Price:₹15,000.00
Thamsar Pass Trek: A Soulful Journey Through Himachal’s Best Waterfall Trek
The Thamsar Pass Trek is located in the shadowed upper reaches of the Kangra Valley, which is known as one of the most popular waterfall treks in Himachal Pradesh. The trek begins in Rajgundha village, which serves as the starting point for the Thamsar Pass Trek.
The journey to the impressive altitude of 15,748 ft Thamsar summit demands the full attention of its travelers. The trail ascends methodically past cascading waterfalls such as Jhodi, which pour over darkened cliff faces, through meadows adorned with indigenous wildflowers, and across frigid stream crossings. Nature has meticulously arranged elements to engage every sense.
Thamsar Pass offers comparable exhilaration with noticeably reduced foot traffic and dramatic environmental contrasts to adventure enthusiasts who are familiar with the winter challenges of the treks, such as Sar Pass, Pin Parvati Pass, etc.
As you cross the tree line, snow and cascading waterfalls become the dominant highlight of the Thamsar Pass trek. The final approach to the pass requires a strenuous climb across snowfields and unstable scree, where each step represents a hard-won achievement. The summit’s reward is immediate, a position atop a vast white saddle, encircled by an amphitheater of serrated Himalayan peaks, where the atmosphere is notably thinner, purer, and more still than at lower elevations.
The adventure continues beyond the Thamsar summit. During the descent, the pathway transforms into natural recreational terrain. As snow conditions soften, trekkers often navigate certain slopes through controlled sliding, experiencing moments of spontaneous joy generated by uninhibited movement in this mountain environment.
From Rajgundha to Thamsar summit and back to the Bir Billing drop point, the Thamsar Pass trek difficulty level transcends as a moderate to difficult trek. This trek represents an immersion into nature’s more primal rhythms punctuated by glacial winds, resonant waterfalls, and a profound silence that exists exclusively in the high-altitude wilderness of Himachal Pradesh.
Who Can Do the Thamsar Pass Trek?
- Age Limit: Ideal for ages 15 to 62. Those outside this range may still join if they are fit and experienced. Minors must be accompanied by adults.
- Trekking Experience: Not for beginners. Trekkers must have prior experience with high-altitude or multi-day treks.
- Required Fitness Level: Good physical condition is essential. Trekkers should be able to walk 6–8 hours a day with a backpack and handle steep ascents.
- Mental Readiness: The Thamsar Pass trek is physically and mentally challenging. You must be prepared for harsh weather, remote conditions, and basic facilities.
- Acclimatization Ability: The trek reaches 4,800 meters, so previous exposure to high altitudes and proper acclimatization are important.
Why should you do the Thamsar Pass Trek?
The Thamsar Pass Trek is more than just a hike, it’s an immersive journey through one of Himachal’s most dramatic and lesser-traveled landscapes. Here are some Thamsar Pass Trek Highlights to explain why this trek deserves a spot on your bucket list:
1. Waterfalls at Every Turn
This trek is renowned for its numerous cascading waterfalls, which add both visual grandeur and a soothing soundtrack to your journey. These natural spectacles, especially the Jhodi waterfall, are tucked into cliff faces and alpine meadows, offering refreshing stops for camping near them.
Pro Tip: Avoid pitching your tents too close to the water source to reduce wildlife encounters.
2. Adventurous Trails
If you crave an offbeat trekking adventure in Himachal, then the Thamsar Pass trail delivers. The route takes you through dense forests, boulder-strewn ascents, icy stream crossings, and snowy mountain slopes. It challenges your stamina and rewards your curiosity with ever-changing terrain and jaw-dropping vistas.
3. The Hidden Gem: Thamsar Lake
One of the trek’s crown jewels is the Thamsar Lake, a pristine glacial body of water that remains frozen most of the time throughout the year. But if you are trekking in June month then you can see its crystal clear water and mirror-like reflections of the surrounding massifs. The isolated beauty of this glacial lake and high-altitude setting makes it a tranquil spot for rest and reflection before the final push to Thamsar Summit.
