If you're looking for a trek that blends raw adventure, ancient trails, mythical landscapes, and heart-thumping passes, look no further than the Bali pass trek. Nestled deep in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, this trek is a thrilling journey that takes you through sacred villages, alpine meadows, glacier-carved valleys, and finally over the high-altitude Bali Pass (16,207 ft). My adventure on this trail wasn’t just about reaching the top—it was about walking through time, through terrain that echoed stories of the Mahabharata and ancient pilgrim routes.
The trek begins from Sankri, a serene village and popular base for many treks in Uttarkashi. I chose to trek with Himalaya Shelter, a trusted name in the trekking world. Known for their expert local knowledge, safety-first approach, and passionate guides, they added depth and comfort to an otherwise intense trek.
The first leg took us to Taluka and then Seema, winding through dense pine and deodar forests, crossing wooden bridges, and walking beside the Supin River. The sounds of the gushing river and birdsong became our companions. At Osla, an ancient village believed to be linked to the Mahabharata, we met the kind-hearted villagers and saw traditional architecture that felt frozen in time.
From Seema, the trail grew wilder. We reached the ethereal Ruinsara Tal, a glacial lake surrounded by towering peaks and blooming meadows. The reflection of Swargarohini in its calm waters is a sight forever etched in my mind. This place had a mystical calm, and many trekkers believe it to be one of the most spiritual spots in the Garhwal Himalayas.
This is where the terrain starts testing you. The trail from Ruinsara to Odari and then up to Bali Base Camp becomes more rugged, with steep ascents, moraine paths, and snowfields. We camped under star-studded skies, the cold wind reminding us of the altitude we were now braving.
On summit day, we began before dawn, equipped with microspikes and a strong will. The climb to Bali Pass is steep and filled with scree, but as I reached the top, gasping for breath, a wave of awe swept over me. The panoramic views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak from the top were unlike anything I had ever seen. It was a moment of triumph, clarity, and reverence.
The descent toward Yamunotri was steep and snowy, leading us into the sacred pilgrimage valley. It felt surreal to end a wild expedition in a place of worship, where pilgrims walked the same trails seeking blessings rather than views.
The best time to do the Bali Pass Trek is from mid-May to early July and again from September to mid-October. During these windows, the trails are clear of heavy snow, skies are generally stable, and the high-altitude meadows bloom with Himalayan flora.
The Bali pass trek is not for the faint-hearted—it's a high-altitude crossover trek meant for experienced trekkers who crave raw, untamed wilderness. But it’s also a deeply spiritual and cultural experience, passing through ancient villages and sacred sites before culminating in the lap of majestic peaks.
And with expert support from Himalaya Shelter, the best trekking company in Uttarakhand, every logistical challenge melts away, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the journey