You will need to arrive at the group hotel in Delhi no later than 1400hrs, where you will meet the leadership team and your trekking colleagues and receive a full safety briefing. In the evening, we will take the overnight sleeper train from Delhi to the north of the India. (D)
Accommodation: Overnight on train in air-conditioned sleeper carriage
Arriving in to Chakki Bank train station in the early hours by train, you will transfer to Bir by road (approx. 4hrs) stopping en route for breakfast, and settle into your first camp where you will receive a comprehensive safety briefing for the days ahead.
Upon arrival in Bir, you will enjoy an orientation walk that will provide you with a fantastic introduction to the area, famous for its Buddhist monasteries and artwork. If you're lucky, you may witness an enchanting 'puja' (act of worship) with chanting and prayers in this sacred area. In the evening, you will receive a full trek briefing around the campfire from your expedition leaders, followed by a traditional Indian mountain dinner served in a local style with a delicious array of dishes. (B,L,D)
Accommodation: Bir Campground
After a short transfer (15mins) to the start of the trek, you will begin the hike at Mangroliar. This remains one of the best places to experience the unique and colourful kingdom of the Himalayas. As the area is seldom visited, the route is pristine and unspoilt. Today's route takes you through ancient forests and along the ridgeline to Sherabling Monastery, where you will marvel at the impressive three-story tall gold-plated Buddha. As you trek back to camp, you may be lucky enough to witness a spectacular Himalayan sunset as the sun slowly dips behind the horizon. (B,L,D). Elevation: +/-330m
Accommodation: Bir Campground
Setting off from the camp early, you will follow mountain routes up through rhododendron forests and oak woodlands to reach an amazing Himalayan pass with great views surrounding you at 2,400m above sea level. Today's route is very demanding, with steep inclines, but you will be rewarded by the spectacular views as the whole valley stretches out in front of you and you can trace the route you have walked so far.
As you descend towards Majaj, keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of the diverse Himalayan wildlife, including the Himalayan Griffon Vulture and the Golden Eagle. You may also see signs of leopards and pumas. At the end of the day, you will camp beside a beautiful river where you will be able to swap tales about your day's experiences over dinner. As the sun sets and the night draws in, the shining stars will be a sight to behold and treasure. (B,L,D). Elevation + 1,000m/-750m
Accommodation: River Camp
Today will include a climb to the highest point of the trek. Leaving camp early, set off along a track frequented by shepherds and locals, heading up to the Sun Pass (2,700m) to soak up the incredible scenery. Passing through local villages, you may have the chance to see honey being made in the traditional way. Follow a small mountain stream, where you will stop for a well-deserved water and snack break.
The trail continues through the shaded forest towards the Sun Pass. From here traverse further upwards to Surya Pass (2,700m). Your route takes you through the sub alpine forests, uphill and away from the Uhl River. The area is well known for its diverse Himalayan wildlife and birdlife, including the Himalayan griffon vulture, Thar, Monal, Golden Eagle and the Lammergeier. The lucky few may see Musk Deer, Forest Leopard, Puma and Himalayan Black and Brown Bear. Monkeys may also amuse and join us on parts of our journey.
Today the trek offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Shivalik Mountains and the plains towards the Punjab. Finish the day by descending back down to the river camp for dinner and an evening around the campfire whilst looking out for shooting stars. (B,L,D). Elevation: +/-1,000m
Accommodation: River Camp
Today’s trek will start with a fairly steep climb towards an ancient shepherd's village with just a handful of houses which are deserted in the winter months. We follow the Uhl River as we climb higher into the mountains. Witness local mountain villages where their lifestyle has largely remained unchanged for centuries.
Reach to one of the last quiet villages of the valley of Droti, where villagers return after the winter months, as the snow melts and spring returns.
The high ranges today will surround you throughout the day with spectacular panoramic views of the Shivalik Mountains and the mighty snow-capped Dhauladhar range with their towering peaks including Mun (4,610m), Riflehorn (4,400m), Arthur's Seat (4,525m) and many more. We climb to the hidden goddess temple, belonging to one of the ancient 7 sister goddesses that protect and live in the mountains.
The mountain priest will come and make a special blessing here before we continue on to our last pass towards Billing, the world’s best paragliding spot. We celebrate our journey as we reach our final trekking destination and see the paragliders float through the sky as we reflect on our amazing trek and journey.
Transfer back to base camp for a well-deserved celebration to mark the end of an amazing challenge. (B,L,D) Elevation: +1000/-300m. Accommodation: Bir Campground
Today will involve a leisurely morning and your last chance to explore Bir before transferring to the train station for your overnight sleeper train to Delhi.
There will be morning yoga, workshops and talks and our interesting mela with local artisans. (B,L,D)
Accommodation: Overnight air-conditioned sleeper train
Today we arrive into Delhi and then it’s time to say goodbye to India (if you are not extending your stay).
You can then make your own way back to the airport for your onward journey home. Flights should not be booked departing before 1230hrs. (B)
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