4. Snowy Slides on the Descent
Coming down from the Thamsar summit, snow conditions often allow for controlled sliding down certain slopes. These thrilling snowy descents provide moments of sheer joy and childlike fun.
5. The Uhl River
The Thamsar Pass trek follows parts of the Uhl River, one of the cleanest rivers in Himachal. The river adds a gentle rhythm to the early stages of the trail, with its crystal-clear waters winding through valleys and villages.
6. Majestic Mountain Peaks
The summit of Thamsar Pass offers an unmatched panoramic view of snow-clad Himalayan peaks like Moon Peak (4,600 m), Indrahar Pass Ridge, Bara Bhangal Range, and Manimahesh Kailash (5,653 m). Standing at around 15748 ft, you’re surrounded by jagged ridgelines and open skies.
7. Paragliding at Bir Billing
Bir Billing is one of the highest paragliding locations in the Himalayas that offers a thrilling finale to the Thamsar Pass Trek. It is known as one of the world’s best paragliding sites, which lets you soar above lush valleys and pine-covered hills. You can experience the majestic Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh from the sky. It’s a perfect blend of adventure, freedom, and breathtaking aerial views.
Pro Tip: If you have an extra day in your Thamsar Pass Trek Itinerary, then you can take this opportunity to experience the thrill of flying like a bird.
Thamsar Pass Trek Day-by-day Short Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Bir Campsite from Joginder Nagar
Altitude: 5,085 ft | Drive Distance: 14 km | Drive Duration: 30 minutes | Overnight Stay: Campsite at Monkey Mud House, Bir
Day 2: Bir to Plachak Campsite via Rajgundha
Altitude Gain: 5,085 ft → 8,202 ft | Drive Distance: 26 km |Drive Duration: 1 hour | Trek Distance: 5.5 km | Trek Duration: 7–8 hours | Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Overnight Stay: Shared tents | Pick-up Point: Monkey Mud House, Bir
Day 3: Plachak to Panhartu campsite via Jodhi Waterfall
Altitude Gain: 8,202 ft → 11,482 ft | Trek Distance: 7.34 km | Trek Duration: 8–9 hours | Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult | Overnight Stay: Shared tents
Day 4: Panhartu to Thamsar Pass and return to Panhartu
Altitude Gain & Loss: 11,482 ft → 15,748 ft → 11,482 ft | Trek Distance: 10 km (round trip) | Trek Duration: 8–9 hours | Trek Difficulty: Difficult | Overnight Stay: Shared tents
Day 5: Panhartu to Rajgundha, Drive Back to Bir
Altitude Loss: 11,482 ft → 8,202 ft | Trek Distance: 12.5 km | Drive Distance: 26 km | Trek Duration: 6–7 hours | Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult | Drop-off Point: Monkey Mud House, Bir
Thamsar Pass Trek: Post-Trek Travel Guide
Congratulations on completing the Thamsar Pass Trek—a challenging yet rewarding journey through the pristine beauty of Himachal Pradesh. Now that you’ve reached the endpoint of the trek, here’s everything you need to know to navigate your post-trek travel smoothly.
1. Local Transport Options for Thamsar Pass trek
- From Billing: Shared taxis and local buses to Bir, Baijnath, or Palampur.
- From Barot: Buses or taxis to Joginder Nagar, the nearest railway station and transport hub.
2. Nearest Transport Hubs
- Joginder Nagar (50–60 km): Small rail station (narrow gauge).
- Baijnath (55–65 km): Bus services to Dharamshala, Mandi, and Delhi.
- Palampur (70–80 km): Well-connected town with frequent buses and private taxis.
3. Thamsar Pass Trek Transport Options To Major Cities
- Dharamshala (100–110 km): 4 to 5 hrs by taxi/bus.
- Mandi (120 km): 5 to 6 hrs; connect to Chandigarh or Delhi.
- Chandigarh (270–300 km): Overnight travel via bus or private cab.
- Delhi (500 km): Overnight Volvo buses from Palampur or Baijnath.
