Sar Pass Trek: A Snowy Journey That Changed My Perspective

It all began with a restless heart and an untouched checklist. For years, I had heard whispers about the Sar Pass trek—how it’s a magical trail filled with meadows, snowfields, pine forests, and alpine dreams. So, one summer, I finally said yes to the mountains. I didn’t know then that the trail from Kasol to Sar Pass would leave more than just boot prints in the snow—it would leave me changed.

Day 1 – From Chaos to Calm: Arriving in Kasol

I landed in Kasol, the charming little town tucked along the Parvati River, a day before the trek started. The vibe here was both chill and electric—cafes filled with music, people from around the world, and the river humming a soft lullaby through the valley.

I met my fellow trekkers and our guide during the orientation. Strangers at first glance, but united by a common desire: to conquer Sar Pass, standing tall at an altitude of 13,800 feet.

That night, sleep came late. My mind was racing—equal parts excitement, equal parts anxiety.

Day 2 – Kasol to Grahan Village: First Steps into the Wild

Our trek officially began from Kasol to Grahan Village, a quaint hamlet untouched by modern chaos. The trail snaked through pine forests, with sunlight filtering through the canopy above us. The path was steep in parts, but the beauty of nature around us made the effort feel like a privilege.

As we reached Grahan, I felt like I had stepped into a dream. Stone houses, narrow cobbled paths, and the warm smiles of villagers welcomed us. Kids waved from rooftops, and the air smelled of firewood and earth.

That evening, sipping chai while looking at snow-capped peaks, I realized: this was exactly the kind of peace I’d been missing.

Day 3 – Grahan to Min Thach: Into the Heart of Himachal

Leaving Grahan behind, we ascended into more rugged terrain. The trail toward Min Thach was steeper, the trees taller, and the air thinner.

We crossed wooden bridges, saw wildflowers blooming between rocks, and spotted the occasional Himalayan magpie. The group started bonding—sharing snacks, encouraging each other, laughing at silly slips on the trail.

Min Thach was a clearing surrounded by dense forest and mighty peaks. It felt like a hidden stage in the middle of nowhere. The wind whispered secrets, and the stars came out in full glory that night. I had never seen the Milky Way so clearly—it felt like the universe was watching over us.

Day 4 – Min Thach to Nagaru: Snow, Struggle, and Stillness

This was the toughest stretch—both physically and mentally. The climb to Nagaru, the last campsite before the summit, was a true test. The trail grew icy, narrow, and often steep. Snow began to appear on the ground, soft at first, then crunching beneath our boots.

The winds were harsher, the silence more profound.

When we reached Nagaru, we were above the tree line, camping on snow. The views were insane—surreal layers of mountains against a golden-orange sunset. That night was bone-chilling cold. We huddled in sleeping bags, cracking jokes just to distract ourselves from our shivering bones.

But inside, a fire was building. We were almost there.

Day 5 – Summit Day: Crossing the Sar Pass

We woke at 3 AM. After tea and a light breakfast, we began the final push under a sky full of stars.

Trekking through knee-deep snow in the dark was an experience I can’t describe in words. Headlamps bobbed like fireflies. Every breath formed clouds in the freezing air.

As we climbed, the sun slowly began to rise behind us, bathing the snow in hues of pink and orange. And then—there it was. Sar Pass. A wide, white expanse of untouched snow. The world looked still, frozen, perfect.

We sat at the summit in awe. Some people cried, some smiled in silence, others took photos—but we all knew this was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of high.

And the best part? The descent. A snow slide down the other side of the pass—fast, fun, and absolutely unforgettable.

Final Camp and Farewell: From Biskeri Thach to Barshaini

After summiting, we camped at Biskeri Thach, another meadow straight out of a painting. Lush green grass, tall snowy peaks, and wild horses running around—this was the Himachal I had dreamed of.

The next day, we descended towards Barshaini, where roads (and networks) reconnected us to the world. But I wasn’t the same person who had started this journey.

I was stronger, more grounded, and deeply grateful—for the snow, the silence, the struggle, and the friendships.

Why Sar Pass Trek Should Be on Your Bucket List

If you’re looking for a Himalayan trek that offers varied landscapes, moderate challenge, and incredible beauty, the Sar Pass trek in Himachal Pradesh is your answer.

Highlights:

🏞️ Lush forests to alpine meadows to snow-covered passes

🧭 Rich cultural experiences in villages like Grahan

❄️ Trek through snow even in early summer

🌄 Perfect for first-time Himalayan trekkers

🌌 Night skies that will make you believe in magic

Final Thoughts: The Mountain Doesn’t Just Test You, It Transforms You

The Sar Pass trek wasn’t just a trip—it was a turning point. I arrived looking for an escape and left with a deeper connection—to nature, to others, and to myself.

If there’s one thing I know now, it’s this: the mountain doesn’t care who you are. But if you’re willing to climb, to struggle, to listen—it’ll teach you more than you came looking for.

And long after your boots are back on flat land, you’ll carry the snow, the stars, and the silence in your heart.