"The Pin Bhaba Pass Trek is a stunning crossover from the lush green meadows of Kinnaur to the dramatic, barren landscapes of Spiti — a rare Himalayan journey where every step reveals a striking contrast of colors, cultures, and terrains."
Region: Crossover from Bhaba Valley in Kinnaur to Pin Valley in Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
Max Altitude: 16,105 ft (Pin Bhaba Pass)
Start Point: Kafnu (Himachal Pradesh)
End Point: Mudh (Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh)
Best Time: July to mid-September
Trek Grade: Moderate to Difficult
If you’re looking for a trek that offers stark contrasts — from lush green valleys to cold desert landscapes — Pin Bhaba Pass delivers an unforgettable experience. The trek begins in the dense pine forests and apple orchards of Kinnaur and ascends through vibrant meadows full of waterfalls and wildflowers, glacial streams, and alpine terrain before crossing the high-altitude Pin Bhaba Pass into the barren, otherworldly landscapes of Spiti Valley.
This crossover trek stands out for its dramatic scenery changes, thrilling high-altitude pass, and unique cultural shift between the green Bhaba side and the stark Buddhist villages of Spiti.
Highlights
✅ The trek begins in the charming village of Kafnu in the lush Bhaba Valley of Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh
✅ Hike through dense pine forests, vibrant meadows, and glacial streams in the green Kinnaur region
✅ Cross the dramatic Pin Bhaba Pass at 16,105 ft with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains
✅ Experience a stunning transition from the greenery of Bhaba Valley to the barren, high-altitude desert of Spiti
✅ Discover the stark beauty of Pin Valley National Park, home to snow leopards, blue sheep, and rare Himalayan flora
✅ Trek ends in the picturesque village of Mudh in Spiti, a hidden gem of Himachal with ancient Buddhist culture
Itinerary
📅 Day 1: Drive from Shimla to Kafnu (7,880 ft)
– Drive distance: ~200 km | Duration: 7–8 hrs
– Scenic drive along the Sutlej River
– Overnight stay in guesthouse or homestay in Kafnu
📅 Day 2: Trek from Kafnu to Mulling (10,758 ft)
– Trek distance: ~11 km | Duration: 6–7 hrs
– Trail passes through forests, bridges, and Bhaba River
– Camp at the beautiful Mulling meadow beside the stream
📅 Day 3: Trek from Mulling to Kara (11,653 ft)
– Trek distance: ~6 km | Duration: 3–4 hrs
– Gradual ascent through flower-filled valleys and boulder patches
– Kara campsite lies beside a turquoise glacial stream
📅 Day 4: Trek from Kara to Pushtirang (13,474 ft)
– Trek distance: ~5 km | Duration: 3–4 hrs
– Trail climbs steadily to the base camp of the pass
– Acclimatization walk in the evening
📅 Day 5: Cross Pin Bhaba Pass (16,105 ft); descend to Mangrungse (13,474 ft)
– Trek distance: ~12 km | Duration: 8–10 hrs
– Steep climb to the pass; thrilling snow/rock section
– Spectacular 360° views from the top
– Sharp descent into the dramatic Spiti landscape
📅 Day 6: Trek from Mangrungse to Mudh (12,361 ft)
– Trek distance: ~17 km | Duration: 6–7 hrs
– Easy downhill trail along the Pin River
– Arrive at the beautiful village of Mudh in Spiti Valley
– End of trek; overnight stay in a guesthouse
📅 Day 7: Drive from Mudh to Kaza / Manali / Shimla (based on plan)
– Long scenic drive through the Trans-Himalayan landscape
– Optional stay at Kaza or transfer to Manali via Kunzum La and Rohtang Pass
How to reach
🧭 Here’s how you can reach Kafnu from major cities:
✈️ By Air:
Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti) – approx. 200 km from Kafnu
Alternative Airport: Chandigarh Airport – approx. 310 km from Kafnu
From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Rampur Bushahr, then continue onward to Kafnu by local/shared taxi.
🚆 By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station
You can also reach Kalka Railway Station (broad gauge) and take the toy train to Shimla
From Shimla, follow the road route to Kafnu via Rampur
🚌 By Road:
From Shimla (200 km / 7–8 hrs):
Take a bus or shared cab towards Rampur → Tapri → Kafnu
From Chandigarh (310 km / 10–11 hrs):
Drive or take a bus via Shimla and Rampur
Public and private buses run from Shimla to Rampur/Tapri, after which a local cab can be hired for the final stretch to Kafnu
✅ Travel Tip: It’s best to arrive in Shimla a day before the trek starts and stay overnight. Begin your journey to Kafnu early the next morning to avoid delays due to mountain traffic or weather.
💡 Did You Know?
✅ Pin Bhaba Pass is one of the most dramatic crossover treks in Himachal Pradesh, connecting the lush green Bhaba Valley of Kinnaur to the arid cold desert of Spiti.
✅ The pass lies at a staggering 16,105 ft, offering unmatched views of the Pin Valley National Park — home to rare wildlife like snow leopards and Himalayan ibex.
✅ Unlike many Himalayan treks, Pin Bhaba offers two completely contrasting landscapes within a single trek — making it a favorite among seasoned trekkers and photographers.
✅ The trek shares its endpoint with the famous Pin Parvati Pass, though Pin Bhaba is often considered safer and more scenic for those seeking a high-altitude adventure.
✅ Locals believe the trail was once used by ancient traders and shepherds to travel between Kinnaur and Spiti, making it a route steeped in history and culture.