Exploring Yulla Kanda: A Guide to the World's Highest Krishna Temple

The Mystical Story of Yulla Kanda

The history of Yulla Kanda is deeply rooted in the Mahabharata.

• The Pandavas’ Exile: Local legend says the Pandavas built this sacred lake and the Krishna temple during their Agyatvas (exile).
• The Floating Cap Ritual: This is the trek's most famous tradition. Devotees float a traditional Kinnauri Topi (cap) upside down in the lake. It is believed that if the cap floats to the other side without sinking, your wishes will come true and the coming year will be prosperous.
• The Temple: Sitting at 3,895 meters (12,778 ft), it is a humble stone structure that radiates peace, far removed from the bells and crowds of city temples.

Travel Itineraries

Option 1: From Delhi (5 Days / 4 Nights)

• Day 0: Overnight Volvo bus from Delhi (Kashmiri Gate/Majnu ka Tila) to Shimla or Tapri.
• Day 1: Arrive at Tapri. Take a local taxi or bus to Yulla Khas Village (Base village). Stay in a local homestay to acclimatize.
• Day 2: Trek from Yulla Khas to the Base Camp (approx. 10 km). Camp under the stars.
• Day 3: Early morning summit to Yulla Kanda Lake & Temple (2 km steep climb). Spend time at the lake and descend back to Yulla Khas.
• Day 4: Departure from Yulla Khas to Shimla/Delhi.

Option 2: From Chandigarh (4 Days / 3 Nights)

• Day 1: Drive from Chandigarh to Yulla Khas (approx. 10–11 hours via Shimla and Rampur). Overnight at a homestay.
• Day 2: Trek from Yulla Khas to Base Camp.
• Day 3: Summit to Yulla Kanda Lake and descend all the way back to the village.
• Day 4: Drive back to Chandigarh.

Trekking, Stay, and Food

• The Trek: The trail starts from Yulla Khas. It’s a mix of dense oak and pine forests, opening into vast alpine meadows. The final 2 km to the lake is a steep, heart-pumping ascent.
• Stay:
  • In the Village: Highly recommended to stay in Local Homestays (approx. ₹1,200–₹1,500). It’s the best way to experience Kinnauri hospitality.
  • On the Trek: Camping in alpine tents at the meadows. Most local guides provide these.
• Food: Expect simple, soul-warming Himachali meals—Dal, Chawal, Sabzi, and Roti. Don’t forget to try the local tea and, if in season, fresh Kinnauri Apples.

Essential Trip Details

Best Time to Visit

May to June (Lush green) or Sept to mid-Oct (Clear views)

Difficulty Level

Moderate. Accessible for beginners with basic fitness, but the altitude can be challenging.

Max Altitude

3,895 meters / 12,778 feet

Trek Distance

~14–16 km (Round trip)

Mobile Network

BSNL works intermittently in the village; zero signal on the trek.

Safety Note: Always check the weather before heading out, as Kinnaur is prone to landslides during peak monsoon (July–August).