An early morning departure is planned to avoid traffic congestion at Rohtang and Kunzum Passes, which are notorious for their heavy traffic. We’ll drive out of Manali toward Batal via the Rohtang Pass on the Manali Leh Highway. Please note that the road conditions might be challenging, providing an adventurous, bumpy ride throughout the journey.
The route ahead offers picturesque landscapes straight out of a postcard. Tonight’s camping spot will be by the serene Spiti River in Kaza. The process of acclimatization begins today as we adjust to the altitude.
On the acclimatization day, post breakfast, we’ll embark on a drive to explore the nearby tourist spots before heading down to Mudh Village, situated at a lower altitude. The distance from Kaza to Mudh Village is approximately 49 km, and we aim to reach there within 2 hours. Upon arrival at Mudh Village, we’ll begin a trek to Tiya, which typically takes around 2-3 hours. Overnight stay will be arranged at the Tiya Campsite.
Mudh Village boasts an idyllic setting with its picturesque whitewashed houses and terraced fields of peas and barley. It also offers guest houses catering to trekkers exploring the Pin Valley, renowned for its snow leopard and ibex sightings. Mudh stands as the final village encountered on this trek until we reach Kheerganga on the penultimate day
After breakfast, we’ll commence the day’s trek. A prompt start is crucial to navigate the multiple glacial streams, some of which can leave your feet numb. Fortunately, a few of these smaller streams provide drinkable water. Beginning on the left bank of the Pin River, the initial segment involves an undulating walk on loose sedimentary rocks. Following this stretch, a descent to the river is followed by a crossing and an ascent up the opposite side.
Shia serves as a shepherd’s campsite, offering limited space for camping. Finding a suitable spot among the rocks and shale is necessary to set up camp. Please note, this area is prone to landslides, so caution is advised.
Today’s journey presents significant challenges, featuring a demanding steep ascent combined with a lengthy glacier walk and two challenging river crossings. The day commences with crossing the Pin River; if the river crossing isn’t feasible, an alternative route of approximately 2 km over the glacier might be necessary.
The climb to Pin Base Camp is arduous, involving a steep ascent of 1,700 ft. Special attention is required while traversing the stream, as its flow poses risks of being swept down into the valley below. For safety, the team will need to be roped up during this section.
Pin Base Camp itself is a stark, rocky moorland nestled below the Pin glacier and situated 1,000 ft below the Pass.
Today’s trek is once again challenging. It begins with a 3-4 hour steep climb to the pass, followed by a tough 3-3.5 hour descent through crevasses to Parvati Base, and finally, a 4-hour steep descent to Manatalai.
Commencing the trek early is crucial, considering the weather conditions. It’s imperative to avoid traversing the Pass in the afternoon as weather conditions tend to deteriorate later in the day. The ascent to the Pass is strenuous, primarily due to the altitude, though the glacier section has a gradual incline. Notably, there are no crevasses to worry about on the Pin side of the pass. Additionally, the older and originally considered Pass can be spotted to the left of the ridge.
Reaching the Pin Parvati Pass alters the landscape drastically! The panoramic bird’s eye view of both Pin Valley and Parvati Valley is a sight to behold. It presents a stunning panorama of both valleys adorned with unnamed peaks. You’ll catch glimpses of landmarks like Parvati South Ridge, Snow Peak, Ridge Peak, Pyramid Peak, Kullu Makalu, and Bara Shigri.
Today is a rest day—simply relax and unwind. Feel free to explore the nearby beauty if anyone wishes to do so.
This leg of the journey involves a picturesque 9 km downhill trek leading to the renowned meadows of Odi Thach. As you proceed, follow the path along the right side of the river bank until you reach a ridge filled with moraine. Upon reaching the ridge’s summit, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of the spot where the Parvati River rushes down.
The path to Odi Thach veers leftward, tracing the contours of the valley, offering what is arguably the most scenic day of the trek. The slopes near Odi Thach are adorned with vibrant hues of red, blue, and purple flowers, creating a stunning natural tapestry.
Today’s trek is challenging, involving a descent along with a couple of stream crossings and tough river crossings, coupled with ledge walks. Despite having trekked to Odi Thach, this strenuous day might come as a surprise. Initially, the path meanders gradually across the meadows before descending deeper into the valley, navigating through boulder-strewn fields and streams towards the Parvati River.
As you trek, a series of waterfalls cascade on your right, while the Parvati River flows on your left. Keep an eye out for Mt. Kullu Eiger in front of you on the left, surrounded by unnamed peaks and glaciers embracing the valley. The trail then leads down to Pandu Pul, a natural bridge formed over the river by large, misshapen boulders.
Today’s trek to Kheerganga involves a gradual descent towards the gorge below, with the majestic Parvati River flowing on your right side. The trail guides you through numerous pasture lands adorned with silver birch trees. Additionally, along the way, you’ll be captivated by a series of picturesque waterfalls cascading down the colossal mountain walls on the right side of the trail.
Today’s trek involves a moderate level of difficulty. It begins with a steep descent lasting around 40 minutes, followed by an undulating trail for approximately an hour. The day concludes with another steep descent.
The journey covers a 7 km trek from Kheerganga to Barshaini, with an estimated arrival at Barshaini around 11 am, marking the conclusion of the trek at Barshaini.
