Day 1: Arrival & Drive from Shimla to Kafnu (Base Camp)
Scenic drive of about 200 km from Shimla to the village of Kafnu (2,450m/8,000 ft) in Kinnaur. The journey offers views of the Sutlej River and the Bhaba Valley. On the way, you can spot India’s first underground hydroelectric project near Wangtoo. Check into a guesthouse or homestay in Kafnu for overnight .
Day 2: Trek from Kafnu to Mulling (3,200m/10,700 ft)
The trek begins, ascending alongside the Bhaba River. The 11 km trail starts on a service road before entering enchanting forests of silver birch, pine, and oak. Cross a bridge over the river and climb steadily to Jhandi Top for your first mountain views. Descend to the picturesque riverside campsite at Mulling, often cited as one of the most beautiful campsites .
Day 3: Trek from Mulling to Kara/Karah (3,550m/11,700 ft)
A shorter but adventurous day of 6-7 km. The trail winds through meadows and past waterfalls, with several river crossings. You might encounter a subterranean river flowing beneath the rocks. The campsite at Kara is set beside a small, serene lake, offering reflections of the surrounding peaks .
Day 4: Trek from Kara to Phustirang/Pushtirang (4,100m/13,450 ft)
A steep day with significant altitude gain. The 4-5 km trail involves multiple cold glacial stream crossings. The unique, delta-like campsite at Phustirang is surrounded by mineral-rich meadows crisscrossed by small streams and offers stunning sunset views. This camp serves as the base for the pass crossing .
Day 5: Trek from Phustirang to Mangrungse/Baldar via Bhaba Pass (4,890m)
The most challenging and rewarding day. A pre-dawn start is required for the steep 3.5-4 km climb to Bhaba Pass at 4,890m. From the pass, adorned with prayer flags, witness the breathtaking contrast between the green Bhaba Valley and the cold desert of Spiti. The long descent into the Pin Valley (10-13 km total) is steep and over scree. Camp at Mangrungse or Baldar .
Day 6: Trek from Mangrungse/Baldar to Mudh Village (3,800m/12,500 ft)
The final trekking day involves a 8-10 km descent following the Pin River downstream through the dramatic, barren landscape of Pin Valley. Spot wildlife like blue sheep and marmots. Arrive at the traditional village of Mudh in Spiti, marked by chortens and prayer flags. This marks the official end of the trek on foot .
Day 7: Drive from Mudh/Kaza to Manali
Explore Mudh village before driving to Kaza, the capital of Spiti. From Kaza, embark on a long but spectacular 10-12 hour drive to Manali via the high-altitude Kunzum La pass, completing your journey across the Himalayas .
Day 8: Departure from Manali (or Contingency Day)
Trip concludes in Manali. Many operators include a buffer/contingency day (Day 8) in the itinerary to account for possible weather delays during the critical pass crossing
