This trek is defined by its progressive transition in terrain. The initial approach follows shepherd trails through dense forests and meadows, gradually opening into high-altitude pastures and moraine zones. As the route gains height, the landscape becomes more exposed, with snow sections and loose terrain leading up to the pass.
The crossing itself involves a sustained climb over mixed ground—snow, scree, and occasional glacier sections depending on the season. The descent into Lahaul is steeper and more rugged, requiring careful movement and awareness of conditions.
What sets Chobia Pass apart is its remoteness and low footfall. It is not a marked or frequently travelled route, and sections may involve route finding, especially closer to the pass. We approach this trek with a focus on strong logistics, route awareness, and steady pacing, ensuring the team is prepared for the changing terrain and limited infrastructure along the way.
The Chobia Pass trek is a moderate to demanding high-altitude trek, with increasing difficulty as the route approaches the pass. The challenge lies in the combination of elevation gain, terrain variation, and the relative lack of defined trails. The ascent includes forest trails, alpine meadows, moraine, and snow sections, making it physically varied. The pass crossing itself can be demanding depending on snow conditions, and requires careful movement over loose and sometimes unstable ground. Weather can be unpredictable at higher elevations, with sudden changes in visibility and temperature. Camps are set in remote locations, with minimal external support once the trek progresses beyond the initial villages. This trek suits those looking for a less crowded, more traditional Himalayan crossover, where endurance, adaptability, and awareness of terrain play a key role.
Note on Itinerary: While we aim to follow the planned schedule, all itineraries are subject to change based on weather, route conditions, and overall team pace. Decisions are made in the field to ensure a safe and well-managed journey.
Elevation: 1,000 ft / 300 m → 6,460 ft / 1,970 m
Distance: 80 km
Drive from Pathankot to Dalhousie. Gradual transition into mid-altitude mountain terrain.
Elevation: 6,460 ft / 1,970 m → 7,200 ft / 2,195 m
Distance: 110 km
Drive via Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary and Khajjiar to Bharmour.
Elevation: 7,200 ft / 2,195 m → ~10,200 ft / 3,100 m
Distance: 5–6 hrs
Drive to Kao village and begin trekking along the Budhil valley. The trail ascends steadily along Chobia Nallah to reach Khateru Temple.
Elevation: ~10,200 ft / 3,100 m → 12,470 ft / 3,800 m
Distance: 5–6 hrs
Trek via Baggi Got, a high-altitude grazing ground with open alpine pastures. Continue gradual ascent to Alyas Base Camp below the pass.
Elevation: 12,470 ft / 3,800 m
Rest and acclimatise at base camp. Short walks around camp to prepare for pass crossing.
Elevation: 12,470 ft / 3,800 m → 16,160 ft / 4,925 m → ~12,500 ft / 3,800 m
Distance: 7–8 hrs
Early start to cross Chobia Pass. Steep ascent over loose rock and seasonal snow. The pass is narrow with exposed sections. Descent into Lahaul side requires careful navigation.
Elevation: ~12,500 ft / 3,800 m → 10,500 ft / 3,200 m
Continue descent towards Trilokinath Temple. Drive to Jispa.
Elevation: 10,500 ft / 3,200 m → 6,700 ft / 2,050 m
Drive from Jispa to Manali through Lahaul region.
Depart from Manali after completing the expedition.
Train to Pathankot : Pathankot is well connected with major railway stations across India. This trip requires that you arrive in Pathankot on Day 1 of your expedition. Early arrival is preferred.
Flight to Pathankot : The nearest airport is Pathankot Airport, which has limited connectivity with major cities. This trip requires that you arrive in Pathankot on Day 1 of your expedition.
Flight from Kullu : The nearest airport is Kullu–Manali Airport, located about 1–1.5 hours from Manali. You may plan your onward travel any time after 12:00 Hrs on the last day of your itinerary.
Bus from Manali : Manali is well connected by regular bus services from Delhi and Chandigarh. Both government and private buses operate daily, including overnight options.
Early Arrival/Late Departure: For those arriving early or departing after the scheduled itinerary, we can make hotel and transport arrangements at an additional cost. Please contact our office in advance if you would like us to make additional reservations.
Missed Flights/ Train / Buses: If you miss your flight / bus or if your travel is significantly delayed, please contact us through WhatsApp on +91 94076 89444 and follow the prompt for 24-hour contact. Participants are responsible for determining and meeting travel and identification requirements based on their nationality.
EXPENSES
For purchases and supplemental costs in India, we advise combining cash and credit/debit cards. After Manali, there aren’t many establishments that accept cards or UPI, therefore we advise you to bring additional cash. Request modest denominations of change when exchanging money because bigger note change is difficult to get outside of major cities. Alcoholic beverages and bottled beverages are not included with your meals, and as we do not promote the use of single-use plastic, it is advised that you bring your own water bottle. If you intend to purchase refreshments, please bring some additional cash. Ahead of Schedule/Evacuation You are in charge of paying any costs incurred (such as extra hotel nights, transportation costs, and evacuation fees) if you have to leave the adventure before it is finished. It is advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance so that these expenses may be paid for should they arise.
