TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate - Difficult
TREK DURATION
17 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
4,755 metres
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
61 km
BASECAMP
Himachal
BEST TIME
January, February, March, April, May, June, July. August, September, October, November, December
PICKUP POINT
Delhi
Thamsar Pass Trek is an exquisite and less visited Himalayan trek in Himachal Pradesh. It is ideal for individuals who appreciate quiet mountains, green valleys and pure natural beauty without the traffic path of the tourists. The walk begins in the small traditional villages and gradually leads you through the thick forests, expansive meadows, bridges made of wood and streams. The landscape transforms into rocky walkways and open mountain views as you walk further up the mountain making each day of the journey feel new and exciting.
The best part about this trek is the Thamsar Pass per se, which is located on a high altitude and it provides splendid views of snow-clad mountains and the endless mountain ranges. Arrival at the pass is very much an accomplishment and a sense of joy, and all the more so when you are looking at the full panorama of the Himalayas ahead of you.
There is no highly known written history of the Thamsar Pass Trek as big tourist places, but the local people have been using the pass over many generations. This route was used by people of surrounding valleys to pass through different territories, transport their animals, and trade the products. During ancient days roads did not exist hence mountain passes such as Thamsar played a significant role in daily life. It gradually gained recognition with the adventure enthusiasts as trekkers began to venture into the unexplored Himalayan trails outside the usual tourist trails.
Thamsar Pass was not as commercial as treks and this is the reason it remains mostly untouched and less visited by trekkers searching a peaceful adventure. This route was introduced to the visitors with the assistance of local guides and small trekking organizations that managed to preserve its traditional flair at the same time.
Day 1: Arrival In Delhi
Day 2: Pathankot To Dalhousie and Sightseeing
Day 3: Dalhousie To Bharmour
Day 4: Visit To Bharmour Mata Temple
Day 5: Bharmour To Lakewali Mata
Day 6: Trek From Laakewali Mata To Dharadi
Day 7: Trek From Dharadi To Lake Base Camp
Day 8: Trek From Lake Base Camp To Bara Bhanghal
Day 9: Rest / Sightseeing
Day 10: Trek From Bara Bhanghal To Marhu
Day 11: Trek From Marhu To Alyas Base Camp
Day 12: Trek Alyas Base Camp To Thamsar Pass And Panarthu
Day 13: Panarthu To Bir
Day 14: Bir To Dharamshala
Day 15: Dharamshala To Pathankot
Day 16: Delhi To Agra
Day 17: Agra To Delhi
Among the largest attractions of this hike is the extensive green fields that resemble natural carpets that are dispersed all over the mountains. These open grasslands are ideal in camping, relaxing and having a serene view in every direction. Summer meadows are full of small flowers of various colors, fresh air, and grazing sheep, which contribute to the sense of a very quiet and enchanted location. According to the many trekkers, these meadows are the most refreshing part of the journey.
The journey begins with small Himachali villages where you can get a close view of simple mountain life. Trek in such villages will provide you with an opportunity to learn about local culture, food habits and the everyday way of life. It is as though entering a low-paced and quiet world not in the bustling cities.
Much of the journey is in dense forests with tall trees, birds and natural sounds. These forest areas are shady and cool and therefore, one can comfortably walk even on sunny days. Pine trees and the wind blowing through leaves make the trekking very relaxing. It is as though it is a natural tunnel created by nature itself.
The last and largest attraction is the cross of the Thamsar Pass. Endless mountain ranges, snow-covered peaks, and deep valleys can be observed all around, starting at the top. When there, it feels like great accomplishment and joy when one has finished a day of walking. The sheer views, the panorama, and the cold winds and the open sky make this experience memorable to all trekkers.
Thamsar Pass Trek is generally a moderate level trek. This implies that it is not very easy as short day hikes, but neither is it very hard as technical mountain climbs. This trek can be done by trekkers with good fitness. You are supposed to be okay with walking 6-8 hours with a backpack. Some of the steep ascents and long walking days are involved and thus stamina and patience are valuable. Most healthy individuals can go through the trek with regular walking practice and just some basic exercise before the trek.
This trek is to a high mountain pass and therefore altitude is a significant consideration. The higher you climb, the less dense the air and some individuals might experience fatigue, or slight breathlessness. Slow walking, consumption of water, and adequate rest are very beneficial. Guides normally set up camp in such a manner that your body will have room to acclimatize with the height.
There are numerous varieties of paths on the trail, and this makes it beautiful as well as challenging. You will go through forests, grassy fields, rocky areas, crossings of rivers and steep ascending uphills. There are areas that might be slippery in rain and snow or loose stones or snow can also be found around the pass. Trekking poles and good grip shoes will help to make walking much easier and less tiresome.
