HIGHLIGHTS
- Region: Kullu & Kangra Valley
- Season: September End / Mid Oct
- Duration: 13 days
- Grade: Challenging
- Passes: Kalihani Pass (4800m) & Thamsar Pass (5000m)
- Max. Altitude: 5000m
- Starts from: Manali, Himachal Pradesh
- Group Size: Maximum 15
- Trip Begins: Manali
- Trip Ends: Bir-Billing
INTRODUCTION
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
- By Air:
- The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu–Manali Airport), located about 60 km from Manali. Taxis are easily available from the airport.
- By Road:
- Manali is well connected by road to Delhi, Chandigarh, Ambala, and Shimla. Regular government and private buses, including comfortable Volvo services, operate daily from Delhi and Chandigarh.
- By Train:
- The nearest railway stations are Chandigarh (315 km) and Pathankot (290 km). From either station, you can continue to Manali by bus or taxi.
- 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
DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN MANALI (2,050 M)
Arrival in Manali, report at respected hotel. Relax for while till all participant reach. Later walk to exploring the Hadimba temple Buddhist monastery and town to by the needful accessory. Afternoon briefing about the trek.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Packed Lunch & Dinner
DAY 02: MANALI (2,050 M) TO LAMADUGH (2,920 M) | TREK: 4–5 HOURS
After breakfast, drive to the trek starting point and begin your ascent through dense Deodar forests above Manali. The trail gradually climbs through beautiful conifer forests of Deodar, Maple, Spruce, Oak, and Silver Birch, offering panoramic views of the Kullu Valley, Manali town, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
A packed lunch will be served along the trail. Continue through alpine meadows and open grazing grounds before reaching the beautiful high-altitude pasture of Lamadugh, surrounded by pristine Himalayan wilderness.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Packed Lunch & Dinner
DAY 03: LAMADUGH TO RIYALI THACH (3,320 M) | TREK: 6–7 HOURS
After an early breakfast, begin your trek along the scenic ridgeline below Khanpari Tibba. The trail offers spectacular views of the Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, and the surrounding peaks of the Pir Panjal Range.
Traverse gently across alpine slopes, oak-covered hillsides, and open meadows while enjoying panoramic Himalayan vistas throughout the day. A packed lunch will be served en route at a scenic location along the trail.
By afternoon, arrive at the beautiful meadow of Riyali Thach. Surrounded by rolling grasslands and towering peaks, this peaceful campsite provides an ideal setting to relax and enjoy the pristine mountain environment.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
DAY 04: RIYALI THACH TO KALIHANI BASE CAMP (SHANGOR – 3,700 M) | TREK: 5 HOURS
After breakfast, continue ascending through alpine meadows and rugged mountain terrain. The trail follows the upper river valley, gradually gaining altitude while offering magnificent views of Chanderkhani Pass, Khanpari Tibba, and the surrounding Himalayan landscape.
A packed lunch will be enjoyed during the trek. By afternoon, arrive at Shangor, the base camp of Kalihani Pass, situated in a spectacular alpine basin surrounded by glaciers, snowfields, and towering peaks.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
DAY 05: KALIHANI BASE CAMP TO DHANKU THACH (3,500 M) VIA KALIHANI PASS (4,800 M) | TREK: 8–9 HOURS
Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the expedition. Start early and ascend steeply across moraine, snowfields, and glacial terrain toward Kalihani Pass (4,800 m).
From the summit of the pass, enjoy breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar Range, Pir Panjal Range, Bara Bhangal Valley, and countless Himalayan peaks stretching across the horizon. A packed lunch will be served during the crossing.
After spending time at the pass, descend carefully through alpine terrain to the lush meadows of Dhanku Thach.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
DAY 06: DHANKU THACH TO LAMBA PARAO (3,150 M) | TREK: 4 HOURS
After breakfast, begin a gradual descent into the famous Shepherds' Valley. The trail passes through traditional grazing grounds used by the nomadic Gaddi shepherds and offers wonderful views of surrounding mountains and alpine landscapes.
Cross wooden bridges and glacier-fed streams before stopping for a packed lunch along the route. Continue to Lamba Parao, a beautiful campsite located beside a mountain stream.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
DAY 07: LAMBA PARAO TO DADH MARHI (3,550 M) | TREK: 5 HOURS
Today's route traverses’ remote alpine terrain, crossing scree slopes, boulder fields, and glacier-fed streams. The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as massive peaks and hanging glaciers dominate the skyline.
