Pin Parvati Pass Trek

Ready to take on a challenge? Pin Parvati Pass Trek is one of the longest trans Himalayan treks in the state. It goes up to 110 km as the Parvati Pass connects the Spiti and Kullu valley. The trek is known for its unparalleled beauty as it will take you through abundant alpine forests, lush greens and enchanting waterfalls. You’ll also be greeted with many colourful wildflowers on the way. The contrast of the arid Spiti Valley on one side and lush green surroundings on the other make this a unique experience. Pin Parvati trek promises a range of unforgettable experiences: from crossing the pulley bridge at Tunda Bhuj to navigating the marshlands of Mantalai, trekking across the alpine meadows of Odi Thach, exploring dense forests near Kheerganga and encountering glaciers near the Pass. This trek offers a diverse journey, transitioning from the cold, dry deserts of Spiti to the lush, verdant landscapes of the Parvati valley. The contrast between the rocky, wind-carved formations and glaciers, followed by the vibrant greenery and flowers at Odi Thach, is truly captivating after days of trekking. As the trek nears its end, a unique highlight is the experience of the hot water springs at Parvati Kund in Kheerganga. Words fall short in describing the sheer bliss of soaking in these hot springs after a challenging day of trekking. It's akin to enjoying a luxurious five-star sauna experience amidst the Himalayas, a rare treat on any trek.

History of Pin Parvati Pass Trek

Located in Himachal Pradesh, the Pin Parvati Pass is considered the sacred route which connects the lush green Parvati Valley (Kullu) to the dry and cold desert of Spiti Valley. As per Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva used this pass to travel between Kinnaur and Spiti Valley. Since the pass connects two contrasting words- lush Parvati Valley and cold deserts of Spiti, it is believed that Pin Parvati Pass symbolizes the union of two energies- one is the nurturing energy of Goddess Parvati and other the ascetic energy of Lord Shiva. Locals believe that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati have meditated near the Pin Parvati Pass. It is also believed that Pandavas from the Mahabharata once travelled through this region during their exile.

Since the terrain of the Pin Parvati Pass region was very difficult, only local shepherds, traders and monks used to pass through the routes, that too occasionally. The Spiti side of the pass has been influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. Monks and spiritual seekers used these routes to travel between Spiti and Kullu.

In 1884, a British officer, Sir Louis Dane, officially crossed the Pin Parvati Pass for the very first time. This is how a shorter route between Kullu and Spiti has been explored. Since then, it started gaining recognition and became one of the most challenging trekking routes in Himachal Pradesh.

Highlights of Pin Parvati Pass Trek

• Mantalai Lake: Mantalai Lake is the sacred glacial lake where the Parvati river originates from. It is surrounded by the moraines and snow-capped peaks which makes it a perfect picturesque location. It offers serene vibes and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.
• Diverse Flora: On the Parvati Valley side, you will find dense forests of pine, oak, rhododendron and deodar. In the summer season, there are wild Himalayan blooming like daisies, blue poppies, primulas, juniper shrubs, edelweiss and more. You can also see wild strawberries and Himalayan raspberries growing here. 
• Himalayan Wildlife: Pin Parvati Pass is home to Himalayan black bears, langurs and many colourful birds. On the Spiti side, due to the cold desert ecosystem, blue sheep (bharal), marmots, ibex and snow leopards (rare) can be spotted.
• Pin Valley National Park: Pin Valley National Park is a conserved high-altitude park located in Spiti Valley. It’s known for rare Himalayan wildlife and stark desert landscapes. It gives solitary vibes and dramatic terrain to explore.
• Kheerganga: Kheerganga is a very popular destination of Himachal Pradesh for its beautiful location and hot water springs. It is often associated with Lord Shiva and his son Kartikeya and believed they have meditated here. Here you can find apple orchards and lush meadows filled with colorful flowers.
• Thrilling High-Altitude Pass (5,319 m): Pin Parvati Pass offers an adventure journey through glaciers, alpine meadows and rocky terrains. It makes this pass more challenging but thrilling and fulfilling. It's ideal for the trekkers who seek adventure and thrill.

Difficulty Level of the Pin Parvati Pass Trek

Pin Parvati Pass is located at an altitude of approx 5,319 m (17,450 ft). It is considered a challenging or difficult trek which requires prior high-altitude trekking experience or at least a fit body with strong will power. 

Pin Parvati Pass terrain includes dense forests (Great Himalayan National Park area), alpine meadows, rocky moraines, glacier crossings, boulders, scree and high-altitude passes. This type of difficult terrain is not suitable for kids, families and solo trekkers.

