If you have been postponing your plans to go for an adventurous trekking excursion in the Himalayas for a long time, then there is no need to do it anymore. Known for its mountainous terrain, Himachal Pradesh is a gem in the crown of India. This is where the Bhabha Pass Trek brings you to explore the bounties bestowed on the region by nature. It is a moderate to difficult trek; therefore, ideal for those, who have some experience of hiking in the mountains.

The 7-day expedition begins from the serene hill station of Shimla, and then takes you on an exciting road trip to the village of Kafnu. On this 206-km ride, you will see mighty peaks of the Himalayas. On the second day of the trek to Bhabha Pass in Himachal, the hiking adventure starts as you proceed to Mulling. Passing through dense forests of pine and birch, your senses will be in for a treat. Phustirang, the destination for the third day of the excursion, is situated at an altitude of about 4000 metres. The journey to it will be a little challenging, and you will also have to cross a river on the way.

It is the fourth day of the trek, which brings you to the high-altitude pass. The challenging hike to the pass is rewarded by mesmerising views of the Himalayan landscape. You will also have to walk on ice patches and moraines that will be quite a test for your hiking skills. This itinerary not only involves trekking to Bhabha Pass in Spiti, but there is ample sightseeing as well. A scenic drive from Kaza will take you to Chandratal. The ride takes you on the soaring Kunzum La and also past the famous Key Monastery.

The picturesque Chandratal, famed for its moon-like shape, is one of the most enchanting sights you get to behold on the trek. An overnight stay on the banks of the lake will also be a memorable experience for you. The adventure concludes when you reach Manali on the seventh day. Those, who are physically fit and have good trekking experience, must go on this trail to see why it is counted as one of the most popular treks in Himachal Pradesh.  

Explore other Trekking options in Spiti Valley.
 

Itinerary:

Day 01: Shimla to Kafnu
Report in Shimla in the morning, and then embark on a road trip to Kafnu, a small, quaint village about 206 km away. On reaching Kafnu, transfer to the hotel and enjoy an overnight stay.

Day 02: Kafnu to Mulling (10170 feet | 5-6 hours)
Following a filling breakfast, start trekking towards Mulling. The trail first takes you through a small charming village and then through a dense forest of pine, birch and cedar. The 5-6 hour hike involves climbing steep ascent, which will be a little challenging. Upon arrival at Mulling, spend the night in your comfortable tents.

Day 03: Mulling – Kara (11646 feet) – Phustirang (13123 feet) (7-8 hours)
This day of the Bhabha Pass Trek takes you to Phustirang. On the way, you will also pass Kara, which is situated at an altitude of about 3550 metres. During the day, you will have to cross a river, and while some sections of it will be quite easy, other will demand that you use your strength. As you get closer to your destination, the scenery keeps getting more and more forested. Continue the hike till you reach Phustirang, and then move to your tent for a good night’s sleep.

Day 04: Phustirang – Bhabha Pass (15912 feet) – Baldar (12795 feet) (6-7 hours)
As you begin this section of the trekking to Bhabha Pass in Spiti, you will be challenged by steep slopes. Since you will be walking on snow, put your every step with great care. The ascent will bring you to the famous pass at an altitude of about 4850 metres. The vistas you capture from here are truly enchanting. Do not forget to click a lot of pictures once at the top of the pass.

This is your entry into the pristine valley of the Spiti River. From here, the descent will take you to the Baldar campsite. Be careful here too as you will be walking on moraines and patches of snow. After reaching Baldar campsite, transfer to your tent and sleep overnight.

Day 05: Baldar – Mudh (12270 feet) – Kaza (12467 feet) (2 hours)
On this last day of hiking on the trek to Bhabha Pass in Himachal, start with a healthy meal in the morning, and then begin travelling towards the Mudh village. Post a delicious lunch here, embark on a road journey to Kaza. Upon arrival in the town of Kaza, transfer to the homestay and rest for the night.

Day 06: Kaza – Kunzum La (14927 feet) – Chandratal (14009 feet)
Though the hiking section is over, there is still some sightseeing left for you to do. This is one of the reasons that make this trip among the most popular treks in Himachal Pradesh.

Start driving towards Chandratal and capture fascinating sights en route. On the way, you also cross the soaring Kunzum La, one of the high-altitude passes in Himachal Pradesh. You will also drive past the centuries-old Key Monastery, which overlooks its serene surroundings from a hilltop.

Spell binding everyone with its magnificence, Chandratal derives its name from its shape, which resembles that of the moon. Reach the lake and spend the night in the campsite on its shores.

Day 07: Chandratal to Manali (6-7 hour’ drive)
The last day of the excursion takes you to Manali, where the adventure ends, and you are free to disperse.