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Jeep Safari

Day 2 : Satrundi to Killar

Route: Sathrudi, Sach Pass, Bagotu, Dunai, Killar
Distance Covered: 70 K.M.

Satrundi to Sach Pass (4414m):

Four kilometers ascent to Sach pass is undertaken early morning from Satrundi. Normally, pass is not crossed in the afternoon. Beyond Satrundi, the region remains under snow almost throughout the year though the path is clear of snow in post-monsoon months. There is small temple at the top of the pass. Travellers offer a piece of red cloth and tie it to the trishuls (trident) affixed at the temple. Usually they also tie a piece of cloth on their wrist or stick it in their garments for the rest of the journey. Teashops function at the top for about three months. They serve tea, boiled spicy black grams, noodles, biscuits and light snacks.

Sach Pass to Bagotu (3600M):

The descent of eight kilometers to Bagotu is tough. Immediately below the pass is an open space known as the Bhoot (demon) ground (ground full of ice with a Glacier is ideal for ice skating and ice skiing). There is a heavy rock lying on one side of the ground, which is said to represent a Rakshas (demon). People believe that before the pass opens for travel the goddess turns the demon into rock to avoid any harm to travelers. When the pass closes she brings him to life to serve her. In support of this belief, it is argued that every year this rock changes its position.Nearly four hours' descent takes one to Bagotu. Bagotu too was the base camp just as Satrundi on the other side of the pass when there was no road. It is an open space surrounded by very high cliffs and glaciers. There are few dhaba, prefabricated structure and a couple of tents.

Bagotu to Killar (2591M):

Killar is at about twenty kilometers from Bagotu. There is steep descent from Bagotu upto Dunai at a distance of five kilometers. After Dunai (3049 m) journey becomes less arduous. Killar is located along the Chenab river. The river is mentioned in Rig Veda as Asikni and Akesines is considered to be the Greek version of the Rig Veda name. Killar is the administrative headquarter of the valley. In comparison to other places in the valley, Killar is a small town buzzing with life. The matchbox-shaped houses packed together on the green mountain ranges make a striking picture. Mahlu nallah is the gateway to Killar. Killar has a temple of Dehant Nag.

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