Yulla Kanda Trek

• Clear the remaining payment before starting the Yulla Kanda Trek.
• Avoid bringing suitcases, strollers, or duffel bags; use a comfortable backpack instead.
• Be ready for varying weather conditions. Check the forecast and pack suitable clothing and gear.
• Be prepared for fundamental facilities and limited amenities in this remote area.

Yulla Kanda Trek: A Journey into the Mystical Himalayas

The Yulla Kanda trek is an enchanting journey that offers breathtaking views of the Kinnaur mountains and a profound spiritual experience. This trek is renowned for leading adventurers to the world’s highest Krishna temple, situated in the middle of a serene lake, believed to have been created by the Pandavas during their exile in the Himalayas.

Yulla Kanda Trek Overview

• Location: Rora Valley, Kinnaur District, Himachal Pradesh
• Altitude: 3,895 meters (12,778 feet)
• Trek Length: 11-12 kilometers
• Starting Point: Yulla Khas, a small village on a hillside, 3 kilometres above Urni Village in Nichar Tehsil
• Best Time to Trek: Mid-May to Mid-October

The Trekking Route

The journey begins in the retro village of Yulla Khas, known for its Kinnauri apples and rich culture. As trekkers move through the 12-kilometer trail, they traverse dense forests of oak, pine, and deodar trees. The path then opens to lush meadows, finally leading to the mystical Yulla Lake.

Yulla Lake and Krishna Temple

Yulla Lake is nestled deep in the Rora Valley and surrounded by the majestic, snow-capped Himalayas. It is home to an ancient Krishna temple in the middle of the lake. At an altitude of 3,895 meters, it is the highest Krishna temple in the world. The temple, accessible to all regardless of faith, is a testimony to the region’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance.

The temple and lake hold great significance in local folklore. Pandavas created this temple during their exile. The lake and the temple attract pilgrims from all over Kinnaur and other parts of Himachal Pradesh, especially during the Janmashtami festival, which celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna.

Scenic Beauty and Spiritual Significance

The trek offers unparalleled views of the Kinnaur mountains and Listigarang Valley to the northwest. Listigarang Pass leads to Kafnu Village and Bhabha Pass. To the northeast lies the Kashang Valley, with Kashang Pass leading to Pangi Village of Kinnaur.

Yulla Kanda is not just a trek but a pilgrimage that takes trekkers through a landscape steeped in mythology and natural beauty. The serene environment, coupled with the spiritual aura of the Krishna temple, makes the Yulla Kanda trek a unique and unforgettable experience.

Preparation and Tips for Yulla Kanda Trek

• Physical Fitness: Ensure a good level of physical fitness due to the high altitude and challenging terrain.
• Acclimatisation is a crucial part of the trek. Spend a day or two in nearby villages like Urni or Yulla Khas to acclimatise. It will ensure that your body adjusts to the high altitude, making your trek safer and more enjoyable.
• Gear: Pack appropriate trekking gear, including warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and necessary camping equipment.
• Guides: If you are visiting Yulla Kanda for the first time, you should hire a local guide to navigate the trail.

Janmashtami Celebration at Yulla Kanda

The present Bushah king, King Kehari Singh of the Bushahr estate, widely celebrates Janmashtami in the region. People throw a traditional Kinnaur cap into the lake as part of the celebration. If the cap floats to the other side without sinking, the person will have a year filled with peace, joy, and calmness.

On Lord Krishna’s birth anniversary, a large crowd gathers at the temple to seek forgiveness for their sins and wrongdoings. This tradition is a significant event for visitors, residents, and people from nearby districts who participate in throwing the cap into the lake.

The Yulla Kanda trek is a remarkable journey that combines adventure with spirituality, offering trekkers a unique opportunity to explore the lesser-known wonders of Himachal Pradesh. Whether the mystical allure of the ancient Krishna temple or the stunning vistas of the Kinnaur mountains draws you, this trek promises an experience that will linger in your memory long after you have descended the Himalayan trails.