Overview

Region: Parvati Valley

     Total Duration – 4 Nights / 5 Days

     Maximum Altitude – 4182 m/ 13800 ft

     Grade – Moderate.

     Best Season – May  to October

     Accommodation – Hotel/Guesthouse; Organized Campsite

     Food – On trek – All meals included

     Distance – 48 km

Sar pass is one of the most popular trails in Shivalik range. Sar, in local dialect, means a lake. Sar Pass is a moderately challenging trek in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, situated at an altitude of 14000 ft, it can be considered as a great introduction to high altitude trekking. This trek is also very popular amongst Indian trekkers. Sar valley overlooks the beautiful Parvati valley abundant in natural treasure. The valley is surrounded by snow clad mountains, perennial streams, waterfalls, and lush green forests. It is the seventh heaven for any adventurous traveler and nature lovers.

The base camp for Sar pass trek is at Kasol. It is surrounded by snow capped mountains temperate climate and elegant pine forests. It resembles much the beauty of molten gold in the first and last beams of sunlight. It is truly breath taking to watch the sunset or sunrise from this point. Kasol is the base for most of the trekking trails in the Parvati valley. It is also called as the little Israel of India. So Kasol offers a genuine Israeli food and such other cuisines like Indian, Continental etc. Kasol is located near to the Manikaran, a holy pilgrimage for Hindus and Sikhs. Manikaran also has the hot water springs which are known widely. The serene meadows on the way are a sight to see. After driving for about an hour the trail commences. The trail is packed with dense forests, streams, waterfalls and rocky terrain. The trail to the camp is moderate but steep at the end. Camp is at remote village Grahan. It is as picturesque as its predecessors. Grahan is an ancient village with traditional Himalayan houses surrounded by rhododendron trees. The ascent after Grahan is steep and strenuous. Slow and steady pace of walking is advisable as it assures good acclimatization. Minh Thach is the next campsite, where locals used to graze their livestock. Then we reach Nagaru, which is the last camp before reaching Sar pass.  It is a freezing site because of the gusty winds and cold nights. After a long and arduous trek, the sight that Sar pass offers seems like an illusion in it’s beauty and spirit. The top of the Sar pass offers a magnificent view of Himalayan Peaks and meadows. The descent down to Bishkeri is moderate through rhododendron forests. Bhishkeri is a striking meadow campsite with multiple flowers and birds species. One can rejuvenate himself by spending a night at this place. From Bishkeri to Barshaini is a exciting downhill terrain through lush green forests. On the way twin villages Pulga and Tulga will pass by. Then cross the river Parvati and climb for a while till road head at Barshaini. Take bus or taxi to Manikaran. From here depart to your preferred locations.

Trekking, after all, is about the joy of solitude and silence, as much as it is about forming everlasting friendships. If you are interested in doing this trek, minus the fanfare of fixed departures, you can book with one of the local operators in the Great Wide Open Adventure Travel Network and cross the Sar Pass, with just your own friends for company. The trail is accessible between April to October every year.

 

How To Reach Manali

Distance by road:-

Manali is well connected to Delhi. Take an overnight bus from Delhi and you will reach Manali in 12 ‐ 14 hours(approx 540 km's). Tickets can be booked online at www.redbus.in or www.hrtc.gov.in Tip : Since Delhi Manali is a long journey most Volvo private buses leave Delhi between 5 pm and 6 pm. The last govt bus leaves at 8.30 pm from ISBT Kashmere Gate. Volvo buses charge between Rs.1,000 to 1,400 per sector from Delhi to Manali and vice versa. Manali to Delhi: Like the onward journey, buses leave from Manali to Delhi between 4 and 5 p.m. Your tentative arrival at Delhi may be anywhere between 6 a.m and 10 a.m. Plan your onward journeys only post noon giving enough buffer for bus delay.

Nearest Railway Station:-

Nearest Railway station is Ambala (350 km's) and Chandigarh (310 km's) Tip: Regular Volvo and Buses are available from Chandigarh to Manali in the evening. Volvo buses charge between Rs.800 to Rs.1,200 per sector from Chandigarh to Manali and vice versa.

Nearest Airport :-

Nearest Airport is Bhuntar, which is 52 km away from Manali, is the nearest airport. Taxi services are available from Bhuntar to Manali, which costs about Rs.1000 ‐ Rs.2,000. Bhuntar is well connected to Delhi by air. Check the operating flights to Kullu as due to weather conditions flights gets cancelled.

