PriceNote – Listed Price & Customisation Rules:
The listed trek price applies to our fixed departures for the specified itinerary. Trek fees including any add-ons for customized groups may vary based on your preferences, ensuring every adventure is tailored to your needs.
Group Booking Offer:
For groups of 8 or more booking together, the trek fee for 1 participant will be waived as a token to encourage shared adventures.
Scholarship for Kids:
Children under 15 years receive a 30% discount on the trek price, making it easier for families to explore the Himalayas together.
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Transport Price Note:
The transport price mentioned is only an indicative estimate per person, assuming a small vehicle shared by at least 4 participants. Fewer participants → cost rises; More participants → cost decreases.
Transport Selection During Booking:
Selecting transport during booking informs us of your preference. No payment is collected at booking.
Final Cost & Payment:
Final transport cost will be communicated before departure and to be paid directly to the cab driver.
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Itinerary Note:
This itinerary represents the most updated plan, but minor adjustments may occur due to operational needs or mountain conditions.
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Terms & Conditions
Trekking is an adventurous activity that inherently involves a variety of risks and uncertainties. By choosing to trek with Planethimalayas, I acknowledge and accept the following potential hazards:
Natural Threats:
Unpredictable Weather: I understand there is always a possibility of facing sudden rain, cloudbursts, flash floods, or Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), either during the trek or at the campsite. Harsh weather conditions such as hailstorms, thunderstorms, lightning, high-altitude winds, and abrupt temperature drops can not only affect comfort but may also lead to the cancellation of the trek without prior notice.
Wildlife Encounters: Trekking trails may intersect with habitats of wild animals including bears, snakes, and a range of insects or arthropods. These encounters pose serious risks.
Flora Exposure: Some plant species in the trekking regions may be toxic or harmful upon contact or ingestion. I understand that interacting with such vegetation could result in serious consequences.
Natural Calamities: Mountainous terrains are prone to landslides, avalanches, earthquakes, and whiteouts — all of which could significantly endanger life and disrupt the trek.
Altitude and Injury Risks:
High-altitude conditions can lead to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).
I understand that trekking surfaces are uneven and potentially slippery. This increases the chance of falls, slips, or injuries — including accidental drowning.
Misuse or malfunctioning of trekking gear (e.g., trekking poles, safety equipment) may also result in accidents.
Accidents during the trek could cause emotional or physical trauma, temporary or permanent disabilities, or even paralysis.
Injuries caused by fellow trekkers or locals are also possible.
I acknowledge that sun exposure, extreme cold, or environmental factors may cause health issues such as sunburn, frostbite, hypothermia, dehydration, heatstroke, chilblains, or hypoxia.
Medical Emergencies:
Trekking routes often lack access to nearby hospitals or clinics. I understand that medical attention may be delayed or unavailable.
I am aware that evacuation due to an emergency may be logistically difficult and time-consuming.
Additional Concerns:
Civil or Political Disturbance: Unrest due to protests, strikes, conflicts, or terrorism may impact trek safety.
Equipment Failures: I accept that gear failure could lead to difficulties or injuries.
Transportation Disruptions: Travel to or from the basecamp may be delayed or disrupted due to vehicle failure, cancellations, or roadblocks.
Disease Exposure: Trekking in unfamiliar regions may expose me to infectious diseases or health risks.
By agreeing to this document, I confirm:
I am fully aware of the above-mentioned risks.
I am voluntarily participating in the trek.
I agree to follow all safety protocols and guidance provided by Planethimalayas staff.
I will take full responsibility for any gear or equipment used during the trek.
I acknowledge that while Planethimalayas’ staff are trained and experienced, they are human and cannot foresee or prevent every risk.
My safety and well-being ultimately remain my responsibility.
I take full ownership of my physical readiness for the trek, based on the eligibility and fitness standards set by Planethimalayas.
Health Statement:
I certify that I am physically and mentally fit.
