Overview

About the Bara Bhangal Trek

The Bara Bhangal Trek, also known as The Shepherds Trail, is one of the most remote and scenic high-altitude treks in Himachal Pradesh. This adventurous route takes you across the mighty Dhauladhar range of the Western Himalayas, connecting the lush green valleys of Kullu and Kangra through two dramatic mountain passes – Kalihani (4,800m) and Thamsar (5,000m).

The trail leads to Bara Bhangal, a remote Himalayan village inhabited by the Gaddi shepherds. With no motorable road access, the village remains beautifully isolated and untouched by modern development. To reach or leave Bara Bhangal, one must cross high-altitude passes – making it a true off-the-grid trekking experience.

Each day offers awe-inspiring views, diverse terrain, and some of the most beautiful wilderness campsites in the Himalayas. This trek is ideal for experienced hikers looking to explore hidden trails, alpine meadows, glacial streams, and authentic mountain culture.

How to Reach Manali (Trip Starting Point)

  • By Air:
    The nearest airport is Kullu–Manali Airport (Bhuntar), about 60 km from Manali. You can take a taxi or shared cab from the airport to reach Manali in 1.5 to 2 hours.

  • By Road:
    Manali is well-connected by road to Delhi (approx. 550 km), Chandigarh, Ambala, and Shimla. There are frequent Volvo buses and state transport services from Delhi, which take about 12–14 hours.

  • By Train:
    The nearest railway stations are:

    • Chandigarh (315 km)

    • Pathankot (290 km)
      From either station, you can continue your journey by bus or hire a private taxi to Manali.

11 Nights 12 Days 10 Sep Old Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Highlights

Bara Bhangal Trek Highlights – What Makes This Trek Unique

  • Stunning Panoramic Views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal mountain ranges

  • Cross Two High-Altitude Passes – Kalihani Pass (4,800m) and Thamsar Pass (5,000m)

  • Trek through Glacial Lakes and Remote Glacier Tarns

  • Hike across Dense Pine Forests and Breathtaking Alpine Meadows

  • Chance to Spot Himalayan Wildlife, including the elusive Himalayan Brown Bear

  • Traverse Glaciers, Icy Streams, and Meandering Mountain Rivers

  • Authentic Cultural Encounters with Gaddi Shepherds and Their Flocks

  • Experience Life in One of the Most Isolated Himalayan Villages – Bara Bhangal

Itinerary

Day 1: Manali (2050m) to Lamadugh (2920m) – 4 to 5 Hours Trek

Begin your trek with a scenic climb through dense Deodar forests, leading to panoramic viewpoints above Manali. Pass through beautiful alpine meadows and conifer-oak woodlands to reach the high-altitude pasture of Lamadugh, surrounded by Maple, Spruce, and Silver Birch trees.
Overnight: Camp at Lamadugh
Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Lamadugh to Riyali Thach (3320m) – 6 to 7 Hours Trek

Trek along the ridgeline below Khanpari Tibba, with spectacular views of the Solang Valley and Rohtang La. Traverse gently across oak-covered slopes to reach the serene meadow of Riyali Thach, your next campsite.
Overnight: Camp at Riyali
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Riyali to Kalihani Base Camp (Shangor – 3700m) – 5 Hours Trek

Today’s trail ascends along the upper river course, revealing panoramic vistas of Chanderkhani Pass and distant Himalayan peaks. Reach the base camp of Kalihani Pass, nestled in a dramatic alpine valley.
Overnight: Camp at Shangor
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Kalihani Base Camp to Dhanku Thach (3500m) via Kalihani Pass (4800m) – 8 to 9 Hours Trek

A challenging day with a steep ascent over rocky moraine and glacial terrain to the summit of Kalihani Pass (4800m) – a high point offering breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar range. Descend to the lush alpine meadows of Dhanku Thach.
Overnight: Camp at Dhanku Thach
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Dhanku Thach to Lamba Parao (3150m) – 4 Hours Trek

Follow the path down into the Shepherds’ Valley, passing grazing flocks and crossing a wooden bridge. Reach Lamba Parao, a peaceful campsite nestled near a stream.
Overnight: Camp at Lamba Parao
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Lamba Parao to Dadh Marhi (3550m) – 5 Hours Trek

Cross loose scree and boulder fields through wild alpine landscapes, with glacier views all around. Short climbs and stream crossings lead to Dadh Marhi, a dramatic campsite set amidst towering Himalayan peaks.
Overnight: Camp at Dadh Marhi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Dadh Marhi to Bara Bhangal Village (2350m) – 7 Hours Trek

Descend along scenic trails through birch, rhododendron, and pine forests into the remote shepherd village of Bara Bhangal. This ancient settlement is home to the nomadic Gaddi community and lies completely isolated from the outside world.
Overnight: Camp near Bara Bhangal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Rest & Explore Bara Bhangal (2350m)

Spend the day exploring the authentic Himalayan culture of Bara Bhangal. Visit traditional homes, interact with the Gaddi shepherds, and understand their seasonal migration routes.
Overnight: Camp at Bara Bhangal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Bara Bhangal to Madh (3750m) – 6 to 7 Hours Trek

Begin a steep ascent toward Thamsar Pass base camp, crossing bridges and glacier streams. Enjoy clear views of Pir Panjal and Mani Mahesh Kailash as you reach Madh, a windswept meadow surrounded by high peaks.
Overnight: Camp at Madh
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Madh to Panhartu (3390m) via Thamsar Pass (4380m) – 7 to 8 Hours Trek

Ascend gradually to the Thamsar Pass (4380m), a rugged crossing with sweeping views of Himachal's inner valleys. Descend steeply to Panhartu, a picturesque camping spot in the alpine zone.
Overnight: Camp at Panhartu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11: Panhartu to Rajgundha (2400m) – 7 Hours Trek

