Chandrakhani Pass Trek

The Chandrakhani Pass Trek is Kullu Valley's best-kept trekking secret — a route that winds through fragrant apple orchards, old-growth deodar cedar forests, and high alpine meadows before descending to the famously insular Malana village. At 3,660 metres (12,008 ft), Chandrakhani is one of the lower passes in the Kullu region, making it accessible to moderate-level trekkers while still delivering the dramatic landscape change of a genuine Himalayan crossing.

The trek begins at Rumsu village near Naggar — itself worth a visit for its ancient stone castle and Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery. The trail immediately enters apple and plum orchards that frame the route for the first hour, a uniquely beautiful start unlike most Himalayan treks. Above the orchards, the deodar and oak forest gives way to open meadows with views of Deo Tibba (6,001m) and the Pir Panjal range to the north.

The pass crossing itself is a broad, relatively gentle saddle with 360-degree views of the Kullu Valley on one side and the remote Malana Valley on the other. The descent into Malana is dramatic — steep switchbacks through rhododendron forest dropping into one of India's most distinctive villages. Malana has its own dialect, customs, and ancient democratic governance system. Visitors are welcome but must respect the local rules: do not touch villagers or their property.

From Malana, the route continues to Kasol in the Parvati Valley — a popular backpacker hub — and then back to Manali by road. Junegiri Yatra manages the full logistics: transport, certified guides, camping, and all meals on trail.