Overview

The Sar Pass Trek is a highly popular trekking route in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India, attracting adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers from all over the world. The trek is moderately difficult, making it accessible to those with a reasonable level of fitness and experience. The trek takes you through dense forests of pine, oak, and deodar trees, pristine meadows dotted with colorful wildflowers, and charming villages where you can interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.

Sar Pass Trek Itinerary

Day:1 Kasol To Grahan Village

• Altitude:
  • Kasol: 1,700 m / 5,600 ft
  • Grahan Stop: 2000 m / 6,500 ft
  • Grahan Village: 2,350 m / 7,700 ft
• Drive Distance: 8 Km | 45 minutes
• Trek Distance: 2 Km | 1 hr

The Sar Pass Trek journey begins with an 8 km drive from the beautiful mountain village of Kasol to Grahan Stop, followed by a 2 km steep ascent to Grahan Village in Himachal Pradesh. Grahan Village is renowned for its enchanting evergreen forests and creeks, nestled beside the gushing Parvati River. The journey commences with an 8 km drive to Grahan Stop. Upon reaching the last road point at Grahan Stop, we'll commence the 2 km steep ascent to Grahan Village, our first-day campsite. The initial part of the trail passes through dense coniferous forests and the aroma of the pine trees will invade your senses as you walk through the forest.

After walking through the forested patch for some time, the forests will eventually give way to grasslands and you can see some local vendors with their tea stalls. These stalls also sell Rhododendron syrup, which is mixed with water to make a very refreshing drink. Grahan village is not very far. From here, it is about a steep climb of one hour before you enter the picturesque village setting.

Grahan is situated at the top of a hill and we will camp here for the night. Mobile coverage is sometimes available in Grahan but it is very erratic. The campsite is surrounded by Rhododendron trees making it look even more beautiful. After having a delicious lunch at the campsite, you can go about exploring the quaint village and its surroundings. The pleasantness of the scenery with the beautiful mountain views will captivate you. After a delectable dinner, you will retire to your tents ending the first day of trekking.

Day:2 Grahan Village To Min Thach

• Altitude:
  • Grahan Village: 2,350 m / 7,700 ft
  • Min Thatch: 3,400 m / 11,150 ft
• Trek Distance: 8 km | 5-6 hrs.

Today we will trek to Min Thach, a beautiful meadow that falls en route to your trek. To reach Min Thach, we will follow the trail that goes north from our campsite at Grahan, this path will lead you to Min Thach. We will start our trek post a hearty breakfast at the Grahan campsite.

After walking for some time, wonderful mountain views begin to open up and the trail to Min Thach will be on your right. The climb to the meadow is a little steep and sometimes the trail becomes a little confusing, follow your trek leader’s instructions during these confusing patches. After walking for a few hours through the dense forests, it will open into a grassy ridge, this is Min Thach clearing and we will find a proper location here and pitch our tents for an overnight stay. Min Thach is usually used by locals to graze their cattle.

On the northwest side, you will get views of Chanderkhani and its adjoining mountain ranges stretching across the horizon. In the southeast, it is lined with dense evergreen forests. Sometimes there are also seasonal vendor stalls that sell tea, coffee, and the like. There’s also a water source in the form of a tap, and you will get potable water here. This is a good place to camp as the ridge protects the tents against strong winds.  Also, having a day between Grahan and Nagaru campsite allows for the body to acclimatize well to the weather and the altitude. Sunset and sunrise views are especially beautiful here. Once you reach the campsite, relax and enjoy a beautiful sunset over the snow-clad mountains. After a hot dinner at the campsite, you will end the day and retire in your tents.

Day:3 Min Thach To Nagaru

• Altitude:
  • Min Thatch: 3,400 m / 11,150 ft
  • Nagaru: 3,800 m / 12,400 ft
• Trek Distance: 5 km | 4-5 hrs

From Min Thach, you get glimpses of Nagaru and it doesn’t seem all that far but we are not going to take the straight ridge path to Nagaru, rather the trail entwines up towards the south and follows into the woods. Depending on the time you are visiting the trek, you may find patches of snow on the trail. It’s a good idea to start early as most of the time the weather remains favorable up until noon, post which it can be unpredictable. So, we will start out early today. 

