Bali Pass Trek 2025 - Cost, Itinerary & Details

Transportation
Transit Included
Maximum Altitude
16,240ft
Accomodation
Hotel, Campsite
Meals
All Meals (Veg.)
Tour type
Trek
Minimum Age
16
Maximum Age
60
Destinations
Uttarakhand
Trip Type
Trekking
Difficulty
Hard
Trip Tag
Bali Pass Trek, snow trek, trek, trekking, winter trek

Overview

Region: Uttarakhand (Garhwal Himalayas)
Maximum Altitude: 16,200 ft (4,950 m)
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Duration: 7–8 days
Trek Distance: ~50–60 km
Base Camp: Sankri
Best Season: May–June, September–October

About the Trek

The Bali Pass Trek is a challenging high-altitude crossing in Uttarakhand that connects Har Ki Dun with Yamunotri. It climbs to 16,200 ft and spans approximately 50–60 km over 7–8 days, making it suitable only for experienced trekkers. Starting from Sankri, the trail moves through forests and villages, reaches the serene Ruinsara Tal, then climbs to sweeping views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kala Nag. Finally, it descends to the Yamunotri temple. Steep ascents and rocky terrain demand strong fitness, while May–June and September–October offer the best trekking window.

Highlights

This trek offers the ultimate crossover. Specifically, it links the scenic Har Ki Dun and Yamunotri valleys.
Unparalleled panoramic views await you. Indeed, you will see giants like Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch from the summit.
Trek beside the stunning Ruinsara Tal lake. Furthermore, this pristine alpine area provides a perfect campsite.
The challenging descent marks a spiritual finale. Thus, you visit the revered Yamunotri Dham temple.

Day 01 :

Dehradun to Sankri (6,400 ft)

Start and Logistics

The Bali Pass trek begins early in Dehradun. Specifically, trekkers must arrive by 6:30 a.m. The long drive is to Sankri, our base camp. The scenic journey covers 220 km. Consequently, the travel time is 8 to 9 hours. We will make a convenient lunch stop en route.

Sankri Arrival and Stay

Sankri is a lively village. Furthermore, it sits within the Uttarkashi Govind Wildlife Sanctuary. Upon arrival, you'll check into a pre-booked hotel. Afterward, spend free time exploring the charming, bustling market.

Evening & Connectivity

Note that mobile connectivity is quite limited here. Occasional BSNL and Vodafone signals appear. Therefore, enjoy the natural beauty and the spectacular sunset over the Himalayan peaks. Dinner and your overnight stay are comfortably at the hotel.

Day 02 :

Sankri to Seema/Osla (8,500 ft)

Morning Logistics

We begin Day 2 immediately after breakfast. First, we take a short drive from Sankri. This journey covers 16 km to Gangarh Village. Consequently, the motorable road ends here. The subsequent trek covers 4 km. Therefore, the total travel time is 3 to 4 hours.

Trekking Trail

The trek starts in the valley. Specifically, it follows the Rupin River. Initially, the path descends from Taluka village. However, the route soon climbs through dense forests. Look for chestnut, willow, and conifer trees. Furthermore, the landscape is rich with wild orchids and small waterfalls.

Village Highlights

We arrive at the charming Osla/Seema village by late afternoon. Osla is known for its beautiful architecture. Indeed, it features the intricately carved Duryodhana temple. Trekkers also pass the smaller Taluka and Dhatmeer villages. Overnight stay will be at a homestay or campsite in Osla/Seema.

Day 03 :

Seema/Osla to Devsu Thatch (9,795 ft)

Morning Start and Initial Route

Start your day and head out early on the trail. First, cross a main bridge. Next, look right for a wooden bridge over the Supin River. The initial path is mostly flat. However, it soon begins to ascend.

Key Landmarks

You will quickly reach Seema, about a 30-minute walk. Specifically, Seema features Forest and GMVN guest houses plus small dhabas. Cross the Supin River once more. Afterward, follow the trail down toward Ruinsara Gorge. Here you'll see a stream and a landslide-prone area.

Arrival at Devsu Thatch

As you near Ruinsara Park, you'll encounter large boulders. This offers a final view of Osla village. Then, continue for another 30 minutes to the Devsu Thach meadows. These meadows are 2 kilometers long and often bloom. From here, you can see the famous "Valley of Gods" and "Har Ki Dun Valley" to the left. Set up your tents at the edge of the meadows for a peaceful night.

Day 04 :

Devsu Thatch to Ruinsara Tal/Lake (11,483 ft)

Trail Descent and Ascent

The day begins with a steep descent. First, the trail drops to the Ruinsara River. Then, you cross a wooden bridge after about 20 minutes. Proceed into the Ruinsara Gorge. The path alternates between level sections and gentle ascents.

