Will there be electricity at the campsites on the Bijli Mahadev trek?

The only place you’ll find a plug to charge your phone or camera batteries will be at Indiahikes Manali Jungle Line Campus before starting the Bijli Mahadev trek. Therefore, use your electronic equipment wisely. Fully charge your batteries before leaving your hotel, and use your electronic equipment minimally.

Bijli Mahadev Trek

Q: Who is the Bijli Mahadev trek suitable for?

This Bijli Mahadev trek is suitable for all age groups. This is because the terrain of the trek is relatively gentle and well-maintained, making it accessible for everyone. The trails are not overly strenuous, allowing everyone to enjoy the trek.

A prettier route to the famous Bijli Mahadev Temple near Manali

Need help with planning your winter trek? Speak to our expert Trek Advisors

If you are planning for a Winter Trek, our expert team of Trek Advisors can help you choose the right one. So if you have questions like, "Can I do this trek?" or "Will I get to see snow in this trek?", please get in touch.Talk to our Trek Advisors

TREK DIFFICULTY

Easy

TREK DURATION

3 days

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Highest Altitude

8120 ft

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AGE LIMIT

7 to 62 years

TOTAL TREK DISTANCE

10 kms

BASECAMP

Manali (Sarsai)

ACCOMMODATION TYPE

Tents

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PICKUP POINT

Beas Bridge, Manali

Why go on the Bijli Mahadev Trek?

Bijli Mahadev is not a new trek in our country. It is, in fact, one of the most popular and oldest treks. It is a trek that takes you to the Shiva temple located on Mathan Hill in Kullu. The popular route to Bijli Mahadev starts from Chansari village and is a short 3 km walk on a well established trail to the top. The whole trek can be completed in half a day.

What makes this trek stand out is that, at Indiahikes, we have explored an alternative route to the trek. It’s a route that is rarely traversed by anyone. It's a route that takes you through the remote villages and the best forests of Kullu Valley, letting you experience the charm of this historical place without the crowds.

The main highlight of this trek is the magical pine and deodar forest trails. On most of our treks, the forest trails are narrow, forcing you to stick to them. On the Bijli Mahadev trek, the trail is wide enough for you to explore the length and breadth of these forests. This wide trail in the forest allows you to camp amidst the tall pine and deodar trees, something that you rarely get to experience on our Himachal treks.

Trekker Reviews

Priyadarshini Sethia

Age 24, Psychologist Bangalore

This trek also taught me a valuable lesson - I don't need to do difficult things to appreciate nature's beauty.

I recently completed the Bijli Mahadeva trek with Indiahikes and was extremely surprised by how wholesome it was. It offered way more than what you promised on your website! The trek was a peaceful an...Read More

Jaideep Girish Koppikar

Age 56, Civil Engineer, Worley Services India Pvt Ltd, Mumbai

I feel 5 years younger, I thank myself for going on this trek!

No words i write can compare to what i experienced. It all started with a day well spent at the Indiahikes camp site. For someone who has seen mangoes dangling from trees, to see varied colours of red...Read More

Madhuri Nanda

Director, South Asia- Rainforest Alliance

Provided me and my children a great time to bond

Being in my 40s, I realize the importance of health and fitness for a good quality life. However, sometimes, we get overwhelmed with ideas of ambitious targets and miss out on the small steps that we ...Read More

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Kaarika Das

PhD Candidate, NIEPA

An excellent choice for first-time trekkers eager to get a sense of the trekking experience

It was my first time at IndiaHikes, and I absolutely loved the trek experience. Really appreciate the values that India Hikes embody - caring about nature, sustainability and walking the talk on both!...Read More

Jitendra Satiya and Shilpa Satiya

Partner at JK Graphics LLP

The trek was well planned. We enjoyed exploring the forest

This trek is a good experience for first timers with all age group 14 to 60 plus. The trail was not too long with proper breaks and well planned. We had lot of free time after the trek to enjoy the f...Read More

zoi6 x5lenntwqey screenshot2024 07 01at10

Amardeep Kaur

Works at Delhi Public School

An excellent family trek. Kids and senior members can go too.

Going for a trek was my childhood dream. I got to know about Indiahikes from my friend. I was little bit confused where to go for trekking as it was my first trek. An Indiahikes member suggested me th...Read More

Priyadarshini Sethia

Age 24, Psychologist Bangalore

This trek also taught me a valuable lesson - I don't need to do difficult things to appreciate nature's beauty.

