The Ultimate Guide to Pin Parvati Pass Trek: A Journey Through the Himalayas

Hear the wind in your hair, the cool mountain air on your face, and a vast feeling of freedom ahead of you with mountains, valleys, and snow in sight. This is the Pin Parvati Pass Trek – a breathtaking and thrilling adventure among the most amusing ones in the Himalayas. Located in the beautiful region of Himachal Pradesh, this trek offers an enchanting experience of natural beauty and spiritual calmness.

Pin Parvati Pass trek in Himachal is not just a trek but an expedition from Kullu Valley to barren and rocky Spiti Valley. This adventure lasts 11 days and is the best combination of geography, ethnography, and fauna that can be seen in this area. From lush green grassland and a high-altitude tropical evergreen forest area all the way to the barren, cold desert of Spiti, each day on this trek is an adventure. Check out the various Spiti Valley tour packages to make this trip joyous and pre-managed.

For all the adrenaline junkies wanting to get back to nature, the Pin Parvati Pass trekking is certainly your dream destination. It tests you to the edge, gives the most majestic sights, and leaves your spirit with tales to share for a lifetime. So, tie up your shoelaces and start packing your bags here is the ultimate guide to Pin Parvati Pass Trek, an evergreen journey across one of the most fascinating trekking destinations of India.

Overview of the Pin Parvati Pass Trek

The Pin Parvati Pass Trek is one of the most challenging treks as it takes place in the district of Kullu’s Parvati Valley and Spiti’s Pin Valley. This trek has wonderful geographical features, challenging trails and the rawness that nature has offered to the Himalayan area. Below are details of what makes this trek one of the most deserving of the effort.

Pin Parvati Pass Trek: The Route

The trekking begins from Manali which is one of the main tourist destinations for trekking and other adventurous activities located in Himachal Pradesh. Basically, you begin your trek from Barshaini which is a place in Manali. From there one reaches the starting point of the trek. It goes through some of the most pictorial and scenic terraced villages and beautiful forests of oak, silver oak, pine deodar and meadows and slowly, steadily climbs up to the height of the high altitude pass. 

One of the most exciting things that a person discovers on this trek is crossing the Pin Parvati Pass which lies at the height of 5319 meters or 17451 feet above sea level. Even the journey down to the Spiti Valley is also spectacular and very rich in its cultural heritage.

The Itinerary of Pin Parvati Pass Trek

1. Day 1: Arrival in Manali – Explore the wonderful town and get used to the weather.
2. Day 2: Manali to Barshaini to Rudranath Camp – Your first day of trekking begins.
3. Day 3: Rudranath Camp to Khirganga – Trek through hot springs and forests.
4. Day 4: Khirganga to Tunda Bhuj – Trek alongside the river and steep slopes.
5. Day 5: Tunda Bhuj to Thakur Kuan – Walk through rough and rocky routes and beautiful landscapes.
6. Day 6: Thakur Kuan to Ody Thach – Keep going toward the top.
7. Day 7: Ody Thach to Mantalai Lake – Explore the serene beauty of Mantalai Lake.
8. Day 8: Mantalai Lake to Base Camp – It’s time to return back from the trek.
9. Day 9: Base Camp to Pin Parvati Pass to Pin Valley – Cross the Pin Parvati Pass and enter Spiti Valley.
10. Day 10: Pin Valley to Mudh to Kaza – Trek to Mudh village and drive to Kaza.
11. Day 11: Kaza to Manali – Drive back to Manali.

Suggested Read: Spiti Valley Trek: The Ultimate Himalayan Adventure

Key Highlights and Attractions of Pin Parvati Pass Trek

1. Kheerganga Hot Springs

Kheerganga is one of the first major attractions of the trek which has hot water springs. Especially, after the tiresome day of trekking, the warm water of the natural hot spring gives a very relaxing feeling. Natural spring water is considered to possess some healing qualities and therefore, this place is the trekkers’ favourite.