Total trek duration is 10-12 days including travel and acclimatization. Average walking hours 6 to 9 per day which can stretch to 10-12 hrs on some days. At high-altitude there can be thin oxygen and risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) is high. Proper acclimatization is mandatory for trekkers.

Weather conditions are also unpredictable. Snow storms and whiteouts may take place. Trekkers must be updated on weather conditions.

Pin Parvati Pass trek is not ideal for solo trekkers as the technical challenges are involved. Trekkers need expert guidance and technical support such as rope, crampons and ice axes. Overall, this trek is ideal for seasoned trekkers who have prior trekking experience in Himachal or Indian Himalayas.

Best Time to Visit Pin Parvati Pass Trek

The best time to trek in Pin Parvati Pass is from July to mid-September. Though it's monsoon time, during this period the pass is mostly snow free and weather conditions are favourable.

July to August

This time snow starts to melt and streams are swollen. On lower altitudes, there can be occasional rain. Trails can be slippery in the early sections (Pulga to Tunda Bhuj). Landscapes are lush green and alive.

• Day Temperature: Around 10°C to 18°C
• Night Temperature: Around 1°C to 7°C
  

September to Mid-September

This time the sky is clear and visibility is good. Trails are dry post monsoon. Overall best time to cross the pass. By late September, the risk of snowfall on high-altitude is increased, so better complete the trek by mid-September.

• Day Temperature: 10°C to 15°C
• Night Temperature: 0°C to 5°C
  

How to Reach Pin Parvati Pass Trek

• To reach Pin Parvati Pass trek, start your journey from Bhuntar (Kullu) in Himachal Pradesh. 
• Bhuntar is well-connected by road and air. Bhuntar Airport (KUU) is the nearest airport, approx 50 km from Manali. You can also take an overnight Volvo bus from Delhi or Chandigarh to reach Bhuntar.
• From Bhuntar, start driving towards Barsheni (starting point) via Kasol and Manikaran. The drive takes around 4-5 hrs  to reach Barsheni and offers glimpses of the Parvati Valley.
• From Barsheni, start your trek to Kheerganga, famous for its hot springs. The trek continues through Tunda Bhuj, Thakur Kuan, Odi Thatch and reaches Mantalai Lake.

Route: Kheerganga – Tunda Bhuj – Thakur Kuan – Odi Thatch – Mantalai Lake – Basecamp

• After reaching Mantalai, trekkers climb towards the Pin Parvati basecamp which lies before the actual pass (Pin Parvati Pass) crossing.
• Cross the pass into the Pin Parvati Valley in Spiti. The trek ends at Mudh village. From Mudh, you can drive to Kaza, the nearest major town.

Pin Parvati Pass Trek Route Map

Trek Route Map - Pin Parvati Pass (As per Himalaya Shelter itinerary)

• Day 1: Kasol – Barshaini – Kheerganga (9,200 ft)

Drive to Barshaini, then trek through dense forests and waterfalls to Kheerganga (9 km, 5–6 hrs).

• Day 2: Kheerganga – Tunda Bhuj (10,500 ft)

Gradual climb through forest, waterfalls and meadows (12 km, 6–7 hrs).

• Day 3: Tunda Bhuj – Thakur Kuan (11,800 ft)

Cross wooden bridges, natural rock bridges and tricky terrain (11 km, 6–7 hrs).

• Day 4: Thakur Kuan – Odi Thach (12,300 ft)

Walk along Parvati River; pass the Pandu Pul natural bridge (9 km, 4–5 hrs).

• Day 5: Odi Thach – Mantalai Lake (13,300 ft)

Trek gets steeper, reach the sacred Mantalai Lake (12 km, 6–7 hrs).

• Day 6: Acclimatization at Mantalai Lake

Rest and acclimatize at high altitude.

• Day 7: Mantalai – Base Camp (15,700 ft)

Steep ascent through boulder fields and moraine zone (8 km, 6 hrs).

• Day 8: Base Camp – Pin Parvati Pass (17,500 ft) – Pin Side Camp (16,000 ft)

Cross the high-altitude pass with snow and glaciers; descend into the Spiti side (14 km, 8–10 hrs).

• Day 9: Pin Side Camp – Mudh Village (12,300 ft)

Easy descent through Spiti landscapes to Mudh (16 km, 6–7 hrs). Drive to Kaza if time allows.

• Day 10: Buffer Day