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Trek Grade Guide:


Trekking in the Himalayas is a true adventure experience — a journey into high-altitude wilderness where nature exists in its most raw and powerful form. Every trek comes with physical challenges, unpredictable weather, and varying terrain. Choosing the right trek grade is essential not just for a great experience, but also for safety and proper acclimatization.

To help you make the right choice, treks are categorized into three levels based on altitude, terrain, duration, and overall difficulty:

Easy (Beginner-Friendly Treks):
Ideal for first-time trekkers or those looking for an easy trek in the Himalayas. These treks usually last up to a week, with shorter hiking days, gradual altitude gain, and a maximum altitude of around 14,000 ft. The terrain remains well-defined, often within or near the tree line, with civilization relatively accessible. Weather conditions are more predictable, making these treks safer and easier to manage, with quicker rescue access if required.

Moderate Treks:
Designed for trekkers with some prior experience or good fitness levels. These treks may extend beyond a week and include a mix of short and long trekking days, with altitudes reaching up to 16,000 ft. You move above the tree line into more rugged landscapes — including alpine meadows, moraines, and high-altitude terrain. Weather becomes more unpredictable, and conditions can change suddenly. While still manageable, these treks require better preparation, endurance, and mental strength.

Difficult (Expedition-Level Treks):
These are high-altitude expeditions meant for experienced trekkers. Routes often exceed 17,000 ft and pass through glaciers, snowfields, steep ascents, river crossings, and technical terrain. Treks can last up to two weeks, taking you far from civilization into extreme Himalayan conditions. Weather can shift rapidly, and sections may require technical equipment like ropes or ice axes. Rescue in such regions is complex, making experience, self-sufficiency, and strong mental resilience absolutely essential.

Understanding these categories helps you choose a trek that matches your fitness, experience, and expectations — ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and truly memorable Himalayan adventure.

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PriceNote – Listed Price & Customisation Rules:
The listed trek price applies to our fixed departures for the specified itinerary. Trek fees including any add-ons for customized groups may vary based on your preferences, ensuring every adventure is tailored to your needs.

Group Booking Offer:
For groups of 8 or more booking together, the trek fee for 1 participant will be waived as a token to encourage shared adventures.

Scholarship for Kids:
Children under 15 years receive a 30% discount on the trek price, making it easier for families to explore the Himalayas together.

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Transport Price Note:
The transport price mentioned is only an current indicative estimate per person, assuming a Non-AC vehicle like Bolero shared by at least 4 participants.
Fewer participants → cost rises;
More participants → cost decreases.

Transport Selection During Booking:
Selecting transport during booking informs us of your preference. No payment is collected at booking.

Final Cost & Payment:
Final transport cost will be communicated before departure and to be paid directly to the cab driver.

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Itinerary Note:
This itinerary represents the most updated plan, but minor adjustments may occur due to operational needs or mountain conditions.

Beas Kund Trek

A Short Walk to the Source of the Beas River

Gallery

Trek Overview

  • Trek Duration: 2 Nights / 3 Days
  • Trek Grade: Easy ?
  • 🏔️ Max Altitude: 12,200 ft (Beas Kund)
  • Trek Distance: ~16 Km
  • 🌤️ Best Time: June-July & September-October
  • 🗺️ Region: Solang Valley, Himachal Pradesh
  • 📍 Start Point: Manali
  • 🏁 End Point: Manali
  • 🧥 Cloakroom facility: Not Available

Price starting from ?

INR 6,900 * Manali to Manali

*Price inclusive of all applicable taxes (GST included).

Small group sizes • High guide-to-trekker ratio • No hidden costs

Addons (Optional)

  • Offloading Bags – INR 1,200 (* Maximum weight 9kg/bag)

Need a different date?

We can arrange a custom departure if 3+ trekkers align.