4 Nights 5 Days Available on request Himachal Pradesh
Strength Level
Moderate
Highlights

Fix Departure tariff 5,900/- + GST of 5%

Rates are excluding GST of 5%

Note that the cost would vary for customized group according to their requirements

Itinerary

Trek Schedule: 

Detailed Itinerary

 

Day 1: Kasol - Grahan village  1700m - 2350m (7- 8km. trek) (5-6hrs.)

8:00 AM Reporting at early morning get fresh n up and get ready for the trek .

8:15 AM - Short Briefing and Luggage deposit.

9:00 AM - Move from Kasol. It will take approximately 10 minutes to reach the trek trail.

The trekking will start from Kasol to Grahan village. First drive on road till the trail starts. The trail leading upto the village is frequently used by the locals and you might found villagers passing by. The trail leads through lush green dense forest, streams and waterfalls. The trail is easy at initial. Soon the gradient transforms into rocky and steep after crossing the Grahan Nallah. As we get closer to the Grahan Village the trail becomes pretty steep for a while and the village is visible. The campsite at Grahan is located near to the village and is surrounded by the Rhododendron trees. Grahan village is as ancient as hundreds of years. One can charm traditional houses beautiful evenings and take pics of the locals near the camp. The beauty at the camp becomes more comfortable and scenic as one gets acquainted, this camp is heaven for photographers, artists and nature lovers. Spend the night at serene campsite.
Meals : All meals provided except breakfast. 

 

Day 2: Grahan - Min Thach  2350m - 3400m (6 - 7hrs) ( Approx 7- 8kms)

Today we trek about 6 to 7 hours to Min Thach. The trail to Min Thach is usually used by the locals to take their livestock to higher pastures. The trail offers great range of flora and fauna birds, insects etc.  As we go higher the trail becomes steeper and leads into the woods. On the way we stop at amazing lunch point in between the forest at Ratapani. The mesmerizing thick canopy can be witnessed while passing through the dense forest. The trail through the forest eventually opens up to a grassy patch of land.  After that the forest will vanish slowly and open grounds and valleys are visible. One can admire the snow capped mountains and valley below. Before approaching to the camp we have to climb a steep section. The Min Thach is located on the hillock and is surrounded by the flat rocks. The sunset and sunrises at this camp offers great views. One can also cherish gazing stars and milky way at night.
 Meals : All meals provided.

Day 3: Min Thach  - Nagaru   3400m - 3800m  (5 - 6hrs. ) (8-9kms)

On this day make an early start to approach Nagaru. The trail today is comparatively steep than the previous route. It will take about 7 hrs. to reach Nagaru. The trail climbs through pastoral forests to snow covered meadows, which makes it little tricky. As you climb higher the air becomes thinner and you might face little altitude sickness such as headache, dizziness. These symtoms are normal reaction of the body. So take as much water and keep your hands, nose, eyes and ears open to acclimatize better. But in any odd situation, we provide all the facilities including the first aid kit, portal oxygen, oxymeter and pulsemeter. While getting closer to the camp chilling winds hits on your face, that realizes one of the altitude gained. The surroundings become more open and broad at these heights (12,500ft.). It is a coldest campsite of the whole trek because of the gusty winds. The temperature can go below zero at nights. Once you reach the campsite at Nagaru one would experience picturesque views of magnificent mountains across the Parvati Valley. Enjoy the sunset painting the sky with different colours and the night full of stars at this beautiful campsite.
Meals : All meals provided.  

Day 04: Nagaru - Sar Pass - Bishkeri  3800m - 4182m - 3350m (7-9hrs.) (12-13km.) 

Again make an early start for a long trekking day. The trail comes with snow and steep tracks on most of the route till the pass and beyond. After climbing the Nagaru ridge, the trail is moderate. On the way there is a canteen near the lake where one can have maggi, tea, coffee etc. Climbing higher to the pass offers mind blowing views of the stunning meadows and towering peaks of Parvati valley. One should walk slow and steady while climbing upwards. Though walking on the snow is easier. As approaching to the top the gradient becomes steeper just few meters below the pass. That’s the only steep part needed to be crossed for the day. Reaching at the top of the pass gives a feeling of satisfaction by looking at the mighty Himalayan snow capped peaks green meadows and the trail below.  One can spend some time at the Sar pass having his packed lunch and taking pics. After the pass there is a great slope ideal for sliding which takes one a kilometer far within minutes. Then continue trekking down on gentler slopes through rhododendron trees till the Bishkeri Thach. After a long tiring day the lush green meadows, wildflowers and variety of birds at Bishkeri can rejuvenate your body and mind with energy. We’ll camp for a night at this soothing site.
Meals : All meals provided.

