TREK DIFFICULTY
Difficult
TREK DURATION
6 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
13780 Feet
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
50
BASECAMP
Himachal Pradesh
BEST TIME
April to Nov
PICKUP POINT
Himachal Pradesh
Sar Pass, located in Parvati Valley of Kullu district, is a frozen bay of Himachal Pradesh and a trek to this beautiful place is an unforgettable experience. The trek begins in Kasol and will take you through the lush forests of Parvati Valley leading you to Grahan Valley. Camping under the infinite stars here is an amazing experience.
As you move along the trek after such a refreshing experience, you’ll pass through the pine and Deodar-dotted trails of Chanderkhani to Nagaru. The trek will lead you to the pristine white surroundings of Sar Lake, rewarding your efforts with its magnificent beauty.
The total distance of trek is around 50 km and takes 5 to 6 days to complete. The highest point of trek is Sar Pass, located at an altitude of around 4,200 m (13,800 ft). The trek includes major snow sections, walking on snow or a thrilling snow slide while descending on the pass makes it the top choice of snow lovers and adventure seekers.
The best time to do the Sar Pass trek is May-June and September-October. Whether changes quickly in this region and acclimatization plays a crucial role. It is best suitable for experienced trekkers. Overall, the Sar Pass trek offers you to experience the core Himalayan beauty with few challenges but countless unforgettable memories.
The name 'Sar' means a small lake which is considered sacred in various cultures. Though there's no lake present, Sar Pass suggests a frozen lake-like area which hardly melts until peak summer.
It lies in famous Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh. Parvati Valley is believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati, the daughter of Himalayas, meditated for years. The valley is named after her and the whole region is considered holy and revered due to it.
There's no particular historical records available regarding the Sar Pass region but it was a part of ancient trade routes and local shepherd trails. Tribes from Kullu and Spiti regions used these high passes to move their livestock.
Post 1990s, the region nearby Kullu, started gaining popularity due to increase of tourism. Tourists started exploring new places for trekking and adventure. Organizations like YHAI (Youth Hostels Association of India) promoted it by organizing professional trekking. Boosting tourism helped grow the economy of the region. Guesthouses, homestays, food and transport services opened to facilitate tourists. Today, despite its popularity and advancement, Sar Pass trek still retains its natural charm and offers a true Himalayan trekking experience.
Mini Israel at Kasol:
Kasol serves as a basecamp and a scenic campsite of Sar Pass trek. It is a small village, sometimes called a 'Mini Israel' due to its large Israeli travel base. You can see the fusion of Indian and Israeli cultures here: Hebrew signboards and cozy cafes offering the Middle Eastern food make this place a cultural surprise.
Grahan Village – A Hidden Gem:
Sar Pass trek's trail passes through Grahan which is a peaceful remote village surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks, waterfalls and pine forests. Here you can see stone houses and wooden temples which represent untouched Himachali lifestyle. Unlike Kasol and Tosh, Grahan is relatively unknown to mainstream tourists, this is why it is also called a 'hidden hamlet'.
Pine, Rhododendron & Walnut Forests:
Trails of Sar Pass are full of forest sections, especially the section between Kasol and Min Thach is full of dense forests of pine, rhododendron and walnut. These trees are very enchanting with birds chirping on them and the sound of rivers. In summer times, their lush green appearances catch the eyes of photographs and nature lovers.
Snow Slide Adventure:
Sar Pass trek is full of thrill and adventure. One of the main highlights of this trek is sliding on snow. After the summit of Sar Pass, trekkers slide on snow while descending. Descending can be done on foot but trekkers prefer sliding for having fun and adventure. This experience is very rare and adds uniqueness and playfulness to Himalayan journey.
Biskeri Thach’s Meadows:
Biskeri Thach is one of the most underrated campsites of the trek. This site looks very beautiful with snow-capped peaks, alpine flowers and open grass pastures. Due to its raw and mesmerizing beauty, it looks straight out of a fairy tale and offers a perfect place to unwind far away from the crowd.
Sar Pass, located in Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is considered a moderate to difficult trek. It is located at the altitude of around 4,220 m (13,845 ft) and best suitable for experienced trekkers. Fit beginners, adventurous families and teens (above 14 years) can also do this trek with proper caution and preparation.
The terrain of Sar Pass is highly diverse. It ranges from dense forests to lush meadows, rocky trails, icy slopes, glacial zones and thrilling snow slides.
