FRIENDSHIP PEAK EXPEDITION 5289 METERS

About Friendship Peak Expedition?

Answer the Call of the Mountains – Your Journey to Friendship Peak

You stand at the edge of adventure, staring at the towering Friendship Peak (5,289m), where the sky kisses the snow-covered slopes. This isn’t just another trek—it’s an expedition, a true test of endurance and willpower. From the lively streets of Manali, you’ll venture deep into the Pir Panjal range, crossing meadows bursting with wildflowers, glaciers shimmering under the sun, and rugged trails that challenge even the most seasoned trekkers.
Your journey begins with gentle hikes through alpine forests, but soon, the real test begins—icy slopes, steep ascents, and a relentless climb under the midnight sky. The summit push is a battle against the cold, against fatigue, but with each step, you move closer to the top. And then, just as dawn breaks, you reach it—the peak, the prize, the moment you’ll never forget. The Himalayas stretch endlessly around you, the world below seems so far away, and you realize why only a few dare to stand here.
This is Friendship Peak. Not for the faint-hearted, but for those who crave the thrill of the climb, the rush of the challenge, and the reward of a sunrise above the clouds. Are you ready to take that first step?

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Manali to Jobra to Chika (10,100 ft)
Drive from Manali to Jobra (~2 hrs, 9,800 ft)
Trek from Jobra to Chika (~2-3 hrs, 2 km)
Gentle ascent through lush green meadows and forests
Overnight stay in tents at Chika

Day 2: Chika to Balu Ka Ghera (11,900 ft)

Walk along the Rani Nallah river, enjoying breathtaking valley views

Trek distance: ~5 km (~5-6 hrs)

Camp overnight at Balu Ka Ghera, a vast sandy plain surrounded by snow-capped mountains

Day 3: Balu Ka Ghera to Hampta Pass (14,100 ft) to Shea Goru (12,800 ft)

Trek distance: ~9 km (~8-9 hrs)

Steep ascent to Hampta Pass with stunning panoramic landscapes

Experience the contrast between the green Kullu Valley and the barren Spiti region

Descend towards Shea Goru for an overnight stay in the cold desert terrain

Day 4: Shea Goru to Chatru (11,000 ft) & Drive to Chandratal (14,100 ft)

Trek distance: ~5 km (~4-5 hrs), followed by a 3-hour drive

Trek along glaciers and rocky paths to reach Chatru

Drive to the mesmerizing Chandratal Lake (subject to road conditions)

Explore the crescent-shaped lake and its surreal beauty

Return to Chatru for an overnight camp

Day 5: Chatru to Manali via Atal Tunnel

Drive from Chatru to Manali (~6-7 hrs) via Atal Tunnel

Enjoy scenic views of Lahaul Valley and the rugged Spiti landscape

Arrive in Manali by evening, concluding the trek

Expedition Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Manali (2,050m) – Acclimatization & Preparation

Arrival in Manali via road or air. Transfer to designated hotel.
Expedition briefing covering safety, itinerary, and equipment checks.
Light acclimatization walk and rest before the trek.

Day 2: Manali to Dhundi (3,140m) to Bakarthach (3,300m) – Trek Initiation

Drive from Manali to Dhundi, the trek starting point.
Trek to Bakarthach through meadows and streams (~3-4 hours).
Overnight stay at campsite in Bakarthach.

Day 3: Bakarthach to Lady Leg Base Camp (3,900m)

Trek to base camp with gradual altitude gain (~4-5 hours).
Camp setup and acclimatization activities.
Briefing on mountaineering techniques and safety protocols.

Day 4: Acclimatization and Load Ferry

Skill training: crampon use, ice axe techniques, and rope work.
Load ferry to a higher camp to ease summit day logistics.
Medical checkup and final briefing before summit push.

Day 5: Lady Leg to Summit Camp (4,000-4,400m)

Gradual ascent to Summit Camp, setting up tents and preparing gear.
Hydration, rest, and early sleep before summit attempt.

Day 6: Summit Day – Friendship Peak (5,289m) & Return to Base Camp

Early morning summit push (starting around 2-3 AM).
Challenging ascent through snow, glaciers, and steep inclines.
Reach the summit, enjoy breathtaking Himalayan views, and celebrate.
Long descent back to Base Camp for well-deserved rest.

Day 7: Base Camp to Dhundi & Drive to Manali

Trek back to Dhundi, then drive to Manali.
Expedition debriefing, followed by a celebration dinner.

Day 8: Departure from Manali

Morning checkout and departure from Manali.

What is included in the trek ?

Accommodation in tents/hotels on twin/triple sharing basis.

All vegetarian meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 8 breakfast.

Experienced mountaineering guides and support staff.

Trekking and camping permits.

Technical gear: ropes, ice axes, crampons, and harnesses.

First aid kit and emergency oxygen.

What is not included in the trek ?

Porter services (available at extra cost).

Personal expenses.

Travel to and from Manali.

Personal trekking gear (shoes, clothing, backpack).

Insurance and emergency evacuation costs.

Things you should carry during the trek !

Essential Gear List

Health & Hygiene: Personal medications, sunscreen, hydration packs.

Clothing: Thermals, fleece jackets, windproof outerwear, gloves, and trek pants.

Footwear: High-quality trekking boots with ankle support.

Gear: Backpack (50L), trekking poles, sunglasses, headlamp.

Know Your Trek (KYT) !

Location: Pir Panjal Range, Himachal Pradesh, India
Duration: 8 Days
Starting Point: Manali
Ending Point: Manali
Maximum Altitude: 5,289 meters (17,352 feet)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Important Notes

Eco-conscious Trekking: Leave No Trace (LNT) principles are strictly followed.

Fitness: Prior high-altitude trekking experience and endurance training recommended.

Weather Considerations: The summit attempt depends on weather conditions.

Safety First: Our team ensures proper acclimatization and risk management.