Yulla Kanda: Majestic World’s Highest Krishna Temple

When it comes to trekking in Himachal, names like Hampta Pass, Kheerganga, and Triund often dominate the list. But tucked away in the Kullu district lies a hidden spiritual and scenic gem — Yulla Kanda Lake. This lesser-known alpine lake, perched at an altitude of 3,800 meters, is considered one of the holiest lakes in Himachal and is believed to be the abode of Lord Krishna. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and meadows carpeted with wildflowers, Yulla Kanda is more than just a trek; it’s an experience of nature, mythology, and tranquility.

If you are planning to visit from Delhi, here’s everything you need to know — how to reach, trek details, places to stay, and food options.

How to Reach Yulla Kanda from Delhi

Reaching Yulla Kanda involves a combination of road and trek, and it begins with getting to Phancha village, the trek’s base point.

By Train

Delhi is well-connected to Shimla and Rampur (nearest rail access points). However, since Shimla’s railway is a narrow-gauge toy train line, most people combine train + road travel.

1. Delhi → Kalka (By Train)
   • Board the Kalka Shatabdi Express (12005) from New Delhi Railway Station. Departure around 7:40 AM, reaching Kalka by 11:45 AM.
   • Alternatively, you can take Himachal Express (14553) at night, reaching Kalka early morning.
2. Kalka → Shimla (By Toy Train or Taxi)
   • Take the world-famous Kalka–Shimla Toy Train (UNESCO Heritage). The scenic ride takes around 5–6 hrs.
   • If short on time, hire a taxi from Kalka to Shimla (takes 3 hrs).
3. Shimla → Rampur → Nirmand → Phancha (By Road)
   • From Shimla, drive towards Rampur (120 km, ~5 hrs).
   • Continue towards Nirmand and then Phancha village (~130 km, 4–5 hrs).
   • Total travel time Shimla to Phancha: 8–9 hrs by road.

By Road (Direct)

If you prefer road travel all the way:

• Take an overnight Volvo bus from Delhi to Rampur/Shimla (book via HRTC or private operators).
• From Shimla or Rampur, hire a cab or local bus to Nirmand → Phancha village.
• Delhi to Phancha directly by road: ~560 km, 14–15 hrs.

The Trek – Yulla Kanda

The trek begins from Phancha village (2,200 m), a quaint Himachali settlement.

• Trek Distance: 10-12 km one way
• Trek Time: 6-7 hrs (moderate difficulty)
• Altitude: Yulla Kanda Lake (3,800 m)

The trail passes through:

• Dense pine and deodar forests
• Verdant meadows (Bugyals)
• Gradual rocky ascents with panoramic views of the Great Himalayan ranges

At the top, the crystal-clear Yulla Kanda Lake reflects the surrounding peaks, creating a surreal sight. Locals believe Lord Krishna spent time here, and you will find a small temple dedicated to him.

Where to Stay

Since Yulla Kanda is not a commercial trek, you won’t find hotels near the lake. Accommodation options are limited but unique:

1. Camping at Yulla Kanda Lake
   • Carry your own tent or book with local trek operators.
   • The experience of camping beside the holy lake under a star-lit sky is unforgettable.
2. Homestays in Phancha Village
   • Before or after the trek, you can stay in cozy homestays at Phancha.
   • Price: ₹800–₹1,500 per night for 2 adults (including meals).
3. Hotels in Rampur or Nirmand
   • If you want more comfort, stay in Rampur before heading to Phancha.
   • Options like Hotel Bushehar Regency (₹2,000–₹3,000 per night) are available.

Where to Eat

Food options are simple, mostly Himachali cuisine.

• Phancha Village Homestays – Meals are usually included (dal, rice, rajma, chapati, local vegetables).
• Trek Food – Carry dry snacks, energy bars, and ready-to-eat meals.
• Rampur/Nirmand – A few local dhabas and restaurants serve North Indian, Tibetan, and Himachali dishes.

