Beas Kund Trek in Manali: Exploring the Source of the Beas River in Manali

Beas Kund is a popular destination in Manali, Himachal Pardesh, India, that starts at Solang Nallah. This trek takes you to the source of River Beas, an emerald blue lake located at an altitude of 3700 meters, surrounded by towering mountains in the Solang valley. The Beas Kund is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers Manali.

Beas Kund Lake is a peaceful and picturesque body of water that divides into streams with cascading waterfalls before joining the Beas River, here you will see beautiful meadows and lofty mountains and Friendship Peak, Shitidhar, Ladakhi and Hanuman Magnificent views like dunes are available. The best time to visit the Beas Kund Trek in Manali is from May to October when the weather is mild and the views are stunning. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time hiker, the Beas Kund Trek is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

The sight of the serene water body contrasting with the jagged mountain peaks of the Pir Panjal range is stunning. Standing here, you will feel a deep sense of proximity to the source of the raging Beas river that you see flowing in the valley below. The emerald kund branches off into streams, and you can hear the sound of tumbling waterfalls that eventually converge into the boiling Beas river.

According to local legends, Rishi Vayas, the author of the epic Mahabharata, used to bathe in these waters, which is why the lake is named Beas Kund. Although this trek is suitable for beginners, it’s essential to acclimatize to the altitude and prepare for long distances to be covered in a short time.

The combination of the big snowy summits towering above, the lush greenery of the grasslands, and the serene lake, make this trek all the more appealing. It is a trek that can be enjoyed by beginners, but we recommend adequate preparation as it involves a steep climb from around 8,000 ft at the beginning of the trek to over 12,000 ft.

Overall, Beas Kund is an excellent trek for anyone who loves adventure, nature, and legends. It is a great opportunity to experience the beauty and power of the Himalayas and to feel the spirit of the ancient legends that still hold sway in this magnificent land.

What To Watch Out For

When embarking on a trek to Beas Kund, there are certain things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and successful journey. Here are some important factors to watch out for:
  • Altitude sickness: The Beas Kund involves a rapid ascent which can make you prone to altitude sickness. It is essential to acclimatize properly, take adequate rest breaks, and stay hydrated to avoid any health issues.
  • Weather: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable and can change quickly. It is advisable to check the forecast before you begin your trek and pack appropriate clothing and gear to handle unexpected weather changes.
  • Terrain: The Beas Kund trek can be challenging with uneven and rocky terrain, steep inclines, and narrow paths. To ensure safety, wear sturdy and comfortable trekking shoes, and be cautious while walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Drinking water: It is crucial to carry an adequate supply of drinking water as water sources on the way may not be safe for consumption. Carrying a water filter or purification tablets can help ensure that you have access to clean drinking water.
  • Waste management: It is important to practice proper waste management by carrying all your waste with you and disposing of it appropriately. Maintaining cleanliness and preserving the natural beauty of the trekking trail is crucial.
By keeping these factors in mind and being prepared for the trek, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience on the Beas Kund.

Detailed Itinerary for Beas Kund Trek

Beas-Kund trek
  • Day 1: Arrival in ManaliYou will arrive in Manali on the first day and check into your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the town, shopping for trekking gear, and acclimatizing to the altitude.
  • Day 2: Drive to Solang Valley, Trek to DhundhiOn the second day, you will take a short drive to Solang Valley, the starting point of the trek. From there, you will begin your trek to Dhundhi, which is about 8 km away. The trail is easy and follows the river, Beas. You will camp overnight in Dhundhi.
  • Day 3: Trek to BakarthachOn the third day, you will trek to Bakarthach, which is about 5 km from Dhundhi. The trail climbs gradually through the forest of oak and conifer trees. You will cross a few small streams on the way. Bakarthach is a beautiful meadow surrounded by mountains. You will camp overnight in Bakarthach.
  • Day 4: Trek to Beas KundOn the fourth day, you will trek to Beas Kund, which is about 3 km from Bakarthach. The trail is steep and passes through moraines and boulders. You will get to see panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Beas Kund is a small lake that is the source of the river Beas. You will camp overnight near the lake.
  • Day 5: Trek back to BakarthachOn the fifth day, you will trek back to Bakarthach. The trail is mostly downhill and takes about 2-3 hours. You will have plenty of time to relax and explore Bakarthach. You will camp overnight in Bakarthach.
  • Day 6: Trek back to Solang Valley, drive to ManaliOn the final day of the trek, you will trek back to Solang Valley, from where you will be driven back to Manali. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the town, shopping, and relaxing.
Note: This itinerary is subject to change depending on the weather conditions and the pace of the group.

