When I first decided to take on the Bali Pass Trek, I knew it would be a journey unlike any other. The idea of hiking through dense forests, crossing glaciers, and conquering a challenging pass at over 4,000 meters felt exhilarating, yet daunting. This trek promises stunning views, a mix of terrains, and a sense of accomplishment that’s hard to beat. If you’ve ever thought about hiking Bali Pass, let me take you through my adventure day-by-day and share some of the challenges, triumphs, and tips that made this journey unforgettable.
Day 1: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab – The Trek Begins
My trek kicked off from Sankri, a quaint little village that serves as the base for many treks in the region. After a long drive from Dehradun, we arrived in Sankri and met with our fellow trekkers and guide. This was the start of my Himalayan trip, so I was both anxious and excited!
The trek from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (around 5 km) was relatively easy, a warm-up for the days ahead. We hiked through charming villages, crossed fields with grazing cattle, and slowly gained altitude. The trail meandered through pine forests, and we were treated to views of the distant snow-capped peaks. The air felt fresh, and the sounds of birds and flowing streams were soothing. I could feel the tranquility of nature embracing me more and more as we traveled.
The highlight of this day was the Juda Ka Talab lake, a small but stunning glacial pond surrounded by towering trees. I couldn’t help but stop to take in the peace of the place. The water was so motionless that it mirrored the sky. The surrounding forest made the location feel magical, and I could already sense the serenity this trek would provide.
As we set up camp by the lake, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. The simplicity of the surroundings was humbling, and the air felt so pure. The night was cold, but nothing compared to the excitement of the adventure ahead. The stars overhead were dazzling, and we had a chance to connect with our fellow trekkers, share stories, and get to know one another better. Everyone was eager, and the camaraderie in the group made the journey feel even more special.
Day 2: Juda Ka Talab to Bali Pass Base Camp – Feeling the Challenge
On day 2, I could already feel the trek becoming more challenging. We were heading towards Bali Pass Base Camp, which was about 9-10 kilometers away. The air became thinner and the climb began to feel steeper. As I hiked through dense forests and alpine meadows, I realized just how much this trek demands both physically and mentally.
The weather, while mostly clear in the morning, started to turn as we climbed higher. It was as if nature was preparing us for the challenges ahead. The path grew rockier, and we had to step carefully. There were sections where we had to pull ourselves up by using trees and roots as handholds, making the journey even more exciting. Along the way, I was able to take in the full beauty of the landscape—the rugged terrain, the distant peaks, and the quiet alpine surroundings. We had the impression that we were traveling to another planet.
By the time we reached Bali Pass Base Camp (at 4,200 meters), I was tired but exhilarated. The towering peaks of Kalanag (Black Peak) and Swargarohini were visible in the distance, making me forget my fatigue. Standing at the base camp, I knew the hard part was just about to begin. This was the moment I’d been working towards, and I couldn’t help but feel a rush of accomplishment.
We camped here for the night, preparing ourselves for the next day’s ascent. The cold was intense, and the altitude was beginning to affect some of the trekkers. I made sure to drink plenty of water and get enough rest. That night, the mountain air felt thinner, but it was the perfect preparation for the long climb ahead. I focused on mentally preparing myself, knowing that the next day would be one of the most challenging of the trek.
Day 3: Bali Pass Base Camp to Bali Pass Summit – Conquering the Highest Point
Day 3 was the day I had been waiting for—the Bali Pass Summit. We began our hike before dawn, knowing that we’d be facing a strenuous climb. The trail to the summit was covered in snow and ice, which made the terrain challenging but also thrilling. As we trekked higher, I started to feel the altitude, and my breath became more labored. The air was thinner, but every step felt like it brought me closer to something incredible.
With every step, the altitude was affecting my breathing. Despite how exhausting the climb seemed, I kept telling myself to go slowly. My guide kept me motivated, and we stopped often to rest, drink water, and snack. The higher we went, the more I felt the physical strain. The snowfields and ice-covered ridges made the ascent both beautiful and treacherous. However, I continued to focus on the objective: the peak. My trekking poles became my best friend, helping me maintain balance on the slippery sections.
Finally, after several hours of pushing through snowfields and rocky paths, we reached the Bali Pass Summit (at 4,500 meters). It was impossible to describe the sensation of being on top of the globe. I had made it! Looking out over the Swargarohini and Bandarpunch peaks, I couldn’t believe how far I had come. The views from the summit were beyond words—so vast, so wild. The world seemed so small beneath me, and for a few moments, I felt on top of it all.
It was a humbling experience, and I allowed myself to savor the accomplishment before beginning the descent. As tiring as the climb had been, the sense of victory at the summit was something I will cherish forever.
Day 4: Bali Pass Summit to Ruinsara Lake – The Descent and Its Beauty
Descending from the summit wasn’t as easy as I expected. The path was steep, rocky, and slippery in places, and I had to pay close attention to my footing. But as I descended, the landscape shifted from snow-covered ridges to alpine meadows. The sharp contrast between the snow and the warmer green fields was awe-inspiring. I was amazed at how quickly the environment transformed from a high-altitude wilderness to lush, temperate surroundings.
