Bhaba Pass Trek: Crossing from Kinnaur to Spiti's Stark Beauty

Timings

• Best Time to Start the Trek: Early morning around 6:00 AM

Distance and How to Get There

From Major Cities:

1.   Delhi to Kafnu (Basecamp):

o   Distance: Approximately 550 km.

o   Time: Around 15-17 hours by road.

2.   Shimla to Kafnu:

o   Distance: Around 200 km.

o   Time: 7-8 hours by road.

How to Get There:

1.   By Air:

o   The nearest airport is Shimla (Jubbarhatti), located about 200 km from Kafnu.

2.   By Train:

o   The nearest railway station is Shimla or Kalka.

3.   By Road:

o   Regular buses are available from Delhi or Chandigarh to Shimla. From Shimla, you can either take a bus or hire a cab to Kafnu.

Ideal Season to Visit

• Best Season: Mid-June to Mid-October.
• The weather is pleasant with clear skies, and the meadows are lush and blooming.
• Winter Season (November onwards) brings heavy snowfall, making the trek impassable.

Trek Length

• Total Distance: 50 km (approximate).
• Duration: Typically 6-7 days, depending on the itinerary.
• Altitude: Bhaba Pass stands at an altitude of around 4,890 meters (16,043 feet).

Entry Charges

• Permit Required:
• Foreign nationals need a permit to enter the Spiti Valley area.
• There may be a small fee for trekking permits issued at the Forest Department Office in Kafnu.
• Cost: Around ₹300-₹500 for Indian nationals; ₹500-₹800 for foreigners.

Parking

• Parking at Kafnu:
• Safe and accessible parking spots available at Kafnu village, which is the base camp for the trek.
• Fee: Approximately ₹100-₹200 per day for vehicle parking.

Food Options

• During the Trek:
• Trekkers usually carry packed food or rely on organizers who provide meals. Most trek packages include food.
• Common trekking meals include dal, rice, chapatis, vegetables, and tea.
• Carry energy bars, nuts, and dry fruits for snacks during the trek.
• Kafnu Village:
• Small local eateries serve simple local food like thukpa, momos, and rajma-rice.

Stay Options

Before the Trek:

• Kafnu Village:
• Basic homestays and guesthouses are available.
• Cost: Around ₹500-₹1,000 per night.

During the Trek:

• Camping:
• Accommodation is in tents at designated campsites like Mulling, Kara, and Phustirang.
• Trekkers can either bring their own camping gear or opt for organized treks where tents, sleeping bags, and meals are provided.

After the Trek:

• Mud Village (Spiti Valley):
• Options include basic homestays with local families or guesthouses offering a cozy stay.

Activities

1.   Trekking:

o   Experience trekking through a variety of landscapes, from green meadows to barren, high-altitude deserts.

2.   Photography:

o   Capture stunning vistas, especially as you cross Bhaba Pass.

3.   Camping:

o   Spend nights under the stars at pristine campsites.

4.   River Crossing:

o   Cross the Bhaba River on foot, a thrilling experience in itself.

5.   Local Culture:

o   Interact with locals in Kafnu and Mud villages to learn about their culture and traditions.

Tips for Visitors

1.   Acclimatization:

o   Spend a day or two at Kafnu to acclimatize to the high altitude.

2.   Trekking Gear:

o   Wear sturdy trekking shoes, carry waterproof jackets, thermal wear, and a good backpack.

3.   Carry Essential Supplies:

o   Include first-aid kits, sunscreen, water bottles, and trekking poles.

4.   Fitness Level:

o   Bhaba Pass Trek is moderate to challenging, so being in good physical condition is essential.

5.   Trek in Groups:

o   It's safer and more enjoyable to trek in a group or with a guided tour.

6.   Be Prepared for Weather Changes:

o   The weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so keep extra layers handy.

Nearby Attractions

1.   Pin Valley National Park:

o   Distance: Near Mud village.

o   Attraction: Known for its unique wildlife including snow leopards and ibex.

2.   Mud Village:

o   Description: A quaint village in Spiti Valley, known for its picturesque views and warm hospitality.

3.   Tabo Monastery:

o   Distance: A few hours from Mud.