Location: Manali (6,700 ft)

Arrive in Manali (6,700 ft). The day focuses on Active Recovery and physiological preparation.

• Activity: Acclimatization hike to prime the respiratory system.
• Insight: Briefing covers mountain safety and the unique Leave No Trace ethics of the Dhauladhar region.

Route: Dungri to Lama Dugh | Stats: 10 km, 7-8 Hours, 10,000 ft

We ascend through a biological timeline, moving from Coniferous Pine & Oak into high-altitude Walnut and Maple groves.

• Campsite: A serene meadow offering a bird's-eye view of the Kullu Valley.

Route: Lama Dugh to Khanpari Pass (12,000 ft) to Riyali Thach | Stats: 11 km, 7-8 Hours, 11,200 ft

Today we breach the tree line. As we cross Khanpari Pass, the geography of the Pir Panjal and CB Ranges unfolds.

• Viewpoint: Identify the massifs of Deo Tibba and Indrasan looming to the East.

Route: Riyali Thach to Kalihani Base | Stats: 9 km, 6-7 Hours, 13,000 ft

Key Strategy: We start at dawn to cross glacial streams.

• Educational Insight: Glacial melt follows a diurnal cycle; water levels are lowest in the early morning, making river crossings significantly safer.
• Goal: Reach the base of the pass with the intimidating Sanghor Jot (Kalihani) in full view.

Route: Base Camp to Kalihani Pass (15,800 ft) to Base Camp | Stats: 12 km, 8-9 Hours, 15,800 ft

The most demanding day. We navigate Moraines (glacial debris) and permanent Ice Fields.

• The Summit: At the top, look North toward the isolated Bara Bhangal region - a world of ice lakes and towering granite.
• Descent: Careful navigation back to base camp for a hard-earned rest.

Route: Kalihani Base to Dor Nallah | Stats: 15 km, 7-8 Hours, 10,500 ft

We leave the high scree slopes for the Dor Nallah, a narrow gorge that opens into lush, emerald grazing grounds used by Gaddi shepherds for centuries.

Route: Dor Nallah to Mailee | Stats: 8 km, 5-6 Hours, 8,000 ft

A steep descent through a thickening canopy. The air becomes richer in oxygen as we drop back into the temperate forest zone.

• Vista: Enjoy a last light panoramic view of the lower Kullu Valley from our final campsite.

Route: Mailee to Sangchur to Drive to Manali | Stats: 6 km, 30 km Drive

A final descent into the traditional village of Sangchur. We board our vehicles, leaving the wilderness behind but carrying the wisdom of the high passes.