaineer: For those trekker wanting to gain experience in mountain trekking but not ready to complete a full trekking expedition, the aspiring mountaineer is the best of both worlds: you'll use techniques like microspikes for traction, navigate difficult ridges, and learn to tame the power of glissading. If you enjoy a nice trek that challenges you to utilize your hands for balance and your brains for navigating, then this will be a good fit.
4. The Soulful Seeker: This trek is for individuals who dislike the touring aspects of trekking. As much as Har Ki Dun is popular, the trail to Bali Pass is mostly untracked and peaceful. For those explorers seeking the legendary Ruinsara Lake, observing the 300-year-old wooden heritage of the village of Osla, and meeting the Yamunotri at the end of the trail while avoiding the crowd of pilgrims that trek on conventional routes.
Honest Comparison with other treks
1. Bali Pass vs. Har Ki Dun: The contrast between Bali Pass and Har Ki Dun may be likened between an intro to a boss fight: one is a nice, scenic, laid-back stroll through beautiful mountain valleys while the other is an uphill battle to get to another mountain valley. At Har Ki Dun, you are on the floor of the valley and experience a lot of relatively gentle trekking through scenic forests and meadows 11,700 feet above sea level. At Bali Pass, you are thirty-one hundred feet from the floor of the valley, and at 16,200 feet above sea level, are experiencing much less beautiful scenery and are at least thirty to forty degrees colder than you would be if you were at Har Ki Dun.
2. Bali Pass vs. Sandakphu: The contrast between Bali Pass and Sandakphu may be compared to the contrasts between staying at a lodge and being in the wild: the key differences include comfort; terrain; and difficulty. Sandakphu is a tea-house trek that is heated at night and treks on flat, wide jeep tracks while viewing Mt. Everest. On the other hand, Bali Pass is an outdoor wilderness experience where you will be sleeping in tents and trekking on glaciers. Both are very scenic; however, Sandakphu is a place you can visit to experience a very nice and comfortable life at 11,929 feet above sea level and Bali Pass is a place you will need to rely upon your strength and endurance to survive at an altitude of 11,929 feet.
3. Bali Pass vs Pangarchulla: Pangarchulla consists of an extreme ascent/descent (one, difficult sprint averaging ~600m up and down), while Bali Pass encompasses multiple ascents/descents (approximately 1,000m elevation over 12–14 km) that require much more endurance (longer distance between valleys). Pangarchulla is excellent for developing skills necessary for trekking on snow; however, Bali Pass has a much more difficult descent (~1,200m) than the ascent. Consequently, overall performance for these treks will depend on both physical conditioning and skill level (i.e., technical balance).
Verdict: The overall scores of Har Ki Dun & Sandakphu would be 3 or 4 because they are considered to be low altitude, beginner-friendly, and overall safe. The summit day at Pangarchulla ends up with an overall score of 6 because the physical challenges associated with this day are extreme. Conversely, Bali Pass receives an overall ranking of 9 because of its extreme altitude, technical knife edged ridges, and very steep snowy slopes; therefore, making Bali Pass the most difficult but rewarding of the four trekking routes.
Final Advice: Prepare to succeed
In order to not only attain the summit but also experience joy along the way, it will be essential for you to evolve your final preparation from general fitness to conditioning for the mountains. The following is an ideal blueprint of success that emphasizes both your physical fitness level and your technical equipment.
1. Physical Preparation: Engine Building
- Cardio Lung Power: Focus on developing a high intensity, long duration endurance level. For example, run 5 km in less than 30 minutes or ride a bike at a vigorous intensity for at least 45 minutes three times per week in order to maximize the VO2 max that will be required at the pass when there will be approximately a 40% reduction in the available oxygen.
- Knee Saving Leg Strength: The 4,000 ft. descent will be the real knee breaker. Develop the leg strength needed to safely accomplish this by including weighted squats and lunges, as well as performing step downs regularly in your workouts. Building leg strength through strengthening your quadriceps and glutes will provide an excellent shock absorber for the knee joints and help you avoid joint pain and injury from steep downhill sections.
- Balance and Core Stability: When trekking narrow ridges having a stable center of gravity is critical. Incorporate planks and single-leg balance exercises into your core strength workouts. By having a well-developed core, having a heavy pack will not pull you off-balance while traversing technical knife-edge trails or unstable, rocky moraines.
2. Gear Preparation: Your Lifeline
- Waterproof High-Ankle Boots: Out of the question are casual sneakers. You need a quality pair of waterproof trekking boots that provide an adequate level of ground traction (Vibram soles) and provide good ankle support to avoid rolling an ankle on loose scree. It is also important that the boots provide stiffness for kicking into hard snow.
