Darcha Waterfall- A place for nature lovers

1. Timings

Darcha Waterfall is accessible 24/7. However, it is recommended to visit during daylight hours (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM) for safety and better views.

2. Distance

• From Keylong: 35 km
• From Manali: 140 km
• From Leh: 350 km Darcha village is a common stop for travelers heading towards Leh.

3. Ideal Season to Visit

The best time to visit Darcha Waterfall is from June to September, when the weather is pleasant and the water flow is at its peak due to the monsoon. During the winter months, heavy snowfall may make the roads to Darcha inaccessible.

4. How to Get There

• By Road: The waterfall is located along the Manali-Leh Highway (NH3). You can drive from Manali, Keylong, or Leh.
• By Bus: HRTC buses ply the Manali-Leh route, stopping at Darcha village.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (Manali), located about 190 km away.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is at Joginder Nagar, about 250 km away.

5. Parking

There is limited parking space near the waterfall, especially during peak tourist season. Parking is generally free, though parking availability may vary depending on crowd size.

6. Height

Darcha Waterfall is around 50 meters (164 feet) tall, offering a spectacular cascading view amidst the rugged terrain of the Lahaul Valley.

7. Food Options

There are small dhabas and roadside eateries in Darcha village, serving basic meals such as Maggi, parathas, and tea. It’s advisable to carry your own snacks and water if you're planning to stay for a long period.

8. Stay

• Nearby Accommodations: There are a few basic guesthouses and homestays in Darcha village and Jispa, which is about 10 km away. For more comfortable options, Keylong has better hotels.
• Camping: Darcha is a popular spot for trekkers and motorcyclists, so you can also opt for camping around the area.

9. Activities

• Trekking: Darcha is the starting point for many treks, including the famous Darcha-Padum trek.
• Photography: The stunning backdrop of snow-capped peaks and the waterfall itself makes it a paradise for photography.
• Adventure: Darcha is a common stop for bikers on the Manali-Leh route.
• Sightseeing: The river running through Darcha village adds to the scenic beauty of the area.

10. Tips

• Altitude: Darcha is located at an altitude of 3,300 meters (10,826 feet), so take precautions for altitude sickness.
• Clothing: Even in summer, the weather can get cold, so carry warm clothes.
• Waterproof Gear: If you're visiting during monsoon, bring waterproof gear as the waterfall's spray can get you wet.
• Travel Insurance: It’s advisable to have travel insurance, especially when traveling in high-altitude areas like Darcha.

11. Nearby Attractions

• Baralacha La: A high mountain pass located about 40 km from Darcha.
• Jispa Village: A serene village along the Bhaga River, located about 10 km from Darcha.
• Suraj Tal: A beautiful lake situated near the Baralacha Pass, around 50 km from Darcha.
• Keylong: The district headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti, located 35 km from Darcha, offering a variety of attractions such as monasteries.

12. Entry Charges

There are no entry fees to visit Darcha Waterfall. It's a natural attraction open to all.