Lahesh Cave is a little nest of solitude situated at a height of over 3450 meters in the Dhauladhar Ranges. It is a relatively untouched piece of nature in a secluded valley 5 hours away from any other human habitation. This cave is said to be part of a larger undiscovered cave system that collapsed long ago. Today it is a popular tourist attraction that attracts people from all over. It would have been quite a difficult trek to travel in the past, but with several cafes and rest stops along the trek and a dignified trail to traverse, it has become a much more approachable location for those willing to tackle it.
A Brief History Lesson About The Lahesh Cave
The Lahesh Cave is quite a recent addition to the eco-tourism culture of Himachal Pradesh. However, the locals believe that the cave has been visited by humans long before the 21st century.
A local legend says that during the exile of the Pandavas to the Himalayas, they spent many nights at that cave and used it as a hunting outpost to camouflage themselves from wild animals. The Mahabharata says that the 5 warrior sons of King Pandu who ruled over Hastinapur(present-day Meerut) were called the Pandavas. They were sent into exile twice, the second time they spent some time in the northern mountains when it is believed that they inhabited the cave and its surrounding areas.
There is another local legend that involves the cave and it is related to the Great saint Guru Rinpoche. Guru Rinpoche or Padmasambhava, is the saint responsible for bringing Buddhism to Tibet. Texts and scriptures relating to this great saint go all the way back to the 12th century when he is described as a Tantric Buddhist Vajra master who was born and raised in medieval India. Legend has it that Lahesh Cave was the very spot where this great guru sat and meditated for years on end before attaining enlightenment.
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The Lahesh Cave Trek
The trek towards the Lahesh Caves is a journey that spans 3 days. Before, it used to be mandatory to have an experienced guide with you at all times, but now thanks to the sombre commercialisation of the route and the perfectly laid out forest trail, this trip can be carried out with just your supplies and some local directions.
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- Day 1- This journey begins at the local Mcleodganj bus stop, from that point on no vehicles can go ahead so the trek begins. From that point on it is a 9km trek towards Triund hill.
The rocky trail snakes through the hills and forests, offering breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar and Kangra Valleys. Triund will be your first proper rest stop as you will spend the night in tents. - Day 2- The second day of this trip begins with the final 5km stretch to the Lahesh caves. It is quite a steep and rocky trail, so make sure to take your time. Begin early in the morning to enjoy the views and surrounding fauna.
Once at the cave you can either choose to spend the night there or you can spend a few hours and trek back down to Triund for your night stay. - Day 3—The third day is an easy trek down towards Mcleodganj, where you can catch a bus back to the town or visit the nearby temples and waterfalls to make the most of the trip.
- Day 1- This journey begins at the local Mcleodganj bus stop, from that point on no vehicles can go ahead so the trek begins. From that point on it is a 9km trek towards Triund hill.
Initial Travel And Costs For The Lahesh Cave Trek
The peak season and the best time to visit the caves would be any time between May and November depending on the weather conditions. The summer months are the most ideal for trekking while some prefer to visit during the later end of the year to witness the beautiful white snow-covered peaks and pastures.
The initial costs from Dharamkhot to Mcleodganj mainly go towards the taxi drive which can be arranged locally for about 3000Rs. Once you are there, the main costs go towards the trek guide, which would be recommended,.
The cost of renting a tent and a short class to learn how to put it up, and after some other miscellaneous purchases, you’re looking at a total cost of about 5000Rs. However, if you plan to stay overnight at the caves, that will be more expensive and closer to 9000Rs per head.
Suggested Read: Triund Trek
Places To Visit Around The Lahesh Caves
The Lahesh Caves are quite a spectacle to behold and visit, but any journey to Lahesh would be incomplete without exploring the surrounding towns and locations to find some gems you will not regret taking time out for. Here is a list of a few such breathtaking locations.
Bhagsu Waterfall
The Bhagsu Waterfall is arguably one of Dharamshala’s most iconic and popular locations. Tourists looking to connect with nature at its rawest and escape the hustle of the larger metropolitan cities will surely appreciate this marvel of mother nature. With water cascading down the side of a hill from a height of over 30 feet, the waterfall can be seen in all its brunt and glory during the monsoon season when water levels are at their highest.
The Bhagsu Waterfall is located on the main road connecting the towns of Mcleodganj and Dharamshala, making it ideal for picnicking with family and loved ones. The waterfall starts at the base of the Dhauladhar ranges and flows down through the valley, passing the famous Bhagsunath Temple before reaching its fall point. Although the water at the waterfall’s base is too cold for the human body to handle, the trek up to the waterfall is a divine experience.
Bhagsunath Temple
Nestled in a forest surrounded by streams and waterfalls, the Bhagsunath Temple at Mcleodganj is one of the most ancient structures in the area. With the Bhagsu Falls situated right behind and the Kotwali bazaar leading up to it, this temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. The surrounding Hindu and Gorkha communities highly revere this temple.
The two pools surrounding the temple, with their ice-cold water, are considered sacred to the temple. Legend has it that Lord Shiva once stopped to bathe and rest at that very spot on his trek up to his cave in the Himalayas. The water in those pools is said to have healing powers that grant a long and healthy life to anyone who takes a dip in it. The temple hours are 5:00 AM—9:00 PM. A strict dress code is also imposed for all who want to enter the temple premises.
Further Read: Best Places To Visit In Mcledodganj
Lahesh caves, its surrounding trails, forests, and the perfect backdrop of the Himalayas make for a breathtaking trek that is guaranteed to leave you with more than a few memories. So plan your trip to Mcleodganj today for the journey of a lifetime.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lahesh Caves
Is the trek to Lahesh Caves Dangerous?
No, it isn’t. It is a highly commercialised route that has been looked over by the local government before opening it to the general public and local guides can be hired to guide you along the way.
Are we allowed to stay overnight at the caves?
Yes, you are allowed to stay overnight at the caves although you will charged extra by the guides for the tents and food which will be prepared and setup by them.
How many rest stops and cafes are available on the trek to Lahesh caves?
There are 6 rest stops and cafes on the way to the caves and they are all equipped to offer nourishment. The last one of these is at Triund Hill.
What kind of clothes will be best suited for this trek?
Well being up in the mountains it will get quite cold during the night so it is advised to carry sweaters, jackets and general cold wear for this trek. Hiking boots are also advisable.
Have there been any wild animal attacks on this trek?
No, this being quite a frequent trek for visitors, animals usually stay away from it, but you will be lucky to spot some of them in the forest.
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