A challenging high-mountain pass expedition linking the historic valley of Har Ki Dun and Ruinsara Tal with Yamunotri across the knife-edge crest of Bali Pass at nearly 5,000m.
The Bali Pass Trek is an exhilarating, adrenaline-fueled high-altitude crossover trek in western Garhwal. Perched at 4,950 meters, the pass straddles the dramatic divide between the Tons River valley (Govind Pashu Vihar) and the Yamuna River valley.
Commencing from Sankri, the trail passes through ancient wooden villages like Osla and diverts towards the sacred, turquoise waters of Ruinsara Tal (3,600m). Trekkers then ascend past Thanga and Odari camp onto the stark moraine of Bali Pass.
The final ascent over the pass features steep 50-degree snow slopes and a thrilling knife-edge ridge walk with jaw-dropping views of Bandarpoonch (6,316m) and Swargarohini, before a rapid descent to the holy temple of Yamunotri.
Trekkers are reminded to stay properly hydrated with a minimum of 3-4 liters of water daily. Uttarakhand forest regulations strictly forbid single-use plastics and campfires outside designated grounds. Always pack out non-biodegradable waste.
Along the ridgelines and summit ascents of Bali Pass Trek, trekkers are treated to sweeping views of legendary Garhwal & Kumaon summits:
Drive along Tons river.
Trek along Supin river.
Trek through pine and birch forests to the sacred glacial tarn.
Explore the lake and views of Black Peak.
Ascend to the cave camp of Odari beneath Bali Pass.
Pre-dawn summit push over snow ridge and knife-edge pass; steep descent to Damini.
Visit Yamunotri dham and hot springs.
Return drive.
Proper layering and alpine gear are critical for comfort and survival at high altitudes:
The trailhead for Bali Pass Trek originates from Sankri in Uttarkashi district (Garhwal region).
Difficult. It involves steep snow sections, ridge crossings, and high altitude (4,950m).
The Tons/Supin valley (Sankri) and the Yamuna valley (Yamunotri).
Ruinsara Tal, a sacred alpine lake sacred to the local Garhwali community.
Microspikes/crampons and ropes are typically used on the pass crossing.
June before monsoon, and September to mid-October for clear weather.
Mount Bandarpoonch and Kalanag (Black Peak) loom directly overhead.