- Traction and Protection: Glacier passes at high altitude are often frozen. You will want to have high-quality microspikes (crampons) for traction on ice and waterproof gaiters to prevent snow from entering your boots. These two items will turn what may be a dangerous fall into an efficient and secure stride.
- The Dual-Pole System: Using two trekking poles is non-negotiable while at Bali Pass. Two trekking poles will alleviate approximately 25% of the impact to your knees during descents, by providing further stabilization while negotiating slippery, vertical snow slopes.
- Layering for Extreme Weather: Temperatures at the pass will drop to -10°C or less at nighttime. You will want to prepare for a three-layer clothing system: A good quality synthetic base layer, a quality down-filled jacket for insulation from the elements, and a hardshell jacket (either waterproof and windproof) designed for maximum wind resistance from the strong winds of the Himalayas.
Fitness Required & Preparation Guide For The Bali Pass Trek
The Bali Pass Trek is classified as an easy to moderate level trek and requires good fitness levels and conditioning in preparation for the trek. As a trekker, you will need to achieve a good level of physical and mental strength in order to perform well on the trek. If you are getting ready to do the Bali Pass Trek, one of the most important aspects in preparation is to build your own fitness level, for your future safety and being healthy. Trekking is a physically challenging adventure for your body, as it takes a good degree of cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and overall fitness. Trekup India suggests that you should engage yourself with the basic exercise, running and walking as part of your fitness. It is important to follow a specialized fitness routine that develops strength, stability, and endurance. By our experienced trek guides and trek leader, every recommendation and advice is practically field tested and aligned with the real demands of mountain trekking. We have divided each guideline into the following sections.
- Training Plan (8- 12 Weeks)
- Cardiovascular Training
- Strength Training
- Breathing Exercises
- Meditation
- Weekly based workout activity
- Gear Preparation for the trek
- Physiological adjustments on the trek
1. Training Plan: 8 - 12 Weeks
A structured 8–12 week training plan designed to build stamina, strength, and endurance for a safe and successful trek.
A structured 8–12 week training plan designed to build stamina, strength, and endurance for a safe and successful trek.
To make your trekking experience memorable and a good one, be ready to prepare with proper planning of cardiovascular, strength, breathing based training and meditation. Your 8-12 week training program includes developing your stamina and strength through 4-5 workout sessions per week. This plan is designed for the following -
- To build your cardiovascular stamina
- To strengthen your muscle group
- To prevent from the injury
- To cope up with the breathing problems
- To keep you focus with calm during the trek
2. Cardiovascular Training
Exercises focused on improving stamina, heart health, and endurance to prepare your body for long trekking days.
Exercises focused on improving stamina, heart health, and endurance to prepare your body for long trekking days.
It is the most vital physical component for trekking that enhances your body's capacity to tolerate different environmental conditions at high altitude.These workout exercises build stamina, endurance, and agility, relative to the intensity of trekking. Here are some cardio exercises that help you to fit for your trekking journey.
1. Walking
- Goal: Walk regularly at least 2-3 km per day, gradually increase your distance day by day.
- Specification: There are many things that you can do to prepare for trekking, and walking with a backpack on the trail represents the most direct stimulation of the different types of actions (movement) that will occur on a trek.
- Focus Shift: While the primary focus of the walking must be the distance (km), the focus should actually shift to Time on Feet (walking). Once you reach a point of comfortably walking continuously for 2-3 km you must move into a mode of challenge and attempt to walk continuously for 60-90 minutes.
- Benefits: Consistent walking allows your ligaments, tendons and joints to withstand the cumulative stresses of walking for 5-8 hours at a time, thereby reducing your chances of developing overuse injuries when trekking.
2. Jogging / Running
- Goal: Jogging and running are another form of endurance exercise, so start slowly building up your tolerance by gradually increasing the number of steps you take each time you jog/run, as well as building up a morning routine.
- Trek Elaboration: Running/jogging is an effective way to quickly increase your body's ability to take in oxygen; the Higher Rate of Oxygen Consumption (VO2 Max).
- Specificity: Include increments of grades on your routes, as running/hiking up a hill assists in developing your climbing muscles and running down a hill develops the eccentric strength of the knee and quad muscles to minimise the impact when descending.
3. Cycling
- Goal: Cycling is an excellent low-impact method that develops strength and builds leg endurance, while producing minimal impact on the joints.
- Specification: Cycling is a great way to develop strength as you can pedal in high-resistance (high tension) for short segments of time that will replicate the power you will require in your legs when trekking up steep hills.