Jaideep Girish Koppikar

Age 56, Civil Engineer, Worley Services India Pvt Ltd, Mumbai

I feel 5 years younger, I thank myself for going on this trek!

Madhuri Nanda

Director, South Asia- Rainforest Alliance

Provided me and my children a great time to bond

Kaarika Das

PhD Candidate, NIEPA

An excellent choice for first-time trekkers eager to get a sense of the trekking experience

Bijli Mahadev - Complete Trek Information

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.

Use this section to learn about the Bijli Mahadev Trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

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Arrive at the Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus at Manali. Drive to Kot Village, trek to Borsu Forest campsite

Water sources: No water sources on the way. Carry 2 liters of water from the base.

The Indiahikes Manali Campus is about 15km away from Manali, located in a place called Sarsai. The campus is nestled amidst dreamy apple orchards near Manali.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at our campus. Hop into the vehicle and drive towards Kot village, which is about 40 km away. The journey will take approximately 1.5 hours.

As you drive to Kullu, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Beas River flowing vigorously down the valley. The road to Kullu is mostly downhill, winding through the mountains with apple trees lining both sides. The scenery constantly changes with each turn.

Once you reach Kullu, the next leg of the journey involves a steep climb to Kot village, featuring numerous hairpin bends along the way. As you go further up the valley, you get to see a bird's-eye view of the entire Kullu valley. Just 4 km before Kot village, you start seeing the peaks of the Pir Panjal range.

The Indiahikes Manali Campus is about 15km away from Manali, located in a place called Sarsai. The campus is nestled amidst dreamy apple orchards near Manali.

Upon arriving at Kot village, the trek officially kicks off. Here, you get a glimpse of what a remote Himalayan village looks like.

At the village entrance, you will find the Mahuti Devta temple, marking the starting point of the trail. Initially, it's an ascent of about 350 m, leading to a flat trail with a few houses above. Keep following the trail, and after covering 500 m, you'll encounter another gradual ascent.

Continue for another kilometre, and you'll find yourself amidst Borsu Forest, surrounded by a wide trail and open grounds on both sides.
Borsu Forest is a treat for trekkers. It's one of the most picturesque forest settings you will ever experience, and the forest extends for a significant distance, providing a picturesque camping spot for the day. Set up your camp and enjoy the serene surroundings amidst nature.

Note: To make your travel easier, we will arrange the pick-up from Beas Bridge, Manali at 6 am. It will cost Rs 1,000 per vehicle (5-6 seaters) and has to be shared by trekkers.

Day 2

Trek from Borsu Forest campsite to Shildhar. Sunset trek to Bijli Mahadev, and back to Shildhar

Trek Distance: 6 km | Trek Duration: 3 hrs

Today's trek starts with a beautiful trail surrounded by deodar, and pine trees. Trek through the forest for about 2.5 kilometers until the trail through the trees concludes.
At this point, a semi-forest trail begins, leading you through a mud road flanked by trees on both sides. This road is rarely used by vehicles, except during festivals.

As you walk further, you'll eventually reach a place called Shildhar, which will be your camping spot for the day. Take a break, drop your bags, have lunch, and explore the area.

In the evening, take a short stroll to visit the Bijli Mahadev Temple, located 1.5 kilometers from the campsite. Trekking to the top in the evening allows you to experience the beautiful sunset views from the summit, minus the crowd.

This temple is renowned for its legendary trek around Manali. The Shiva Lingam inside the temple is believed to attract divine blessings in the form of lightning. According to the legend, after every lightning episode, the priest of the temple restores the Shiva Lingam inside using butter and sattoo, as it shatters into pieces each time. The temple is considered a protector of the valley, enduring the impact of every thunderstorm.

After your visit, return to the campsite and call it a day.

Day 1 Day 3

Trek from Shildhar to Karate. Drive back to Manali via Jungle Line Campus

Trek Distance: 2 km | Trek Duration: 2 hrs | Drive Distance: 38 km | Drive Duration: 1.5hrs

This is the last day of the trek. Start from Shildhar after breakfast at the campsite.
It's a short 2 km descent to the Karate village through the popular route. Drive back to Manali on the same day via Jungle Line Campus.

