Pin Parvati Pass Trek

Himalayan Trekking

Difficult

Pin Parvati Pass Trek

 
 
 
 

 

Max Altitude
 11 Days
 110 Km
 Himachal
 India
 

Overview

Trek Name: Pin Parvati Pass Trek

Days: 11

Adventure Type: Trekking

Base Camp: Manali

Season:Monsoon |

Month:July | August |

Country: India

Altitude: 17500 Ft.

Grade: Challenging

Rail Head: Chandigarh is the nearest rail head to the base camp

Stay: Camping (Twin sharing) & Hotel/Guesthouse (Separate for male & Female)

Food: Meals while on trek & at Kalga guesthouse

Location: Himachal Pradesh

Distance: 110 Km.

Trail Type: Cross over trail | Start in one valley, traverse the pass, and ends in another valley.

AirPort: Bhuntar, which is 52 km away from Manali

Highlights:

  • Services Manali to Manali | Included Transport.

Who Can Participate

  • Age Requirement:
    • Minimum 18 years
  • Experience of at least two high-altitude trek (4,500m- 5,000m) is required. First-timers are advised to avoid this trek.
  • Fitness Criteria:
    • The trekker should have sufficient stamina to cover 6 km of distance by jogging in 30 minutes without stress or 10 km of distance in 60 minutes without stress
    • If the trekker prefers cycling he/she should be able to cycle 25 km of distance in 65 minutes.
  • Trekkers must be able to carry a 10-15 kg backpack, as off-load options are not recommended.
  • If a trekker’s BMI is more or less than the normal range (18-26), please consult our Trek Coordinator before booking.
  •  

Itinerary

Day-1: Manali to Barshaini and trek to Kalga

  • Altitude(Kalga): 2300 m/ 7600 ft.
  • Drive Distance(Manali to Barshaini): 4-5 hrs.
  • Trek Distance( Barshaini to Kalga): 1 km | 1/2 hr.

Day-2: Kalga to Kheerganga

  • Altitude(Kheerganga): 2,800m/ 9,200ft.
  • Trek Distance: 10 km | 6-7 hrs.

Day-3: Kheerganga to Tunda Bhuj

  • Altitude(Tunda Bhuj): 3,350 m/ 11,000 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 13 km | 7-8 hrs.

Day-4: Tunda Bhuj to Thakur Kuan

  • Altitude(Thakur Kuan): 3,550 m/ 11,650 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 11 km | 6-7 hrs.

Day-5: Thakur Kuan to Odi Thach

  • Altitude(Odi Thatch): 3,800m/ 12,400ft.
  • Trek Distance: 9 km | 5-6hrs.

Day-6: Odi Thach to Mantalai Lake

  • Altitude(Mantalai): 4,150 m/ 13,600 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 12 km | 7-8 hrs.

Day-7: Mantalai Lake to Summit Camp

  • Altiude(Summit Camp): 4,950 m/ 16,300 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 11 km | 7-8 hrs.

Day-8: Summit Camp to Pin Parvati Pass to Pin base/ Bedu Thatch

  • Altitude: Pin Parvati Pass 5,300 m/ 17,450ft | PinBase( Bedu Thatch): 4,450m/ 14,600ft.
  • Trek Distance:15 km | 10-12 hrs.

Day-9: Pin Base to Tiya

  • Altitude(Tiya): 3,950 m/ 13,000 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 12 km | 5-6 hrs.

Day-10: Tiya to Mud Drive to Kaza

  • Altitude: Mud 3,750 m/ 12,500 ft | Kaza 3,650 m/ 12,000 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 12 km | 4-5 hrs.
  • Drive Distance(Mud – Kaza): 50 km drive 2 hrs.

Day-11: Kaza to Manali

  • Drive Distance(Kaza- Manali): 200 km | 9-10 hrs.
Note:
  • Keep a buffer day in your travel plan.
  • If buffer day is not used in the travel then it can be used to Explore Manali.
  • Distance, Altitude, and Trekking hours are approximate and rounded off.
  • Keep the original and copy of ID proof handy.
  • Come one day early if planning to come by flight. 

Manali to Barshaini and trek to Kalga

  • Altitude(Kalga): 2300 m/ 7600 ft.
  • Drive Distance(Manali to Barshaini): 4-5 hrs.
  • Trek Distance( Barshaini to Kalga): 1 km | 1/2 hr.
  • Lunch at Manikaran (Stoppage for 1 hr).
  • Leave Manali at 10 am.
  • Bring left luggage separately so that without wasting time we will leave Manali on time.
  • Networks are available at Kalga.
  • Some parts of the trek through apple orchid.
  • Stay in-home stay.

