We drive through the towns of Chamba, Uttarkashi, Bhatwari to reach Barsu. A number of temples and ashrams are situated in Uttarkashi. The famous Nehru Institute of Mountaineering is also based here. The road to Barsu diverges from near Bhatwari. The final 30 km is an uphill drive. Barsu is a quaint little village with a reservoir and a GMVN guesthouse. This village is a birder's paradise with many ground birds easily sighted. It is very easy to spot a black eagle on this trek.
We follow the trail past the reservoir and after the village enter a forest. Trees like oak, rhododendron, walnut and maple are most common here. One can find walnuts lying on the trail during autumn. In spring the red rhododendrons provide a colorful touch to the forest hues. We pitch tents about 5 km above Barsu village near Barnala Tal and spent the night here. There is a vast meadow at Barnala and one can enjoy the views of Himalayan peaks as well.