Day 2

Bijli Mahadev in Autumn (September to mid-November)

icon Daytime temperatures range from 14°C to 18°C, and at night it can drop to 8°C to 10°C.

icon Presence of Snow: There is no snow during the autumn season.

icon Number of warm layers: 2 layers

Autumn is a great time to trek to Bijli Mahadev. People often associate autumn with fallen leaves and orange hues. However, it is still very green in autumn. It is only when November comes, the landscape starts turning orange.

This is the perfect time for photography because the landscapes are clean and the skies are clear. Villagers are busy getting ready for winter, storing grass for their cattle, and gathering wood, giving trekkers a glimpse into the locals' daily lives.

For those who love photography and want to see the mountains clearly, post-monsoon is the best time. The clean air and vibrant forest make it a truly scenic experience.

Bijli Mahadev in Winter (mid-November to February)

icon Daytime temperatures range from 12°C to 16°C, and at night, they can drop to 2°C to 3°C.

icon Presence of Snow: You may get snow in January and February

icon Number of warm layers: 4 layers

During the winter season, the Bijli Mahadev trek offers a peaceful and calm atmosphere. While the trail itself doesn't usually have snow, the surrounding mountains, such as the Pir Panjal range, may have a light dusting of snow, creating a beautiful winter scene.

The deodar forests remain green, providing a striking contrast against the snowy peaks. The winter air is refreshing and cool, making it a pleasant trek without the challenges of snow trekking.

This trek is perfect for those who want to experience winter trekking without facing harsh conditions. The crisp air and stunning snowy views make it a magical experience.

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Bijli Mahadev in Spring (March to April)

icon Daytime temperatures range from 14°C to 18°C, and at night, it drops to 7°C to 10°C

icon Presence of snow: You might find snow during March but it will have melted by April

icon No. of warm layers required: 3-4 layers

Spring is a great time to explore the Bijli Mahadev trek. The trail goes through dense deodar forests, which are always lush green, but in spring, the forest feels alive and vibrant.

The distant snow-capped peaks of the Pir Panjal range provide stunning views. The forest is calm in spring, making it a peaceful trek.

The fresh green forests and clear views of snow-covered peaks make spring a magical time for this trek.

It’s perfect for beginners who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without extreme conditions.

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Bijli Mahadev in Summer (May to June)

icon During the day, the temperatures range from 20°C to 24°C, while at night, it cools down to 12°C to 16°C.

icon Presence of snow: You will not find snow on the trail

icon No. of warm layers required: 2-3 layers

In the summer, the trek is warm but pleasant, especially once you enter the dense deodar forest.

The shade from the towering trees keeps the trail cool, making it comfortable for walking even in the warmer months.

This season also allows trekkers to experience vibrant village life and get a glimpse of mountain life. The cool forest trail provides relief from the summer heat and is the best time to experience mountain village life in action.

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Bijli Mahadev in Monsoon (July to September)

icon Daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 22°C, with nighttime temperatures cooling to 12°C to 14°C.

icon Presence of snow: You will not find snow on the trail

icon No. of warm layers required: 2-3 layers (Will get colder if it rains)

During the monsoon months, the trail becomes a vibrant green paradise. The forest feels alive, and after the rains, everything is fresh and full of life.

However, the trail can be slippery and somewhat challenging due to the rain.

If you are fortunate, you might experience trekking under the clouds, with mist and fog adding a mystical touch to the surroundings. The deodar forests take on a magical appearance, and if the skies clear, you can still get great views of the Pir Panjal range.

The monsoon offers a unique trekking experience, with lush greenery, refreshing rains, and the chance to walk through misty, cloud-covered trails.

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Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus, Manali, is the base camp of the Bijli Mahadev trek. It is situated in Sarsai, a quaint hamlet, about 15 km from the main bustling center of Manali.

You must reach the Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus, Manali, by 7 AM on Day-1 of your trek.

You can choose to arrive at the campus by yourself.
Alternatively, Indiahikes arranges for transport to the Jungle Line Campus from Manali. Indiahikes vehicles will pick you up from Beas Bridge in Manali at 6 AM on Day 1 of your trek.

In either case, we recommend that you reach Manali by Day-0, which is one day before Day-1 on the itinerary. For example, if the Day 1 of your trek is 25th August, book your tickets to reach Manali by 24th August. This gives you a buffer to account for unexpected delays and also allows you to rest well before starting your trek.