You need not be an athlete though but you must have basic fitness. Easy training such as taking daily walks, jogging, climbing up the stairs and stretching over some weeks before the trek is of great help. Well-built legs and stamina will make the journey a lot more pleasant. It is also important to be mentally strong since there are long days and the weat
The time for this trek is summer as the weather is mostly clear and pleasant. The snow begins to melt and the meadows turn green and small colorful flowers sprout out. During the day, the weather is pleasant to walk, and the evenings are not too hot, but can be handled with warm clothes. This time of the year is very clear and mountain views are very clear and hence making photography and camping very pleasant. It is ideal to the novices since the tracks are open and more accessible to walk.
Monsoon is not a good time to trek Thamsar Pass. The mountains appear very green and fresh during this season and waterfalls are even more beautiful. Nevertheless, it may cause trails to be slippery and dangerous due to heavy rain. Mist, leeches and landslides possibilities may also occur in certain places. In case one is intending to hike during the monsoon, he or she should keep heavy rain attire and be prepared to any weather shifts.
Autumn is regarded as the most ideal season of the Thamsar Pass Trek. The days are nice to do trekking and the evenings begin to get colder towards the pass. It has the ideal combination of beauty, safety, and comfortable weather and that is why it is preferred by many trekkers.
Trekking in Thamsar Pass in winter is very risky. Deep snow covers the trails, and it is unsafe and dangerous to walk without special tools and experience. It is only under the winter that professional or highly experienced trekkers attempt it. Most people will not recommend winter since the issue of safety is of great concern.
In doing the Tamsar Pass Trek, it is very crucial to pack the appropriate clothes since the weather of the mountain varies rapidly. Warm clothes such as a good jacket, thermal innerwear, fleece, woolen cap and gloves should be brought as nights close to the pass may be considerably cold even in summer. Pack good windcheater, trekking pants and socks. Trekking shoes with good grip are among the most significant ones, because the path is rocky and slippery in places. During sunny days on higher altitudes, sun glasses, sunscreen and sun cap would also be useful on a sunny day walk.
In addition to clothing, you have to carry necessary trekking gears and personalities. A good backpack with rain cover, reusable water bottle, energy snacks and a small lunch box come in handy very much on the trail. Those that are important to safety are personal medicines, basic first-aid kit, pain relief spray, and band-aids. During the night at camps a torch or a headlamp with additional batteries is required. Trekking poles, hand sanitizer, basic toiletries to keep hygiene, and wet wipes can be packed to lighten the load on the knee. It can be better to carry power bank, camera and small towel with to make the journey more comfortable. The concept is to carry light yet smart, in order to be warm, safe and comfortable during the trek.
Camping in broad green fields with mountains is one of the best activities to engage in this trek. These campsites are serene, open and ideal in unwinding after a long walk. You may sit out in front of your tent, take hot tea, and enjoy the starry nights.
The attractive high-altitude lake is the Thamsar Lake and most trekkers are fond of visiting it on the trip. The water is quite transparent and smooth and it reflects the sky and the surrounding mountains. It is an excellent area to shoot and to have quiet time as well as enjoy nature. The sunset and morning scenes are particularly beautiful here.
In the villages where you start you can have time to talk to the people and observe their simple life in the mountains. There is a warm cultural experience of small wooden houses, farms and smiling faces. It will be possible to make the trek more meaningful and personal trying a local food or learning a few words in the local language.
The most significant highlight activity is to get to the top of the pass. When you are there, and standing in the cold air, and look around and see that there is no end of the Himalayan ranges, it is a great feeling of accomplishment. Most of the trekkers take time in this place relaxing, taking pictures and just enjoying the vast panoramic view before descending.
Attempt to start your hike in early mornings before you have short of daylight and do not feel forced. The morning is generally clear, calm and ideal to see the mountain. When you are late, you might be feeling fatigued or concerned about going home before night. An easy schedule of departure time and arrival time makes the trip easier and more comfortable.
The presence of good trekking shoes with good grip cannot be ignored since some of the paths may be rocky or slippery. Slippers or flat casual shoes should be avoided since they may cause slipping or pain to feet. Wear light clothes rather than just one heavy jacket so that you could vary depending on weather. Wearable clothes will make you walk easily and enjoy the journey without any inconvenience.
Plastic bottles and wrappers should not be discarded on the trail. You can carry a small bag of your garbage and dispose of it in due course. Be respectful to monasteries and the local traditions by remaining calm and polite. Do not use loud music in quiet places. By maintaining the place clean and quiet you will help yourself as well as future travelers to enjoy the experience.
Plan your Thamsar Pass Trek With Himalaya Shelter. You are not restricted to a fixed schedule to go trekking but get to select your own trekking dates, group size and comfort level. In case you want it to be slower, have more rest days, or a more exploratory schedule, their team assists in adapting everything to your fitness and style of travel. This will give the trek a personal experience and not in a hurry; this is more suitable to beginners or family members who would wish to have a comfortable and safe experience.
