




The Shrikhand Mahadev Trek in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu district is a revered pilgrimage that tests both endurance and faith. Widely regarded as one of the toughest treks in Himachal Pradesh, it challenges trekkers with steep climbs and high-altitude terrain before rewarding them with the awe-inspiring sight of a 75-foot natural Shivling atop Shrikhand Mahadev peak at 5,227 m. Counted among the sacred Panch Kailash, this spiritual journey holds the distinction of being the third most significant Kailash, offering one an unforgettable blend of devotion, adventure, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas.
This sacred trek in Himachal Pradesh begins with a scenic drive through Shimla, across the Satluj River, and into the Kullu district before arriving at Jaon Village, the base point of this trekking expedition. The trek officially starts with a 10 km hike from Jaon to Thachdu , where dense forests, rushing rivers, and crisp mountain air welcome trekkers to their first campsite. The ascent continues as the trail climbs through the striking Kali Ghati Pass to Bheemdwar, offering mesmerizing views of wildflowers, waterfalls, and golden Himalayan light. A strenuous 12 km trek then leads to the sacred Shrikhand Mahadev peak. Here, the towering natural Shivling stands as a symbol of divine power, rewarding devotees with awe-inspiring vistas and a profound sense of accomplishment.
The return journey retraces the serene route, allowing trekkers to savor the landscapes once more, camping again at Bheemdwar and Thachdu before descending to Jaon. Throughout the expedition, participants experience both the raw beauty of the Himalayas and the spiritual energy that draws pilgrims to this revered site year after year. Concluding back in Chandigarh, this sacred trek in Himachal Pradesh leaves travelers with memories of dramatic peaks, deep devotion, and an unforgettable communion with nature and faith.
Our journey begins early morning as we meet at Chandigarh Railway Station. From here, we cover nearly 250 km, passing through the scenic hill towns of Shimla and Rampur before driving alongside the mighty Satluj River toward Jaon Village. This journey showcases mountain landscapes like the distant Kullu and Kinnaur ranges. This first day marks the start of your Himalayas adventure, with Jaon Village at 2072 m / 6800 ft welcoming us with a cozy homestay, a hearty meal, and the excitement of the days to come.
The second day begins with an early breakfast in Jaon before we set off on a 10 km trek, which takes 7 to 8 hours. The route winds through dense deodar forests, charming riversides along the Kurpan River, and steep ascents that start testing our stamina. As we gain altitude, we start to feel the rhythm of trekking in the Himalayas while enjoying the fresh air and endless mountain views that reward us. By afternoon, we reach Thachdu at 3444 m/11300 ft, a campsite set against pristine peaks where we enjoy a warm dinner, laughter, and rest under the starry sky.
After breakfast, we leave Thachdu and set out for Bheemdwar, covering around 10 km in 6 to 7 hours. The trail takes us through the dramatic Kali Ghati Pass, a high point offering jaw-dropping views of the Rangrik Range and cascading waterfalls below. Wildflowers bloom along the way, and streams fed by glacial melt cross our path, making this one of the most scenic stretches. After a lunch halt, we continue deeper into the wilderness, arriving at Bheemdwar at 4145 m/13600 ft by late afternoon. This serene meadow, nestled between towering ridges, becomes our campsite for the night, another milestone in one of the best treks in North India.
This is the most awaited and spiritually significant day of the journey. From Bheemdwar, we begin a challenging 12 km trek to Shrikhand Mahadev, which rises at 5227 m/17150 ft as a towering Shivling believed to represent Lord Shiva himself. The path is steep and rocky, but as we climb higher, views of the Parvati Valley and snowy Himalayan summits keep our spirits alive. Here, devotion meets endurance, making this one of the top sacred treks in Himachal Pradesh, where spirituality blends seamlessly with raw mountain adventure. After rituals and darshan at the holy peak, we carefully descend back to Bheemdwar, humbled and fulfilled by the divine experience.
At sunrise, we begin retracing our path from Bheemdwar to Thachdu, a 10 km return trek that takes 5 to 6 hours. Passing once again through the rugged terrain of Kali Ghati, we get fresh perspectives of the same valleys, ridges, and streams, each view reminding us of the grandeur of the Himalayas. With a relaxed pace, there's time to take photographs and enjoy the landscape at leisure. By afternoon, we return to Thachdu, where our campsite awaits, and spend the evening sharing stories and camaraderie amid one of the most cherished trekking expeditions in Himachal Pradesh.
The sixth day marks our descent, as we cover 12 km down from Thachdu to Jaon in 6 to 7 hours. The forested trails, the rushing Kurpan River, and the mountain's silence leave us reflecting on the incredible journey we've had. Descending feels easier on the body but just as rich in emotion, as every bend recalls the effort of the climb. This stretch captures the essence of hiking in Himachal Pradesh, where the journey is as meaningful as the destination. By late afternoon, we arrive at Jaon Village, where rest and relaxation bring a comforting close to our trekking days.
On the final day, we drive nearly 250 km back from Jaon to Chandigarh, once again following the route along the Satluj River. The 9-10-hour drive is filled with goodbyes and nostalgia, as we reflect on the friendships, laughter, and spiritual energy that defined the trek. By evening, we reach Chandigarh Railway Station, officially concluding the journey. With hearts full of memories and spirits lifted, you'll return home proud of completing one of the most rewarding trekking tours in the Himalayas.
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