If you’re eyeing the Bali Pass Trek, you’re likely wondering what the distance looks like day by day. I’ve done this trek myself, and let me tell you—it’s not just about the views; it’s about knowing what you’re getting into before you lace up those boots. I’ll keep this short, crisp, and super practical. No fluff, just what you need to plan.
Oh, and if you’re looking to do this trek with an experienced crew, The Searching Souls (TSS) handles this route really smoothly. They don’t overhype or push hard sells, but they do know their stuff.
Total Distance of Bali Pass Trek
Usually completed in 7-8 days, the entire trekking route to Bali Pass is around 66 kilometres. While it sounds manageable on paper, the terrain, altitude, and weather demand good fitness and preparation.
Day-Wise Breakdown of Bali Pass Trek Distance
Let’s dive straight into what each day looks like on the trail.
Day 1: Sankri to Taluka (Drive) + Taluka to Seema (12 km Trek)
- Drive: Around 11 km from Sankri to Taluka (1-hour jeep ride)
- Trek Distance: 12 km
- Duration: 6–7 hours
From Sankri to Taluka, you begin the day with a picturesque but rocky jeep ride. It’s a beautiful forest walk along the Supin River once you get on the track. The gradient is gentle, which helps ease you into the rhythm of trekking.
You’ll pass through small wooden bridges, thick pine forests, and the occasional local village. Reaching Seema feels rewarding—not just for the views, but because this leg is a solid warm-up. The camping spot near Seema, usually by the riverbank, is peaceful and lets you soak in the wilderness.
Day 2: Seema to Rainbasera (10 km Trek)
- Trek Distance: 10 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
This stretch gradually introduces you to higher altitudes. The trail provides breathtaking vistas of the snow-covered summits as it climbs steadily. You walk along the Supin River again, but the terrain starts to narrow.
Rainbasera is a remote campsite with minimal resources, so don’t expect luxury here. It is untamed, silent, and has the sensation of a real wilderness. This is where you really start feeling disconnected from the outside world—in a good way.
I remember waking up to the sound of glacial streams and noticing the change in air pressure. It gets colder here, so layering up is essential.
Day 3: Rainbasera to Ruinsara Tal (7 km Trek)
- Trek Distance: 7 km
- Duration: 4–5 hours
This might be the most scenic part of the trek. You’ll climb gradually to reach Ruinsara Tal, a crystal-clear alpine lake nestled in the middle of towering snow peaks.
Even though the distance is short, the altitude gain is noticeable. You’ll feel the thinner air as you approach 11,800 feet. Take it slow. Hydration and pacing are key.
The campsite here is unreal—one of those spots that stays in your memory long after the trek. The reflections in the lake, the calm surroundings—it’s a good place for acclimatization and a soul reset.
Day 4: Ruinsara Tal to Odari (4 km Trek)
- Trek Distance: 4 km
- Duration: 3–4 hours
A short but significant trek day. The trail moves from meadows to rocky terrain. You gain serious altitude here, hitting around 13,100 feet at Odari.
This is your prep ground before the summit. It’s windy, cold, and wild—but beautiful. We had a clear sky, and the stars were insane at night.
It’s crucial to monitor how your body reacts to this elevation. Most groups, including the one I went with through TSS, take a slow approach here to help with acclimatization.
Day 5: Odari to Bali Pass Summit (4.6 km) and Down to Lower Dhamni (7 km)
- Total Distance: ~11.6 km
- Duration: 9–10 hours
The trek’s most demanding and fruitful day is this one.
The first 4.6 km to Bali Pass (16,207 ft) is a steep climb through snow and ice. You may require crampons or microspikes, depending on the season. The final ascent is difficult, but the panoramic views from the top? Well worth the investment. You will be able to see peaks like Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and Black Peak.
It is difficult on the knees to descend to Lower Dhamni. It’s steep and slippery in places, so trekking poles help a lot. This is where you truly earn your badge as a high-altitude trekker.
Day 6: Lower Dhamni to Janki Chatti (7 km Trek) + Drive to Dehradun
- Trek Distance: 7 km
- Duration: 4 hours
- Drive: Around 6–7 hours
The last day is easier in terms of gradient. The experience of trekking through forests is nearly meditative. You will arrive at Janki Chatti, the Yamunotri Temple’s base.
From here, it’s a long drive back to Dehradun, so most people start early.
What You Should Know Before You Go
- Best Time: May to June and mid-September to October
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Max Altitude: 16,207 feet (4,940 meters)
- Fitness Level: Needs preparation—cardio, strength training, and mental grit
- Permits Required: Yes, and the company usually arranges them
Why I Chose The Searching Souls (TTS)
There are a ton of companies doing this balipass trek. I went with The Searching Souls (TTS) based on a friend’s recommendation, and they delivered exactly what I needed—solid guides, well-planned campsites, emergency protocols, and most importantly, no hand-holding.
They weren’t pushy or commercial at all. Just a reliable team that lets the mountains do the talking. If you’re looking for someone experienced without all the touristy vibes, TTS is worth checking out.
Final Thoughts
The Bali Pass Trek is one of those treks that balances difficulty with raw Himalayan beauty. It’s not for beginners, but it’s also not impossible if you’re prepared. Each day offers something unique—from riverbanks and forests to alpine lakes and snow passes.
If you’re the kind of trekker who craves both solitude and challenge, Bali Pass delivers big time.
FAQs
1. Is Bali Pass Trek safe for solo trekkers?
Not really. The terrain, altitude, and remoteness make it unsafe unless you’re highly experienced. It’s best done in a guided group.
2. How cold does it get at Bali Pass?
It can drop to -5°C to -10°C at night near the summit, especially in early mornings. Layering is essential.
3. Can beginners attempt this trek?
Only if they’re super fit and have done other moderate treks. This trek tests your stamina and mental toughness.
4. Are there mobile signals on the trek?
Only at Sankri. After that, you’re off the grid. It’s part of the charm, honestly.
5. What’s the food like on the trek?
Simple, nutritious, and veg-based. You get hot meals, snacks, tea, and plenty of hydration support.