4. Where to Stay after Thamsar Pass Trek
After days of trekking, a good rest is essential. That’s why I have curated some post-trekking stopovers for the Thamsar Pass trek:
- Bir: A Quiet Tibetan town with great cafes and homestays.
- Palampur: A charming tea town with resorts and scenic views.
- Dharamshala/McLeodGanj: If you want to extend your Himalayan adventure.
5. Optional Add-On Adventures
- Paragliding in Billing – One of the best spots in Asia.
- Tashi Jong Monastery – Near Palampur.
- Trek to Triund – If you’re still craving mountain trails.
Many trekkers find it helpful to spend a couple of quiet days in a peaceful setting like Bir, Barot, or Dharamkot, allowing for reflection, journaling, and rest. The Thamsar Pass may be behind you, but the Himalayas will stay with you.
What is the Difficulty Level of the Thamsar Pass Trek
The Thamsar Pass Trek Difficulty Level is rated moderate to difficult, depending on your prior trekking experience, fitness level, and acclimatization. This high-altitude trek in Himachal Pradesh reaches a maximum elevation of 15,748 ft, which involves steep ascents, glacier crossings, unpredictable mountain weather, and gorgeous waterfalls.
The Thamsar Pass is not a technical trek(doesn’t require mountaineering gear or climbing skills), but it does demand physical endurance, mental resilience, trekking gear, and altitude preparedness. Trekkers should have experience with at least one high-altitude trek above 12,000 ft before attempting Thamsar Pass.
Thamsar Pass Trek Day-wise Altitude
Here is the list of altitudes we are going to cover per day in the Thamsar Pass Trek:
| Day | Destinations | Altitude Gain & Loss | Driving/Trekking Hours |
| 1 | Arrive at Bir Campsite | Altitude: 5,085 ft | 30 minutes of driving |
| 2 | Bir → Plachak Campsite | Gain: 5,085 ft → 8,202 ft | 7 to 8 hours of trekking |
| 3 | Plachak → Panhartu via Jhodi Waterfall | Gain: 8,202 ft → 11,482 ft | 8 to 9 hours of trekking |
| 4 | Panhartu → Thamsar Pass → Return to Panhartu | Gain & Loss: 11,482 ft → 15,748 ft → 11,482 ft | 8 to 9 hours of trekking |
| 5 | Panhartu → Rajgundha → Drive to Bir | Loss: 11,482 ft → 8,202 ft | 6 to 7 hours of trekking + Driving to Bir Drop location |
Key Difficulty Factors of Thamsar Pass Trek
- High Altitude: Thamsar Pass trek is located at a maximum altitude of 15,748 ft. Significant gain in a short duration increases the risk of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS). That’s why proper acclimatization and hydration are crucial for this trek.
- Long Trekking Hours: Daily walks range between 7 to 9 hours, often on rugged trails, boulder sections, and sometimes snow patches.
- Thamsar Pass Trek Weather: The Night temperature of Thamsar Pass can drop below freezing point, especially at higher camps like Panhartu. The Thamsar Pass section is exposed to strong winds and potential snowfall even in summer.
- Glacier & River Crossings: Includes walking over glacier fields, stream crossings, and multiple landslide zones, which require balance, confidence, and a professional trek leader.
- Remote Terrain: Once you cross Plachak, you’re in a remote region with no road access until Rajgundha. That requires self-sufficiency and readiness for limited resources.
Is the Thamsar Pass Trek Safe for Me?
The Thamsar Pass Trek is generally safe for individuals who have prior experience trekking at elevations above 10,000 to 12,000 feet. You must have a good level of physical fitness and cardiovascular endurance to be able to walk 7 to 8 hours of average walking distance across challenging terrain with a trekking backpack. Make sure you are trekking under the guidance of a professional trek leader, follow proper acclimatization protocols, and stay consistently hydrated to improve safety and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
What are the Emergency Exit Options on the Thamsar Pass Trek?
