If you are planning a winter adventure to the Dhauladhars this week, you need to hit the pause button and read this first. The Kangra district administration has just dropped a major update regarding Kangra trekking ban on activities, and it directly affects popular routes like Triund, Kareri Lake, and Adi Himani Chamunda.
In a move to prioritize tourist safety amidst unpredictable winter weather, a strict ban has been imposed on high-altitude trekking. Here is everything you need to know to stay safe and compliant.
Trekking Banned Above 3,000 Meters in Kangra, Himachal Pragesh
Effectively immediately, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) of Kangra has imposed a complete ban on all trekking activities above 3,000 meters (approx. 9,800 feet). Check it here on authority website.
Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa confirmed the order, citing the increasing risks associated with high-altitude ventures during the peak winter season. The upper reaches of the Himalayas are currently prone to:
- Sudden snowstorms.
- Drastic drops in temperature.
- Loss of visibility, leading to trekkers getting stranded.
The “Why” Matters: This isn’t just red tape. Just last week, four trekkers from Delhi lost their way near the Dhauladhar range while heading to Triund. They were fortunate to be rescued by police teams, but the administration is no longer taking chances with human lives.
New Rules for Popular Routes (Triund, Kareri & More)
While the “above 3,000m” rule is a blanket ban, the administration knows that lower-altitude treks are still huge draws. For routes that sit on the borderline or are highly popular, strict new regulations are now in place.
If you are eyeing Kareri Lake, Triund, or Adi Himani Chamunda, you cannot just pack your bag and go anymore.
1. Mandatory Police Permission
You must now obtain prior permission from the Superintendent of Police (SP), Kangra before starting your trek on these specific routes.
Action Plan: Do not head to the trailhead without this paperwork. You will likely be turned back at checkpoints.
2. The “Weather Alert” Clause
This is a critical “kill switch” for your plans. Even if you have permission, it becomes automatically void if the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Shimla issues a weather warning or alert.
Pro Tip: Check the daily IMD forecast before you lace up your boots. If there’s a Yellow or Orange alert, your trek is legally cancelled.
3. Exemptions
The only groups allowed to bypass these restrictions are professional agencies involved in disaster management:
- NDRF (National Disaster Response Force)
- SDRF (State Disaster Response Force)
- Mountaineering Institute, McLeodganj
- Police Search and Rescue Teams
At a Glance: Current Trekking Status in Kangra
To make this easy to digest, here is a breakdown of the current status for major activities:
| Activity / Route | Current Status | Requirement |
| Treks > 3,000m | BANNED | No entry allowed. |
| Triund Trek | RESTRICTED | Mandatory: Permission from SP Kangra office. |
| Kareri Lake | RESTRICTED | Mandatory: Permission from SP Kangra office. |
| Adi Himani Chamunda | RESTRICTED | Mandatory: Permission from SP Kangra office. |
| Paragliding | OPEN | Subject to daily wind/weather conditions. |
Consequences for Violators
The administration is not taking violations lightly. Deputy Commissioner Bairwa has instructed the District Tourism Officer to ensure all hotels and homestays inform their guests about these rules.
If you are caught violating these orders, you face legal action under:
- Disaster Management Act, 2005 (Sections 51 to 60)
- Relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (formerly IPC) regarding disobedience to public servant orders.
A Traveler’s Guide: How to Adapt Your Plans for Trekking
As travel enthusiasts, we understand it is frustrating when plans get cancelled. However, the mountains command respect, especially in January. Here is how you can still enjoy Kangra safely:
- Stick to Lower Altitudes: Explore the beautiful villages around Dharamshala, Palampur, and Bir Billing that are well below the danger line.
- Visit Cultural Sites: Use this time to visit the Kangra Fort, Masroor Rock Cut Temples, or the Norbulingka Institute. Meanwhile in the wedding season you can enjoy the famous Kangri Dham, I have written a full guide on enjoying Kangri Dham in himachal. Check it now.
- Respect the Locals: Local guides and hotel owners are legally bound to warn you. Please do not pressure them to take you on banned routes; it puts their livelihood at risk.
Final Word: The mountains will always be there. The goal of every trek should be to return home safely to tell the story. Stay safe, follow the guidelines, and enjoy the winter magic of Himachal responsibly!
Is the Triund trek open for tourists right now?
The Triund trek is currently restricted. You are allowed to trek only if you have obtained mandatory prior permission from the Superintendent of Police (SP) in Kangra. Without this permit, entry is strictly denied.
How do I get permission for trekking in Kangra/Dharamshala?
You must visit the SP Office in Kangra (Dharamshala) to apply for permission. This typically involves submitting your ID proof and itinerary in person, as there is currently no centralized online portal for this specific permit.
What is the trekking ban in Himachal Pradesh for 2026?
The Kangra district administration has completely banned all trekking activities above 3,000 meters. For popular routes below this height (like Triund and Kareri), you now need specific police permission to enter.
Is the Kareri Lake trek closed in January?
Kareri Lake falls under the restricted high-altitude category. While not “permanently” closed, you strictly need police permission to go. If the weather forecast shows snow or rain, permission will be denied or revoked immediately.
Can I trek if there is a weather alert in Himachal?
All trekking permissions become automatically void if the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues a Yellow, Orange, or Red alert. You must stay in safe, lower-altitude areas during these times.
What happens if I am caught trekking without permission?
Trekking without permission is a violation of the Disaster Management Act. You can face legal action, heavy fines, and police booking for endangering your life and disobeying district orders.
Is it safe to visit McLeodganj and Dharamshala in winter?
Yes, it is safe to visit the main towns of McLeodganj and Dharamshala for sightseeing. The danger and restrictions apply specifically to trekking routes and upper mountain reaches, not the main market areas or hotels.
Why has trekking been banned in Kangra?
The ban was imposed to prevent loss of life after recent incidents where tourists were stranded in snowstorms. Sudden weather changes in winter make high-altitude routes above 3,000m life-threateningly dangerous.
Are there any exemptions to the trekking ban?
The only exemptions are for professional rescue teams like the NDRF, SDRF, and Police, or trainees from the Mountaineering Institute. Regular tourists and solo trekkers have no special exemptions.
When is the best time to trek in Triund without restrictions?
The best time is typically March to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is stable, snow melts, and restrictions are usually lifted or relaxed compared to the peak winter season.
