Animal Pass Trek

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Himachal Pardesh
5N/6D

Trek Grade

Moderate

Highest Altitude

14960 ft

Base Camp

Kasol

Best Time

May, June,July to Mid Oct

Animal Pass Trek

Animal Pass Trek is a beautiful trek in the Parvati Valley, Himachal Pradesh. The trek would be through Tosh village, a convergence of four valleys, making it a perfect destination for beginners and experienced. The trail would lead through the gushing Tosh River, along with vast meadows and grasslands, which makes the climb more thrilling. The magnificent peaks you would see are Deo Tibba, Lalana, Papsura, and Devachan, along with the view of the Tosh Glacier. On this trek, the trekker would see thick pine backwoods along with local Apple orchids, and the local architect that the trekker would see wooden houses. The trail will be accompanied by dense pine forest and rhododendron bushes, which give way to mixed high altitudes.

The majestic Animal Pass Trek, nestled in the picturesque Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, offers a unique monsoon trekking experience. Starting from the charming village of Tosh, the journey follows the glistening Tosh River, winding through lush meadows and grasslands. As you ascend, the scenery transforms into a breathtaking climb to the Animal Pass, presenting awe-inspiring views of the Tosh glacier and the towering Kullu Makalu Peak. 

This moderate-level trek, recommended for experienced trekkers, unfolds during the monsoon months of June to September, when the landscape is most vibrant. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Animal Pass Trek offers a serene and untouched experience away from the crowds. The optimal time to embark on this unforgettable journey is June and September.

Animal Pass Trek Videos

Videos by experts watch these videos to prepare well for a Successful Trek

why trekup india

Want To Trek Like Pro?

Check out the following videos if you want to trek like a pro trekker and improve your skills. These videos contain helpful tips, tricks, and techniques to help you trek like a pro. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, these videos can provide valuable insights to enhance your trekking experience. So, watch the videos below by Trekup India experts to take your trekking skills to the next level.

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Animal Pass Trek
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Animal Pass Trek

Know Everything About Acute Mountain Sickness

Acute Mountain Sickness is a medical condition that can occur when individuals travel to high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet. It is caused by the decrease in air pressure and oxygen levels in the air as altitude increases. Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness may include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness, it is important to gradually adjust to high altitudes and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. To learn more about this condition, check out the videos by Trekup India.

Acute Mountain Sickness, Symptoms P
Acute Mountain Sickness
Precaution For Acute Mountain Sickness

Important
Guidelines

Government employees joining our trekking expeditions can avail of Special Casual Leave (SCL) under the following conditions:

  1. Eligibility Criteria:
    • SCL is available exclusively to Indian government employees.
    • Applicable only for treks conducted within India.
  2. Leave Details:
    • As per Pay Commission rules, government employees are entitled to up to 30 days of SCL in a calendar year for trekking or mountaineering expeditions.
    • Treks must be organized by a registered organization, such as Trekup India, recognized by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF).
  3. Application Process:
    • You need to apply for leave at least 20 days before the trek departure date.
    • How to Apply: The following details are required to apply for IMF certification through the IMF.
      • Email info@trekupindia.com with the following details:
        • Your booked trek date.
        • The trek name.
        • Aadhar Card
        • Designation
        • Office Address
        • Additional Fee of Rs. 250/ per person will be applicable.
        • Note: It might take 20-25 days to receive a certificate from the IMF, subject to their approval.
  4. Documentation Support:
    • Trekup India will provide the necessary documents to facilitate your SCL application.
  • A parent or guardian must accompany trekkers below 15 years of age.
  • Trekkers Aged 15 to 18 or above Years: Can trek solo but require a Disclaimer Form signed by a parent or guardian. And Medical Form that Provides health details and confirms fitness for trekking by MBBS Doctor
  • Trekkers Aged above 18 Years: Require a Disclaimer Form self-signed. And Medical Form that Provides health details and confirms fitness for trekking, Signed with an MBBS Doctor stamp.

If you’re planning a trek, you must ensure that your health parameters meet the fitness requirements for physical exertion at high altitudes or rugged terrains. Below are guidelines for each of the parameters mentioned:

1. Pulse Rate (Heart Rate at Rest):

  • Normal: 60 to 100 (bpm) beats per minute.
  • Required Fitness: Physically fit person may have a resting heart rate closer to 50 bpm, which shows that he have good cardiovascular efficiency.

