Bara Bhangal Trek

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Himachal Pardesh
8N/9D

Trek Grade

Moderate

Highest Altitude

15994 ft

Base Camp

Jammu Pani

Best Time

May, June, Sept to mid-oct

Bara Bhangal Trek

Bara Bhangal is an isolated village on the route that lies between Kullu Valley and Dharamshala in the Western Himalayan region—Bara Bhangal trail, which is in the Dhauladhar range and connects Kullu and Kangra valleys. The trek is challenging, so it must be attempted by experienced trekkers. The trek is filled with picturesque Himalayan landscapes involving green meadows, beautiful wildflowers near campsites, gushing streams, rapids, glaciers, and moraines. On this trek, the trekker would be catching sight of Pir Panjal along with the Dhauladhar range. Bara Bhangal Trek is also known by another name, which is Shepherd’s Trek. This trek is for adventure seekers who want to experience the thrill and nature, as it offers Bara Shingri and Indrasan glaciers.

Bara Bhangal Trek Videos

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

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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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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.

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Day Wise Detailed Itinerary of Bara Bhangal Trek

Day 1: Manali to Sangchar by Road, Sangchar to Jammu Pani by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Dinner
  • Distance – Manali to Sangchar by Road (30 km), Sangchar to Jammu Pani by Trek (3 km)
  • Time Taken – Manali to Sangchar by Road (approx. 1 hr), Sangchar to Jammu Pani by Trek (approx. 4 hrs)
  • Altitude – Manali (6730 ft / 2050 mtr), Sangchar (7690 ft / 2340 mtr), Jammu Pani (9840 ft / 3000 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – Manali to Sangchar (960 ft / 290 mtr), Sangchar to Jammu Pani (2150 ft / 660 mtr)
  • Trek Grade – Gradual

The trekkers would begin their journey with a short drive followed by trekking. The short drive would be through the scenic mountains of Himachal Pradesh. Once they have reached the village of Sangchar, the trekker would then begin the trek, which would first be through the zig-zag trail. As we walk ahead, you start seeing the peaks of the Pir Panjal range, and the trek is relatively easy. On the trail ahead, the trekker would be spellbound by colorful flowers like Anemones and Geraniums, followed by tall green grasses and dense bushes. This also indicates that they are close to the Jammu Pani campsite and would start seeing oak trees on one side and thick bushes on the other. After the day’s trek, the trekkers would sleep at night in tents.

Day 2: Jammu Paani to Pani Dhar by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 5 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 6 hrs
  • Altitude – Jammu Pani (9840 ft / 3000 mtr)
  • Trek Grade – Gradual

On the second day of the trek, the trekker would begin with a warm breakfast. In the morning, the Trekup India team will prepare them with basic exercises for the trek ahead. Today, the trekker would walk a little more distance than the previous day, and the trail would lead through Meaheli Thatch, surrounded by dense oak trees and lush green meadows. The trail would begin with an uphill climb first, and then later, it would be downhill. Once they reach the Pani Dhar campsite, after the tiring trek, the trekkers would sleep early.

Day 3: Pani Dhar to Riyali Thatch by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 4 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 4 hrs
  • Altitude – Riyali Thatch (11,965 ft / 3647 mtr)
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

The trekkers would begin the day with hot tea and the vast grasslands spreading across. The trekkers would climb uphill, leaving Pani Dhar behind; they would start seeing the Rocky Mountains with a roaring river flowing below and lush green meadows around. As the trekkers close to Riyali Thatch, they would start seeing vibrant flowers. The trekkers could rest or explore the nearby area before sleeping.

Day 4: Riyali Thatch to Saghor (also known as Kalihani Pass Base) by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Distance – 9 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 11 hrs
  • Altitude – Riyali Thatch (11,965 ft / 3647 mtr), Saghor (13,123 ft / 4000 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference –1158 ft / 353 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Moderate to Difficult

Today’s trek will be difficult, as the trekker begins the trek from Riyali Thatch, and it will be a downhill climb. As the trekkers walk ahead, they first reach the snow bridge over a stream from Kalihani Glacier. From the snow bridge onwards, the trail would be uphill till they reach the ridge, and the trekkers would start seeing dense green grasslands, which will be followed by bushes and varied colored flowers that are dotted against the hill. Further on the trail, the trekker would start seeing juniper trees, which lie below the ridge, and from there, the trail becomes zig-zag. Soon, the trekker would reach Saghor campsite, also Kalihani Pass basecamp. After a tiring day, the trekker would sleep at night with majestic views of Indrasan peaks and Deo Tibba.

Day 5: Saghor (Kalihani Pass Base) to Devi Ki Marhi via Kalihani Pass by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
  • Distance – 7 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 8 hrs
  • Altitude – Saghor (13,123 ft / 4000 mtr), Kalihani Pass (15,748 ft / 4800 mtr), Devi Ki Marhi (12,630 ft / 3850 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – Saghor to Kalihani Pass (2625 ft / 800 mtr), Kalihani Pass to Devi Ki Marhi (3118 ft / 950 mtr)
  • Trek Grade – Moderate to Difficult

The trail would be followed by a snow-covered trail through the moraine, and it would be an uphill climb through scree. After walking for a few hours, the trekker would reach a waterfall, which marks a steep uphill climb. On the trail ahead, the trekker would start seeing Mount Deo Tibba and Indrasan, along with other peaks of the Pir Panjal range. Climbing through the snow makes it difficult before finally reaching Kalihani Pass. As the trekker reaches Kalihani Pass, they will start seeing the Bara Bhangal region and Pir Panjal range. The trail would come across glaciers and four alpine lakes; the trekker would then walk along the Kalihani nallah on the moraine field before they reach Devi Ki Marhi campsite.

