Bara Bhangal(The Lost Village)
$1790 per person
Bara Banghal Trek – A Remote Himalayan Odyssey Through Gaddi Lands
The Bara Banghal Trek is one of Himachal Pradesh’s most remote and rewarding high-altitude trails. Named after the secluded village of Bara Banghal in the Kangra district, this strenuous 13-day trek takes you across majestic passes, wild meadows, and centuries-old shepherd trails used by the Gaddi tribe.
Starting from Manali and ending in Dharamshala, the trail crosses the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges via two challenging passes—Kalihani Pass (4,850 m) and Thamsar Pass (4,782 m). The route connects the Kullu and Kangra valleys, offering ever-changing landscapes: from lush forests and alpine flower carpets to stark glacial valleys and river crossings.
The trek leads to the mysterious Bara Banghal village, nestled deep within the mountains and isolated for much of the year. The Ravi River flows through this ancient settlement, whose residents still rely on ponies to transport goods across the mountain passes. The trail ends in Dharamshala, also known as “India’s Little Lhasa,” the seat of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Trek Details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | 13 Days |
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| Altitude Range | 2,100 m to 4,850 m |
| Best Time | Late June to Early October |
| Start Point | Manali |
| End Point | Dharamshala |
| Major Passes | Kalihani Pass, Thamsar Pass |
| Cultural Region | Kullu, Kangra, Bara Banghal |
Highlights of the Bara Banghal Trek
Cross Two High-Altitude Passes
Experience jaw-dropping views while traversing Kalihani Pass and Thamsar Pass, both rising above 4,700 meters.
Bara Banghal Village Stay
Stay in one of the remotest Himalayan villages, completely cut off during the harsh winters, preserving its unique traditions.
Rich Flora and Fauna
Spot rare Himalayan wildlife such as the Musk Deer and Himalayan Brown Bear, alongside vibrant alpine flowers and high-altitude birds.
Gaddi Shepherd Culture
Interact with Gaddi herders, the nomadic mountain people who call these highlands home. Learn about their deep spiritual and ecological connection to the land.
From Green Valleys to Glacier Basins
Witness a dramatic shift in landscapes as the trail ascends from verdant meadows to stark glacial valleys and snow-covered peaks.
-
Destination
1
Day 01: Arrival in Delhi – Airport Pick-up & Hotel Stay in Delhi
Our representative will receive you at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and transfer you to your hotel in central Delhi. Relax, freshen up, and prepare for your Himalayan journey.
Stay: 4/5 star hotel in Delhi
Altitude: 216m
2
Day 02: Arrive at Bhuntar Airport
Bhuntar Airport to Manali (Tour Start Point)
Airport: Bhuntar Airport (IATA: KUU)
Altitude: 1,050 m
Arrival & Transfer
- Meet & Greet: Our representative will receive you at Bhuntar Airport.
- Transfer to Manali (Distance: 50 km / 1.5-2 hours)
-
- Scenic drive along the Beas River.
- Check-in to pre-booked hotel in Manali.
- Light meals recommended.
- Relax and let your body adjust to the mountain air.
- Avoid strenuous activity on Day 1.
- Tour orientation:
-
- Safety protocols
- Route overview
- Emergency & backup plans
- Document verification
3
Day 03: Manali- Lamadug(3017m): 4/5 hrs
A bit further up from Manali is the temple dedicated to the goddess Hadimba Devi, where the hike starts. Its front entrance is embellished with pictures and symbols, and its roof is designed like a four-tiered pagoda. The Hadimba shrine is followed by a mild climb through thick forest. Two hours later, we arrive to a spot with views of the DeoTibba (6001m) and Indersan (6220m) peaks. Spend the night camping by the creek.
4
Day 04: Lamadug- Riyali Thach(3400m): 6/7 hrs
The day starts with a hike to Khanpari Tibba (4000m). The Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal, and Chandrabhaga ranges, with their magnificent mountains, may be seen in a stunning 360-degree panorama from there. From Khanparipari Tibba, the trek descends to Riyali Thach, where we will camp tonight.
5
Day 05: Riyali Thach - Shangor (3800m): 5hrs
Continue walking through the alpine forest from Riyali until you reach a little creek. Continue going on the left side for a short while after crossing it. You may take in a breathtaking vista of the upper and lower Kullu valleys as you reach the end of the tree line. Camp for the night.
6
Day 06: Shangor - KALIHANI PASS (4640 m) - DhankoThach: 6/7hrs
Climb gradually over a difficult path across a snow-covered glacier. After that, climb over the glacier for a fascinating experience. Finally arrive at the top of Kalihani Pass (4640m). From here, one may enjoy a view of the major peaks of Kullu and the Lahaul Valley. Go over the pass; you'll cross a number of hazardous rivers on your descent. For example, across a stone bridge with a rope rail.You will follow the little brook that emerges from the pass after descending across ice areas. Arrive to the campsite at DhankoThach. Camp for the night.
7
Day 07: DhankoThach – Lamba Parao(3150 m): 5/6 hrs
It took one and a half hours to descend gradually into the valley. After crossing the Kalihani brook via bridge, continue on the trail beside it. Camp along the creek. Stay in the camp overnight.
