The Bijli Mahadev trek is among the oldest and most well-loved treks in Himachal Pradesh. Located in the heart of the Kullu Valley, the trail takes you to the sacred Shiva temple situated on top of Mathan Hill. Most visitors follow the popular route from Chansari village — a short 3 km hike that can be easily completed within half a day.
However, at Himachal Tripper, we’ve explored a lesser-known and far more enriching route to Bijli Mahadev — one that turns this commonly visited trail into a scenic weekend trek. This alternative path passes through quiet Himalayan villages and some of the most beautiful pine and deodar forests in the Kullu Valley. It offers a chance to witness the magnificence of this historic destination in peaceful surroundings, far removed from the usual tourist crowds.
One of the standout features of this trek is its forest stretch. Unlike the narrow paths commonly found on Himalayan trails, the routes here are broad and inviting, allowing you to truly soak in the surroundings. As you walk beneath towering deodar and pine trees, sunlight filters gently through the canopy, creating a magical atmosphere. These spacious forest trails also make it possible to set up camps right inside the woods — a rare and memorable experience on treks in this part of the Himalayas.
The viewpoints from the Bijli Mahadev temple are truly spectacular. On clear days, you’re treated to sweeping views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar mountain ranges. At Himachal Tripper, our trek plan is thoughtfully crafted to help you experience these landscapes at their best, including the stunning golden alpenglow during sunset. From the top, you can witness not just one or two, but four prominent valleys spread out below — Kullu, Bhuntar, Parbati, and Garsa.
Beyond its stunning landscapes, this trek offers a deep glimpse into the culture of the Kullu Valley. Beginning from the charming village of Kot, the trail passes through settlements rich in tradition and local history. The style of homes, the warmth of the people, and the way of life you encounter feel like scenes from a living Himalayan story.
What adds to the charm of this trek is how beginner-friendly it is, making it one of the best weekend treks near Manali for first-timers. It requires minimal preparation and doesn’t demand extensive travel. This makes it ideal for anyone eager to experience trekking but short on time. Families, beginners, and those heading out on their very first trek will find this journey both comfortable and rewarding.
If you’re searching for an easy, picturesque, and culturally immersive weekend getaway near Manali, the Bijli Mahadev trek is an excellent way to begin your mountain adventure.
1. Peaceful walk through pine and ancient deodar forests Within just 15 minutes of starting the trek from Kot village, you step into the forested stretch. The forest layout on the Bijli Mahadev trek is truly distinctive. Unlike the narrow forest paths seen on most Himalayan trails, the routes here are wide, level, and offer clear visibility far ahead. On the very first day, you get to camp right in the heart of this forest — an experience that stays with you long after the trek ends.
While sunsets are usually enjoyed from mountain summits or beaches, this trek offers something different. As evening sets in, golden sunlight filters through the tall trees, illuminating the forest floor in warm hues. Watching the sun go down amidst towering deodars and pines is a rare and unforgettable sight
2. Sweeping views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges The effort you put into this trek is generously rewarded. From the Bijli Mahadev temple, you are treated to stunning views of several iconic peaks, including Deo Tibba, Hanuman Tibba, Friendship Peak, and Parvati Parbat, along with many other summits of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges.
In addition to the mountains, the viewpoint offers a rare perspective of four major valleys — Parbati, Garsa, Kullu, and Bhuntar — all visible from one spot. On exceptionally clear days, you may even spot the confluence of the Beas and Parvati rivers far below in the valley, a sight not commonly witnessed on Himalayan treks
3. Scenic drive from Manali to Kot village The journey from Manali to Kot village is a visual treat in itself. As you drive towards Kullu, the Beas River flows alongside the road, tracing your route through the valley. The drive gradually descends, winding through mountain roads bordered by apple orchards on both sides. With every turn, the landscape changes, offering fresh views at each bend.