Walking The Trail

Some treks are about distance, while others are about how close you can get to the mountains—and the Beas Kund Trek is firmly the latter. This is a journey that places you right at the base of towering Himalayan peaks, where the scale feels immediate and constant, and the landscape carries a raw, glacial character from the very beginning.
For those coming in, the expectation is clear—a short yet immersive trek near Manali that offers a real high-mountain experience without long durations. It’s about walking through a wide alpine valley, staying close to the origins of a river, and witnessing the transition from green terrain to rugged glacial ground in just a few days.
The journey begins from the Solang valley, gradually moving away from the last signs of civilization and into a broad, open landscape shaped by ancient glaciers. The Beas River becomes your constant companion, flowing beside the trail, its presence grounding the entire experience.
Unlike meadow-dominated treks, the terrain here feels more structured and defined. The trail moves steadily across rocky paths, river crossings, and alpine stretches, with the valley opening wide on all sides. Peaks like Hanuman Tibba, Friendship Peak, and Shitidhar rise sharply above, never feeling distant but always close enough to dominate your field of view.
As you gain altitude, the softness of the lower valley begins to fade. Moraine sections appear, the terrain grows rougher, and the landscape starts to reflect the true nature of glacial environments. It’s a gradual but clear shift—from green to grey, from open to stark.
At the center of this journey lies Beas Kund, a small, quiet lake set at the foot of these massive peaks. Believed to be the source of the Beas River and associated with Sage Vyas, it holds a significance that feels both geographical and deeply rooted in local belief. There is no dramatic arrival—just a still, contained space where everything seems to pause.
What makes this trek stand out is not just the destination, but the proximity it offers throughout. The mountains are never in the background—they are always around you, shaping every step and every view.
As you descend back toward Dhundi and eventually Manali, the valley slowly begins to close in, and the peaks that once felt overwhelming start to recede. But the memory remains—of walking through a landscape where distance didn’t matter, and where the mountains felt closer than ever before.
Read More

Highlights

✅ Easy access from Manali, making it one of the most beginner-friendly Himalayan treks

✅ Scenic drive to Dhundi through Solang Valley with views of surrounding peaks

✅ Walk along the Beas River through a wide glacial valley

✅ Close views of iconic peaks like Hanuman Tibba, Friendship Peak, and Shitidhar

✅ Camp at Bakarthach, a beautiful high-altitude grassland surrounded by mountains

✅ Visit Beas Kund (~12,200 ft), the glacial source of the Beas River

Itinerary

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The journey begins with a short drive from Manali toward Dhundi via Solang Valley, gradually leaving behind the main town and entering a quieter mountain setting. The road follows the Beas River upstream, with views of surrounding peaks beginning to open up as you approach the roadhead. From Dhundi, the trek starts along a well-defined trail that moves through a wide glacial valley. The river stays close, cutting through the landscape, while the path gradually ascends over a mix of rocky terrain and patches of grassland. Bakarthach, the campsite for the day, sits in an open alpine zone surrounded by towering peaks. The setting feels expansive yet grounded, with the sound of the river and the presence of mountains defining the experience.
The day begins with a gradual ascent deeper into the valley, following the course of the river toward its source. The terrain becomes more rugged, with moraine sections and glacial features appearing along the way. As you move higher, the peaks feel closer and more dominant, especially Hanuman Tibba and Friendship Peak, which rise sharply above the valley. The sense of scale increases with every step. Beas Kund appears quietly—a small glacial lake set against a stark mountain backdrop. Believed to be the origin of the Beas River, it holds both geographical and mythological significance. Time here is unhurried, allowing you to take in the stillness and the surrounding peaks. After spending time at the lake, the return to Bakarthach follows the same route, with the descent offering a broader perspective of the valley.
The final day involves a steady descent back toward Dhundi, retracing the path along the Beas River. The valley, now familiar, feels more approachable, with the same landmarks appearing from a different perspective. Reaching Dhundi marks the end of the trek, where the road reconnects you to Manali. The drive back feels like a transition from the quiet, high-altitude environment to the liveliness of the valley below. The trek concludes with a sense of having experienced the source of a river and the presence of some of the most prominent peaks in the region—all within a short and well-balanced journey.

Packing list

For a comprehensive packing list, download the PDF below: Download Packing List

Did you know?