I have no known medical conditions that could restrict me from undertaking the trek.
No medical professional has advised me against participating in this activity.
Legal Liability:
I confirm that I am solely accountable for my safety throughout the trek.
I voluntarily assume all known and unknown risks involved.
Planethimalayas is not liable for any injuries, illnesses, or losses sustained during or after the trek.
I understand that Planethimalayas will not cover any medical costs I may incur.
Should my actions cause harm or inconvenience to another person or damage to property — whether intentionally or by accident — I agree to compensate Planethimalayas for any resulting expenses. This includes costs related to repairs, medical treatments, or legal actions.
I am aware that high-altitude trekking may cause symptoms related to oxygen deprivation and altitude sickness. If the trek leader believes it is unsafe for me to continue, I accept their decision to descend me to a safer altitude.
I understand that health checks (oxygen level, pulse, blood pressure) will be conducted regularly at various camps. Based on these assessments, Planethimalayas reserves the right to disallow me from proceeding further if my health metrics fall below acceptable standards. These standards are available with trek leaders.
I am aware that the terrain will involve challenging and unpredictable conditions including steep slopes, snow-covered paths, and rocky trails.
If the trek leader concludes that I am physically unable to complete the trek without constant support, I understand that I may be turned around.
Alcohol, tobacco, and any recreational drugs are strictly banned throughout the trek. Consumption of such substances may result in immediate removal from the trek and basecamp.
I have read and fully understood all the terms stated in this agreement. I consent to the conditions knowing the legal impact it may have. Even if any clause here is declared unenforceable, the remainder shall remain valid.
I acknowledge that the trek cost was calculated assuming my full consent to these terms. Without this agreement, Planethimalayas would not be able to offer the trek services.
I agree that my electronic or digital acceptance of this agreement shall hold the same validity as a signed physical document.
It is solely my duty to carry all necessary documents related to this trek (passport, ID, permits, visa, etc.). Planethimalayas will not be held responsible if I fail to present these documents when required.
Planethimalayas also disclaims liability in case of loss, theft, or damage to any personal identification or travel documents.
I voluntarily consent to provide my Aadhaar number for use by Planethimalayas in matters related strictly to identity verification, trek permit processing, and administrative formalities. This data will be used solely for these purposes in accordance with Indian law. I understand I may withdraw this consent prior to its usage by submitting written notice.
I agree to abide by the cancellation policy of Planethimalayas as outlined in the official document.
🩺 Basic Medical Support – On-trek first aid and support for minor medical issues
👥 Support Staff – Team includes experienced trek leaders, local guides, cooks, and helpers
🎯 Qualified Leadership – Professional trek leader overseeing safety and coordination
❌ Exclusions
🚑 Insurance – Travel or medical insurance is not included
🚨 Emergency Costs – Expenses for evacuation, rescue, or medical treatment are not covered
🎒 Backpack Offloading – Available as an optional add-on at an extra charge
🚗 Travel to/from Base Camp – Transport to the trek base or return is not part of the package unless opted separately
🛍️ Personal Purchases – Items bought on the way (snacks, gifts, souvenirs, etc.) are not included
👕 Personal Trek Gear – Jackets, shoes, walking sticks, or toiletries are not part of the package (can be rented separately)
❗ Anything Not Listed Above – If it’s not mentioned under inclusions, it is not covered by Planethimalayas
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Cancellation & Refunds
At Planethimalayas, we strive to make your trekking experience smooth and transparent. Please read our cancellation policies carefully:
1. Trek Cancellation by Participant
Within 30 days prior to departure: Full refund of trek fees.
Between 30 to 15 days prior to departure: 20% of trek fee will be retained; the remaining amount will be refunded.
Less than 15 days prior to departure or no-show: No refund.
2. Trek Cancellation by Planethimalayas
In the unlikely event that Planethimalayas cancels a trek due to weather, natural disasters, political unrest, or any unforeseen circumstance, we will provide you with the option to join another trek of the same value or issue a full refund.
