Information and Tips on Trekking in Himachal Pradesh

This mountainous state, with its vast variety of terrains, offers a wide range of treks from easy, one-day hikes to week-long ' routes. At lower altitudes, trails wind through a cone from forests of oak, deodar (Cedrus deodara) and a deodar tree pine, while steeper climbs lead to flower-strewn alpine meadows above the tree line. The towns of Manali and Dharamsala are starting; points for several popular treks. The best season for trekking is during the month of June, and then later between mid-September and October, after the monsoon. During the rains (June—September), the trans-Himalayan cold deserts of Spiti and Upper Kinnaur: Ale ideal destinations, completely shielded from monsoon showers.

Dharamsala to Macchetar

A challenging 75-km (47-mile) route crosses rocky terrain to the meadows at Triund. A steep ascent leads to the Indrahar Pass, with views of the Pir Panjal peaks, and ends at the small town of Macchetar, connected by road to Chamba.

Altitude: 4,350 m (14,272 ft)

Level of difficulty: moderate to tought

Starting at Palchan near Manali, a 30-km (19-mile) round trip to the glacial lake of Beas Kund, leads past the ski station at Solang and over glacial moraine to the lake, surrounded by snow-clad peaks. Also Visit - Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages

Altitude: 3,980 m (13,058 ft)

Level of difficulty: easy

Naggar to Jari

This 40-k111 (25-mile) trek crosses the Chandrakhani Pass, offering fine views qf the peaks surrounding Solang Nala, and leads past the isolated Malawi village (see p128) to end at fart in Parvati Valley.

Altitude: 3,500 m (11,483 ft)

Level of difficulty: moderate

The Pin Valley Trek

Starting at Manikaran, famous for its hot springs, the 130-kin (81-mile) path goes over the Pin-Parvati Pass to the cold desert region of the beautiful Pin Valley. It ends at Mikkim, 40 km (25 miles) from the main roadhead at Kaza.

Altitude: 5,319 m (17,451 ft)

Level of difficulty: tough

Practical Tips

Be prepared: Acclimatization 6 essential for areas over 3,000 m (9,843 ft). See p767 for tips on altitude sickness. Guides are needed as maps are insufficient for safe passage across glaciers. For details on trekking see p751.

On the trek: Drink plenty of water. Carry a first aid kit and cooking fuel. Never burn wood, which is a scarce resource. Put out all fires properly, leaving no burning embers. Do not litter, and carry your rubbish back with you.

Permits: Foreign visitors require travel permits for parts of Spiti and Kinnaur, obtainable from the district or subdivisional magistrate's offices in Shimla, Rekong Peo, Kaza and Kullu. The offices at Kaza, and Rekong Peo are the most efficient.

Equipment hire & operators: The Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports in Manali and Yeti Trekking in McLeodganj organize treks. The Regional Mountaineering Centre in McLeodganj, offers mountaineering courses in Manali; Himalayan Adventures, is a reputable rafting agency, the Himalayan Institute of Adventure Sports offers paragliding, and Himalayan Journeys, offers mountain biking.

Caution: Trekkers have gone missing in Parvati Valley. It is advisable to trek in groups and to take an experienced guide along.

For more information and tips on trekking in Himachal Pradesh contact Swan Tours one of the leading travel agents in India.