RM
Rohan Mehta
May 2025
“I chose Sar Pass as my first Himalayan trek and couldn't believe how much the scenery changed every day. The snow crossing on summit day was the moment I'll remember for years.”
Sar Pass Trek
Parvati Valley, Kullu Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh
“Cross a snow-covered Himalayan pass from Kasol through forests, meadows, and high camps in Parvati Valley.”
Altitude
13799 ft
Duration
5 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Best time
May – Jun Sep – Oct
Standout Experiences
- Watch the trail transform from Kasol's pine forests to snowy slopes above Nagaru, then descend into the green meadows of Biskeri Thach on the same day.
- Cross Sar Pass at around 4,200 metres and enjoy the famous snow descent that has made this trek a favourite among first-time Himalayan trekkers.
- Spend a night at Nagaru, the highest campsite on the trek, where sunrise lights up the peaks above Parvati Valley.
- Walk through Grahan, one of the oldest villages in Parvati Valley, before leaving settlements behind for remote alpine camps.
Overview
Updated 10 Aug 2026
- The Sar Pass Trek is one of those rare Himalayan trails where the landscape keeps changing every single day. You begin in the lively mountain town of Kasol, walk through the traditional village of Grahan, climb into dense pine and rhododendron forests, camp on wide alpine meadows like Min Thach and Biskeri Thach, and finally stand on Sar Pass at around 4,200 metres with snow stretching across the ridge. Few beginner-friendly Himalayan treks pack this much variety into five days.
- The highlight is summit day from Nagaru to Sar Pass. You'll start before sunrise, climb across snowfields, reach the high pass, and then descend with an unforgettable snow slide when conditions allow. The dramatic crossover from snowy slopes into lush green meadows is what makes the Sar Pass Trek different from many out-and-back Himalayan routes. By the time you descend towards Pulga, it feels like you've walked through three different mountain worlds in one journey.
- Spring batches in May and June usually combine blooming forests with lingering snow near the pass, making this the classic Sar Pass experience. September and October replace the snow with crystal-clear mountain views, golden grasslands, and quieter trails. Whether you're attempting your first Himalayan trek or looking for a route that offers forests, villages, high-altitude camps, and a proper mountain pass crossing, Sar Pass delivers all of it without requiring technical climbing.
Trek essentials
Max altitude
13,799 ft
Duration
5 Days
Total distance
33 km
Elevation gain
6,886 ft
Trek type
Point-to-point
Starting point
Kasol
Trail type
Forest, meadow, snow and mountain pass
Average cost (indicative)
₹8,500–₹12,500
Temp. range (°C)
-5°C to 20°C
Snow months
April to early June
Rain risk
Moderate during late May and June; high during monsoon
Base Camp
Kasol
Best Season
Late April to June
Nearest Airport
Bhuntar (Kullu)
Nearest Railway Station
Chandigarh
Mobile Network
Intermittent till Grahan; almost none after Min Thach
Trek Route
Detailed Itinerary
holiday_villageStayHomestay
signal_cellular_altDataPartial
boltPowerAvailable
- Wake around 6:30 AM, complete registration and breakfast, then begin trekking by about 8:00 AM. The 10 km trail usually takes 4–5 hours at an easy pace.
- The route follows the lively Grahan Nallah through dense pine and oak forests on a well-used village trail with gradual climbs and several wooden bridges.
- Small waterfalls, traditional wooden houses and occasional cafés appear along the way, while the sound of the river stays beside you for most of the climb.
- Reach Grahan village by early afternoon, explore its narrow stone lanes and ancient wooden homes, then spend the evening acclimatizing before an early dinner.