Day 05: Bishkeri - Barshaini - Manikaran  3350m - 2400m (4–6hrs) (9-10km.)

The trail from Bishkeri to Barshaini is mixed with downhill to moderate. On this route one has to be careful walking each step on the slope.  Again walking slow and steady will help one to approach the roadhead easily. We will climb down through dense forests of deodar oak and pine. Many little streams will pass by the trail. On the way beautiful meadows huge trees, piles of fallen and rotten logs will give a prehistoric feeling. Herds of wild cows, bulls and horses can be seen on lower pastures. One can taste lassi (Buttermilk) sold by the locals while climbing down. Couple of tea shops will pass by, where one can enjoy their preferred food.  After hours of mesmerizing forest trek we reach at Pulga village. From there moderate walk to Tulga village. Then cross the Parvati river and climb for a while to reach  Barshaini. From Barshaini we will take bus or taxi. Then we reach Manikaran in an hour. Manikaran is a most famous hot spring you can find in Kullu - Manali region. It is also one of the sacred place for Hindus and Sikhs. After Manikaran one can depart for their preferred destinations.
Meals : Breakfast/Brunch provided.

After reading through the itineraries, we are sure you want to join the family of Himalayan destination by joining this trek. Good luck!!! 

 

Things to Carry:-

  • Trekking Shoes: You need good trekking shoes with good grip & ankle support. Do not carry sport shoes.
  • Clothing: You need to have warm clothes with single layer feather/fiber jacket warm, fleece or down feather jacket. Carry 1 or 2 full sleeves t-shirt. For lowers carry cotton pants suitable for trek. Do no carry jeans or shorts for trekking.
  • Thermals: Carry top and bottom thermals.
  • Socks: 2 pair regular socks and 2 pair woolen / warm socks.
  • Headlamps / touch with extra batteries.
  • Sunglasses: To protect from sunlight in snow you require UV rays protected sunglasses.
  • Woolen Cap and Gloves are also necessary as the climate will be cold. Carry waterproof gloves as they get wet in snow.
  • Lunchbox & Water bottle: Every participant should carry Lunch box, water bottle, plates,cup and spoon of their own.
  • Raincoat/Ponchos: At high altitudes, snowfall and rain are quite common and it’s mandatory to carry a poncho so that one doesn’t get wet.

 

  • Mandatory Documents:

a) Registration Form

b) Medical Certificate (signed by a registered MBBS doctor)

c) NOC form (by trekker)

Inclusions/Exclusions

What is included in the tour

  •  Accommodation on sharing basis. Separate for male and female. For twin sharing extra charges will be applicable.
  • Transport required in the trek by bus.
  • Highly advanced & certified mountaineering guide from Himalaya Destination
  • Skilled Guide who has ample knowledge of the route.
  • Cloak room to keep extra luggage.
  • Vegetarian meals on the trek (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner). Vegetarian meals only., jain food will be provided.
  • Cooks/Helper and other requisite staff.
  • Porters/mules for carrying common equipment (like rations/tents/utensils/)
  • High quality tents and sleeping bags in all the camps. Sleeping bags can withstand temperature as low as -10 ºC.
  • First aid kit, oxygen cylinders, oximeter, medicines etc. will be with guide/trek leader and at camp site as well to deal with emergencies
  • All trekking, Forest Permits and camping charges are included.