The adventurous journey of the trek will make a pleasurable trace when you reach Manali by 10 am in the morning and will leave for Barsheni Village which is surrounded by thick pine forest and green pastureland. Then further you will move to Kalga village which is a 1/2 hr trek from Barshaini. We will be taking a stop for lunch at Manikaran Gurudwara where you can visit the hot springs in the nearby premises. Hot langar is served at the gurudwara which you definitely need to try. After having our lunch we'll head towards Barshaini from where we have a little trekking to do towards Kalga. Please note that there is a network available at Kalga and your accommodation will be in a guest house.

Kalga to Kheerganga

  • Altitude(Kheerganga): 2,800m/ 9,200ft.
  • Trek Distance: 10 km | 6-7 hrs.
  • Altitude Gain: 500m/ 1,650ft.
  • Stay in tents/ local rest houses.
  • No Network available.
  • Hot water spring at Kheerganga.
  • Trek along with Parvati River.
  • Will get many Maggi points on the way.
  • Mixed forest of Pine, Oak, Horse chestnut, and Wall-nut.
  • Less steep ascent, more gradual ascent.

On the second day you will move to the long trail and continue from Kalga to move ahead and cross the bridge from here you can see River Parvati. Pin Parvati Pass Trek is a very enthralling experience to have fun while trekking and enjoy the enormous landscape view very closely. The trail goes through thick woodland cover and involves a sheer ascend of over 30 minutes.

The climb goes on till you arrive at a point from where it takes a rational V turn and you can see the restroom at your left. From here it takes another 10 minutes of walk up to a tending pastureland where Khirganga is. The last elongated side engrosses a long climb through a pine woodland area and you will come across a beautiful waterfall. You will also come across a maggie point where you can stop for some refreshment. The entire trail is less of a steep ascent and more of a gradual ascent which is a mixture of Pine, Oak, Horse chestnut and Walnut trees. Kalga to Khirganga is a 10km trek that takes approximately 6-7 hours. After reaching Khirganga your accommodation will be in tents.

Kheerganga to Tunda Bhuj

  • Altitude(Tunda Bhuj): 3,350 m/ 11,000 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 13 km | 7-8 hrs.
  • Altitude Gain: 550 m/ 1,800 ft.
  • Camp setup takes time due to the erratic availability of water, be patient.
  • Gradual ascent but tiring.
  • 3 small streams with small bridges be careful.
  • No shops on the way.
  • Last day of the forest.

Today's trek will start for Tunda-Bhuj which is a steady climb out and from there you can view the Parvati River coming down from the mountain's left side. The track will move through long meadowland and the chirping of birds will give you gleaming happiness. The road from Khirganga is the first stream crossing starting with a constant ascent for about 20 minutes. Then you can see the temporary bridge over the edge of the mountains. There en route, you can see a small tent where the local wholesaler sells products. After 30 minutes you will walk out from the forest area and will see meadowland and the immense sight of the Dell. Now you will trail the high peak of the hill. Once you arrive at the top, the following will twirl within the hilly area and you see the huge area of the Parvati Valley in front. This will be the final overpass that you have to cross and you will reach Tunda-Bhuj situated at a high altitude of 11,000 ft above sea level. There you can see huge mountains covered with snow and the sight view looks very pretty.

Tunda Bhuj to Thakur Kuan

  • Altitude(Thakur Kuan): 3,550 m/ 11,650 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 11 km | 6-7 hrs.
  • Altitude Gain: 200m/ 650ft.
  • Most beautiful campsite of the trek.
  • Tricky and rocky patch on the way so walking together is mandatory.
  • After the tricky patch very steep ascent for 1 hr.

As walking down you will reach pastureland through an opaque mixed jungle with a profusion of lovely flowers and Greenery Island. The landscape view of Tunda Bhuj is very easy but the distance is somewhat tough as the bridge is very long to cross and time consuming. Crossing the bridge to the further side of the stream takes time to follow up the peak. It takes 15 minutes to reach the steady climb as you pass through an inclined rocky meadow land. Trekking in Manali discover the prettiness of lovely landscape views and enhance the beautiful picturesque. As you start for the further trail you will go upto a high level and the landscape view can be seen as very striking. After the early rise crossways the Pandu Bridge, walk down towards the Parvati River at your right takes 15 minutes to pass through the fields .Many shepherds can be seen with their group on the way. By evening time, you will reach the Thakur Kuan which is situated at a high altitude of 11,650- ft high above sea level.

