Bali Pass Trek
Bali Pass Trek
Bali Pass Trek is an enchanting trek surrounded by Govind Ballabh Pant Wildlife Sanctuary in the Uttarkashi district of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. Trekkers having the experience of the climb search for the trek and begin the 61 Kilometer trail and the Bali Pass Trek height is 5,000 Meters. Bali Pass is a narrow passage that opens at the Yamunotri Dham in the Small Town known as Sankari Village. This village is a base camp for the Bali Pass trek, Har Ki Dun trek, and Ruinsara Trek. The destinations that will be covered in the trek include Sankari Gaon, Taluka Village, Seema Village, Ruinsara Tal, Damini Forest, and Janki Chatti. Every destination has its traditions and culture that mesmerizes the tourists. It also promotes the local culture with the people visiting the destination. The best month to trek is between April to June (Summer Season) and October to November (Autumn or Post Monsoon Season). The estimated days for Bali Pass Trek are around 7 to 8 days. Trekkers fascinated with the rough terrain and pleasant weather can book a trek package and commence their voyage.
Bali Pass Trek: A Passage to Yamunotri Valley
Bali Pass Trek connects Uttarkashi district with the holy shrine: Yamunotri Dham. Earlier, this passage was used by the devotees to take the blessing of Goddess Yamuna. According to Vedic mythology, the name Bali Pass is inspired by King Bali (King of the Monkeys) who once defeated Ravana. He had an important role in the Ramayana epic. As a result, it was named after the Kishkinda King, the great Bali. Another epic that is connected with the narrow passage is from the Mahabharata epic. These mythological stories connect the travelers to the place and the passages are used for trekking. Hiking enthusiasts can make a schedule and book a Bali Pass Trek Package at the respective price.
Bali Pass Trek Highlights
Bali Pass Trek has lots of charms that unfold with the expedition to its pinnacle. In the journey, it is essential to wrap their head around the trek information and then schedule the trip. This information will assist in furnishing an informed plan and implementing it accordingly. To simplify the task, the points outlined below present the holistic understanding of the trek.
- Location: Within Govind Ballabh Pant Wildlife Sanctuary at Uttarkashi District in Uttarakhand
- Altitude: 5,000 Meters
- Trek Distance: 61 Kilometer
- Duration of Trek: 8 Days
- Starting Point of Bali Pass Trek: Sankari Village
- End Point: Yamunotri Dham
- Best Time to Visit: Summers and Post-Monsoon
- Itinerary: Sankari Village, Taluka Village, Seema Village, Ruinsara Tal, Damini Forest, and Janki Chatti
- Nearby Places to Explore: Har Ki Dun, Govind Pashu Vihar National Park and Sanctuary, Purola, Mori Village, Gangotri Dham, Yamunotri Dham and Kedarkantha Trek
- Vicinity of Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station
- Vicinity of Airport: Jolly Grant Airport
Bali Pass Trek Itinerary
Explorers can begin their journey on the scheduled date. They’re supposed to arrive at Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand. They can arrive via bus, train or a flight. Thereafter, They can resume their journey to the Bali Pass Trek Base Camp. The comprehensive detail of the trek itinerary is simplified below.
- Reach Sankari village by bus or taxi to Purola
- From Purola book a taxi to Sankari (Base Camp)
- First day of trek that begins that ends at Seema Gaon
- Camping at lush green pasture land
- Trek to crystalline lake names Runisara
- It takes 5 to 7 Hours to reach there
- A hike to Odari Village
- Night stay with the localites
- Begin the journey to a beautiful camping ground
- Camping and bonfires with trekkers.
