Introduction
Chandrakhani Pass trek takes you to a secluded and picturesque destination nestled in the Himachal Pradesh. Even though it is a 4-day trek, it provides you with the right hustle at some points and turns out to be easy going on another. The trail takes you through some of the off-beat paths at high-altitude which raise the difficulty of the trek. Other than that, Chandrakhani is a pleasing journey.
Like any other trek in the Himalayan region, Chandrakhani is a beautiful trek with a plus point of favourable spot for the base and campsites. Along with pretty views, the journey also indulges deep in the legends and mythological association to the Hindu religion. The valley of Kullu is since recognized as the Valley of Gods and considered sacred.
Chandrakhani Pass Trek makes its base from Manali and goes ahead to merge with Celanti which is a high-altitude alpine meadow that goes through Naggar, Rumsu, and Ganachalani. The journey is mostly an uphill climb from Celanti to reach the highlight of the trek.
This highlight being 3600 m above the sea level, offers you some of the mind-blowing panoramic views of the famous Deo Tibba peak, Pir Panjal ranges and Parvati range of mountains. You can spend some time taking in the other-worldly views of the landscape and then start toward your next stop. You will pass through some of offbeat destinations of Dadru, Malana and Jari on your trek. Afterwards you can take a bus from Jari to reach the hill station of Malana and reminisce in the memory of the trek. For more details about how your day will look like on the trek refer to the itinerary given below.
Day 1: Drive from Manali to Naya Tapru
First you need to reach Ramsu from where your trek begins. You can drive from Manali via Naggar to reach Ramsu or get a shared taxi. Naggar is a quiet little village with a picturesque surrounding and your journey itself becomes entertaining from the drive. You can make a quick pit-stop at Naggar to explore the temples, and indulge in activities like fishing and river rafting in the beautiful surrounding of the mountains. After a short drive you will reach Ramsu and from there start to trek to get to Naya Tapru. After having some snacks you can start your trek and you will need to trek through the dense forest patch that is packed with pine, oak and chestnut trees. Naya Tapru will be your first basecamp where you will retire for the day.
Day 2: Naya Tapru – Chaklani
On the second day. Wake up early to start for your next destination which is Chaklani. You will be aiming for the altitude of 1120 feet which will take about 5 hours to complete. If you are visiting in the winter month or just the start of summer then you can expect the snow showing up in your field of vision from this point. After reaching Chaklani you will pitch your tent and stay overnight under the clear sky.
Day 3: Chaklani to Pulag via Chandrakhani pass
The third day brings in the Chandrakhani pass. We will start with an uphill ascent to Chandrakhani and then descend back to Pulag which is a small hamlet with a stunning view of mountains to die for. The pleasant village is perfect for staying the night in the homestays that are available in the village. Entering the Valley of Gods, Chandrakhani pass, you will see the scenic vistas of the Kullu Valley along with the small settlements in sight from a wide point of view. You can capture some moments over here and just enjoy the company of nature and then return to your homestay in Pulag to have a hot meal along with your friends.
Day 4: Drive from Naggar to Manali
If you missed Naggar on your arriving day then be sure to add it on your departure day if time permits. Naggar castle is one of the tourist hotspots which is a mediaeval stone and wood mansion showcasing the architectural design built in the period of Raja Sidh Singh Kullu in A.D. It is now preserved under the heritage hotel property and offers some of the amazing views for the tourists. After that you can head toward Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery which is the house reputed artist named Nicholas Roerich. After your visit you can drive back to Manali.