Tucked at an altitude of 2,934 meters (9,650 feet) in the Kangra district, Kareri Lake is a shallow, high-altitude glacial lake fed by the melting snow of the Dhauladhar range. The trek to this crystal-clear lake begins from Kareri Village, just 25 km from Dharamshala, and winds through pine, oak, and rhododendron forests, crossing wooden bridges and alpine meadows. Ideal for beginners and weekend trekkers, the trail offers a perfect blend of natural serenity, cultural immersion, and moderate adventure.
🧭 Trek Profile
Attribute
Details
Trailhead
Kareri Village (via Ghera, Dharamshala)
Trek Distance
~26 km round trip
Altitude Gain
~5,900 ft to 9,650 ft
Trek Duration
3 days, 2 nights
Grade
Easy to Moderate
Best Season
May–June & September–November
Camping
At Reoti and Kareri Lake
🥾 Day-wise Itinerary Snapshot
Day 1: Dharamshala ➝ Kareri Village ➝ Reoti Campsite
Drive ~25 km to Kareri Village
Trek ~6 km through pine and rhododendron forests
Camp at Reoti (~8,000 ft) beside the Nyund Nallah
Day 2: Reoti ➝ Kareri Lake ➝ Reoti
Trek ~14 km round trip
Follow the glacial stream, cross wooden bridges and boulder fields
Visit Kareri Devi Temple near the lake
Return to Reoti for overnight stay
Day 3: Reoti ➝ Kareri Village ➝ Dharamshala
Descend 6 km to Kareri Village
Drive back to Dharamshala
🌄 Trail Highlights
Nyund Nallah Stream: A constant companion, this glacial stream guides the trail with its soothing gurgle.
Reoti Meadows: A scenic campsite surrounded by pine groves and grazing sheep.
Kareri Lake: A mirror-like glacial lake, often reflecting the snow-capped Dhauladhars—especially magical at sunrise.
Kareri Devi Temple: A small shrine near the lake, adding spiritual resonance to the alpine setting.
Birdlife & Flora: Spot magpies, redstarts, and Himalayan griffons along with wild rhododendrons and ferns.
🧳 Essentials for Trekkers
Item
Notes
Footwear
Trekking shoes with good grip
Clothing
Layered (mornings cold, afternoons warm)
Gear
Headlamp, rain poncho, water bottle
Camping
Tents available at Reoti and lake (seasonal)
Permits
Forest entry fee (~₹100–200) at Kareri checkpoint
🛕 Cultural Touchpoints
Kareri Village: A traditional Himachali hamlet with slate-roofed homes and terraced fields—ideal for cultural immersion.
Gaddi Shepherds: Encounter semi-nomadic Gaddi tribes with their flocks and stories of mountain lore.
🧭 How to Reach
By Road:
Dharamshala ➝ Ghera ➝ Kareri Village (~25 km)
Shared jeeps or taxis available from Dharamshala
By Train: Nearest railhead: Pathankot (~90 km)
By Air: Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala): ~20 km
🏞️ Extensions & Add-ons
Minkiani Pass Trek: A challenging 2-day extension beyond Kareri Lake (~4.5 km further)
Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj: Explore monasteries, cafés, and Tibetan culture before or after the trek
Bhagsu Nag & Triund: Combine with nearby short treks for a multi-day adventure