- Return to the base camp
- Last night in beautiful landscape with the himalayan culture and tradition
- Hop into a bus or taxi to reach the destination
- It will take approximate 9 to 11 hours to reach Dehradun
- Transportation From Dehradun
- Meals During the trek (starting day 1 from Dinner & day 6 day Lunch)
- High Quality camping equipment (Tents, sleeping bags, zero degree sleeping Matts, dinning tents, toilet Tent)
- Crampons and Gaiters as per Snow Conditions
- Basic first Aid Kit with Oxygen Cylinders
- Forest permission charges
- Highly experienced team of mountain trek leader and guides
- Experienced Trek Leader/Trip Captain
- Radio Walkie Talkie for communication
- Certificate of trek completion
- Anything not mentioned in inclusion
- Personal insurance
- Meals During transportation
- All personal Expenses, optional tour, extra Meals
- Mules or porter charges to carry private Baggage Offload Charges for Bag 450 per campsite – Bag weight should not be more than 10kg
- Accommodation in dehradun
- Any expense for medical treatment of injury or accident before during and after the trek
- Any early returns travel costs or accommodation except for the days as per the itinerary
- Any cost arising due to natural, calamities, landslide, Road blocking, political disturbance (strikes) etc ( to be borne by the client, which is directly payable on the spot).
Best Time of Bali Pass Uttarakhand
Now, trekkers must be thinking about the best time for the Bali Pass Trek. The climber can arrange a walk based on the meteorological information provided in this section. Post that, they can schedule a trip based on the given information. The season-wise trek information is comprehended below.
Summer Season (April to June): The onset of the summer season can be traced by the penetration of the sun on the snow-filled mountains. In this season, the temperature on sunny days is recorded between 10 Degrees Celsius to 20 Degrees Celsius. On the other hand, the temperature starts to drop at night time with an estimated range of 5 to 10 Degrees Celsius. This monsoon is seen as one of the best seasons to trek in Bali Pass because of its stable weather.
Monsoon Season (July to September): The next season after summer is monsoon which begins in July and ends in September. In these months, it pours heavenly in the Bali Pass trek making it challenging for the trekkers to summit the destination. If trekkers are still climbing it is crucial to carry a raincoat and waterproof jackets.
Autumn or Post Monsoon Season (October to November): After the heavy rainfall, the sky becomes clear with the full vegetation spread across the mountains. The flora and fauna of the Himalayas are in its zenith. Trekkers also venture out for the expedition and easily get mesmerized by the beauty of the surroundings.
Winter Season (December to March): The temperature between December to March remains between Zero Degree Celsius and seven Degrees Celsius. Not all trekkers can handle the harshness that comes with heavy snowfall and extremely low temperatures. Hence, this trek is only recommended to seasoned climbers.
Difficulty Level of Bali Pass Trek
To be terse and to the point, Bali Pass Trek is a challenging trek that can only be submitted by experienced trekkers. Promptly, the question arises what are the factors that make the trek challenging? Trekkers can check the given point for the information.
- Extreme Weather: The Himalayas are known for their hit-and-miss weather. On a sunny day, trekkers might find the weather pleasant but as soon as night falls, it starts to freeze. Rainfall is unpredictable and the winter season becomes inhabitable for humans to survive. Thus, it is important to carry insulated clothes and thermal innerwear.
- High Altitude: The height of the Bali Pass Trek is 5,000 Meters, which makes it a bit challenging to climb 61 kilometers in the Garhwal range. During the trek, explorers must adjust to the high-altitude weather and then continue the expedition. If hikers face any difficulty in the trek then they should approach the nearest hospital.
- Sudden Climbs and Falls: The terrain of the mountains is rugged and challenges the climbers to ascend and descend it. This trek is not only the beginners but also the seasoned trekkers. Hence, hiking devotees must work on their physical and mental well-being before commencing the climb.
- Risks Related to Altitude: Trekkers climbing the peak can face many difficulties like Actual Mountain Sickness (AMS), Hydration, and Poor Adjustment at high altitudes. Furthermore, trekkers must be aware of the symptoms of these problems and their remedies.
