Find Your Next Adventure: 20 Must-Do Treks in Manali, India

Manali, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, India, is not just known for its beautiful valleys and snowy mountains. It is also a paradise for trekking lovers. With many trekking routes suitable for beginners to experienced trekkers, Manali offers some of the best mountain adventures in India.

Here are 20 must-do treks around Manali that you should add to your travel bucket list.

1. Hampta Pass Trek

Altitude: 14,100 feet

Trek Distance: 26 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Hampta Pass trek is one of the most loved treks near Manali. It connects the lush green Kullu Valley to the barren landscapes of Lahaul. The trek offers changing views of forests, rivers, waterfalls, and snow-covered mountains. It usually takes about 4 to 5 days and is perfect for beginners who want to experience high-altitude trekking.

2. Beas Kund Trek

Altitude: 12,772 feet

Trek Distance: 16 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Beas Kund is the source of the Beas River. The trek starts from Solang Valley and takes you through green meadows and peaceful campsites. This short trek is great for first-timers and families.

3. Bhrigu Lake Trek

Altitude: 14,100 feet

Trek Distance: 22 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Bhrigu Lake is a high-altitude glacial lake located east of Rohtang Pass. This trek gives you stunning views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges. It is popular among those who want a quick mountain escape.

4. Chandrakhani Pass Trek

Altitude: 12,030 feet

Trek Distance: 20 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

This trek takes you to the scenic Chandrakhani Pass which offers wide views of the Deo Tibba, Pir Panjal, and Parvati ranges. It’s a peaceful trek ideal for those who want less-crowded trails.

5. Deo Tibba Base Camp Trek

Altitude: 14,000 feet

Trek Distance: 75 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult

This trek is perfect for those who love to explore less-traveled paths. You will walk through forests, rivers, and high-altitude meadows to reach the base camp of Deo Tibba. The route is long and best suited for experienced trekkers.

6. Sar Pass Trek

Altitude: 13,580 feet

Trek Distance: 48 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Moderate

The Sar Pass trek starts from Kasol, close to Manali. It is a favorite among backpackers and offers a mix of forests, meadows, and snow fields. The trek ends at Barshaini village near Tosh.

7. Pin Parvati Pass Trek

Altitude: 17,457 feet

Trek Distance: 110 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Difficult

This is one of the longest and most challenging treks in the region. It connects the Parvati Valley in Kullu to the Pin Valley in Spiti. You need good stamina and preparation for this high-altitude adventure.

8. Patalsu Peak Trek

Altitude: 13,845 feet

Trek Distance: 16 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Patalsu Peak is a short trek starting from Solang Valley. It offers beautiful views of snow-covered peaks and is great for adventure seekers looking for a quick summit climb.

9. Lama Dugh Trek

Altitude: 9,900 feet

Trek Distance: 12 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Easy

This is an easy one-day trek ideal for beginners. The trail goes through thick pine forests and opens up to a beautiful meadow with great views of the Manalsu Valley.

10. Friendship Peak Trek

Altitude: 17,345 feet

Trek Distance: 34 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Friendship Peak is a real mountaineering expedition. It is suitable for trekkers with prior experience and those looking to climb a peak. The views from the top are rewarding but getting there requires physical and mental strength.

11. Tosh Valley Trek

Altitude: 7,874 feet

Trek Distance: 6 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Easy

Tosh is a small village located near Kasol. The trek to Tosh is short and scenic, making it a perfect option for a day hike or overnight camp.

12. Kheerganga Trek

Altitude: 9,711 feet

Trek Distance: 12 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Kheerganga is one of the most popular treks for young travelers. Known for its hot water spring at the top, this trek offers beautiful views of Parvati Valley and can be done over a weekend.

13. Prashar Lake Trek

Altitude: 8,956 feet

Trek Distance: 9 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Easy

Located near Mandi, Prashar Lake is surrounded by the Dhauladhar ranges. This trek is easy and can be done in a day, making it suitable for families and beginners.

14. Malana Village Trek

Altitude: 8,701 feet

Trek Distance: 4 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Easy

This short trek takes you to Malana, an ancient Himalayan village with a unique culture. The trail is short but offers amazing valley views.

15. Rani Sui Lake Trek

Altitude: 11,154 feet

Trek Distance: 20 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Rani Sui Lake is a hidden gem located above the Manalsu Valley. The lake is peaceful and the trail is perfect for trekkers looking for less commercial spots.

16. Sethan Dome Trek

Altitude: 13,000 feet

Trek Distance: 10 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Sethan is a quiet village near Manali and the trek to Sethan Dome is gaining popularity. It is a good winter trek for snow lovers and offers great views of the Kullu Valley.

17. Jagatsukh to Chika Trek

Altitude: 11,000 feet

Trek Distance: 15 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

This offbeat trail starts from Jagatsukh village and leads to Chika through dense forests and small streams. It’s a peaceful and enjoyable trek away from the crowds.

18. Bijli Mahadev Trek

Altitude: 8,000 feet

Trek Distance: 6 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Easy

Bijli Mahadev is a temple trek that offers views of the Kullu Valley and Parvati Valley. It’s an easy day hike with spiritual significance and beautiful scenery.

19. Manikaran to Harinder Mountain Trek

Altitude: 10,000 feet

Trek Distance: 8 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Moderate

This short trek starts from the pilgrimage town of Manikaran. The trail climbs up to Harinder Mountain and gives panoramic views of the valley below.

20. Chanderkhani to Malana Trek

Altitude: 12,000 feet

Trek Distance: 22 kilometers

Difficulty Level: Moderate

This trek takes you from the scenic Chanderkhani Pass down to Malana village. It’s a perfect mix of culture, nature, and adventure.

Final Thoughts

Manali has something for every kind of trekker. Whether you are a first-timer or an experienced hiker, you will find trails that suit your level and offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas. These 20 treks not only bring you close to nature but also allow you to explore the rich culture and traditions of Himachal Pradesh. So pack your bags, wear your hiking shoes, and set out on your next big adventure in Manali.