PIN BHABA Pass Trek – HIMACHAL

🏔️ PIN BHABA PASS TREK – HIMACHAL

Region: Kafnu (Bhaba Valley) → Mulling → Kara → Pushtirang → Pin Bhaba Pass → Mudh (Spiti)

Difficulty: Difficult

Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

Max Altitude: ~4,900m

Price From: ₹14,500

⭐ Short Overview

The Pin Bhaba Pass trek is one of the grandest crossover treks in India. It begins in the lush green forests and meadows of Bhaba Valley, climbs to the high-altitude pass at nearly 4,900m, and then drops dramatically into the cold desert of Spiti Valley.

The contrast of landscapes is unmatched — one side is green, alpine, and vibrant; the other is vast, barren, and Mars-like.

This trek is demanding due to altitude, long days, and steep climbs, making it suitable for trekkers with prior experience.

1. Difficulty Breakdown

Overall Difficulty: Difficult

Expect long days, steep climbs, and altitude challenges.

Why It’s Difficult

• Long summit day (8–10 hours)

• High altitude (4,900m)

• Steep ascent to the pass

• Scree/snow sections depending on season

Trail Type

• Forest trails

• Meadows

• Alpine valleys

• Rocky climbs

• High-altitude pass traverse

Daily Distance

• 5–15 km per day

Fitness Requirements

• Ability to walk 7–8 hours/day

• Prior high-altitude trek recommended

• Strong leg strength + endurance

Who Should Avoid

• First-time trekkers

• People with low stamina

• Anyone uncomfortable with high altitude

2. Day-Wise Itinerary

Day 1: Shimla → Kafnu

• 7–8 hr scenic drive through Kinnaur

• Stay in homestay/camp

• Trek briefing

Day 2: Kafnu → Mulling

• Forest walk with river crossings

• Gradual ascent

• Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs

Day 3: Mulling → Kara

• Meadows and alpine streams

• Wide valley views

• Trek Duration: 4–5 hrs

Day 4: Kara → Pushtirang

• Sharp climb into alpine terrain

• Base camp below Pin Bhaba Pass

• Trek Duration: 4 hrs

Day 5: Pushtirang → Pin Bhaba Pass → Mangrungse

The main summit day:

• Steep climb to ~4,900m pass

• Dramatic crossover from green valley → cold desert

• Long descent to Mangrungse

• Trek Duration: 8–10 hrs

Day 6: Mangrungse → Mudh (Spiti)

• Easy final descent

• Trek ends at Mudh village, Pin Valley

Day 7: Mudh → Kaza → Manali (Drive)

• Drive across stunning Spiti landscapes

• Return to Manali or stay in Kaza

3. Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

• Tents + sleeping bags + mats

• All meals during trek

• Trek leader + support crew

• Permits & camping fees

• Safety gear

Exclusions

• Transport to/from Shimla or Manali

• Personal gear rental

• Porter/mule services

• Any expenses not mentioned

4. How to Reach

Start Point: Shimla → Kafnu

End Point: Mudh (Spiti Valley)

Transport options:

• Shared cabs

• Private taxis

• Bus + taxi combinations via Kinnaur

Return through:

• Kaza → Manali
  or

• Shimla (longer route)

5. Stay & Food

Stay

• Kafnu: Homestay

• Trek days: Tented accommodation

Food

• Hot vegetarian meals

• Tea/snacks

• Packed lunches

6. Weather & Safety

Weather

• June–July: Snow patches, colder

• August: Greener valley, stable weather

• September: Clear skies, best visibility

Safety

• Guide-managed altitude pacing

• Snow section safety (early season)

• Mandatory acclimatization stops

7. Best Time to Trek

• June to September
  Avoid early October due to unpredictable snow and wind.

8. Packing List

Mandatory

• Trekking shoes

• Warm layers + padded jacket

• Rain protection

• Trekking poles

• Headlamp

• Sunglasses

• Water bottles

Optional

• Gaiters

• Microspikes (if early season)

• Power bank

9. FAQs

Q. How difficult is the pass crossing?
Steep ascent + long descent — requires stamina and acclimatization.

Q. Is Pin Bhaba harder than Hampta Pass?
Yes — higher altitude, longer days, more demanding terrain.

Q. Is it safe?
Yes, with certified guides and proper acclimatization.

Q. Any network during trek?
No network after Kafnu.

Ready to experience the most dramatic valley-to-desert crossover in India?