Beas Kund Quick Facts

  • Location: Beas Kund is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India.
  • Altitude: From March till December (excluding monsoon season & February due to heavy snowfall).
  • Trekking distance: The total distance covered during the Beas Kund, Manali is approximately 16 kilometers.
  • Duration of trek: Beas Kund trip takes 2-3 days and can be done comfortably over a long weekend. Some people do it in one day, but it depends on how much you want to walk and how much you want to enjoy the scenery. It’s doable in a day if you’re a good hiker and short on time.
  • Difficulty level: The Beas Kund trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty and can be undertaken by beginners with some preparation.
  • Best time to visit: The best time to visit Beas Kund is between May and October when the weather is pleasant and the trekking trail is open.
  • Religious significance: According to the legend, Beas Kund is the place where Rishi Vyas, the author of the Hindu epic Mahabharata, used to take his daily bath. .
  • Beas Kund Temperature: 10-15°C (50-59°F)
  • Accessibility of Trek: Beas Kund can be reached by a trek from the Solang Valley, which is about 14 kilometers from Manali, or by road from Manali to Dhundi, which is the starting point of the Beas Kund trek.

Best Time to visit the Beas Kund Trek, Manali

The best time for the Beas Kund, Manali is from mid-May to late July when the snow melts and the path is clear but there are still some snow-filled paths to trek. It’s best to avoid visiting in August and early September due to the heavy monsoon rains in the area. From mid-September to late October, the weather is chilly but still favorable for a trek before winter sets in. From mid-September to the end of October, the weather is chilly but still favorable for the trek before winter sets in. While some experienced trekkers attempt the trek in winter when the area is covered in several feet of snow, it’s not advisable for beginners as the obstacles can be quite challenging during that time.

How To Get There

To reach the starting point of the Beas Kund trek, one needs to first reach Manali, which is well-connected by road from major cities in North India such as Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla.
By Road
Manali is easily accessible by road, and one can either take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Manali. The nearest bus station is the Manali Bus Stand, and regular buses ply to and from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla.
By Rail
The nearest railway station to Manali is the Joginder Nagar Railway Station, which is located approximately 166 km away. From here, one can either take a taxi or a bus to reach Manali.
By Air
The nearest airport to Manali is the Bhuntar Airport, which is located approximately 50 km away. Regular flights operate from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chandigarh to Bhuntar, and one can hire a taxi from the airport to reach Manali.
Once in Manali, one can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the starting point of the Beas Kund trek, which is located at a village called Dhundi, around 22 km from Manali.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beas Kund Trek

What is the difficulty level of the Beas Kund Trek?

The Beas Kund Trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty, and suitable for beginners with some prior trekking experience. The total trekking distance is around 16 km and it takes 2-3 days to complete.

What is the best time to go for the Beas Kund Trek?

The best time to go is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.

What kind of accommodation is available on the Trek?

Accommodation on the Beas Kund Trek is generally in tents, with camping grounds available at various points along the trek. However, there are also a few basic guesthouses and homestays available in the nearby villages.

What kind of food is available?

Most of the food on the Beas Kund Trek is prepared by the trekking company and includes a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Typical meals include dal, rice, vegetables, chapatis, eggs, and noodles.

What kind of clothing and equipment is required for the Beas Kund Trek?

Trekking shoes, warm clothing, a rain jacket, a backpack, a water bottle, and a trekking pole are some of the essential items to carry on the Beas Kund Trek. It is also advisable to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a first-aid kit.

Is it safe to trek to Beas Kund?

The Beas Kund Trek is generally considered to be safe, provided one takes the necessary precautions and follows the instructions of the trekking company. However, it is always advisable to be cautious and well-prepared, especially when trekking in high-altitude areas.