MIYAR VALLEY TREK
A Trek that takes you to the Heart of Lahaul
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TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
TREK DURATION
7 days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
13,202 ft
TOTAL TREK DISTANCE
60.2 km
BASECAMP
Khanjer
ACCOMMODATION TYPE
Tents
PICKUP POINT
PICKUP TIME
8 AM
DROPOFF TIME
9 PM
A Trek that takes you to the Heart of Lahaul
Very few people in our country have trekked in Lahaul. Hidden across the Rohtang Pass, which would remain closed through most of the year, the region was cut off for trekkers. But with the opening of the Atal Tunnel, came the possibility of trekking in Lahaul throughout the monsoons, when Lahaul is at its lushest best.
In this remote region of Lahaul, a valley filled with flowers hangs quietly, escaping the attention of trekkers. The route to this valley alternates between remote mountain valleys, quaint villages, and flower beds dominated by the overwhelming presence of Himalayan orchids. This valley is Miyar Valley.
The S-shaped Miyar Valley sits in between Zanskar and Chamba. It is nearly 75 km long. The Miyar glacier is nearly 36 km long to Kang La (17,600 ft pass to Zanskar).
Miyar Valley - Complete Trek Information
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 Miyar Valley 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.
A route map of the Miyar Valley trek
Day 1
Drive from Manali to Khanjer
Drive Distance: 140 km | Drive Duration: 5-6 hours | Pick up point for Indiahikes trekkers: Beas Bridge, Manali
Transport will be arranged at 8 AM. This cost has to be borne by trekkers and paid directly to the driver. Cost of the cab – Rs 11,000 per Tempo Traveller (12 seaters), Rs 8,000 for a Tata Sumo (5-6 seater), shared among trekkers. The vehicle will be non-AC.
At Khanjer, you will be staying at homestays. The fee for this homestay is included in your trek fee.
Day 2
Trek from Khanjer to Yolling
Trek Distance: 9.2 km | Altitude Gain: 11,564 ft to 12,345 ft
Easy-Moderate. Gradual climb through a series of switchbacks till Tharang.
Day 3
Trek from Yolling to Zardong
Trek Distance: 12 km | Altitude Gain: 12,345 ft to 12,667 ft
Goes through the village route with farmlands on the right. You cross a river bridge and also come across a wide open field.
Day 4
Trek from Zardong to Palpu via Kesar Yon Choo | optional trek to Miyar Origin
Trek Distance: 12.5 km | Altitude Gain: 12,667 ft to 12,782 via 13,202 ft
Start with a descent, followed by a steep section towards Stupa. After that the trail is gradual. Landscape frequently changes colour.
Day 5
Trek from Palpu to Gompa
Trek Distance: 12.5 km | Altitude Gain: 12,782 ft to 12,828 ft
Day 6
Trek from Gompa to Tharang
Trek Distance: 7.5 km | Altitude Loss: 12,828 ft to 12,270 ft
Day 7
Trek from Tharang to Khanjer. Drive to Manali
Trek Distance: 7.5 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude Loss: 12,270 ft to 6,730 ft via 11,564 ft
Drive Distance: 140 km | Drive Duration: 5-6 hours | Drop off point for Indiahikes trekkers: Beas Bridge, Manali
Transport will be arranged by Indiahikes. This cost has to be borne by trekkers and paid directly to the driver. Cost of the cab – Rs 11,000 per Tempo Traveller (12 seaters), Rs 8,000 for a Tata Sumo (5-6 seater), shared among trekkers. You will be reaching Manali by 7 to 8.00 pm
IMPORTANT POINTS
- It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo ID for entry at forest check posts on the trek.
- At the base camp in Khanjer on Day 1, your stay will be arranged in homestays. However, this is not included in the trek fee. Charges will be Rs. 400 per head to be borne by the trekker.
- Book your return tickets for day 8 as traffic in Manali is causing unpredictable delays.
IMPORTANT UPDATE (As of July 2024): The tourism department of Himachal Pradesh has stopped permitting children below 14 to do the Miyar Valley trek. This is a recent edition of regulations after the Sahasratal incident.
Day 1: Drive from Manali to Khanjer
Duration: 5 to 6 hours | Drive Distance: 140 km
Altitude Gain: ⇗ 4,834 ft (6,730 ft to 11,564 ft)
Highlights: Watch out for the waterfall at Sissu. The confluence of Chandra and Bhaga rivers at Tunde.
The drive from Manali to Khanjer goes through Atal Tunnel. Notice the drastic change in terrain, landscapes, and climate. Lahaul is a place of mystic beauty.
Watch out from the window and spot famous pilgrimages and sights such as Triloknath mandir (at Tunde), and Tandi (where the confluence of the rivers Chandra and Bhaga happens).
One can see the stark contrast between the Lahaul and Kullu regions of Himachal. Going through the Atal tunnel is like entering a wormhole where you enter two different worlds through this portal. The drive goes alongside the Chenab river going through loose sedimentary rocky sections and steep folded mountains, All around you are snow-capped mountains. The vegetation for the most part is coniferous trees and some shrubs.
The drive from Manali to Khanjer goes through Atal Tunnel. Notice the drastic change in terrain, landscapes, and climate. Lahaul is a place of mystic beauty.
Watch out from the window and spot famous pilgrimages and sights such as Triloknath mandir (at Tunde), and Tandi (where the confluence of the rivers Chandra and Bhaga happens).