3. Refund Policy
Refund Method: All approved refunds are issued as vouchers tied to the specific participant's account and can be used for future treks. Direct cash or online refunds are not provided.
4. Rescheduling & Changing Treks
Rescheduling a trek to a different date is free of charge.
Changing to a different trek must be requested at least 30 days prior to departure.
If the selected trek is of higher price, the extra amount must be paid.
If the selected trek is of lower price, the remaining amount will be refunded within 10 days after trek completion.
Requests made within 15 days of departure are handled on a case-by-case basis.
5. Transport & Offloading Bag Add-on Cancellation
Cancellation more than 72 hours prior to departure: Full refund.
Cancellation within 72 hours or post that period: No refund possible.
Important Note: In case of emergencies or rescue operations, any transportation used during such processes will not be considered part of the Transport add-on, and trekkers must bear all costs incurred. It is strongly recommended to purchase proper trek insurance to claim such costs as per your insurance policy.
6. Cancellation Requests
All cancellations must be processed through email only. No other form of communication will be considered official. Our official email address:
info@planethimalayas.com
The Miyar Valley Trek is a rare passage into the true heart of Lahaul — a region that remained hidden from trekkers for decades, shielded behind the long closures of Rohtang Pass. With the opening of the Atal Tunnel, this remote Himalayan world finally became accessible during the monsoon months, when Lahaul transforms into a landscape of colour, water, and life. What lies beyond the tunnel is not just a trek, but an invitation into one of the least explored valleys of the Indian Himalayas.
Miyar Valley rests quietly between the high walls of Zanskar and Chamba, unfolding in a graceful S-shaped stretch that runs for nearly 75 kilometres. It is a valley where distance is not measured in kilometres but in how deeply you step away from civilisation. As you walk along the Miyar Nallah, the trail alternates between forgotten mountain hamlets, vast river-fed meadows, and slopes bursting with alpine flowers — many of them rare Himalayan orchids that bloom freely here, untouched by crowds.
The valley slowly reveals its true scale. Massive walls of rock rise on either side, glaciers spill down from hidden cirques, and the sound of flowing water follows you everywhere. The Miyar Glacier dominates the upper reaches — a colossal river of ice stretching deep toward Kang La, a high pass that once connected traders and shepherds to Zanskar. Near its snout lie serene, blue glacial pools, revered by locals and Buddhists alike, adding a quiet spiritual weight to the landscape.
This trek is also a walk through mountaineering history. Long before trekkers arrived, climbers from across the world came here to test themselves against legendary peaks like Menthosa, the Fortress Peaks, and the Tharang massif. As you move through the valley, these giants stand fully exposed — from base to summit — their rugged faces streaked with colour, ice, and time. In places, memorials quietly remind you of those who never returned, grounding the beauty of the valley in deep respect.
Life in Miyar unfolds gently. River deltas spread across the valley floor, streams braid and merge into the main river, and shepherds move slowly with their herds across open pastures. You cross icy tributaries, balance across glacial flows, and camp beside boulder-strewn basins where mountains loom close and the wind carries stories through the rocks. These are not fleeting moments — they linger.
Culturally, Miyar reflects the soul of Lahaul. Buddhist stupas and Hindu shrines stand close together, prayer flags flutter beside stone temples, and locals carry names drawn from both traditions. This blending of cultures is subtle, lived-in, and deeply authentic — something you don’t observe as a tourist, but experience as a quiet witness passing through.
The Miyar Valley Trek offers no single dramatic summit moment. Instead, it gives you something far rarer — prolonged solitude, untouched landscapes, and a sense of walking through a living Himalayan valley that still belongs to itself. Few trekkers ever make it here. Fewer still truly absorb it. If you find yourself walking these trails, know that you are among the fortunate ones.