After reaching Kullu, the road begins a steep ascent towards Kot village, navigating a series of sharp hairpin bends. As you climb higher, panoramic views of the entire Kullu Valley unfold below. Around four kilometres before reaching Kot, the peaks of the Pir Panjal range start coming into view, setting the perfect tone for the trek ahead
At Himachal Tripper, we strongly believe that trekkers should be well-prepared before setting out on any trek. Proper knowledge can be the key difference between a safe journey and a risky one. It also shapes whether your experience feels truly enriching or merely surface-level.
This section is designed to help you thoroughly understand the Bijli Mahadev Trek. You’ll find detailed insights into each day of the itinerary, what conditions to expect on the trail, and how to prepare effectively. Years of on-ground experience have gone into creating this content, and trekkers consistently find it extremely helpful when planning their journey.
Pick-up time: 06:00 AM | Pick-up location: Beas Bridge, Manali | Drive distance to Kot Village: 41 km | Drive duration: Approximately 1.5 hours | Trek distance: 2 km | Trek duration: Around 3 hours | Water sources: There are no water points along the trail. Please carry at least 2 litres of water from the base camp. | If you are reaching independently, please report at the campus by 07:00 AM.
The Himachal Tripper Manali Campus is located around 15 km from Manali, in a quiet area known as Sarsai. Surrounded by lush apple orchards, the campus offers a peaceful setting near the town
Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at the campus before boarding the vehicle for Kot village, which is approximately 40 km away. The drive takes about 1.5 hours.
As you head towards Kullu, enjoy stunning views of the Beas River rushing through the valley. This stretch of the road is largely downhill, winding through the mountains with apple orchards lining both sides. With every turn, the scenery shifts, offering fresh and beautiful perspectives.
After reaching Kullu, the route begins a steep ascent towards Kot village, marked by several sharp hairpin bends. As you climb higher, sweeping, bird’s-eye views of the entire Kullu Valley unfold below. Around 4 km before reaching Kot, the peaks of the Pir Panjal range start to appear in the distance.
Once you arrive at Kot village, the trek officially begins. The village offers a glimpse into life in a remote Himalayan settlement.
At the entrance of the village stands the Mahuti Devta temple, which marks the starting point of the trail. The trek begins with an ascent of approximately 350 metres, followed by a relatively flat stretch passing a few houses uphill. Continue along the trail, and after about 500 metres, you will encounter another gentle climb.
After trekking for another kilometre, you enter the beautiful Borsu Forest, where wide trails and open clearings stretch out on either side.
Borsu Forest is a delight for trekkers and is among the most scenic forest landscapes you’ll encounter on this trek. The forest extends across a large area, making it an ideal and picturesque campsite for the day. Set up camp here and soak in the calm, natural surroundings.
Important Note: Himachal Tripper will arrange a pick-up from Beas Bridge, Manali at 6:00 AM. The cost of this service is to be borne by the trekkers and is ₹300 per person (plus 5% GST), one-way. Transport will be provided in non-AC vehicles. Please ensure that you pre-book your transport through the trek dashboard before arrival.
Drive Distance: 38 km | Drive Duration: 1.5 hrs | Trek Distance: 8 km | Trek Duration: 4 hrs | Drop-off time: 09:00 pm | Drop-off location: Beas Bridge, Manali
Today’s trek begins along a scenic trail enveloped by towering deodar and pine trees. Trek through this forest for about 2.5 km until the dense tree cover thins out.
From here, a semi-forest path begins, taking you along a quiet mud road lined with trees on both sides. This road sees very little vehicle traffic, except occasionally during local festivals.
Continuing ahead, you will reach a spot called Shildhar. Take a break here, drop your bags, enjoy lunch, and explore the surroundings.
In the evening, embark on a short 1.5 km walk to the Bijli Mahadev Temple. Visiting in the evening gives you the opportunity to witness a serene sunset from the summit, away from the usual crowds.
Afterwards, it’s a gentle 2 km descent from Shildhar to Karate village. From there, you will drive back to Manali on the same day via the Himachal Tripper Jungle Line Campus.
The Bijli Mahadev Temple: This temple is famous for its legendary trek near Manali. Inside, the Shiva Lingam is said to attract divine blessings in the form of lightning. According to local legend, after each lightning strike, the priest restores the Lingam using butter and sattoo, as it shatters each time. The temple is revered as a protector of the valley, enduring the force of every thunderstorm.
