Trek Overview
Bali Pass Trek – Har Ki Dun Valley to Yamunotri via 16,240 ft Glacier Pass | Govind Pashu Vihar, Uttarakhand
About Bali Pass Trek
Glacier Crossings · Ruinsara Tal · Swargarohini Views · 16,240 ft Summit · Har Ki Dun to Yamunotri
The Bali Pass Trek is one of the most adventurous and rewarding high-altitude treks in Uttarakhand. Located in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, this extraordinary crossover trek connects the beautiful Har Ki Dun Valley with Yamunotri via a demanding 16,240 ft mountain pass — delivering an unforgettable Himalayan experience of snowfields, alpine meadows, glaciers, sacred lakes, ancient forests, and breathtaking mountain panoramas. It is widely regarded as one of the finest and most complete wilderness treks in the entire Indian Himalayas.
Sankri, Supin River & Ancient Forest Trails
The trek begins from Sankri village at 6,400 ft — one of Uttarakhand's most celebrated trekking base camps — reached via a deeply scenic drive from Dehradun through Mussoorie, Naugaon, Purola, Mori, and the stunning Tons River Valley. The early trail follows the Supin River through magnificent forests of pine, walnut, chestnut, and deodar alongside traditional Himalayan villages like Osla, where the ancient wooden temple architecture and warm mountain hospitality offer a rare window into centuries-old Garhwali culture.
Devsu Thatch & Ruinsara Tal – The Sacred High-Altitude Lake
Devsu Thatch is a vast alpine meadow at around 10,200 ft, ringed by towering peaks including Kala Nag (Black Peak) and Swargarohini — the mountain sacred in Hindu mythology as the path to heaven. Beyond Devsu, the trail leads to Ruinsara Tal at 11,800 ft — one of Uttarakhand's most pristine and sacred high-altitude lakes, surrounded by Himalayan peaks reflected in still, crystal-clear water. This serene campsite is one of the most visually spectacular stages of the entire Bali Pass Trek itinerary.
Odari Cave & the Mythological Trail
The ascent to Odari at 13,100 ft brings both altitude and mythology together. This remote campsite features a natural rock cave with legendary significance related to Bali, the powerful devotee of Lord Rama — adding a unique spiritual dimension rarely found on other Himalayan treks. From here the terrain becomes progressively more rugged, with rocky trails and snow sections marking the approach to Bali Pass Base Camp at 15,100 ft.
Summit Day – 16,240 ft & the Descent to Yamunotri
The summit push begins at dawn, climbing steep snow-covered slopes and rocky ridges to Bali Pass at 16,240 ft (≈ 4,950 m) — one of the highest trekking passes accessible in Uttarakhand. The reward is a spectacular 360-degree panorama of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kala Nag. The descent through snowfields and forests to Lower Dhamni and the final walk to Janki Chatti on the Yamunotri pilgrimage route completes this extraordinary 8-day Himalayan crossover. Book your Bali Pass Trek package today and take on one of India's most thrilling high-altitude wilderness adventures!
Trek Highlights
Peaks Visible from Bali Pass
Day-wise Itinerary
Complete 8-day plan – Dehradun to Janki Chatti via Sankri, Ruinsara Tal & Bali Pass (16,240 ft)
Dehradun to Sankri (Base Camp)
Distance: 210 KM Drive | Duration: 8–10 Hours | Altitude: 6,400 ft. Early morning pickup from Dehradun Railway Station / Prince Chowk and begin the scenic drive through Mussoorie, Naugaon, Purola, Mori, and the breathtaking Tons River Valley. The route offers stunning views of forested mountains and Himalayan rivers throughout. Arrive at Sankri — the celebrated base camp village — by evening. Trek leader briefing, dinner, and overnight stay in a guesthouse.
