Trek Himachal

Himri Pass

District Kullu, Himachal Pradesh

Position - N32 02.299 E77 02.958

Altitude – 3261 metres above MSL

Trail Orientation – South – North

Closest Settlement(s) – Gramang (South), Himri (North)

Himri, named after a village of the same name, is a pass sparingly used. When used, it is often by a herd of sheep or goats. The trail is not fit for a mule because of undulations, steepness and thick bushes, which interfere with whatever traces of a trail are present. If you are as high as a sheep, which I must admit is unlikely, this trail will be easy because you wont be troubled by bushes but difficult because often this trail involves climbing a single step as high as 2 feet or more. If you are higher than a sheep, the steps will be easier (only relatively though) but the bushes wont be. So, what I am trying to say is that sheep or not, this is not easy to climb. And it is deceptive as well, looks very easy and inviting from Lug valley but is very strenuous. Advice from someone who has already climbed this pass: Do not underestimate this pass, even if all logic and senses urge you to do so. I have made this mistake and felt it.

With no established trail, thick undergrowth of ferns and thorny bushes abounds. The jungle is humid, thick and less lighted than most jungles in the area, which means lots of wildlife, Monal is a very common sight on this trail. If you are lucky and patient, expect a rendezvous with a bear as well. The vegetation on the North face is Bhojpatra (Himalayan Birch), again a unique feature and a huge grassland with cows grazing.

And then there are close views of the passes which are the gateway to Lahaul and Spiti. Snow laden high mountains in an arc right ahead of you. These views are so stunning that you could even end up missing the views of Kalihani pass towards the West.

Trekking to Himri:

Himri lies on the same route as Bhubhu if you trekking from Bir to Manali, The Bhang Trek. However, because the slope down from Bhubhu brings you out at a road close to Kullu, very few groups who cross Bhubhu, cross Himri. Most find comfort in having crossed Bhubhu and make themselves comfortable in Kullu. And this is what makes it special and untouched. If nothing else, the prospect of buying chicken on the way to Himri should motivate you to carry on.

Himri can also be used for a short trek. From Kullu, come up the Lug valley, cross Himri towards Manali and come out at Karal, take a bus to Manali. Simple! While the trail is not easy on the feet, navigation should not be a problem because the next go-to point is always in eyesight and slopes are not treacherous enough for you to have to change route. One can do this without a guide, though be careful and rightly equipped.

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