Day:4 Nagaru To Biskeri Thach Via Sar Pass

• Altitude:
  • Nagaru: 3,800 m / 12,400 ft
  • Sar Pass: 4,200 m / 13,600 ft
  • Biskeri Thach: 3,350 m / 11,000 ft
• Trek Distance: 12 km | 7-8 hrs

Today is an exciting day of trekking and also the longest trekking day. Today will head to Sar Pass! We will start the day early and wake up before dawn as we have a distance of 12 km to cover. The climb to the Pass is much like yesterday and you will use the same techniques. We will climb along the ridge line in a southward direction, there will be a couple of steep stretches that would test your physical and mental endurance. Keep a steady pace as you climb these stretches and cross the snow patches.

Day:5 Biskeri Thach To Pulga And Drive Back To Kasol

• Altitude:
  • Biskeri Thach: 3,350 m / 11,000 ft
  • Pulga: 2,400 m / 7,800 ft
• Trek Distance: 6 km | 4-5 hrs
• Drive Distance: 18 km | 1 hr

Today is the last day of trekking in the mountains and also the last day of your wonderful journey to Sar Pass. Today is also a long walk and we have to cover a distance of 6 km downhill. From Biskeri Thach a steep path goes down below by the side of a stream. The trail ends at a fenced plot of land so you have to go through the land before you hop on the trail again.

Things to Carry for Sar Pass Trek

Packing smart is key for a safe and comfortable Himalayan experience. Here’s your complete checklist:

Clothing (Layering is essential)

• 2 full-sleeve quick-dry t-shirts (one for trek, one spare)
• 1 light fleece jacket or pullover
• 1 heavy down or padded jacket (for high-altitude cold)
• 2 pairs of trekking pants (preferably quick-dry; avoid jeans)
• Thermal innerwear (top & bottom) – 1 pair
• 3 pairs of woolen/trekking socks + 2 regular socks
• 1 woolen cap + 1 sun cap or hat
• 1 pair of gloves (1 woolen, 1 waterproof if possible)
• Raincoat/poncho (a must for sudden showers)
• Buff or scarf (for neck/head protection)

Footwear

• Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support (already broken-in)
• 1 pair of slippers/sandals for campsites

Bags

• 1 backpack (50–60L) with rain cover
• 1 daypack (10–15L) for water, camera, and essentials (if you’re offloading main bag)

Toiletries & Hygiene

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash
• Biodegradable soap or wipes
• Quick-dry towel
• Toilet paper & tissues
• Hand sanitizer, lip balm, moisturizer, and sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Menstrual hygiene products (if applicable)

Personal Medications & First Aid

• Personal medication (if any)
• Basic medicines: Crocin, Combiflam, Avomine (motion sickness), Digene, ORS, antiseptic cream
• Band-aids, crepe bandage, cotton, Dettol
• Diamox (only after consulting your doctor) for altitude sickness

Accessories

• Headlamp/torch with extra batteries
• Sunglasses (UV-protected, wraparound preferred)
• Water bottle (1L) or hydration pack
• Energy bars, dry fruits, ORS packets, glucose
• Trekking pole (optional but helpful for beginners)

Miscellaneous

• Power bank (mobile charging is not available on trail)
• Camera/GoPro (optional)
• Small notebook & pen (for journaling)
• Identity proof (Aadhaar card or passport photocopy)

Important Trekking Tips

Make the most of your Himalayan adventure with these helpful tips from The Peak Freaksteam:

Before the Trek

• Prepare physically: Cardio, squats, and leg strengthening exercises 3–4 weeks before the trek.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking at least 1 week before — they affect your oxygen levels.
• Get a medical check-up if you have existing health conditions or are above 45.

During the Trek

• Hydrate constantly — drink at least 3–4 liters of water daily.
• Pace yourself — slow and steady wins the mountain! Avoid racing ahead.
• Don’t skip meals — your body needs fuel for high-altitude hiking.
• Inform your trek leader immediately if you feel dizzy, breathless, or nauseous.

Safety & Environment