If you are looking for a trek that is untouched, peaceful, and full of raw Himalayan beauty, the Yulla Kanda Trek is the perfect choice. Nestled in the heart of Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh, this trek is still relatively unknown, which makes it a paradise for those who love offbeat trails. At an altitude of around 3,895 meters (12,779 ft), Yulla Kanda is home to one of the highest natural lakes in Himachal. Surrounded by snow-clad mountains and vast meadows, the lake is dedicated to Lord Krishna, making it a spiritual as well as a scenic destination.
Why Yulla Kanda Trek is Special
- Pristine Beauty – Unlike other crowded Himalayan treks, Yulla Kanda remains untouched, giving trekkers a chance to connect deeply with nature.
- Spiritual Significance – The Yulla Kanda Lake is believed to be sacred to Lord Krishna, attracting pilgrims and trekkers alike.
- Rare Meadows – The trek opens up to vast green meadows that look breathtaking during the summer and monsoon months.
- Cultural Experience – Trekking through Kinnaur villages lets you experience the unique culture, traditions, and hospitality of the locals.
Yulla Kanda Trek Route
The trek usually starts from Yulla Village in Kinnaur. Here’s the general route followed by trekkers:
- Base Village: Yulla (near Reckong Peo, Kinnaur)
- Trek Distance: Around 5–6 km one way
- Duration: 1–2 days
- Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (suitable for beginners with good fitness)
- Highest Point: Yulla Kanda Lake (3,895 m)
The trail takes you through apple orchards, dense forests, and open meadows, finally leading to the breathtaking Yulla Kanda Lake, which remains the highlight of the trek.
Best Time to Visit Yulla Kanda
- May to October is the best season.
- During July and August, the meadows bloom with wildflowers, giving the area a colorful look.
- Avoid the peak winter months (November to March) as the trail is covered in heavy snow and becomes difficult to access.
How to Reach Yulla Kanda
- By Road –
- Reach Reckong Peo (the district headquarters of Kinnaur) by bus or taxi from Shimla.
- From Reckong Peo, head to Yulla Village, the base point of the trek.
- By Train –
- The nearest railway station is Shimla, connected by the famous Kalka-Shimla toy train.
- From Shimla, take a bus or cab to Reckong Peo.
- By Air –
- The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti), around 250 km away.
- From there, travel by road to Reckong Peo and then Yulla.
What to Expect on the Trek
- Yulla Kanda Lake – A crystal-clear high-altitude lake reflecting the surrounding peaks.
- 360-Degree Views – On clear days, trekkers can witness majestic Himalayan ranges, including parts of Kinnaur Kailash.
- Camping Experience – The meadows near the lake are ideal for setting up tents under a starlit sky.
- Local Legends – Villagers believe that Lord Krishna spent time here, which adds a mythological charm to the trek.
Trekking Essentials
If you’re planning the Yulla Kanda Trek, here’s what you should carry:
- Sturdy trekking shoes
- Warm clothes (even in summer, nights can be cold)
- Rain gear (especially in monsoon)
- Water bottles and snacks
- Camping gear (if staying overnight)
- First-aid kit
- Power bank & torch
Tips for Trekkers
- Hire a local guide from Yulla Village for safety and better knowledge of the trail.
- Always respect the sacredness of the lake; do not litter or pollute.
- Acclimatize properly before starting the trek if you’re coming from lower altitudes.
- Carry enough cash, as ATMs may not be easily available in the region.
Yulla Kanda Trek Itinerary (2 Days)
Day 1:
- Reach Yulla Village from Reckong Peo.
- Start trek to Yulla Kanda Lake.
- Set up camp near the lake.
Day 2:
- Sunrise view at the lake.
- Explore meadows and surrounding peaks.
- Trek back to Yulla Village.
- Return to Reckong Peo.
Final Thoughts
The Yulla Kanda Trek is truly a hidden treasure of Himachal Pradesh. With its combination of natural beauty, spiritual charm, and cultural richness, it deserves to be on every trekker’s bucket list. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone looking for peace in the lap of nature, Yulla Kanda will leave you mesmerized.
If you want to escape the crowds of popular treks like Triund or Hampta Pass, Yulla Kanda is the perfect offbeat destination waiting to be explored.
FAQs
Q1. Is Yulla Kanda Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trek is relatively short and moderate, making it perfect for first-time trekkers with basic fitness.
Q2. Do I need a permit for the Yulla Kanda Trek?
Currently, no special permits are required. However, it’s always good to check with locals before planning.
Q3. Can I complete the trek in one day?
Yes, experienced trekkers can do it in a day, but staying overnight near the lake is highly recommended.
Q4. What makes Yulla Kanda different from other treks in Himachal?
It’s less commercialized, offers untouched natural beauty, and has deep spiritual significance.
Q5. Are there homestays available in Yulla Village?
Yes, you can find small guesthouses and homestays in Yulla and Reckong Peo for a comfortable stay.