- Trek Focus: Cycling can also serve as a form of active recovery (increased circulation through light pedalling to reduce lactic acid build-up) after heavy strength training and / or hiking days.
4. Weighted Bag Walking
- Goal: Walking with a weighted backpack (made of heavy material such as sand, rocks or concrete blocks) is critical to simulate a proper load and endurance preparation.
- Trek Specification: You should begin this method of training with a light bag (5-10% of your bodyweight) for 1-2 months before adding additional weight until you reach a maximum of 15% of your bodyweight by the end of your training period.
- Integration: Integrate these walking workouts into hilly or uneven terrain with your hiking boots and hiking poles. Training your core and stabilizer muscles (agility) about the changes in your centre of gravity allows your heart to adapt to the increased demands placed on it from an elevated level of circulatory demand. It allows your body to maintain balance.
5. Burpee: Full Body Power & Cardio
The Burpee is a multi-joint, total-body exercise that utilizes power and aerobic conditioning through a sequence of exercises done at high speed. The exercise consists of moving the body from a standing position to the squat position, then to a plank position, usually including a push-up, and finally jumping back to the standing position.
- Main Benefit: The Burpee significantly increases your heart rate in a short period of time, which is an important component of building anaerobic capacity, as well as developing explosive power in the lower legs for steep, difficult hills during long-distance trekking.
- Muscles Used: The Burpee exercises nearly all of the major muscle groups, including: quads, hamstrings, glutes, chest, shoulders, triceps, and core.
- Key Tip: To avoid hip sagging and to help with protecting your lower back, maintain a flat back and engage your core when kicking back into the plank position.
3. Strength Training
Exercises aimed at building leg, core, and upper-body strength to handle steep climbs, descents, and carrying a backpack during the trek.
Exercises aimed at building leg, core, and upper-body strength to handle steep climbs, descents, and carrying a backpack during the trek.
The downhill portions of this trek are very taxing on your knees, and injuries occur frequently on the descent. You will need to build strong legs, in conjunction with a stable core, to prevent injuries from over-straining and over-fatiguing. Below mentioned are some strength based training that helps you when you are going to the trek.
1. Squats
Primary Muscles: Quadriceps, Hamstrings, Glutes, and Calves
Trekking Advantages: Squats promote more strength and endurance in the lower body muscles that power a trek uphill. Strong glutes and quadriceps make climbing easy, while hamstrings control stability and strength while descending.
How to do squats:
- Begin standing with feet shoulder-width apart, with toes pointed slightly outward.
- Lower down with your body by bending your knees and bending at the hips by pushing your hips back, all while keeping your back as straight as you can.
- Lower down as far as you can, ideally until your thighs are even with the ground, then to a height that is comfortable for you.
- Push through your heels, and back to the standing position.
2. Lunges
Primary Muscles: Quadriceps, Hamstrings, Glutes, and Calves
Trek advantage: Lunges promote better balance, flexibility, and stability and help to keep your balance while moving over uneven and rocky trails. Lunges specifically develop the lower body muscles needed to move uphill, as well as descend downhill.
How to do lunges:
- Begin standing upright, with feet hip-width apart, and hands at your sides or on your hips.
- Step forward with one foot, lowering your body until there is a 90-degree angle between your front thigh and your lower leg, and a 90-degree angle between your back leg and lower back thigh.
- Push through the heel of your front foot to elevate your body back to standing position while lowering your back knee closer to the forms as much as possible.
3. Planks
Areas: Abdominals, Obliques, and Low Back
Advantages for Hiking: Planks strengthen your entire core and improve balance & posture which reduces lower back fatigue over long hikes
How to do It:
- Start on your elbows and toes, making a straight line from head to heels
- Tighten your core and hold
- Continue to breathe, while not sagging/arching your back.
4. Russian Twists
Areas: Obliques, Abdominals, and Low Back
Advantages for Hiking: Russian Twists improve rotational stability and core endurance which is important to maintain balance while walking over uneven surfaces or carrying a pack.
How to do It:
- Sit on the ground with your knees bent, and feet flat.
- Lean back just a little so your core is engaged.
- With hands together, twist your torso to one arm's side, and then to the opposite side.
- Repeat to the desired rep scheme.
4. Breathing Exercises
Techniques to improve lung capacity, oxygen intake, and breath control for better performance at high altitudes.
Techniques to improve lung capacity, oxygen intake, and breath control for better performance at high altitudes.
It is a technique used to control the rate, depth and rhythm of respiration to promote physical health and emotional calmmess. The purpose is to control how much breath is taken in and how much is breathed out, therefore training the lungs and the mind to be relaxed when they are fatigued, during steep ascents/descents, etc.