One can see the stark contrast between the Lahaul and Kullu regions of Himachal. Going through the Atal tunnel is like entering a wormhole where you enter two different worlds through this portal. The drive goes alongside the Chenab river going through loose sedimentary rocky sections and steep folded mountains, All around you are snow-capped mountains. The vegetation for the most part is coniferous trees and some shrubs.
Notice the fields in this region. The locals of Lahaul grow food crops, majorly iceberg lettuce.
The most beautiful part of the road trip would be to witness waterfalls on your left at Sissu. Tandi is where the road diverts to two places - one on Leh Manali highway and the other toward Udaipur. Tandi is also the place where two rivers confluence namely Chandra and Bhaga.
Udaipur before the year 1695 was known as Margul. It is the sub-divisional headquarters of Lahaul and gets its name from Raja Udai Singh of Chamba. Udaipur is famously known for Triloknath and Margul Devi Temple.
The road ends at Khanjar. You cross a suspension bridge that hangs over Miyar Nala to enter Kanjer village. This is the last village on the route. It is 31 km from Shukto. There are 13 villages inside this valley.
Day 2: Trek from Khanjer to Yolling
Trek Distance: 9.2 km
Altitude Gain: ⇗ 781 ft (11,564 ft to 12,345 ft)
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate. Gradual climb through a series of switchbacks till Yolling.
Highlights: The farmlands grow a variety of crops. Pretty villages and a cricket ground.
This region has three distinct types of soils: Alluvial, Hill-type and Meadow type. The region supports cultivation only from June to September. The villagers mainly grow iceberg lettuce, seed potatoes, apples, sea buckthorns, cauliflowers, barley, asafoetida, and medicinal plants such as Kuth (Saucerrea Lappa), mannu (Innu Racemosa).
From here the trail starts in a series of switchbacks while farms accompany you to the first campsite, Yolling. The place has a beautiful water stream nearby. Also, the flat meadow is used by locals to play cricket on occasions.
You also find many steep rockfaces around this region which have attracted the attention of rock-climbers.
This region has three distinct types of soils: Alluvial, Hill-type and Meadow type. The region supports cultivation only from June to September. The villagers mainly grow iceberg lettuce, seed potatoes, apples, sea buckthorns, cauliflowers, barley, asafoetida, and medicinal plants such as Kuth (Saucerrea Lappa), mannu (Innu Racemosa).
From here the trail starts in a series of switchbacks while farms accompany you to the first campsite, Yolling. The place has a beautiful water stream nearby. Also, the flat meadow is used by locals to play cricket on occasions.
You also find many steep rockfaces around this region which have attracted the attention of rock-climbers.
One of the best part of the day is that, you pass by Tharang. You get to view Lahaul’s second-highest and most beautiful peak, Menthosa. It is known as the crown of Miyar Valley.
Day 3: Trek from Yolling to Zardong
Trek Distance: 12 km
Altitude Gain: ⇗ 322 ft (12,345 ft to 12,667 ft)
Highlights: The rocky mountain massif of Tharang. The pretty campsite of Zardong.
In the course of the whole trek, this is a slightly more challenging day. The trek initially is a flat walk and then there is a 10-15 minute descent to the bridge. From the bridge, there is a 20-minute steep climb towards Gompa and to the right is Gompa Nala. A little ahead you will find a shepherd's hut and around is a small water body which is also known as Gompa lake.
From the shepherd’s hut, for 30 minutes the route gradually descends towards a flat meadow patch. From here a stretch of boulder section comes which again takes you up and down, the section gets slightly tricky because you will be walking over the edges at certain points. Also, the ups and downs across boulder sections can get slightly tiring. But the steep pyramidical mountains surround you all around.
Eventually, the route descends to a flat region alongside the river. Here, the best part is to feel the beach-type walks and the constant gushing water.
In the course of the whole trek, this is a slightly more challenging day. The trek initially is a flat walk and then there is a 10-15 minute descent to the bridge. From the bridge, there is a 20-minute steep climb towards Gompa and to the right is Gompa Nala. A little ahead you will find a shepherd's hut and around is a small water body which is also known as Gompa lake.
From the shepherd’s hut, for 30 minutes the route gradually descends towards a flat meadow patch. From here a stretch of boulder section comes which again takes you up and down, the section gets slightly tricky because you will be walking over the edges at certain points. Also, the ups and downs across boulder sections can get slightly tiring. But the steep pyramidical mountains surround you all around.
Eventually, the route descends to a flat region alongside the river. Here, the best part is to feel the beach-type walks and the constant gushing water.
As you move more inwards the valley, the valley after every Nala gets wider and grander. Everywhere you look around there are valley openings. The trail is covered with multiple types of flowers.
Day 4: Trek from Zardong to Palpu via Kesar Yon Choo | optional trek to Miyar Origin
Trek Distance: 12.5 km
Altitude Gain: ⇗ 535 ft (12,667 ft to 12,782 via 13,202 ft)
The route walks alongside the river. The major portion involves flat walks. You'll come across the region by the name Chhudong.
Chhudong is a huge meadow patch which is located right next to the river. The river here is very soothing and wider than anywhere else along the trek. The murky water on your right goes all the way to the snout. Since the valley has an active river running in between, by just walking alongside the river the trail is well marked and easily noticeable. It's hard for anyone to get confused about the route.
Palpu is located near Castle Peak which again is a very beautiful campsite which offers a good view of the valley and Tharang peaks. From here if the weather is clear the chances of viewing Menthosa are also high.