Sankri to Seema via Gangad
Distance: 5 KM Trek + 15 KM Drive | Duration: 4–5 Hours Trek | Altitude: 8,500 ft. Drive from Sankri to Gangad and begin the trek alongside the Supin River through magnificent mixed forests of pine, walnut, chestnut, and deodar. The riverside trail passes through charming Himalayan hamlets and offers the first glimpses of the high peaks ahead. Arrive at the riverside Seema campsite near Osla village — famous for its ancient wooden temple and traditional Garhwali architecture. Overnight camping.
Seema to Rainbasera / Devsu Thatch
Distance: 7–8 KM | Duration: 4–5 Hours | Altitude: 10,200 ft. Gradual ascent through dense alpine forests and open mountain landscapes toward the magnificent Devsu Thatch — a vast alpine meadow at 10,200 ft encircled by towering Himalayan peaks including Kala Nag (Black Peak) and Swargarohini. The meadow's sweeping views and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the most scenic stages of the entire trek. Evening acclimatisation walk to prepare for higher altitude. Overnight camping at Devsu Thatch / Rainbasera.
Rainbasera to Ruinsara Tal
Distance: 6–7 KM | Duration: 4–5 Hours | Altitude: 11,800 ft. Follow the Ruinsara River through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests up to one of the most beautiful and sacred destinations on the entire route — Ruinsara Tal, a pristine high-altitude lake at 11,800 ft surrounded by magnificent Himalayan peaks reflected in still, crystal-clear waters. The tranquil lakeside campsite is one of the most extraordinary overnight experiences on any Himalayan trek. Overnight camping near Ruinsara Tal.
Ruinsara Tal to Odari
Distance: 4–6 KM | Duration: 3–4 Hours | Altitude: 13,100 ft. Steep ascent from Ruinsara Tal to Odari campsite at 13,100 ft — a remote and mythologically significant location featuring a natural rock cave with legendary connections to Bali, the powerful devotee of Lord Rama. The campsite offers close-up views of the imposing Swargarohini massif — the peak sacred in Hindu mythology as the stairway to heaven. Early dinner and overnight stay in tents to prepare for tomorrow's demanding ascent.
Odari to Bali Pass Base Camp
Distance: 3–5 KM | Duration: 3–4 Hours | Altitude: 15,100 ft. A challenging but shorter day, ascending over rocky terrain and loose scree to Bali Pass Base Camp at 15,100 ft. The rugged high-altitude landscape here is dramatic and exposed, with sweeping views in all directions. Arrive early, rest thoroughly, and hydrate well throughout the afternoon. Attend the summit briefing with your trek leader covering the route, gear check, and safety protocol. Early dinner and overnight camping — tomorrow is summit day.
Base Camp – Bali Pass (16,240 ft) – Lower Dhamni
Distance: 10–14 KM | Duration: 8–10 Hours | Altitude: 16,240 ft → 11,100 ft. The most demanding and most rewarding day of the entire trek. Begin the summit climb early morning, ascending steep snow slopes and rocky sections through the pre-dawn darkness. Reach Bali Pass at 16,240 ft (≈ 4,950 m) for an unforgettable 360-degree panorama of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kala Nag. Begin the long descent through snowfields, glacier sections, and mixed forest trails to Lower Dhamni campsite at 11,100 ft. Overnight camping — a true triumph well earned.
Lower Dhamni to Janki Chatti – Drive to Dehradun
Distance: 8–9 KM Trek + 170 KM Drive | Duration: 4–5 Hours Trek + 7–8 Hours Drive. Descend through beautiful Himalayan forests to the Yamunotri pilgrimage route and arrive at Janki Chatti — the base town for the Yamunotri Dham. From Janki Chatti, begin the long but scenic drive back to Dehradun, arriving by evening. The Bali Pass Trek concludes with the extraordinary achievement of crossing one of Uttarakhand's highest and most remote mountain passes, carrying memories of glaciers, sacred lakes, ancient forests, and the spectacular Himalayan panorama from 16,240 ft.
