Day first drive from Mcleodganj to Bir by Jeep (65km) and start the trek same day to Billing (2900m). It is about 10 km steep short cut trek from Bir to Billing. Night stay at Billing in tents.
Barot, a village originally developed in the 1920s for Shanan Hydel Project, is now a tourist location in Mandi district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Barot was difficult to access until 1975, when a road was opened. It is situated 40 km from Jogindernagar and 65 km from Mandi, the district headquarter. The road to Barot branches off at Jogindernagar-Mandi Highway and from Jogindernagar the distance is 40 km. It is sometimes possible to use the funicular trolley from Jogindernagar which reduces the distance to 12 km. The road route includes terraced fields and thick cedar forests, rising to Jhatingri at the hilltop. The remains of the summer palace of the former rulers of Mandi are located here. Through the small village of Tikkan, the road carries on to Barot. The town has a range of outdoor activities, including a trout breeding centre, from where fish are released into the Uhl river. A 30 km section of the river is used for angling.
Barot also forms the gateway to the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary which lies across the Uhl. The sanctuary is home to the monal, black bear and ghoral. Within it are forest rest houses at Thaltuckhod and Silbandhwari. Through woods of cedar and pine a trek route cuts across the sanctuary to Kullu.
Day first drive from Mcleodganj to Bir by Jeep (65km) and start the trek same day to Billing (2900m). It is about 10 km steep short cut trek from Bir to Billing. Night stay at Billing in tents.
Your incredible 5-day trek begins, centered around the Uhl valley and river and situated in the shadows of some of the world’s highest peaks. The trek commences through oak and rhododendron forests towards Haribag Pass (2,500m), an ancient trading route. You will then pass by the village of Barua, where you will stop for a picnic lunch in beautiful meadows, soaking up the great views of the mountains and surrounding peaks.
Crossing the pass you head down to Majaj, a favourite spot for bird-watchers and nature-spotters alike. The area is well known for its diverse Himalayan wildlife and birdlife, including the Himalayan griffin vulture, monal, golden eagle and the lammergeier. A lucky few may see thar, musk deer, forest leopard, puma and Himalayan black and brown bear. O/N Tenting accommodation.
Today, you’ll walk alongside shepherds and locals, before crossing the Sun Pass at 2,700m. Pushing onwards, you will follow the Thadkot River alongside traditionally farmed terraced fields and tiny hamlets. You’ll arrive into your place of accommodation in time to witness a stunning Himalayan sunset as it casts shadows over the distant, snow-capped peaks. Accommodation
Wake up beneath the snow-capped summits basking in the early morning sun. After a quick cup of delicious Himalayan tea, it’s off on a winding path upwards with spectacular views of the Shivalik Mountains. The surrounding alpine pastures are strewn with wildflowers and medicinal plants. You’ll stay at an old colonial hunting lodge, used many years ago by the British and the Maharajas. Accommodation in a Tents.
Weary legs may need a break, so today is a rest day in preparation for the final days of the challenge. For those still in the mood for exercise there are some great optional walks available. You can climb a nearby peak which boasts arguably the best views in the Himalayas. The group will rendezvous again in at your accommodation place for the evening meal, before spending another night at the hunting lodge. Accommodation in tents.
Transport Options (Delhi – Mcleod ganj – Delhi)
For travel to Mcleod ganj and back one can choose between air, rail & road. For air travel, the closest airport is the Gaggal DHM, also known as Kangra Airport, or Dharamshala Airport and is well connected to Delhi and other parts of the country by Indigo, Alliance Air , Spice Jet.
There are frequent Public Transport buses including Volvos available from Delhi to Mcleodganj that cost about Rs. 1200- 1500 per person. These buses depart from Majnu ka tilla every 30 mins. or so and take about 12 hrs to cover the distance. The same is also applicable on the return journey. A private vehicle could also be arranged for if you require the same.
Weather Details
Summer in Mcleod ganj extends from March to June when the temperature variation is recorded to be ranging between 23°c and 27°c. Mercury sometimes reaches up to 38°c but never goes beyond that. During winters the temperature can drop to -1° and the maximum temperature hardly goes up to 20°c.
Please keep in mind that the above information is not exact and does not account for sudden changes. Whatever the temperatures and conditions rest assured we will be prepared to handle it with ease as we use equipment of very high specifications
The trek is moderate and suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers. Some trails have steep climbs, but overall, it's manageable with basic fitness.
The best time is March to June (pleasant weather, clear views) and September to November (post-monsoon greenery, fewer crowds). Winters (December to February) are also beautiful but can be extremely cold with snow in higher areas.
By Air – The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala), about 110 km away.
By Train – Nearest railway station: Pathankot, followed by a scenic drive or narrow-gauge train to Joginder Nagar.
By Road – Well-connected by road from Mandi, Bir, and Palampur. Buses and taxis are available.
Rajgundha Trek (Easy, scenic meadows)
Billing Trek (Connects to Asia’s highest paragliding site)
Bada Bhangal Trek (For experienced trekkers, leading to the remote valley)
No special permits are required for Barot Valley trek, but if you plan to enter Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, you may need to check with local authorities.
Yes, it's considered safe. Locals are friendly, and the trek has moderate footfall. However, it's always advisable to trek in a group or with a guide, especially in remote areas.