Beas Kund Trek
The glacial source of the Beas River at roughly 3,700 metres, reached in 3 to 4 days from Manali through forest, meadows, and moraine. Views of Friendship Peak and Hanuman Tibba. Named after Sage Vyas. One of the best introductory Himalayan treks from Manali.
What makes it special
Beas Kund is the glacial lake where the Beas River is born. It sits at roughly 3,700 metres in the Kullu district, surrounded by a wall of peaks that includes Friendship Peak, Hanuman Tibba, Shitidhar, and the Seven Sisters. According to Hindu mythology, Sage Vyas (the author of the Mahabharata) meditated at this lake. The locals still consider the water sacred. Whether or not you care about the mythology, walking to the source of a river that flows through all of Kullu and Manali and eventually into Punjab is a quietly powerful experience.
The trek is short, 3 to 4 days from Manali and back, covering roughly 16 to 18 km of actual walking. It starts from the Dhundi area above Solang Valley, and you are in alpine meadows by the end of Day 1. The trail passes through boulder fields, glacier streams, and rolling grasslands before a steep final push to the lake on summit day. It is one of the most popular beginner treks in the Manali region, alongside the Bhrigu Lake Trek, and for good reason. You get a complete Himalayan experience, including forest, meadows, glacial terrain, and a high altitude lake, in just 3 days of walking.
Honest framing. This trek is easier than Bhrigu Lake. The altitude is lower (roughly 3,700 m versus 4,250 m), the altitude gain is more gradual, and the total distance per day is shorter. That said, the summit day push to Beas Kund has a steep, relentless section known locally as Lady Leg that catches people off guard. The moraine terrain near the lake requires careful footing. It is not a flat walk in the park. But if you have basic fitness, meaning you can walk 6 to 8 km uphill in a day with a light pack, you can handle this trek comfortably.
Most people do this trek with a guided operator. Packages from Manali generally cost Rs 3,500 to Rs 7,000 per person for 3 to 4 days, covering tents, meals, guides, forest permits, and the Manali to Dhundi transfer. Independent trekking is possible. The trail is well marked with yellow arrows in most sections, and there are other trekking groups on the route during the season. But at altitude, in rain, and on boulder fields, having an experienced guide is a meaningful safety advantage.
Is the Beas Kund trek worth it for a first timer?
Yes. It is one of the best introductory Himalayan treks. Short (3 to 4 days), manageable altitude (3,700 m), well marked trail, and a proper glacial lake at the source of the Beas River. The meadow camps and peak views are a genuine reward. Best done June to September.
How difficult is the Beas Kund trek?
Easy to moderate. Easier than Bhrigu Lake or Hampta Pass. The first two days are gentle walks through forest and meadow. Summit day has a steep section (Lady Leg) and boulder terrain near the lake. Basic walking fitness is enough. Train for 3 to 4 weeks before if you are coming from a sedentary lifestyle.
How many days does the Beas Kund trek take?
3 to 4 days from Manali and back. Day 1 is a drive to Dhundi and trek to the first meadow camp. Day 2 is the summit push to Beas Kund and back to camp. Day 3 is the descent and drive back to Manali. Some itineraries add a rest day or split Day 1 into two shorter stages.
Quick facts
Everything you need to know at a glance
At a glance
On the ground
Seasonal weather
Suitable for
How to reach Beas Kund Trek
4 approach routes with seasonal access
From Manali to Dhundi (drive)
Generally May to OctoberThe drive follows the road from Manali through Solang Valley and then continues up a rougher road to the Dhundi area. The last section of road is unpaved and can be bumpy. Most operators include this transfer. A private taxi costs roughly Rs 1,000 to 1,500 one way. There is a SASE (Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment) research station at Dhundi. Beyond this point, everything is on foot.
From Dhundi to Bakarthach (Day 1 trek)
June to OctoberThe trail starts with a gentle climb through pine and deodar forest along the Beas River. You cross the river at a couple of points (wooden bridges or boulder hops). After about 2 hours, the forest opens into the wide meadow at Bakarthach (also called Lohali by some operators). This is where most groups camp. Wild horses and sheep graze here. The campsite has stream water access. On a clear evening, the sunset behind the peaks is worth sitting out for.
From Bakarthach to Beas Kund and back (Day 2 summit)
June to OctoberThe hardest day. The trail climbs from the meadow through the Lady Leg section, a steep, sustained ascent of about 45 to 60 minutes. At the top, you enter the moraine zone: glacier deposited boulders where you need to pick your path carefully. Two waterfalls mark the approach to the kund. One falls directly into the lake, the other joins the river downstream. The lake itself is small, partially frozen in early and late season, and ringed by glacial debris with Friendship Peak rising directly behind. Spend time here, then retrace to camp. Start by 6 to 7 AM.
From Bakarthach to Dhundi (Day 3 descent)
June to OctoberRetrace the trail through meadow and forest back to Dhundi. The descent is faster than the climb. Most groups are back at Dhundi by midday and drive to Manali in the afternoon. If you have time, stop at Vashisht Hot Springs on the way back for a soak in natural hot water. Your legs will need it.