While the Thamsar Pass Trek takes you through remote and rugged terrain, there are some basic emergency exit strategies in place. If an emergency arises before crossing the Thamsar Pass, trekkers can descend back to Plachak or Lohardi, typically with the assistance of porters or guides familiar with the route. Communication can be a challenge in higher regions, but satellite phones or walkie-talkie connections may be available near lower camps, and guides often carry emergency communication tools to coordinate help if needed. In extreme cases, helicopter evacuation is possible, though it is rare and entirely dependent on weather conditions and visibility.
Pro Tip: Always trek with a certified guide or registered trekking agency, as they are well-equipped with knowledge of emergency protocols, alternate routes, and contingency plans to ensure your safety.
Nearest Hospitals to the Thamsar Pass Trek
Primary Healthcare Options:
Baijnath Civil Hospital: 60 km from Bir.
Joginder Nagar Hospital: For general treatment and minor emergencies.
Advanced Medical Care
Tanda Medical College (Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Kangra): 100 km from Bir, a tertiary care center.
Palampur Rotary Hospital: Offers good facilities and is closer than Tanda.
How Himalayan Hikers Ensures Your Safety on the Thamsar Pass Trek
Trekker’s safety is the cornerstone of every trek we organize at Himalayan Hikers, and the Thamsar Pass Trek is no exception. Trekking at high altitudes comes with inherent risks, and our job is to minimize those risks through careful planning, expert guidance, and responsive support throughout your journey.
Expert Leadership in the Mountains
Every trek is led by experienced professionals who are not only certified in mountaineering and high-altitude trekking but also trained in wilderness first aid and emergency response. Their deep familiarity with the terrain ensures that you’re in capable hands every step of the way.
Altitude-Ready Itineraries
Our itinerary is carefully crafted with acclimatization in mind. Gradual altitude gain and scheduled rest points are built into the plan to give your body time to adjust to high altitude and reduce the chances of altitude sickness.
Daily Health Checks & Medical Support
Your well-being is monitored daily through basic health assessments, including oxygen saturation checks using pulse oximeters. Our team carries a full high-altitude medical kit, oxygen cylinders, and emergency medication for altitude-related issues.
Emergency Response & Evacuation Support
Should a serious situation arise, we’re prepared with local evacuation contacts and access to transport (by mule or vehicle). Our team is trained to respond calmly and efficiently to ensure a quick evacuation when needed.
Pre-Trek Safety Sessions
Before the trek begins, we hold detailed safety briefings and conduct equipment checks to make sure everyone is adequately equipped and mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.
Constant Weather Surveillance
We continuously monitor weather conditions during the trek. If there’s a risk of snowstorms, heavy rain, or landslides, we adjust the route or schedule to keep the group out of harm’s way.
Smaller Groups, Better Care
We believe in trekking in smaller groups. This allows our guides to give more personal attention, respond to individual needs quickly, and maintain better control of the group in challenging sections.
What is the best time to visit the Thamsar Pass Trek?
The ideal time to do the Thamsar Pass Trek is during the late summer and early autumn months, when the weather is relatively stable, the trails are accessible, and the beauty of scenery is at its peak. Specifically, June and September are considered the best months for this trek.
Pro Tip: The monsoon (July–August) and winter (November–April) months are not recommended due to high risks associated with heavy rain, snowfall, trail blockages, and poor visibility.
Summer: May to June
- Day/Night Temperatures: Day: 12°C to 18°C and Night: 0°C to 3°C
- Weather: Clear to partly cloudy skies with a chance of late spring snowfall at higher elevations. Snow melts progressively throughout June, improving trail access.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult – Due to lingering snow at high passes, river crossings, and slippery terrain.
- Warm Layers Needed: 4 to 5 layers, including thermal inners, fleece, down jacket, and windproof outer shell.
Why Do Thamsar Pass Trek in June?
The best time for the Thamsar Pass trek is June. This is the time when it offers a beautiful blend of spring snowfields and fresh greenery. You can see tiny bright yellow flowers lurking up from the corners of the stones. And cascading waterfalls can be heard from hundreds of meters away. You can try coming in May month but most of the trail is covered with thick sheets of snow or frozen ice. That requires highly experienced trekkers to cross these challenging sections of the Thamsar Pass trek.
