Himalayan Bliss: Trekking the Chandrakhani Pass for Unforgettable Mountain Memories
Overview
This hike traverses a breathtakingly gorgeous pass and investigates an old civilization. The Chandrakhani Pass Trek is the subject of an intriguing tale. The chief deity of Malana and Jamlu, used to travel this route while transporting all the other deities in a pot. On top of this pass, he unlocked the basket containing the Gods. The Gods were scattered over the valley by a powerful wind, where they eventually settled. That is why the Kullu valley is still referred to as the valley of the Gods.
In Indian trekking circles, the journey to this Pass is not brand-new. This route is one of the most travelled in India because of the ancient legends associated with Naggar, where the journey begins, and Malana, the village where the walk ends. For those who are interested in learning more about the Kullu Valley, this walk is a cultural gem.
History:
A living history book can be found in the villages, the architecture, the people, and the culture. The journey follows an old shepherd’s path. So don’t be shocked if you come upon a shepherd herding hundreds of sheep along your walk. Good rest stops along the trip are the numerous shepherd cottages. Even some may offer you tea to drink.
The walk is particularly well-known for the stunning woodlands that line either side of it. It gives hikers a joyful moral boost. The woodlands are dark, chilly, and full of variation. You may occasionally be surrounded by deodar trees, then maples and then oaks. The forests seem to have been specifically designed for whistling through. You never lose the scent of the woods.
The upper Kullu valley’s grasslands are a pleasant trip after leaving the forest line. The vistas of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar hills dominate the horizon when there is a clear sky. Finally, the summit trek up the ridge is uncommon. There may be strong winds on the top ridge, reaching the pass is an exciting challenge. Amazing views may be seen from any angle.
It is advisable not to choose to descend from the pass to Malana directly and sharply. Instead, you go on and set up a tent in the Dadru forest region. There is a lot of history, culture, and folklore surrounding this pass. In Himachal Pradesh, trekkers have another fantastic trip to complete between the months of July and August.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit this pass and go on a trek is during the months of June, July, August, September and October. Other times of the year, the snow is too deep to safely cross a pass.
- From Chaklani onward, a lot of snow is to be expected in June. From a little after this camp till the pass, you will find decent snow. Snow will continue to fall until you reach the other side of the pass. Snow cover is pretty deep on both sides.
- On the highest sections of the pass, the snow continues to remain in decent places even as it begins to melt quickly in July. But beginning in the middle of July, new magic begins to manifest. The first monsoon showers arrive in the valley. On the Kullu side, wildflowers start to blossom along the entire green belt.
- On either side of the trail, there may occasionally be a wildflower bed that hikers must traverse. If there is a preferred period to do the walk, it would be from the middle of July to the end of August. Green is a vivid colour in the grasslands. Wildflowers are swaying all over the slopes. On the other hand, the sky is typically overcast. Be prepared for good showers when hiking.
- Rainfall continues into the middle of September. Midway through this month, the skies begin to clear, and the first signs of autumnal colour appear on the hills. This pass is most vibrant during this time. Beautiful sunrises and sunsets may be seen here, and the snow-covered mountains tower above the clear blue skies. The journey is at its best.
Conclusion
The air becomes chiller at the end of the first week of October. The chill of early winter is present. In most camps, night time temperatures will be below zero. It can be really cold at the higher camps. Water sources get harder to find as the streams dry up. The planet is darker. The boulders had more contrast. Even though it is possible, the walk is less enjoyable in October.