2. Mantalai Lake

Mantalai Lake is located at 4,100 meters above sea level and it is a beautiful, calm and quiet lake enriched by the snowy mountains. The lake is spiritually significant the water is clear, and the huge mountains, surround the lake giving it a serene aura.

3. Crossing the Pin Parvati Pass

The highlight of the trek is the crossing of the Pin Parvati Pass which is arguably the toughest and most exhilarating section of the entire trail. Sitting on the top and at the height of 5, 319 meters gives wonderful sceneries of other higher and lower mountain tops and valleys.

4. The Stark Beauty of Spiti Valley

As you pave your way towards the Spiti Valley, you are welcomed by a totally different natural surrounding. While Spiti is characterized by its serene landscapes, sharp cliffs, and age-old monasteries, Parvati Valley offers a rich green panorama. The second striking feature of this trek is the cultural aspect of Spiti which has its major influence from Tibet as seen in the villages and monasteries on the route.

Detailed Itinerary of Pin Parvati Pass Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Manali

The trip starts in Manali, a beautiful town located in the state of Himachal Pradesh on the banks of the Beas River. Spend the day purchasing some items that you missed in the goods markets within the region and start preparing for the trek. Trek up to Hadimba Temple and get a great feel of Manali.

Day 2: Manali to Barshaini to Rudranath Camp

Start early from Manali and reach Barshaini which is the trek starting point. After Barshaini start your trek to Rudranath Camp. This trail runs right through the thick forests and some lovely little villages offering a sneak peek into the local life of the region.

Day 3: Rudranath Camp to Khirganga

Trek from Rudranath Camp to Khirganga, famous for its hot water springs. In terms of difficulty, it is moderately difficult due to the steep climbing and declining paths along the trail. Take a bath in the hot springs and get to enjoy the quiet natural environment you are likely to find there.

Day 4: Khirganga to Tunda Bhuj

On day 4, your trek starts from Khirganga to Tunda Bhuj. The path from Khirganga to Tunda Bhuj passes through green grassy miles and thick scrubs. The whole trail has many breathtaking waterfalls and flowing streams along it. Tunda Bhuj situated at an altitude of 3,280 meters is also the best place to view the nearby peaks and mountains.

Day 5: Tunda Bhuj to Thakur Kuan

Proceeding further, reach the overnight halt at Thakur Kuan which is an ideal campsite amidst the mountains. It passes through steep slopes and some sections require crossing several rivers. It’s an excellent place for bird watching and having a relaxing time in Thakur Kuan.

Day 6: Thakur Kuan to Ody Thach

The trek from Thakur Kuan to Ody Thach is comparatively easy as they go through pastures and slopes. Situated at an altitude of 3,600 meters, Ody Thach is a beautiful campsite that offers spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains around the place.

Day 7: Ody Thach to Mantalai Lake

The journey towards Mantalai Lake is difficult as it involves crossing steep ridges mostly with sharp rock surfaces. Mantalai Lake situated at an altitudinal height of 4100 meters, is a calm and spiritual lake. It is an ideal place for camping with beautiful surroundings and marvelous views of the enclosing peaks.

Day 8: Mantalai Lake to Base Camp

Move up to reach the base of the Pin Parvati Pass. This trail is difficult with steep slopes and some river crossings along its length. The base camp is located at 4700 meters and offers striking views of the glaciers and other peaks.

Day 9: Base Camp to Pin Parvati Pass to Pin Valley

The most difficult route of the trek is passing through the Pin Parvati Pass. The climb is very steep and most of the time is on snow and ice. The pass stands at 5,319 meters, and reaching it is a great reward and has spectacular views to enjoy. 

Day 10: Pin Valley to Mudh to Kaza

Trek to Mudh village which is the last inhabited village of Pin Valley. From Mudh, proceed to Kaza which is the largest sub-division and town in the Spiti Valley. Visit monasteries that are as old as the history of mankind and enjoy the scenic beauty of Spiti.

Day 11: Kaza to Manali

Finally, drive back to Manali as this is the end of your thrilling trip. Take some time and think about the fantastic time you have spent and the memories created during the trek.