- Long Duration and Isolated Routes: The trail of the Bali Pass Trek is far from human civilization which makes the trek lonely or isolated. This situation adds up to the long duration of the trek.
Why to Explore Bali Pass Trek of Uttarakhand
This is a fascinating question, but it may also be difficult. The response given in the line above is incomplete and can only be completed by the hikers’ personal experiences. In the trek, every destination has its enchanting flare that can only be felt after its visit. Firstly, Osla and Gangad village are one historical destination presenting the culture and architecture of Himachal Pradesh (Neighboring State). Trekkers will be staying with the natives for a day which will further give exposure to the native traditions. Secondly, Devasu Thatch is a dazzling place enclosed with emerald pasture lands for the livestock. Trekkers get captivated by the enchanting beauty that the Himlayas present. From here, climbers can easily spot Swargrohini and Kalanag Peak filled with snow. Thirdly, Ruinsara Lake is a serene lake that can be approved from a narrow valley. As the travelers reach the crystalline lake they get mesmerized with the natural environment. It is a glacial lake that remains frozen in the winter season and starts to melt as the rays of the sun strike it. Lastly, the sense of achievement that only comes after the expedition of the Bali Pass Trek. Once the trekkers reach the pass their heart gets filled with pride for finishing one of the difficult treks.
Permits and Guidelines for Bali Pass Trek
Trekkers making plans for Bali Pass Trek must get permission from the Uttarakhand Tourism Department. The best treks of Uttarakhand are located in a conserved area that needs protection from the changing environment. Hence, the Uttarakhand Government has come up with a rule in which it is mandatory to take permission for trekking. Travelers need to fill up the online form with the stamp paper and medical permission and submit it within a month. This information will be examined by the officials and then the permission will be granted to the trekkers. All the official details will be provided via online medium. Trekkers coming across any difficulty can contact the official and resolve the queries.
Trekkers who have got permission for Bali Pass Trek are requested to follow the guidelines of hiking. These guidelines include protecting the ranges from external interference and leaving the trail in its natural state only. Hikers should not litter in the Himalayan ranges and avoid direct contact with unknown flora and fauna. More guidelines will be updated to the trekkers via email to make the trek safe and secure. Furthermore, climbers should read out all the information before commencing the trek.
What to Pack for Bali Pass Trek in Uttarakhand?
Once the trekkers are done with the booking of the Bali Pass Trek Package, they can begin to pack for the expedition. The packing for the trek is crucial to make the journey less hectic and comforting. The essentials that should be kept in a trekking bag are outlined in the following lines.
- Hikers should keep insulated and waterproof jackets, innerwear, 1 pair of trekking pants, and shirts with headgear.
- Trekkers must buy high ankle comfortable and waterproof trekking boots with woolen socks.
- The climbing backpack should be filled with a Sleeping Bag, Trekking Poles, flashlights, Water Purification Tablets, Water Bottle, Sunglasses, a First Aid Kit, and Sunscreen.
- One of the most forgotten items in the trekking bags is a personal hygiene kit. These items consist of a Camera, Power Bank, Dry Towels, Map, and compass.
- Once the trek starts climbers should write down the contact number of the nearest Police Station, Hospital, Tour Guide, and the closest trekkers.
Nearby Places of Bali Pass Trek
Trekkers must have all the knowledge that is required in the trail of Bali Pass Trek. Once the trek is concluded climbers can visit more places to make lifelong memories. These places are listed in the points given below. Hiking devotees can glance through the places and then include any of the places in their itinerary.
Govind Pashu Vihar National Park and Sanctuary
Govind Pashu Vihar National Park Sanctuary is located in the Supin range in Uttarkashi district of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. In the early stages, it was set up as a wildlife sanctuary and then converted into a national park to conserve the flora and fauna of the Garhwal ranges. The name of the national park is inspired by the well-known political leader Govind Ballabh Pant. This national park is renowned for Snow Leopards and Bearded Vultures. Travelers visiting Uttarkashi district can venture out of the national park by obtaining permission from authorities and entry tickets.
