Overview
The Seven Lakes Trek is a multi-day high-altitude route in the Dhauladhar Range above Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj. It combines mountain lakes, rocky passes, alpine terrain, and remote camping areas. Depending on the itinerary, the approach may include Triund and Laka Got before continuing towards Indrahar Pass and the upper Dhauladhar lake region.
The lakes commonly associated with published itineraries include Nag Dal, Lam Dal, Kali Kund, Chanderkup, Dham Ghodi, and Kareri Lake. Some routes also include Nagara Dal or other smaller lakes. The name “Seven Lakes” therefore does not correspond to one universally agreed list: the lake sequence and grouping can differ.
Several lakes have religious importance in local traditions. Lam Dal, in particular, is regarded as a sacred lake. The surrounding landscape also reflects the pastoral history of the Dhauladhar mountains.
This is a serious high-altitude trek. Steep ascents, exposed rocky sections, possible snow, remote campsites, and rapidly changing weather can make conditions challenging.
Highlights
- Nag Dal
- Lam Dal
- Kali Kund
- Chanderkup
- Dham Ghodi Lake
- Kareri Lake
- Dhauladhar mountain passes
Trek Details
Seasons
Departure Cities
Terrain
Itinerary
- 1
Bhagsu Nag to Triund(2850m) (9kms 4 hours walk)
Begin from the Dharamshala side and reach Triund, the first major camping area. The route passes through forest and opens onto panoramic views of the Dhauladhar mountains.
- 2
Triund to Upper Laka(3500m) ( 7kms 5 hours )
Continue into the higher mountain terrain through the Khabrotu and Kunal Pathri area towards Upper Laka. This stage helps transition from the lower trekking trail to alpine terrain.
- 3
Indrahar Pass(4250 m ) and Nag Dal(4000m) (6kms 6 to 7 hours )
The published route crosses the Indrahar Pass area before reaching Nag Dal. This is a particularly demanding high-altitude section.
- 4
Chanderkup Lake and Dham Ghori Lake( 9 kms , 7 to 8 Hours walk)
Explore the high-altitude lake region around Chanderkup Lake and Dham Ghori, with the route itinerary including Dham Ghori Pass.
- 5
Lam Dal, Kali Kund and Ngara Dal( 5 kms 4 hours )
Visit the prominent alpine lakes in the Dhauladhar region. Lam Dal is especially notable for its size and cultural significance.
- 6
Minkiani Pass and Kareri Lake(5kms 7 hours )
The route crosses the Minkiani Pass region before continuing towards Kareri Lake.
- 7
Kareri Lake to Kareri Village(10 km 5 to 6 hours walk)
Finish the route by descending towards Kareri Village, followed by onward transport to Dharamshala.
Things to Carry
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