Patalsu Peak Trek

Why choose Patalsu trek? This must be one of the pressing questions in one’s mind especially when there are a buffet of options available. However, if you are beginner or a seasoned trekker looking for a short, fulfilling trekking adventure in the Soland valley, then this is it - Patalsu peak trek. 

Seasons to attempt: If you want to attempt the Patalsu Peak trek then know that the best season will be from mid of May to mid of October. Around these months you can trek in two distinctive seasons - summer and autumn. During summer you will walk through the vibrant nature experiencing clear weather and the bounties of nature. In autumn you will be graced by the clear sky and resultantly stunning view of the surrounding snowy mountains. 

Patalsu Peak trek can be attempted during winter months also. However, that will require more time, meticulous planning with special safety equipment. 

Tentative Itinerary: Patalsu Peak trek can be done in 4 days depending on whether you are starting from Manali or the Solang Nalla. A tentative itinerary will be as following -

• Day 1: You will arrive at Manali and Drive to Solang Valley gaining an altitude of 2560 meters.
• Day 2: You will start the trek from Solang to Base Camp and reach to an altitude of 3,280 m after trekking for around 4-5 hours.
• Day 3: This is the day when you trek towards and summit the Patalsu Peak. The summit is at a height of 4,220 m. After this return commences to Solang. Today’s trek will take about 8-9 hours.
• Day 4: Today just relax and enjoy the scenic beauty while driving back to Manali. Drive will take about 1 hour.

Considering the short days of itinerary the Patalsu Peak trek is very much rewarding. Let us highlight some of the best points of this trek to pique your interest further - 

• Starting Point: The trek commences from the famous Solang valley renowned for its electronic apple country and mountaineering trips.
• Forest Trails: Throughout the journey you will come across a magical forest studded with oak, pine and deodar. The trail is fairly easy to follow, yet, there are sections that are very slippery and muddy after a rain so you need to be careful about your steps.
• Alpine Meadows: Higher up, the forests give way to beautiful opening welcoming you to sub-alpine meadows with wildflowers in summer. These moderate gradients will help you in coming grasp with the trekking exercise.
• Rocky Terrain: An increase in altitude will lead the trekkers to a combination of more rugged and steep ground. Here one needs to be careful when choosing foot placements. We suggest trekkers use trekking poles for better stability.
• Snow-Covered Areas: During winter, some parts of the trail, especially near the peak can be covered with snow. Trekkers need to wear some of the basic winter trekking gears like crampons and gaiters.
• Summit Views: The last stretch to Patalsu peak is rather steep and challenging but the view that one gets to see of Solang valley and the great Himalayas is worth all the hussle.

According to Season

Patalsu peak trek is an easy to moderate grande trek. The trek is usually suitable for the beginners and first time trekkers. However, depending on the season the grade may go towards challenging. 

Usually this trek is best attempted within mid May to mid October. While the Summer and Autumn months offer clear sky, fresh flora-fauna and less challenges on the trail, post monsoon the trail gets more slippery especially in the forest part. So, trekkers need to take adequate precaution depending on the season they are attempting Patalsu peak trek.

Winter season can be quite challenging with the temperature dropping below zero degrees, snowfall and related challenges on the trail. The rocky part in the higher altitude part of this trek can get quite tricky and challenging. However, with proper winter trekking gear and safety instructions these challenges can be tackled.

According to altitude & temperature

Patalsu peak trek, as the name suggest take you to a Himalayan peak and as such offers a good altitude gain. This is a short trek covering only 4 days. You will be achieving a peak trek at an altitude of 13,845 ft, which is quite impressive. 

However, gaining rapid altitude within a span of only 2-3 days can be quite challenging for the uninitiated. That is why it is always advisable for the beginners and first time trekkers to at least reach the base camp 1 or 2 days prior to the trek and acclimatize. 

While the first day there will be a drive from Manali to Solang valley, there is not much altitude gain. While Solang valley is situated at an altitude of 8000+ft the next two days trekkers will gain around 4000 ft of altitude. Combined with the trail, especially with its rocky part, this can be challenging for some trekkers. So, we suggest paying proper attention to your fitness before attempting this trek to9 enjoy the adventure fully.

According to Trekker’s

Patalsu Peak trek is an easy to moderate grade trek making it ideal for the beginners as well as seasoned trekkers. 

However, the trail has quite a few challenging sections with steep inclines, rocky sections and some slippery patches. However, with proper care, attention and gear all these can be tackled properly.

Depending on the season, the Patalsu trek challenge can vary. It would be ideal to attempt this trek in between May to October when the temperature is not challenging and the view will be quite impressive with clear weather windows. However, in winter due to snowfall Patalsu trek can be challenging.

Patalsu peak In summers (Months)

Usually, this trek is best attempted within mid-May to mid-October. While the Summer and Autumn months offer clear sky, fresh flora-fauna and fewer challenges on the trail, post-monsoon the trail gets more slippery, especially in the forest part. So, trekkers need to take adequate precautions depending on the season they are attempting the Patalsu peak trek. It would be ideal to attempt this trek between May to October when the temperature is not challenging and the view will be quite impressive with clear weather windows.

Patalsu peak In winter (Months)

It would be ideal to attempt this trek in between May to October when the temperature is not challenging and the view will be quite impressive with clear weather windows. However, in winter due to snowfall Patalsu trek can be challenging. 

The trails will be covered in snow and trekkers will need proper trek gear and safety measures to ensure they can reach the peak and have a successful attempt at this trek in the winter season.

Solang valley

Solang Valley is an adventurer’s paradise. This picturesque hill station which is located in the stunning state of Himachal Pradesh is situated near Manali. It will be an hour drive to Solang valley from Manali. Solang Valley is a favourite adventure destination among both nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. There are a multitude of adventure activities including, trekking, paragliding, zorbing and more. One can also enjoy a thrilling journey on the Solang Valley Ropeway. You can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Apple orchards

Solang valleys are dotted with many apple orchards. These are one of the main sources of income for the locals. The apples from Solang Valley apple orchards are known for their distinct aroma and flavour. There are quite a few activities that visitors can undertake apart from walking through the apple orchards and witnessing the operations in the orchards.

Jagatpatt Temple

This is one of the major tourist attractions when you go for the Patalsu peak trek. The Jagatpatt temple is an intricate example of the culture and tradition of the mountain people and showcases distinct designs on wood. This is a Siva temple and dates back to the 7th century.

Gauri Shankar temple

This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati. The location of this temple is awe-inspiring. Located amid lush greenery with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains this temple offers a serene and peaceful ambience.
Prashar lake

Dedicated to sage Prashar who is said to have meditated near the lake, the Prashar Lake is a stunning lake near Manali. The stunning natural beauty surrounding this lake is simply breathtaking. This is a nature lover’s paradise and is one of the tourist attractions that you can explore when you attempt the Patalsu peak trek.