Beas Kund is believed to be the meditation site of Sage Vyas, from whom the Beas River gets its name.
The trek follows the early course of the Beas River, allowing you to walk alongside it almost from its origin.
The valley is a classic example of a glacial trough, shaped by ancient ice movement over thousands of years.
Bakarthach is a traditional grazing ground, often used by local shepherds during summer months.
Peaks like Hanuman Tibba and Friendship Peak appear unusually close due to the openness of the valley.
The terrain here gives an early introduction to moraine and glacial landscapes without technical difficulty.
Weather can shift quickly due to the open valley, with clouds often rolling in by afternoon.
Despite its short duration, the trek offers one of the closest non-technical approaches to major Himalayan peaks.
The water flowing through the valley is directly sourced from glacial melt, making it extremely cold and clear.
This trek is often used as a training ground for beginners before attempting higher or longer Himalayan treks.

Route Map

How to reach

✈️ Air: Nearest airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu) – 50 km from Manali. Take a cab or bus to reach Manali.

🚆 Train: Nearest major railway station: Chandigarh Railway Station. From Chandigarh, take a Volvo bus or private cab to Manali (~8–10 hrs).

🛣️ Road: From Delhi: Overnight Volvo buses (12–14 hrs) regularly ply to Manali. From Chandigarh: 8–10 hrs by cab or bus. Manali is well-connected and has frequent bus services.

🗺️ Travel Tip: Arrive in Manali a day before the trek for acclimatization and avoid delays.

TrekFAQs

  • This trek is suitable for beginners, families, and first-time trekkers with basic fitness.
  • Yes, it is one of the best short treks near Manali for kids, as long as they are comfortable walking.
  • It is an easy to moderate trek with gradual ascents and no technical sections.
  • Mild symptoms are possible, but the gradual ascent and shorter duration make it manageable.
  • It is the source of the Beas River and offers close views of major Himalayan peaks.
  • Network is available till Manali and partially near Dhundi; beyond that there is no connectivity.

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What our trekkers say

Jytte Scheepens

Jytte Scheepens

Freelancer | Breda, Netherlands

★★★★★

I had the best experience with Planethimalayas. I went on Pin Parvati trek this august with them which is for sure a very challenging trek, however because of the great organization, well arranged team and the best trek leader you could ever wish for, Kamal Ji, this was something I will never forget!!!!
There isn’t anything which could or should have been done differently. I felt safe all the way throughout.
I’d also like to mention that i was the only female in the team and was so well looked after. Everyone looked after me like one big family, just like Kamal feels like a big brother to me now. It was my second trek with Kamal, and im a 1000% sure it wouldnt be my last. Thank you for everything Planethimalayas and Kamal in special! ❤️

Himanshu Sharma

Himanshu Sharma

Delhi

★★★★★

Had the best experience with Planethimalayas. I did the Pin Parvati trek with them and everything was organised so well. We had very experienced guides, incredible porters and the best chef!! The food was actually even better than in most restaurants. Big thanks to the trek leader Kamal Ji who is such a genuine and knowledgeable soul. He made this trek even more special than it already was. Thanks for everything Planethimalayas!!

Abhay Poddar

Abhay Poddar

Pune

★★★★★

The experience with Planethimalays on the Beas Kund Trek was really Great. I took a group of College students on a Himalayan Trek for the 1st Time. Everything was planned very well. The 2 female guides Raksha and Deepika ensured the group especially the girls were made comfortable. The safety of the group, food and tents were all araangd very well. Looking forward to trekking with them next year too.

Yashesh Vora

Yashesh Vora

Pune

★★★★★

We had an amazing experience with Planethimalayas organized by Kamal sir. Everything from stay and food to overall arrangements was perfectly managed. Manish, Satish and Ashish were extremely supportive throughout the trip. We completed Tungnath and Deoriatal treks, and the food was simple, local, and delicious. The beautiful Sari village visit was truly beautiful my parents even walked 5 km, which was a big surprise for us!
The itinerary was very thoughtfully planned and suitable for my parents as well as my little one. Highly recommended for all kind of treks in the Himalayan ranges!

Ananya Mitra

Ananya Mitra

Kolkata

★★★★★

Kamal Das the leader and founder is a great person and had good knowledge about the route. The food was great and the stays were comfortable which was above the expectation in that altitude.
Thanks to Planethimalayas.