8
Day 08: LambaParao - SuniParao(3000 m): 5/6 hrs
High-altitude alpine trail connecting remote grazing meadows or resting points. Alpine meadows , mixed terrain of grassland, rocks, boulders, and stream crossings. Lamba Parao and Suni Parao are usually temporary pasture lands or rest halts used by shepherds.
9
Day 09: SuniParao - BARA BANGAHAL (2,540 m): 12 Km- 5 hrs
This segment is a key descent section of the trek toward the isolated village of Bara Bhangal(One of the most remote and culturally distinct villages in Himachal Pradesh), nestled deep in the Ravi River valley. It connects the high grazing meadows of Suni Parao with the valley floor and the ancient Gaddi settlement. A high-altitude meadow or shepherd parao, with stunning sunrise views over snow-capped ridges. You’ll cross glacial streams that flow down into the Ravi River; a few wooden or makeshift log bridges may be present.
10
Day 10: Bara Banghal - Marh (3850 m) - Base of THAMSAR PASS(4782m): 6/7 hrs
This segment marks the transition from the secluded village of Bara Bhangal to the alpine meadows of Marh, setting the stage for the Thamsar Pass crossing. The trail involves a steady climb, offering trekkers a mix of natural beauty and physical challenge. The final stretch involves a steeper climb through grassy slopes and scattered boulders, leading to the expansive meadows of Marh, situated near the base of the Thamsar Glacier.
11
Day 11: Base Camp - THAMSAR PASS(4700 m) –Panihartu(3600 m): 14 Km: 5/6 hrs trek
Early morning departure is crucial to avoid weather changes and softened snow. Steep, consistent ascent over boulder fields, glacier, and snow patches. Final ascent to the pass involves zigzag switchbacks and snow-covered slopes depending on season. Thamsar Pass to Panihartu there is a steep, technical descent that may involve scree, rock, and glacier runoff. A scenic meadow next to a glacial stream — often used as a resting campsite.
12
Day 12: Panihartu - Rajgunda (2850 m): 16 Km: 6/7 hrs
The trail enters dense coniferous forests, including deodar, pine, and rhododendron. Underfoot, the trail can be muddy, especially after rain or snowmelt. Occasional clearings offer beautiful panoramic views of the valley below and surrounding ridgelines. You may encounter Gaddi shepherd camps depending on the season. Watch for signs of Himalayan birds like monals or lammergeiers, and possibly wild goats or langurs. Arrival at Rajgunda, is a peaceful, forest-encircled Himachali village, known for its stone-and-wood homes and scenic setting. Offers basic homestays and local hospitality — a welcome cultural change after remote camping. From here, the trail continues to Billing (paragliding point) the next day.
13
Day 13: Rajgunda– Billing (2600 m) - Bir (2000 m): 15 km: 5/6 hrs
A comfortable, descending trail with a few rolling stretches and short ascents. Surfaces vary, forest floor, dirt trail, and occasional rocky patches. Pass through or near Chhota Rajgundha and Kukargundha, two small hamlets en route. You'll see terraced farms, wooden bridges, and paragliders overhead as you near Billing. Billing is India’s premier paragliding takeoff point, with wide-open meadows and views of the Kangra Valley. Facilities include cafés, small shops, rest areas, and vehicle access to Bir (1-hour drive down). Enjoy a paragliding flight from Billing to Bir (World Cup-level paragliding zone).
14
Day 14: Bir - Dharamsala(1300 m): 65 km drive
One can enjoy the city and also Moanstery area where Dalai Lama live.
15
Day 15: Drive to Delhi(540 km) or via Flight in the morning to Delhi
Time to separate with the team and Flight to Delhi. Rest in Delhi for night or can take flight way back at the same day.
Leave a Reply
Accommodation & Gear
- High-quality alpine tents (twin sharing basis)
- Season-rated sleeping bags and insulated sleeping mats
- All essential camping gear provided and set up by our team
- All meals included: Nutritious vegetarian breakfast, packed lunch, evening tea/snacks, and hot dinner
- Boiled or filtered drinking water provided daily
- Experienced trek leader and certified mountain guide
- Skilled cook and kitchen team
- Camp helpers and porters/mules for luggage and equipment transport
- Pick-up and drop-off as per the trek itinerary (from base location)
- Comprehensive first-aid kit with basic high-altitude medications
- Oxygen cylinder available for emergency use (on high-altitude treks)
- Participants need only carry a light daypack with essentials (water bottle, snacks, jacket)
- Main backpack/duffel (up to 10 kg) will be carried by porters/mules
- Travel & Rescue Insurance: All participants are required to carry personal travel and emergency evacuation insurance
- Personal Expenses: Expenses such as phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery charging, and additional porters/horses if required.
- Unexpected Costs: Any expenses arising due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the itinerary (e.g., weather delays, route changes, natural calamities).
- Town-Based Costs: Any meals, drinks, or accommodation outside the trekking route (in towns or cities) are not included.
- Gratuities: Tips for trekking staff, guides, and support crew are not included (though appreciated).
- Anything Not Mentioned Above: Any services or items not explicitly listed under “Inclusions” are to be considered additional.