Types of the Breathing Exercises
1. Diaphragmatic Breathing
Diaphragmatic Breathing allows the user to maximally utilize the diaphragm muscle, which raises the tummy area with each inhalation and does not raise the lungs. Thereby using all of the lung to its maximum capacity and bringing in maximum amounts of oxygen.
Benefit: Diaphragmatic Breathing can be thought of as the building block of good quality breathing habits.
2. Pursed Lip Breathing
The goal of Pursed Lip Breathing is to perform a longer than average exhalation time period (at least 2 times longer than you inhaled), or to provide a back pressure during the expiratory phase by creating a tight seal between the lips to prevent air from escaping.
Benefit: This technique provides you with the ability to maintain an open airway for a longer period of time.
3. Nose Breathing (Nadi Shodhana):
This exercise is performed by gently holding each nostril closed with the fingers in an alternating manner, and breathing in and out of the left or right nostrils, respectively.
Benefit: Alternate Nose Breathing is extremely calming and reduces anxiety and stress in a challenging situation; it also creates a balance in the body’s nervous system, which helps improve mental concentration.
4. Box Breathing (Four-Square Breathing):
This method provides an equal count for all four parts of the breath, using a methodical rhythm for inhalation (4), holding (4), exhalation (4), holding (4). Using counting to become mindful of where you are during the process of Box Breathing.
Benefit: Provide an immediate sense of calm and control good for dealing with the acute panic or fear on the trek.
5. Meditation
Practices to enhance mental focus, calmness, and resilience, helping you stay relaxed and positive throughout the trek.
Practices to enhance mental focus, calmness, and resilience, helping you stay relaxed and positive throughout the trek.
Meditation is a practice to mentally train the mind by redirecting your focus from thoughts and feelings to a chosen medium such as breathing or physical sensations. The purpose of meditation is not to stop all thoughts, but to build the ability to observe your thoughts without judgment, leading to mental clarity and emotional regulation while decreasing reactivity and stress response.
Methods:
- Focusing: The practice of focusing your attention on one specific object (e.g. a mantra, a candle, the breath) For example, when the mind wanders, you gently guide it back to the focus.
- Open Monitor Meditation (Mindfulness): The act of being non-judgmental toward whatever comes into your awareness, whether it is internal (thoughts, emotions, sensations) or external (images, sounds).
Benefits of Meditation
- Lower Stress Levels: Meditation helps reduce cortisol, the stress hormone, and can help alleviate anxiety symptoms.
- Stronger Focus Ability: By practicing meditation, we strengthen the neural pathways that allow us to remain focused and flexible cognitively.
- Greater Emotional Regulation: Through practicing meditation, people develop the ability to become aware of and recognize their emotions before acting on them, providing greater emotional stability.
- Better Physical Health: Practicing meditation helps decrease or increase blood pressure, heart rate, and improve quality of sleep.
6. Week Based Workout Activity
A structured, week-by-week workout routine designed to gradually improve fitness, strength, and endurance in preparation for the trek.
A structured, week-by-week workout routine designed to gradually improve fitness, strength, and endurance in preparation for the trek.
For Week 1 to Week 4
For Week 5 to Week 8
For Week 9 to Week 12
For more information and practical approach, you can see our fitness related videos -
| Day | Workout Focus | Week 1 Target | Week 2 Target | Week 3 Target | Week 4 Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Endurance | Sustained hiking or walking with a good grip of boots. | 90 minutes | |||
| Moderate Cardio | Walking, light jogging and cycling by maintaining steady pace where walking is possible | 30 minutes | |||
| Intensity | Stairs, treadmill on incline or hill repeat | 20 minutes |
7. Gear Preparation for the trek
Planning and organizing all essential gear in advance to ensure comfort, safety, and readiness throughout the trek.
Planning and organizing all essential gear in advance to ensure comfort, safety, and readiness throughout the trek.
1. Footwear (Socks and Boots)
Choosing proper footwear is very important. The number of people who stop trekking early due to foot issues has increased. Wearing suitable footwear is one of the main reasons there is a higher percentage of early trek abandonments.
- Trekking Boots: Good-quality trekking boots (mid- or high-cut) not only protect the feet from the environment but also provide stability to the ankle and prevent rolling when walking on uneven terrain. Good-quality trekking boots are made with waterproof membranes (Gore-Tex, for example) to keep feet dry if they come into contact with moisture from the environment.
- Trekking Socks: Trekking socks serve a dual purpose as insulation and the intermediary between your foot and the boot. Synthetics and Merino wool are the preferred materials because they wick moisture away from the skin and keep your feet dry.
