Nag Dal. Trek to a Sacred Himalayan Lake (Part 1)

Every year during the festival of Janmashtami, pilgrims cross the treacherous Indrahar Pass (4,300m) to reach Lake Nag Dal — a sacred glacial lake hidden deep in the Himalayas. With zero high-altitude trekking experience, I packed a bag, grabbed my camera, and joined them. In Part 1: starting from Bhagsu, sneaking past a misty checkpoint, a surprise mountain dog guide, surviving a sudden downpour under a rock shelter, and spending the night at Lahesh Cave before the summit push. Route: Bhagsu → Triund → Laka Glacier → Lahesh Cave. Part 2 with the 4:00 AM pass crossing and the ritual at the holy lake is coming soon — subscribe so you don't miss it!