Descend past snow bridges and river crossings into lush green forests filled with rhododendron, spruce, and oak. Continue toward the fertile fields of Rajgundha, a small hamlet on the edge of civilization.
Overnight: Camp at Rajgundha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 12: Rajgundha to Bir-Billing – Drive to Manali (6–7 Hours Total)

From Rajgundha, hike or drive through the Uhl Valley, surrounded by alpine ridges and Himalayan forests. Reach Bir-Billing, India’s paragliding capital, then drive back to Manali, marking the end of your unforgettable Bara Bhangal adventure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Inclusions/Exclusions

What is included in the tour

  • The services of an educated Himalayan Yeti Adventure representative or escort /  guide, well versed with native flora/fauna, topography & culture during the entire trek program.
  • During the trek, all camping logistics and mules / porters/ to carry luggage. Participants will be required to carry only their day sacks with their daily essentials etc.
  • Camping on twin sharing basis in 2-man tents, with foam mattresses, sleeping bags and kitchen tent, toilet tent etc. 
  • One Cook and camp helper/s with all necessary kitchen items, utensils etc.
  • All transportation as per the itinerary, inclusive of transfers to the roadhead before the trek and transfer from the roadhead to Manali, after the conclusion of the trek.
  • Boiled drinking water during the trek and warm water for personal ablutions in the morning.
  • All meals during the trek program.
  • Wildlife / environmental Permits and Levies, wherever required.
  • All camping charges.
  • Trek Briefing / debriefing & guides charges.
  • Charges for following the global ‘Leave No Trace’ protocol.
  • Insurance of the trekking staff
  • Good medical / first aid kit with Oxygen Cylinders.

What is NOT included in the tour

  • Any accidental, travel or medical insurance.  It is advisable for the participants to get themselves comprehensively insured before the tour.
  • Any expenses of a personal nature.
  • Any and all evacuation charges (medical or otherwise), or hospitalization or physicians consultation charges. Your own insurance policy should also, ideally, cover this.                                     
Pickup point
Directions.
Himalayan Yeti Adventure, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India View on Map
Things to Bring
  • . Insulated, waterproof boots are best. They have thick soles, rubber/leather uppers, and insulation.
  • . Flip Flops/Crocs.
  • . Wool or synthetic socks with wicking liners promote warm, dry feet. (this item is to be bought by the clients themselves)
  • . Layer your clothing so it can be adjusted to your activity level and the weather. Avoid cotton.
  • . Base layer: Synthetics and wool retain warmth even when wet. Wear long underwear (top and bottom) that wicks away moisture, insulates well, and dries quickly. Choose from microlight, lightweight, or midweight versions based on the temperature and your activity level. A zippered top lets you adjust body heat as you stop and go. (this item is to be bought by the clients themselves, easily available in Decathlon Stores)
  • . Upper Insulating layer: Polyester fleece makes a good insulating mid-layer since it retains heat when wet and breathes as you exercise.
  • . Outer layer: A waterproof, breathable shell jacket and pants keep you dry and fend off wind.
  • . Down feather jacket: Can be used while relaxing or walking outside in the camp area.
  • . Hat, Gloves, and Accessories: Keep your head and hands covered to prevent loss of body heat and to protect from sunburn.
  • . A wool or synthetic hat, headband, or balaclava retains heat; a wide-brimmed hat or a ball cap can shade your eyes on sunny days.
  • . Sunglasses and sunscreen will protect you from burning UV rays which are especially intense when reflected off of snow.
  • . Cotton scarf: Good for dust and to protect neck from sunburn.
  • . Water bottle and hydration bag.
  • . Head lamp & spare batteries.
  • . Camera dustproof cover and spare batteries and memory card; GoPro is just great.
  • . Money belt or secure portion of bag.
  • . Personal toiletries including lip cream, hand wash (alcohol-based), sunscreen, and towel.
  • . Penknife, journal, sketch pad, playing cards, book, reading light, sewing kit, etc.
  • . Small padlock for stored bag.
  • . Trekking day bag up to 65 to 85 liters.
Destination
Himachal Pradesh
Payment & Cancellation Policy

Booking & Payment Policy – Himalayan Yeti Adventure

When planning your journey with Himalayan Yeti Adventure, we highly recommend booking in advance. Early confirmation allows us ample time to secure necessary permits, travel documents, accommodations, and transportation for a seamless and well-organized experience.

Payment Schedule

To confirm your booking, please follow our structured payment plan:

  • 25% deposit at the time of booking (to secure your reservation)

  • 50% payment one month prior to arrival in India

  • 25% balance one week before your arrival in India

Cancellation & Refund Policy

If you need to cancel your trip, the following refund terms will apply based on the number of days before the scheduled tour start date:

  • 30+ days before: 75% refund, 25% retained

  • 20–29 days before: 70% refund, 30% retained

  • 7–19 days before: 20% refund, 80% retained

  • Less than 7 days / after departure: No refund

Please note: Costs related to permits, travel documentation, and other non-refundable administrative expenses will not be reimbursed under any circumstances.

Himalayan Yeti Adventure begins ground arrangements and makes advance payments to our service partners as soon as your booking is confirmed, which is why the above terms apply.

Tour Cancellations by Himalayan Yeti Adventure

  • In the rare case that Himalayan Yeti Adventure must cancel a tour due to insufficient bookings, a full refund of all payments made will be issued.

  • If a tour is canceled, interrupted, or altered due to force majeure (such as natural disasters, political unrest, strikes, or transportation disruptions), we will strive to provide alternate arrangements. However, please note that liability in such cases may be limited.

For any questions regarding these policies or for help with your booking, feel free to contact our team.