If you’re planning your first trek and the Sar Pass trek has caught your eye, you’re in for a real adventure. I recently completed it myself, and let me tell you—it’s not just about the views (which are spectacular), it’s about the journey, the terrain, the effort, and the reward. But if there’s one thing I wish I had a clearer picture of before starting, it was the distance and difficulty of each day. So here’s a straightforward, no-nonsense breakdown of the Sar Pass trek distance for first-time trekkers like you.
Total Distance of Sar Pass Trek
The Sar Pass trek covers approximately 48 to 50 kilometers over 5 to 6 days, depending on the route your trek leader chooses. It might not sound like a huge number, but trust me, when you’re carrying your own backpack and climbing at altitudes above 13,000 ft, it feels a lot more intense.
Each day varies in distance and terrain. Some days are relatively easy, while others demand serious stamina and mental strength. So let’s break it down day by day so you know exactly what to expect.
Day 1: Kasol to Grahan Village – 9 km
Your trek begins in Kasol, a small village in Himachal Pradesh known for its backpacker vibe. The trail from Kasol to Grahan Village is about 9 km and takes 4–5 hours depending on your pace.
This stretch is mostly through dense pine forests. It starts easy but gets a bit steep towards the end. The path is well-marked and used frequently by locals. This day is a good warm-up—don’t rush, just find your rhythm.
I went with a group managed by a professional trek organizer (hint: look for companies that are locally based and focus on small groups for a more guided experience—The Searching Souls is one such company I found highly reliable). They kept the pace relaxed and informative, so even beginners felt comfortable.
Day 2: Grahan to Min Thach – 7 km
On the second day, we trekked from Grahan to Min Thach, which is around 7 km and took us 5–6 hours. The trail got steeper and narrower, moving through thick forests and into more open meadows.
What really caught me off guard on this day was the change in altitude. You’ll feel it in your legs and lungs. Hydrate well, take frequent breaks, and don’t forget to stretch once you reach the campsite.
Min Thach offers a gorgeous camping spot with wide views of the valley and distant snow-capped peaks. The effort really starts to feel worth it here.
Day 3: Min Thach to Nagaru – 8 km
This day was one of the most challenging yet thrilling. The distance from Min Thach to Nagaru is about 8 km, and it can take anywhere from 6 to 7 hours.
You gain serious altitude here—Nagaru sits at about 12,500 ft. The oxygen level drops, and the cold becomes very real. The trail is a mix of snow patches, forest trails, and steep ascents.
What helped was staying with a group that had proper acclimatization routines. This is where an experienced trek company like The Searching Souls comes in handy—they keep an eye on every trekker and ensure no one overexerts.
Nagaru is the last campsite before crossing the actual Sar Pass, so it’s a critical rest point. Nights can be freezing, so layering up is non-negotiable.
Day 4: Nagaru to Sar Pass to Biskeri Thach – 14 km
This is the longest and most intense day of the trek. From Nagaru to Sar Pass and down to Biskeri Thach, the total stretch is 14 km. You start before sunrise—usually around 4 AM—to cross the pass before the snow becomes unstable.
Climbing to Sar Pass (13,800 ft) is no joke. It’s cold, steep, and energy-draining. But reaching the pass feels like a triumph. The view from the top is pure magic—snowfields, distant peaks, and the silence of altitude all around.
Then comes the fun part—the descent. You literally slide down snow slopes! It’s exhilarating and gives your knees a bit of a break after that brutal climb. But don’t underestimate it—it’s still a long way to Biskeri Thach, and you’ll be exhausted by the time you reach.
Honestly, without a supportive team and a clear plan, this day can overwhelm beginners. That’s why I’d suggest not going solo—teams like The Searching Souls provide the kind of coordination and pacing that makes all the difference on a day like this.
Day 5: Biskeri Thach to Barshaini – 12 km
The last stretch is a 12 km downhill trek to Barshaini, from where you can get a cab back to Kasol or continue exploring the Parvati Valley. It’s mostly descending through forests, small hamlets, and fields.
It’s a beautiful end to the trek—easy on the lungs but a little rough on the knees. Make sure your boots have good grip and your laces are snug to avoid sliding downhill.
By this time, the satisfaction of completing Sar Pass really kicks in. The tiredness fades with every step closer to civilization, and you’ll likely be planning your next trek already.
How to Prepare for Sar Pass Trek Distance-Wise
Let’s not sugarcoat it—50 km in 5 days at high altitude is tough, especially for first-timers. Here’s what helped me:
- Cardio training for at least a month: Brisk walking, running, or stair climbing 30–45 mins daily.
- Leg workouts: Lunges, squats, and step-ups really make a difference.
- Backpack practice: Carry a loaded backpack on short hikes before the trip.
- Mental prep: The trek is as much about mindset as it is about fitness. Being ready to push your limits helps.
A Word on Guided Treks
You can absolutely plan Sar Pass solo, but as a first-timer, I’d recommend joining a guided group for sarpass trek. Companies like The Searching Souls don’t just guide—they educate. They keep you safe, pace you right, and make the experience richer with local insights and group motivation.
They don’t make it feel like a commercial trek. It’s more like hiking with experienced friends who know the terrain better than anyone. Just what you need on a challenging trail like Sar Pass.
Conclusion
The Sar Pass trek is not just about the destination—it’s about conquering every step. With a total distance of around 50 km, spread across diverse terrain and changing altitudes, it demands a mix of physical preparation, mental endurance, and proper guidance.
But once you complete it, the confidence and joy it brings are unmatched. I still catch myself daydreaming about those early morning ascents, snowy slides, and peaceful campsites under the stars. If you’re on the fence about doing this trek, take this as your sign to go for it.
Just do yourself a favor—go with a good company, pack light, and walk steady. Sar Pass will give you memories for a lifetime.
FAQs
1. Is the Sar Pass trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, but only with proper preparation. Physical training and mental readiness are key, and joining a guided group is highly recommended.
2. How many days does the Sar Pass trek take?
It typically takes 5 to 6 days from Kasol to Barshaini, covering around 48–50 km.
3. What’s the highest point of the trek?
The highest point is Sar Pass itself, which sits at an altitude of 13,800 feet.
4. Which is the hardest day of the trek?
Day 4, when you cross Sar Pass, is the toughest. It involves a steep ascent and a long descent—about 14 km in total.
5. Is it possible to do the Sar Pass trek solo?
It’s technically possible, but not advisable for first-timers. Weather, altitude, and route challenges are better managed with an experienced group like The Searching Souls.