Taluka and Osla Village
Taluka and Osla Village are well-known villages of “Pahadi” tradition and culture. Trekkers making their way out for the Har Ki Dun Trek and Ruinsara Trek come across the native people. These people help the trekkers to imbibe themselves in the local cultures, traditions, and day-to-day life experienced by them. This adds up to new experiences and long-lasting souvenirs that remain forever in the memory. Furthermore, these villages are the heart of ancient culture derived from the Mahabharata period. It is said that Yudhisthir (the Youngest Son of Pandavas) went through the same route with a dog to reach the Swargarohini peak (A Way to Heaven). Hence, the culture of the region is influenced by Mahabharata epics.
Yamunotri and Gangotri Dham
Among the four destinations of Char Dham Yatra, Gangotri, and Yamunotri Dham are the holy shrines visited by devotees for blessings of Goddess Ganga and Yamuna. Both destinations are located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. River Ganga and Yamuna originate from these respective places and hold respect in the hearts of the devotees. These holy places remain open only for 6 months and are closed in the winter season. In Hindu mythology, these places have their sacredness and stories that are propagated from generation to generation. Every year, tourists from all over India and the world visit the shrine via bus or taxi.
Tons Valley
Tons Valley is a beautiful treasure enclosed from the Himalayan ranges in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. This mesmerizing valley is renowned for the adventure sites that can only be experienced after reaching the destination. It takes 200 Kilometers to reach the site from Dehradun and 400 Kilometers from Delhi (Capital of India). It is a high-altitude terrain situated at 14,970 feet with the Himalayan biodiversity. It takes 5 to 6 days to trek in the valley and explore the adventure activities like River Rafting, Camping, and other countless activities.
Now, we have come to the end of the Bali Pass Trek information. Readers must have been fascinated by the trek situated in the middle of the Garhwal range making a small passage for connecting the two destinations. These treks have the potential to give direction to the rushing adrenaline in your veins. If you have experience of climbing in the mountains and looking for more expeditions then this trek will add a feather in your cap. Furthermore, there are more connecting passes that can also be explored by the wanderlust freak. Here, every step comes with the reward of mesmerizing beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and dazzling flowers blooming on the way. It gives a sense of achievement that every person needs from mundane life.
Wanderlust freaks can start their voyage with a well-furnished plan and add a great number of destinations to the trip. These treks have the charm that uncovers self-discovery and bondage with the natural beauty blended with the high-altitude mountains. Bali Pass Trek will surely be a transformative journey that you are seeking in your life.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Bali Pass Treks
Hiking enthusiasts can begin the expedition for Bali Pass from an enchanting village known as Sankari Village. This village is a base camp of countless Uttarakhand treks including Kedarkantha Trek, Ruinsara Trek, and Har Ki Dun Trek.
Travelers visiting Devbhoomi for Bali Pass Trek are required to reach Dehradun (Capital of Uttarakhand) to begin the base camp journey. They can reach the destination via bus, taxi, train or by flight. The nearest airport of Uttarakhand is in Jolly Grant (Dehradun) and it has connectivity from all over India.
The Bali Pass Trek is regarded as among the challenging hikes of Uttarakhand. The altitude of the trek is 5,000 Meters with steep and rugged terrain that makes the trail difficult for beginners. Additionally, the weather conditions and long duration make the climb demanding. This trek can be the stepping stone for experienced hikers.
The price of the Bali Pass Trek is between Rs 22, 900 to 28,900. Hiking devotees can contact the travel agency and ask the details of the trek and book a package accordingly.
The temperature in the Bali Pass Base Camp i.n. Sankari village remains between 10 Degree Celsius to 20 Degree Celsius (Day Time). However, it begins to drop at night and reaches till 0 Degree Celsius to 5 Degree Celsius.