The route walks alongside the river. The major portion involves flat walks. You'll come across the region by the name Chhudong.
Chhudong is a huge meadow patch which is located right next to the river. The river here is very soothing and wider than anywhere else along the trek. The murky water on your right goes all the way to the snout. Since the valley has an active river running in between, by just walking alongside the river the trail is well marked and easily noticeable. It's hard for anyone to get confused about the route.
Palpu is located near Castle Peak which again is a very beautiful campsite which offers a good view of the valley and Tharang peaks. From here if the weather is clear the chances of viewing Menthosa are also high.
If you decide to got to the Glacier, you will go to the snout of the glacier which comes after going through a boulder section and a stream. Eventually, you reach a place which is the last small meadow patch located near seven icy ponds, this place is known as Kesar Yon Chu. From here on the actual glacier starts. The snout of the glacier is just 30 minutes from the ponds.
Once you have reached the snout, Spend a good amount of time. Then return from here on the same route. There are two more river crossings on the way back.
Day 5: Trek from Palpu to Gompa
Trek Distance: 12.5 km
Altitude Gain and Loss: ⇗ 46 ft (12,782 ft to 12,828 ft)
Day 6: Trek from Gompa to Tharang
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Trek Distance: 7.5 km
Altitude Loss: ⇘ 512 ft (12,828 ft to 12,270 ft)
Highlights:
The route walks alongside the river, Major portion involves flat walks. We come across the region by the name Chhudong. Chhudong is a huge meadow patch which is located right next to the river. The river here is very soothing and wider than anywhere else along the trek. The murky water on your right goes all the way to the snout. Since the valley has an active river running in between the valley, by just walking along-side the river it is well marked and easily noticeable, it's hard for anyone to get confused about the route.
After the flat meadows of Chhudong, the valley squeezes with boulder patches. Then comes the cold stream from a valley right to you. Here the Stream comes from the same valley which also has Never Seen Tower and Castle Peak. Again the trail gets flatter and you walk next to the river. After a while again the boulder patches with few water streams need to be negotiated.
The route walks alongside the river, Major portion involves flat walks. We come across the region by the name Chhudong. Chhudong is a huge meadow patch which is located right next to the river. The river here is very soothing and wider than anywhere else along the trek. The murky water on your right goes all the way to the snout. Since the valley has an active river running in between the valley, by just walking along-side the river it is well marked and easily noticeable, it's hard for anyone to get confused about the route.
After the flat meadows of Chhudong, the valley squeezes with boulder patches. Then comes the cold stream from a valley right to you. Here the Stream comes from the same valley which also has Never Seen Tower and Castle Peak. Again the trail gets flatter and you walk next to the river. After a while again the boulder patches with few water streams need to be negotiated.
Day 7: Trek from Tharang to Khanjer. Drive to Manali
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Trek Duration: 7.5 km
Drive Duration: 5-6 hour | Drive Distance: 140 km
Altitude Loss: ⇘ 5,540 ft (12,270 ft to 6,730 ft via 11,564 ft)
Difficulty: Easy, almost flat walk till Thareng.
Highlights: The flat walks in the valley.
Walking toward the Thanpattan region is beautiful and looks like Clint Eastwood's movie scenes. For kilometres, it's flat walks. It's quite dramatic to walk back.
Walking toward the Thanpattan region is beautiful and looks like Clint Eastwood's movie scenes. For kilometres, it's flat walks. It's quite dramatic to walk back.
Moderate
Suitable for Fit Beginners
At Indiahikes, while rating a trek difficulty we consider a number of factors. These include altitude gained every day, length of trek every day, highest altitude, nature of the terrain, weather etc. Based on this we rate a trek as easy or difficult or somewhere in between.
Miyar Valley Trek is a Moderate trek on a difficulty level ranging from easy to difficult.
You start from Manali which is at an altitude of 6,725 ft and reach an altitude of 13,202 ft in a matter of 7 days.
For the most part, though, it is an easy hike through the valley.
However, the terrain demands long hours of walking. You cover an average of 8km everyday.
This makes the trek a moderate one. It is a good trek for fit first-timers.
You will need at least 4 weeks of solid preparation for this trek. You can begin preparation by going for brisk walks and then doing brisk jogs to improve your cardio. Your target should be to cover 5 km in 35 minutes comfortably by the start of the trek.
There are two distinct seasons for the Miyar Valley trek – June-July (Summer) and August-September (Monsoon).
Miyar Valley in Summer (June-July)
Day time: Between 18 °C and 20 °C | Night time: Will drop to temperatures between 10 °C and 5 °C.
Presence of snow: You may find snow patches on the trail, with an increased chance of hard snow closer to Miyar Glacier.
No. of warm layers required: 3 warm layers
In Summer, although you will find patches of hard snow at higher altitudes, the temperature during the day will be slightly warmer than that in Monsoon, when there won’t be any snow on the trek.
Even the air is different. While Summer is dry and crisp, Monsoon is moist.
It’s that time of the year when winter has left the slopes. But, you will still find snow patches on the ground above 10,000 feet.
In Summer, expect pleasant daytime temperatures around 20 °C. But at night it dips to almost zero levels.
During the day if the sun goes behind the clouds and there is about of rain, then the temperature can fall to around 15 °C.
Miyar Valley in Monsoon (August - September)
Day time: Between 15 °C and 18 °C | Night time: Will drop to temperatures between 5 °C and 0 °C.
Presence of snow: You will not find snow, except for the Miyar Glacier in Monsoon.