Thamsar Pass Trek Weather conditions are more stable in June than in May, and the trekking routes become fully operational by June. It’s a perfect month for those who enjoy snow trekking with a moderate challenge and want to witness the Himalayan landscape in transition from winter to summer.
Autumn: September to October
- Day/Night Temperatures: Day: 12°C to 16°C and Night: -2°C to 4°C
- Weather: Clear skies, crisp air, and dry trails. Post-monsoon freshness with golden alpine foliage and crystal-clear views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges.
- Thamsar Pass Trek Difficulty: The post-monsoon months(September to October) ease up the difficulty level of the Thamsar Pass to a Moderate level of difficulty. September is the highly recommended month for the Thamsar Pass Trek in the Autumn season.
- Warm Layers Needed: 4 to 5 layers, including thermals, an insulated jacket, and a windproof outer shell.
Why Do Thamsar Pass Trek in September?
September is arguably the best month for the Thamsar Pass Trek. The monsoon has cleared, leaving behind vibrant meadows, flowing streams, and sharp mountain views. The trail is stable, and the risk of rain or snow is minimal, offering well-defined trails and crystal clear blue sky. This time is best for those who are trying to level up their trekking skills from the ‘Moderate’ to the ‘Difficult’ level or prefer dry and scenic trekking conditions.
Monsoon (July–August) & Winter (November–April) – Not Recommended
During the monsoon months (July and August), the region faces frequent landslides, slippery trails, leech infestation, and reduced visibility. The trail becomes dangerous, especially near river crossings and steep ascents.
In winter (November to April), the entire trail, especially above 10,000 ft, is buried under deep snow, making the pass inaccessible. Thamsar Pass Trek Temperatures can drop significantly, and the risk of avalanches, frostbite, and hypothermia is high, even for expert mountaineers.
Overall, plan your Thamsar Pass Trek in June if you enjoy snow and a bit of challenge, or September if you prefer clear skies, dry trails, and expansive mountain views. Both months offer a rich and safe Himalayan trekking experience.
Thamsar Pass Trek – Month-wise Weather and Temperature Guide
| Month | Temperature Range | Trail Condition | Recommendation | Special Notes |
| May | 12°C to 0°C | Snow-covered above 10,000 ft, slippery | For experienced trekkers only | High snow presence at the pass; chances of snowfall |
| June | 15°C to 3°C | Melting snow, clear but wet in patches | Good time to trek with proper gear | Stunning snow-glacier views, and river crossings can be tricky |
| July | 18°C to 6°C | Lush but muddy, risk of rain and landslides | Not recommended during peak monsoon | Leeches in forested areas, frequent weather disruptions |
| August | 18°C to 7°C | Similar to July, a very wet trail | Avoid unless experienced and the weather is stable | Flash floods and landslides are common in Himachal during the monsoon |
| September | 16°C to 4°C | Clear skies, dry trail, post-monsoon fresh | Best month to trek | Crystal-clear views, minimal crowds, stable conditions |
| October | 12°C to -2°C | Cold, dry, early snow is possible | Very good for seasoned trekkers | Beautiful autumn colors, except freezing nights |
| November | 8°C to -6°C | Snow buildup begins, trail becomes icy | Not advised unless fully prepared | Early winter, most operators close the route mid-month |
| December–April | Sub-zero to -15°C or lower | Snow buildup begins, trail becomes icy | Trek closed due to winter conditions | Deep snow covers the Pass and campsites; high risk of avalanches |
How to reach the Thamsar Pass trek
To begin your journey to the Thamsar Pass Trek, you’ll first need to reach the designated Thamsar Pass Trek pickup point in Bir, followed by a drive to the Rajgundha base camp (or the starting trailhead). Here’s a step-by-step Thamsar Pass travel guide:
1. Reach Bir (Monkey Mud House & Glamps) – Thamsar Pass trek Pickup Point
Your trek begins from Bir Billing, a small and scenic village in Himachal Pradesh known for paragliding and its peaceful atmosphere. The designated pickup point for the Thamsar Pass Trek is usually Monkey Mud House & Glamps, a popular accommodation and meetup spot in Bir.
