Amandeep’s Solo Kheerganga Trek with Thrillophilia
“Every step you take in the mountains leaves you with a story to tell.”
This thought stayed with me as I stood at the base of Barshaini, staring up at the trail that marked the beginning of my journey to Kheerganga. A solo trek had been on my bucket list for years, and booking through Thrillophilia made it feel like the stars had finally aligned.
Kheerganga wasn’t new to me. I’d heard stories about its stunning landscapes, sacred hot springs, and the tranquillity that awaited at the top. But standing there, with the Parvati River roaring beside me and the scent of pine in the air, I realized no amount of stories could capture the magic of actually being there.
Whispers of the Valley
The trek began with a sense of excitement and curiosity. Our guide, Vicky, set the pace with a cheerful demeanour that made the group feel at ease. Though I was travelling alone, the chatter of fellow trekkers and the sounds of nature made it anything but lonely.
The trail weaved through thick forests of deodar and oak, their canopies forming a natural umbrella. The air smelled of damp earth, and the occasional trill of a bird broke the quiet. Every now and then, I’d stop to admire the wildflowers dotting the path or watch playful langurs swing from tree to tree.
The highlight of the day was Rudra Nag, a waterfall that seemed straight out of a fairytale. Its snake-like shape gave it an air of mystique, and as Vicky explained its mythological significance, I felt a deep respect for the land. Nearby, I noticed a small shrine where trekkers paused to offer their prayers.
By the time we reached Rudranaag, our campsite for the night, the sun was beginning to set. Dinner was simple—steaming hot dal, rice, and chapatis—but it tasted like the best meal I’d had in ages. Sitting under a sky scattered with stars, surrounded by the sound of the river, I felt a sense of peace that’s hard to put into words.
The Magic of Kheerganga
The next morning, the trail took a different turn—both literally and figuratively. The dense forest gave way to open meadows, offering sweeping views of the Parvati Valley. The path was steeper, and the air grew colder, but the anticipation of reaching Kheerganga kept me going.
When we finally arrived, it felt like stepping into another world. The Parvati Kund, the natural hot spring, was the first thing that caught my eye. Exhausted from the climb, I couldn’t wait to dip into its warm waters. It was like sinking into pure bliss, the heat soothing every muscle and washing away all the fatigue.
Nearby, a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva stood in quiet reverence. A few locals and fellow trekkers sat around it, their faces serene. I joined them for a while, listening to stories about the valley’s spiritual significance.
An elderly man selling chai shared how the waters of the Parvati Kund were believed to have healing properties, drawing pilgrims from far and wide.
Later, I explored the small food stalls set up by locals. A warm plate of Maggi and a cup of chai never tasted better. The people here, with their genuine smiles and humble hospitality, added a layer of warmth to the cold mountain air.
The Lessons
Heading back to Barshaini, I felt a mix of emotions—gratitude for the experience, awe at the beauty of the mountains, and a hint of sadness that it was over. Along the way, we stopped at a tiny chai stall run by a couple who had lived in the valley all their lives. Their stories about braving harsh winters and their unwavering love for the mountains were a gentle reminder of the resilience and simplicity that define life here.
As the trail levelled out and the sound of the Parvati River grew louder, I realized how much this trek had taught me. It wasn’t just about reaching the destination or ticking off a bucket list item—it was about the journey, the people, and the small moments that made it unforgettable.
A Journey Beyond Words
Descending from Kheerganga, I couldn’t help but replay the past two days in my mind. Each step down felt like leaving behind a part of me, one that had been cradled by the mountains and healed by the stillness of the valley.
The journey back was quieter, not because the trail had changed, but because something in me had. The roaring Parvati River felt less like an untamed force and more like a soothing melody. The forests, with their towering trees and wildflowers, seemed less imposing and more like old friends waving goodbye.
As I reached Barshaini, there was a bittersweetness to it all. The mountains had offered me something I hadn’t even realized I was searching for—a sense of clarity and calm. Even now, as I think back to those days in the Parvati Valley, I can feel the crisp mountain air on my skin, hear the rush of the river, and see the endless expanse of stars above.
Kheerganga isn’t just a place—it’s an experience, a memory, and a feeling that stays with you long after you’ve left. And for that, I’ll always be grateful.
Read more: Thrillophilia Himachal Trek Reviews