What's Included
Everything covered in your package
Inclusions
- Transportation: Dehradun–Sankri & Janki Chatti–Dehradun
- Accommodation (Guesthouse + Camping, triple/quad sharing)
- All meals during trek (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Certified trek leader & experienced local guides
- Support staff (cook & helpers)
- Camping equipment (Tents, Sleeping Bags, Mattresses)
- Safety equipment (First aid, Oxygen cylinder, Oximeter)
- Trekking permits & forest fees
Exclusions
- Personal expenses
- Emergency evacuation charges
- Porter / mule charges for personal luggage
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
Things to Carry
Essential gear for an 8-day high-altitude glacier trek to 16,240 ft
Payment Policy & Terms
Important booking information
Payment Policy: Pay ₹1,000 per head to reserve your seat. Remaining amount payable on arrival of trip. Any flight bookings shall be paid 100% in advance. 25% rescheduling charges apply.
Cancellation: If trek is called off due to natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (rains, earthquake, landslides, strike, pandemic etc), no refund will be provided. Alternatives may be offered based on situation.
Terms: Full payment must be made before trip begins. IDs shall be verified before boarding. Transfer of bookings is not permitted. Drinking & smoking strictly prohibited. Travelers must take care of their luggage. Management not responsible for damage or missing items.
Note: Due to weather, forest officers or government officials may forbid vehicle passage. Travelers may need to use local share transport. No refunds for inclusions not availed by client.
Payment Details
Secure your booking with UPI or bank transfer
Bank Transfer
Account: Explore Hills
A/C No: 5877892417
IFSC: CBIN0284083
Bank: Central Bank of India
Branch: Clement Town
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common queries about Bali Pass Trek
The starting price of the Bali Pass Trek is ₹17,999 per person. This includes transportation (Dehradun–Sankri and Janki Chatti–Dehradun), guesthouse and camping accommodation, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), certified trek leader, guides, support staff, camping equipment, safety equipment including oxygen cylinder, and all trekking permits and forest fees.
Yes, the Bali Pass Trek is classified as Moderate to Difficult. The challenges include steep ascents, high altitude up to 16,240 ft, glacier crossings, rocky terrain, and a demanding 8–10 hour summit day. Good physical fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience are strongly recommended before attempting this trek.
The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 16,240 ft (approximately 4,950 meters) at Bali Pass — one of the highest trekking passes accessible in Uttarakhand. The gradual acclimatisation through camps at Seema (8,500 ft), Devsu Thatch (10,200 ft), Ruinsara Tal (11,800 ft), Odari (13,100 ft), and Base Camp (15,100 ft) ensures the altitude gain is managed safely.
The best seasons are May to June and September to October. Late spring (May–June) offers snow-covered passes and lush alpine meadows. Autumn (September–October) brings clear skies, excellent mountain visibility, and stable weather conditions. The pass is generally inaccessible during winter and the monsoon period due to heavy snowfall and weather instability.
Yes — prior high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended. The Bali Pass Trek involves glacier crossings, 8 days of consecutive trekking, and a summit at 16,240 ft. Trekkers who have completed at least one previous high-altitude trek (above 12,000 ft) will be significantly better prepared for the demands of this expedition.
From Bali Pass at 16,240 ft, trekkers enjoy a spectacular 360-degree panorama including Swargarohini (21,650 ft) — the mythological stairway to heaven — Bandarpoonch (20,722 ft), and Kala Nag / Black Peak (20,308 ft), along with sweeping views of the Govind Pashu Vihar wilderness and the distant Yamunotri peaks.
Yes — the package includes all three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) throughout the trek, along with complete camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, and mattresses). A certified cook and support staff manage all campsite arrangements, so trekkers can focus entirely on the experience. Guesthouse accommodation is provided at Sankri on Day 1.
The trek starts from Sankri village in the Tons Valley of Uttarakhand (reached by a scenic drive from Dehradun) and ends at Janki Chatti — the base town for the Yamunotri Dham pilgrimage. Transportation from Dehradun to Sankri and from Janki Chatti back to Dehradun is included in the package, making it a fully managed point-to-point crossover trek.
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