Bali Pass Trek
8N/9D Dehradun → Sankri → Ratha Tho → Bali Pass Uttarakhand-Trek, Trek, Summer Trek, Adventure Trip, Difficult Trek
Overview
The Bali Pass Trek is one of the most spectacular and challenging high-altitude treks located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. This trek is famous for its pristine alpine meadows, crystal-clear glacial lakes, towering Himalayan peaks, and thrilling mountain passes. Bali Pass sits at an altitude of approximately 5,200 meters (17,060 feet), making it a true high-altitude adventure suited for experienced trekkers.
The trek typically starts from the charming village of Osla or Gangani in the Har Ki Dun valley and takes trekkers through remote and untouched landscapes, including the stunning Kedartal Lake, also known as the Shiva Lake. Crossing the Bali Pass provides panoramic views of snow-capped peaks such as Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and Kalanag, making it a photographer's paradise.
This trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, challenging terrains including snowfields, rocky ridges, and glaciers, and rich local culture as you pass through quaint Himalayan villages. The journey usually spans 10 to 12 days, including acclimatization, allowing trekkers to experience the diverse ecosystems of the Western Himalayas.
Best attempted between June and October, the Bali Pass Trek requires good physical fitness and prior trekking experience due to its high altitude and technical sections. Permits from the Uttarakhand Forest Department are mandatory, and hiring a knowledgeable guide is highly recommended for safety.
The Bali Pass Trek is a gateway to some of the most remote Himalayan landscapes and remains one of the most rewarding treks for adventure enthusiasts seeking solitude, breathtaking vistas, and a deep connection with nature.
Short Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (1,950 m)
- Day 2: Sankri to Seema / Osla via Taluka (2,500 m)
- Day 3: Osla to Har Ki Dun (3,500 m)
- Day 4: Har Ki Dun to Ratha Tho / Simatra (3,800 m)
- Day 5: Ratha Tho to Bali Odari (4,300 m)
- Day 6: Bali Odari to Bali Pass Summit (5,200 m), descend to Lower Dhamni (3,600 m)
- Day 7: Lower Dhamni to Janki Chatti (2,650 m) Buffer / Rest / Contingency Day
- Day 8: Drive back from Janki Chatti to Dehradun
Tour Inclusions
- 1 night stay in a guesthouse/homestay at Sankri (base village)
- Tented accommodation during the trek on a twin/triple sharing basis
- Basic sleeping bags, foam mats, and camping equipment included
- All meals during the trek (from Sankri to Janki Chatti) Breakfast, packed lunch, evening snacks, and dinner
- Hot drinks like tea/coffee/soup provided as per the itinerary
- Nutritional vegetarian meals prepared by trekking cooks
- Experienced trek leader
- Local mountain guide familiar with terrain and safety protocols
- Support staff including cook, helper, and porters/mules for group gear
- Ratio: 1 guide for every 6–8 trekkers for safety and coordination
- Forest entry permits and environmental fees
- Camping charges at designated locations
- Government-mandated trekking insurance (if included in the package)
- Dome/Alpine tents, kitchen tent, and toilet tent
- Sleeping bags (suitable for -10°C), foam mats
- Basic mountaineering equipment (if needed) ropes, microspikes, gaiters
- First aid kit, oxygen cylinder, and pulse oximeter for emergencies
- Dehradun to Sankri (shared vehicle – pickup point fixed)
- Janki Chatti to Dehradun drop at the end of the trek (Private or deluxe transport available at additional cost)
- Pre-trek briefing and registration
- Trek completion certificate (on request)
- Waste disposal and eco-responsible practices followed during trek
Tour Exclusions
- Trekker’s own trekking shoes, jackets, gloves, poles, headlamps, and backpacks.
- Sleeping bags/liners (if you prefer using your own)
- Travel expenses to/from Dehradun (trek start and end point)
- Flights, trains, or buses to reach Dehradun are not included
- Meals during travel to Sankri or after finishing the trek Snacks, personal food items, mineral water, soft drinks, or bottled beverages
- Travel insurance, high-altitude trek insurance, or evacuation insurance
- Any medical expenses, treatments, doctor visits, or hospital costs
- Expenses related to altitude sickness, injuries, or emergencies
- Helicopter evacuation or mule hire in case of injury or altitude issues
- Any expenses due to trip deviation, evacuation, or delays caused by natural disasters or weather
- Porters to carry personal backpacks are not included
- Can be arranged at additional cost (usually ₹300–₹500 per day per porter)
- Extra hotel nights in Dehradun, Sankri, or Janki Chatti
- Extended stays due to acclimatization delays or early arrival
- Tips to guides, cooks, porters (optional but appreciated)
- Camera/video charges, hot water at base camps (if applicable)
- Laundry, personal phone usage, battery charging, etc.
