Bali Pass
Alt: 16,207 ft | 8N9D
Your Gateway to Himalayan Wonders
Bali Pass is more than just a trek; it’s a journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Connecting the lush Har Ki Dun Valley with the sacred Yamunotri, this trail is a perfect blend of raw grandeur and spiritual serenity. The trek traverses through the confluence of the Tons and Ruinsara rivers, past the untouched beauty of Ruinsara Valley, and over the meadows of Devsu Thach. As you ascend into the alpine zone, nature reveals its stark and rugged beauty.
Standing at an altitude of 16,207 feet, the Bali Pass offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, and Swargarohini peaks—a reward worthy of the challenging ascent. Along the way, trekkers will explore heritage villages like Osla, Gangaad, and Taluka, witness mesmerizing waterfalls, and camp near the pristine Ruinsara Lake.
Spanning 66 km from Taluka to Janki Chatti, the trek demands endurance, skill, and an adventurous spirit. With steep climbs, sharp descents, and high altitudes, it’s a test of grit, making it ideal for seasoned trekkers. Solo adventurers are advised to take a guide to navigate the tricky trails and ensure safety on this demanding yet incredibly rewarding trek.
Bali Pass is where the Himalayas challenge you, inspire you, and leave you in awe—a true testament to the spirit of exploration.
Itinerary:
DAY 1-Drive from Dehradun to Sankri
Distance – Approx 190 kms, Hours – 8-9hrs
Our adventure begins with a scenic drive from Dehradun to Sankri, covering a distance of 190 kilometers in approximately 8 hours. This journey offers glimpses of the pristine Tons River and passes through picturesque Uttarakhand villages like Damta, Purola, Mori, and Netwar. As we arrive at the quaint village of Sankri, nestled at the base of the Greater Himalayas, we are greeted by an unparalleled view of the setting sun over the majestic peaks. With no phone network to distract us, Sankri allows us to immerse ourselves in nature’s grandeur. We spend the night in cozy accommodations, either in hotels or homestays, preparing for the trek ahead.
DAY 2- Trek from Sankri to Seema via Taluka
Distance – 14 km, Hours – 5-6hours, Altitude – 2,560 m.
After a hearty breakfast, we drive to Taluka, a short ride of about an hour. Here begins our trek, a 14-kilometer journey through the enchanting Govind Pashu National Park. The trail meanders alongside the lively Supin River, under the shade of walnut, pine, deodar, and maple trees. Along the way, we pass villages with smiling locals and fields of red amaranth, known as cholai. Crossing streams and navigating stony paths, we eventually spot the charming village of Gangad across the river and the well-known Osla village further ahead. Finally, we arrive at Seema, a peaceful settlement where we camp for the night or stay with a local family, soaking in the region’s cultural essence.
DAY 3- Trek from Seema to Roiltia (Waterfall Camp)
Distance – 13 km; Hours: 6-7 hrs, Altitude – 3350m.
Leaving the last human settlements behind, we venture deeper into nature on a 13-kilometer trek that takes about 6 hours. The trail follows the Supin River, which eventually joins the Tons River. Ascending through lush deodar forests, we reach the serene Devsu Thatch meadow, offering breathtaking views of the Swargarohini ranges and Kalanag (Black Peak). As we descend into the Ruinsara Valley, the landscape becomes increasingly remote and magical. We end the day at Roiltia, camping beside a waterfall-fed stream under a starlit sky.
DAY 4- Trek from Waterfall Camp to Ruinsara Lake
Distance-4km, Hours- 2-3hrs, Altitude- 3600m.
This short yet captivating trek of 4 kilometers brings us to the stunning Ruinsara Tal in just 2 hours. The trail transitions from pine and fir forests to birch and rhododendron trees, offering a noticeable change in vegetation. As we approach the sacred alpine lake, we are greeted by its pristine waters and surrounding meadows. Ruinsara Tal, part of a trio of lakes in Garhwal, is a sight to behold with its tranquil ambiance and vibrant rhododendron blooms. We set up camp by the lake and spend the night in this enchanting locale.
DAY 5- Explore Ruinsara Lake or Trek to Thanga
Distance- 3km, Hours- 1.5hrs, Altitude- 3500m
Ruinsara Lake, situated at 3,500 meters, is an ideal spot to acclimatize before proceeding to higher altitudes. The lake’s serene beauty, surrounded by meadows, alpine flowers, and rhododendron bushes, offers a perfect setting to relax or explore nearby areas. Trekkers can take short hikes to places like the Banderpunch Glacier or Kyarkoti, the base camp for Kalanag and Dumdar Kandi Pass. Whether it’s engaging in games, reading, or soaking in the stillness of nature, this day allows us to rejuvenate before continuing our journey.
DAY 6- Trek from Ruinsara Lake to Bali Pass Basecamp
Distance- 8km, Hours- 7hrs, Altitude- 4600m
Starting early, we embark on an 8-kilometer trek to the Bali Pass Basecamp. The trail descends to a shallow riverbed before climbing to the meadow of Thanga. This meadow offers awe-inspiring views of the Swargarohini ranges and Kyarkoti Valley. As we ascend further, we reach Odari, a spot steeped in mythological significance as the resting place of Bali, Hanuman’s brother. Finally, we arrive at the basecamp, nestled below the Bali Pass amidst glacial moraine. Camping here at 4,600 meters under sub-zero temperatures is an exhilarating experience, setting the stage for the next day’s summit.
Day 7- Bali Pass Basecamp to Lower Dhamni via Bali Pass
Distance- 12km, Hours- 9hrs, Altitude- 4900m
We start before dawn to cross the Bali Pass, aiming to reach the summit by 8 a.m. The ascent, though steep, is manageable with steady footing on glacial scree. Once at the top, we are rewarded with panoramic views of the Yamunotri Valley, hints of the Saptrishi Kund, and towering peaks like Banderpunch and Dayara Bugyal. The descent takes us down a connecting ridge to the lush camping grounds of Lower Dhamni. This 12-kilometer trek, though challenging, leaves us with memories of unparalleled vistas.
Day 8– Lower Dhamni to Yamunotri to Janki Chatti
Distance- 12km, Hours- 6hrs, Altitude- 2400m
The trail descends through dense forests to the Yamunotri shrine, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Here, we pay our respects to the Goddess Yamuna at her temple, set against the backdrop of the Bandarpunch peaks. Following the pilgrim trail, we trek to Janki Chatti, where we rest for the night in a guesthouse. Despite being back in civilization, the sense of serenity from the trek lingers.
Day 9-Drive from Janki Chatti to Dehradun
Distance- 190km, Hours- 8-9hrs.
On the final day, we drive back to Dehradun, covering 190 kilometers over 8 hours. En route, we have the option to visit popular attractions like Kempty Falls, Nainbagh, and Mussoorie, rounding off our adventure with a touch of sightseeing. With our hearts full of cherished memories and a newfound connection to the Himalayas, we conclude this incredible journey.