2. How to Reach Rajgundha Base Camp from Bir
From Bir, Himalayan Hikers or your trekking organizers will arrange a jeep ride to Rajgundha, which serves as the base camp or nearby start point for the Thamsar Pass Trek.
- Distance: Approx. 35 km.
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours (includes off-road sections).
- Road Condition: Mix of tarred and rough mountain roads; 4×4 recommended.
The drive offers spectacular views and ends near Bir Billing, depending on the trail route chosen by your trek leader.
3. How to Reach Bir (Monkey Mud House & Glamps) from Delhi
You can reach Bir from Delhi via air, train, or road. Here’s how:
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport (Dharamshala), about 65 km from Bir.
- From Airport to Bir: Hire a taxi or take a local bus (2 to 3 hours).
- Flight Connectivity: Regular flights from Delhi to Kangra Airport.
Pro Tip: Book early morning flights to ensure a same-day transfer to Bir.
By Train
- Nearest Railhead: Pathankot Railway Station (140 km from Bir).
- Further Travel: Take a toy train to Ahju or drive to Bir via Baijnath.
- Train Connectivity: Well-connected with Delhi, Amritsar, and Jammu.
Pro Tip: The Thamsar Pass Trek route by train is scenic but time-consuming. Choose this mode of transportation if you’re looking for a slow travel experience.
By Road
- Delhi to Bir Distance: 520 km
- Travel Time: 11 to 13 hours
- Best Option: Overnight Volvo or HRTC bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Baijnath or Bir Road.
Pro Tip: You can take a local taxi or shared cab from Baijnath to reach Monkey Mud House & Glamps.
Mobile Connectivity and ATMs for Thamsar Pass Trek
Staying connected and managing cash during a high-altitude trek like Thamsar Pass requires a bit of planning. Here’s what you need to know about mobile networks and ATM availability on the route:
ATM Availability
Last Reliable ATMs:
Bir, Baijnath, and Jogindar Nagar are the last places where you’ll find functional ATMs (State Bank of India, HDFC, PNB).
Pro Tip: Withdraw cash in Baijnath as ATMs in Bir may occasionally run out of cash or be offline due to network issues.
No ATMs beyond Bir: Once you start the trek, there are no ATMs in Rajgundha, Plachak, or anywhere along the trail. Carry enough cash for your entire journey before leaving Bir.
Mobile Network Connectivity
- Bir Billing: Excellent mobile coverage for Jio, Airtel, and BSNL. Internet and call services work well here.
- Rajgundha and Plachak Campsites: BSNL may work in short bursts. Jio and Airtel are generally patchy or non-functional.
- Higher Camps (Panhartu and Thamsar Pass): This region is completely out of network range.
- Emergency Communication: Trek leaders usually carry walkie-talkies or satellite phones for emergency use. Please do not rely on mobile phones for safety communication above the tree line.
Pro Tips:
- Inform family or friends about limited connectivity in advance.
- Put your phone on airplane mode to save battery during the trek.
- Carry a power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh recommended).
- Keep a list of emergency contacts written down and don’t rely solely on your phone.