- Additional entry fees/permits for non-Indian citizens, as per forest regulations
Tour Policy
- 1. Booking confirmation on advance payment
- 2. Cancellation policy with applicable charges
- 3. No refund for last-minute cancellations
- 4. Itinerary subject to change due to weather or unforeseen events
- 5. Travel insurance is recommended
- 6. Client responsibility for personal belongings
- 7. Respect local customs and traditions
- 8. Follow guide instructions
- 9. Package validity for specified dates only
- 10. Disputes subject to jurisdiction of company location
Tour Cancellation Policy
- 1. Free cancellation up to 7 days before departure
- 2. 50% refund for cancellations made 3 to 6 days before departure
- 3. No refund for cancellations less than 3 days before departure
- 4. Cancellation request must be made in writing
- 5. Cancellation charges may apply for partial services
- 6. Non-refundable booking amount in some cases
- 7. Rescheduling allowed subject to availability and charges
- 8. Refunds processed within 15-20 business days
- 9. No-show considered as cancellation with no refund
- 10. Emergency cancellations handled on case-by-case basis
The Bali Pass Trek begins with your arrival in Sankri, a beautiful village in Uttarkashi district and a common base for treks in the Garhwal Himalayas. On Day 1, you drive from Dehradun to Sankri, covering around 190 km through scenic towns like Mussoorie, Purola, and Mori. The journey takes about 8–10 hours and offers breathtaking views of pine forests and rivers. Once in Sankri (1,950 m), you check into a guesthouse, rest, and prepare for the trek ahead.
On Day 2, you begin the trek with a short drive to Taluka (12 km), a remote village surrounded by dense deodar forests. From here, the real trek begins as you walk around 14 km to reach Seema/Osla (2,500 m), a beautiful village known for its wooden homes and warm local culture. The trail follows the Supin River, crossing through pine and rhododendron forests, small wooden bridges, and occasional waterfalls.
Day 3 takes you from Osla to the stunning alpine valley of Har Ki Dun (3,500 m), a 10–11 km trek that gradually ascends through open meadows and forest trails. Along the way, you’ll get clear views of Swargarohini, Hata Peak, and Black Peak (Kalanag). Har Ki Dun, meaning "Valley of Gods," is known for its wide meadows and mythological significance, making this a spiritual and scenic resting point.
On Day 4, you leave the relatively well-known Har Ki Dun trail behind and head toward Ratha Tho or Simatra (approx. 3,800 m). This 6–7 km trek moves into more rugged and isolated terrain. The forests begin to thin out, replaced by boulders, streams, and alpine flora. As the altitude increases, the air gets thinner, so it’s important to maintain a slow pace and stay hydrated. You’ll camp at a peaceful high-altitude location under the stars.
Day 5 takes you to Bali Odari (4,300 m), a small natural shelter said to be associated with the legend of King Bali. This day’s trek is shorter (about 5 km) and helps with acclimatization before the big climb the next day. The surroundings become more glacial, with dramatic rocky formations and patches of snow. You’ll reach early in the day and rest at the base of the pass to prepare for the summit push.
Day 6 is the most exciting and challenging day of the trek — the Bali Pass summit day. You’ll start early, often before sunrise, to avoid unstable snow conditions. The ascent to Bali Pass (5,200 m) is steep, icy, and often requires snow gear like microspikes or ropes. After reaching the top, you're rewarded with stunning 360° views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kala Nag peaks. The descent on the other side is steep and technical as well, eventually leading to the campsite at Lower Dhamni (3,600 m). This day takes about 10–11 hours of trekking and demands good fitness and stamina.
On Day 7, you descend further from Lower Dhamni to Janki Chatti, a pilgrimage town near Yamunotri. The trek down is steep but scenic, with oak and pine forests returning to the landscape. Once in Janki Chatti, you can take a hot water bath in the local thermal springs and relax. From here, you’ll drive back to Dehradun, marking the end of your adventurous high-altitude journey.
Clothing & Footwear:
- 1. Comfortable cotton clothes
- 2. Modest attire for temple visits
- 3. Comfortable walking shoes
- 4. Sunhat or cap
- 5. Sunglasses
- 6. Light jacket or shawl for evenings
- 7. Footwear easy to remove for temple visits
- 8. Rain protection during monsoon
Personal Essentials:
- 1. Valid ID proof
- 2. Travel documents and tickets
- 3. Personal medications
- 4. Mobile phone and charger
- 5. Cash and cards
- 6. Sunscreen
- 7. Hand sanitizer
- 8. Toiletries
- 9. Water bottle
- 10. Small first aid kit
Medical & First Aid Kit:
- 1. Basic pain relievers
- 2. Antiseptic cream
- 3. Band-aids
- 4. Allergy medicines
- 5. Digestive aids
- 6. Motion sickness tablets
- 7. Thermometer
- 8. Prescription medicines if any
- 9. Hydration salts
- 10. Insect repellent
₹75,000
₹7,800 per person*
*Excluding applicable taxes
Tour Type
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FAQ Regarding This Trek
Avoid monsoon (July–August) due to landslides and unstable terrain.