Devotees brave –7°C to perform bhajans at world’s highest Krishna temple in Himachal’s Yulla Kanda

New Delhi: In a rare and demanding display of faith, devotees recently undertook a two-day winter trek to the Shri Krishna Temple at Yulla Kanda in Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district, braving deep snow and temperatures dipping to around –7°C. Located at nearly 3,895 metres in the remote Rora Valley, the shrine is believed to be the world’s highest Krishna temple. Usually accessed only during warmer months, the winter journey transformed the trek into an act of devotion rather than travel.

The pilgrims reached the snowbound temple to perform bhajans beside the sacred Yulla Kanda Lake, a site linked to legends of the Pandavas. Their journey offered a rare winter glimpse of the region, highlighting both the spiritual pull of the landscape and the serious risks involved in attempting access during extreme weather. Here are all the details you need to know.

Travel guide to Yulla Kanda Krishna Temple

1. A rare winter pilgrimage at Yulla Kanda

Yulla Kanda Lake and the adjoining Krishna Temple are typically visited between May and October, when trekking conditions are relatively stable. Winter access is considered extremely risky due to heavy snowfall, sub-zero temperatures and closed routes.

The recent journey by devotees stands out because winter treks to the shrine are uncommon and strongly discouraged. With the lake frozen and trails buried under snow, the pilgrimage required not just physical endurance but careful planning and local support, turning the act of singing bhajans into a powerful expression of belief.

2. Location of Krishna Temple

Yulla Kanda Lake and the Krishna Temple are located at 13,000 feet near Yulla village, roughly 20 km from Reckong Peo, the district headquarters. Unlike popular Himalayan treks such as Triund, Hampta Pass or Kheerganga, Yulla Kanda remains relatively unexplored, adding to its raw and remote character.

Built in traditional Himachali architectural style, it merges seamlessly with its surroundings. During warmer months, pilgrims visit especially around Janmashtami, when the trek becomes a sacred journey rather than just an adventure.

Key considerations for a trek in December

While the snow-covered shrine looks visually stunning in December, this seasonal beauty comes with strict limitations. The trekking route to Yulla Kanda Lake and the Krishna Temple remains inaccessible from November to April due to heavy snowfall and extreme conditions. Here are the key considerations for a trek during December

1. Weather

Expect heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures and possible blizzards. Conditions can change rapidly, making navigation difficult.

2. Difficulty level

Winter trekking here is significantly harder than in other seasons. Only those with prior winter trekking experience should even consider the terrain.

3. Gear requirements

Warm layers, waterproof clothing, insulated boots, microspikes or crampons, and extreme cold-rated sleeping bags are essential. Oxygen support may be required.

4. Guides and local support

An experienced local guide familiar with winter routes is crucial for safety. Independent trekking is strongly discouraged.

5. Accessibility

Road conditions to Tapri or Yulla Khas Village, the starting points, can be unpredictable. Always check updates before travel.

What Rora Valley offers in December

Although the Yulla Kanda trek itself remains closed, parts of the Rora Valley continue to attract interest for limited, weather-dependent experiences.

1. Snow photography

Frozen waterfalls, snow-covered peaks and stark winter landscapes make the region visually striking.

2. Short nature walks

Low-altitude walks near villages may be possible depending on snowfall.

3. Quiet meditation

The valley’s isolation offers rare solitude, ideal for reflection.

4. Scenic drives

Sections of the Hindustan-Tibet Highway (NH-22) often remain open, offering views of the Sutlej River and surrounding mountains.

Sample winter-adapted itinerary for experienced trekkers

Day 1: Delhi to Yulla Khas Village

Overnight travel to Tapri or Yulla Khas (around 2,985 metres) for acclimatisation.

Day 2: Acclimatisation and village exploration

Rest, explore the Kinnauri culture, prepare gear and take short walks to adjust to the altitude.

Day 3: Yulla Khas to Yulla base camp

A demanding 10 km trek through snow-covered forests to the base camp at around 3,500 metres, with overnight camping.

Day 4: Yulla Kanda Lake and temple

Early morning ascent to the lake and temple at 3,895 metres for sunrise views, followed by descent.

Day 5: Return journey

Trek back to Yulla Khas and drive towards Delhi.

How to reach Yulla Kanda (summer access only)

By air

Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti), approximately 235 km away.

By rail

Kalka Railway Station, around 270 km away, with onward road travel.

By road

Reckong Peo is well connected to Shimla, Chandigarh and Delhi. Yulla village serves as the trek base.

Best time to visit

• May to June brings green meadows and moderate temperatures.
• July to September offers enhanced greenery with occasional rain.
• October features clear skies before snowfall begins.

The winter bhajan trek to Yulla Kanda is a powerful reminder that faith often journeys where comfort cannot. While the frozen shrine offers a hauntingly beautiful sight, it also underscores the region’s unforgiving nature, where devotion must always be balanced with caution, respect and preparedness.