We assist guides, permits, and camping setups, and even meals, therefore, you do not need to worry about minor details. You will be able to demand superior tents, special food choices, or even to have a bit of sightseeing around the trek prior to or following it. The presence of local experience of experts makes it more confidence-boosting since we are well-informed about the mountain weather, mountain routes, and dominant requirements concerning their safety. All in all, the trek organized by Himalaya Shelter is more comfortable, flexible and fun and still preserves the essence of the real mountain adventure.
Day 1: Arrival In Delhi
Our team will welcome you on your arrival. They shall take you to the hotel. Having taken a bath, you may also do a little sightseeing in Delhi. You will be taking the train from Delhi to Pathankot at night.
Day 2: Pathankot To Dalhousie and Sightseeing
By early in the morning you will arrive at Pathankot. Here our company will take you to Dalhousie. The first stop will be the exploration of this beautiful place after checking in and having refreshed.
Day 3: Dalhousie To Bharmour
A good breakfast will be taken at Dalhousie and then the team will continue to the Kalatop Wild Life Sanctuary and Khajjiar. Lunch will be taken at Khajjiar and the journey will be continued to Bharmour. We are going to see evening Aarti in Chaurasi Temple.
Day 4: Tour to the Bharmani Mata Temple
We will walk to Bharmani Mata Temple after having breakfast. This is a beautiful temple which is situated on a ridge. We will go back to the hotel in the evening after making the prayers.
Day 5: Bharmour To Laakewali Mata
Breakfast will occur at Bharmour and then the team will make their way towards Holi. It is a lovely village known to have orchards. Once you arrive at Holi you can go to the market and have a sightseeing. The group will continue to visit Laakewali Mata temple. Lunch will be served at the temple followed by the setting up of the tents by the team at the camping site.
Day 6: Trek From Laakewali Mata To Dharadi
This time we shall start our journey towards Dharadi. The hike goes through a narrow suspension bridge before hiking to Surie village. We will go on to Urna after getting some rest at Surie. The trek goes around some beautiful villages. By evening we shall arrive at Dharadi and there shall we pitch the tent at a very beautiful place.
Day 7: Trek Dharadi to Lake Base Camp
The current day will begin with a hot breakfast at Dharadi. Following breakfast, the team will proceed to Lake camp. This trek part is not easy but it will be safe in the hands of the guides. Khanar village will be reached after approximately 5 hours. The road after Khanar village is very lovely. By evening you will arrive at Lake Base Camp.
Day 8: Trek From Lake Base camp to Bara Bhangal
There are certain peculiarities of this 10 km walk. The trail is a bit difficult and uneven. You can encounter the Gaddi tribe. Bara Bhangal has various mountain passes around. Arrive at the campsite during the evening and take snacks and dinner.
Day 9: Rest and Sightseeing
Spend your entire day at Bara Bhangal and get your body ready for the next few days. You may visit the village and get a good rest.
Day 10: Trek From Bara Bhangal to Marhu
Now you will begin to walk off between Bara Bhangal and Marhu. It is approximately 9km with some long bridges and rocky areas to cross. The road to Marhu is a gorgeous and clear one.
Day 11: Trek From Marhu To Alyas Base Camp
Any pass has its base camp called Alyas or Lahesh. Thamsar Pass is approximately 7 km away. The location is highly adventurous and snow-covered with rocky areas.
Day 12: Trek From Alyas Base Camp To Thamsar Pass Towards Panarthu.
This trek will begin very early in the morning because it is easier to walk on snow in the morning. The path is hard and strenuous. You must walk steadily on with a few pauses so that you will cross the pass before 1:00 pm. Possibility of snowing or rain is high in the afternoon. Once you cross the pass then you will begin to trek to Panarthu.
Day 13: Trek From Panarthu To Bir
You will start trekking towards Bir. The trail is well-defined yet the distance is approximately 28km. Rajgundha is located after walking 16km. Here you can get a bus, or you can proceed with your walk to Bir.
Day 14: Drive From Bir To Dharamshala
We shall be driving in the morning towards Dharamashala. We will visit some temples and other local places. The local culture can be experienced by exploring the town.
Day 15: Drive From Dharamshala To Pathankot
There are other places to visit in Dharamsala like Monasteries. We will drive back to Pathankot in the afternoon, so as to take the night train to Delhi.
Day 16: Delhi To Agra
Once we get to Delhi, then we will begin travelling to Agra. Estimated time will be 4 hours and you will be able to see the beauty of Taj Mahal. You also have the opportunity of visiting the other monuments in Agra and you can walk around the local market.
Day 17: Drive From Agra To Delhi
After spending half a month together, the team will drive you back to Delhi. We will take our farewell with numerous memories.
It is a moderate level trek.
The most appropriate months are May- June and September- October.
The pass measures approximately 4,600 meters (approx).
Far and away, the network is very low and unavailable at the higher camps.
Camping and mostly tents during the trek.
Days are favourable though nights are extremely chilly and windy.