Sar Pass Trek- The Little Heaven in Parvati Valley

Planning a trekking tour in Himachal Pradesh? Also are you looking for a challenging trek in India? Search no more! The Sar Pass Trek is one of the most exciting and beautiful treks in Himachal Pradesh. It is definitely one of those places that you readily give your heart to. The Himalayan Mountains, rich forests, and spectacular scenery may all be seen on this journey. In this article, we will explore the route, the necessary preparations, and the thrills of the Sar Pass Trek. So, if you’re ready to embrace the adventure of a lifetime, let the journey begin!

The trek starts from the small settlement of the Kasol in the Parvati Valley where you will trek to the Grahan village. From Grahan, you will move on to the Min Thach. The next day journey will put you on a steeper trail through forest to reach Nagaru Campsite. And the hardest day of the journey, as well as the most rewarding, is from Nagaru to Biskeri Thach through Sar Pass. The breathtaking views of Parvati valley make all the walking worth its while.

Itinerary for Sar Pass Trek:
Day 1: Kasol to Grahan Village (10 km, 6 hours)

Start from Kasol and follow the gentle slope along the river stream.
Cross the rocky and steep terrain after the river stream.
Reach Grahan Village, known for its traditional Himachali houses and Rhododendron trees.
Overnight stay in tents.

Day 2: Grahan Village to Min Thach (7 km, 6-7 hours)

Start from Grahan camping ground and follow the northbound trail towards Min Thach.
The trail gradually ascends, and villagers often use it in the morning.
Enjoy the breathtaking view as you walk, guided by a local who can point out Min Thach.
The trail becomes steeper and leads you into a dense forest with limited sunlight.
After a few hours of trekking, the forest opens up to a grassy patch on a ridge known as Min Thach, where villagers bring their cattle to graze.
Take in the panoramic view of Chanderkhani and other ranges to the northwest.
You can camp at Min Thach for the night, protected from strong winds by the ridge.
Set up tents and dig trenches for natural drainage in case of rain, hail, or snow.

Day 3: Min Thach to Nagaru (8 km, 7 hours)

This is the most challenging yet rewarding day of the trek.
Start from Min Thach and head south into the woods, veering away from the ridge-line.
Be cautious of the snowy conditions and start early to avoid slippery slopes later in the day.
Reach a rocky ridge-line overlooking a grassy meadow, then ascend steeply to the left towards Nagaru.
The trail is well-marked initially, but the tree-line disappears, giving way to grass and shrubs.
Exercise caution on steep slopes and use a guide, trekking pole, and proper techniques to navigate the snow.
After a couple of hours, reach Nagaru campsite, offering stunning views of the Parvati valley and nearby peaks.
Network coverage may be intermittent, and water availability may vary, so carry enough supplies.
Set up camp quickly due to strong winds and rapid temperature drops after sunset.

Day 4: Nagaru to Biskeri Thach through Sar Pass (14 km, 7 hours)

Wake up early, have breakfast, and prepare for the challenging long trek to Biskeri Thach via Sar Pass.
Follow the southward ridge-line, climbing through snow and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
After climbing a hill and reaching the top, witness the breathtaking view of Sar Pass.
The pass, named after a frozen pond, doesn’t involve crossing a mountain saddle.
Take in the panoramic view of the Sar Pass and snowy mountains to the south.
Descend towards Biskeri Thach, crossing slopes, and possibly sliding on the snow.
Reach the campsite of Biskeri Thach, offering stunning views of pine forests, majestic mountains, and grasslands.
Enjoy the sight of nearby villages and a waterfall flowing down from the mountains.
Water is available from a stream and a tap, and network coverage is accessible.

Trek Essential:
Now, come to the main point, what to take on your trek!  Here’s a trek packing checklist.

Those are Backpack, Medical kit, ID Proof, Essential toiletries, Trekking pole, Warm clothes, Sunscreen, Suncaps, Sunglass, Trekking shoes, Thermal water bottles.

Backpack (40-60 litres): Backpack with sturdy straps and supporting frame. Rain cover for backpack is essential.
Trekking shoes: Invest in a good pair of shoes.
Socks (6 pairs): 2 cotton pairs, 4 woolen pairs (mostly to be used on campsites and while sleeping. Keep them dry.)
Trek pants (3 pairs including the one you are wearing): It should be synthetic quick-dry pants. Please avoid Denim jeans, shorts or 3 quarters to trek.
Thermal Innerwear: 2 pair of lightweight.
Synthetic Handgloves: Ensure that the gloves are waterproof.
Sunglasses: Make sure that is UV protected. Sunglasses prevent snow blindness. (Sunglasses are mandatory for this trek)
Headtorch: Mandatory
Poncho: It can be used as wind proof and rain proof when required.

Getting in Shape for the Sar Pass Trek:

Remember, your level of physical fitness is crucial to finishing the trek successfully. The Sar Pass Trek involves a significant gain in altitude, and you’ll be trekking at high altitudes.
Start walking and running daily (Two Months before trek).
Make leg-based cardio part of your routine.
Take the stairs every chance you get.

All about the Sar Pass Trek:
Region:  Himachal Pradesh
Duration:  6 Days
Grade: Easy to Moderate
Max Altitude: 13,779 Ft.
Approx Trekking: 49 km.
Trail Type: A cross over trail through passes.
Base Camp: Kasol (Contact any Trek Operator for better update)
Best Season: May  to October
Snow: Entire year