Important Note: Himachal Tripper will arrange your drop-off at Beas Bridge, Manali via the Himachal Tripper Jungle Line Campus. The cost of this service is ₹300 per trekker (plus 5% GST), one-way, and vehicles are non-AC. Please pre-book your transport through the trek dashboard before your journey.
Daytime temperatures range from 14°C to 18°C, and at night it can drop to 8°C to 10°C. | Presence of Snow: There is no snow during the autumn season. | Number of warm layers: 2 layers
Autumn is an excellent season for trekking to Bijli Mahadev. While autumn is often associated with fallen leaves and orange hues, the landscape remains lush and green during this time. It is only as November approaches that the scenery gradually takes on golden and orange tones.
This season is ideal for photography, as the skies are clear and the landscapes look crisp and vibrant. During this time, villagers are busy preparing for winter — storing grass for cattle and collecting firewood — offering trekkers a fascinating glimpse into local life.
For photography enthusiasts and those who want unobstructed views of the mountains, the post-monsoon period is perfect. The air is fresh, the forests are vibrant, and the overall scenery is exceptionally scenic and picturesque.
Daytime temperatures range from 14°C to 18°C, and at night, it drops to 7°C to 10°C. | Presence of snow: You might find snow during March but it will have melted by April. | No. of warm layers required: 3-4 layers
Spring is an ideal season to experience the Bijli Mahadev trek. The trail winds through dense deodar forests, which are perpetually green, but in spring, they feel especially vibrant and full of life.
From the trail, the distant snow-capped peaks of the Pir Panjal range create breathtaking views. The forest is calm and tranquil during this season, making it a peaceful and rejuvenating trek.
The combination of fresh green forests and clear vistas of snow-covered mountains makes spring a truly magical time to visit.
This season is also perfect for beginners who want to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas without facing extreme conditions.
During the day, the temperatures range from 20°C to 24°C, while at night, it cools down to 12°C to 16°C. | Presence of snow: You will not find snow on the trail. | No. of warm layers required: 2-3 layers
In summer, the trek is warm but generally pleasant, especially once you enter the dense deodar forests.
The tall trees provide ample shade, keeping the trail cool and comfortable for walking, even during the warmer months.
This season also offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the vibrant life of the mountain villages. From bustling daily activities to local traditions, trekkers can witness village life in full swing. The cool forest trails provide a welcome relief from the summer heat, making it an ideal time to enjoy both nature and local culture.
Daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 22°C, with nighttime temperatures cooling to 12°C to 14°C. | Presence of snow: You will not find snow on the trail. | No. of warm layers required: 2-3 layers (Will get colder if it rains)
During the monsoon months, the trail transforms into a lush, vibrant green paradise. The forests feel alive, and everything appears fresh and rejuvenated after the rains.
However, the trail can become slippery and slightly challenging due to wet conditions, so extra care is needed while trekking.
If you are lucky, you may get to trek under drifting clouds, with mist and fog adding a mystical charm to the surroundings. The deodar forests take on an enchanting appearance, and when the skies clear, the distant Pir Panjal range offers spectacular views.
Monsoon trekking offers a unique experience — walking through verdant forests, enjoying refreshing rain, and witnessing the mountains wrapped in mist and clouds.
Is trekking in monsoon safe?
Monsoon treks are generally safe. At Himachal Tripper, we operate only those treks during the rainy season that are safely navigable.
We closely monitor weather patterns and trail conditions every day. In unforeseen situations, we take appropriate action — whether it’s rerouting, rescheduling, or even canceling the trek if necessary. Your safety is always our top priority.
To ensure a smooth experience, we recommend:
* Arrive a day early in your pickup town to allow a buffer against unpredictable road conditions.
* Plan a buffer day after your trek before heading home. The mountains often move at their own pace, and a little extra time ensures you enjoy the journey stress-free.
Trekking in the monsoon is magical — the forests are lush, streams are full, and the trails feel alive. With a little breathing room and careful planning, you can turn a potentially stressful journey into a truly memorable adventure.
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