An Introduction to the Lovely Campsites of Bali Pass Trek

Bali Pass Trek is a wonderful offbeat trek in Uttarakhand. This trek is a wonderful blend of adventure and natural beauty and gives you the best experience when it comes to trekking in Himalayas. The trek starts from the mountain village of Sankri in Uttarkashi district and it takes you to an altitude of 16,200 ft. The Bali Pass Trek is one of the most thrilling treks in Uttarakhand and it winds through dramatic mountain landscapes, charming little villages, and rugged terrains that give you a great introduction to trekking in Uttarakhand. The Bali Pass Trek is quite close to our heart and to give you a special Himalayan experience all the campsites in the trek are carefully chosen. Not only do they aid you in acclimatizing properly but also present the best of natural beauty and splendour. Take a look at all the lovely campsites along the Bali Pass Trek.

Seema Campsite

This is the first campsite on the Bali Pass Trek and rests along the Supin River. This campsite serves as a serene escapade for the trekkers on the Bali Pass Trek.  Situated about 12 kilometres from Taluka, the journey to Seema begins with a scenic drive through bamboo and deodar forests, crossing streams along a winding road from Sankri. Along the trekking route, trekkers are treated to breathtaking views of dense walnut, chestnut, and willow forests, accompanied by the soothing sound of the flowing river. En route to Seema, you will also cross the Gangad village, which offers a glimpse into the rich Himalayan culture and architecture. With its vibrant ambiance and traditional Garhwali lifestyle, Gangad Village has become a popular tourist destination along the trekking route. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine wilderness, Seema serves as a peaceful retreat amidst the rugged experience of trekking in Himalayas. 

Devsu Bugyal campsite

From Seema, trekking along the Supin River takes you to your next campsite – Devsu Bugyal. Set amidst the enchanting Ruinsara forest, Devsu Bugyal is adorned with a myriad of Himalayan wildflowers and lush foliage, creating a picturesque backdrop for trekkers. The forest teems with diverse bird and animal species, offering opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to spot rare sightings along the way.

As we make our way towards Devsu Bugyal, the trail to Bali Pass leads us through a forest canopy, where sandy and stony paths gradually descend to the riverbed. Crossing the Supin River, our path meanders along its banks, with the river now on our right, guiding us towards the Rain Basera campsite. While the trail may present some slippery sections towards the end, caution ensures a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Ascending towards Devsu Bugyal, the landscape transforms, offering breathtaking vistas of Osla Village and the rugged terrain of the Ruinsara Valley. The Devsu Bugyal meadows stretch for approximately 2 kilometers. 

Ruinsara Campsite

The Ruinsara Tal Campsite on the Bali Pass Trek is one of the most beautiful and cherished campsites. Set by the Ruinsara Lake, the campsites ooze a deep serenity, a solace where one finds themselves one with nature. The Ruinsara Tal is surrounded by verdant meadows and encircled by majestic peaks exuding a sense of wonder and tranquility. The campsite itself is strategically located, offering enchanting views of both Ruinsara Lake and the Supin River.

The panoramic vistas from the campsite are nothing short of mesmerizing, with Yamuna Kanta to the southwest and the towering peaks of Bandarpunch and Dhumdhar Kandi Range to the east. Towards the southeast, trekkers are treated to the awe-inspiring sights of Kala Nag and White Peak, adding to the allure of the surroundings. If you ask us, we would say Ruinsara Tal is one such campsite that truly encompasses the essence of trekking in Himalayas.

Odari Campsite

Odari campsite in the Bali Pass Trek is a serene retreat surrounded by natural splendour. The name Odari means naturally made rock cave and the local folklore recounts the tale of Sugreev's brother, Bali, purportedly spending a night here at Odari.  The campsite also treats visitors to stunning vistas of the Swargrohini peaks. If you are lucky, you might find evidence of the rare Himalayan mountain bear as well. Set in a unique location, Odari campsite boasts panoramic views of picturesque valleys below and the formidable Bali Pass looming behind.

Bali Col Camp

Bali Col Camp is the last camp before you ascend to the Bali Pass. The campsite is located amidst the rugged terrain of the Bali Pass Trek at a lofty altitude of 15,100 ft. This campsite gives you a great view of mountain panoramas all around and fills you with anticipation as you are about to climb the pass.

At an altitude of 15,100 feet, proper hydration and physical activity become paramount to mitigate the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). The ascent along the sharply inclined ridge, with slopes reaching up to 60 degrees, demands considerable endurance and effort from trekkers. Additionally, the rapidly plummeting temperatures and prolonged acclimatization process at such heights necessitate meticulous preparation and adherence to the guidance of the trek leader.

Lower Dhamni Campsite

Lower Dhamni is the last campsite on the Bali Pass Trek and is also extremely scenic. The descent to this campsite from the Bali Pass is quite adventurous as well. Descending through the narrow confines of the Bali Pass Summit, where space is limited to accommodate only a handful of individuals at a time, trekkers experience a profound sense of accomplishment as they conquer the formidable obstacles that lay in their path. A maze of trails leads to this beautiful campsite, which is a serene respite in nature’s embrace. You are in the forest again and soon will head back to civilization.

So, these are the campsites that you will encounter along the Bali Pass Trek, each one offering its own unique charm and challenges. From the serene banks of Seema to the lofty heights of Lower Dhamni, each campsite presents an opportunity for adventure, exploration, and connection with the pristine beauty of the Himalayas. As you traverse through these rugged landscapes, guided by the expertise of your trek leader and surrounded by the camaraderie of fellow adventurers, you will embark on a journey of self-discovery and unforgettable experiences.