The total trek duration is around 5 to 6 days which covers approx 48-50 km, depending on the route. Trekkers have to walk 5 to 7 hours daily. One of the most challenging parts is the pass crossing day, where you ascend snow slopes early in the morning and descend steep ridges later in the day.
Weather conditions can be unpredictable at higher altitudes. Snowfields can be present even during the summer. Sudden rainfall and hailstorm can add difficulty.
Though the trek doesn't require any technical climbing, taking support of an experienced guide or joining a well-organized trekking team is advisable for navigation and emergencies.
The best time to explore the Sar Pass is during the summer and autumn seasons. During these windows, the trail becomes accessible with minimal snow blockages and suitable weather conditions.
Most of the trekking sessions start in June. This time snow starts and leaves the meadows lush green with full of blooming wild flowers. Days are pleasant this time but nights can be chilly. You can find some snow patches remaining at higher elevations.
This is the best time to visit Sar Pass as rain goes away and sky is clear. You can clearly view the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Landscapes are fresh and give peaceful vibes. Trails are less crowded. The time is ideal for photography lovers for clear and crisp visibility of surrounding nature.
Day 1: Kasol to Grahan Village (7 km / 4-5 hrs)
Start from Kasol
Trek through pine forests and scenic trails
Overnight stay at Grahan Village
Day 2: Grahan to Min Thach (7 km / 4-5 hrs)
Steep ascent through forest trails
Beautiful views of Nagaru ridge
Camp at Min Thach
Day 3: Min Thach to Nagaru (4-5 km / 4 hrs)
Gradual to steep climb
Cold and windy at Nagaru
Stay in tents under starry skies
Day 4: Nagaru to Sar Pass to Biskeri Thach (14 km / 7-8 hrs)
Early morning start
Cross snow-covered Sar Pass (4,220 m)
Long descent to Biskeri Thach
Camp in a scenic meadow
Day 5: Biskeri Thach to Barshaini – Drive to Kasol (10 km trek / 4 hrs)
Easy downhill walk through forests and villages
Reach Barshaini
Drive back to Kasol
Day 6: Buffer/Departure Day
Extra day in case of weather delays or travel buffer
In Himalaya Shelter, we provide you with the option to customize your Sar Pass trekking experience. Whether you're a beginner, solo traveller or a group of friends, you can opt for our personalized tailor-made trekking program. This customized trek will be exclusively designed for you, taking into account your specific requirements for transportation, accommodation, meals and any other premium facilities you may need during the trek.
Sar Pass trek starts from Kasol, a scenic and popular destination. From Kasol you head on your journey to Sar Pass. Himalaya Shelter ensures your journey is safe and memorable with experienced local guides 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 trek will enable you to fully enjoy the trek with your loved ones.
Day 1: Kasol to Grahan Village | 10 km Trek in 4 to 5 hrs
The trek begins from Kasol, winding through pine forests along the Grahan Nallah. The trail is a mix of gentle and steep sections, eventually leading to the quaint Grahan Village where you stay overnight.
Day 2: Grahan to Min thach | 7 km Trek in 4 to 5 hrs
A steeper climb today takes you through dense forests and opens up to alpine meadows. The trail offers stunning views of the Nagaru ridge as you reach the picturesque campsite at Min Thach.
Day 3: Min Thatch to Nagaru | 8 km Trek in 5 to 6 hrs
A shorter but steeper trek ascends to Nagaru, situated on a windy ridge. With fewer trees and more exposure, the campsite here offers dramatic views of the Parvati Valley under a starry night sky.
Day 4: Nagaru to Sar pass and Trek to Bikeri Thatch | 14 km Trek in 7 to 8 hrs
Start early to cross the snow-covered Sar Pass (4,220 m). After reaching the top, descend through snowfields and forests to reach the lush meadows of Biskeri Thach, one of the most scenic campsites on the trek.
Day 5: Bikseri Thatch to Burseni | 10 km Trek in 4 to 5 hrs
An easy downhill walk through forests and village trails brings you to Barshaini. From here, drive back to Kasol, marking the end of your trekking adventure.
Day 6: Buffer/Departure Day
Kept as a buffer in case of weather delays. If unused, explore Kasol or nearby areas before departure.
Inclusion
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.
Exclusion
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya.
In Parvati Valley, Himachal Pradesh, near Kasol.
Around 4,220 meters (13,845 feet).
Moderate; suitable for beginners with good fitness.
5 to 6 days.
Not necessary but basic fitness is required.
Yes, especially with organized groups or guides.
Yes, forest/entry permits are needed.
Not recommended for kids below 10 years.
Forest trails, snowfields, Grahan village and high-altitude pass.