2. Backpack (Fit & Packing)
Good fit and packing of the backpack will reduce risk of injury, optimise energy expenditure and allow for rapid access to items needed.
- Fit: A frequent mistake is loading the weight on the shoulders. Correctly fitted backpacks are designed so that most (70-80%) of the weight is carried on the hips with a hip belt and this helps to distribute the load and stress to the larger, stronger muscles of the legs and hips. You will need to learn how to adjust the sternum strap (for shoulder stabilization) and load lifters (straps on top of the shoulder straps) as you train to achieve the most efficient balance while walking.
- Packing: Heavier items should be placed as close to the back as possible, centred between the two shoulder blades to maintain your natural centre of gravity while carrying the backpack. Bulky, lighter weight items that will not be used during the day should be stored in the bottom storage (sleeping bag compartment). Strategic packing increases stability when walking, reducing the chance of muscle strain and unstable gait, especially on steep terrain.
3. Layering: The 3-Layer System
A dynamic three-layering system assists with temperature stability and temperature management. Using a three-layer system limits the risk of overheating and also limits the risk of hypothermia.
- Base Layer: A base layer is used primarily to transport moisture. When you sweat, a base layer moves sweat away from your body and into the air for evaporation. If you wear cotton, your cotton base will absorb moisture, which rapidly decreases your core temperature when you stop exercising because it traps the moisture against your body and creates a "chill factor."
- Mid Layer: The mid-layer forms an insulating air gap around your core. This layer can be made of lightweight and quick-drying fleece, or synthetic or down-filled puffy jackets. When you stop for a short break, you can easily add or remove this layer to help maintain core temperature without stopping for an extended time.
- Outer Layer: The protective outer layer is essential. It should be made of a high-quality, breathable waterproof and windproof shell. The key feature of the outer layer is the ability to let internal vapour (sweat) out of the shell while preventing external moisture (rain or wind) from entering.
4. Trekking Poles (Highly Recommended)
The use of trekking poles increases the use of other muscles in your body when trekking, thus helping to reduce the amount of time you spend getting tired or injured. Trekking poles enhance the walking motion, allowing total body utilization when walking, thus diminishing fatigue and reducing the possibility of injury.
- Height Adjustment: When using trekking poles and adjusting them for height, the elbows should be up at a right angle (90 degrees) when the tip of the pole is on the ground next to the foot. When climbing uphill, the trekking poles should be slightly shorter to provide a better uphill climbing position. When going downhill, the trekking poles should be slightly longer to give you more reach and to provide additional braking ability. Mastering the skill of getting the height adjustment correct is essential for any activity.
5. Warm Accessories
Small, warm accessories are an often-neglected part of preparing for a mountain trek, however, these items are essential for surviving quickly changing mountain weather conditions.
- Head and Neck: Approximately 30% of body heat is expelled through the head; thus, the best (and quickest) way to warm the entire body is with a beanie or hat. A neck gaiter or Buff (which can be pulled over the nose and mouth, thereby warming cold air before being inhaled and provides a compact storage size) has a better fit than a traditional scarf.
- Gloves and Hand Warmers: It is often observed that your hands and feet are the first to be affected by exposure to cold temperatures; therefore, wearing waterproof gloves on the outside will help protect your hands from the cold.
6. Health and medical preparation
- Medical Check: Consult your doctor especially when you are going on a trek at high altitudes. Discuss medication like Diamox for altitude sickness prevention.
- Dental Check-up: Get any necessary dental work done, a toothache on the trail is miserable.
- Vaccination: Ensure all the standard vaccinations are up to date.
- First Aid Kit: Prepare a medical kit on your personal behalf which includes all the important medication that is required in the trek.
- Blister Treatment: Compeer, moleskin and medical tape.
- Pain Relief: Anti-inflammatory or paracetamol.
- Stomach/Bowel: Anti-diarrhoea medication and broad spectrum antibiotic (prescribed by doctor).
For more protection from the external climatic conditions such as rain, heavy snow and cold wind. You can buy the rental gear seven days prior to the trek starts because last minute renting is not confirmed due to size availability. Rental gear involves- double layer waterproof jackets, hand gloves, head torch, poncho, thermos flask water bottles, trek pants, trek pole and trekking shoes at an affordable price. You can rent these gears from our company’s website https://rent.trekupindia.com/ .
8. Physiological Adjustment on the trek
The body’s gradual adaptation to altitude, terrain, and physical exertion to maintain health and performance during the trek.
The body’s gradual adaptation to altitude, terrain, and physical exertion to maintain health and performance during the trek.
