Passes

Baralacha Pass in Himachal Pradesh

As per dictionary definition a pass is "a way, such as a narrow gap between mountains, that affords passage around, over, or through a barrier". The state of Himachal Pradesh is dominated by three main mountain ranges that spread over the entire area. These ranges are the Dhauladhar Range (4500-5000 m), Pir Pinjal Range (5000m ) and the Great Himalayan Range (over 6000 m). As such the presence of passes in Himachal is quiet obvious. These passes are not only a beauty to feast your eyes, rather they are attractive for adventurous spirit as well. Trekking is one of the most exciting option to reach these passes.

Famous Passes Of Himachal Pradesh

Baralacha Pass

At the height of 16400 feet is one of the best trekking passes of Himachal Pradesh, the Baralacha Pass. The pass extends to about 8 km from Spit to Lahaul. The pass is the place where roads from Zanskar, Ladakh and Lahaul merge into each other. Over a period of time, these routes have been used by travellers to reach various destinations. On the opposite side of the pass, the snowfields give birth to two of the most famous and significant rivers of Lahaul, Chandra and Bagha.

Kunzum Pass

This pass is located at the height of 4590 m and is an entranceway for Spiti from Kullu and Lahaul. Enroute to this pass lies the Bara Sigri Glacier, the second longest glacier of the world. Perched at the top of this pass is a temple dedicated to goddess Durga. The views of the surrounding area from atop is absolutely mesmerising. There is the Spiti valley on the one side and the mountain peaks of Chandra and Bhaga on the other. Access to the pass can be gained by crossing the Rohtang Pass after which a drive of 20 km will lead upto Gramphoo. From here a right turn takes to the Kunzum Pass.

Pin Parbati Pass

The Pin Parbati Pass extends from Kullu to Spiti and is located at a height of around 4810 m. The pass connects two valleys - Sutlej and Spiti. Trekkers can start off from Manikaran and passing through Pulga, Khirganga and Mantalai, reach this pass. The pass offers contrasting views of snow covered peaks and barren mountainous ridge from atop.

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass is yet another place that will be loved by the lovers of trekking. It is situated on Manali Keylong Road at an altitude of 4112 m. From the pass, the views of the high rising mountain ranges are extremely captivating. Beyond the pass lies a cultural treasure - a place occupied by the Buddhist who have remained away from the hustle bustle and the development of the cities. This seclusion as helped them preserve their own original tradition culture with remarkable ease. June to September is the best time for trekkers to cross this pass.

Other Passes Of Himachal Pradesh

Dulhi Pass, Chauri Pass, Sara Umga Pass, Manali Pass, Kamilaga Pass, Asha Gali, Chabia Pass