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Highlights
✅ One of the most remote and least-crowded long treks in Himachal Pradesh
✅ Endless alpine meadows filled with wildflowers during peak summer
✅ Walk alongside massive glaciers and pristine glacial rivers of the Miyar Valley
✅ Experience ancient Lahauli villages and traditional high-altitude mountain life
✅ Panoramic views of iconic peaks including Mt. Menthosa (6,443 m), Tharang Peak (~6,100 m), Castle Peak (~6,300 m), and the dramatic Never Seen Tower (~6,100 m)
Itinerary
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• Drive distance: ~150 km | Duration: 6–7 hours (from Manali). • Day 1 is the reporting day at Khanjer, the roadhead and base camp for the Miyar Valley Trek. Trekkers can either reach Manali and opt for our shared transport, or make independent arrangements to reach Khanjer directly.
The journey from Manali to Khanjer is a spectacular transition from the green valleys of Kullu to the stark, high-altitude terrain of Lahaul. Leaving Manali early, the route passes through the Atal Tunnel — a dramatic gateway that instantly changes the landscape. On the other side, the Lahaul region opens up with wide valleys, sparse vegetation, and towering brown-grey mountains shaped by wind and ice.
The road follows the Chandra River for a long stretch, cutting through deep gorges and open plains before reaching Udaipur, a culturally rich settlement known for the ancient Mrikula Devi Temple. From Udaipur, the route turns into the quieter Miyar Valley road, climbing steadily along the Miyar Nallah toward Khanjer. The scenery becomes increasingly remote as villages thin out and the sense of isolation grows.
Khanjer is the last motorable village of the valley — a small, stone-built settlement set against steep mountain walls. This is where the trek truly begins. After arrival, trekkers check into the base camp, meet the trek leader, and go through a detailed briefing covering the route, safety protocols, and expectations for the days ahead. The rest of the evening is spent resting, acclimatizing, and preparing for the long journey into the heart of Miyar Valley.
• Trek distance: ~9.2 km | Duration: 4–5 hours | Altitude gain: ~781 ft. • The trek officially begins today from Khanjer, the last motorable village of the Miyar Valley. Leaving the stone houses behind, the trail rises gently through a series of well-defined switchbacks, making for a steady and comfortable ascent. This is an easy–moderate walking day, designed to ease you into the rhythm of long Himalayan distances.
The lower sections of the trail pass directly through cultivated farmland — a rare sight on such a remote trek. From June to September, the valley comes alive with agricultural activity. You’ll walk past neatly arranged plots growing barley, seed potatoes, iceberg lettuce, cauliflowers, apples, and sea buckthorn. Locals also cultivate medicinal plants like kuth (Saussurea lappa) and mannu, plants that have supported mountain communities here for generations. These fertile fields exist thanks to a unique mix of alluvial, hill-type, and meadow soils found in this region.
As you gain height, the valley opens up dramatically. The trail skirts past small village clusters and an unexpected landmark — a flat, grassy patch locals occasionally use as a cricket ground, framed by towering mountains on all sides. It’s a reminder of how life adapts creatively even in the most remote corners of the Himalayas.
Midway through the trek, you pass near Tharang, one of the cultural heart points of the valley. From here, the views expand to reveal Menthosa Peak — Lahaul’s second-highest mountain, often called the crown of Miyar Valley. Its massive, icy walls dominate the skyline, drawing the attention of trekkers and climbers alike. The surrounding steep rock faces in this region have long attracted mountaineers, adding a quiet sense of adventure to the landscape.
The final stretch to Yolling is gentle. The switchbacks ease out, and the trail levels into a wide, open meadow. A clear mountain stream flows nearby, providing a soothing soundtrack as you arrive at camp. Yolling is an expansive, flat grassland — calm, scenic, and perfectly positioned to let your body adapt while offering your first true immersion into the vastness of Miyar Valley.