Best time to visit
Season-by-season breakdown to help you plan
Dry trails, some snow near the lake, the clearest mountain views
Dry conditions and some snow patches along the upper trail and near the lake. The meadows are just beginning to green. The air is crisp and clear, and peak views are sharp. Nights are cold, dropping below zero at the higher camps. This is a good window if you want to see the kund partially frozen and avoid monsoon rain. Fewer trekkers on the trail. Some operators begin batches in mid May depending on snow clearance.
The greenest meadows, strongest waterfalls, and yes, rain
This is when Indiahikes and most reputable operators recommend the trek. The meadows are at their greenest. Wildflowers bloom in July and August. The waterfall flow is at its strongest, and the lake is unfrozen. The trade off is rain. Expect muddy trails, slushy sections in the forest, and occasional full day downpours. Carry a good rain jacket and waterproof your bag. Leeches are possible in the lower forest. Despite the rain, this is the most scenic version of the trek, and many trekkers consider the monsoon atmosphere part of the experience.
Clear skies, golden meadows, dropping temperatures
The rain stops, the skies clear, and the peaks are at their sharpest. The meadows turn golden brown. Temperatures drop noticeably, especially at night. The lake may begin to freeze around the edges in late October. Fewer trekkers and quieter trails. A good window for photography and for people who dislike rain. Late October can bring early snow at higher elevations. Check conditions before booking.
Closed. Deep snow, frozen lake, road access uncertain
Deep snow buries the trail. The road to Dhundi may be closed. The lake is frozen. Most operators do not run batches. Do not attempt this in winter without a qualified snow trekking team. The trek effectively closes from November to April.
Things to see & do
4 experiences at Beas Kund Trek
The trek to Beas Kund
3 to 4 days from ManaliThe core experience. A 3 to 4 day trek from Dhundi above Solang Valley to the glacial Beas Kund at roughly 3,700 metres. You pass through pine forest, alpine meadows at Bakarthach, and then up through boulders and moraine to the lake. Summit day is the hardest, with a steep ascent through the Lady Leg section. The reward is the lake itself, sitting in a bowl of ice and rock with Friendship Peak towering directly above. Most people spend 30 to 60 minutes at the lake before heading back to camp.
Meadow camping and wildflower walks
Throughout the trekThe meadows at Bakarthach and Lohali are wide, sloping grasslands where shepherds graze their flocks. In July and August, wildflowers and wild strawberries appear along the trail. Wild mushrooms grow in the damp forest sections lower down. The meadow camps are genuinely beautiful places to spend a night, with clear views of the surrounding peaks and, on clear nights, one of the best star fields you will see anywhere near Manali.
Glacier and moraine exploration
3 to 4 hours on summit dayAs you approach Beas Kund on summit day, the trail enters a zone of glacier deposited boulders called moraine. This is where the Beas River begins as meltwater trickling between rocks. Two waterfalls feed the kund, one dropping directly into the lake and another joining the river downstream. Walking through this glacial landscape, with ice underfoot and peaks all around you, is the most dramatic section of the trek.
Post trek recovery at Vashisht Hot Springs
1 to 2 hours after the trekAfter 3 days on the trail, a soak in the Vashisht Hot Springs in Manali is one of the best ways to recover. The natural sulphur rich water at 40 to 50 degrees works on tired muscles in a way that a normal bath does not. The springs are about 3 km from Mall Road and free to use. Plan this for the afternoon you return from the trek.
Know before you visit Beas Kund Trek
Essential information for planning your visit
Nearby attractions
Other places worth visiting nearby
Manali's adventure valley with paragliding in summer and snow activities in winter. You drive through Solang on the way to Dhundi (the trek starting point). A good place to warm up the day before your trek or decompress afterwards.
A higher altitude glacial lake trek (4,250 m) that shares the same base area near Manali. If you have done Beas Kund and want something harder, Bhrigu Lake is the natural next step. More dramatic meadows, faster altitude gain, and a tougher summit day.
Natural sulphur rich hot springs at 40 to 50 degrees Celsius. Free public baths and an ancient temple. The best post trek stop in the Manali area. Your legs will thank you.
The 16th century wooden cave temple in a cedar forest. Visit on your rest day before or after the trek.
Cafes, cobbled lanes, and a relaxed backpacker atmosphere. A good place for a meal and unwinding before or after your trek.
A 4 to 5 day trek that crosses from the Kullu valley into Lahaul. More challenging than Beas Kund, with dramatic landscape transitions. Worth considering if you have a week and want a through trek experience.
Our Packages with Beas Kund Trek
Curated trips that include a visit to Beas Kund Trek
Planning a trip that includes Beas Kund Trek?
Not sure where to start? Just tell us your dates and what you're looking for, and we'll help you plan a trip that actually fits you.
Common questions about the Beas Kund Trek
Related guides
- Top 15 Offbeat Places Near Manali You Must Visit in 2026
- Shimla vs Manali for Honeymoon in 2026: Which One Is Better for You?
- Top 15 Offbeat Places for Photoshoots in Manali (2026 Photography Guide)
- Where to Find Snow in Manali in April: A Local Expert’s Honest Guide
- Solang in March 2026: Snowfall, Weather, Activities, Road Status and Travel Tips
- Solang Valley in April: What to Expect, How to Plan, and Is the Snow Still There?