No. of warm layers required: 3 warm layers
Monsoon is slightly like winter. Colder than Summer, although you won’t find patches of snow.
Nights in Monsoon get chilly. In September the temperature dips to 0° C.
During the day, you will experience temperatures around 15° C. But any rain or slight drizzle brings down the temperature by a few degrees. So keep a jacket handy with you always.
Your trek to Miyar Valley begins right from the heart of Manali. The most prominent town in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh, Manali needs no introduction for a trekker.
On Day 1, our Indiahikes team will pick you up at 8.00 am from Beas Bridge in Manali.
We recommend that you reach Manali by Day Zero, which is one day before Day 1 on the itinerary. For example, if the Day 1 of your trek is 25th August, book your tickets to reach Manali by 24th August. This gives you a buffer to account for unexpected delays and also allows you to rest well before starting your trek.
Here is a detailed guide to help you plan your travel to Manali:
Manali is easily accessible by road from Delhi and Chandigarh. However, the stretch beyond Mandi on NH-3 is prone to frequent landslides, often leading to delays. Keep this in mind while planning your journey.
The easiest way to reach the Manali is to:
- Fly to Delhi, take a direct bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Manali
- Fly to Chandigarh, take a direct bus from Chandigarh to Manali.
Flight options to reach Manali:
Pro Tip: If the flights to Chandigarh are too costly, fly to Delhi and take the overnight bus to Manali. Flying to Delhi may be a lot cheaper than getting to Chandigarh. However, If you notice the difference in air ticket prices between Delhi and Chandigarh is less than Rs 1000, then book for Chandigarh. The rest and shorter travel time are worth the difference.
Trekkers often ask us for hotel recommendations before or after their treks. Finding a good place using online listings can be tedious and tricky. So, through our network of trekkers and trek leaders, we have put together the best hotel recommendations in the major cities near our treks.
These are tried-and-tested recommendations—places we trust for comfort, cleanliness, and convenience. They’re also located near town centers and your pick-up points. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay or something a little more premium, you’ll find an option that suits your needs below.
Given below is a list of all the gear you need for the Miyar Valley trek:
If you don’t have certain items, you can rent high-quality gear like trekking shoes, backpacks, and jackets from the Crosstrek Rental Store by Indiahikes. It costs less than Rs 2000 for the entire trek. We highly recommend renting gear since it is both more affordable and environmentally friendly.
Additionally, you’ll notice a small medical kit in the list. While our trek leaders carry medical kits with 17 medicines including life-saving drugs, you must bring your personal medical kit as well. We are already equipped with BP machines, oximeters and canned oxygen, but your medical kit is for quick access to you, especially while travelling.
Most importantly, you must digitally upload and carry mandatory documents to get government permits for the trek - your ID card and medical certificate. Keep them in a plastic bag to keep them safe in your backpack. There are no printing or photocopy facilities at the basecamp.
1. Trekking Shoes
Miyar Valley requires sturdy trekking shoes, has good grip, has ankle support and can handle snow.
| Buying Tip: The Trek series and MH series are good options by Decathlon. They are tried and tested. There isn’t any necessity to buy the higher-priced models.
| Rental: We have the Trek series and the MH series are available for rent from the Crosstrek Rental store. They are already broken into and in good condition. Rental shoes are not dirty or unhygienic. This is how they are kept clean. Rent here - MH 100.
2. Backpack
For a trek like Miyar Valley, you need a 50-60 litre backpack. Make sure your backpack has good hip support, shoulder support and quick access pockets. Here is a guide on how to choose a backpack.
| Buying Tip: Wildcraft, Decathlon and Adventure Worx usually make good backpacks. While Wildcraft has more expensive ones, the other two brands have budget-friendly backpacks to choose from.
| Rental: The 55-litre backpack is available for rent from the Indiahikes store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks. Rent them if you don’t have a backpack. Rent here.
3. Clothes
Wearing layers is the mantra in the mountains. Layers give you maximum protection from all elements. And when the weather changes in the mountains (as it happens every few hours), you take off or put on layers as required.
Base Layer: 3 T-shirts
Wear one T-shirt and carry two. Carry full sleeve dry-fit T-shirts (preferably collared). These prevent your arms and neck from getting sunburnt. In the rarified air on the trek, especially at high altitudes, UV rays can burn you in no time.
Dry-fit T-shirts quickly dry your sweat, they are easy to wash and in case of a rainy day, they dry quicker. Round neck T-shirts are ok, but collared ones are better.
| Cotton or Synthetic? As Indians, we love cotton. Down in the plains when the heat is blistering 40°C it makes sense to wear cotton. But it takes a long time to dry when it gets wet. In the mountains, where it is cooler, synthetic is what you wear. They wick sweat rapidly and keep you dry. (But they do tend to smell quickly, so carry a roll-on deodorant with you.)
| Buying Tip: You can get dry-fit T-shirts from Decathlon. Also, stores like Reliance Trends and Max have dry-fit T-shirts. They don’t usually cost much.
| Pro Tip: If you are extra susceptible to cold, you could get a set of thermal inners. In our experience, wearing two T-shirts over another works as a better thermal. And they save you weight and space since you’re already carrying them.
5 Insulation Layers in Winter
The Miyar Valley trek is primarily a winter trek. If you’re going any time between December and March, you will need at least 5 warm layers.
You will need 1 pair of inner thermals, 2 light fleece layers, 1 light sweater and 1 padded jacket. Do not get your grandma stitched sweaters, which can be very heavy. You need sweaters and fleece jackets that can fold into compact rolls.