2. Blood Pressure (BP):

  • Required BP: 120/80 mmHg. A Bolood Pressure within this Range ensures adequate oxygen delivery to muscles and organs during physical exertion, especially at high altitudes.
  • Your specified blood pressure (BP) Range—Systolic: 100–140 mmHg and Diastolic: 70–90 mmHg—is appropriate and generally considered safe for trekking activities.
  • Acceptable Range: <140/90 mmHg for trekking. Elevated BP could increase risks during strenuous activity or at high altitudes.

 

Recommendations:

  • Pre-Trek Checkup: Monitor your BP multiple times & ensure that it should be normal.
  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration affect BP, so maintain proper fluid intake during your trek.
  • Avoid Alcohol & Excess Salt: These can destabilize BP, especially at altitude.
  • BP Monitor: If you have a history of BP issues, regularly check your BP during the trek. Our Trek Leaders are equipped with a BP machine.
 

3. Respiratory Rate at Rest:

  • Required Rate: 12–20 breaths per minute.
 

4. Diabetes Mellitus:

  • Acceptable: Well-controlled blood sugar levels (HbA1c <7% or fasting blood glucose <126 mg/dL).
  • Fitness Requirement: Carry quick glucose sources and monitor regularly during the trek.
 

5. Bronchial Asthma:

  • Acceptable: Only when your doctors allow it & you have to submit an MBBS doctor NOC that you can undergo this trek.
  • Fitness Requirement: Bring prescribed inhalers/medications and consult your doctor about high-altitude risks.
 

6. Heart Problems:

  • Acceptable: Individuals without recent cardiac events (e.g., heart attack within the past 2 years).
  • Fitness Requirement: Clearance from an MBBS Doctor (cardiologist) is required.
 

7. Hypertension:

  • Acceptable: Controlled hypertension (BP <140/90 mmHg) with no recent complications like hypertensive crisis.
 

8. Pacemaker Implant:

  • Generally not recommended for high-altitude treks.
 

9. Body Mass Index (BMI):

  • Required BMI: 18 – 26 kg/m² for a good trekking fitness.
  • Overweight or underweight individuals may face additional strain on joints or fatigue.
 

Additional Recommendations:

  • High Altitude Acclimatization: For treks above 10,000 feet, ensure have some acclimatization Trekup India have designed Itinary of this trek accordingly to it but its not granted that this itinary works fine with acclimatization. For more information, click here.
  • Fitness Level: Regular aerobic and strength training exercises before the trek are essential. For more information, click here.
  • Medical Clearance: Consult a healthcare professional (MBBS Doctor) to assess your suitability before coming on this trek.

Would you like assistance preparing for your trek or calculating specific health metrics? Call Your Trek Co-Ordinator

Day Wise Detailed Itinerary of Animal Pass Trek

Day 1: Kasol to Tosh by Road, Tosh to Buddhaban by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Dinner
  • Time Taken – Kasol to Tosh by Road (approx. 1 hr), Tosh to Buddhaban by Trek (approx. 5 hrs)
  • Altitude – Kasol (5180 ft / 1580 meter), Tosh (7900 ft / 2400 meter), Buddhaban (9900 ft / 3020 meter)
  • Altitude Difference – Kasol to Tosh (2720 ft / 820 meters), Tosh to Buddhaban (2000 ft / 620 meters)
  • Trek Grade – Gradual

This day marks the first day of their journey and the beginning of the trek; the journey would begin by road and then by trek. Once the trekker arrives at Kasol, they would meet up with the Trekup India Representative, who would drive them to Tosh, just 1-hour drive. After reaching Tosh, the trekker would begin the trek, which would lead through dense pine and oak forests, which are just by the gushing river Tosh. Within a few hours, the trekker would start seeing giant meadows, which means they are close to the campsite Buddhaban.

Day 2: Buddhaban to Sharam Thach by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Time Taken – approx. 6 hrs
  • Altitude – Buddhaban (9900 ft / 3020 meters), Sharam Thach (11,500 ft / 3505 meters)
  • Altitude Difference – 1600 ft / 485 meter
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

The trekkers would begin their day with a warm breakfast and basic stretching exercises, as per the Trekup India team leader. They would be walking on the trail, which is alongside the Tosh River, and after a few hours, the trail would be uphill. As the trekker reaches the top, they would see tree lines, with vast spreading meadows along with rhododendrons and juniper trees on the side. When the trekker sees a waterfall, they are close to Sharam Thatch’s campsite.

