If youâve ever dreamed of walking through pine forests, crossing frozen streams, and sliding down snow slopesâSar Pass Trek is where it all comes true.
Tucked away in Himachal Pradeshâs Parvati Valley, Sar Pass Trek is not just a trekâitâs a journey through changing landscapes, unforgettable friendships, and moments that make you feel truly alive. When I signed up for it, I thought it would be just another mountain hike. I couldnât have been more wrong.
It all started with a casual scroll through Instagram. I saw a reel of people sliding down a snow-covered slope, screaming with joy. I was hooked. A bit of research led me to Sar Pass, one of the most popular treks organized by YHAI and various trekking groups. What made it irresistible? The varietyâforests, meadows, snowfields, and a high-altitude pass at 13,800 ft.âall packed into one 5-day adventure.
I called up a couple of friends, and just like that, we booked our slots and packed our rucksacks.
Our trek started from Kasol, the dreamy backpacker village that needs no introduction. Reaching there was part of the thrillâwe took an overnight bus from Delhi to Bhuntar, then hopped into a local cab that twisted and turned through the mountains until we finally reached Kasol.
It was May, the sun was out, the air was crisp, and Kasol was buzzing with trekkers, café-hoppers, and the unmistakable scent of pine and adventure.
We began our trek by leaving the roads and heading straight into the forest. The trail was narrow, shaded by towering pine trees, and every turn revealed something newâa bubbling stream, a clearing with wildflowers, or just breathtaking views of the valley.
After about 7-8 km, we reached Grahan Village, a charming hamlet where time seems to have slowed down. The people, the wooden houses, and the hot chai at the local shop made us feel like weâd stepped into another world.
This stretch got steeper. The trail took us out of the tree line and into open meadows. The views became grander with each step. Snow-capped peaks began to show in the distance, and I remember standing still more than onceâjust to soak it all in.
At Min Thach, we camped under a million stars. The night was cold, but the skyâoh, the sky! I had never seen the Milky Way so clearly before.
This was the most challenging day yet. The air got thinner, the wind sharper, and the trail was steep and covered in snow patches. But the excitement of getting closer to the summit kept us going.
By the time we reached Nagaru, the wind was howling and we were completely surrounded by snow. We huddled into our sleeping bags, nervous and excited for the next day.
We woke up around 3:30 AM, strapped on our headlamps, and began the final ascent in pitch darkness. As dawn broke, the world turned golden. Step by step, we reached the Sar Pass summit at 13,800 ft.âand let me tell you, Iâve never felt more alive.
And then came the best part: the snow slide. A long, thrilling stretch of sliding down snow slopes, screaming like kids and laughing uncontrollably. It was pure joy.
After that adrenaline rush, we descended into Biskeri Thach, a lush meadow surrounded by tall peaks. It felt like a reward from the mountains.
Our final day was a gentle descent through forests, streams, and apple orchards. We passed a few remote villages before reaching Barshaini, where jeeps were waiting to take us back to Kasol.
The ideal time is May to early June and September to mid-October. Expect snow in May and clear skies post-monsoon. Avoid the rainy season, as trails get slippery and risky.
Q: How difficult is Sar Pass trek?
A: Itâs a moderate-level trek, suitable for fit beginners. Expect steep climbs and walking 6â10 km daily.
Q: How do I reach the starting point?
A: Take a bus to Bhuntar, then a local cab to Kasol, which is the base camp.
Q: Do I need a guide or can I go solo?
A: Itâs strongly recommended to go with a group or organization, especially because of snow and navigation issues.
Q: Is there network connectivity?
A: Youâll get signal in Kasol, but once the trek startsâno network, which honestly, is a blessing.
Q: Is AMS (Altitude Sickness) a concern?
A: Sar Pass is under 14,000 ft., so AMS is rare. Stay hydrated and ascend gradually.
The Sar Pass Trek wasnât just a physical challengeâit was an emotional and spiritual reset. It reminded me how small we are compared to the mountains, and how powerful nature can be when we truly surrender to it.
If you're looking for that first big Himalayan trek, one that will stay in your memory forever, Sar Pass is calling.
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