• Trek distance: ~12 km | Duration: 5–6 hours. • One of the more engaging days on the trek, the walk begins gently before a short descent to a bridge, followed by a steep climb towards Gompa. You pass Gompa Nala, a shepherd’s hut, and the serene Gompa Lake before traversing boulder-strewn sections with mild ups and downs. The trail eventually opens into flat riverbanks offering beach-like walks beside gushing waters. As you move deeper into the valley, dramatic rocky massifs rise around you, the valley widens after every nala, and flower-filled meadows lead you to the beautiful campsite of Zardong.
• Trek distance: ~12.5 km | Duration: 5–6 hours. • The trail largely follows the river, offering long, flat and soothing walks through the heart of the valley. You pass through Chhudong — a vast riverside meadow where the Miyar River flows broad and calm, guiding the route clearly towards Palpu. The campsite at Palpu lies near Castle Peak, with expansive views of the valley, Tharang massif, and on clear days, the crown jewel of Miyar — Mt. Menthosa. An optional extension takes you to Kesar Yon Choo, a stunning meadow dotted with seven icy ponds, beyond which a short boulder walk and stream crossing lead to the snout of the Miyar Glacier. After spending time at the glacier, you retrace your steps back to camp, crossing a couple of streams along the way.
• Trek distance: ~12.5 km | Duration: 5–6 hours. • The day begins from the scenic campsite of Palpu, set beneath Castle Peak with sweeping views of the valley and the imposing Tharang massif. If the skies are clear, Mt. Menthosa often reveals itself in all its grandeur. The trail is largely gentle with minimal altitude gain and loss, making for a relaxed yet immersive walk deeper into the upper Miyar Valley. Wide valley floors, river-side stretches, and the growing sense of remoteness define today’s journey as you gradually make your way to the peaceful campsite at Gompa.
• Trek distance: ~7.5 km | Duration: 4–5 hours. • The trail retraces its way down the valley, staying close to the Miyar River for most of the day. Long, flat walks through the expansive meadows of Chhudong make this a relaxed descent, with the river flowing wide and calm beside you, its waters stretching all the way toward the glacier snout. Beyond Chhudong, the valley narrows and the terrain shifts into boulder sections interspersed with cold stream crossings, including a stream descending from the valley below Never Seen Tower and Castle Peak. The route alternates between gentle riverside stretches and rocky patches before opening out again as you approach the familiar campsite at Tharang.
• Trek distance: ~7.5 km | Duration: 6–7 hours. • The final walk of the trek unfolds through long, dramatic flat stretches as you move towards the Thanpattan region — a landscape so vast and cinematic it often feels straight out of a classic western film. The easy, almost level trail allows time to absorb the grandeur of the Miyar Valley one last time, with wide-open views and a deep sense of completion. Upon reaching Khanjer, the trek concludes. If opted, a vehicle awaits for the return drive to Manali via Udaipur and the Atal Tunnel, a scenic 6-7 hour journey that brings you back from the raw isolation of the valley to the bustle of civilization.
✅Miyar Valley has over 100 mapped glaciers, earning it the title ‘Valley of a Thousand Glaciers’.
✅The valley remains inaccessible for nearly half the year due to heavy snowfall and isolation.
✅Many sections of the trail were historically used by shepherds moving between high summer pastures.
✅Miyar’s wildflower diversity rivals the more famous Valley of Flowers, but sees a fraction of the visitors.
✅The region lies close to the Indo-Tibetan border and remains strategically sensitive.
✅The Miyar Glacier stretches nearly 36 km and climbs all the way to Kang La (17,600 ft), a high-altitude pass that historically connected the Miyar Valley of Lahaul with the Zanskar region.
Map
How to reach
✈️ Air:Nearest Airport: Bhuntar (Kullu). From there, drive to Manali and onward to Udaipur.
🚆 Train:Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar or Chandigarh. Continue by road to Manali → Udaipur.
