Echoes of Kailash : Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra - Day 1 (Kheerganga)

Day 1: Kalga to Kheerganga | Journey through a Flood Changed Landscape

In this first episode of our 10-day expedition, we embark on a journey from the tranquil village of Kalga in Parvati Valley, trekking to Kheerganga. While the route up to Day 4 follows the usual trail taken by trekkers heading towards the famous Pin Parvati Pass, our challenge was heightened due to the aftermath of the devastating Himachal floods in July 2023.

We kick off the episode with a 3D tour of our route on Google Earth, showcasing the landscapes we traversed and the passes we crossed along the way. This trek is unique because it takes us to three sacred abodes of Bholenath—Kheerganga on Day 1, Mantalai on Day 4, and Shrikhand Mahadev, our final destination, on Day 10.

Kheerganga, perched at 2950 meters, is known for its revered Bholenath Temple and the healing waters of its hot spring. Though this trail is popular among tourists, our journey was far more demanding, with each of us carrying over 25 kg in our backpacks, which made the trek more grueling.

As the expedition unfolds, it will only get more thrilling and intense. This is just the beginning of an epic adventure through some of the most breathtaking and challenging terrain in the Himalayas!