Name: Pin Parvati Pass Trek

Approx elevation: 17,450 ft

Grade: Difficult

Starting Point: Kasol

#1. Which one is better option ? To cross Pin Parvati Pass from Parvati Valley (Kasol) or Pin Valley (Kaza) ?

It’s a tricky question as both approaches are worthy. The reason for this is due to the stark contrast of both the valleys. Parvati Valley of Kullu is an enchanted Green Paradise. Everything here is larger than life. The trees, the cascading waterfalls, the meadows, the mountainous topography.

After the crossover, the barren Cold Desert of Pin Valley is an outlandish beauty. The twist is brutal, almost poetic. It takes a while to grasp the change. It seems you been doing two different journeys. When one ends and the other began you just don’t get to comprehend.

We recommend starting the trek from Parvati Valley. It is more beautiful by entering the green valley than exiting it. You get more time to absorb its beauty this way. As you enter deeper, the grounds of Odi Thach and Mantalai reveals secrets never have seen before. It also helps you to acclimatize better.

#2. Is Pin Parvati Pass Trek for Experienced Trekkers only?

Pin Parvati is not recommended for beginners. Prior experience of a high altitude Trek Himalayan trek is essential. Basically a person should have completed a trek of 6-7 days of an elevation of 14,000 ft or above.The Pin Parvati Pass is one of the most enthralling and challenging trekking trails in India and is only recommended for trekkers with previous experience but it is sure to delight and challenge even the most seasoned trekkers.

#3. What are the hazards associated with this trek?

This 100 km trans Himalayan trail is full with adventure that comes with its share of risks. Pin Parvati Pass Trek, that lies at an altitude of 17,450 ft, you need to take proper care of your health, food. Keep your body enough hydrated as more the elevation more your body can suffer from less oxygen.

The trails are not well marked and some sections are broken in parts or completely. Trails are run over by hundreds of small streams during monsoon. Following the route inside the dense forest can confuse even the most experienced trekkers. Crossing the Parvati River and its tributaries can be a tiresome experience. Crossing the big boulders even after roped up is tedious job and traversing the long glacier patches and sleeping over snow on the Pass has its own difficulties.

Apart from that, there is no option to carry your loads on mules so a 10-day trek with a 15 kg backpack can be difficult for a fit trekker.

#4. What is the minimum duration required to complete Pin Parvati Pass Trek ?

Pin Parvati Pass is approximately 100-km trek. Ideally it takes 10 days and 9 nights to complete the trek. Its comprises of 7 nights at higher camps and 1 night each at Kasol and Kaza. This does not include any rest days at higher camps.

Keeping 2 extra days in your schedule is advisable. On the trek weather could get really harsh or a person can get sick having not properly acclimatized. Some minor sickness or injuries like fatigue, gastrointestinal problems, ankle twist is also possible.

Apart from altitude problem, you could also face transportation delay while travelling from Kaza to Manali. We recommend a total of 12 days for Pin Parvati Pass Trek. In any case you can always utilise your extra days relaxing in Kaza or Manali after a long trek.

#5. What is the best time to do Pin Parvati Pass Trek?

Pin Parvati Pass Trek has two best seasons.

1. June mid - July mid.
2. August mid - September mid.

The difference in both windows is to do with the level of snow around the Pin Parvati Pass.

In June-July you will get enough snow to walk on and less streams to cross. Compulsorily keep a pair of gaiters, it will be required while crossing the pass.

While in Aug-Sept you will get less snow but more of streams to cross through and the landscape will be lush green and full of flowers.

#6. How is the weather during the trekking season?

The Parvati Valley has a dazzling weather.

June - July, there is generous amount of snow above Mantalai campsite (4,200 mt). The day temperature remains pleasant but at night, the temperature may dip to sub-zero. The weather could be intense at the higher altitude. You can experience a spell of heavy snowfall or blizzard while crossing the pass.

August-September, You can expect comparatively higher chances of rainfall. The rains swells up the rivers and its tributaries and also makes the route muddy. On many occasions, you will have to cross river and streams above your waist length. Hanging your pair of shoes on your neck will be a common sight. Rockfall chances will be higher so carry a helmet for protection.

#7 Average Temperature :

The average temperature in the day time will be 16°C to 20°C and in night it could -4°C to 4°C

One must bring enough pair of clothes and better quality trekking boots (Water resistance) to cover the whole trek carefully and does not face any difficulties due to cold.

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