Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
4 days
Highest Altitude
12,185 ft
Age
8 to 62 years
Duration
4 days
Age
8 to 62 years
Difficulty
Moderate
Highest Altitude
12,185 ft
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Chandrakhani Pass Trek
There is an interesting story about the Chandrakhani Pass. In ancient times, the presiding God of Malana, God Jamlu was carrying all the gods in a pot on this route. He opened the basket full of Gods on top of the Chandrakhani pass. A strong wind blew the gods away and they settled in various spots in the valley. Which is why even now the Kullu valley is called the valley of gods.
Chandrakhani pass is not a new trek in Indian trekking circles. Along with the ancient stories of Naggar (where the trek starts) and the village with strange customs, Malana (where the trek ends), this route is one of the most trekked on in India.
This trek is a cultural treasure for those who want to know more about the Kullu Valley. The villages, the architecture, the people, costume and culture is a living history book. The trek is also an ancient sphederd’s trail. So don’t be surprised to find hundreds of sheep herded by a shepherd on your trail. The many shepherd huts on the way are good rest points. Some may even offer you tea!
The trek is also known for the beauty of its forests on either side.It lifts trekkers spirit with joy. The forests are cool, dark and throws in a lot of variety. At times you are under deodar trees, at others you have maples over you, then oaks. The forests have almost been crafted for whistling through them. The smell of the woods is always with you.
Once outside the tree line, the grasslands of the upper Kullu valley is a delightful trek. If you have a clear sky the views of both the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges dominate the horizon.
Finally, the ridge walk to the summit is rare. In none of our treks do we have a ridge walk, almost like walking on a cornice to the summit (in this case the pass). The wind on the summit ridge can be strong, yet the adventurous thrill of getting to the pass is high. The view on all sides is astounding.
We do not take the direct sharp descent from the pass to Malana. Instead, we go further ahead to the Dadru forest area and camp there.
The Chandrakhani pass has a lot of history, culture and stories around it. Trekkers have yet another terrific trek to do in July-August in Himachal Pradesh.
Quick Itinerary
Day 1
Drive from Manali to Rumsu. Trek from Rumsu to Naya Tapru
Drive Distance: 28 km | Drive Duration: 1 hour | Trek Distance: 6 km | Trek Duration: 6 hours | Altitude Gain: 6,745 ft to 10,430 ft
The pick-up is from Rambaugh Circle, Manali and will leave at 8.00 AM. The cab fare is not included in the trek fee. It is to be shared by trekkers and paid directly to the driver. Trek to Naya Tapru campsite (6 hours trek).
Day 2
Trek from Naya Tapru to Chaklani
Trek Distance: 2.5 km | Trek Duration: 2.5 hours | Altitude Gain: 10,430 ft to 11,368 ft
Day 3
Trek from Chaklani to Nagruni via Chandrakhani Pass
Trek Distance: 9.2 km | Trek Duration: 9 hours | Altitude Gain/Loss: 11,368 ft to 11,145 ft via 12,185 ft
Day 4
Trek from Nagruni to Malana via Magic valley. Drive back to Manali
Trek Distance: 3.6 km | Trek Duration: 3 hours | Altitude Loss: 11,145 ft to 8,260 ft
IMPORTANT POINTS
- It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo ID for entry at forest check posts on the trek.
- On the trek, you will be staying 3 in a tent on all days.
- We have a cloakroom facility at the base camp for excess luggage. Do not leave behind any valuables in the cloakroom.
Please note: Twin-sharing tents may not be available in May, June, July and August. This is because raw materials for making tents are sourced from different countries. But their export has been affected due to international unrest. This has led to a global shortage of tents. Having said that, you'll still have comfortable space as these tents have been designed to accommodate three trekkers.
PRO-TIPS
Onward Travel
Start from Rambaugh Circle, Manali by 8.00 AM. The pick up will be arranged by us. The cost of this is not included in the trek fee. It is to be shared by trekkers and paid directly to the driver.
Return Travel
On the last day, you have a 5 hours drive. The cost of transport from Malana to Manali to be shared by trekkers and paid directly to the driver.
Why I Believe Everyone Must Trek: A Note from the Founder
Trekking transforms lives. It has completely changed my life. When I see my colleagues at Indiahikes, all of them have been impacted greatly. The transformations have been profound and irreversible.
I see it in our trekkers too. I have seen them change professions, careers or start a new life. I have seen them get in and out of relationships, and start new projects. These are life-changing experiences.
I have seen children building resilience. I have seen families come together. When I see those above 55, I see them rediscover passion and a sense of purpose. These are not small gains.
In the mountains new professions, new economies and new businesses have opened up. Our staff no longer go to cities to earn their living. Their income has increased. Above all, they are happiest working in this world. Trekking has been truly transformative.
Everyone must trek. It transforms lives far more than you imagine.
What We Like About the Chandrakhani Pass Trek
Chandrakhani Pass is Best Discovered Through Photos
The famous ridge walk just after the pass. Chandrakhani Pass is the only pass crossing trek where have this unique, almost 3 km long ridge walk.
Picture by: Akhil, Indiahikes Guide
The ridge walk
Know Your Trek
We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.
Use this section to learn about the Chandrakhani Pass trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.
PRO TIPS
Why Fitness Matters on Chandrakhani Pass Trek
On Moderate treks, you walk for about 6-8 km each day. The ascents and descents could get steep. The maximum altitude will range between 12,000 ft to 14,000 ft. You’ll come across tricky patches frequently (like snow or scree), which require you to navigate with a certain amount of caution. There might also be small stream/river crossings.
Your goal is to 5 km with an intention to finish within 35 minutes.
Note: If you are above the age of 58 years, you'll also need to submit your Treadmill Test within 7 days of registration.
Available Dates
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