Here is a detailed guide to help you plan your travel to Manali:

Manali is easily accessible by road from Delhi and Chandigarh. However, the stretch beyond Mandi on NH-3 is prone to frequent landslides, often leading to delays. Keep this in mind while planning your journey.

The easiest way to reach the Manali is to:

Fly to Delhi, take a direct bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Manali
Fly to Chandigarh, take a direct bus from Chandigarh to Manali.

Flight options to reach Manali:

Pro Tip: If the flights to Chandigarh are too costly, fly to Delhi and take the overnight bus to Manali. Flying to Delhi may be a lot cheaper than getting to Chandigarh. However, If you notice the difference in air ticket prices between Delhi and Chandigarh is less than Rs 1000, then book for Chandigarh. The rest and shorter travel time are worth the difference.

How to reach the Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus in Sarsai

From Manali-
Sarsai is 15 km from the main center of Manali on the Kullu-Naggar-Manali Road. From the Sarsai Bus Stand, it is just a 10-15 minute walk to the Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus.

By Auto or Private Cab: Fare ranges between Rs.500 to Rs.1000

From Delhi/Chandigarh-

Option 1: Get down at Kullu and take the Local Kullu-Manali Bus to Sarsai

Take any bus to Manali from Delhi / Chandigarh
Get down at Kullu Bus Stand instead of going all the way to Manali
Local Buses run regularly from Kullu to Manali via Sarsai. Take this bus and get down at Sarsai
From the Sarsai Bus Stand, it is just a 10-15 minute walk to the Indiahikes Campus

Option 2: Get down at 15-Mile and take a Cab to Sarsai

Take any bus to Manali from Delhi / Chandigarh
Get down at the 15 Mile Bus Stop instead of going all the way to Manali
Hire a cab for the 12 km journey to Indiahikes Jungle Line Campus

Secret Travel Tip: From the 15-Mile Bus Stand, a wooden bridge over the Beas River leads into the Batahar Bihal Forest. The Indiahikes Campus is just a 3-km scenic walk through these deodar forests and apple orchards. If you are traveling in September or October, you’ll see apple trees laden with fruit. Before you take this hike, stop by The Cafe House for carrot cakes and trout fish grills.

Given below is a list of all the gear you need for your Bijli Mahadev Trek:

If you don’t have certain items, you can rent high-quality gear like trekking shoes, backpacks, and jackets from the Crosstrek Rental Store by Indiahikes. It costs less than Rs 2000 for the entire trek. We highly recommend renting gear since it is both more affordable and environmentally friendly.

Additionally, you’ll notice a small medical kit in the list. While our trek leaders carry medical kits with 17 medicines including life-saving drugs, you must bring your personal medical kit as well. We are already equipped with BP machines, oximeters and canned oxygen, but your medical kit is for quick access to you, especially while travelling.

Most importantly, you must digitally upload and carry mandatory documents to get government permits for the trek - your ID card, medical certificate, and disclaimer certificate. Keep them in a plastic bag to keep them safe in your backpack. There are no printing or photocopy facilities at the basecamp.

Here is a list of everything you need for your trek.

Shoes and backpack

Trekking shoes with ankle support (Available on rent)
Backpack with rain cover (Available on rent)

Warm Layers and Clothes

Warm layers (Padded jackets available on rent)
- 3 layers if you're trekking in spring, summer and monsoon (1 woollen sweater, 1 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 4 layers if you're trekking in autumn (1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 5 layers if you're trekking in winter (1 pair of thermals, 1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
3 Collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)

Accessories

Sunglasses
Sun cap, preferably with flaps (Available for purchase)
Waterproof gloves (Available for purchase)
Waterproof socks (Highly recommended for trekking in snow. Available for purchase)
Balaclava
Woollen socks (2 pairs of Dry fit + 1 pair of Woollen)
Headlamp (Available on rent)
Trekking pole (Available on rent)
Rain jacket + pants / poncho (Rain-jacket is available on rent)

Toiletries:

Sunscreen
Moisturiser
Light towel
Lip balm or vaseline
Toilet paper (Wet wipes are strictly not allowed on our treks)
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)

Cutlery:

Steel lunch box, spoon and a coffee mug (Lunch box is available on rent)
Two water bottles or Hydration Pack (Water bottles are available on rent)

Once you run through this list, don't miss this ultimate guide on what gear to take on a trek. It contains tips on what gear to choose, where to get it from and how much to spend on it.

