The Pin Parvati Trek is a mesmerizing journey through pristine Himalayan beauty, from the lush green valleys of Parvati to the barren, moon-like landscapes of Spiti. Along the trail, you’ll witness:
- Khirganga’s enchanting meadows and natural hot springs.
- Mantalai Lake, a glacial jewel surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
- Thundering waterfalls, dense pine forests, and vibrant wildflowers.
- The stark, dramatic contrast as you cross into Spiti’s rugged desert.
- Pin Parvati Pass (5,319m), offering breathtaking panoramic views.
- Wildlife sightings like blue sheep, Himalayan foxes, and golden eagles.
Every step is a visual feast, blending serenity and raw wilderness. 🏔️🌿
Ultimate Guide to Pin Parvati Trek: Detailed Itinerary, Cost, Stay, Food & More
The Pin Parvati Trek is one of the most challenging and breathtaking treks in the Himalayas, crossing from the lush Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh to the barren landscapes of Pin Valley in Spiti. This 18-day expedition (including travel from Delhi) takes you through dense forests, high-altitude meadows, glacial rivers, and the formidable Pin Parvati Pass (5,319m).
This comprehensive guide covers everything—starting from Delhi, daily itinerary, food, stay options (budget & luxury), backpacking tips, costs, best trekking companies, permits, and essential tips.
Quick Overview of Pin Parvati Trek
- Duration: 11-12 days trek (18 days incl. Delhi travel)
- Grade: Difficult to Strenuous (for experienced trekkers)
- Max Altitude: 5,319m (Pin Parvati Pass)
- Best Time: Mid-June to September (avoid monsoon in July)
- Total Distance: 110-120 km (approx.)
- Starting Point: Barshaini (near Kasol)
- End Point: Mudh Village (Spiti Valley)
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary (From Delhi)
Day 1-2: Delhi to Kasol/Barshaini (Travel & Acclimatization)
- Delhi to Bhuntar (Overnight Bus/Volvo – ₹800-1,500)
- Bhuntar to Barshaini (Taxi – ₹1,000-1,500 shared)
- Stay in Kasol/Barshaini (Budget: ₹500-1,000/night, Luxury: ₹2,000-4,000/night)
- Food: Cafés in Kasol (Israeli, Indian, Continental – ₹200-500/meal)
Day 3: Barshaini (1,980m) to Khirganga (2,960m) – 10km, 5-6 hrs
- Trail: Gradual ascent, waterfalls, hot springs
- Stay: Camps/Guesthouses (₹500-1,000)
- Food: Basic Indian meals (Dal-Rice, Maggi – ₹200-400)
Day 4: Khirganga to Tunda Bhuj (3,280m) – 11km, 6-7 hrs
- Trail: Steeper climb, dense forests, river crossings
- Stay: Tents (included in trek package)
- Food: Trekker’s meals (Porridge, Soup, Dal-Chawal)
Day 5: Tunda Bhuj to Thakur Kuan (3,600m) – 12km, 6-7 hrs
- Trail: Rocky terrain, shepherd huts, scenic meadows
- Stay: Tents
- Food: Packed lunch, dinner at camp
Day 6: Thakur Kuan to Odi Thach (4,000m) – 10km, 5-6 hrs
- Trail: Alpine meadows, glacial streams
- Stay: Tents
- Food: Hot meals prepared by support staff
Day 7: Odi Thach to Mantalai Lake (4,200m) – 8km, 5-6 hrs
- Trail: Steep climb, glacial lake views
- Stay: Tents near lake
- Food: High-energy meals
Day 8: Acclimatization & Exploration at Mantalai
- Rest day to adjust to altitude
- Short hikes around the lake
Day 9: Mantalai to Base Camp (4,600m) – 6km, 4-5 hrs
- Trail: Moraines, rocky patches
- Stay: Tents
- Food: Light meals (soup, noodles)
Day 10: Base Camp to Pin Parvati Pass (5,319m) to Camp (4,400m) – 12km, 10-12 hrs
- Toughest Day: Steep ascent, snow patches, dangerous ridges
- Descend: Long & tricky, camp near river
Day 11-12: Trek to Mudh Village (3,800m) – 25km, 2 days
- Trail: Spiti’s barren landscapes, Pin River crossings
- Stay: Homestay/Guesthouse (₹500-1,000)
- Food: Local Spitian food (Thukpa, Momos)
Day 13: Mudh to Kaza (3,650m) – 40km (Taxi – ₹2,000-3,000)
- Stay: Budget (₹800-1,500) / Luxury (₹3,000-5,000)
- Explore: Key Monastery, Kibber Village
Day 14-15: Kaza to Manali (Overnight Bus – ₹800-1,200)
Day 16-18: Manali to Delhi (Volvo – ₹1,000-1,500)
Cost Breakdown (Budget & Luxury)
1. Budget Trek (Self-Organized or Group) – ₹25,000-35,000
- Transport (Delhi-Kasol-Kaza-Delhi): ₹5,000-7,000
- Food & Stay (Kasol/Kaza): ₹3,000-5,000
- Trek Guide & Porter: ₹10,000-15,000
- Camping Gear Rental: ₹5,000-7,000
- Permits & Misc: ₹2,000-3,000
2. Luxury Trek (Organized Tour) – ₹50,000-70,000
- Includes: Flights (Delhi-Kullu), premium stays, better food, experienced guides
- Companies: Indiahikes, Trek The Himalayas, White Magic Adventures
Best Trekking Companies for Pin Parvati Trek
| Company | Cost (Approx.) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Indiahikes | ₹45,000-55,000 | Guide, meals, tents, permits |
| Trek The Himalayas | ₹40,000-50,000 | Full logistics, medical support |
| White Magic Adventures | ₹50,000-65,000 | Luxury camping, better food |
| Himalayan Trekkers | ₹38,000-48,000 | Budget-friendly option |
Essential Tips & FAQs
✅ Permits Needed: Forest permit (₹500-1,000), Spiti inner line permit
✅ Fitness Level: High endurance, prior high-altitude trek experience
✅ Packing List:
- Clothing: Thermals, waterproof jacket, trek pants
- Gear: Trekking poles, -10°C sleeping bag, sturdy boots
- Other: Sunscreen, medicines, water purification tablets
❌ Avoid Monsoon (July) – Landslides & river flooding risks
Final Verdict
The Pin Parvati Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for serious trekkers. It demands physical fitness, mental grit, and proper planning. Whether you choose a budget DIY trek or a luxury guided tour, this journey through Parvati Valley to Spiti is unforgettable.
Would you attempt this trek? Let me know in the comments! 🚀🏔️
Need more details? Ask below! I’ll help with exact route maps, gear recommendations, or company contacts.