Day 3: Sharam Thach to Shamshi Thach by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Time Taken – approx. 5 hrs
  • Altitude – Sharam Thach (11,500 ft / 3505 meters), Shamshi Thach (12,470 ft / 3800 meters)
  • Altitude Difference – 970 ft / 292 meter
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

Today’s trek might appear to be more difficult than the previous day, but the views will be picturesque as they will get to cross the patch of snow. With the roaring sound of the river Tosh, the trekkers would be walking downhill towards the campsite of Shamshi Thatch. As the trekkers come close to the camp, they will see Tosh Glacier along with Kullu Makalu Peak. Once the trekkers reach the campsite, they will be retiring for the day after the day’s excursions.

Day 4: Shamshi Thach to Animal Pass and Back to Shamshi Thach by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Time Taken – approx. 8 hrs
  • Altitude – Shamshi Thach (12,470 ft / 3800 meters), Animal Pass (14,960 ft / 4560 meters)
  • Altitude Difference – 2490 ft / 760 meter
  • Trek Grade – Moderate to Difficult

This day marks the primary trek day when the trekkers will climb to the top of Animal Pass. As the trekkers begin today, they will climb uphill through an uneven and rough gradient trail. After reaching the top, the trekker would catch stunning views of the Devachan, Papsura, and Dharamsura peaks and the Deo Tibba range. Once the trekker had enjoyed the view, the trekker would return to Shamshi Thach campsite. They would be welcomed by a delicious dinner prepared by Trekup India’s high-altitude chief.

Day 5: Shamshi Thatch to Buddhaban by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Time Taken – approx.6 hrs
  • Altitude – Shamshi Thach (12,470 ft / 3800 meters), Buddhaban (9900 ft / 3020 meters)
  • Altitude Difference – 2570 ft / 780 meter
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

Today, the trekkers would be following the same route from which they came, and they would begin the morning with hot tea in hand. The trail from Shamshi Thatch towards Buddhaban campsite and the trekkers would be walking downhill. The trekkers would come close to the Tosh River again and enjoy the same scenic vistas as green meadows, rhododendrons, and juniper trees. After walking for a few hours, they would soon reach Buddhaban campsite, where they would be taking a rest and sleeping for the night.

Day 6: Buddhaban to Tosh Village by Trek, Tosh Village to Kasol by Road

  • Meal – Breakfast
  • Time Taken – Buddhaban to Tosh Village by Trek (approx. 4 hrs), Tosh Village to Kasol by Road (approx. 1 hr)
  • Altitude – Buddhaban (9900 ft / 3020 meters), Tosh Village (7900 ft / 2400 meter), Kasol (5180 ft / 1580 meters)
  • Altitude Difference – Buddhaban to Tosh Village (2000 ft / 620 meters), Tosh Village to Kasol (2720 ft / 820 meters)
  • Trek Grade – Gradual

This day marks the last day of their journey and trek, and the trekker would wake up early in the morning and begin the short trek towards Tosh Village. After descending to Tosh Village, the trekkers would have an option: they could explore nearby places, or they could get on the vehicle provided by Trekup India, which will drop them off at Kasol. Once the trekkers reached Kasol, the team would bid them farewell, and they would be on their own to travel around or return to their homes.

Animal Pass Trek Route Map

We’ve prepared a comprehensive Trek Route Map for your upcoming adventure to Animal Pass Trek, which outlines the entire journey including all stops and trails. This map provides detailed information on the terrain, distance between points of interest, and estimated travel time to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. We’ve carefully curated the map to ensure that you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Please take a moment to review it thoroughly, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Animal Pass Trek Altitude Chart

The Trek Altitude Chart is a useful tool for Trekkers to monitor their altitude changes during their rides, allowing them to plan their routes more efficiently and track their progress over time. This Animal Pass Trek chart is beneficial for both casual and experienced Trekkers, helping them make the most out of their Trek experience.

Trek Cost Inclusions

  1. Stay 5 Nights of tented accommodation at respective campsites of Trekup India on a sharing basis.
  2. Meals: Trekup India provided cooked meals during the trek, starting with Dinner on Day 01 to Breakfast on day 6(Meals are simple, nutritious, and vegetarian and non-repeated meals)
  3. Transport: Kasol to Tosh Village, Tosh Village to Kasol on sharing vehicle  
  4. Trek Insurance (Optional): Trekup India recommends that all trekkers consider getting trek insurance. This is optional, but highly recommended. Trek insurance covers unexpected events that may occur during your trek. The cost of the insurance starts from INR 210. Please read more about what is included in the coverage and why it is mandatory on treks.
  5. Trek Equipment:  Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.
  6. Amenities: All utensils, sleeping mattresses (Black foam mats), Crampons, and Gaiters for snow.    
  7. Health & Safety:  First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.
  8. Permits: Forest Permits and Camping Permission Fee 
  9. Trek Crew: High Altitude Chef, Helpers, Trek Leader & Guides, and other support teams.
  10. Potters & Mules: Potters and Mules are to carry all trekking equipment, ration, and vegetables.

