The Parvati Valley via the Chandrakhani Pass and Malana

15 days in India, 5 days trekking; level: easy 

Highest Point: 3,660m

Dates: May, June, September, October

Route Highlights: Delhi - Manali - Naggar - Rumsu - Chandrakhani Pass - Malana - Rashol - Kasol - Manikaran - Manali - Delhi

The trek to Malana Valley offers an opportunity to see a relatively isolated and comparatively unspoilt hill community. From Manali we travel to Naggar, 28 km from Manali, where we start the trek after having a look at the Naggar Castle, spending the first night at Rumsu (2,377 m). Next day it is through mixed forest and open meadows to and over the Chandrakhani Pass (3,660 m) which takes us into the Malana Nala watershed, reaching Malana village (2,650m) on the third day. In the past the villagers resisted outsiders from even passing through the area and you could only enter with permission from the villagers but this is no longer needed. The village of Malana has its own language, customs and law, governed by a council of village elders. The whole of the Malana Valley is dominated by the Deo Tibba peak in the north. Next day we reach the Parvati Valley at Rashol, from where there is a wonderful view of the Pin Parvati range of mountains. Two stages later we reach the hot springs at Manikaran. There are many ancient temples at Manikaran and here our trek ends. After a day of rest, we return by road to Manali. The tour includes sightseeing around Manali and a trip to the Rohtang Pass.