TIPPING
Every effort is made by our staff to make sure your trip or excursion is successful, safe, and as fun as possible. Gratuities are a great way to express your gratitude after a satisfying encounter. Since we think gratuities should depend on the quantity and quality of services, as well as an amount that fits your budget, it’s challenging to suggest a precise sum. Your lead guide and coordinator can accept any contributions to the guides’ tip fund, and the entire team will be grateful.
TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE
Duffel Bag (1 Piece, 90–100L)
Primary load bag for transporting all personal gear. Should be durable, weather-resistant, and suitable for rough handling.
Backpack (1 Piece, 50–60L)
Main trekking pack for carrying daily essentials. Must have proper load distribution and hip support.
Dry Bag / Pack Liner (1 Set)
Internal waterproofing system to protect critical gear from moisture and river crossings.
Base Layer (1 Set)
Moisture-wicking thermal layer used for temperature regulation during cold conditions.
Trekking Clothing (2–3 Sets)
Lightweight, quick-dry layers suitable for sustained movement over multiple days.
Mid Layer (1 Piece – Fleece / Light Insulation)
Active insulation layer for moderate cold during movement.
Insulated Jacket (1 Piece – Down / Synthetic)
Primary thermal layer for static conditions and high-altitude camps.
Waterproof Shell Jacket (1 Piece)
Technical outer layer providing protection from wind, precipitation, and exposure.
Waterproof Shell Pants (1 Piece)
Protective lower layer for high pass crossings and adverse weather.
Trekking Pants (1–2 Pieces)
Durable, breathable pants for daily use across varied terrain.
Warm Cap / Beanie (1 Piece)
Thermal protection for cold and high-altitude exposure.
Sun Cap (1 Piece) – Optional*
Protection against direct solar radiation at altitude.
Buff / Neck Gaiter (1 Piece) Optional*
Multi-use protection from wind, dust, and cold.
Insulated Gloves (1 Pair)
Primary hand protection in cold and windy conditions.
Trekking Boots (1 Pair)
Mid to high-ankle boots with stiff sole for stability on uneven terrain and load carrying.
Camp Footwear (1 Pair)
Lightweight footwear for recovery and movement at camp.
Socks (3–4 Pairs)
Combination of moisture-wicking and insulating layers for foot management.
Sleeping Bag (1 Piece, Comfort -10°C to -20°C)
Insulated system suitable for sub-zero high-altitude conditions.
Sleeping Mat (1 Piece)
Ground insulation to reduce heat loss and improve recovery.
Headlamp (1 Piece)
Hands-free lighting system for early starts and camp movement. With extra battery or Charger.
Sunglasses (2 Piece, Category 4 or with UV Protection)
High-altitude eye protection against UV exposure and snow glare.
Sunscreen (1 Piece, SPF 50+)
Protection against intense solar radiation.
Lip Balm (1 Piece)
Prevents cracking and sun damage at altitude.
Personal First Aid Kit (1 Set)
Basic medical kit tailored to individual needs.
Water Bottles (2 Pieces, 1L each)
Carrying capacity for maintaining hydration at altitude.
Personal Snacks (1 Set) Optional*
Supplementary nutrition for energy during long trekking days.
Trekking Poles (1 Pair)
Aid in balance, load distribution, and reducing joint strain.
Power Bank (1 Piece)
Backup power source for essential electronics.
Repair Kit (1 Set)
Basic field repair tools for gear maintenanc
ID Proof (1 Piece)
Mandatory for permits and identification.
Insurance
Travel insurance copy printed.
Cash (Small Amount)
Required for remote regions with no digital access.
While most of our departures are designed as small, fixed groups, this itinerary can also be run as a private or customised expedition. Group journeys often create strong connections and shared experiences, but we understand that certain trips require a more tailored approach—whether it’s timing, team composition, or objective. Over the years, Pahadi Bakra has led private expeditions across multiple Himalayan regions, working with climbers, trekkers, filmmakers, and organisations. A private departure allows for better control over pace, team size, and overall structure—especially in remote or high-altitude environments where flexibility matters.
This itinerary can be adjusted based on your requirements. Whether you need a specific start date, a modified route, or additional acclimatisation days, we can structure the expedition accordingly. It also works well for focused objectives—recce trips, training-based journeys, documentation projects, or small team expeditions. We keep the approach practical—fewer people, better logistics, and a structure that fits your goal, rather than forcing you into a fixed format.
If you’re looking to customise this trip or run it privately, reach out to discuss your plan. We’ll work with you to shape an expedition that fits your timeline, team, and objective.
Our treks are built on strong fundamentals—planning, people, and responsibility in the mountains. We operate with experienced guides and local teams who bring years of on-ground knowledge, not just of the routes, but of how to move safely and efficiently in these environments. Many of our team members have over a decade of experience, with some working in the mountains for much longer. Select expeditions are supported by UIAGM-level guiding standards, ensuring a higher level of decision-making, safety, and overall experience.
We actively work with local staff in every region we operate, so the communities we travel through are directly involved and benefit from each expedition. Their knowledge, combined with our guiding approach, strengthens both the experience and the connection to the region.
Every journey is backed by careful logistics and realistic planning, so the focus stays on the terrain, not on managing avoidable issues.
At the same time, we follow Leave No Trace principles—keeping groups small, minimising impact, and ensuring responsible travel in sensitive environments.
We don’t try to offer everything. We focus on doing a few things well—with the right team and the right approach.