What is NOT included in the tour

  • GST 5%
  • Personal Porters for carrying trekker’s backpacks
  • Personal insurance or cost of emergency evacuation
  • Purchases of personal natures (like mineral water bottles/bottled or canned beverages/chocolates/dry fruits etc.)
  • Food to/from the trail head and at the 1st base camp.
FAQs
Sar Pass trek is located in the Parvati valley of Kullu Himachal Pradesh. The trek starts from the little town of Kasol. So one has to reach Kasol, in Manikaran by taking Bus or taxi.
The trek is easy to moderate with steep incline and downhill. This trek doesn’t need any previous trekking experience but demands physical fitness. The pass is nearly a vertical incline and equally steep downhill on the other. Sar pass altitudes 13,800ft. so there are chances of mountain sickness for some people as the air becomes thinner above 12,000ft and increases the difficulty level. So it is necessary to acclimatize with the conditions of the area. Regular exercises would also help adapt the environment.
The best time for Sar Pass trek starts from the month of May till September. During these months the valley is covered with foliage and the temperature is decent. The level of snow is considerably higher in the month of May which begins to melt in June.
You can carry a voters ID or Aadhar ID card along with you. Registeration form, Medical form and 2 passport size photos are necessarily submitted duly to the company.
The weather is generally sunny and good on this trek. But sometimes it may rain or snow at high altitudes. Weather is unpredictable at the top it can change clear sky into thunderstorm.
For this trek you need to have good physical fitness and it can be achieved by routine exercises.Start exercising, playing outdoor games a month before the trek. This will help adapt your body to less oxygen levels to steep inclines. The trek is ideal for beginners. Jog for at least 5kms completing in 35 to 40 mins.
Good trekking shoes with high ankle would be the best option for this trek. One can buy Quechua shoes which are reasonably good with cost and durability. We recommend you to buy your shoes a week before to get comfortable with it to avoid blisters and sores later on the trek. Sports shoes should be avoided as they do not have any grip ending in slips and injuries. Also carrying 3 – 4 pairs of socks is necessary.
Yes, you can hire a porter or a mule to carry your luggage. You just have to intimate us 10 days before the trek commences. We will arrange a porter or a mule accordingly. The offloading will cost 1000/- each day.
Your load will depend on your requirements of things that are packed in your sack. You have to carry 8-10 kg of weight with all your clothing’s, energy bars, dry fruits, water bottle, cameras etc.
No, absolutely not. Liquor and smoking is strictly not allowed during the trek. This causes dehydration on higher altitude which is an invitation to AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) We recommend you not to take such things along with or you would be disqualified and sent back to road head in between of the trek.
Yes, this trek is totally safe for females and solo trekker. There are lots of female trekkers who had trekked with us and we are very particular about the safety and security of females. If there are females on the trek we provide them personal tents, their tents are only shared by another female and no other males.
Yes mountain water is drinkable. Mountain water is natural source of drinking water and is full of minerals. Thousands of people living in the mountains rely on the water coming down from the glaciers. One can drink water directly from the streams en route while trekking or one can ask guide or instructors, from where they can fill water. If someone is unsure one can carry chlorine tablets along with them. But we recommend this water for drinking as it makes acclimatization faster.
Nutritious vegetarian food is provided during the trek. You will be having breakfast, lunch evening snacks and dinner. Vegetarian food is easy to digest and is healthy at high altitudes. In addition to it coffee and hot drinks soups will also be served.
Normally we take group consisting of single to multiple peoples. The group size depends on what type of trekking terrain is. For this trek we will take 10-15 people at a time. The group could be mix of men and women both.
Yes, you can customize the trek to your convenience. You can choose any trek options, time and no. of people to participate. The cost for customized trip or trek would vary depending on the group size, trekking area, duration and trek style.
The temperature will be much colder than ones thoughts. At day times weather is clear and warm but it will drop to -15 degrees at nights. At higher altitudes weather is unpredictable too. So be prepared with multiple layers of warm clothing’s.
The group will be lead by the professional instructors, guides and local staff. These people are well qualified with ample knowledge and experience to ensure safety and security of group. The staff is cooperative and helpful whenever needed. So be humble, respectful, cooperative and helpful whenever needed. So be humble and respectful to the staff, then one will enjoy the trek in decent manner.
The average trekking distance is about 10 - 12km per day which will take 5 - 6 hours a day. Enjoy trekking on route don’t get discouraged.
Yes you can make calls on this trek. There are only few places where you wouldn’t find network but on rest of the route the network is found. The Reliance, BSNL, Airtel, Vodafone all networks work well.
Yes, you can carry medicines. It is good to carry some basic medicines to avoid chances of sickness on high altitude trekking. For this we have list of some medicines written below: Crepe bandage (3-5 m), Band aid (10 strips), cotton (1 roll), ORS (4-5pk), Volini spray, providine, Crocin tablets, Avomine, Combiflam, Disprin, Digene, Spasimonil, Diamox, Electoral.
In any case of any emergency our staff is skilled and trained for such situations held at high altitude. Our team has a wealth of experience dealing with high altitude sicknesses and urgent situations. We carry first aid kit and oxygen cylinders with us and in any emergency we rescue the trekker till the road head. After reaching road any additional cost of evacuation is borne by the trekker. All and all it is trekkers responsibility to get a certified medical fitness document before coming for the trek, which certifies that the trekker is fit for the trek.
No, after leaving Base camp you won’t find any charging point. For this purpose you can carry a power bank to charge your phone.
Trek preparations are already done previously. We will be offering you any alternate trek or any other option having similar value for money in case of natural calamities. In case of non-completion of trek due to weather conditions there wont be any refund.
Yes, you can reschedule you trek without any charges if it is informed to us 30days prior to trek. If this is delayed, then the charges would apply for trek depending on how many days prior this is being informed.