Our only tip: Keep your backpack light. Indiahikes practices low impact sustainable trekking in every aspect of the trek. Carrying your own personal backpack reduces your impact on the mountains by 20%. We expect all our trekkers to carry their own backpacks unless they have a justifiable reason not to.

PRO TIPS

Keep important documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet.

These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.
Disclaimer certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part is a personal medical record. The second part is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate
Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by Indiahikes – Download medical certificate

Note: Indiahikes has a panel of doctors who can help you with a medical certificate. They are available for online consultation. To get in touch with them, please write to trekmedicalcertificates@gmail.com. They will respond to you within 24 hours.

Consultation fee: Rs 300

Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader.

Dolo 650 (5 tablets): This is paracetamol. It helps tackle fever and mild pain
Avomine (4 tablets): Carry this especially if you are prone to motion sickness. Pop one-half hour before the start of your road journey.
Combiflam (5 tablets): Take a combiflam if you get a sudden twist of the leg or a muscle strain. It is a pain reliever. It also contains paracetamol.
Digene (4 tablets): Take it if you feel the food that you’ve taken is undigested. Alert your leader immediately. It could be a sign of AMS.
ORS (6 packs): Consume a pack of ORS water at least once a day, usually mid-day when you are in the middle of your trek. It replenishes essential salts lost while trekking. Tip: It also makes cold water easier to drink.
Knee Brace (optional): Carry this if you are prone to knee injury or have known issues of knee pain.

Our trek leaders carry a high altitude medical kit with them, which also consists of Life Saving Drugs. If there is an emergency, our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of the medicines listed here.

Pro Tip: We find that these medicines are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit.

We recommend walking/jogging/running as the best routine to get fit for any trek. It works on the same muscles you use while trekking—your calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. It also mimics your foot movement so you are better prepared for sudden twists and turns they may go through on uneven terrain.

It helps increase your stamina gradually if done consistently. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.

Fitness Target

To do the Bijli Mahadev trek comfortably, you must be able to walk, jog or run 5 km in under 50 minutes. This is the minimum recommended fitness level that you must aim for.

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Trekking is a sport that primarily uses your lungs, core, calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. Being fit will help you enjoy the trek and will keep you safe.

To reach any fitness target, there are two things you must work on:

Cardiovascular Endurance
Muscle strength

If you are not currently active, follow the below schedule to get trek fit in 6 weeks!

A 6-Week Plan To Help You Get Trek-Fit For The Bijli Mahadev Trek

Pro Tip: Warming up and cooling down before and after your workout is important. Do not miss that.

| Note: If you are not a regular runner, do not start running all of a sudden.

Strength Training Schedule:

Bijli Mahadev Trek Strength Training Plan

Workouts marked with (*) are optional. But completing them, will help you prepare better.

Note:

Alternatives to 10 Standard Pushups = (2 x 10 = 20 knee pushups) = (2 x 20 = 40 wall pushups)
Alternative to 20 full squats = (2 x 20 = 40 half squats)
If you are not able to complete 1 full set of any plank, divide it into 2 halves and complete it with a rest break in between. For example: If you are not able to complete 30 seconds of a standard plank, divide it into 2 sets of 15 seconds each.
After completing a few weeks of training, if you can progress, you may increase the number of sets or reps for desired results.
Workouts marked with (*) are optional. But completing them, will help you prepare better.

Important note: We accept only running, jogging, or walking workout screenshots as fitness proof. Screenshots of cross-training workouts will not be considered valid. We've suggested cross-training options to help keep your fitness journey engaging and fun, allowing you to explore activities you enjoy and avoid inconsistency.

Note: Use apps like Nike and Strava to record your runs.

What happens if you are not fit:

You do not enjoy the trek
You struggle to be a part of the team because you’re slow.
You miss out on a deep, transformative experience that Indiahikes specially designs for you.

The good part is it is not difficult. All you need to do is start following the fitness routine 6 to 8 weeks before your trek begins.

We are here to help you in this fitness journey. Just start slow and as long as you are committed and consistent with your routine, you are in for an unforgettable trek experience. :)

Yes, you do get mobile networks from all major service providers on the trail.