For your outer layer, a padded jacket serves the purpose here. You don’t need a water-resistant material. But you need an outer padded jacket that keeps the wind and cold out. Ensure your padded jacket has a hood as well.
| Do you need a down/feather jacket? Not really. A regular padded/shell jacket will do. This video here will help you to learn more about the difference.
| Note: Down/feather jackets are not available these days. Many jackets masquerade as down/feather jackets. They are essentially fine polyester-filled jackets. They mimic the function of a down jacket but are usually expensive.
| Rental: Padded jackets are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. They are custom-made for Indiahikes and trekkers find them terrific, even in winter. Rent here.
Trek Pants
A minimum of one pair and a maximum of two pairs of trek pants should suffice for this trek. Wear one pair and carry one just in case it rains/snows. Trek pants with zippered cut-offs at the thighs are very suitable for treks. Also, choose quick-dry pants over cotton. They dry up soon even in the cold climate.
| Buying Tip: Go for pants with zippered pockets. They come in handy to keep your phone, handkerchief or pocket snacks.
| Track pants or trek pants? Stretchable track pants make a good backup and can double up as your thermal bottoms. But track pants are not trekking pants — so don’t use them as your main outerwear. Keep them only as a backup.
Mandatory Accessories, without these too you won’t be able to do the trek.
These accessories are mandatory. Don’t go to Miyar Valley without them. Trekkers generally put off purchasing / borrowing the accessories for the last minute. We suggest the opposite. Start gathering these accessories first.
1. Sunglasses
Sunglasses are to prevent snow blindness. On a winter trek like Miyar Valley, expect to walk on long stretches of snow. A small overexposure to direct sunlight on snow can lead to snow blindness (about a half hour’s exposure). That’s because fallen snow is like thousands of mirrors that reflect direct UV rays. So you need sunglasses with UV protection.
| Wearing tip: Wear sunglasses if the trekking day is bright and sunny (on open sections, meadows). On a snowy section, you must never take off your sunglasses until the section has been fully crossed.
| Buying Tip: Try getting sunglasses that wrap around instead of those that have openings on the side. Even peripheral UV ray exposure is not a good idea.
| Rental: The polarised hiking sunglasses are available for rent from the Indiahikes store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks. Rent them if you don’t have a pair of sunglasses. Rent here.
| If you wear spectacles: If you wear spectacles, you can get oversized sunglasses that you wear over your regular glasses (available at Decathlon). If that is cumbersome, photochromic lenses work equally well. Here’s a quick guide on managing sunglasses with spectacles.
| Contact lens users: If you use contact lenses, you can use them on the trek too. The lens solution will not freeze. You will also not face any problems in changing your lens in your tent. Just carry enough cleaning solution with you to clean your fingers well. Wear your sunglasses over your contact lens. Read this article for more guidance on managing contact lenses on treks.
2. Suncap
A sun cap is mandatory. Trekking without a sun cap can lead to headaches, sunstrokes, quick dehydration and a sharp drop in trekking performance.
| Tip: In the mountains, the general rule is to keep your head covered at all times. During the day a sun cap protects you from the harsh rays of the sun (it is doubly stronger with naked UV rays). A sun cap keeps your body temperature in balance. In the evening/early morning, the reverse is true. Your head loses your body heat quickly. A woollen cap prevents heat from dissipating from your head.
| Pro Tip: Sun caps with flaps are a blessing for trekkers. They cut out almost all UV leaks. They prevent sunburns in every possible way. They are a lot more effective than sunscreen lotion. A wide-brimmed sports hat also helps to prevent sunburn in a big way.
3. Synthetic Hand Gloves
On a trek like Miyar Valley, you are going to be handling snow quite a bit. You’ll need gloves to grip something or to steady yourself in snow. You also want the gloves to keep you warm. Get synthetic hand gloves that have waterproofing on the outside and a padded lining on the inside. If you find the combination difficult to get (not likely), wear a tight-fitting fleece hand glove inside a synthetic hand glove. Hand gloves are mandatory on this trek.
| Buying tip: The Crosstrek Waterproof gloves are available at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks. Buy here.
4. Woollen Cap or Balaclava
Ensure these cover your head. In the cold mountains, you lose maximum heat from your head, not from your hands, feet or the rest of your body. This is why you need to keep your head protected, especially when the sun is down. Early mornings, late evenings, and a cold trekking day are when you must use your woollen cap.
Your ears are sensitive too, so a woollen head cap that covers your ears is essential. A balaclava is a modern version of the woollen cap. It covers your ears, neck and parts of your face as well. If you get a woollen cap that only covers your head, you will need a neck warmer or a woollen scarf.
| Buying Tip: The Crosstrek Fleece cap and the Crosstrek neck warmer are available for purchase at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. Buy here - Crosstrek Fleece Cap and Crosstrek Neck Warmer.
5. Socks (4 pairs)
Apart from three to four pairs of sports socks, take a pair of woollen socks. Sports socks give you cushioning plus warmth. Again the mantra is to wear synthetic socks or at least a synthetic blend. Cotton socks soak in water and sweat. They are very hard to dry.
As for woollen socks, they help you to keep warm and snug at the night. If you cannot get woollen socks, wearing two sports socks serves the purpose as well.
| Buying Tip: Waterproof socks are available for purchase at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks. Buy here.
