Minkiani Pass Trek is among the very less explored treks in Himachal Pradesh. The pass lies 7 kms from Kareri lake and is a perfect blend of scenery and adventure in Dhauladhar mountain range.
Very good
- 1k reviews
Chamba Trek Over Minkiani Pass is a challenging and rewarding trek that takes you from Mcleodganj in Kangra valley to Chamba valley in Himachal Pradesh. The trek crosses the Minkiani Pass, which is a mountain pass in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas, at an altitude of 4,250 meters. The trek offers stunning views of the Pir Panjal and Mani Mahesh ranges, as well as the plains of Punjab and Haryana. The trek also passes through dense forests, meadows, glaciers, caves, and villages, where you can experience the culture and hospitality of the local people.
The trek is about 35 km long and takes about 5 to 6 days to complete. The trek starts from Dharamkot, a village near Mcleodganj, and passes through Triund, Laka Got, Lahesh Cave, Minkiani Pass, Chata Parao, Kuarsi, and Bharmour. The trek can be done from March to December, but the best time is from June to October, when the weather is favorable and clear. The trek requires good physical fitness and stamina, as well as proper acclimatization and guidance.
The Minkiani Pass Trek in India is a thrilling and picturesque adventure that takes you through stunning landscapes, remote mountain villages, and high-altitude passes. Nestled in the enchanting state of Himachal Pradesh, this trek offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Indian Himalayas and experience the true essence of adventure.
Mcleodganj to Kareri village (1870 m, 13 km). Trek through mixed forests of oak, rhododendron and deodar trees to reach Kareri village, a small settlement near a stream.
Camp overnight at Kareri village
Kareri village to Kareri lake (2950 m, 14 km). Trek further up to Kareri lake, a high-altitude glacial lake surrounded by green meadows and snow-capped peaks. The lake is a popular attraction for trekkers and pilgrims.
Camp overnight at Kareri lake
Kareri lake to Minkiani pass (4250 m, 5 km) to Minkiani got (3500 m, 4 km). Trek to the Minkiani pass, a mountain pass in the Dhauladhar range that offers stunning views of the Pir Panjal and Mani Mahesh ranges. Descend to Minkiani got, a camping ground near a small glacier.
Camp overnight at Minkiani got
Minkiani got to Drakund (2280 m, 13 km). Trek downhill through dense forests of pine trees and cross several streams and villages. Reach Drakund, a village with apple orchards and a waterfall.
Camp overnight at Drakund
Drakund to Dunali (2190 m, 7 km) to Chamba (80 km, 3-4 hours). Trek to Dunali, a road head where the trek ends. Take a taxi or a bus to Chamba, a town in Chamba district. Explore the town and its attractions, such as ancient temples, museums, and markets.
End
Trekking in Himachal Pradesh is generally safe, as long as you follow some basic precautions and guidelines. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience in Himachal Pradesh:
Choose a trek that suits your fitness level, experience, and interests. There are many treks in Himachal Pradesh, ranging from easy to difficult, short to long, and scenic to adventurous.
Hire a local guide or join a reputable trekking company, especially if you are a beginner or planning to do a multi-day or high-altitude trek. A guide can help you with navigation, safety, logistics, and cultural insights. You can also meet other trekkers and share the costs and experiences.
Prepare well for the trek by packing the essential gear, clothing, food, water, and medicines. You should also check the weather forecast, trail conditions, and permits before you start the trek.
Follow the trekking etiquette and respect the local culture, environment, and wildlife. You should also avoid littering, smoking, drinking, or playing loud music on the trek.
There are different ways to reach Chamba trek over Minkiani pass, depending on your preferred mode of transport. Here are some options:
By flight: The nearest airport to Chamba trek over Minkiani pass is Kangra Airport in Gaggal, which is about 67.6 km away from Mcleodganj. However, this airport has limited flight connectivity, so you may have to book a flight to Chandigarh, Amritsar, or New Delhi and then take a bus or a taxi to Mcleodganj.
By train: The nearest railway station to Chamba trek over Minkiani pass is Pathankot, which is about 142 km away from Mcleodganj. You can take a train from major cities like Delhi or Chandigarh to Pathankot, and then take a taxi or a bus to Mcleodganj. You can also take a toy train from Pathankot to Ahju, which is only 3 km away from Mcleodganj, but it is on a narrow-gauge line.
By road: You can also take a direct bus from major cities like Delhi or Chandigarh to Mcleodganj. There are regular bus services, both government-operated and private, that ply to and fro Mcleodganj. You can also hire or rent a cab or a taxi to Mcleodganj from nearby places.
Once you reach Mcleodganj, you can start the Chamba trek over Minkiani pass from Dharamkot, a village near Mcleodganj, and follow the trail to Triund, Laka Got, Lahesh Cave, Indrahar Pass, Chata Parao, Kuarsi, and Bharmour. You can also take a cab to Galu temple, which is the starting point of the trek, and save some time and energy.
For bookings and inquiries, contact +91 9736018883
Chamba Trek Over Indrahara Pass
Indrahar Pass Trek
Kareri Lake Trek
Paragliding at Dharamshala
Minkiani Pass Trek is among the very less explored treks in Himachal Pradesh. The pass lies 7 kms from Kareri lake and is a perfect blend of scenery and adventure in Dhauladhar mountain range.
Minkiani Pass lies at an height of 4,343 meters same as Indrahar pass. The route to Minkiani Pass is steep and wishes good fitness level. Highly recommended for ladies trekkers.
32°17.852′N 76°22.872′E and an altitude of 4,342 metres (14,245 ft) above mean sea level, near the tourist town of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, Indrahar pass forms the border between Kangra and Chamba districts. It is part of a very popular trekking route from Dharamshala.
The Indrahar Pass Trek difficulty is rated moderate to difficult, demanding good fitness, proper acclimatization, and essential gear due to steep, rocky terrain, high altitude (around 14,245 ft / 4,342m), and potential snow/ice, especially challenging from Lahesh Cave to the pass itself, making a guide highly recommended.