Friendship Peak Trek

Friendship Peak. Isn't it an offbeat name for a trek? Indeed, it is. The trek has its unique name because of its geographical location. It is situated between the origins of two rivers: Vyas (Beas) and Ravi. Both of these beautiful rivers originate from this region, and in between rises the Friendship Peak, the first choice for experienced trekkers. Friendship Peak Trek, due to its challenging nature, is also considered an expedition.

Friendship Peak Trek/Expedition enables you to explore the heart of the Pir Panjal Range. The trek starts from Dhundi near Manali. During this trek, every day offers you the opportunity to explore different terrains. It begins with beautiful meadows and forests, taking you to the snow-capped summit. In between, there are dense forests, meadows, moraines, and snow-capped mountains.

This trek offers spectacular views of the seven sisters peaks and the mighty Hanuman Tibba Peak, which is the highest mountain peak of the Dhauladhar mountain range with an altitude of 19,626 ft. By choosing this trek, you will be able to witness the mesmerizing beauty of both the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal mountain ranges.

Friendship Peak Trek Route:

This trek starts from Dhundi. After an hour's drive from Manali, one can reach Dhundi. From there, you will embark on this adventurous trek. On the first day, you will stay at the Bakarthach Campsite. Bakarthach got its name from the tribal shepherds who used to stay at this place during their yearly migration to feed their herd of sheep and goats. From there, the trail will take you to the Lady Leg Campsite, considered to be the base camp for the trek. From the base camp, you will ascend to the advanced camp, from where you will attempt to reach the summit. Following the same route, you will return to Dhundi, where you will board a vehicle to reach Manali.

Best time to do Friendship Peak Trek:

May-June and September-October are the best times to do this trek when the weather mostly remains pleasant, increasing your chances of reaching the summit.

During the peak monsoon, this trek becomes inaccessible due to the possibility of landslides. Having moraines on the trek makes it risky to embark on this adventure during the monsoon season. Similarly, in winter, the Friendship Peak expedition becomes inaccessible because of heavy snowfall.

Hence, the optimal time to undertake this trek in the summer season is May-June or after the monsoons in the months of September-October.