A packed lunch will be enjoyed on the trail before continuing toward Dadh Marhi, a spectacular campsite surrounded by rugged Himalayan mountains.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
DAY 08: DADH MARHI TO BARA BHANGAL VILLAGE (2,350 M) | TREK: 7 HOURS
After breakfast, descend through beautiful forests of Birch, Rhododendron, and Pine. The trail gradually leads into the remote valley of Bara Bhangal, one of the most isolated settlements in Himachal Pradesh.
A packed lunch will be served during the trek. By afternoon, arrive at Bara Bhangal Village, home to the traditional Gaddi shepherd community, whose lifestyle has remained largely unchanged for generations.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
DAY 09: REST & EXPLORE BARA BHANGAL (2,350 M)
Today is reserved for rest, exploration, and cultural immersion. Spend time exploring the village, interacting with local families, visiting traditional houses, and learning about the fascinating culture and seasonal migration routes of the Gaddi people.
The day also provides an opportunity for acclimatization and recovery before the next high-altitude pass crossing.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 10: BARA BHANGAL TO MADH (3,750 M) | TREK: 6–7 HOURS
Leave the village behind and begin a steady ascent toward the base camp of Thamsar Pass. Cross suspension bridges, glacier-fed streams, and alpine meadows while enjoying magnificent views of the Pir Panjal Range and the sacred Mani Mahesh Kailash region.
A packed lunch will be served along the route. Reach Madh by late afternoon and enjoy the spectacular mountain surroundings.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
DAY 11: MADH TO PANHARTU (3,390 M) VIA THAMSAR PASS (4,380 M) | TREK: 7–8 HOURS
An early start is essential as you begin the ascent toward Thamsar Pass (4,380 m), one of the most dramatic mountain crossings in Himachal Pradesh.
Cross snowfields, rocky terrain, and high alpine slopes before reaching the pass. Enjoy panoramic views of the inner Himalayan valleys and surrounding mountain ranges. A packed lunch will be served during the trek.
Descend steeply through rugged terrain to reach the picturesque campsite at Panhartu.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
DAY 12: PANHARTU TO RAJGUNDHA (2,400 M) | TREK: 7 HOURS
After breakfast, descend through lush forests filled with Rhododendron, Oak, Spruce, and Pine. Cross numerous streams and mountain trails while enjoying the transition from alpine terrain to greener Himalayan landscapes.
A packed lunch will be served during the trek. Continue toward Rajgundha, a charming mountain hamlet surrounded by fertile fields and forests.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
DAY 13: RAJGUNDHA TO BIR-BILLING | DRIVE TO MANALI
After breakfast, continue through the beautiful Uhl Valley toward Bir-Billing, internationally renowned as India's paragliding capital. Enjoy stunning views of Himalayan ridges, traditional villages, and forested slopes along the way.
Upon reaching Bir-Billing, enjoy lunch before beginning the scenic drive back to Manali, marking the successful completion of the legendary Bara Bhangal Traverse.
Meals: Breakfast
What is included in the tour
- Services of an experienced Himalayan Yeti Adventure trek leader and local guides with extensive knowledge of Himalayan flora, fauna, geography, culture, and mountain safety.
- Complete camping logistics throughout the trek.
- Horses, mules, and porters for carrying camping equipment, food supplies, and personal baggage (up to the permitted weight limit of 10 kg). Participants are required to carry only their day pack with personal essentials.
- Twin-sharing accommodation in high-quality expedition tents.
- Foam mattresses, insulated sleeping mats, sleeping bags, kitchen tent, dining tent, and western-style toilet tent.
- Professional camp staff including cook and camp helpers.
- Freshly prepared nutritious meals throughout the trek, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea, and snacks.
- Safe boiled and filtered drinking water during the trek.
- Warm water for personal use at camps whenever feasible.
- All transportation as per the itinerary, including transfers to the trek starting point and return transfers after the trek.
- All forest permits, camping permits, environmental fees, and wildlife levies wherever applicable.
- All campsite fees and camping charges.
- Trek briefing, orientation, and post-trek debriefing.
- Emergency medical support including a comprehensive first-aid kit, oxygen cylinders, pulse oximeter, and emergency response equipment.
- Insurance coverage for trekking staff and support crew.
- Charges associated with implementing internationally recognized Leave No Trace environmental practices.
