Kareri Lake, Glacial lake in Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh, India
Kareri Lake sits at roughly 2,934 meters (9,626 feet) elevation, fed by snowmelt and glacier water flowing down from Mankiani Peak through the Nyund Stream. The waters collect in a mountain basin surrounded by steep ridges and forested slopes in the Dhauladhar range.
The lake takes its name from Kareri village, founded by the Gaddi people who were shepherds migrating to the highlands each summer. They constructed temporary stone shelters called Gaddi kothis around these waters to tend their flocks during the grazing season.
A temple dedicated to Shiva and Shakti sits on a nearby hill, making this one of seven sacred waters in the Dhauladhar range. Pilgrims and visitors come to experience this spiritual connection with the mountains.
The best time to visit is from June through September, when snow and ice have melted and the trails are passable and safer for trekking. Having a local guide helps with finding the right path and learning about the surroundings along the way.
During winter months from December to April, the lake surface freezes solid into an ice sheet, completely transforming the landscape. This seasonal shift means each visit offers a different visual experience depending on when you arrive.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
