McLeodGanj has started gaining popularity over the years for the trekking destinations around it. One such destination is trekking to Laka Glacier via Triund This trek is set at an altitude of 9,500 feet and offers a spectacular view of the entire valley. This exhibits nature at its prime and you can enjoy your trek with thrilling mountain climb and lifetime of memories. You get to experience some of the rare moments like camping at the ridge of the mountain, walking along Dhauladhar range and trekking towards the Laka Glacier. You can also camp at this site and indulge in some fun activities with your friends.
An interesting aspect of this trek is that even though it is a short trek of 13 km it brings you close to the snowline and takes you to the Glacier of Laka. One of the popular destinations for spending your weekend. The month of July marks the melting of snow and till the post monsoon months arrives there is little to no snow and you can only see moraines and ravines. However, the pre-monsoon months like March to June are covered with a white blanket of snow on the glacier and these months are known to be the best one to take up on the Laka Glacier Trek.
Itinerary for Laka Glacier Trek
Here is the day-wise itinerary for the Laka Glacier Trek via Triund.
Day 1: Bhagsu Nag – Triund
Starting your trek from the Bhagsu Nag, a place famous for its temple and waterfall, the trail takes a steep ascent towards the Triund. The starting patch of forest gives way to coniferous forest of Pine, Oak and Deodar trees which eventually opens up to a beautiful meadow. From Here you can indulge in the awe-inspiring views of the Kangra Valley along with the Dhauladhar mountain ranges covered in snow. After reaching Triund you can bask in the serenity of the place and set up your tents. You can even stay at the rest house available in Triund. Triund in itself is one kind of an adventure pairing it with Laka Glacier trek just makes it all the more beautiful.
Day 2: Triund – Khabrotu – Laka Glacier and Back to Triund
On the next day, start early with rejuvenating energy to begin with your new adventure. Have a sufficient nutritious breakfast to maintain the energy. This day begins to cover the final stretch towards Laka glacier. Trekkers will tread along the glacial moraine to reach Khabrotu, a view point from where you will see the Dhauladhar range in all its glory. After having your fill, you can walk towards Laka Glacier and capture the panoramic moment. The entire region remains covered in snow from March to May. After spending some time, head to Triund to stay in a rest house or camp.
Day 3: Triund – BhagsuNag waterfall
Even though it took you two days to cover 14 km, the downhill journey becomes easier and you will be able to make your descent in about 5 hours to Bhagsu Nag from Triund. The route taken to reach Bhagsu Nag will be a bit different and you will cross Laheta village. The trek comes to an end at BhagsuNag waterfall.
Best Time for the trek in Laka Glacier
The best time to visit would be from March to June, when the glacier is at its prime. These months are perfect in terms of weather and temperature along with the magnificent views of the Laka Glacier. The summer months raise the temperature of the surrounding area and the glacier starts to melt and you can see the green and brown colour underneath. These months are from July to the post monsoon months till October. The winter months are too cold and make it difficult for the trekkers to adapt with the environment.
Things to Carry
- Waterproof Backpack of at least 40 to 60 Ltrs
- Hiking Shoes that are comfortable
- 3-4 Regular wears
- 2 Pair of Comfortable track pants or pants
- Sweater / Cardigan / Jacket
- Thermal inner wear
- Daypack
- Waist Pouch to keep your utilities at hand’s length
- Woollen Scarf and Baclava
- 4 to 5 pairs of Warm Socks
- Comfy Flip-flops
- Waterproof and Warm Gloves
- raincoat for occasional rains
- Headlamp to navigate around
- Trekking Pole
- Water Bottle of at least 2 litres
- Energy bars, ORS or Energy drink to keep you energised
- Safety pins and sewing kit in case of emergency
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen
- Camera and batteries
- Toiletries
- plastic bags
- Your own medical Kit with Pain-Killer, Band-aid, antiseptic ointment and cotton)