Trek Cost Exclusions

  1. GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
  2. Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
  3. Any Bus / Airfare to/from trek start/end point 
  4. Personal Medical expenses do carry your medication. 
  5. Any personal services such as Laundry, phone calls, liquors, mineral water, etc.
  6. Any still / video camera fee 
  7. Any Entrance fee Monuments, Monasteries, Museums, Temples – Pay directly on the spot. 
  8. Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage (Offload Charges for bag 365 per day, per bag if paid online (at base camp 2,550). Note: Bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.
  9. Any emergency evacuation charges
  10. Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.

What should you pack for the Animal Pass Trek

Animal Pass Trek is a high-altitude trek. The trekking gear you have to have for this particular trek differs from normal treks. Thus, read this whole segment. There is an important question that the trekker who is doing trek asks, like what all things to carry while trekking. Below, we have provided the details on everything you should take; an easy way to remember is by Head to foot or foot to head. We have prepared from Head to foot.

Things to Carry, pack for trek

Head Gears

When trekking it's important to carry headgear to protect your head and face.

Heading out for a trek? Don’t forget to carry headgear to protect your beautiful face and head from the sun, wind, and dust! It’s an essential accessory that keeps you safe and comfortable throughout your adventurous journey. So, make sure you pack it before you step out into nature!

  1. Head Lamps – When trekking at night, headlamps are essential to illuminate your path while keeping your hands free. Headlamps come in different sizes and lumens, so it is essential to choose one that suits your needs.
  2. Hats or Cap – Caps or hats are also necessary when trekking in different weather conditions. Caps protect your head from the wind and freezing temperatures at night, while hats provide shade and protection from the sun during the day. It’s essential to ensure that your hat has a strap to prevent it from being blown away by the wind.
  3. Sunglasses – Sunglasses are also essential for trekking. Your sunglasses should protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and fit your face perfectly to avoid falling off while climbing, jumping, or crossing obstacles. The glass of your sunglasses should also be designed for different weather conditions to provide optimal visibility.
  4. Buff / Balaclava – Lastly, a buff or balaclava is a must-have to protect your mouth or neck from extreme temperatures and keep them warm. Buffs and balaclavas come in different materials, thicknesses, and designs, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs and preferences. Depending on the weather conditions and your activities, you can wear them as neck warmers, face masks, or headbands.
With these essential items, you can enjoy trekking safely and comfortably, no matter the weather or time of day.

Clothes

When trekking in high altitudes, prepare for cold weather by wearing layers. Layering traps heat, keeps you warm, and allows you to easily adjust your clothing as temperatures fluctuate.

Layering is important for different seasons when trekking. When planning a high-altitude trek, it is important to prepare for the cold weather. Wearing layers is the best approach as it provides both protection and flexibility when the weather changes frequently in the mountains. Layering helps to trap heat and keep your body warm, while at the same time allowing you to easily adjust your clothing as the temperature fluctuates. By wearing layers, you can enjoy your trek comfortably and stay safe in the unpredictable mountain weather

  1. For spring, summer, and monsoon treks, consider wearing three layers: a woollen sweater, a fleece, and a padded jacket.
  2. For autumn treks, add one more fleece layer to make it four layers.
  3. For winter treks, you may need five layers with thermals, a woollen sweater, two fleeces, and a padded jacket.
  4. T-shirt/sleeve shirt– Bring three T-shirts and two quick-dry trek pants, wearing one and carrying the others. Long sleeve shirts help to protect from sun UV rays. We recommend synthetic T-shirts as they get dry quickly when they get wet.
  5. Hiking / Trekking Jacket– down jackets (-5 to-10 C) or two-three-layer jackets.
  6. Thermals– at least two pairs of thermals help keep the body warm during cold weather.
  7. Undergarments– you can carry them according to your habitual and hygiene requirements.
  8. Gloves– 1 pair of gloves will keep your hand warm and nice.
  9. Trek Pants– Bring 2 to 3 comfortable trekking pants. Trekking pants play a significant role, as they are designed for comfort and mobility, making trekking easier. It should be Synthetic so that it gets dry quickly when wet.
  10. Rain Wear– you can carry a raincoat or Poncho. During long rains and snowfalls, the waterproof jackets start leaking. Still, the Poncho and raincoats keep you dry, so choose accordingly.

Tip: If you choose a raincoat on your trek, carry a small waterproof cover so things inside your backpack can’t get wet. If you carry a Poncho, you don’t need to worry. It protects both you and your backpack.