Charang Valley Trek, Himachal | Trekking Itinerary & Tips

Charang Valley Trek Tour

Region : Himachal Pradesh
Trek Start from : Chail
Trek End at : Manali
Duration : 12-Day (from Delhi)
Max Altitude : 17,200 feet (5,242 meters).
Grade : Difficult
Best Time : Mid May - September

The Charang Valley Trek is an exhilarating journey through the Himalayas, offering a blend of spiritual significance and breathtaking landscapes. Located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, the trek is renowned for its challenging trekking trails, passing through Charang La Pass (17,200 ft), one of the highest trekking routes in the region.

The 5-day Charang Valley trek starts from Thangi and ends at Chitkul Village (the last village on the old Hindustan-Tibet trade route), passing through remote villages, Charang Monastery, and Charang La Pass (17,200 ft). Trekkers witness panoramic views of Kinnaur Kailash (21,325 ft), Raldang Peak (18,041 ft ), and the Indo-Tibetan border, making the Charang Valley trekking tour a must-experience adventure for thrill-seekers.

The trek also holds spiritual significance, as it leads to the Charang Monastery, an ancient Buddhist site revered by locals, adding to the deep cultural and religious value of trekking in Himachal Pradesh. Known for its unpredictable weather, steep ascents, and remote landscapes, the Charang Valley trek in Himachal is ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking a challenging yet rewarding Himalayan expedition.

Trip Highlights

Start your trekking to Charang Valley by crossing Charang La Pass (17,200 ft), one of the highest and most thrilling mountain passes, offering spectacular views of Kinnaur Kailash and Raldang Peak.
Trek through diverse landscapes, from lush meadows and dense forests to glacial streams, transitioning into rugged alpine terrain that makes this trek one of the best trekking destinations in the Himalayas.
Explore Charang Monastery, a significant Buddhist site adorned with prayer flags, ancient scriptures, and Tibetan architecture, reflecting the region’s rich spiritual heritage.
Discover remote Himalayan villages like Thangi and Chitkul, where Kinnauri traditions, wooden houses, and warm hospitality provide an enriching cultural experience.
Witness rare Himalayan wildlife, including blue sheep, snow leopards, and golden eagles, adding an element of adventure to the trek.
Enjoy overnight camping under the stars, surrounded by pristine landscapes and breathtaking night skies.
Experience the fusion of Hindu and Buddhist cultures, passing through monasteries and temples, highlighting the spiritual significance of the region.

Best Time for CCharang Valley Trekking Tour

The Charang Valley Trek, set in the secluded Kinnaur region of Himachal Pradesh, is best explored between June and September, when the weather remains relatively calm and trek-friendly. During the summer months, trekkers can enjoy clear skies and mild temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 10°C to 20°C in the lower altitudes. However, as you gain elevation, nights can turn quite cold, occasionally dipping to 0°C or even lower at high-altitude campsites.

September, in particular, is widely regarded as the most favorable time for this trek. Post-monsoon freshness blankets the valley, with lush landscapes and crisp, clear skies offering unmatched mountain views. Daytime temperatures hover between 5°C and 15°C, while nights can become quite cold, dropping to around -5°C to 2°C, especially near the Charang La Pass. This season strikes the perfect balance between scenic beauty and comfortable trekking conditions.

Itinerary

Day 1 Delhi - Chandigarh - Chail

In the morning drive to Chail via Chandigarh. On arrival check into hotel. At leisure visit the world's highest cricket Pitch at Chail. Here the vegetation is extremely dense of Deodar & Silver fur forest. In the early 19th century, this place was the Private estate of Maharaja of Patiala. Overnight stay in hotel.

Day 2 Chail - Kalpa

On second day, we drive through Kufri, Narkanda and Rampura mainly on metalled roads, through dense forest to reach Kalpa. During this season the fragrance of Apples is enticing and luring enroute. is home to some of the best apple and chilgoza orchards in the world. It also offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the 6000 m high Kinner Kailash range. Overnight in Kalpa. Bon-fire in the evening. Overnight in camp.

Day 3 Kalpa - Lambar

On fourth day of The Charang Trek/Kinner Kailash Parikrama, we drive to Thangi 2966 m (65kms/3hr). This is the starting point of the trek. Trek to Lambar 2896 m in the Northeast direction ascending the height following the rivulet. Overnight in camp.

Day 4 Lambar - Charang

Next destination of trek is Charang, where we reach after 4 hours of trekking. On this route we walk along the rivulet and natural forests. We camp near the stream. Overnight in camp.

Day 5 Charang - Lalanti

We trek uphill in the Charang valley and cover 8 kms in around 6 hours. Lalanti has beautiful meadows with thousands of high altitude flowers. It is a yellow and red vast spread carpet of flowers under an open blue sky with roaring sound of gushing Mountain Rivers adds to the scenic beauty and overall experience. Camp next to stream in Lalanti.

