Overview
We have all at one point dreamed of doing daring things. Things that require us to come out of our comfort zone and challenge us to unleash the hidden explorer in us. It’s time to embark on an enthralling journey with an incredible Laka Glacier Trek. Laka Glacier, also known as Laka Got Glacier, is located in the lush green Dhauladhar Range in Himachal Pradesh. Being the lowest altitude glacier in India, it is at the height of only 10,600 feet. A challenging hike to Laka Glacier is all you need to marvel at the magnificience of nature. The sunset from Triund, Laka Glacier is the most outstanding feature of the trek. Here are few essential things that will help you unravel the the challenges of the trek.
About the Laka Glacier Trek
The Laka Glacier Trek is an easy to moderate one depending on your fitness level and training. Despite of being a short trip, the thrills of the trek is not compensated. It is equally exciting with a beginner-level trek.
How to Reach
The base camp of the Laka Glacier trek starts from Bhagsu Nag near the marvellous suburb of Mcleodganj. The distance from Mcleodganj to Laka Glacier is 16 kms. The trek is covered via Triund, which is one of the shortest treks with an enriching experience. Many people have witnessed the beauty of Triund, however the Laka Glacier trek is the one where you feel the magical experience. The distance from Triund to Laka Glacier trek is 6 kms. You can reach Dharmashala or Mcleodganj by road by taking a bus or taxi. If you prefer airplane then you can fly to Gaggal Airport in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. From there, you will need to hire a taxi to reach the starting point. You can also reach by a train to Pathankot Railway Station from where you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Dharamshala or Mcleaodganj, followed by reaching the starting point, Bhagsu Nag village.
Challenges and Preperations
Any trek, even an easy one requires physical fitness and mental preparation. Before embarking on this adventure, it is advisable to engage in exercises such as sqauts, lunges and some upper body strength training. It is suggested to strenghten your muscles and improving cardiovascular fitness. The challenging trek has stiff gradient and therefore a preparation should be started 15 days prior the scheduled date. Even though the Laka Glacier is just 6 km away from Triund top, it is much more challenging than the latter. If you are planning to just reach the Triund top , then you can go without preparations but if you plan to proceed further, then preparations are required.
Essential Things to Carry for the Trek
- Clothes- Camping near the Laka Glacier can be chilly since the temperature falls below zero-degree celsius. It’s better to carry comfortable and layered clothing like one set of thermal wear, 2 sets of full sleeve t-shirts, woolen socks, cotton socks, sturdy trekking shoes, one muffler or scarf, one wind cheater and a raincoat.
- First Aid Kit- We all know that prevention is better than cure. Therefore, you should carry essential first aid items for emergency purposes. Such items include avil, bandage, waterproof handiplast, muscle relaxants, paracetamol and antisepctic cream.
- Other things to carry- There are few other things which you can carry with you. For instance, sleeping bag and mat, snacks and energy bars, water bottles, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, flashlight or headlamp and personal toiletries.
Best Time to Trek
You can visit the mesmerising beauty of Laka Glacier throughout the year, However, few weather conditions are more suitable than other. The ideal time to begin the journey is during the summer and autumn months, from May to October. The weather during this time is stable. You can experience the iriscdent hues of flowers and snow-covered areas. The best month according to trekkers is October. You can witness the effulgent sunrise and sunset, clear skies and chirping of birds. It is the perfect time to cherish the cool breeze and relish the scrumptious meals. October is definitely one of the most picturesque months peremeated with panaromic views of valleys and hills. You can trek even during winters according to your cold tolerance level and experience the stupendous beauty of the snow-capped mountains.
Conclusion
The Laka Glacier Trek provides us an impeccable opportunity to explore the unearthly beauty of the Himalayas and indulge ourselves in the grandeur beauty of the nature. Reaching Laka Glacier feels like conquering the world and is one of the most enriching experiences of life. You are rewarded with panoramic views, exposed to the local cultures and you can finally return with a sense of great satisfaction.