Bara Bhangal Trek – An Unforgettable Himalayan Adventure
Brief Description:
- Grade: Difficult
- Location: Himachal Pradesh
- Altitude: 4665 m
- Duration: 8 Days
Bara Bhangal is one of the most challenging yet thrilling treks in Himachal Pradesh. The journey takes you across the breathtaking Dhauladhar range into the Pir Panjal range of the lower Himalayas, leading to the remote village of Bara Bhangal, home to Himalayan shepherds. This trek offers a mesmerizing experience through rugged mountain passes, glacial terrains, and ancient monasteries.
BARA BHANGAL TREKKING
The Dhauladhar range separates the Kangra and Kullu valleys, while to the north lie the spectacular snow-covered peaks of Lahaul and Spiti—a true paradise for mountaineers. This high-altitude trek, which concludes at Bir near Dharamsala (often called mini Lhasa and the seat of His Holiness the Dalai Lama), presents a strikingly beautiful and diverse landscape every day. Due to its remoteness and difficulty, only a few trekkers dare to explore this incredible region.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Bir
Upon arrival at Bir, our team will welcome you and escort you to your hotel. After lunch, you can explore the local sights. The region provides stunning views of the Dhauladhar mountains and offers adventure activities such as paragliding. A visit to the nearby waterfalls or the famous paragliding landing site can be a refreshing experience in the evening.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel/Homestay
Day 2: Bir to Palachak (2700 m)
On the second day, we begin our trek from Bir to Palachak, taking approximately 5 to 6 hours. The trail passes through the renowned Paragliding Takeoff site at Billing and traverses lush Pine and Deodar forests. We continue towards Rajgundha Valley before reaching our campsite at Palachak.
- Meals: Breakfast, Pack lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tents
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
- Altitude: 2700 m
Day 3: Palachak to Bhadhpall (3980 m)
This day involves a thrilling trek from Palachak to Bhadhpall, covering a distance that takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. As we ascend, the landscape becomes increasingly stunning. Night stay at Bhadhpall campsite.
- Meals: Breakfast, Pack lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tents
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
- Altitude: 3980 m
Day 4: Bhadhpall to Udeg/Marhi via Thamsar Pass (3690 m)
A demanding yet rewarding day, this section of the trek takes us over Thamsar Pass. Along the way, we pass the glacial Thamsar Lake, where we can replenish our water supplies. The pass offers breathtaking views of the Bara Bhangal Valley. We finally reach Marhi, where we will camp overnight.
- Meals: Breakfast, Pack lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tents
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
- Altitude: 3690 m
Day 5: Marhi to Bara Bhangal (3690 m)
We start our trek to the remote village of Bara Bhangal, located above the confluence of the Ravi and Kalihani rivers. Covering an area of 290 square miles, Bara Bhangal is surrounded by the districts of Mandi, Chamba, and Lahaul. In the evening, we enjoy a delicious dinner and some engaging activities before an overnight stay at the campsite.
- Meals: Breakfast, Pack lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tents
- Trek Duration: 4-6 hours
- Altitude: 3690 m
Day 6: Rest Day at Bara Bhangal
This day is set aside for rest and acclimatization. You can explore the village, interact with the locals, or simply relax and prepare for the upcoming trek.
- Meals: Breakfast, Pack lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tents
- Altitude: 2541 m
Day 7: Bara Bhangal to Dhardi (2550 m)
A long and challenging trek covering 18 km through strenuous terrain. The trail leads through steep rock cliffs and deep gorges. A notable feature of this stretch is a tricky rock face located 200 feet above the river. Upon reaching Dhardi, we settle in for the night.
- Meals: Breakfast, Pack lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tents
- Trek Duration: 4-6 hours
- Altitude: 2550 m
Day 8: Dhardi to Nayagraon (2245 m) & Departure
The final stretch of the trek takes us through meadows and forested trails before reaching the village of Nayagraon. A steel cable bridge crossing marks the last phase of our adventure. From here, our journey concludes as we prepare for departure.
- Meals: Breakfast, Pack lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tents/Homestay
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
- Altitude: 2245 m
