Most rewarding experience to see the untouched areas in mighty himalayas, is to be on walking trail. The trail through lush green valleys, mineral water streams, chirping of birds, sound of wind, dancing rain and snowcapped peaks, some times touched by clouds make a picturesque image on mind.
Nestled between two Himalayan ranges — the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar — Manali is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Leaving the Manali Valley behind, the trail passes through cool, evergreen forests of walnut, oak, and occasional alder trees. All along the way, you’re treated to stunning views of the entire Kullu Valley.
To carry stories for people you know, would be quite busy in shooting photos all around.
Just for your journal, here is a map for reference.
Stunning views of near by mountain peaks is worth the efforts of few days climb. The trek to ‘Naag Saur (Glaciated) Lake’ (4410m) — a group of frozen mountain tarns — is one of the few unexplored, lesser-known, yet most spectacular and impressive treks in the Kullu Valley.
Prepare yourself for a snowy adventure as you ascend into the snowfields above Kharimindiyari and Rourikhori.
Mountain climbing emphasize resilience, perspective, and the rewarding nature of overcoming challenges.
"The best view comes after the hardest climb."
TREK DETAILS
- Trek duration: 07 Nights/ 08 Days.
- Trek accommodation: Tents
- All meals included vegetarian
- Trek level: Moderate
- Trek gradiant: A scenic trek, it’s a moderately easy walk-up, which anyone with a decent level of fitness can accomplish.
TREK ITINERARY
Day 01: The participants arrive at Base Camp at Shuru road head (4km from Manali). Evening will go through a briefing.
Day 02: Manali – Acclimatization walk up to Arjun Gufa, Sharvani Devi Temple, Thakshak Nag Bhanara and back to camp site 4hrs.
Banara is situated at 2200m.and there is an old temple dedicated to the local God Thakshak Nag. Near Bhanara there are remnants of the forts of Raja Piti, an earlier ruler of Kullu, and near the forts is the historic cave (ARJUN GUFA) where Arjun of Mahabharata fame is believed to have taken refuge during the exile of Pandvas. In the afternoon participants will go for River crossing. Stay overnight at Base Camp.
Day 03: Shuru (Base Camp) – Sethan Village (2675m.) 5 hours.
Today’s trail ascends through a forest of blue pine, cedar, oak, and fir, leading to Gourudugh (2170m), which is about a one-hour trek. Beyond Gourudugh, the group continues on a high-altitude trek via Chhalet village, winding through Hamta village. This section begins with the steepest climb, passing through apple orchards and forests of blue pine, cedar, oak, fir, and chestnut.
The small hamlet of Hamta has an interesting story passed down by local people. It is said to be a gateway to heaven. According to local belief, those who pass away must go through Hamta on their journey to the afterlife. Villagers have reportedly heard mysterious sounds — crying and the blowing of a trumpet. The sound of crying was believed to signify a soul bound for hell, while the trumpet indicated one ascending to heaven.
Mount Inderkilla, located beyond this area near the Inderasan peak, is believed to be the place of both heaven and hell. This gigantic, towering rocky mountain holds cultural significance and is known as the crown of the local gods — a story interpreted and passed down by local people ancestors.
On the way to the Sethan village campsite, the trail passes by a large potato farm — one of the biggest in Himachal. The village of Sethan is inhabited by the Khampas, a horse-rearing community that migrated from Spiti and Kinnaur. The group finally arrives at the Sethan campsite, set amidst silver fir trees and the expansive potato farm. In the evening, explore the Sethan camp and participate in planned evening activities. Overnight stay at the Sethan campsite.
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