The Pin Parvati Pass at an elevation of 5,400 meters is one of the high altitude mountain passes in the Indian Himalayan region and was once crossed by Sir Louis Dane in 1884. The Pin Parvati Pass acts a bridge between the fertile and rich Parvati valley of Kullu region and Pin valley of Spiti region. The Pin Parvati Pass trek is a popular trek in Himachal Pradesh, but still it is only attempted by experienced trekkers. Hence most of the valley remains unexplored by amateur trekkers and normal tourists. The Pin Parvati Pass trek is considered as the shortest route between the Kullu and Spiti valley and the journey sees frequent changes of landscape, from evergreen to barren and rugged. During the trail one will also notice and experience the varied cultures secluded within the mountains. The Kullu valley, which is mostly dominated by the Hindus, comes in contrast when you step in to Spiti valley that is inhabited by the Indo – Tibetans. Further, the cultural charisma takes over the traveller’s mind when he mulls over the ancient Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries that reflects several myths and legends. The journey passes through several small hamlets, gushing streams, thick alpine forest, wild life, pristine lakes, glaciers and cattle grazing farms. Walking along the mountains, crossing downhill, snowfield areas, unusual natural rocky bridges, Himalayan brown bears and wild small colorful flowers builds an ever unforgettable flash.

A notable alpine trek in Himachal Pradesh, the Pin Parvati Pass trek commences from Khirganga at 3,020 meters. Khirganga is known for its hot water spring. It is approximately 4 – 5 hours of drive from Manikaran. From Khirganga the trail starts with a moderate climb towards Tunda Bhuj at 3,285 meters and turns to Thakur Kuan at 3,620 meters. Thereafter, the trail continues with a trek uphill to Odi Thach at 3,800 meters and thence snakes through the snow bedded tracks to Mantalai Lake at 4,115 meters. Once at the lake, you can see the Mantalai Glacier, which is the source of river Parvati. On the path, you will see the Pandu Bridge, which is made of a single rock on river Parvati. It is believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their exile in the Himalayas. From Mantalai the trail leads to the base of Pin Parvati and thereafter continues with a steep climb to Pin Parvati Pass. Then the route descends to Tiai at 3,700 meters and further leads to Mud through the barren, stark landscape of Spiti. The Pin Parvati Pass trekking tour then heads to Kaza via Gulling. At Kaza you can visit the Ki monastery, Kibber village, Dhankar monastery and Tabo monastery. Thereafter from Kaza via Kunzum Pass the journey wheels ends at Manali.

Due to its high altitude and frequent uphill and downhill treks, the Pin Parvati Pass trek is considered as one of the most challenging treks in Himachal Pradesh and hence it is recommended for trekkers having prior experience of trekking at high altitudes. The best time to hit the trekking tracks is during the Indian monsoon season, July to September.

Pin Parvati Pass Trek (5300 M)
Days on Trek : 09 Days
Maximum Elevation : 5300 Meters Above sea Level
Starting Point of the Trek : Manikaran in Kullu valley
Rating : Strenuous
Best time : 15 July to 30 August
Highlights : High Himalayan pass, high altitude Mantalai lake, dry cold dessert of Spiti valley, Himalayan wildlife.