Physiological Adjustment refers to an lifesaving adjustment your body goes through as it encounters environmental stresses on your trek. This adaptation is due to the body internally adapting its systems for delivery of Oxygen to tissues, i.e., the body will increase the heart and respiration rates; as you continue at higher elevations in a gradual manner, the body will eventually stimulate the production of more red blood cells. Unlike general physical fitness, Physiological Adjustment is not something that you can develop through training; this adjustment occurs on the trail at the same time you are managing your pace, hydration, safety practices, and so forth. By understanding where the limits of your body are and being able to recognize when they are reached, you will achieve effective physiological adjustment, otherwise altitude sickness can be life-threatening.
1. Alert to your body:
This adjustment is critical, especially for the prevention of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Your body will give you immediate feedback if you listen!
- Actionable Insight: Be aware of any early warning signs/symptoms that you may be experiencing, such as a constant headache, nausea, general fatigue, or appetite suppression. These are the first indicators of AMS.
- Rule for Descent: If symptoms are worsening while resting, then you must descend immediately! Do not ascend when your symptoms decline.
2. Hydration:
High-altitude environments result in rapid fluid loss because of the cold/dry air (respiratory loss) and from increased urine output. When there is less fluid in the blood, it is thicker, making it more difficult for it to carry oxygen to the tissues (muscles) and brain.
- Actionable Insight: Aim to drink 3 to 5 litres of fluids/day (i.e., water, soup, tea). Keeping well-hydrated in keeping the blood fluid, which facilitates efficient circulation for transporting of the limited amount of oxygen available for use during times of extreme exertion/motion (i.e., physical activity).
- Hydration Reminder: Check the colour of your urine. If it is very dark yellow; or orange, then you know you are dehydrated! If the colour of your urine is light yellow or clear, then you are well-hydrated.
3. Maintain your pace
A fundamental principle of climbing is to maintain a consistent speed on the mountain as opposed to trying to climb as fast as possible.
- The Reason It Works: If you start off trekking too hard your body will enter into an anaerobic state or doesn't have enough oxygen to perform aerobic work. As a result, limited amounts of energy glycogen stores quickly, and fatigue sets very quickly. Trekking at a slow and steady rhythm allows your body to conserve oxygen and continue to burn fat for fuel, therefore giving you eight hours of walking ease rather than collapsing after two hours.
4. Focus On Your Journey
Mental fatigue is a bigger contributor to failure than physical exhaustion. Try not to focus on how far you still have to go or how tired your legs feel. Instead, look around and notice all the amazing things -- the scenery, the trees, the sky, the people.
- The Reason It Works: By focusing on the external rewards of beautiful views along with the unique culture of your surroundings, you redirect your brain away from focusing on the discomfort of physical exertion. The physical challenge is just one small part of your whole experience; the real reward is the memory that you are creating and taking with you.
Local Culture & Attractions on the Bali Pass Trek
The Bali Pass is an arduous trek that takes place at high elevation through the historical Tons Valley. It is an experience that is deep and leads one into the spirit of the Garhwal Himalayan mountains. The trek connects two points in time together; the untamed wilderness of these and the ancient living traditions that still exist in the Tons Valley. The trek goes through the old villages of Gangad and Osla where one can see the 300 year old wooden temples and ornamented wooden houses that reflect a society built on the Mahabharata's values. The local community continues to shape their lives around the stories of the Pandavas. There are several significant portions of the trek that may be identified by the environmental features that they contain. For instance, there is the naturally made cave found at Odari, which has many stories related to the cave of the monkey king, Bali; and the sacred waters of Ruinsara Tal, which are almost like mirrors because of their stillness and clarity. This trek culminates spiritually with a visit to the Yamunotri temple, one of the four holiest sites in India (Char Dham), where one treks from the frigid glacial region to the beautiful hot springs that surround the temple.
Nearby Villages and Communities
The trek starts and finishes in the scenic villages that are used as the base camps for the trek which allow trekkers to experience the authentic local life and architecture.
- Sankri Village (Base Camp): Sankri is the primary base for the Bali Pass Trek and is the starting point for numerous other treks including Har Ki Dun. Sankri has traditional wooden and stone houses (many of which were built in the Himachali style). There are a lot of homestays in Sankri so trekkers have direct contact with people from the area.The villagers in Sankri are known for their warmth and friendliness. Certain villagers work as local guides and porters for the trekkers, providing further support for the local economy through trekking.
- Taluka and Gangad: Trekking further into the valley reveals small, remote villages. Gangad is especially notable due to its homes, which are built using a unique construction method called Kath-Khuni that uses alternate courses of timber and stone to create earthquake-resistant buildings. The people of Gangad are primarily self-sufficient through terraced farming and sheep herding.
