26 December 2025
Understanding the Sar Pass Trek route is essential for anyone planning this Himalayan adventure. The route is known for its dramatic transition - starting from lush green forests near Kasol, moving through alpine meadows, and finally crossing a high-altitude snow-covered pass at around 13,800 ft.
The Sar Pass Trek route connects the Parvati Valley to the Tosh Valley, making it one of the most scenic crossover treks in Himachal Pradesh. Unlike short weekend treks, this route unfolds gradually, allowing trekkers to experience changing landscapes and altitude zones.
Where Does the Sar Pass Trek Route Start and End?
Starting Point: Kasol / Grahan Village
Ending Point: Barshaini
The Sar Pass Trek route usually starts from Kasol, a popular base town in Himachal Pradesh. From Kasol, trekkers hike to Grahan Village, which marks the beginning of the true trekking trail.
The route ends at Barshaini, near Tosh and Kheerganga, after descending from the Sar Pass. This crossover route is one of the reasons Sar Pass is more adventurous than circular treks like Kedarkantha Trek.
Sar Pass Trek Route – Day Wise Trail Breakdown
Day 1: Kasol to Grahan Village
The trek begins with a steady ascent through dense pine forests. The trail runs parallel to the Grahan Nallah and offers beautiful views of the Parvati Valley.
Distance: ~8 - 9 km
Terrain: Forest trail, gradual climb
Highlights: Traditional Himachali village life
Day 2: Grahan Village to Min Thach
From Grahan, the route climbs deeper into the forest and opens into wide alpine meadows known as thach.
Distance: ~6–7 km
Terrain: Forest + meadow
Highlights: Open grasslands, campsite views
Min Thach is one of the most peaceful camps on the Sar Pass Trek route.
Day 3: Min Thach to Nagaru
This is where the route starts feeling serious. The ascent becomes steeper, and snow patches often appear as you approach Nagaru.
Distance: ~4–5 km
Terrain: Steep ascent, possible snow
Highlights: First snow views, high-altitude camp
Compared to treks like Bhrigu Lake Trek, this section is more physically demanding.
Day 4: Nagaru to Sar Pass to Biskeri Thach (Summit Day)
This is the most challenging and exciting day on the Sar Pass Trek route.
Early morning start
Steep snow climb to Sar Pass
Long descent to Biskeri Thach
The Sar Pass crossing offers panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges and is the highlight of the trek.
Day 5: Biskeri Thach to Barshaini
The final day involves a long descent through meadows and forests, ending near Barshaini.
Distance: ~10–12 km
Terrain: Gradual to steep descent
Highlights: Views of Tosh Valley
This descent connects the route to popular trails like the Kheerganga Trek.
Terrain & Trail Conditions Along the Sar Pass Trek Route
The Sar Pass Trek route includes:
Dense pine and rhododendron forests
Alpine meadows (thach)
Snow-covered slopes near the pass
Steep rocky and grassy descents
This variety makes the route more dynamic than many moderate treks and adds to the overall challenge.
Why the Sar Pass Trek Route Is Considered Scenic & Adventurous
What makes the Sar Pass Trek route special is the contrast:
Green valleys at the start
Snow at high altitude
Village-to-village crossover
Few treks offer this combination in such a compact itinerary. Compared to more technical treks like Hampta Pass Trek, Sar Pass remains adventurous yet achievable.
Final Thoughts on Sar Pass Trek Route
The Sar Pass Trek route is a perfect blend of forest trails, meadows, snowfields, and a thrilling high-altitude pass crossing. Its journey from Kasol to Barshaini makes it one of the most rewarding crossover treks in Himachal Pradesh.
For complete itinerary details, safety measures, and guided batches, explore the Sar Pass Trek page by Himalayan DareDevils.
Frequently Asked Questions – Sar Pass Trek Route
1. What is the exact Sar Pass Trek route?
The Sar Pass Trek route starts from Kasol, moves through Grahan Village, Min Thach, and Nagaru, crosses Sar Pass at around 13,800 ft, and finally descends to Biskeri Thach and Barshaini. This crossover route connects Parvati Valley to Tosh Valley.
2. Where does the Sar Pass Trek start and end?
The trek starts near Kasol, with Grahan Village being the first major trekking point, and ends at Barshaini, close to Tosh and Kheerganga. This makes Sar Pass a point-to-point trek rather than a circular one.
3. How many days does the Sar Pass Trek route take?
The Sar Pass Trek route usually takes 5 days to complete. Some itineraries may include an extra buffer or acclimatization day depending on weather, group pace, and snow conditions.
4. Which day is the most difficult on the Sar Pass Trek route?
The Nagaru to Sar Pass to Biskeri Thach day is the most challenging part of the route. It involves an early start, steep snow climbing to the pass, and a long downhill descent, making it the most physically demanding day.
5. Is the Sar Pass Trek route suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Sar Pass Trek route is suitable for fit beginners, provided they trek during the recommended season (mid-May to June) and go with an experienced trekking operator. Beginners should be prepared for long walking hours and snow sections near the pass.
6. Is there snow on the Sar Pass Trek route?
Yes, snow is commonly found on the Sar Pass Trek route, especially between Nagaru Camp and the Sar Pass crossing during May and early June. Snow conditions gradually reduce as the season progresses.
7. How long is the Sar Pass Trek route in terms of distance?
The total trekking distance of the Sar Pass Trek route is approximately 48–50 km, spread over multiple days. Daily distances vary based on terrain, altitude gain, and campsite locations.
8. Why is the Sar Pass Trek route considered scenic?
The Sar Pass Trek route is considered scenic because it offers rapid landscape changes—from dense pine forests and traditional villages to wide alpine meadows and snow-covered high-altitude passes—all within a single trek.