6. Headlamp
Trekkers are often confused about whether they need to get a headlamp or a handheld torch. You need to get a headlamp because it leaves your hands free to do other activities. On the Miyar Valley trek, you’ll need your hands free to wash dishes, pitch tents and hold your trek poles.
| Buying tip: Ensure your headlamp covers a wider area and is not too focused as a single beam. On a trek, your headlamp must help you see around you as much as ahead of you.
| Rental: Headlamps are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
7. Trekking Poles (a pair)
Trekking poles give you stability and balance. They reduce your energy consumption by almost 40%. On the Miyar Valley trek, there are steep ascents and descents. A pair of trekking poles will make the difference between a comfortable and a strenuous trek. In India, we tend to use a single trekking pole. However, two trekking poles give you greater stability and balance. They also increase your walking pace.
| Rental: Imported side-locking trekking poles are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
8. Rainwear
On a trek, the weather can change quickly. A bright sunny day can turn into a downpour in a matter of minutes. Carry a poncho or a rain jacket to tackle this. A poncho is a big rain cover with openings for your arms and your head. It is extremely effective because it covers both you and (partially) your backpack. It is extremely light and weighs next to nothing.
| Pro tip: Rain jackets are more streamlined and less cumbersome but weigh more. Rain pants are not required. Dry fit trek pants dry quickly even if soaking wet.
| Rental: High-grade ponchos are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
9. Rain cover for your backpack
Backpacks are your life. You carry all your dry clothes and your warm gear in your backpack. Your backpack must stay dry at all times. Modern backpacks usually come with built-in rain-covers. If your backpack does not have a rain cover, ensure you get a rain cover by either (a) buying a rain cover or (b) or cutting a large plastic sheet to the size of your backpack. You can roll the plastic sheet around your backpack and keep it in place with a string or elastic.
| Pro tip: It’s good practice to compartmentalise your clothes, accessories and other things in plastic covers inside your backpack. That way, even if it rains and your backpack gets wet, your things are water-proof inside the backpack.
| Rental Tip: Rain covers are available for rent at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
10. Daypack (20-30 ltrs, optional)
In your daypack, you carry essentials like water bottles, rainwear, emergency medicines, a headlamp, some snacks and a warm layer. Your main backpack that carries most of your equipment is accessible only at the campsites.
A daypack is a smaller backpack that is usually of 20-30 litre capacity. Laptop bags are not daypacks. Do not get them.
Other Mandatory Requirements
1. A toilet kit
Keep your toilet kit light. Carry just the basics — toothbrush, toothpaste, small soap, toilet tissue roll, a small moisturiser, lip balm, and a roll-on deodorant. You will not be able to have a bath on the trek, so don’t overload on soaps and shampoos.
| Pro Tip: Carry miniature-sized items. You will not need more than that. If you’re travelling in a group, share one toothpaste for all.
| Pro Tip: Avoid getting large toilet rolls. The smallest size roll is more than enough for a trek like Miyar Valley.
| For Women: If you are likely to have your periods on your trek date, don’t worry about it. You can use your pads, tampons or menstrual cups on the trek. There will be toilet tents where you can get changed. Make sure you carry ziplock bags to bring back your menstrual waste. Don’t leave behind any waste in the mountains. Watch this video to learn how to dispose of your sanitary waste.
2. Cutlery
Carry a lunch box, a coffee mug and a spoon. Your lunch box must be leakproof. You are expected to wash your cutlery. Trekkers often expect Indiahikes to wash their cutlery. When you allow Indiahikes to wash your cutlery, your cutlery becomes part of a mass washing system. You immediately invite germs, and bacteria to settle on your cutlery. The incidence of stomach disorders rises exponentially.
| Pro Tip: Carry stainless steel cutlery. Avoid fancy high-grade plastic cutlery. Stainless steel cutlery is infinitely easier to wash in cold water. Grease is easier to remove and hygiene is at its highest.
| Rental Tip 1: Tiffin boxes can be rented at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
| Buying Tip: The 'Trekker for Life - All purpose mug' is available for purchase at the Crosstrek Merchandise store. Buy here.
| Two 1 litre bottles or a 2-litre hydration pack: Miyar valley has many hours of trekking every day (approximately 6 hours). You need to carry two one-litre water bottles to keep yourself hydrated over the distance. If you are used to a hydration pack, then that is ok too. If one of the two bottles is a lightweight thermos, then that helps you to store warm water on a really cold day or for late evenings and early mornings.
| Rental Tip 2: You could rent lightweight thermos flasks from the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
| Rental Tip 3: Water bottles can be rented at the Crosstrek Rental store. Rent here.
3. Plastic Covers
Carry 3-4 old plastic covers to keep your used clothes. You could use them even for wet clothes. Re-use old plastic bags for this and do not buy new ones.
PRO TIPS
Keep important documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet.
These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.
- Original and photocopy of identity card. In Nepal, only passports or Voter IDs are accepted as valid ID proof.
- 1 passport size photograph. This is required to obtain the trekking permits
- Disclaimer certificate: You don't need to print or carry the disclaimer form. Your Trek Leader will give it to you at the base. Just sign and hand it over then and there. However, if you are a minor unaccompanied by your parents, please download this disclaimer, print it, get it signed by your parents/guardian and carry it to the basecamp. – Download disclaimer certificate
- Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by Indiahikes – Download medical certificate
Note: Indiahikes has a panel of doctors who can help you with a medical certificate. They are available for online consultation. To get in touch with them, please write to trekmedicalcertificates@gmail.com. They will respond to you within 24 hours.
