Pin Parvati Pass Trek

Trek Fee

₹ 52000

$ 593

+ 5% GST | + Rs 180 Trek Insurance

View Dates & Register
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TREK DIFFICULTY
Difficult
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TREK DURATION
10 Days
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HIGHEST ALTITUDE
17,460 Feet
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GROUP SIZE
12 People
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TOTAL TREK DISTANCE
110 Km
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BASECAMP
Himachal Pradesh
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BEST TIME
July to Aug
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PICKUP POINT
Himachal Pradesh
TREK DIFFICULTY
Difficult
TREK DURATION
10 days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE 17,460 Feet GROUP SIZE 12 People
TOTAL TREK DISTANCE 110 Km BASECAMP Himachal Pradesh
BEST TIME July to Aug PICKUP POINT Himachal Pradesh
 

Pin Parvati Pass Trek Overview

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

Trek Fee

$593

₹52000

+ 5% GST
Optional Addition

Cancellation policy


 

Customize Your Pin Parvati Pass Trek with Himalaya Shelter (HS)

In Himalaya Shelter, we provide you with the option to customize your Pin Parvati Pass trek experience. Whether you're an avid mountaineer, an adventure seeker or a group of friends, you can opt for our personalized tailor-made expedition program. This customized program will be exclusively designed for you, taking into account your specific requirements for transportation, accommodation, meals, technical equipment and any other premium facilities you may need during the climb. 

Starting from Manali (pick up point), the Pin Parvati Pass trek passes through scenic destinations such as Kasol, Barsheni, Kheerganga, Tunda Bhuj, Thakur Kuan, Odi Thatch and reach to Mantalai Lake (basecamp). From here, you start crossing the pass.

Himalaya Shelter ensures your journey is safe and memorable with experienced local guides, technical support and all necessary permits. You can even request offbeat routes or sunrise hikes for a more immersive Himalayan experience.

Moreover, no other participants will be added to your group. Choosing a customized program will enable you to enjoy your journey without any hesitation.


How Does Each Day Look

- Complete day-wise Itinerary


Frequently Asked Questions

- Get your questions answered here

It is located in Himachal Pradesh and connects Parvati Valley (Kullu) with Pin Valley (Spiti).

Approx. 5,319 m (17,450 ft).

Yes. Suitable only for experienced trekkers.

Pin Parvati Pass trek duration is typically 10 to 12 days.

Barshaini near Kasol, Himachal Pradesh.

At Mudh village in the Spiti Valley.

From mid-July to mid-September.

No, it’s not suitable for beginners. It's advisable to go with an experienced guide.

No, the trek is difficult, not suitable for kids and families.

Only at campsites with organized trekking groups.

Kheerganga, Mantalai Lake, Pin Valley, Parvati River, Pandu Bridge.

Yes. It crosses from lush Kullu to barren Spiti, two contrasting regions.

Yes, permits are needed, especially to enter Pin Valley National Park.


Inclusions & Exclusions

- Know What's Included & Excluded in Your Adventure!

Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.

INCLUSIONS

  • TRANSPORTATION -  Drive from Shimla to Kafnu at an additional cost of INR 2,000 per person.  Pickup time: 6:30 am, Old Bus Stand, Shimla  ( Last Day: Drive from Mud to Manali at an additional cost of INR 3,000 per person. Expect to reach Manali by 6:30 PM. )
  • Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
    On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek.
  • Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
  • Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
  • Permission  -  Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
  • Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
  • Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
  • Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.

Trek Exclusions

  • Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
  • Travel Expenses -  Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
    From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC.
  • Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups. 
  • Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day.
  • Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
  • Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader. 
  • Anything apart from inclusions
  • Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.

Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱


 

Pin Parvati Pass Trek Videos


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Trek Fee

$ 593

₹ 52000 /Per serson

+ 5% GST | + Rs 180 Trek Insurance

Inclusions and Exclusions, Scholarships & waivers, Cancellation policy