Tip: Don’t expect fancy cafés like in Manali or Kasol; the charm here is in simplicity.

Best Time to Visit

• May to October is ideal.
• Avoid winters as the trek route is snow-covered and inaccessible.
• Monsoon (July–August) makes the valley lush green, but trails can be slippery.

Nearby Attractions

If you have extra time, you can also explore:

• Jalori Pass (3,120 m) – Just 2 hrs from Nirmand, perfect for a short hike.
• Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) – A UNESCO site with rare flora & fauna.
• Rampur Bushahr – A historic town with old palaces and temples.

Yulla Kanda Trek – 5 Days Itinerary from Delhi

Day 1: Delhi → Kalka → Shimla → Rampur/Nirmand

• Evening (Previous Day):
  • Take Kalka Shatabdi Express (12005) from New Delhi (7:40 PM) → Kalka (11:45 PM)
  • Overnight in Kalka or continue directly to Shimla.
• Morning:
  • From Kalka, take a taxi or bus to Shimla (3 hrs).
  • Breakfast in Shimla.
• Afternoon:
  • Drive Shimla → Rampur Bushahr (~120 km / 5 hrs).
  • Continue to Nirmand village (2 hrs extra) if possible.
• Stay:
  • Hotel Bushehar Regency in Rampur (₹2,000–₹3,000 per night)
  • Or homestay in Nirmand (₹1,500–₹2,000 with meals).

Day 2: Rampur/Nirmand → Phancha Village (Trek Base)

• Morning:
  • After breakfast, drive to Phancha village (2–3 hrs).
  • Phancha is the last road head before the trek.
• Afternoon:
  • Explore Phancha village – apple orchards, local temples, and Himachali culture.
  • Meet locals/trek guides if needed.
• Stay:
  • Cozy homestay in Phancha (₹800–₹1,500 per night per room with meals).

Day 3: Phancha → Yulla Kanda Trek → Camping

• Trek Begins:
  • Early breakfast, start trek from Phancha (~6–7 km, 4–5 hrs).
  • Trail passes through pine forests, bugyals, and rocky climbs.
• By Afternoon:
  • Reach Yulla Kanda Lake (3,800 m).
  • Enjoy views of snow peaks, the holy Krishna temple, and peaceful meadows.
• Evening:
  • Set up camp beside the lake.
  • Enjoy bonfire-style dinner (self-cooked or with trek operator).
• Stay:
  • Camping at Yulla Kanda Lake (₹2,500–₹3,000 per tent with meals for 2–3 people).

Day 4: Yulla Kanda → Phancha → Rampur

• Morning:
  • Sunrise at Yulla Kanda — peaceful meditation & photography.
  • Trek back down to Phancha village (3–4 hrs).
• Afternoon:
  • Have lunch at a Phancha homestay.
  • Drive back to Rampur (~3–4 hrs).
• Stay:
  • Hotel Bushehar Regency, Rampur (₹2,000–₹3,000)
  • Or homestay in Nirmand (₹1,500).

Day 5: Rampur → Shimla → Delhi

• Morning:
  • Drive Rampur → Shimla (~5 hrs).
  • Breakfast on the way.
• Afternoon:
  • Board bus/taxi to Kalka.
  • Catch Kalka Shatabdi Express (12006) at 5:45 PM → Delhi (9:55 PM).
• Night:
  • Arrive back in Delhi.

Cost Estimate (for 2 Adults + 1 Kid, 5 Days)

Final Thoughts

The Yulla Kanda Trek is a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and raw Himalayan beauty. Unlike crowded treks, here you’ll find solitude, mythological significance, and untouched nature. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a spiritual traveler, or simply someone looking for peace away from city chaos, Yulla Kanda offers it all.

So next time you plan a trip from Delhi, skip the usual Manali or Kasol, and embark on this offbeat journey to the mystical Yulla Kanda Lake.