Jytte Scheepens

Jytte Scheepens

Freelancer | Breda, Netherlands

★★★★★

I did the Kashmir Great Lakes trek with Kamal. This was such an unforgettable experience. Kamal is such an amazing guide. He told us so many interesting facts, I had beautiful deep talks with him about the mountains and listened to many of his stories about the experiences he's had while trekking. He's such a genuine and pure soul. I was the only female in the team, but not once I felt uncomfortable or left out. Everyone was incredibly respectful and nice. We were allowed to walk on our own pace and didn't feel rushed or pushed. Everyone can do the trek as they want, in the way they want. He respects you and really goes out of his way to make you enjoy the most. Till this day he's still a dear friend of mine and I hope to have the privilege to go to the mountains again, together with him. If you're planning to do a trek, definitely do it with Kamal — he will 100% make sure this trip is something you'll never forget.

Clare Fisher

Clare Fisher

Marketing | Canada

★★★★★

I had some nerves about going on a trek solo but Kamal took excellent care of me and made sure I felt safe and looked after. He was able to customize the trek to my needs and we went on lots of side quests to explore the area. Kamal is very knowledgeable and has some fantastic stories to tell, so was the best company the entire time — it felt like I had friends adventuring with me! Thanks again :)

Suramita Chakrabarty

Suramita Chakrabarty

Kolkata

★★★★★

Amazing staff with good and decent behaviour. Food quality was also very good. Throughout the trek they had taken utmost care of everything.
Will definitely plan again with Mr. Kamal Das.

Samar

Samar

Automotive UX Designer | Pune

★★★★★

I made friendship with the mountains through Kamal sir’s experience. The moment I met him at my last trek at Kedarkantha, I was impressed by his mountaineering knowledge and friendly nature that this year too (to Tungnath) and every year hereafter I am going to partner him to a new peak and new experiences in those journeys. Kudos to Planethimalayas for the exceptional work in making the love of mountains more accessible and enjoyable.

Akshata Poojari

Akshata Poojari

Bangalore

★★★★★

The trekking experience was absolutely unforgettable. Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable, making the whole journey fun and safe.

How Our Treks Are More Than Just a Trek

Every journey with us is carefully crafted for a deeply personal mountain experience.

Not Just a Trek — A Journey That Stays With You

Every trail we walk is a carefully chosen path into the heart of the Himalayas — not just to witness their grandeur, but to feel them under your skin and soul. Our treks are designed not as bucket list checkmarks, but as life-affirming journeys. At Planethimalayas, we believe a mountain journey is deeply personal — and that belief runs through everything we do.

Individual Care, Every Step of the Way

We keep our groups small and intimate so we can focus on you — your pace, your concerns, your joy. From pre-trek guidance to trail-side support, our leaders walk with intention, offering safety and attention without intrusion. It’s this deep care that turns strangers into friends and walks into memories.

Built on Genuine Love for the Himalayas

We don’t just operate in the Himalayas — we live and breathe them. From respecting mountain communities to following Leave No Trace ethics, our treks are shaped by humility and care. With Planethimalayas, your trek becomes a way of giving back to the mountains that give us so much.

Why Choose Us

Experience the difference of trekking with genuine mountain experts who truly care.

Trek Leader & Guide

Led by certified mountaineers with wilderness first aid training, ensuring your safety and confidence at every step.

Cook & Support Staff

Our mountain crew comprises local experts who bring unmatched experience, warmth, and deep knowledge of the region.

Small Group Size

We cap our group departures at just 8 trekkers — ensuring individual attention, deeper connections, and better trail discipline.

Safety Standards

From personal well-being to technical preparedness, we maintain the highest safety standards — using certified high-altitude gear and comprehensive safety protocols to ensure a secure and reliable Himalayan experience.

24×7 Online Support

We're always available — before, during, or after your trek. Reach out anytime, and you'll always hear back from a real human.

We Care for the Mountains

We strictly follow Leave No Trace ethics. Limited group sizes and mindful practices help protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.