You won't find an ATM near the Indiahikes campus, but you will find ATMs of all major banks in Naggar, which is 4 km away. It's better to withdraw money from Manali before proceeding to the Indiahikes campus.

The only place you’ll find a plug to charge your phone or camera batteries will be at Indiahikes Manali Jungle Line Campus before starting the trek.

Therefore, use your electronic equipment wisely. Fully charge your batteries before leaving your hotel, and use your electronic equipment minimally.

Another thing to note is that cold temperatures drain the batteries faster. Having extra batteries or a power bank helps.

Yes, we have the option of leaving behind extra luggage at the basecamp. Every trekker is permitted to leave behind one piece of luggage at no charge. Anything beyond one piece of luggage is chargeable at Rs 500 per piece.

You can leave behind any kind of bag, including backpacks, suitcases, duffel bags, or kit bags. Ensure you leave no valuables (laptops, cash, or electronics) in this luggage.

The Bijli Mahadev trek is suitable for all age groups. This is because the terrain of the trek is relatively gentle and well-maintained, making it accessible for everyone. The trails are not overly strenuous, allowing everyone to enjoy the trek.

The Indiahikes trek route starts from Kot village and offers you the best of what a trek can offer - a glimpse into the culture of remote Himalayan villages, picturesque forest trails, camping in the forest and the sunset views from the summit. The popular route is a short 3 km trek that can be completed in half a day and offers only views from the top.

Yes, you can rent gear from our Crosstrek Store like any of our other Indiahikes treks.

Having more footprint through porters or mules on any trail isn’t good for the ecosystem. This is why, at Indiahikes, we do not encourage offloading. A trekker carries his/her own backpack in the true spirit of trekking.

But if — due to a medical condition — you are not able to carry your own backpack, you can offload your backpack. The cost of offloading on the Bijli Mahadev trek is Rs 1,200 for the entire trek. Find details about the offloading process here.

Photo Gallery

Bijli Mahadev Trek Videos

Expert Speak

Abhishek Tiwari

Slope Manager, Indiahikes

Abhishek Tiwari

Slope Manager, Indiahikes

Abhishek is a slope manager at Indiahikes. Before transitioning into the slope manager's role, he was a trek leader and has led many treks at Indiahikes. Abhishek explored the alternative route to the Bijli Mahadev Temple and fell in love with what this short 3-day trek has to offer. Here's what he has to say about the trek.

What I Like About the Bijli Mahadev Trek

Abhishek Tiwari

Slope Manager, Indiahikes

1. Serene walk in pine and ancient deodar forests

Just 15 minutes into the trek from Kot village, you enter the forest section. The way the forests are layered on the Bijli Mahadev trek is unique. Unlike most forest walks, the trails are wide and flat. You can see through it for a long distance.

On the very first day of the trek, you camp amidst these trees, which is again an experience to cherish.

On most of your travels, you get to experience sunsets from either mountains or beaches. On this trek, you get to experience them in the forests. As the sun sets on the horizon, the forest floor gets lit up by the evening sunlight. It’s a sight to behold.

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Walking in the Borsu pine forest section is a beautiful experience that stays with you for a long time. Photo by Abhishek Tiwari

2. The view of Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges from the top

The rewards you get on this trek are way more than the effort you put in. From the Bijli Mahadev temple, you get to witness some of the prominent peaks, such as Deo Tibba, Hanuman Tibba, Friendship Peak, and Parvati Parbath, among others peaks of Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar Ranges.
Along with the peaks, you get to witness four valleys from the peak: Parbati, Gorsa, Kullu, and Bhuntar Valley. Something you don't get to see often.

If you are lucky with clear skies, you will even witness the confluence of the Beas and Parvati Rivers down the valley.

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As you trek to the top during sunset, witnessing the alpen glow on the snow-capped mountains is a bonus. Photo by Abhishek Tiwari

3. The drive from Manali to Kot village

The journey from Manali to Kot is one of the most picturesque ones.

As you are driving to Kullu, the Beas River accompanies you. It flows down the valley just beside the road. The route goes downhill, winding through the mountains with apple trees lining both sides. The scenery changes with each turn.

Once you reach Kullu, the next leg of the journey involves a steep climb to Kot village, through sharp multiple hairpin bends. As you go further up the valley, you get to see a bird's-eye view of the entire Kullu valley. Just 4 kilometres before Kot village, you start seeing the peaks of the Pir Panjal range.