Trekkers also come across Lake Mantalai on their way to the Pin Parvati pass. However, the trail upto Mantalai, situated at 4100 m (13,500 ft) is a challenging Trek in itself, involving a significant gain in altitude from the base.
Total Distance: 86k.m Approx
(Challenging, May to Oct)
Day 01: Manali – Manikaran -Barsheni (100 kms)
Travel by surface from Manali to Manikaran (85 kms)
Day 02:Barsheni – Khirganga
Gradual ascent through villages, fields and forest. Khirganga (2960 m) is a holy place with Hot water springs. Overnight in tents.
Day 03: Khirganga – Tunda Bhuj
Through forest level walking to reach Tunda Bhuj (3285 m). The trail crosses several delightful pastures supporting a variety of wildflowers in the summer. Overnight in tents.
Day 04: Tunda Bhuj – Thakar Kuan
Through birch forest crossing rocks and dense vegetation. This section of valley is difficult at places as the trail frequently skirts rock faces that are difficult for laden porters. Reach Thakur Kuan (3560 m) above the cliff section. Overnight in tents.
Day 05: Thakar Kuan – Pandu Bridge
Beyond Thakar Kuan, the trail passes several Gaddi encampments before crossing a side river by a natural rock bridge. Trek for 12 kms to reach Pandu Bridge (3700 m). Overnight in tents.
Day 06: Pandu Bridge – Mantalai Lake
Trek for 15 kms to reach Mantalai Lake (4116 m), the source of Parbati River. There is a choice of grassy camp- sites just beyond Mantalai. Overnight in tents.
Day 07: Mantalai Lake – Pandu Bridge
Trek back the same way from Mantalai to Pandu Bridge. Overnight in Tents
Day 08: Pandu Bridge – Thakar Kuan
Trek back the same way from Pandu Bridge to Thakur Kuan. Overnight in Tents
Day 09: Thakar Kuan – Khirganga
Trek back from Thakur Kuan to Khirganga. Overnight in Tents
Day 10:Khirganga- Barsheni – Manikaran – Kullu or Manali drop
Return to Barsheni from where a vehicle will pick you up and drop you back at Kullu or Manali where the trek ends.