Navigation and Challenges

You'll navigate over pasturelands and large boulders. However, be cautious of landslide-prone areas here. Next, you'll pass a waterfall visible on the left. The path then descends and immediately climbs again. This section crosses scree and snow-covered meadows.

Reaching Ruinsara Tal

You reach the Untigad campsite in roughly 30 minutes. Specifically, this requires crossing the Ruinsara River once more. Afterward, continue toward the main Ruinsara Lake. This final stretch takes 45 minutes through a birch forest and boulder zone. Finally, you reach the lake, surrounded by meadows, and perfectly ideal for camping.

Day 05 :

Ruinsara Tal/Lake to Odari (13,123 ft)

Challenging Route Start

Start your day early and continue on the trail. Notably, today’s trek is challenging and requires caution. It involves exciting activities like river crossings and rock jumping. Furthermore, you will wander over old avalanche areas.

Ascent to Snowline

The majestic Swargarohini ranges are now visible. Soon, you will see the first snow patches on the meadows ahead. When you hit the snow line, the climb becomes steep and slick. Therefore, proceed carefully up the first hill in the valley.

Arrival at Odari Campsite

Behind you, a snow ridge appears. This ridge features the Odari ice fields. Odari is historically a rock cave used by shepherds during the monsoon. Finally, reach the designated ice area campsite. This spot offers spectacular views of the magnificent Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch peaks.

Day 06 :

Odari to Bali Col Camp (15,100 ft)

The Challenging Ascent

Today's trek covers 5 kilometers to Bali Col Camp. The camp sits at 15,100 feet. First, we start southwest along a mountain ridge. The trail quickly becomes more challenging. Specifically, it is steepest near the Pass area. The ascent features a demanding 60° incline.

Altitude and Safety

Staying hydrated is crucial at this altitude. Therefore, carry at least 2 liters of water. Note that there are no water sources along the route. Active movement prevents Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Furthermore, expect very cold temperatures at the Col.

Summit Preparation

Follow your trek leader’s acclimatization advice carefully. Finally, aim to sleep early at the high-altitude camp. This ensures you are ready for the crucial summit attempt tomorrow.

Day 07 :

Bali Col Camp to Lower Dhamni VIA Bali Pass

Summit Push and Views

Today marks the most challenging trek day. We begin early for the summit push. First, navigate the steep, snow-covered trail. We reach the Pass at 16,200 ft. Consequently, you are rewarded with stunning views of Himalayan peaks.

Technical Descent

The route immediately descends to Lower Dhamni at 11,100 ft. This descent is steep and highly technical. Therefore, exercise extreme caution on narrow, loose paths. Stay very close to your trek leader and group. The trail remains unmarked from Upper to Lower Dhamni.

Final Stretch

The trail flattens out briefly. Finally, it passes through a forest for the last 2 km. We reach the Lower Dhamni campsite. Rest well; this has been the most demanding day.

Day 08 :

Lower Dhamni to Dehradun

Descent to Yamunotri

Today marks the final day of the trek. Initially, the descent to the temple is relatively easy. The path is a cement-paved trail. It features more downhill sections. It takes 1 to 2 hours to reach the Yamunotri Temple.

Pilgrim Route and Transfer

After visiting the sacred shrine, we follow the pilgrim route. This 5 km trek leads to Janki Chatti. Next, transportation is arranged from Janki Chatti to Sankri.

Final Drive to Dehradun

We then begin the drive from Sankri to Dehradun. Therefore, we will start this journey early. The final drive takes around 6 to 7 hours. Consequently, you will reach Dehradun by late afternoon. Your incredible, offbeat trek officially concludes here.

FAQs

Expand all

What is the difficulty level of the Bali Pass Trek?

This trek is rated as Difficult. Therefore, it is not suitable for beginners. Prior high-altitude trekking experience is mandatory.

What kind of fitness level is needed?

Indeed, excellent physical and mental endurance is essential. Thus, you should train intensively beforehand.

What is the best time to do the Bali Pass Trek?

The ideal season is from May to June. Alternatively, September through October is also excellent.

Will I get cell service on the trek?

No, mobile connectivity is extremely limited. However, occasional BSNL/Vodafone signals may appear briefly.

Are porters available for personal bags?

No, mules/porters only carry the central group luggage. Therefore, trekkers must carry their own personal bags.

Is insurance included in the package?

No, travel or trekking insurance is mandatory. However, it must be purchased by the trekker separately.

What is the maximum altitude of the pass?

The Bali Pass summit reaches 16,200 ft (4,950 m). Consequently, proper acclimatization is vital.

Where does the trek officially start and end?

Initially, the road journey begins in Dehradun. However, the trek itself starts near Sankri village.

Trip Facts