Thakur Kuan to Odi Thach

  • Altitude(Odi Thatch): 3,800 m/ 12,400 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 9 km | 5-6hrs.
  • Altitude Gain:250 m/ 750 ft.
  • Easiest day of the trek.
  • Pandu Bridge (The most tricky patch) comes just after 1.5 hrs of trek, to cross that bridge everyone has to be together.
  • Most of the trail is flat walk.
  • Water points are available before the Pandu Bridge
  • Very windy campsite.

The next morning you will feel great after taking good rest as you have to get prepared for the adventures which lie ahead. As this is the easiest day of your trek it won't take a huge toll on your body. You will cross the terrain region and then cross multiple streams coming your way. The day starts with a mild ascent followed by a slightly steep rise in the trail that will take you to the first river crossing. Further, you will find the Parvati River on the left part which looks very attractive. Then you will follow the big forest area and meadow land which can be seen aside from the Parvati River and enter the Thakur Kuan region which is surrounded by the pasture of orchard flowers and small trees. The Pandu bridge which is the most tricky patch comes after 1.5 hours of trek. It is recommended that all trekkers stay together in a group while crossing this natural bridge. This bridge is a natural formation created by huge boulders over the river. After crossing the adventurous Pandu Bridge, the trail is easy to walk as it is a flat ground that requires minimum effort. The trail spreads out in numerous directions as it is a shepherd trail. Remember to follow the group so that you do not get lost amid the labyrinth of trek routes. There are many water points before Pandu Bridge where you can refill your water bottles. After reaching Odi Thach we'll be camping there for the night which is one of the windiest campsites. Odi Thach is a beautiful meadow with the majestic Mt. Kullu Eiger peak overlooking the meadow.

Odi Thach to Mantalai Lake

  • Altitude(Mantalai): 4,150 m/ 13,600 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 12 km | 7-8 hrs.
  • Altitude Gain:- 350 m/ 1,200 ft.
  • After half an hour from Odi Thach a big ground comes, and cross that ground from the left side (the ground is very muddy).
  • Moraine area starts just after crossing that ground.
  • The Moraine area is a steep ascent.
  • Mantalai Lake is the source of the Parvati River.
  • The small temple of lord Shiva at Mantalai Lake, from the temple campsite is 45 minutes away.
  • Chances of getting AMS are high, keep yourself hydrated.
  • Swimming in the lake is not allowed and not advisable.

Today, we'll be covering a distance of 12k m which will take around 7-8 hours. This route is a bit muddy which at times can be slippery so it is important to be cautious. You will come across the moraine area which comes right after crossing the muddy surface. It has a steep ascent which requires a lot of physical energy to climb. So it is important to climb at your own pace. Mantalai Lake is the starting point of the Parvati River and you can also visit a small temple there. Your next campsite is just 45 minutes from here. The lake is at a higher altitude so there are chances of getting AMS. It is important to keep your body hydrated enough so that you are not hit by AMS.

Mantalai Lake to Summit Camp

  • Altiude(Summit Camp):4,950 m/ 16,300 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 11 km | 7-8 hrs.
  • Altitude Gain:- 800 m/ 2,700 ft.
  • exhausted day.
  • Most of the part is very steep ascent.
  • Only two water points are available.
  • Just after 30 to 40 minutes of trek first water stream comes, keep floaters handy.
  • After 3 1/2 hrs one more stream crossing.
  • Chances of missing is very high, never walk alone.
  • Campsite is most uncomfortable, camping will be on rocks.

After leaving the striking place of Mantalai Lake you will cross the river lane which is a very hefty part of the trek and then you will walk through high rocky areas and glaciers. Then you will climb towards the right side of the slope, follow the trail which is very long and takes 9-10 hours. It takes around to climb the high mountain above at 14850 feet. Then you will walk to the campsite area, steep rocks will make you feel tired. Then you will reach to base camp which is surrounded by greenery everywhere and big glaciers. There you will stay in base camp and take rest for an hour and have a delicious dinner.