How to Prepare for the Thamsar Pass Trek
The Thamsar Pass Trek is a challenging, high-altitude journey that demands both physical and mental readiness. To fully enjoy the trek and complete it safely, it’s important to prepare thoroughly in these five key areas:
1. Physical Fitness
The trail includes long trekking days, steep ascents, and high-altitude terrain, often above 12,000 ft. Good cardiovascular stamina, core strength, and muscular endurance are essential. The Thamsar Pass trek itinerary involves 5 to 7 hours of walking every day. Though the trails are well-marked, they are often bumpy and include steep uphill sections, which may affect your stamina. You can overcome your physical limitation with a 6-week training program that you can begin about 2 months before you do the Thamsar Pass trek. Here’s what your 6-week fitness routine should include:
| Week | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday |
| 1 | Start your morning with some Pranayam and then go for a 2.5 to 3 km walk | Morning Pranayama + Strength Training | Morning Pranayama + 2 km walk + 1 jog 1.5 km walk | Morning Pranayam + Today is your free day | Morning Pranayam + Strength Training | Morning Pranayam + 4.5 km walk/jog | Morning Pranayam + 4.5 km walk/jog |
| 2 | Morning Pranayam + 1.5 km walk + 2 km jog + 2 km walk | Morning Pranayam + Strength Training | Morning Pranayam + 3.5 km walk/jog | Morning Pranayam + Today is your free day | Morning Pranayam + Strength Training | Morning Pranayam + 5 km walk/jog | Morning Pranayam + 5 km walk/jog |
| 3 | Morning Pranayam + 1 km walk + 3 km walk/jog + 2 km walk | Morning Pranayam + Strength Training | Morning Pranayam + 1 minute fast run + 1.5 walk + 1 minute 30 seconds fast run + 1.5 km walk 1 minute hard run | Morning Pranayam + Today is your free day | Morning Pranayam + Strength Training | Morning Pranayam + 5 km walk/jog | Morning Pranayam + 5 km walk/jog |
| 4 | Morning Pranayam + 1 km walk + 3 km walk/jog + 2 km walk | Morning Pranayam + Strength Training | Morning Pranayam + 4 km run | Morning Pranayam + Today is your free day | Morning Pranayam + Strength Training | Morning Pranayam + 6 km jog/run | Morning Pranayam + 6 km jog/run |
| 5 | Morning Pranayam + 5.5 km run | Morning Pranayam + Strength Training | Morning Pranayam + 5.5 km run | Morning Pranayam + Today is your free day | Morning Pranayam + Strength Training | Morning Pranayam + 6.5 walk/run | Morning Pranayam + 6 run |
| 6 | Morning Pranayam + 6.5 walk/run | Morning Pranayam + Strength Training | Morning Pranayam + 6 run | Morning Pranayam + Today is your free day | Morning Pranayam + Strength Training | Morning Pranayam + 6 run | Morning Pranayam + 6 run |
Pro Tip: If you have time, you can skip the Sunday training and go for a long-distance walk or mini day-hike (7–10 km) with a loaded backpack to simulate real trekking conditions. A short 1-day hike around your city/town can help a lot.
2. Essential Gear Checklist
Having the right gear can make the difference between a successful trek and a struggle. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Must-have essential for Thamsar Pass trek:
- 4–5 warm layers (including thermal base layers, fleece, and down jackets).
- Waterproof shell jacket and rain cover for your backpack.
- Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip.
- Trekking poles (highly recommended for balance on ridgelines).
- Personal first-aid kit, toiletries, and sunscreen.
- Daypack (20–30L) for essentials and main backpack (50–60L) if carrying your own gear.
Pro Tip: Don’t overpack. Stick to trek-specific essentials and avoid cotton clothing, because they take a long time to dry. We have created a detailed packing list for Thamsar Pass Trek that you can access in the Things to Take section.
3. Timing Your Trek
Choose the right season for your trek. You can pick June (snowy, scenic, moderate challenge) or September (clear, dry, stable weather). Avoid the monsoon and winter months as trails can become dangerous or inaccessible.
Pro Tip: Plan your training schedule accordingly so that you’re at peak fitness when your trek begins.
4. Travel & Logistics
- Book your travel to Bir in advance—especially in peak season.
- Confirm pickup location (usually Monkey Mud House & Glamps) and time with your trekking agency.
- Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs are not available once you leave Bir.
- Print or download ID copies, permits, and tickets in case of network issues.
- Label your bags and double-check your packing list before departure.
5. Mental Preparation
High-altitude treks are as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Be prepared for:
- Long, exhausting days with no network.
- Cold, windy weather and unpredictable conditions.
- Basic accommodations (tents, no showers).
