An Overview
The trek to Yulla Kanda (3,895m) is a spiritual trek in Rora valley, Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. The best time for the Yulla Kanda trek is in the month of Mid-May to Mid-October. Urni is the nearest village from the base camp and the total trek length is about 12 km. Yulla Kanda trekking offers an enchanting view of Kinnaur mountains. Besides, it is also home to an ancient Lord Krishna Temple located inside the lake. It is believed that the Pandavas made this holy lake during their exile in the Himalayas, and it is the highest Krishna temple in the world. Yulla Kanda trekking starts from Yulla Khas, a small village located on the slope of hills. Famous for its Kinnauri apples, this small village is just 3 km from Urni Village and is rich in culture.
Trek Analysis:
Total trek length to reach Yulla Lake is of 12 km from this base village, which goes through the dense forest of oak, pine and deodar trees, then leading into the meadows, and finally towards the holy lake. People from all over Kinnaur and other parts of Himachal Pradesh visit this holy lake during Janmashtami festival to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna. In addition, people from Kalpa and Pangi village go through arduous trek via Kashang Pass (4,800m) to reach this lake. One can also approach Kafnu village via Listigarang Pass (4,680m) located towards North-West of Yulla lake. From Kafnu one can further continue the trek towards Bhabha Pass, a gateway from Kinnaur to Spiti.
Furthermore, an hour trek towards the North-East of Yulla Lake will take you to Rora Kanda (3,900m), where one can do the overnight camping with the breathtaking view of passes around. On a clear sunny bright day, one can also witness Buran Pass from Yulla Kanda. Buran pass is the gateway to Chandernahan Lakes, which is the source of Pabbar river flowing through Rohru and finally which gets merged with Yamuna river. It should be noted that to have a beautiful experience of Yulla, one can visit this place in May month when it's full of snow and mesmerizing beauty all around. Trekatribe offers trekking to this amazing trek starting from May to October.
Route
Shimla-Tapri-Urni-Yulla Khas-Yulla Lake-Yulla Khas-Urni-Tapri-Shimla
Altitude
 3,895m /12,778 feet
Trek Length
12 km (one-way)
Duration
2Nights/3Days
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Best Season
May to Mid-October
Quick Facts About Yulla Kanda Trek
- Yulla Kanda is home to an ancient Krishna temple located inside the lake which is believed to be made by Pandavas during their Exile.
- People walk many miles from Pangi and Kalpa village to reach Yulla Kanda by crossing Kashang Pass (4,800m), during the Janmashtami festival, as that time there is a huge fair held in Yulla Kanda.
- Towards the North-West of Yulla Kanda is Listigarang Pass (4,680m) which leads to Kafnu village, Bhabha Valley and further to Bhabha Pass via Muling.
- The lake is said to have healing properties, a dip in this holy lake will take all the negativity from the mind and body away.
Yulla Kanda Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Shimla and Drive to Yulla Khas Village
- Duration: 8 hours drive
- Your journey begins with your arrival in Shimla, the charming capital of Himachal Pradesh. From Shimla, enjoy a scenic drive through the winding roads of Himachal to reach Yulla Khas, a quaint village located near Urni. Known for its rich Kinnauri culture and luscious apple orchards, Yulla Khas is the starting point for this trek.
- Evening Activities:
- Trek briefing and orientation session.
- Interaction with the warm and hospitable villagers.
- Dinner and an overnight stay in a comfortable homestay.
Day 2: Trek to the Meadow Base Camp
- Distance: 10 km | Time: 5-6 hours
- After a hearty breakfast, begin your trek from Yulla Khas village. The trail takes you through dense forests of oak, pine, and deodar, with the fresh mountain air rejuvenating your spirit. As you ascend, you’ll reach expansive meadows, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Kinnaur mountains.
- Evening at the meadow base camp.
- Enjoy a bonfire under the starry sky.
- Savour a delicious dinner and engage in lively conversations with fellow trekkers.
Day 3: Trek to Yulla Kanda Lake and Return to Shimla
- Distance: 2 km trek to Yulla Kanda Lake + descent to Yulla Khas + drive back to Shimla
- Begin your day early with a wholesome breakfast. Trek 2 km to reach the breathtaking Yulla Kanda Lake, nestled at an altitude of 3,895m. Spend time soaking in the spiritual and tranquil vibes of this holy site, home to an ancient Krishna Temple believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their exile. Enjoy stunning views of surrounding mountain passes like Kashang Pass and Buran Pass on a clear day.
- After exploring the lake and its surroundings, start your descent back to Yulla Khas. From there, embark on your return drive to Shimla, carrying unforgettable memories of this once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience.
Heavy Group Discounts Available.
Pro Tip: If you're planning to experience the true beauty of Yulla Kanda, visit in May when the region is covered in snow, offering a magical landscape.
Start your trek with Trekatribe for an unforgettable journey through the spiritual heart of Kinnaur!
*Stay at Shimla and transport from Delhi/Chandigarh can be arranged at an additional cost.
Yulla Kanda Gallery
Explore Yulla Kanda Gallery, one of the most peaceful lakes of Himachal. Yulla Kanda images are fascinating. Yulla Kanda is situated at an altitude of 3,895 meters in Himalayan ranges of Kinnaur district. Preview the spellbound beauty & well-organized pictures of Lord Krishna Temple located inside the lake.