Bara Bhangal Trek - A trek from the Manali to Dharamshala via two high passes with Above14000ft

The Bara Bhangal trek, also known as the Shepherds trail trek takes you over two high passes - the Kalihani and Thamsar and is limited to trekkers experienced in the rugged backcountry with long walking hours.

Bara Bhangal is a remote ancient village that grew in prosperity over centuries due to the protection provided by the surrounding mountains (the Bara Bhangal Range). Though politically a part of Kangra now, it is uniquely placed at the conjunction of three districts - Kullu, Kangra and Chamba. The waters from the Kalihani and Minkiani passes meet at Bara Bhangal to create the Ravi river which then flows west to Chamba.

The Bara Bhangal trek is a classic Himalayan traverse that take you from Manali in the Kullu valley to Billing in Kangra valley. The trek starts from right above Manali but it soon leaves the crowded town behind and gains quick altitude to reach secluded glades, ridges with panoramic views, rolling green meadows studded with wildflowers and views of Deo Tibba, Indrasan,  Inderkila, Rohtang Pass and the many peaks of the Bara Shigri glacier.

We cross Kalihani pass over glaciated terrain and enter the Bara Bhangal range and continue onward traversing through multiple shepherd camps and meadows to reach the mystical Bara Bhangal village. From the village, we start the ascent to the second pass on the trek - Thamsar and pass several glacial ponds on our way to the top. From Thamsar pass, we again enter lush green landscapes - this time of the Kangra valley.

The Bara Bhangal trek, though not very high has multiple ascents and descents. But for the trouble, it is a very fruitful trek that people looking for an isolated, intune-with-nature route would revel in.