Summit Camp to Pin Parvati Pass to Pin base/ Bedu Thatch

  • Altitude: Pin Parvati Pass 5,300 m/ 17,450ft | PinBase( Bedu Thatch): 4,450m/ 14,600ft.
  • Trek Distance:15 km | 10-12 hrs.
  • Altitude Gain:- 350m/ 1,150ft.
  • Altitude Loss:- 850m/ 2,850ft.
  • Stay on summit maximum for 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Today don't make your route on snow, always follow the trek leader or guide (craves area).
  • Today's descent is more tricky and tiring than ascent.
  • One stream and one river crossing keep floaters handy and cross under the guidance of your trek leader.
  • After river crossing the site is one hour away.

The trek begins another day after long hours of rest and after a long voyage you will then enter in Spiti Valley. The trail now climbs for an hour amid the glacier and a rock facade. After three hours of sturdy climbing you will arrive at the top of the pass at 17,500 feet from where you can look the way of Pin Valley towards Srikhand Mahadev. The follow come down over flurry and ice fields, covered with grasses and high rocks and stone will also come in your way. At this point, you will need to be very careful as there you will see very hefty paths which cross the dense forest lane and wild areas. The base camp is located in the centre of three vales. Moving further you can view the ranges of Dibibokri and Kulu Makalu which looks very fascinating and eye catchy as it is covered by large mountains and ice.

Pin Base to Tiya

  • Altitude(Tiya): 3,950 m/ 13,000 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 12 km | 5-6 hrs.
  • Altitude Loss: 500 m/ 1,600 ft.
  • Gradual descent.
  • Very beautiful campsite and windy.
  • Bearn land.
  • Can see the Bhaba Pass route.

On this day will be trekking to Tiya which is approximately 12km. It is a gradual descent for most of the trek. It is a barren land which is surrounded by tall mountains. You will be able to see the trail of Bhaba Pass on this route. Your campsite at Tiya has a beautiful setting but it gets cold at night. It is important to have proper layering while you sleep in your tents.

Tiya to Mud Drive to Kaza

  • Altitude: Mud- 3,750 m/ 12,500 ft | Kaza-3,650 m/ 12,000 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 12 km | 4-5 hrs.
  • Drive Distance(Mud - Kaza): 50 km drive 2 hrs.
  • Altitude Loss:300m/ 1,000ft.
  • Flat walk almost on the road.
  • Trek till Mud and drive to Kaza.
  • Due to no network transportation timing may get late.
  • Stay in Kaza (Guest house).

Today we'll be trekking to Mud which is the last village of Pin Valley. It is a flat walk on the road almost on the road. After reaching Mud we will be driving to Kaza. Necessary arrangements will be made for your pick up after which we'll be driving to Kaza. Your accommodation will be in a guesthouse at Kaza.

Kaza to Manali

  • Drive Distance(Kaza- Manali): 200 km | 9-10 hrs.
  • You’ll reach Manali between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm.
  • You can book your travel any time after 7:30 pm.

The way back to Manali will be by the familiar road, the drive starting at 6 You’ll reach Manali between 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm. You can book your travel any time after 7:30 pm.

Trek Essentials

Backpack with rain cover(50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps
Day pack with rain cover20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted)
Walking stickAdvisable (At least one)
Water Bottle / Hydration pack2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask.
Small size tiffin/lunch box1 Nos
SnacksEnergy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors
Personal Medical KitConsult your doctor

 

T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry)2 Full & 2 Half sleeves
Fleece T-shirt1 Nos
Fleece jacket1 Nos
Windproof Jacket1 Nos
Down feather / Hollow jacket1 Nos
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower)1 Pair
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry)3 Nos
Fleece PantNot required
Waterproof glovesNot required
Fleece / woollen gloves1 Pair
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant1 Nos

 

Head torch1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch)
Sun Cap1 Nos
Woolen cap1 Nos.
Balaclava1 Nos.
Buff / Neck-gaiters1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen
SunglassesUV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses

 

Trekking shoes1 Pair (Water-resistant, high ankle, good grip)
Floaters / flip-flops1 Pair
Cotton socks6 pairs
Woollen socks1 pairs
Gaiters1 Pair (NK provides when required)
Micro spikes1 Pair (NK provides when required)

 

Sunscreen1 Nos
Moisturiser1 Nos
Chap-stick / Lip balm1 Nos
Toothbrush and toothpaste1 Nos
Toilet paper & Wipes1 Nos
Soap / hand sanitizers1 Nos
Antibacterial powder1 Nos
Quick dry towel1 Nos

FAQs

The toughest trek in India is the Pin Parvati Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh. It is considered extremely difficult because of its long trekking distances, high altitude, glacier crossings, and rugged terrain. Other challenging treks include Auden’s Col, Kalindi Khal, Panpatia Col, Bali Pass, Kedartal, and Goechala.

