This, the most enchanting trek in the picturesque Kullu Valley moves through forests of pine, deodar and rhododendron; lush green valleys, remote villages and meadows overlooked by the mighty Malana glacier. We also explore beautiful Manali, visit architecturally distinctive city of Chandigarh and enjoy some sightseeing in Delhi.
We head north from Delhi to the green Kullu valley, first stopping in the charming market town of Mandi and then through to the heart of the valley at Manali. Well known as a hippie hangout back in the 1970s, these days Manali is a major centre for all kinds of outdoor activity adventures, from trekking and skiing to paragliding and whitewater rafting. The town itself is interesting, too, with the 16th-century Hadimba temple and some lovely old houses along its winding streets.
Before hitting the trail, we’ll also visit Naggar castle, a stunning old fort, and an art gallery dedicated to the work of Russian avant garde artist Nikolai Roerich, who lived here in the 1930s and 40s. His cottage marks the start of the trek. It’s a moderate ascent up to Ramsu village with its lovely old wooden houses, and on through beautiful forests and then meadows to reach Chanderkhani base.
Chanderkhani pass, at 3,660 metres the high point of the trek, offers spectacular views of the snowcapped Himalayas and the Malana glacier. The trail then descends to the ancient village of Malana. Starkly distinct from surrounding villages in culture and customs, the people here are believed to be the descendants of Alexander’s lost armies. Malana has its own representative administration, considered to be the oldest continuity of a democratic system in the world. After another picturesque pass (Rasol) with more great views, and a lovely descent through lush forests, the trek comes to an end in the pilgrim town of Manikaran, popular for its therapeutic sulphur springs.
For something completely different, our next stop is Chandigarh, the city on the Punjabi plains famous for its modernist Le Corbusier architecture and the extraordinary sculptures at Nek Chand’s Rock Garden. From here it’s back to Delhi for some enjoyable sightseeing.
Please note: You can use this itinerary as a guide to fully customise this tour as per your budget and requirements. Flexible options include travel dates and duration, places visited, activities and experiences, hotel category (star/rating) and any specific requirements that you may have.
Arrival in Delhi. Arrive at the international airport of Delhi. After the traditional welcome transfer to the hotel. Overnight Hotel
Train to Chandigarh & Drive to Mandi (full day). Early morning transfer to the railway station to catch train to Chandigarh. From there drive to Mandi, a small town between Chandigarh and Manali. Overnight Hotel
Mandi – Manali (2000m) (110 kms;3-4 hrs). Today continue into mountains by the same road to reach Manali, a famous hill station in the heart of Kullu Valley. Overnight Hotel
Sight-seeing of Manali. In the local sightseeing programme of Manali visit Hadimba temple in the morning. Rest of the day free to explore this hill resort or go for a short trek into the hills for some acclimatization. Overnight Hotel
Manali – Naggar (1900m) – Ramsu (2200m; 3-4 hrs). After breakfast today drive to Naggar Castle; visit Roerich Art Gallery before the start of the trek to Ramsu village. Overnight Camp
Ramsu – Chandrakhani Base (2378m;4-5 hrs). Trek from Ramsu to Chandrakhani Base camp flowing the well-defined trail. You may see some flocks of buffaloes, brought here by the local shepherds, grazing on the lush grass. Overnight Camp
Chandrakhani Base – Chandrakhani Pass (3660m) – Nagruni (5-6 hrs) Trek across Chandrakhani pass, the highest point on the route. Then ascend through alpine meadows to Nagruni. Overnight Camp
Nagruni – Malana (2652m;4-5 hrs). Trek to Malana Valley with some gradual descents and ascents to reach Malana village, an isolated village with about 50 families who have their own language, customs and law and are governed by the village elders. Overnight Camp
Visit Malana Village, Trek to Rasol Base (3100m;4-5 hrs). Today explore the village life and its rich culture and customs. Later continue trekking to Rasol Base. The trail climbs up through agricultural land with great village views. Overnight Camp
Rasol Base – Kasol (1585m;4-5 hrs). Trek from Rasol base to Kasol via the Rasol pass (3260m0 and then walk downhill through the deodar forest to Kasol and camp by the river. Overnight Camp
Kasol – Manikaran; Trek ends (1760m; 1-2hrs) and Transfer to Kullu (45kms;2 hrs) Trek from Kasol to Manikaran, an easy walk down to the Parvati Valley and the hot springs of Manikaran. Then transfer to Kullu by road. Overnight Hotel
Kullu – Chandigarh (270 kms; 07hrs). In the morning drive to Chandigarh once again and transfer to hotel. Rest of the day free to explore this modern city, the first properly planned city of India. Overnight Hotel
Chandigarh – Delhi (250 kms; 05 hrs). After breakfast drive to Delhi (05hrs). Arrive in Delhi and transfer to the hotel. Evening is free to explore the local Bazaar of Delhi. Overnight Hotel
Delhi Sightseeing & Evening Departure. Morning sightseeing of Delhi includes visits to Red Fort and Jama Masjid in the Old Delhi and fine Colonial Buildings in the New Delhi area. Evening departure transfer to the airport.
Flexibility Guaranteed! Using the above itinerary as a guide you can fully customise this tour as per your budget and requirements. Flexible options include travel dates and duration, places, activities and experiences, hotel category (star/rating) and any specific requirements that you may have. On receiving your enquiry we will respond with prices and work with you to create a truly personalised holiday experience that is in your budget and personal style.
Suitable for families with young children
Highest Point (Max altitude)
Chandrakhani Pass (3660m)
Fitness Grade
5-7 hours activity per day with steep uphill and downhill sections or high passes. Some days at high altitudes, good level of physical fitness recommended.
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