History about the Patalsu Peak Trek

Patalsu Peak trek is one of the most popular treks in Himachal especially among the beginners or first time trekkers. The trek is located in the serene Kullu district of Himachal and can be aptly termed as a beginner’s dream trek. Pushing through the varied trails to a height of 4,220 meters (13,845 ft), the trek is an ideal adventure for trekkers looking for a short and fulfilling adventure. Starting from Manali, this trek offers breathtaking views, gurgling Beas river crossing and many more thrilling experiences in the lap of raw, unadulterated nature! Even though this is an easy to moderate grade trek, Patalsu Peak trek is a complete package with views of snow clad mountain peaks of Solang Valley and a peak summit!

Spanning over just 4 days, Patalsu Peak trek will take you through fragrant apple orchards, quaint Himalayan hamlets, the peaceful forest walks and a 360 degrees view of the surrounding mountain peaks once you reach the summit. If you are pressed for time and looking for a fulfilling adventure in Himachal, then this is it! You will never regret choosing Patalsu Peak trek for a short but blissful adventure experience. Himachal is a hub of many mountaineering expeditions and has been associated with many trekking adventures since long. But long, multi-day treks or expeditions can often be out of reach for the beginners or for people who want to taste the adventure of trekking in Himachal. For them Patalsu Peak trek is the perfect choice.

Patalsu peak - All information about the 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.

Highlight of the Patalsu Peak Trek:

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.

Difficulty levels of Patalsu Peak Trek

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.

Best time to Visit the Patalsu Peak Trek

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 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. 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.

Patalsu peak In winters (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.

Places to visit during the Patalsu Peak Trekking

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 favorite adventure destination among both nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. There are 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 Patalsu peak trek. The Jagatpatt temple is an intricate example of the culture and tradition of the mountain people and showcases distinct design 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.

How to reach the Base Camp of Patalsu Peak Trek

Step 1 - Plan your flight to Delhi/Dehradun or you can come via train.

By air - The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar airport. There are flights operated from Delhi, Chandigarh and Shimla to reach this airport. From the airport, Manali is 50 kms away.

Step 2 - Road Travel to base camp

From Delhi, Chandigarh and Dehradun there are regular bus services to Manali.

What to pack before trekking to Patalsu peak

Important Documents

Before setting out for Sura Valley Trek, be organized with all necessary

• Identifications: Government issued identity proof like passport and Aadhaar card.
• Permits: Getting those trek permits in advance.
• Travel Insurance: Stipulated just for trekking activities.
• Emergency contacts: Number of contacts including local authorities and embassies.

Personal Med-kit

It is necessary to have a personal med-kit during any trek. The list includes:

• First-aid supplies: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, gauze, medical tapes.
• Medicines: Prescription, pain-killer, and anti-inflammatory.
• Altitude sickness tablets: Required especially if trekking at higher altitudes.
• Personal hygiene: Hand sanitizers, wet wipes, and a towel of small size.
• Others: Blister pads, sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent.

Clothing for Winters

Layering is the way to stay warm:

• Base Layer: Moisture-wicking thermals .
• Mid Layer: Insulating fleece or wool jackets .
• Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof jackets and pants.
• Head and Hands: Wool hats, gloves, neck gaiters.
• Footwear: Sturdy trek boots and their pair of warm socks .

With this preparedness whole, trek into the Patalsu Peak will be enjoyed in safety and comfort.

Expert’s Fitness tips for the Trek

The Patalsu peak trek, located in Manali,, is an easy to moderate but rewarding adventure. To prepare for this trek, consider the following expert fitness tips:

• Cardiovascular endurance: Build your endurance with regular cardio exercises, such as running, cycling, or swimming, for at least 6-8 weeks prior to the trek.
• Strength training: Incorporate strength training exercises to build leg strength, core stability, and overall muscular endurance.
• High-altitude acclimatization: Acclimatize to high altitudes by gradually increasing your elevation exposure over several days or weeks.
• Flexibility and mobility: Incorporate stretching exercises to maintain flexibility and mobility.

What do people like about the Patalsu peak?

The Patalsu Peak trek offers stunning views of the Kullu Valley, is beginner-friendly, and lets you experience lush forests and local culture. It’s a rewarding adventure with breathtaking scenery, a sense of accomplishment, and an opportunity to see diverse wildlife and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Himalayas.

Patalsu Peak Trek Itinerary

FAQs regarding the Patalsu peak trek