Kalihani Pass Trek

.

Trek Grade

Moderate to Difficult

Highest Altitude

15748 ft

Base Camp

Manali

Best Time

July - Mid Sept

Kalihani Pass Trek

The Kalihani Pass Trek offers breathtaking views of the lush green meadows and is located in the Dhauladhar range of Himachal Pradesh. Trekkers can enjoy the lush meadows covered in alpine flowers, picturesque valleys, remote villages, dense forests, and emerald green meadows on this trek. This hike offers unparalleled views of the Indrasan and Deo Tibba mountains, as well as other peaks of the Pir Panjal range. On this trail, you can observe birds and Himalayan animals such as musk deer, ptarmigan, brown bear and various species of pheasants. The path on this trek is exciting as the hiker has to cross gushing streams, snow-fed glaciers, dangerous moraines and steep slopes. The trail follows the shepherd’s path known as Bara Bhangal, which also connects the two valleys of Kullu and Kangra.

Kalihani Pass 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.

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.

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 Kalihani Pass Trek

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

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Dinner
  • Distance – Manali to Sangchar by Road (30 km), Sangchar to Jammu Paani by Trek (3 km)
  • Time Taken – Manali to Sangchar by Road (approx. 1 hr), Sangchar to Jammu Paani by Trek (approx. 4 hrs)
  • Altitude – Manali (6398 ft / 2050 mtr), Sangchar (7684 ft / 2342 mtr), Jammu Paani (9843 ft / 3000 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – Manali to Sangchar (1286 ft / 292 mtr), Sangchar to Jammu Paani (2159 ft / 658 mtr)
  • Trek Grade – Gradual

The trekkers would begin their journey by road from Manali to Sangchar, and trekking would begin from Sangchar to Jammu Paani. As the trail starts from Sangchar, it will be zigzag, with the Pir Panjal range coming into view. The trekkers would see beautiful, varied-coloured flowers like Anemones and Geranium, along with tall grass, dense bushes, and lush meadows. After walking for a few hours, the trekkers would finally reach Jammu Paani campsite, where they would see oak trees around. They would then spend the night at the camp after a delicious dinner.

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 Paani (9843 ft / 3000 mtr)
  • Trek Grade – Gradual

On the second day of the trek, the trekker would begin today’s hike with a healthy breakfast; the Trekup India team will also prepare them for the trek. Today’s trek will be longer than the previous day, and the trail will pass through Maheli Thatch, which has dense oak trees and green meadows on the side. The route from here on would be uphill first, followed by a downhill climb till they reached the Pani Dhar campsite. The trekkers would sleep well after the tiring day trek at the camp.

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

Begin the day with a hot tea and a beautiful view of the meadows before their eyes. As the trekkers began to walk, they would leave Pani Dhar behind, and the trail would then lead steeply uphill. There would be the Rocky Mountains all around with a gushing stream flowing in the middle, and there would also be lush greenery. The trekker would also start seeing colourful flowers as they approached the Riyali Thatch campsite.

Day 4: Riyali Thatch to Saghor by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 6 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 8 hrs
  • Altitude – Riyali Thatch (11,965 ft / 3647 mtr), Saghor (13,123 ft / 4000 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 1158 ft / 353 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

The trekker would be going on an easy trek for this day; the trail would begin from Riyali Thatch, and they would start a downhill climb. The trekker would first reach a snow bridge over a stream coming from Kalihani Glacier. The trail would then be uphill till the ridge; from beyond the ridge, the trekker would walk through dense green meadows, bushes, and wildflowers dotted against the hill. As the trekker walks ahead, they start seeing juniper trees; after crossing the ridge, the trail would zigzag till they reach the Saghor campsite. This campsite would also be Kalihani Pass basecamp; the trekker would rest for the day and let their body acclimate for the next trek. From the campsite, the trekker could view Indrasan peaks and Deo Tibba.

Day 5: Saghor to Kalihani Pass and then Back to Saghor by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 6 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 10 hrs
  • Altitude – Saghor (13,123 ft / 4000 mtr), Kalihani Pass (15,748 ft / 4800 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 2625 ft / 800 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Moderate to Difficult

This is the primary trek day; when the trekker climbs Kalihani Pass, the trail will be uphill through the snow-led path. After walking for a few hours, they would reach a waterfall, which is the beginning of the steep trail ahead. As the trekker proceeds, they will catch sight of Mount Deo Tibba and Indrasan, along with other peaks of the Pir Panjal range. They would be walking through a snow-filled trail, which makes the climbing a little tricky; soon after crossing the snow path, they would finally reach Kalihani Pass. As the trekkers reach the top, the sight of the Pir Panjal range would enthral them on one side and Bara Bhangal region on the other. Once the trekker has enjoyed the scenic vistas from the top, they begin their downhill walk, passing through glaciers and moraines. Upon reaching Saghor campsite, the trekker would rest for the night after the tiring day trek.

Day 6: Saghor to Rani Sui by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 8 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 8 hrs
  • Altitude – Saghor (13,123 ft / 4000 mtr), Rani Sui (12,200 ft / 3720 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 923 ft / 280 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual to Moderate

The day’s trek would begin with a warm breakfast, and after getting ready, the trekkers would begin the walk downhill towards the snow bridge. From the snow bridge, the trail would be uphill till they reach Riyali campsite; after that, they would begin the trek to Rani Sui Lake. The lake is round-shaped with green meadows, which locals consider very sacred. The picturesque Dhauladhar range would welcome the trekker at the campsite.

Day 7: Rani Sui to Lamadugh by Trek

  • Stay – Overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – 6 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 8 hrs
  • Altitude – Rani Sui (12,200 ft / 3720 mtr), Lamadugh (9900 ft / 3018 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 2300 ft / 702 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual

The trekkers would begin their trek after waking up early and having breakfast. Today, they would be trekking towards Lamadugh and passing through Khanpara Tibba, one of the 4000-meter peaks. From Khanpara Tibba, they would get a magnificent view of the Beas River Valley; the trail towards Khanpara Tibba is uphill. The trail is downhill, a narrow section with Rhododendron trees around. They would walk for a few kilometres until they reached the campsite at Lamadugh, surrounded by dense oak forests.

Day 8: Lamadugh to Manali by Trek

  • Stay – none.
  • Meal – Breakfast
  • Distance – 7 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 5 hrs
  • Altitude – Lamadugh (9900 ft / 3018 mtr), Manali (6398 ft / 2050 mtr)
  • Altitude Difference – 3502 ft / 968 mtr
  • Trek Grade – Gradual

This day is the last of their trek. The trek would begin from Lamadugh, and after a few kilometres walk, they would reach Manali. The trekkers would walk downhill through the pine forest with the view of Manali approaching. The stopping point of the trek would be the Manali Bus stop, where the trekkers would bid them farewell. The trekkers would be free to return home or explore Manali and the places it offers, like Hadimba Devi temple or Mall Road.

Kalihani Pass Trek Route Map

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

Kalihani 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 Kalihani 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 7 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 8 (Meals are simple, nutritious, and vegetarian and non-repeated meals)
  3. Transport: Manali to Sangchar by sharing a jeep.
  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 Kalihani Pass Trek

Kalihani 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.