The Pin Parvati Pass Trek usually takes around 10–11 days to complete, including acclimatization and buffer days.

The highest point of the trek is Pin Parvati Pass at approximately 17,400 ft (5,300 meters). This is where the route crosses from Parvati Valley in Kullu to Pin Valley in Spiti.

The total trekking distance is approximately 110 km, spread across about 10–11 days.

The best time to do the trek is from mid-July to mid-August. During this time the snow begins to melt, the valleys are lush green, and the pass becomes accessible.

  • Day 1: Manali to Barshaini and trek to Kalga
  • Day 2: Kalga to Kheerganga
  • Day 3: Kheerganga to Tunda Bhuj
  • Day 4: Tunda Bhuj to Thakur Kuan
  • Day 5: Thakur Kuan to Odi Thach
  • Day 6: Odi Thach to Mantalai Lake
  • Day 7: Mantalai Lake to Summit Camp
  • Day 8: Summit Camp to Pin Parvati Pass to Bedu Thach
  • Day 9: Bedu Thach to Tiya
  • Day 10: Tiya to Mud village and drive to Kaza
  • Day 11: Kaza to Manali

The package usually includes accommodation during the trek, meals, camping equipment, experienced trek guides, support staff, first aid assistance, and necessary permits.

The trek is considered very difficult. It includes glacier crossings, steep climbs, river crossings, and long trekking days at high altitude.

The trek starts from Barshaini village near Kasol in Himachal Pradesh. Barshaini is reached by road from Manali.

The trek connects two beautiful valleys: Parvati Valley in Kullu and Pin Valley in Spiti, offering a dramatic change in landscapes.

Trekkers stay in homestays on the first day and twin-sharing tents during the trek. Sleeping bags and camping equipment are provided.

No, this trek is not recommended for beginners. It requires prior high-altitude trekking experience and excellent physical fitness.

The last reliable ATM is located in Manali. It is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash before the trek.

No electricity or charging facility is available during the trek. Trekkers should carry fully charged power banks and spare batteries.

Yes, offloading services are available. Trekkers can hire porters to carry their backpacks.

Trekkers should have experience of at least two high-altitude treks above 4,500 meters before attempting this trek.

  • Crossing the high-altitude Pin Parvati Pass (17,400 ft)
  • Dramatic landscape change from Parvati Valley to Pin Valley
  • Natural hot springs at Kheerganga
  • Glacier crossings and rugged mountain terrain
  • Beautiful campsites and remote Himalayan scenery

Yes, it is recommended to keep 1–2 buffer days due to unpredictable weather and possible road delays in the Himalayan region.

Yes, but only if they are physically fit and medically cleared, as this trek is extremely demanding.

Yes, certain sections may require the use of ropes, crampons, and other safety equipment, especially while crossing glaciers or steep terrain.

Other beautiful treks in Himachal Pradesh include Pin Bhaba Pass, Rupin Pass, Buran Ghati, Hampta Pass, Friendship Peak Expedition, and Yunam Peak Expedition.

Payment & Cancellation Policy:

When you have firmly decided to undertake the Tour with New Knight Adventure, you will need to book the trip with us. We must allocate enough time to prepare, obtain necessary documents and permits, and book hotels and Transport for the trip.
25% advance during the time of booking for confirmation
50% Amount one month prior of arrival in India
25% Amount to be one week prior of arrival in India

 

Cancellation Policy:

• If the cancellation is made 30 days before the tour starts, 25% of the full payment will be deducted and 75% will be refunded.
• If the cancellation is made 20 days before the tour start, 35% of the full payment will be deducted and 65% will be refunded
• If the cancellation is made 10 days before the tour start, 80% will be deducted and 20% will be refunded.
• No refund is made if the trip is cancelled after the departure for Expedition.
• No refund is made during the running tour.
• The cost of travel permit or any other documentation charges will not be refundable

Note: New Knight Adventure do all the ground operations in advance (As soon as we received the confirmation request from the guest). We pay advance payment to all our vendors to ensure all the services that we promise with the guest.