As we descended further, we passed several stunning alpine lakes and meadows dotted with wildflowers. The descent was easier on my lungs, but the steepness of the path made it challenging on my knees. We took our time, enjoying the beauty and the peaceful atmosphere that came with being far from civilization. The trail was well-marked, but there were still sections where we had to scramble, which added to the sense of adventure.
After about 5-6 hours of hiking, we finally reached Ruinsara Lake, a beautiful, serene spot nestled at an altitude of 3,500 meters. The lake’s crystal-clear waters were surrounded by alpine meadows, and the view of the nearby peaks was stunning. I sat by the lake for a while, taking it all in. The peaceful atmosphere after such a physically demanding day was incredibly rewarding.
At camp, I reflected on how far we’d come. Ruinsara Lake felt like a sanctuary—a place where you could rest, rejuvenate, and truly connect with nature. The area was quiet, and the only sounds were the calls of birds and the wind rustling through the trees. This stop allowed me to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty of the trek, and it was a much-needed rest before tackling the final leg of the journey.
Day 5: Ruinsara Lake to Osla – Walking Through Villages and Culture
The next morning, we began our descent to Osla, a picturesque village at around 2,500 meters. This was one of my favorite parts of the trek because we were not just immersed in nature but also in the local culture. As we walked through the dense forests, I noticed small clusters of villagers going about their daily tasks. The area was still quite remote, but the sense of community was evident. The simplicity of their lifestyle was a reminder of how different life can be in these remote mountain regions.
The walk was mostly downhill, and I could feel the relief in my legs as the strain from the previous days started to ease. Osla is a small village, known for its traditional wooden houses and terraced fields. It felt like a different world—a place where time slowed down. The villagers were incredibly welcoming, and I had the chance to interact with them, hear their stories, and learn about their way of life. It was a stark contrast to the wilderness we’d just experienced, and it brought a new dimension to the trek.
One of the highlights in Osla was visiting an ancient temple dedicated to the local deities. The intricate wooden carvings and the peaceful vibe of the place added a spiritual touch to my trek. We spent the night in a basic guesthouse, where the food was simple but nourishing, and I was grateful for the warmth and comfort.
Day 6: Osla to Sankri – The Final Stretch Back
The last portion of the Bali Pass Trek was completed on day six. The 20-kilometer walk from Osla back to Sankri was mostly downhill, and we were all in high spirits knowing that we were nearing the end of this incredible adventure. We retraced the same path we’d come from, passing through the dense forests and villages, and soon we arrived back in Sankri.
I couldn’t help but think back on the amazing adventure as I made my last steps on the route. The Bali Pass Trek had pushed me physically, mentally, and emotionally, but it had also given me the chance to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas and the warmth of its people. The challenges I faced were well worth the rewards, and I returned home with memories I will carry forever.
This trek was an experience that not only tested my limits but also gave me the opportunity to truly immerse myself in the wonders of the Himalayas. If you’re considering the Bali Pass Trek, I can’t recommend it enough—it’s an adventure that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Conclusion
The Bali Pass Trek was nothing short of transformative. From the moment we left Sankri to the final steps back in the village, each day presented new challenges, but it also offered new beauty and new lessons. The trek takes you through a diverse landscape—forests, meadows, lakes, and snow-covered ridges—each section more breathtaking than the last. And the best part? The camaraderie among fellow trekkers and the hospitality of the local communities make the experience even more rewarding.
If you’re looking for a challenge, a deep connection with nature, and an opportunity to experience the Himalayan culture, then Bali Pass is definitely worth considering. It’s a trek that will test your endurance and provide you with memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, The Searching Souls provides an exceptional trekking experience on Bali Pass Trek. Their guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about the region, making every step of the journey enjoyable and safe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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How difficult is the Bali Pass Trek? The Bali Pass Trek is considered challenging, particularly because of its high altitude and the physical demand of ascending and descending steep slopes. Prior trekking experience and a high degree of fitness are prerequisites.
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Which time of year is ideal for the Bali Pass Trek? The spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) seasons are the ideal times of year to hike Bali Pass.
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Does this trek require that I hire a guide? Although it is feasible to hike alone, hiring a guide is strongly advised. The trek is in a remote region, and a guide ensures safety, local knowledge, and a more immersive experience.
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What gear do I need for the Bali Pass Trek? Essential gear includes sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, a good-quality sleeping bag, warm layers (including thermal wear), a waterproof jacket, and sunscreen. It’s critical to be ready for quickly shifting weather patterns.
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Is it safe to trek Bali Pass? Yes, the Bali Pass Trek is generally safe, but it does require caution due to its altitude and technical sections. Trekking with an experienced guide and proper preparation reduces risks significantly.
