Friendship Peak Expedition

Himalayan Trekking

Difficult

Friendship Peak Expedition

Max Altitude

7 Days

24 Km

Himachal

India

Overview

Trek Name: Friendship Peak Expedition

Days: 7

Adventure Type: Trekking

Base Camp: Manali

Season:Summer | Monsoon |

Month:June | July | August | September |

Country: India

Altitude: 17346 Ft.

Grade: Challenging

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

Stay: Camping (Twin sharing)

Food: Meals while on trek

Location: Himachal Pradesh

Distance: 24 Km.

Trail Type: Summit, Point to point | Scale a peak, Camping at the same location upon returning.

AirPort: Bhuntar, which is 52 km away from Manali

Highlights:

For non Indians $100 extra trek permit fee
Services: Manali to Manali | Included Transport.

Who Can Participate

Age Requirement:
- Minimum 16 years
First-timers are welcome, though prior trekking experience is preferred. Good fitness is a must.
Fitness Criteria:
- The Trekker should have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance in 30 minutes without stress or 10 km of distance by jogging in 70 minutes without stress.
- If the trekker prefers cycling he/ she should be able to cycle 20 km of distance in 55 minutes.
If the trekker wants to carry a backpack then he/she should be able to carry a 10-12 kg backpack. If opt Off-load option then the Trekker should be able to carry 3-5 kg backpack.
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: Arrive in Manali

Altitude: 2000 m/ 6,550 ft.

Note: Only hotel stay is included in the cost (sightseeing and food are excluded).

Important note for Non-Indians: Foreign nationals will need a Foreigner Trek permit for the Friendship Peak Expedition. The charge for obtaining the Foreigner Trek permit is $100 per person. The payment will be made directly to the TTH representative upon arrival in Manali on day 1.

Day-2: Manali to Dhundi (Drive) to Bakkarthatch (Trek)

Altitude: Dhundi – 2850 m/ 9350 ft; Bakarthach- 3300 m/ 10,800 ft .
Drive Distance (Manali – Dhundi): 21 km | 1 .5 hrs.
Trek Distance (Dhundi – Bakarthach): 5 km | 3 hrs approx.

Day-3: Bakarthatch to Lady Leg

Altitude: 3,900 m/ 12,800 ft.
Trek Distance: 3 km | 3 hrs approx.

Day-4: Load ferry to Summit Camp and back to Lady Leg

Altitude(Summit Camp): 4,750 m/ 15,500 ft.
Trek Distance (One way): 2 km | 2-3hrs.

Day-5: Move to Summit Camp

Altitude(Summit Camp): 4,750 m/ 15,500 ft.
Trek Distance: 2 km | 2-3 hrs.

Day-6: Summit attempt and back to Lady Leg camp

Altitude(Friendship Peak): 5,287 m/17,346 ft.
Trek Distance(Summit camp to Friendship peak): 5 km one way | 8-9 hrs (Both way).
Trek Distance (Summit camp to Lady leg): 2 km | 1.5 hrs.

Day-7: Lady Leg to Dhundi to Manali

Trek Distance: 8 km, 4-5 hrs approx.
Drive Distance: 21 km, 1.5 hrs approx.

Note: Manali stay is not included in the cost

Day 8: Buffer Day

Buffer day will be used if the summit cannot be attempted due to any unforeseen circumstances.
Opting for buffer day is a team decision.
Recommended to keep a buffer day in your travel plan.
Buffer day cost is not included in the plan.
An additional amount will be charged for buffer day on a per day, per person basis.
If buffer day is not used in the expedition, use it for sightseeing around Manali.

Day 1: Arrival in Manali

Altitude: 2000 m / 6,550 ft
Stay: Hotel

Arrive in Manali, a popular mountain town in Himachal Pradesh and the starting point of the Friendship Peak expedition. After reaching the hotel, spend the day resting and acclimatizing.

You may visit nearby attractions like Hadimba Temple and Vashisht Hot Springs. In the evening the expedition team conducts a briefing about the trek route, safety guidelines and equipment required for the climb.

Day 2: Drive from Manali to Dhundi – Trek to Bakarthach

Dhundi: 2,850 m
Bakarthach: 3,300 m
Drive: 21 km | 1.5 hrs
Trek Distance: 5 km | 3 hrs
Stay: Camps

Drive from Manali to Dhundi through the beautiful Solang Valley. From Dhundi the trek begins along the Beas River surrounded by forests and alpine meadows.

The trail gradually ascends to Bakarthach, a scenic meadow campsite surrounded by glaciers and high mountain peaks.

Day 3: Trek from Bakarthach to Lady Leg (Advanced Base Camp)

Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,800 ft
Trek Distance: 3 km | 3 hrs
Stay: Camps

Today’s trek is steeper and involves walking through moraine patches and rocky terrain. Though the distance is short, the climb is challenging due to altitude gain.

Reach Lady Leg, also known as the Advanced Base Camp. From here you can see magnificent peaks such as Deo Tibba, Indrasan and parts of the Dhauladhar range.

Day 4: Load Ferry to Summit Camp – Return to Lady Leg

Summit Camp Altitude: 4,750 m
Trek Distance: 2 km | 2–3 hrs
Stay: Camps

Today is an acclimatization day following the “climb high, sleep low” principle. Trekkers carry essential equipment and supplies to the summit camp and return back to Lady Leg.

This exercise helps the body adjust to the increasing altitude and prepares the team for the summit attempt.