Day 6: Devi Ki Marhi to Dal Marhi by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
  • Distance – 5 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 6 hrs
  • Altitude – Devi Ki Marhi (12,630 ft / 3850 mtr), Dal Marhi (12,795 ft / 3900 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 165 ft / 50 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

On the trek today, the trekker will walk across Kalihani Nullah, and from Kalihani Nullah, the trek will be downhill. On the trail ahead, the trekker will catch sight of oak and birch forests; the trail will be plain with some up and downhill climbs. As the trekker walks on the trail, they pass through a few streams, which later join the main Kalihani Nala. There is a steep uphill climb before the trekker reaches the Dal Marhi campsite.

Day 7: Dal Marhi to Bara Bhangal by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
  • Distance – 5 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 6 hrs
  • Altitude – Dal Marhi (12,795 ft / 3900 mtr), Bara Bhangal (9514 ft / 2900 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 3281 ft / 1000 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

Today, the trekker would be reaching the place for which they came on this trek; the trail would begin with a short uphill climb. After that, the trek trekker would climb down the trail along the Ravi River. As the trekkers walk on the trail, they will come across a tree line of rhododendrons, birch, and pine forests. Bara Bhangal is a beautiful remote village where the trekker can see the fields of corn, rajma, and cannabis. As they reach the Bara Bhangal campsite, the trekker will be welcomed by a warm and delicious dinner.

Day 8: Bara Bhangal to Mardh by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
  • Distance – 5 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 5 hrs
  • Altitude – Bara Bhangal (9514 ft / 2900 mtr), March (12,566 ft / 3830 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 3052 ft / 930 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

The trekkers would begin the morning with warm tea and a picturesque view in front of their eyes. As the trekkers begin the trek, they would first reach the next big pass, Thamsar. On the trail ahead, the trekker would be met by pine, deodar, and birch forests, along with a few streams on the way. After walking a little while, the trekker soon reached Mardh campsite near Thamsar glacier.

Day 9: Mardh to Plachak via Thamsar Pass, Plachak to Bir Billing by Trek, Bir Billing to Dharamshala by Road

  • Stay – None
  • Meal – Breakfast
  • Distance – Mardh to Bir Billing by Trek (8 km), Bir Billing to Dharamshala by Road (64 km)
  • Time Taken – Mardh to Bir Billing by Trek (approx. 8 hrs), Bir Billing to Dharamshala by Road (approx. 2 hrs)
  • Altitude – Mardh (12,566 ft / 3830 mtr), Thamsar Pass (15,994 ft / 4875 mtr), Plachak (8927 ft / 2721 mtr), Bir Billing (7874 ft / 2400 mtr), Dharamshala (4780 ft / 1457 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – Mardh to Thamsar Pass (3428 ft / 1045 mtr), Thamsar Pass to Plachak (7067 ft / 2154 mtr), Plachak to Bir Billing (1053 ft / 321 mtr), Bir Billing to Dharamshala (3094 ft / 943 mtr)
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

This day marks the last day of their journey and trek; the trekker would walk steeply uphill through the moraine, scree, and glacier. As the trekker begins, they see a small lake below; the next thing they see is the lush Kangra valley. Soon, the trail would be downhill till they reached the Plachak campsite, and they would be seeing the tree line. Beyond the campsite, the trail would be flat and easy, through the pine forest with various mountains and streams. The valley widens, offering stunning views of the Kangra Valley; the trekker would finally reach Bir Billing. Bir Billing would be the last trekking stop, and from there, the trekkers would be driving towards Dharamshala, the dropping point. From there on, the trekkers would be on their own to either proceed to their homes or explore nearby places.

Day 10: Buffer Day

Due to unavoidable circumstances, this day is added if the trekker cannot cross the pass or proceed on any other day. This could be because of bad weather conditions or government restrictions; the trekker must pay an additional Rs 4500 + GST.

Bara Bhangal Trek Route Map

We’ve prepared a comprehensive Trek Route Map for your upcoming adventure to Bara Bhangal 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.

Bara Bhangal 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 Bara Bhangal 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: 8 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 10 (Meals are simple, nutritious, and vegetarian and non-repeated meals)
  3. Transport: Manali to Sangchar and Bir Billing to Dharamshala 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 Bara Bhangal Trek

Bara Bhangal 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.

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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.

Foot Gears

When it comes to planning a trek, one of the most important aspects is to ensure that you have the right kind of foot gear.

  1. Trekking shoes which are waterproof and have ankle support. Walking / Hiking sandals which can be used off the trek, i.e., in the morning and evening hours when you reach the campsite, basically to get your feet rest from heavy boots, sometimes used for crossing streams and rivers, it’s more comfortable and safer than crossing barefoot or wetting your shoes. Sneakers (Optional) can be worn for normal driving days or used around the camp.
  2. Socks– you should at least carry 3 to 4 pairs.
  3. Microspikes & Gaitorswill be provided by Trekup India when required. You don’t have to carry them.