- Osla (The Final Settlement): At an elevation of 8,500 feet, Osla has the highest concentration of cultural heritage along the entire route. Here, you will find the Siyali ethnic group, which claims direct descendants from the Mahabharata warriors. Osla has a famous temple that is dedicated to Someshwar Devta but has historical roots with Duryodhana. Because Osla is not served by modern roads or electricity, residents continue to make their own wool and depend upon time-honored patterns for seasonal grazing.
- Jaunsari and Bawar Community: The two tribes of the region are Jaunsari and Bawar. They maintain separate cultural identities from the larger Garhwali people; their language, clothing, or social structures all have historical links to the folklore of the Kaurava-Pandava rivalry. The two tribes are known for their incredible hospitality, often welcoming trekkers.
Temple, Monasteries & Sacred Sites
- Mahadev Temples (Sankri and Osla): The architectural and cultural core of the valley is represented by these temples; they are an important place for people to worship Lord Shiva. The temples have been built in a style called Kath-Khuni; they consist of many levels and are made out of wood, and each temple has many intricate carvings depicting a god, or an animal, or a scene from a legend that is associated with that particular god or animal. The temple at Osla is very well known, and it is located on the historical routes of Mahabharata, which makes it an important religious site prior to entering the untouched high wilderness.
- Ruinsara Tal (The Holy Lake): This is a glacial lake that is both a great camping spot and also revered as a sacred site by the local Jaunsari people. The lake is surrounded by beautiful flowering rhododendrons and towering peaks such as Black Peak (Kalanag). Because the lake is thought to be a place where the Pandavas rested during their journey, there are often requests made by trekkers to observe silence and respect for the purity of the water, as it is considered to be a place of divinity.
- Odari (the Cave of Legend): Odari is found on the way to reach the base camp of the pass. Odari translates as cave and it is said, according to local myths, that Bali (the King of the Monkeys or Kishkindha from Ramayana) once meditated here, at this cave, to atone for his past deeds. The cave is the source of the name given to the past and it signifies the change from the human world represented by the villages.
- The Yamunotri Temple: is the last of four of India's Char Dham pilgrimage sites. The temple is built for the Goddess Yamuna at a height of 10,800 feet and is said to be a source of great spiritual energy. The temple also contains the black marble statue of the Goddess, where people offer prayers.
- The Surya and Gauri Kund: The thermal springs of Surya Kund and Gauri Kund, located near the Yamunotri Temple, are natural hot springs. The Surya Kund is extremely hot, providing pilgrims with a way to cook rice and potatoes for prasad (offerings). The Gauri Kund is moderately warm and provides pilgrims with the opportunity for a ritual bath. For a trekker, soaking your feet in the Gauri Kund after a difficult descent from Bali Pass is both a physical and spiritual cleansing experience.
Festivals and Traditions
The cultural landscape surrounding the Bali Pass is made up of numerous traditions related to mountains, with their associated stories influencing the rhythm of life in the high valleys; these are the principle and traditions associated with these events:
- The Legend of the Pandav Nritya: During winter or at other specific times in the year, in accordance with the particular village festival, local people act out the Mahabharat, the great epic of India, in this ceremonial dance-drama style. When they do this dance, they become spiritually entranced and are said to be possessed by the spirits of the Pandavas (the five brothers) and thus bridge the gap between the world of the living and the world of the divine.
- The Grand Bissu Mela: This festival is the largest social event that will occur for the Jaunsari and Bawar community. This event, held each year in April, is celebrated as a result of the spring harvest. The festival is most well known for its display of martial skill (Thoda), where men show their warrior skill (archery) and at the same time, eat together and listen to traditional folk music.
- The Sacred Doli Processions: The Doli Yatra is the processional carrying of the deity Someshwar Devta (protector of the valley) in a beautifully decorated wooden palanquin between the villages of Sankri and Osla. The deity is accompanied along this journey by traditional drumming, (Dhol-Damau).
- Yamunotri's Seasonal Cycle: Goddess Yamuna's journey helps define the religious calendar, as she will be brought home each year on Akshaya Tritiya from Kharsali to the Yamunotri temple; her return home (after Diwali) at Bhai Dooj signifies the end of the mountains' winter.
- Phool Dei Rite: The spring season starts with children celebrating Phool Dei by placing flowers on the doorsteps of their neighbours. It is a gesture of goodwill and represents the abundance of food and flowers from the reawakening of the Himalayan flowers. The community comes together to enjoy the sweet treat of Sai while celebrating the rebirth of plants in the Himalayas.