Consultation fee: Rs 300
Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader.
- Diamox (1 Strip): Be on a course of a half tablet of Diamox starting from Delhi every 12 hours (125 mg). Carry on the medication until you descend on the last day. Being on a preventive course of Diamox greatly reduces the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness on the Miyar Valley trek.
- Dexamethasone (1 Strip): This is part of the Live Saving Drugs kit. Do not take this on your own. Your trek leader will inform you in case the need arises.
- Nifedipine (5 tablets): Again part of the Live Saving Drugs kit. Do not take this on your own. Your trek leader will inform you in case the need arises.
- Dolo 650 (5 tablets): This is a paracetamol. It helps to tackle fever, mild pain
- Avomine (4 tablets): Carry this especially if you are prone to motion sickness. Pop one-half hour before the start of your road journey.
- Combiflam (5 tablets): Take a combiflam if you get a sudden twist of the leg or a muscle strain. It is a pain reliever. It also contains paracetamol.
- Digene (4 tablets): Take it if you feel the food that you’ve taken is undigested. Alert your trek leader immediately. It could be a sign of AMS.
- ORS (6 packs): Consume a pack of ORS water at least once a day, usually the mid-day when you are in the middle of your trek. It replenishes essential salts lost while trekking. Tip: It also makes cold water easier to drink.
- Knee Brace (optional): Carry this if you are prone to knee injury or have known issues of knee pain.
Our trek leaders carry a high altitude medical kit with them which also consist of Life Saving Drugs. If there is an emergency our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines listed here.
Pro Tip: We find that these medicines by trekkers are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit.
We recommend walking/jogging/running as the best routine to get fit for any trek. It works on the same muscles you use while trekking—your calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. It also mimics your foot movement so you are better prepared for sudden twists and turns they may go through on uneven terrain.
It helps increase your stamina gradually if done consistently. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.
Fitness Target
To do the Miyar Valley Trek comfortably, you must be able to walk, jog or run 5 km in under 35 minutes. This is the minimum recommended fitness level that you must aim for.
Trekking is a sport that primarily uses your lungs, core, calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. Being fit will help you enjoy the trek and will keep you safe.
To reach any fitness target, there are two things you must work on:
- Cardiovascular endurance
- Muscle strength
If you are not currently active, follow the below schedule to get trek fit in 6 weeks!
A 6-Week Plan to Help You Get Trek-Fit for the Miyar Valley Trek
Pro Tip: Warming up and cooling down before and after your workout is important. Do not miss that.
| Note: If you are not a regular runner, do not start running all of a sudden.
Strength Training Schedule:
Note:
- Alternatives to 30 Standard Pushups = (3 x 20 = 60 knee pushups) = (3 x 45 = 135 wall pushups)
- Alternative to 48 full squats = (4 x 24 = 96 half squats)
- Alternative to jumping lunges = forward lunges (same count)
- If you are not able to complete 1 full set of any plank, divide it into 2 halves and complete it with a rest break in between. For example: If you are not able to complete 1 minute of a standard plank, divide it into 2 sets of 30 seconds each.
- After completing a few weeks of training, if you can progress, you may increase the number of sets or reps for desired results.
Important note: We accept only running, jogging, or walking workout screenshots as fitness proof. Screenshots of cross-training workouts will not be considered valid. We've suggested cross-training options to help keep your fitness journey engaging and fun, allowing you to explore activities you enjoy and avoid inconsistency.
Note: Use apps like Nike and Strava to record your runs.
What happens if you are not fit:
- You do not enjoy the trek
- You struggle to be a part of the team because you’re slow.
- You miss out on a deep, transformative experience that Indiahikes specially designs for you.
The good part is it is not difficult. All you need to do is start following the fitness routine 6 to 8 weeks before your trek begins.
We are here to help you in this fitness journey. Just start slow and as long as you are committed and consistent with your routine, you are in for an unforgettable trek experience.
How to Get Fitness Approval from the Indiahikes Team:
Every trekker needs fitness approval from the Indiahikes team 20 days before the trek date. Without this, you will not be allowed on the trek.
Note: Use apps like Nike and Strava to record your runs.
What to upload?
- A minimum of 3 screenshots of your runs/jogs/walks/cycling
- Monthly summary of your routine
There are overnight buses from Delhi and Chandigarh to Manali. It takes 12 to 14 hours for the bus from Delhi to reach Manali. The journey from Chandigarh is shorter by a couple of hours.
So the best way to get there would be to fly to Chandigarh / Delhi and take a bus to Manali.
Yes, Manali is a safe hill station to be in because it is a popular tourist destination, buzzing with people from various nationalities almost throughout the year. You will find a range of hotels (for all budgets), cafes, and eateries popping up at every turn.
A Himalayan trek like Miyar Valley requires a good fitness level. The trek has long walks daily. As a measure of your fitness, we need you to:
Run at least 5 km in 35 minutes before your trek.
Consistency of your workout also matters, so aim to jog 20 km a week or 80 km in a month. It's a minimum mandatory requirement if you wish to trek with us
Once you get confirmed for your trek, we will diligently follow up on your fitness routine. Our team will also assist in putting you through a fitness plan. It will ultimately help you have a safe trek experience.
Yes you can!
If you are above the age of 58 years, you’ll need to submit a Treadmill Test (not older than 12 months) within a week of completing your trek registration. Apart from this, you should also be able to jog 5 km in 45 minutes.