- All applicable government taxes and service charges.
What is NOT included in the tour
- Hotel accommodation in Manali before or after the trek.
- Meals and beverages during hotel stays in Manali.
- Personal trekking clothing, footwear, and equipment.
- Personal expenses such as bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, snacks, laundry, telephone calls, internet charges, and gratuities.
- Travel insurance, medical insurance, and high-altitude adventure insurance.
- Medical treatment, hospitalization, rescue, evacuation, or helicopter evacuation expenses.
- Any transportation not specifically mentioned under "Trek Inclusions."
- Additional accommodation, meals, or transportation resulting from early arrival, late departure, illness, injury, trek abandonment, or evacuation.
- Expenses arising from unforeseen circumstances such as landslides, road closures, extreme weather, natural disasters, political disturbances, flight cancellations, or any other force majeure events beyond the control of Himalayan Yeti Adventure.
- Any item not specifically mentioned under "Trek Inclusions."
Note: We strongly recommend that all participants purchase comprehensive travel and adventure sports insurance that covers trekking, medical emergencies, and helicopter evacuation in the Indian Himalayas.
Backpacks
- Backpack (40–50 Litres) with rain cover – Carried by horse, mule, or porter during the trek.
- Day Pack (15–20 Litres) with rain cover – To carry personal essentials such as camera, water bottle, snacks, extra clothing layers, and personal items.
Footwear
- Trekking Shoes – Good quality trekking boots with ankle support and proper grip are highly recommended. Sports shoes are not suitable for most Himalayan treks, especially at higher altitudes and on rough terrain.
Socks
- 2–3 pairs of trekking socks.
- 2 pairs of woollen socks for use at camp and while sleeping. Woollen socks are generally not recommended while trekking.
Clothing
- 3 pairs of trekking pants (including the pair worn during travel). Quick-dry trekking pants are recommended.
- 3 quick-dry T-shirts (including the one worn during travel). Full-sleeve shirts provide better sun protection.
- Fleece jacket for insulation.
- Waterproof rain jacket and windproof outer layer.
- Down or synthetic insulated jacket suitable for cold mountain conditions.
- 1 pair of thermal base layers (upper and lower) – optional but recommended for colder months.
Accessories
- Warm woollen cap or beanie.
- Warm gloves.
- Sun cap or wide-brimmed hat.
- UV-protection sunglasses.
Personal Essentials
- Sunscreen (SPF 40+).
- Moisturiser and lip balm.
- Personal toiletries and biodegradable soap.
- Toilet paper and personal hygiene products.
- Personal medications.
Additional Recommended Items
- Headlamp or torch with spare batteries.
- Camera and spare batteries.
- Repair kit (needle, thread, safety pins).
- Two water bottles (1 litre each) or hydration system.
- Trekking poles (optional but highly recommended).
- Personal snacks and energy bars.
- Power bank for charging electronic devices.
Waterproof Packing
- Use waterproof plastic liners or dry bags inside your backpack.
- Pack all clothing and sleeping gear in separate waterproof bags to protect them from rain, river crossings, and moisture during transport by horses or porters.
- Carry extra plastic bags for storing wet clothing and gear.
When you decide to embark on a tour with Himalayan Yeti Adventure, it’s essential to book in advance to allow us sufficient time to prepare all necessary documents, permits, and arrangements, including hotels and transport.
Payment Schedule
- Full deposit at the time of booking to confirm the reservation
Cancellation Policy
- If you need to cancel, please note the following refund terms:
- 30+ days before the tour starts: 75% of the full payment is refunded; 25% is retained.
- 20–29 days before the tour starts: 70% of the full payment is refunded; 35% is retained.
- 7–19 days before the tour starts: 20% of the full payment is refunded; 80% is retained.
- After departure or during the tour: No refunds will be issued once the expedition or tour has started.
- Non-refundable costs: Permit fees, travel documentation charges, and similar expenses are non-refundable.
Note: Himalayan Yeti Adventure conducts all ground operations in advance upon receiving your confirmation. We make prepayments to our vendors to guarantee the promised services for your trip.
Additional Information
In the event Himalayan Yeti Adventure must cancel a tour due to insufficient participant numbers, we will issue a full refund of all payments received. However, if a tour is canceled or altered due to force majeure events such as natural disasters, strikes, civil unrest, or technical difficulties affecting transportation, we will do our best to make alternate arrangements, though liability may be limited.
