Route: Kasol (5,184 ft) → Barshaini (7,000 ft) → Nakthan Village → Rudranag Waterfall → Kheerganga (9,678 ft)
Trek Distance: 12 km
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Trail Type: Gradual ascent with forested paths, wooden bridges, and scenic waterfalls
Morning Start – Drive to Barshaini
Begin your journey from Kasol or Manikaran, the gateway to the Parvati Valley. A short drive of around 16 km (30–40 minutes) takes you to Barshaini, the starting point of the trek. Barshaini is a small village situated at the
confluence of the Parvati and Tosh Rivers, surrounded by pine forests and charming wooden houses.
You can grab breakfast or last-minute supplies here before starting the trek.
Trek Begins – Barshaini to Nakthan Village (4 km / 1.5–2 hours)
From Barshaini, take the well-marked trail on the left side of the dam that leads toward Kheerganga. The initial climb is gradual, passing through dense deodar and pine forests, and alongside the glistening Parvati River.
After about 1.5 hours, you reach Nakthan Village, a traditional Himachali settlement where wooden homes dot the hillside. You can stop for tea and snacks here while enjoying views of snow-clad peaks in the distance.
Highlight:
Nakthan is also the trail junction for Tosh Village, another popular backpacker destination.
Nakthan – Rudranag Waterfall (3 km / 1.5 hours)
Continue on a slightly steeper trail, weaving through apple orchards and wooden bridges over small streams. Soon you’ll arrive at the Rudranag Waterfall, named after Lord Shiva. This waterfall cascades dramatically down the rocks, and the nearby small temple adds a spiritual charm.
Rudranag is the perfect resting point for trekkers. Many locals sell chai, Maggi, and refreshments here.
The sound of the Parvati River flowing beside the forested cliffs makes this section magical.
Rudranag – Kheerganga Top (5 km / 2 hours)
From Rudranag, the trail becomes steeper with multiple switchbacks. The forest thickens as you climb higher, offering shade and serenity. Wooden steps and natural rock pathways guide you through moss-covered boulders and chirping birds.
The final stretch opens into a lush green meadow — the famous Kheerganga.You are now standing at 9,678 feet, surrounded by towering peaks and panoramic views of the Parvati Valley.
Arrival & Evening at Kheerganga
Upon reaching the top, settle into your campsite or wooden huts. The
highlight here is the natural hot water spring, located near a small Shiva
temple. Soak in the thermal waters, believed to have medicinal properties,
as you gaze at snow-capped peaks and feel the mountain mist around you.
Sunset Magic:
The evening sky at Kheerganga glows with golden-orange hues as the sun dips behind the Parvati range. The valley below fills with fog, creating an otherworldly view.
End your day with a bonfire, simple Himachali dinner, and stories under a starry night sky.
Highlights of the Day:
● Scenic drive through Parvati Valley
● Villages: Barshaini → Nakthan → Rudranag
● Rudranag waterfall & Shiva temple
● Dense deodar-pine forests and river crossings
● Soothing natural hot spring at Kheerganga
● Mesmerizing sunset and starlit night
Night Stay:
Camps at Kheerganga
Altitude: 9,678 feet
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