Day 5: Move to Summit Camp

Altitude: 4,750 m / 15,500 ft
Trek Distance: 2 km | 2–3 hrs
Stay: Camps

Today the team shifts to the summit camp. The route follows the same trail as the previous day but now with lighter loads.

At the summit camp the guides conduct technical training sessions including the use of ice axes, crampons, ropes and climbing techniques required for the summit climb.

Day 6: Summit Attempt – Friendship Peak – Return to Lady Leg

Summit Altitude: 5,287 m / 17,346 ft
Trek Distance: 5 km one way
Climb Duration: 8–9 hrs
Stay: Camps

The summit push begins around 2 AM under the guidance of experienced mountaineers. The climb involves snow slopes, rocky terrain and glacier sections.

Reaching the summit rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of surrounding peaks like Deo Tibba, Indrasan and Hanuman Tibba. After spending some time at the top, descend back to Lady Leg campsite.

Day 7: Trek from Lady Leg to Dhundi – Drive to Manali

Trek Distance: 8 km | 4–5 hrs
Drive Distance: 21 km | 1.5 hrs

The final day involves descending through Bakarthach and returning to Dhundi. From Dhundi drive back to Manali.

This marks the end of the Friendship Peak Expedition and an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

Buffer Day: An additional buffer day is recommended in case weather conditions delay the summit attempt.

Trek Essentials

Backpack with rain cover	(50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps
Day pack with rain cover	20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted)
Walking stick	Advisable (At least one)
Water Bottle / Hydration pack	2 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 box	1 Nos
Snacks	Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors
Personal Medical Kit	Consult your doctor

T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry)	1 Full & 2 Half sleeves
Fleece T-shirt	1 Nos
Fleece jacket	1 Nos
Windproof Jacket	1 Nos
Down feather / Hollow jacket	1 Nos
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower)	1 Pair
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry)	2 Nos
Fleece Pant	1 Nos
Waterproof gloves	1 Pair
Fleece / woollen gloves	1 Pair
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant	1 Nos

Head torch	1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch)
Sun Cap	1 Nos
Woolen cap	1 Nos.
Balaclava	1 Nos.
Buff / Neck-gaiters	1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen
Sunglasses	UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses \| (B)- Photo chromatic glasses

Trekking shoes	1 Pair (Water-resistant, high ankle, good grip)
Floaters / flip-flops	1 Pair
Cotton socks	6 pairs
Woollen socks	1 pairs
Gaiters	1 Pair (NK provides when required)
Micro spikes	1 Pair (NK provides when required)

Sunscreen	1 Nos
Moisturiser	1 Nos
Chap-stick / Lip balm	1 Nos
Toothbrush and toothpaste	1 Nos
Toilet paper & Wipes	1 Nos
Soap / hand sanitizers	1 Nos
Antibacterial powder	1 Nos
Quick dry towel	1 Nos

FAQs

The best time to climb Friendship Peak is during July and August. These months usually provide better summit success chances with comparatively stable weather. The trails are easier to follow and the surrounding Himalayan landscapes appear lush and vibrant during the monsoon season.

The Friendship Peak Expedition is considered a difficult grade trek and is best suited for experienced trekkers or those with mountaineering experience. The expedition involves steep trails, rugged terrain, glacier walking, and a challenging summit climb at high altitude.

Friendship Peak is located in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. The expedition usually begins from Manali, a popular Himalayan hill station that serves as the base for many trekking and mountaineering expeditions.

Friendship Peak stands at an altitude of 5,287 meters (17,346 feet) above sea level. From the summit, climbers enjoy spectacular views of the Pir Panjal range, the Dhauladhar range, and several other Himalayan peaks.

The journey usually begins in Manali. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, from where you can travel to Manali by road. From Manali, trekkers drive to Dhundi, which is the usual starting point of the trek.

Yes, prior mountaineering experience is highly recommended. Climbers should be familiar with basic technical skills such as using crampons, ice axes, ropes, and harnesses, as the summit section involves glacier travel and steep snow slopes.

You will need proper mountaineering gear such as climbing boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet, ropes, insulated clothing, gloves, sunglasses, and other high-altitude equipment. Many expedition organizers including NK Adventure provide or arrange rental equipment if required.

Climbing Friendship Peak can be safe with proper preparation, physical fitness, and guidance from experienced mountaineering leaders. Following safety protocols, acclimatizing properly, and using reliable equipment are essential for a successful expedition.

Some risks include altitude sickness, sudden weather changes, icy terrain, avalanches, and slips on steep snow slopes. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and climbing with an experienced guide can significantly reduce these risks.

The Friendship Peak Expedition usually takes around 7 days depending on the itinerary and weather conditions. The journey starts from Manali and passes through scenic locations like Dhundi, Bakkarthach, and Lady Leg before reaching the summit camp.

Yes, camping is an important part of the expedition. Trekkers camp at scenic locations such as Bakkarthach, Lady Leg, and the summit camp, offering breathtaking views of surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Climbing with an experienced guide is highly recommended. Friendship Peak involves glacier travel and technical sections where professional guidance improves safety and increases the chances of a successful summit.

Climbing Friendship Peak requires permits from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF). When you book your expedition with NK Adventure, the team usually handles all the necessary permit arrangements.

Some popular mountaineering peaks in India include Stok Kangri in Ladakh, Kang Yatse Peak in the Markha Valley, and Mount Trishul in Uttarakhand. These peaks offer thrilling mountaineering experiences along with stunning Himalayan views.

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.