Himachal has dozens of good treks, but five of them show up on almost every trekker's list. They run from a gentle first pass near Naggar to a ten-day crossing that few people complete.
Altitudes and durations differ between operators, so read the numbers as approximate. All five get easier with training and harder with weather.
The five, from easiest to hardest
A 4 to 5 day crossing from Naggar through Rumsu to the village of Malana, with views of Deo Tibba and the Parvati valley. Often called the easiest of the high passes in the area. See Chandrakhani Pass with Skypath.
A 5-day crossing from the green Kullu side to dry Lahaul, ending at Chatru and often Chandratal. Moderate and very popular. Read the full Hampta Pass guide.
A 4-day trek from the Dhauladhar range near Dharamshala to a pass above Lahaul. Moderate to hard, with steep days and sharp ridges. A good step up for fit first-timers.
A multi-day crossing that links the green Bhaba valley in Kinnaur with the cold desert of Pin valley in Spiti. A long trek of roughly a week or more, with big changes in landscape.
The hardest of the five, a 10 to 12 day crossing from the Parvati valley in Kullu to Spiti. It involves glacier travel, remote camps and long days. Best in July to September and only for experienced trekkers.
How to choose
- First high pass: Chandrakhani or Hampta.
- Second trek with a real challenge: Indrahar Pass.
- Remote and long: Pin Bhaba, once you have trekked above 4,000 m before.
- Expedition-style: Pin Parvati, with a strong team and proper support.
If you are unsure, our comparison of Beas Kund, Bhrigu Lake and Hampta Pass will help you pick a first trek from Manali.
What every one of these needs
- Acclimatisation. All five cross 3,600 m, and three go above 4,300 m. Take it slowly and read the AMS guide.
- Fitness. Build up with weeks of steady walks and stairs. The harder passes need a real base.
- A good leader. River crossings, snow and weather calls are made by people who know the route.
- Spare days. Weather can delay a crossing. A buffer day is cheap insurance.
Seasons in short
Most of these run from June to September, with the Parvati and Spiti side best in July to September. Chandrakhani is possible from April and again in autumn. Always confirm the current trail and weather before you go.
Start with a pass you can finish
Hampta Pass and Chandrakhani Pass both run with certified guides from Manali.