Overview
The Pin Parvati Pass Trek is one of the most challenging trans-Himalayan crossovers in India, connecting the lush green Parvati Valley of Kullu with the stark, high-altitude desert of Spiti's Pin Valley. Starting from Barshaini and ending at Mudh village, this 110 km, 11-day trek takes trekkers through dense forests, alpine meadows, glacier crossings, and river fords before culminating at the dramatic Pin Parvati Pass at 5,319 m (17,450 ft), a point where the green Himalayas meet the barren cold desert of Spiti in a single breathtaking view.
Why You'll Love This Trek
Trail Highlights
- Trans-Himalayan crossover from Parvati Valley to Spiti Valley
- Natural hot springs at Kheerganga
- Crossing the dramatic Pin Parvati Pass at 5,319 m
- Glacier and river crossings along the route
- Mantalai Lake - source of the Parvati River
- Chance to spot Himalayan wildlife, including snow leopard habitat
What Makes This Trek Special
A rare trans-Himalayan crossover that takes you from the lush, forested Parvati Valley to the stark, high-altitude desert of Spiti, all in one trek. Cross glaciers, ford glacial rivers, and stand at 5,319 m where green meadows on one side meet barren Spiti mountains on the other.
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The Pin Parvati Pass Trek is one of the most demanding and rewarding trans-Himalayan treks in India, linking the Parvati Valley in Kullu with the Pin Valley in Spiti. Beginning at Barshaini near Kasol, the trail winds through dense pine and birch forests, past the hot springs of Kheerganga, and along the Parvati River through Tunda Bhuj, Thakur Kuan, and Odi Thatch before reaching Mantalai Lake, the last major camp before the pass.
From Mantalai, trekkers ascend to the base of Pin Parvati Pass, crossing glacier and boulder-strewn terrain that demands proper acclimatization and steady footing. At 5,319 m (17,450 ft), the pass marks a dramatic transition: behind you lie the green meadows and forests of Parvati Valley, and ahead stretches the dry, cold desert landscape of Spiti. The descent leads down through the Pin Valley to Mudh village, where the trek concludes.
Route Map
Trailhead Weather
7-day forecastLive conditions at the trailhead. Plan around the forecast — mountain weather shifts fast.
Itinerary 11 Days
Day 1Barshaini to Kheerganga
Trek through forest trail, cross Rudra Nag waterfall, arrive at Kheerganga hot springs; overnight camp.
Day 2Kheerganga to Tunda Bhuj
Trail follows the Parvati River through forests and shepherd meadows.
Day 3Tunda Bhuj to Thakur Kuan
Gradual ascent along river valley; landscape opens into alpine meadows.
Day 4Thakur Kuan to Odi Thatch
Short but steep climb; last tree line before high-altitude zone.
Day 5Odi Thatch to Mantalai Lake
Trek to the sacred source lake of the Parvati River; base for pass crossing.
Day 6Acclimatization/Reserve day at Mantalai Lake
Rest, short walks, and prep for pass crossing.
Day 7Mantalai to Pass Base Camp
Approach camp closer to the pass over rocky/glacial terrain.
Day 8Pass Base Camp to Pin Valley side camp via Pin Parvati Pass
Long, technical summit day; cross pass at 5,319 m, descend into Spiti terrain.
Day 9Descent to Baba Ka Dhaba/Pin Valley camp
Continue descent through Spiti's barren landscape.
Day 10Trek to Mudh Village
Final descent; arrival in Buddhist Spiti village of Mudh.
Day 11Mudh to Kaza (drive)
Trek concludes; drive out to Kaza for onward travel.
Best Time to Visit
Things to Carry
- Trekking shoes with good ankle support and grip
- Microspikes/crampons for glacier and snow sections
- Trekking poles
- 3-4 clothing layers: thermal wear, fleece, down jacket
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Gloves and woolen cap
- UV-protection sunglasses
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C)
- Water bottles + purification tablets
- Personal first-aid kit
- Dry fruits/energy bars
- Rucksack with rain cover
Permits & Fees
Safety Tips
- Remote, high-altitude trek with no easy exit points — go only with an experienced guide/operator
- Proper acclimatization is critical; watch for AMS symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness)
- Descend immediately if AMS symptoms become severe
- River crossings can be dangerous in high water — cross early morning when water levels are lower
- Weather near the pass changes rapidly; check forecasts before summit day
- Carry emergency communication (satellite phone recommended) since mobile network is largely unavailable
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