🛣️ Road:From Manali: ~150 km via Atal Tunnel or Rohtang Pass (seasonal). Roads depend heavily on weather conditions.
🗺️ Travel Tip:Plan buffer days for travel, as landslides and weather delays are common in Lahaul.
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TrekFAQs
The Miyar Valley Trek can be attempted by fit beginners as well as experienced trekkers. While the trail itself is not technically difficult, the long walking days, remote terrain, and river crossings can be physically and mentally demanding. Prior trekking experience is beneficial but not mandatory.
A minimum of 6–8 weeks of physical preparation is recommended. Focus on cardiovascular endurance through running, cycling, or stair climbing, along with leg and core strength training. Practicing long-distance walks on consecutive days will help prepare for the sustained effort required on the trek.
Indian trekkers require local forest permissions, which are arranged by the trek operator. Foreign nationals need an Inner Line Permit due to the valley’s proximity to the Indo-Tibetan border. These permits must be arranged in advance and require valid identification documents.
The trek involves gradual altitude gain, making acclimatization relatively manageable. However, due to the length of the trek and continuous exposure above 12,000 ft, Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) remains a possibility. Proper hydration, slow pacing, and adherence to acclimatization protocols are essential.
Weather in the Miyar Valley is generally stable during the trekking season but can change quickly. Days are pleasant with clear skies, while nights can be cold, especially at higher camps. Occasional rain or snowfall at upper elevations is possible depending on the month.
Yes, the trek involves multiple river and stream crossings, especially near glacier-fed sections. Water levels are usually manageable but can rise during afternoons due to snowmelt. Early starts and proper guidance make these crossings safe.
Mobile network connectivity is available only till Udaipur. Beyond Khanjer, there is no mobile signal throughout the duration of the trek, adding to its remoteness.
The best time to trek in the Miyar Valley is from mid-June to late September. This period offers accessible trails, blooming alpine meadows, and relatively stable weather conditions.
Yes, when undertaken with proper planning and experienced support, the trek is safe. The route is well-defined, and risks are primarily related to weather, river crossings, and altitude, all of which are managed through careful scheduling and acclimatization.
Every journey with us is carefully crafted for a deeply personal mountain experience.
Not Just a Trek — A Journey That Stays With You
Every trail we walk is a carefully chosen path into the heart of the Himalayas — not just to witness their grandeur, but to feel them under your skin and soul. Our treks are designed not as bucket list checkmarks, but as life-affirming journeys. At Planethimalayas, we believe a mountain journey is deeply personal — and that belief runs through everything we do.
Individual Care, Every Step of the Way
We keep our groups small and intimate so we can focus on you — your pace, your concerns, your joy. From pre-trek guidance to trail-side support, our leaders walk with intention, offering safety and attention without intrusion. It’s this deep care that turns strangers into friends and walks into memories.
Built on Genuine Love for the Himalayas
We don’t just operate in the Himalayas — we live and breathe them. From respecting mountain communities to following Leave No Trace ethics, our treks are shaped by humility and care. With Planethimalayas, your trek becomes a way of giving back to the mountains that give us so much.
Why Choose Us
Experience the difference of trekking with genuine mountain experts who truly care.
Trek Leader & Guide
Led by certified mountaineers with wilderness first aid training, ensuring your safety and confidence at every step.
Cook & Support Staff
Our mountain crew comprises local experts who bring unmatched experience, warmth, and deep knowledge of the region.
Small Group Size
We cap our group departures at just 8 trekkers — ensuring individual attention, deeper connections, and better trail discipline.
Safety Standards
From personal well-being to technical preparedness, we maintain the highest safety standards — using certified high-altitude gear and comprehensive safety protocols to ensure a secure and reliable Himalayan experience.
24×7 Online Support
We're always available — before, during, or after your trek. Reach out anytime, and you'll always hear back from a real human.
We Care for the Mountains
We strictly follow Leave No Trace ethics. Limited group sizes and mindful practices help protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.