Yulla Kanda Trek Distance & Duration
The Yulla Kanda trek is 11–12 km one way from Yulla Khas village (Kinnaur), making the full return journey approximately 22–24 km. Most fit trekkers complete the day-trek version in 6–8 hours, including time at the temple and for rest stops.
If you opt for the overnight camping version, you can take it at a more leisurely pace - ascending on Day 1 and descending on Day 2. This allows time to watch the sunrise from the temple, which is an unforgettable experience.
Yulla Kanda Trek Height & Altitude Profile
The Yulla Kanda height (temple and lake altitude) is 3,895 metres (12,778 feet) above sea level. The trek begins from Yulla Khas village in Kinnaur district. The total altitude gain is approximately 500–600 m over 11–12 km.
The ascent is gradual for the first 6–7 km through forest trails, then steepens in the final 4–5 km as you enter alpine meadow terrain. Acclimatization should be considered as the trek reaches nearly 4,000 m at its peak.
Trek Route - From the trailhead to Yulla Kanda
The trail begins at Yulla Khas village (Kinnaur). Here is the route breakdown:
- Yulla Khas Village (0 km) - The trek begins here. Register at the forest check-post. The trail enters dense oak and rhododendron forests immediately.
- Forest Campsite (4–5 km) - A good rest point roughly halfway through the forested section. Clear streams and shade.
- Tree Line End (7–8 km) - The forest gives way to open alpine meadows. Views of surrounding Kinnaur peaks open up dramatically.
- Yulla Kanda Lake & Temple (11–12 km) - The sacred glacial lake and the ancient Lord Krishna temple at the summit. The panorama of the Kinner Kailash range here is spectacular.
Yulla Kanda Trek Difficulty Level
The Yulla Kanda trek is rated Moderate. Key factors:
- No technical climbing or rope sections required
- Well-defined trail throughout
- Gradual ascent for most of the route
- Steep section in the last 3 km before the temple
- Starting altitude of 10,236 ft means some trekkers may feel mild altitude effects
Recommended fitness: You should be comfortable walking 20+ km in a day or doing 2–3 hours of exercise regularly. No prior high-altitude trekking experience is required.
Yulla Kanda Trek Time - Day-by-Day Itinerary
Option 1: Day Trek (1 Day)
- 5:00 AM - Start from the trailhead at dawn
- 5:00–8:00 AM - Trek through forest to Khanag (5 km, 3 hours)
- 8:00–11:00 AM - Continue to Yulla Kanda temple (6–7 km, 3 hours)
- 11:00 AM–12:00 PM - Temple visit and lunch at meadow
- 12:00–4:00 PM - Return descent to the trailhead (3.5–4 hours)
- Optional: Explore Rora Kanda meadow on the way down for views of the Kinner Kailash range
Option 2: Overnight Trek (2 Days / 1 Night)
- Day 1: Trek from the trailhead → Yulla Kanda meadow. Camp overnight. Explore temple and surroundings (4–5 hours).
- Day 2: Sunrise at the temple. After breakfast, descend via Rora Kanda meadow back to Yulla Khas village (5–6 hours).
Yulla Kanda Trek Map & Navigation
The trail to Yulla Kanda is well-marked throughout. At the trailhead, the forest department has signboards indicating the route. The trail follows a clear ridge and valley path through the forest. Beyond the tree line, the meadow route is visible and straightforward.
GPS coordinates of Yulla Kanda: Approximately 31.59°N, 78.14°E. We recommend downloading the offline map from Maps.me or AllTrails before starting as mobile connectivity is limited beyond Yulla Khas village.
What to Pack for the Yulla Kanda Trek
- Footwear: Sturdy trekking shoes with ankle support
- Clothing: Layered clothing - t-shirt, fleece jacket, and waterproof outer shell
- Backpack: 30–40 litre daypack
- Food: 3–4 litres of water, energy bars, trail mix, lunch
- Safety: First aid kit, headtorch, whistle, emergency foil blanket
- Documentation: Government ID for forest check-post registration
- Extras: Sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, trekking poles
Trek Permits & Entry Fees
Trekkers must register at the forest check-post at the trailhead. There is a nominal entry fee (typically ₹50–100 per person). Camping at Yulla Kanda meadows requires a separate camping permit from the Forest Department.