Packing List
Must Have
Trekking Boots
layers
3-Layer Clothes
backpack
50L Backpack
water_drop
Hydration
timeline
Trekking Pole
ac_unit
Down Jacket
thermostat
Thermal Layers
back_hand
Gloves
Woolen Socks
lightbulb
Headlamp
medical_services
First Aid Kit
Good to Have
battery_charging_full
Power Bank
photo_camera
Action Cam
checkroom
Quick-dry Towel
front_hand
Winter Gloves
directions_walk
Trek Gaiters
water_full
Hydration Bladder
Technical Overview
terrain
Trail and Terrain
The Sar Pass Trek begins on well-defined village paths before entering dense pine, oak and rhododendron forests. As the trek gains altitude, the forests give way to wide alpine meadows and eventually snow-covered slopes leading to the pass. The descent after the pass is steep over snowfields before rejoining grassy ridges and forest trails. Expect a combination of dirt tracks, rocky sections, snow patches and occasional stream crossings.
info
Altitude and Acclimatization
The trek climbs from around 1,700 metres at Kasol to nearly 4,200 metres at Sar Pass in just a few days. While the ascent is gradual through Grahan and Nagaru, the final climb to the pass reaches high altitude quickly. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and avoiding overexertion help reduce the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness. Trek leaders monitor trekkers closely during the higher camps.
ac_unit
Weather Conditions
Daytime temperatures usually range between 10°C and 20°C in the lower camps, while higher camps remain much colder. Nights at Nagaru often fall below freezing, especially in May. Snow remains on the upper trail well into early summer, while afternoon clouds and occasional rain showers are common. Carry waterproof layers even during clear weather.
info
Forests and Wildlife
The lower trail passes through thick Himalayan forests filled with pine, cedar, oak and rhododendron. During spring the rhododendron blooms paint the hillsides red and pink. Himalayan birds including monals, woodpeckers and various pheasants are commonly spotted, while langurs and other small mammals are occasionally seen along quieter stretches.
When to Visit
calendar_today
Classic spring snow trek
May – June
This is the most popular time for the Sar Pass Trek. Expect blooming forests, snowy slopes near the pass, cool temperatures, and lively trekking groups.
calendar_today
Clear mountain views
September – October
After the monsoon, the skies are usually clear and the forests look fresh. Snow is limited, but the visibility, golden meadows, and quieter trails make this an excellent alternative season.
Other Information
Logistics & inclusions
- check_circleReach Kasol via Bhuntar from Chandigarh or Delhi by overnight Volvo or private vehicle.
- check_circleMost operators conduct a briefing and equipment check at Kasol on arrival.
- check_circleExtra luggage can usually be stored safely at the base camp or operator guesthouse.
- check_circleMeals during the trek are provided from the trek start until the final campsite.
- check_circleShared transport is generally arranged from Biskeri Thach back to Kasol after completing the trek.
Permits
Required: Yes
Forest entry permissions are required and are generally arranged by registered trek operators. Carry a government-issued photo ID and passport-size photographs. Foreign nationals should carry passport and visa copies.
Safety
Risks
- Acute Mountain Sickness above 3,500 m
- Slippery snow slopes during the pass crossing
- Rapid weather changes including snowfall or rain
- Cold nights with sub-zero temperatures at Nagaru
- Steep descent immediately after Sar Pass
Precautions
- Maintain a slow and steady pace while ascending.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol before and during the trek.
- Wear layered clothing and waterproof outerwear.
- Use trekking poles on snow and steep descents.
- Follow the trek leader closely while crossing snowfields.
Emergency
The nearest major medical facilities are in Kasol and Bhuntar. Mobile connectivity becomes unreliable after Grahan. Trek leaders carry first-aid kits, oxygen cylinders and evacuation protocols for emergencies.
Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sar Pass Trek suitable for beginners?expand_more
What is the best time to do the Sar Pass Trek?expand_more
How do I reach the Sar Pass Trek starting point from Delhi?expand_more
Will I find snow on the Sar Pass Trek?expand_more
Do I need a permit for the Sar Pass Trek?expand_more
How difficult is the Sar Pass Trek compared to Kedarkantha Trek?expand_more
How cold does it get on the Sar Pass Trek?expand_more