On the Miyar Valley trek, we usually take around 20- 23 trekkers in total.
The Miyar Valley trek is suitable for anyone above the age of 12 years. However, you need to ensure that your child is physically fit for the trek.
Miyar Valley has a short trekking window of 3 months. You should be booking this trek at least 2-3 months in advance.
Manali and Shukto (in Himachal Pradesh) are the last places where you’ll get a mobile network and internet connection. You won’t find any network on the Miyar Valley Trek.
As per electricity, There is no electricity throughout the trek. The only place you’ll find a plug to charge your phone or camera batteries will be Shukto (in Himachal Pradesh) before and after the trek.
Therefore use your electronic equipment wisely. Fully charge your batteries before leaving your hotel and use your electronic equipment minimally.
Note: the cold temperatures drain the batteries faster. Having extra batteries or power banks helps.
Having more footprint through porters or mules on any trail isn’t good for the ecosystem. This is why, at Indiahikes, we do not encourage offloading. A trekker carries his/her own backpack in the true spirit of trekking.
But if — due to a medical condition — you are unable to carry your own backpack, you may offload your backpack.
The cost of offloading at Miyar Valley is Rs 2,400 for the trek.
Miyar Valley Photo Gallery
Expert Speak
Arjun Majumdar, Founder, CEO
Arjun Majumdar, Founder, CEO
As one of the veterans of the trekking community in India, here's Arjun Majumdar, the founder of Indiahikes, talking about the remotest trek in our country.
What I Like About the Miyar Valley Trek
What I Like About the Miyar Valley Trek
Arjun Majumdar, Founder, CEO
As one of the veterans of the trekking community in India, here's Arjun Majumdar, the founder of Indiahikes, talking about the remotest trek in our country.
1. Lahaul Valley
I must have been 9 when I first witnessed the spectacle of Lahaul. I remember us snaking through the dusty roads sitting in a Jeep. The desert setting had stunned even a 9-year-old like me.
I was there because my father worked for the State Bank of India. He was inspecting remote branches of the bank in Lahaul. Somehow, he fought all ends to take us along with him. He knew the value of these travels.
As a young boy, I was mesmerised. I couldn’t believe barren mountains could have snow-capped summits. I could not imagine that in a land where no trees grow, there can exist a lush oasis teeming with life and colour. That image stayed with me as I grew up.
Later when I started trekking, I longed to see Lahaul once again. Somehow none of our expeditions ventured around Lahaul. It was too far and inaccessible.
Then around 10 years ago, in the early years of our explorations at Indiahikes, we launched the expedition to the Kugti Pass. The trek climbed famously over a 16,000 ft pass to drop down to the heart of Lahaul.
And there I was, the same 9-year-old mesmerized by what I was witnessing. It was as if time had stood still. The snow-dusted brown mountain tops, the valleys, and the oases were the same.
But there was more this time. I noticed the serene Buddhist culture. I noticed the harmony in the villages. I noticed how every village did not scatter beyond an understood perimeter.
And then I saw the colours.
Colours beyond the realms of imagination. I could not imagine brown with green. Or white with purple or yellow with orange. They were startling!
Recently, our teams have been exploring Lahaul. I think we are poised to open one of the greatest treks in Lahaul soon. But deep down, I wish I was part of this exploration. The 9-year-old is still mesmerised.
Wide expanse of Miyar valley. Picture by Jothiranjan.
2. A confluence of rivers and farming villages
The Miyar river confluences with the Chandra Bhaga river near Udaipur village, which along with Trilokinath in Tunde are much-sought-after pilgrimages in the Lahaul and Spiti region. The open valley supports multiple glacier systems that extend from the Miyar glacier onto Kang La Jot which lies at an altitude of 17,939 feet.
The much-revered peaks of Neverseen Tower and Castle Peak are within a 2 km radius of the Miyar Glacier. The Miyar Nala broadens at the end and functions as a support system for the farming villages in this region.
Picture by Jothiranjan
3. Adventurous river crossings
River crossings also set this trek apart. You frequently come across wooden bridges on this trek. Crossing each one is an adventurous experience because you cross the rickety wooden bridge with a furious river roaring beneath you. In two sections, there are no bridges. But the flow of the water can easily be negotiated. Just be prepared for the ice-cold temperature of the water.
Trekkers crossing freezing cold stream originating from Miyar Glacier. Picture by Jothiranjan.
4. Thriving flora and fauna of the region
The natural vegetation mainly involves Juniper trees, Willow trees, Pine trees, Cedars, birch trees, Alder trees, Poplar trees, colourful Orchids, and lupins. The region also attracts a lot of birds post-summer, So you will get to hear them constantly. If you speak to the local shepherds you will hear stories about snow leopards attacking their sheep. Also, the region is full of wildlife, you will find blue sheep near the rocks of Zardong.
Picture by Jothiranjan
5. Rare mountain views
Miyar Valley also offers views of certain rarely-seen mountains. They include the Castle peak, the magnificent Menthosa peak, and also Tharang I, II, III.
Tharang I, II, III. Picture by Jothiranjan.
6. A peek at an ancient travel route
The valley near Tharang goes towards Keylong via Tarsar Lamo pass. In the ancient past, people used to use this route to travel from Udaipur to Keylong via this route. This colourful valley showcases hanging glaciers, snowfields, waterfalls, flat rock faces, fold-type mountains, various orchids, and nameless snow-capped peaks.
Trekker walking towards Palpu. Picture by Jothiranjan.
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