Local Folklore and Stories
The Bali Pass is surrounded with Pauranik stories and its landscape serves as a physical embodiment of the Mahabharata and Ramayana. To locals, these tales are more than myths; they are the history they live upon in the mountains of their land.
- The Stairway to Heaven: The most famous legend is that of the Pandavas' Mahaprasthana and their final journey through the Himalaya to the heavens. The massive three-step Swargarohini Massif that is easily seen along the trail is considered by locals to be the actual stone steps that the Pandavas walked upon to arrive in heaven. According to local belief, only one Pandava (Yudhishthira) and a dog made it to the top of this massif.
- The Monkey King’s Shelter: The other two camps along the trail and Bali Pass are also derived from the Ramayana. The locals believe that the legendary king Bali (King of Kishkindha) performed meditation and penance in the natural rock shelter at Odari. This was his place of secret refuge as he traversed from valley to valley without being noticed; hence the atmosphere of awesomeness that exists along this route.
- Legend of the Duryodhana Temple: The village of Osla is a cultural oddity in that it was long regarded as the only site of worship by the local community for Duryodhana, one of the main characters in the Epic Mahabharata. Over the years, this has changed to worshipping Shree Someshwar Mahadev (Shiva), but the legends of Duryodhana as a hero continue to exist through the villages' oral traditions.
- Origin of the Goddess Yamunotri: When you pass over the pass, you enter the land of Goddess Yamuna. According to local myth, Asit Muni was a saint that used to live in that area and would daily take bath in both the Ganga and the Yamuna. One day he got too old to travel to the Ganga and a small stream of Ganga water appeared next to the Yamuna so that he could continue to wash himself. His story solidifies the area as having the sacred 'Yamuna-Ganga' connection.
- The Spirit of Himalayan Crows: It is a very common local belief that there is a type of crow that lives at higher elevations near the pass, and that these crows are the guardians of deceased relatives. When you see a crow, you will have good luck in your trek.
Cultural Awareness and Travel Responsibility
When you trek in the Indian Himalayas, you have a responsibility to take care of the environment as well as the culture of the people who live there.
- Treat Sacred Places with Respect: You should treat all temples, shrines, and sacred sites (like Yamunotri Temple) with respect. If you wish to take photographs of the local people, please ask first. Also, don't take photographs in a place of worship unless you have been granted permission.
- Follow the Leave No Trace (LNT) Principles: You must adhere strictly to the LNT principles. Carry all non-bio-degradable waste (i.e., plastic, wrappers) with you when you leave. You should camp in designated areas, and you should not disturb natural (freshwater) sources of water.
- Support the Local Economy: When trekking in the Himalayas, it's important to stay in local homestays in Sankri, hire local guides and porters, and purchase local crafts and food, to help support the local mountain communities and to encourage the continuation of their traditional lifestyle.
- Dress Appropriately: When visiting a village or place of worship, it's a good idea to dress modestly in order to show respect for their culture.
- Interaction with the Local People: You should engage with the local people respectfully, try to learn a few phrases in their language (Hindi or Garhwali), and don't impose on them any customs or ideas from urban life.
The Bali Pass Trek should be viewed as not just a snowy adventure, but also a cultural and spiritual journey that leads to the core of Garhwal region. If one wishes to have a better trekking experience and be a part of preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the Bali Pass area, one must approach their trek with open-mindedness and an awareness of the needs of the local population.
Meet the Expert Behind the Above Insights

Nanda Rawat
Operations Manager
Nanda Rawat holds a Master’s degree in Tourism & Hospitality and brings over 16 years of experience in adventure and leisure travel. He has led multiple Himalayan expeditions, contributed to ATOAI, and is trained in first aid by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation. A strong supporter of sustainable and ethical tourism, he plays a key role at Trekup India.
Write to him at: nanda@trekupindia.com
How We Created This Guide?
- First-hand knowledge: Our guides and trek leaders, many of whom have lived and worked in these regions, contribute detailed insights.
- Local expertise: Information is cross-verified with villagers, porters, and ground teams who know the trails better than anyone.
- Continuous updates: Each season, we refine our trek details based on weather conditions, trekker feedback, and safety improvements.
- Responsible practices: The content aligns with Leave No Trace principles and Trekup India's strict safety protocols.
Why This Content Exists?
At Trekup India, our mission is simple: to empower trekkers to explore the Himalayas with confidence and respect.
- We want to cut through the clutter of generic trek info online by offering authentic, ground-tested guidance.
- Our goal is to ensure that every trekker, whether a beginner or a seasoned mountaineer, feels prepared, safe, and inspired.
- Most importantly, this content exists to build trust, because we believe every successful trek starts with honest information.