- Letting go of comfort zones and embracing simplicity.
Pro Tip: Go in with a positive, adaptable mindset. Stay calm, listen to your trek leader, and support your fellow trekkers because team spirit is key on Himalayan treks.
If You Like Thamsar Pass Trek, You Might Also Like…
If the Thamsar Pass Trek inspired you with its raw beauty, remote trails, and high-altitude adventure, there’s a whole world of exciting treks in Himachal that you can do after Thamsar Pass trek. Here are some treks that offer equally thrilling terrain, dramatic landscapes, and unforgettable memories:
Miyar Valley Trek
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate
- Trek Duration: 7 Days – 6 Nights
- Who Can Do This Trek: Intermediate trekkers looking for solitude and scenic beauty. No extreme technical sections.
Often called the “Valley of Flowers of Himachal,” Miyar is a hidden gem with glacier-fed streams, wildflower meadows, and remote trails near the Zanskar range. It’s ideal for solitude seekers and seasoned trekkers.
Sar Pass Trek
- Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Trek Duration: 5 Days – 4 Nights
- Who Can Do This Trek: Beginners with decent fitness. Ideal as a first Himalayan snow trek.
A great choice for beginners moving toward moderate treks, Sar Pass offers forests, meadows, and a snow-covered pass all in one compact, scenic route from Kasol. Less isolated than Thamsar, but equally charming.
Hampta Pass Trek
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate
- Trek Duration: 5 Days – 4 Nights
- Who Can Do This Trek: Fit beginners and intermediate trekkers. Good first pass trek for those new to high altitudes.
This popular trek connects the green Kullu Valley to the barren Lahaul Valley, offering a stunning contrast in scenery. Easier than Thamsar, it’s perfect for a first high-altitude pass experience.
Rupin Pass Trek
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Trek Duration: 7 Days – 6 Nights
- Who Can Do This Trek: Trekkers with prior experience above 12,000 ft. Strong fitness and mental stamina are required.
A classic crossover trek from Uttarakhand to Himachal, Rupin Pass offers dramatic landscapes, hanging villages, and a thrilling final ascent. It’s challenging and highly rewarding, much like Thamsar.
Kalihani Pass Trek
- Trek Difficulty: Difficult
- Trek Duration: 7 Days – 6 Nights
- Who Can Do This Trek: Experienced trekkers with prior high-altitude exposure (above 13,000 ft). Good stamina and glacier travel skills are recommended.
Located in the Dhauladhar range near Manali, Kalihani Pass is a challenging crossover trek with glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep snowfields. It’s ideal for those looking to push their limits after Thamsar.
Pin Parvati Pass Trek
- Trek Difficulty: Very Difficult
- Trek Duration: 13 Days – 12 Nights
- Who Can Do This Trek: Highly experienced trekkers. Requires endurance, glacier crossing skills, and strong acclimatization.
One of the most demanding and remote treks in Himachal, this high-altitude expedition connects the lush Parvati Valley with the stark, arid beauty of Spiti valley. Expect river crossings, glacier traverses, and surreal landscapes.
| Trek Name | Max Altitude | Duration | Difficulty | Unique Features |
| Kalihani Pass Trek | 4,725 m | 8–10 days | Difficult | Remote crossover to Bara Bhangal, alpine lakes, glaciers |
| Pin Parvati Pass Trek | 5,319 m | 10–12 days | Very Difficult | High-altitude crossover from lush Kullu to arid Spiti |
| Sar Pass Trek | 4,220 m | 4–5 days | Easy to Moderate | Great for beginners, scenic meadows & snow slides |
| Hampta Pass Trek | 4,270 m | 4–6 days | Moderate | Dramatic terrain shift from Kullu to Lahaul |
| Miyar Valley Trek | ~4,500 m | 6–8 days | Moderate | Less-trodden, wide valleys, wildflowers, glacial streams |
| Rupin Pass Trek | 4,650 m | 7–9 days | Moderate to Difficult | Waterfalls, snow bridges, culture-rich Himalayan villages |
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