Brief

Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful hill state in northern India, nestled in the western Himalayas. Its stunning vistas and rugged terrain provide a paradise for trekkers. Few areas can match such incredible diversity and pristine natural beauty – rolling foothills, lofty hill stations, serene pine forests, and the high-altitude deserts of Lahaul and Spiti.

Highlights

Take the Toy Train via Shimla on the way to or from Manali.
Trek in the foothills of the spectacular Himalayas.
Visit remote mountain-top Buddhist monasteries.
Explore the World Heritage sites of the Red Fort and Taj Mahal in Agra.

The Expedition

Phase 1: Acclimatisation

Upon arrival teams will have time to adjust to the changes in culture and environment by exploring Delhi or Manali. To prepare for the trekking phase teams can choose from a selection of short uphill treks in and around Manali visiting the temples and the old town, or there are several short day hikes in the nearby hills.

Phase 2: Trek

Teams may choose to trek through the lush pine forests near Manali or continue to the high altitude desert of the starkly beautiful Spiti Valley. Options include the Hampta Pass and Deo Tibba Base, both 4-5 day treks in the Kullu Valley.

Phase 3: Project

In this valuable and rewarding phase teams can volunteer and take part in a variety of environmental or community based projects. Past examples include creating a play area, fixing roofs, maintenance work and painting, with plenty of opportunity for interaction with local villagers and children. All projects are chosen in consultation with the community to ensure their needs are met.

Phase 4: Culture and Review

Depending on the progress of the trek, teams can visit some of the many fascinating attractions such as ancient monasteries or the old hill station of Shimla. The last days in India can be spent exploring the architectural wonders of the Red Fort in Delhi and the amazing Taj Mahal in Agra.

Expedition Grade

Our Indian adventure is graded as an moderate to hard; however, some more challenging days can be expected when trekking due to the altitude. The fitter you are the more you will enjoy the expedition.

Expedition Type

Adventure

Project

Culture

Expedition Level

Easy

Moderate

Hard

Facts

Terrain

Mountainous, lush green valleys and high altitude.

Weather

There is a huge variation in the climate in Himachal Pradesh due to variation in altitude. It varies from hot and tropical in the southern low areas to cold glacial and alpine in the northern and eastern mountain ranges. During their summer months from late March until June, Manali remains fairly hot and humid with the average high temperature of 25°C and odd showers.

Culture

Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries dominate life here. The culture is similar to that of the Tibetan culture. Art, literature, and music all
contain elements of the prevailing Buddhist beliefs.

Food and Accommodation

• Hostels and camping
• Local cook whilst on trek/project
• Local restaurants whilst in town