Yulla Kanda Trek
Trek

Yulla Kanda Trek

Kinnaur Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh
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Altitude
15,068 ft
Duration
2-3 days
Distance
23.9 km
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Time
June to October
Base Camp
Yulla Village

Overview

Yulla Kanda is one of Himachal Pradesh's lesser-known high-altitude treks, offering a combination of natural beauty and spiritual significance. The journey starts from Yulla Village in Kinnaur and gradually climbs through apple orchards, pine forests, and open meadows before entering the alpine zone. Unlike commercial trekking routes, the trail remains quiet, making it ideal for trekkers seeking solitude.

The highlight of the trek is Yulla Lake, located at over 15,000 feet. Beside the lake stands a small temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, believed to be the highest Krishna temple in the world. Local legends say the Pandavas visited this region during their exile, and the lake continues to hold deep religious importance for nearby villages.

The final ascent involves loose rocks, steep climbs, and high-altitude terrain where weather can change quickly. Acclimatization is important, and trekkers should be prepared for cold nights even during summer. Clear mornings reward you with sweeping views of the Kinnaur Kailash range and surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Photos And Videos

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Highlights

  • Visit the world's highest Krishna temple.
  • Camp beside the sacred Yulla Lake.
  • Trek through traditional Kinnauri villages.
  • Walk across alpine meadows and pine forests.
  • Panoramic views of the Kinnaur Himalayas.
  • Peaceful offbeat trail with very few trekkers.
  • Rich local folklore linked to the Pandavas.
  • Excellent summer high-altitude trek.
  • Ideal for photography and stargazing.
  • Authentic Himalayan camping experience.

Trek Details

Altitude
15,068 ft
Total Distance
23.9 km
Trek Duration
2-3 days
Route Type
Point To Point
Base Camp
Yulla Village
Accommodation
Tents
Best Time
June to October
Difficulty
Moderate
Fitness Level
Intermediate
Region
Kinnaur Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh
Season
Summer, Autumn
Family Friendly
Check with operator

Seasons

SummerAutumn

Departure Cities

ShimlaReckong PeoKalpaChandigarh

Terrain

High altitudeSnowMeadowRidge walk

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Reckong Peo / Kalpa to Yulla Village – Trek to Base Camp

    Drive to Yulla Village and complete the registration process. Begin the trek through apple orchards, pine forests, and alpine meadows. The trail climbs steadily with a few steep sections before reaching the base camp. Settle into camp, enjoy views of the surrounding Kinnaur peaks, and rest early for the summit day.

  2. 2

    Base Camp – Yulla Kanda Lake – Krishna Temple – Return to Base Camp

    Start before sunrise and climb through rocky alpine terrain to the sacred Yulla Kanda Lake. Visit the Krishna Temple beside the lake, believed to be the highest Krishna temple in the world. Spend time exploring the lake and surrounding ridges before descending carefully to the base camp for the night.

  3. 3

    Base Camp – Yulla Village – Departure

    After breakfast, descend through meadows and forest trails back to Yulla Village. The downhill walk is gradual and takes around 3–4 hours. From the village, drive back to Reckong Peo or Kalpa, bringing the trek to a close.

Things to Carry

Backpack (50–60L)
Rain cover
Trekking shoes with ankle support
Camp shoes
Quick-dry trekking pants
Moisture-wicking T-shirts
Thermal base layers
Fleece jacket
Down jacket
Waterproof jacket
Waterproof pants
Woollen cap
Sun cap
Buff
Woollen gloves
Extra socks
Trekking pole
Headlamp
Water bottles (2 litres)
Thermos
Sunscreen SPF 50+
UV sunglasses
Lip balm
Personal medicine
Energy bars
Dry fruits
Power bank
Quick-dry towel
Personal toiletries
Government ID
Reviews

Trek reviews

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