Pin Parvati Pass Trek: Best Time to Trek, How to Reach, Things to Do & Packing List

One of the best treks in the Himalayan region is the Pin Parvati Pass Trek. It is considered one of the best treks because it provides the best scenic beauty of Western Himalayas. It is a beautiful trek in Manali with high altitude and nestled in a snowy mountain region. The rainfall here is unpredictable, so monsoon is not the right time to head here. 

The name of Pin Parvati Pass is named after the unique pass-link of Parvati valley of Kullu to Pin Valley in Spiti. The journey begins from Kullu and will end in Manali, as it is an 11 days adventurous trip.

What is the Best Time to Trek?

The beautiful Pin Parvati Pass trek is a beautiful exhilarating journey full of challenging times, taking you through stunning Indian Himalayas. The best time for going on this trek is in the summer months from late June to early September. It is one of the best periods offering relatively stable weather conditions with minimal snowfall and less landslide chances. 

• Late June to Early July: It is ideal for trekkers preferring cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. At high altitudes, there are snowy conditions which are less severe, making the trek safer.

• July to August: It is the peak trekking season offering the best weather conditions. It is also crowded and it’s wise to book accommodations and permits.

• Early September: The weather will start to change in this month and there will be early snowfall possibilities. During this time, it is less crowded and gives you a quieter experience where trekkers will see unpredictable weather conditions. 

From October to May, you should not go trekking here because there is snowfall and extreme rain, which makes things worse for trekkers. 

How to Reach Pin Parvati Pass Trek?

Reach Manali:

By air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), about 50 km from Manali. There are regular flights connecting the airport with major cities like Chandigarh and Delhi.

By train: Chandigarh railway station is closest to Manali, 310 km away and well connected to the city by a taxi or bus. 

By road: Manali has a good system of roads leading to Shimla and Delhi. Regular taxis and buses always operate between these two locations for Manali. 

Manali towards starting point of the trek

By road: The trek starts from Barsheni village or Kaza town in the Spiti Valley. For reaching these starting points, you can travel to from Manali:

• Barsheni: It is just 3-4 hours drive from Manali, taking you through the beautiful Parvati Valley.

• Kaza: A bit of a long journey, 200 km away taking you through beautiful Kunzum pass. The drive will be challenging as the rugged terrain and weather condition keeps changing. 

What are the best Things to Do?

Explore Manali

Manali is such a beautiful place that on this trek, you need to explore Manali as well. So, head to Hidimba Devi temple, Manu temple and the beautiful Solang Valley. Also, enjoy adventurous sports like skiing, zorbing and paragliding. 

Experience the Spiti Valley:

The cold barren desert offers some of the most beautiful experiences ever. From visiting the key monastery to enjoying local cuisine and culture, Kaza in Spiti valley is a must visit. Also, head to Langza and Hikkim villages known for their stunning monasteries and landscapes. 

Go trekking

Pin Parvati Pass takes you through multiple landscapes from rugged terrains and lush meadows, letting you enjoy beautiful panoramic views. You also get to enjoy the quaint little mud village town known for its traditional surroundings. Also, head to Tundra village to marvel at the wildflowers and its unique flora in the nearby meadows. 

Stargazing while camping

Head to the many camping sites here and enjoy camping amidst the clear mountain skies offering opportunities for stargazing.

Packing List

Here is what you need for Pin Parvati Trek. 

Clothing

• When it comes to clothing, you will require a few things like:

• Moisture-wicking base layers like thermal bottoms and tops.

• Fleece or down jacket for warmth with insulated layers.

• Windproof and waterproof jackets and pants.

• Quick-drying and lightweight trekking pants.

• Insulated warm hat, gloves and more for cold temperatures. 

• Sunglasses and cap for sun protection.

Footwear

• Waterproof trekking and sturdy boots having good ankle support.

• You can also have comfortable sandals and shoes to use when you are in the campsite. 

Gear

• A backpack, which is well-fitted, durable and has a capacity of 40-60 liters. 

• Sleeping bag and pad for added insulation and comfort.

• Trekking poles provide stability as it reduces knee strain. 

Nutrition and hydration

• Water Bottles/Hydration Bladder: Ensure you have a means to carry and purify water.

• High-Energy Snacks: Trail mix, energy bars, and other portable snacks.

• Cooking Gear: If not using a guided service, pack a lightweight stove and cooking utensils.

Safety and Navigation:

• First aid kit with bandages, prescription and more. 

• A GPS and compass for navigation. 

Miscellaneous:

• Camera and Binoculars: For capturing and observing the stunning landscapes and wildlife.

• Personal Hygiene Items: Biodegradable soap, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.

7. Permits:

• Ensure you have the necessary permits and permissions for the trek, which may include permissions for entering the Spiti Valley and crossing the Pin Parvati Pass.

Conclusion

Heading to Pin Parvati Pass Trek is one of the best and most rewarding adventures requiring careful preparation and planning. When you choose the right time, you need to ensure you have proper gear, know the challenges and all the routes. Only this way, you will be able to do and enjoy this exhilarating Indian Himalayan trek.