The short answer
Bali Pass Trek: what visitors should know first
Go only if you have done at least one high-altitude trek and are very fit. It takes about eight days from Sankri to Janki Chatti. Pass day is long and steep, with a sharp descent. Not suitable for older travellers or anyone with health or mobility limits.
History and context
The story behind Bali Pass Trek
Bali Pass links the Har Ki Dun and Ruinsara valleys, inside Govind Pashu Vihar, with the Yamunotri valley. It is one of the higher and harder treks in the Sankri region.
Useful facts
Bali Pass Trek facts at a glance
- Location
- Sankri to Janki Chatti via the Ruinsara valley
- Altitude
- About 4,950 m (16,200 ft)
- Experience type
- Pass trek
- Known for
- Ruinsara Tal and the descent to Yamunotri
- Time or schedule
- About 8 days; May–June and September–October
Why it matters
Why Bali Pass Trek is worth your time
Bali Pass joins two of Garhwal's best-known places: the Har Ki Dun–Ruinsara country above Sankri and the Yamunotri pilgrimage. From the upper camps and the pass it gives views of Swargarohini, Bandarpunch and Kala Nag (Black Peak).
Most of the route lies inside Govind Pashu Vihar, a protected area. Camping and fires are controlled, so follow your guide's instructions and carry out every piece of waste. Fewer groups make this crossing than Har Ki Dun, so the upper valley stays quiet.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Ruinsara Tal
A small high lake in the Ruinsara valley, used as a camp.
- 02
High camp views
Swargarohini, Bandarpunch and Kala Nag seen from the base camp and pass.
- 03
Arrival at Yamunotri
The trek ends by walking down past the Yamunotri shrine.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Most itineraries leave Sankri by road to the trailhead and walk up the Supin valley to Seema, at about 2,560 m. From there the route turns into the Ruinsara valley rather than Har Ki Dun, with camps at Devsu Thach and at Ruinsara Tal, a small lake at about 3,565 m.
The climb continues to Odari and a high base camp at about 4,600 m. Pass day starts in the dark, climbs to Bali Pass at about 4,950 m (16,200 ft), and then makes a steep, careful descent to Lower Dhamni. The last day leads down past Yamunotri temple to Janki Chatti, where the road begins.
This is a trek for experienced walkers with a strong operator. Expect snow and loose ground near the pass, and keep a spare day for weather. Transport from Janki Chatti back to Dehradun needs to be arranged in advance.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Book with an experienced operator
- Arrange the forest permit at Sankri
- Plan pickup at Janki Chatti
- Carry a spare weather day
- Pack full cold-weather gear
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Starts at Sankri, Govind Pashu Vihar; ends at Janki Chatti below Yamunotri
- Time needed
- About 8 days from Sankri to Janki Chatti
- Best time
- May to June and September to October
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- Not suitable for older travellers: it is a high, exposed pass with long days and a steep descent. Older parents can stay in Sankri and walk its village lanes, or travel round by road to Janki Chatti near Yamunotri to meet the trekkers at the end.
- Tickets and access
- The route runs through Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, so a forest department permit and a registered guide are needed, normally arranged at Sankri or by your operator. Confirm current fees and rules locally.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Bali Pass Trek
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Not suitable for older travellers: it is a high, exposed pass with long days and a steep descent. Older parents can stay in Sankri and walk its village lanes, or travel round by road to Janki Chatti near Yamunotri to meet the trekkers at the end.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Where does the Bali Pass trek end?
At Janki Chatti, below Yamunotri temple, after descending from the pass.
How high is Bali Pass?
About 4,950 m, or roughly 16,200 ft.
Is Bali Pass suitable for beginners?
No. Operators recommend it only for people who have completed at least one high-altitude trek.
Sources and further reading
- Bikat Adventures: Bali Pass Trek
- Wikipedia: Govind Pashu Vihar National Park
- Himalaya Shelter: Bali Pass Trek
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
