Day 04: Sethan Village – Kharimindiyary (3120m) 4 hours Trek.
The trek begins with a moderate section through forests of silver fir, Bhujpattar, oak, and chestnut. Continuing en route to Kharimindiyari, the trail leads through numerous shepherds’ meadows and areas with natural spring water. As the trek progresses, it rises above the tree line and begins to traverse horizontally. Kharimindiyari is situated on a grassy knoll at the base of Rourikhauri. From the campsite, you’ll enjoy enchanting views of the Dhauladhar range and its towering peaks — Hanuman Tibba, Shikhar-bey, Maker-bey, and Friendship Peak. The campsite also offers a panoramic view of Chanderkhani Pass and the Malana Valley.
The Soroutoo area, known locally as ‘Thach’ meadow, is a popular grazing ground for Gaddi shepherds, who bring their herds of sheep to these vast grassy expanses. Keep an eye out for the rare sighting of a black or brown bear family, often seen below the campsite near the ridge of Bhujdhar and Zameer.
The Kharimindiyari campsite is set in an open puff. In the evening, you may choose to explore the nearby snowfields or participate in evening activities. “As soon as the fitness activities are completed, the entire group will be taken for a height-gaining trek of about 100 meters, keeping in mind a smooth acclimatization process – ‘Go higher, sleep lower’. Overnight stay at Kharimindiyari campsite.
Day 05: Kharimindiyari – Raurikhauri (3750m) 5 hours trek.
A short steep section must be climbed to reach a certain point, after which the trail continues in a zigzag pattern all the way to Raurikhauri. On the way, one can enjoy the scenic beauty of a small mountain tarn nestled in the treeless landscape — a shepherd’s paradise, often filled with herds of grazing sheep. The landscape is rich in flora and fauna, offering a luminous view of the Kullu and Manali valleys.
According to locals, this place is also associated with the Pandavas, who are believed to have attempted to build a suspension bridge here, just below Bhrigu Lake, at a spot known as Panduropa. However, as night fell, they were unable to complete it. Just before reaching the top of Raurikhauri, you are treated to panoramic views of two majestic mountain ranges — the Dhauladhar Range and the Pir Panjal Range, which converge at Rohtang Pass, beyond which the terrain becomes the Greater Himalayas.
At the top of Raurikhauri, there are splendid views of Hanuman Tibba, Tentu Pass, Makar-bey, the Beas Kund mountain massif, and the rugged landscape of Bara Bhangal. Overnight stay at Raurikhauri campsite.
Day 06: Raurikhauri- Naag Saur Lake Exploration (Glaciated Lake 4410m) and High Point (4500m) and back to Camp -6/7 hours Trek.
A short but steep climb leads up to the col, after which the trail ascends steadily uphill towards the end of the mountain ridge basin. At the basin of the Naag Saur Lake, a wide open foreground awaits, which must be crossed over a patchy terrain of rocks or snow, depending on the season.
While walking through the snowy field, trekkers are rewarded with splendid views of distant, snowcapped mountains and shimmering alpine lakes. The climb along the ridge, though enjoyable, is often windy, with a chill breeze blowing across the exposed slopes. It can be a tiring walk across the long snowy stretch, but the refreshing mountain air and enchanting open views make it a memorable experience.
As you ascend, you’ll have to navigate an uphill climb through a slippery, snow-covered gully leading to a flat mountain top. From here, the view of the Kullu and Manali valleys is both breathtaking and heart-touching. During the initial piloting trek, we were fortunate enough to spot black bears near the start of the mountain ridge.
From this point, the trail continues in a zigzag path through a rocky gully, eventually leading up to the Holy Lake. The route from Raurikhauri to Naag Saur (Glaciated) Lake is truly captivating, offering endless opportunities to witness 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and the luminous valleys of Kullu and Manali. This section of the journey truly gives the feel of a mountaineering expedition.
Once at the top near the Naag Saur Lake, trekkers often feel as if they’ve touched the footsteps of the Holy Gods of the mountains — as the locals tells. After some rest, head to the lake viewpoint and the high point of the ridge (4500m) for a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding peaks. From this vantage point, trekkers can see a vast range of snow-covered peaks rising above 6200 meters.
Notable peaks visible from here include:
• Mt. Deo Tibba
• Indrasan
• Inderkilla
• Rohtang Pass
• Beas Kund area peaks
• Mt. Hanuman Tibba
• Chhota Bhangal
• Kaliheyni Pass
• Khanpari Tibba of the Dhauladhar range
At the summit, the entire group should perform a Pooja (prayer ceremony) for self-purification, gratitude, and to seek blessings for a safe and successful descent.
While descending back to Raurikhauri, trekkers can enjoy glissading on compact snow — an exhilarating and fun experience. The return trail is rich in Himalayan flora and fauna, offering opportunities for nature photography. The descent is filled with joy, vast mountain snowy meadows, and cool mountain breezes. Today’s trek is one of great exploration, natural beauty, and unforgettable adventure.
Day 07: Rourikhauri- Base Camp Shuru via Sethan Tea Stall (2675M). 6hrs.
The day begins at 6:00 AM with a warm-up session for all participants.
After breakfast, the group will begin descending along the same route, passing by the Kharimindiyari campsite. While descending, trekkers can enjoy superb views of the surrounding mountains and the rich Himalayan flora. A short stop can be made at Kharimindiyari for tea, as this point is well-known and frequently visited by trekkers en route. The trail continues down to the Sethan Tea Stall. This stretch is a strenuous and steep descent, making it one of the most tiring days of the trek. It takes approximately one and a half hours to reach the tea stall, where road connectivity begins.
At the Tea Stall, participants will meet the mountain utility Jeep or Tempo Traveller and begin the drive back to Shuru Base Camp. From here, it’s a relatively easy off-road drive through the scenic Hamta hills. The road zigzags down past Prini, marking the official end of the trek. Overnight stay at Shuru Base Camp.
Day 08: Half day free and in the evening, departure by bus to Delhi
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