How to Reach Pin Parvati Pass

To reach pin Parvati Pass, you have to travel a long way. Here are a few transportation options that you can opt for:

1. By Air: The Bartang Airport which is also known as Bhuntar Airport is the closest airport to Manali which is about 50 kilometres away. Daily flights operate with Bhuntar with Delhi and other important cities of the country. To get to Manali, one can hire a taxi or even opt for a bus from the airport.
2. By Train: The nearest rail station is Joginder Nagar which is about 160 km from Manali. However, the majority of visitors choose to go to Chandigarh or Ambala and take a bus or taxi to Manali.
3. By Road: Manali has very good road connectivity to most of the places in Himachal Pradesh as well as the other states in northern India. You have Volvo and deluxe buses from Delhi and Chandigarh to reach Manali.

Suggested Read: Ultimate Camping Guide to Spiti Valley : Tips & Highlights

Things to Carry for Pin Parvati Trek

Preparation is indeed the cornerstone of any successful adventure, and packing the right equipment and supplies cannot be overemphasized. Here’s a list of essential items to carry for the Pin Parvati Pass Trek:

• Clothing: Wearing multiple layers of clothes is recommended. Thermal wear, fleece jackets, waterproof jackets and quick-dry t-shirts should be carried. Wear enough warm clothes because the weather at night gets very cold.
• Footwear: Comfortable, waterproof, high-ankle trekking boots with a good grip are required. Wear comfortable shoes or sandals for the campsite. It is advisable to come with an extra pair.
• Camping Gear:  Some of the most important and must-haves during the trek are quality sleeping bags, tents, and sleeping mats. If you are trekking with a group organization or hired a trekking company they often supply these.
• Personal Items: Carry personal items like trekking poles, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, a hat and a backpack which should be covered with a rain cover. Pack toiletries, first aid items and any medication that you require during your travel.
• Food and Water: Carry enough water bottles and water purification tablets. Pack energy bars, dry fruits and other snacks to create a space for small snacks between the meals.
• Miscellaneous: An extra set of batteries for your headlamp, a multi-tool, binoculars or a camera and a power bank should also be carried.

Best Time to do Pin Parvati Pass Trek

As for the climate, the ideal time to take the Pin Parvati Pass Trek would be during the summer season, specifically from June up to September. This is the best time in terms of climatic conditions for the trails to be almost free of barriers such as heavy snow. In terms of temperature it can get up to 12-20°C in the daytime, and 0°C at night. The climate is hot during the day and very stuffy at night while the monsoon which is from July to August causes occasional rain which makes the trail very slippery. One should not attempt the trek in the winter because this pass is closed due to the snow and its path is inaccessible.

Pin Parvati Pass Trek Cost

The cost of the Pin Parvati Pass Trek depends on the agency, the duration of the trek, and the services that will be provided on this trek. Generally, the total expenditure varies between INR 25000 to INR 40000 per head. This normally consists of transport, accommodation, meals, guide and porters’ fees, park fees and/or trekking fees, and various charges to cover meals and camps. This is why it is recommended to use the services of a professional trekking agency which offers services of competent guides and equipment for safe and healthy trekking.

Suggested Read: Travel Tips for Spiti Valley

Pin Parvati Pass Trek Distance and Height

The entire Pin Parvati Pass Trek spans up to about 68 miles, which is roughly 110 kilometres. The trek technically is intensely steep as the maximum altitude of this trek is Pin Parvati Pass which lies at 5,319m or 17451 feet. Hence, a good physique and acclimatization is very important to be able to complete the trek.

Conclusion

The Pin Parvati Pass Trek is one of the most thrilling and scenic treks in the great and Great Himalayas Range of the world. It’s a journey that takes you from the green plateau of Kullu to the barren mountain ranges of Spiti over the succeeding days. Whether you are trekking for the first time or a professional trekker, the Pin Parvati trek remains the special journey of a lifetime.

So, dear wanderers get your trekking gear ready and leave for this adventurous expedition. 

Happy Trekking!