Overview
The Parang La Pass Trek is one of the most spectacular and challenging Himalayan journeys, connecting the rugged landscapes of Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh with the vast Changthang Plateau of Ladakh. Following an ancient trade route once used by traders traveling between Spiti, Ladakh, and Tibet, this trek offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Crossing the majestic Parang La Pass at an altitude of 5,600 meters, trekkers experience dramatic mountain scenery, high-altitude deserts, remote valleys, pristine rivers, and diverse Himalayan wildlife. The trek culminates at the stunning Tso Moriri Lake, one of Ladakh’s most beautiful high-altitude lakes, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and nomadic settlements. Combined with visits to ancient Buddhist monasteries and traditional villages in Spiti, this expedition is an unforgettable adventure for experienced trekkers seeking a true Himalayan wilderness experience.
Itinerary
Parangla Pass Trek (Spiti to Ladakh)
Route : Delhi - Manali - Kaza - Parangla - Rachu Lamo - Korzok - Leh - Delhi
Total Duration : 16 Nights / 17 Days
An ancient trade route between Spiti region of Himachal and Changthang plains of Ladakh and the neighbouring Tibet. The trek begins in Spiti valley and crossing over Prang La into ladakh
Days on Trek: 08 Days
Maximum Elevation: 5600 Meters Above sea Level
Starting Point of the Trek: Kibber in Spiti Valley
Rating: Strenuous
Best time: July & August
Highlights: High Himalayan pass, high altitude Tsomorori Lake, dry cold dessert of Spiti valley, Himalayan wildlife, rare species of birds, pastoral nomadic tribe.
The trail follows the ancient trade route between Spiti region of Himachal and Changthang plains of Ladakh and the neighbouring Tibet. The trek begins in spiti valley of Himachal Pradesh and crossing over Prang La (5600M) we enter into the Chang Thang high altitude plains an extention of Tibetan Plateau into ladakh and ends at Tso Moriri, a high altitude lake(4300 M) which is 27 kms long and 8 kms wide.
Before starting the trek we spend few days for acclization in Spiti are where we visit some of the most ancient Buddhist monasteries and remote village.
On arrival at airport in Delhi our driver will meet you and drive to Nalagarh, the gateway to Himachal. Situated on the foothills of Himalayas, Nalagarh was once capital of princely state of Hindur. The ancient fort and palace of Nalagarh have a series of structures that are built in Mughal style of architecture. The place have been much recently renovated and now is a quality heritage hotel. Overnight stay in Nalagarh Fort Resort.
Arrive the hill town of Manali in the afternoon and check in Hotel.
Morning Free. Afternoon driver to Solang Valley to start an acclimatization walk from Solang Valley to old Manali. During the walk you come across the traditional villages of Manali. Overnight stay in Hotel in Manali.
Leave after an early breakfast. This day we cross two beautiful mountain passes-Rohtang pass & Kunzum Pass. After three hours of beautiful drive we cross over Rohtang pass. As soon as we cross the pass there you will notice a dramatic change in the landscape-the lush green kullu valley is suddenly replaced by dry cold dessert of Lahul and Spiti region. Descend down from Rohtang pass for an hour to continue drive along Chandra river to Kunzum Pass(4500M). After crossing Kunzum pass we enter into Spiti valley. Arrive Kaza in the evening and check in Hotel/Guest House.
Day for acclimatization. An excursion to visit Langza, Komic and Hikkim villages including a short walk for acclimatization. Overnight stay in Hotel/Guest House.
Trek Begins. Leave after an early breakfast and drive to Kibber, the highest permanently inhabited village in the world at an altitude of 4200 M. The famous Ki monatery also comes enruoute. Kibber to Dumla is an easy walk for the first day. Overnight stay in tents.
First we descend into the gorge and then begins the steep climb to the Thaltak meadows. Today we start to see Parangla and the snow caped mountains all around. Camp at Thaltak meadow for overnight stay.
Long day. After a short descent into the paralugui gorge we start the uphill walk to the campsite at the base of Parangla. The parilugui summit stands erected towards the south of Parang-la.
Leave after an early breakfast. It takes 5 hours to reach the pass. The last 4 kms to the pass is a very steep ascent. The pass lies on the ancient trade route between Spiti and Tibet. The two sides not did the trade but exchanged the traditions and culture that flowed from Tibet into Spiti.
From the pass we get superb view of Spiti Valley on one side and the vast Changthang plains on the other. From the pass we descend down on a glacier which is the source of Pare Chu river that flows into Tibet and then again enters Spiti and joins Spiti river at Sumdo. Camp for overnight stay in Pare Chu valley at Largyup.
A well maked trail along Pare Chu river takes us to the next camping place. As we walk through the main Valley we can see lot of adjoining valleys with snow-clad summits.
Walking all the way beside the Para Chu River. And through widely extended Parachu Valley with numerous beautiful side valleys. we get to the campsite along the Parachu River.
Today we walk across the Chang Thang plains to the southern edge of Tso Moriri Lake. The place is called Kiangdom named after the Kiang (wild Tibetan asses) which are seen here in number. Here the Tso Moriri lake breaks into several small channels creating a wetland and a suitable habitat for several rare species of migratory birds. Camp for overnight stay.
Walking along the Tso-moriri Lake. The largest lake in the Rupshu district, length – 15 miles, width – 3 to 5 miles and depth 248 ft the water is brackish. On its western shore stands Korzok monastery and the village. Overnight stay in tents. Trek Ends here.
Drive to Leh. Arrive and check in Hotel in Leh.
Morning drive into Indus valley to visit Hemis, Shey and thiksey monasteries. Afternoon visit Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa and Leh bazaar.
Morning drive into Sham valley to visit Alchi, Likir Monasteries and Basgo village. Overnight at Hotel in Leh.
Morning transfer to Leh airport for flight to Delhi. End of Services.