Day 6 Lalanti - Chitkul

We steeply descend to reach Chenab river and then we ascend to reach Bindrabani. On route, we have serene and beautiful views of many virgin peaks, hanging glaciers and towering rocky mountains. Overnight in Bindrabani.

Day 7 Chitkul - Tabo

we drive through cross country landscape initial part of the drive follows the river bed of the Sutlej river, but as we proceed ahead the unmetalled stretch of road starts winding up amidst the boulders. From the top there are visible some interesting views of the satellite of snow covered peaks. Overnight at camp in Tabo.

Day 8 Tabo

We visit the Dhankar (3870 m) & Tabo Monasteries (3050 m). Dhankar Gompa is app. 40 Kms from the camp location. It rests high over the valley and is a stupendous example of local architecture. Dhankar is a repository of Buddhist scriptures in the Bhoti script. The Tabo monastery is a thousand years old and second in importance only to the Tholing Gompa in Tibet. This is the largest monastic complex in the Spiti region with several caves adorned with fine frescoes.

Day 9 Tabo - Losar

We drive for 5 hours and visit Ki monastery (4116 m) and Kibber village - one of the highest motorable villages in the world. The locals here offer a nice of blend of Hindu and Buddhist cultures. Ki Gompa is a labyrinth of rooms and corridors and at one time acted as a fort. It houses many valuable Thankas.

Day 10 Losar - Manali

We drive over Kunzum Pass 4551 m and Rohtang Pass 3978 m. Reach Manali. Check into hotel.

Day 11 Manali - Delhi

The day at leisure. In the evening drive to Delhi by AC Volvo coach. Overnight journey.

Day 12 Delhi

Arrival at Delhi by morning. On arrival transfer to hotel for relax. In the evening drive to international airport to catch onwards flight.

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FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the route of Charang Valley Trek?

The Charang Valley Trek starts from Thangi Village and passes through Lambar, Shurting, Charang Monastery, Lalanti Base, and Charang La Pass (17,200 ft) before concluding at Chitkul Village, the last inhabited settlement near the Indo-Tibetan border.

What is the maximum altitude of Charang Valley Trek?

The highest point of the trek is Charang La Pass, which stands at 17,200 feet (5,242 meters).

How long is the Charang Valley Trek?

The total trekking distance of Charang Valley Trek is approximately 60 km, covered over 5-6 days.

How difficult is Charang Valley Trek?

The Charang Valley Trek is classified as difficult, requiring high endurance, prior trekking experience, and proper acclimatization due to steep ascents, glaciated tracks, and unpredictable weather.

Can solo trekkers do Charang Valley Trek?

While solo trekking is possible, it is not recommended due to the remote terrain, lack of settlements, and challenging conditions. Hiring a guide or joining a group is advisable for safety.

How is the mobile network or connectivity along the trekking route?

Mobile network coverage is extremely limited or non-existent beyond Thangi Village. Trekkers should carry satellite phones or walkie-talkies for emergency communication.

What is the total duration of the Charang Valley Trek?

The Charang Valley Trek typically lasts 10-12 days, including travel time from Shimla to Chitkul.

What kind of weather should I expect during the Charang Valley Trek?

In summer, the clear skies and pleasant daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C in the lower regions. Nights can still be chilly, especially at higher campsites, where temperatures may drop to 0°C or below. September is considered an ideal month for this trek. The skies are mostly clear, the landscape turns lush after the rains, and temperatures are cool but manageable, ranging from 5°C to 15°C during the day and dropping to -5°C to 2°C at night in higher altitudes.

Is camping allowed en route to Charang Valley Trek?

Yes, camping is allowed at designated sites like Lalanti Base and Charang Monastery, offering breathtaking night skies and bonfire experiences.

Do I need to book the Charang Valley Trek in advance?

Advance booking is highly recommended for Charang Valley Trek, especially for permits, guides, and accommodation in Kalpa and Chitkul.

Can I do Charang Valley Trek without a guide?

While experienced trekkers can attempt it without a guide, it is strongly advised to hire one due to challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and lack of marked trails.

Are any permits required for Charang Valley Trek?

Yes, trekkers need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter restricted areas near the Indo-Tibetan border. These can be obtained from Reckong Peo or Shimla.

What items do I need to bring for Charang Valley Trek?

Warm clothing & layered outfits (temperatures drop significantly).
High-quality trekking boots (for rocky and glaciated terrain).
Sleeping bag & tent (for camping nights).
Energy snacks & hydration packs (to maintain stamina).
First-aid kit & altitude sickness medication (essential for high-altitude trekking).
Navigation tools (GPS, maps, or compass).
Trekking poles (for stability on steep ascents).