Darati Pass Trek

Life is unpredictable and we understand that sometimes you have to cancel or change your trip dates and we endeavour to make it as easy as possible for you. However, please understand that we plan everything including guide fees, permits, accommodation and rations in advance. Therefore, any cancellation means inconvenience and certain losses to the people involved in various stages of the programme. Keeping that in mind, our cancellation charges are as below -

• Cancellations before 30 days from the start of the event: Get a monetary refund with 15% of cancellation charges.

• Cancellations between 30 days and 15 days to the start of the event: 50 %refund.

• Cancellations less than 15 days to the start of the event: No refund.

• Cancellations will be accepted only by email.

Note: The Himalayan Daredevils reserves the right to cancel a program before departure in the event of logistical problems arising due to natural calamities, strikes, wars or any other circumstances that make the event inadvisable. In this case, we will refund 50% of the event fees.

Itinerary Changes &Trip delays:

We plan itineraries based on the information available at the time of planning and in rare circumstances, they are subject to change. If the itinerary is changed or delayed due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, transportation delays, government intervention, landslides etc., we will always aim to give you the best experience possible. However, The Himalayan Daredevils not be held responsible for the cost of delay or changes.

For Bookings made from Third Party Websites:

• The client is responsible for communicating with a third party (booking website) for cancellation.

• Cancellation / Refund is done by a third party based on their policies. 

The Darati Pass Trek is a little-known spot in the big Pir Panjal range of Himachal Pradesh. It links the far-off valleys of Chamba and Pangi. This lesser-known trek gives us a mix of clear nature, wild rides, and raw Himalayan beauty. It sits high, about 4,700 meters up (15,420 feet), so not many have been there. It is a great path for expert trekkers who love silence and raw wild lands. The path starts from the nice village of Holi in Chamba and goes up slowly through thick pine and deodar woods, high fields, and fast mountain rivers. The land quickly changes as you near the pass, green turns to rocky ground and icy slopes. On the way, trekkers see wide views of snow-topped peaks, parts of the big Himalayan range, and the untouched beauty of faraway Himachal homes. What makes the Darati Pass Trek stand out is its rich culture. Trekkers see the life of the Gaddi tribe, shepherds in the area. They are warm, and their tales add a strong local feel to the trek. The camp spots are basic and far-off, great for those who love a true out-of-town trip with no new comforts. This medium to hard trek needs good health and a strong mind, mostly in crossing the pass, which may need walking over snow and going up and down sharp slopes. But the great views and the feeling of doing it are all worth it.

History of Darati Pass Trek

Long ago, the Darati Pass, also known as "Dharati Pass" or "Dharati Ghati,” was an important mountain link between the Chamba valley and the tough Pangi area in Himachal Pradesh. Up at about 4,700 meters (15,420 feet), this high mountain pass was more than just a way; it shaped the movements of people, trade, culture, and living in one of the West Himalayas’ toughest places. For years, the local Gaddis and Pangwals moving shepherd groups used this pass for their seasonal moves. These tough people went over Darati with their sheep and goats, moving between the green fields of Chamba in summer and the milder Pangi valley in winter. This moving life made their culture, money ways, and spiritual life, and the past became a key part of who they were. On these paths, they also took tales, rituals, local cures, and trade goods like wool, ghee, and food, making a special cross-cultural mix. While it was never a big trade path like Rohtang or Baralacha La, Darati Pass was key for local trade. It was a lifeline for cut-off towns, especially in times of local fights, tribe issues, or natural disasters when roads were out or not there. The trek was often the only way to send notes or get medical help across valleys. British map-makers in the 19th century wrote down brief notes on the pass while marking the area’s shape, though it never got the focus that other big Himalayan paths did. This lack of fame helped keep its untouched feel, but also kept it off the known trek maps.

In the past years, as roads started to reach the far Pangi Valley via the Saach Pass and other new ways, the need for the Darati Pass went down. But, its pull as a trekking path went up. Adventure lovers, wanting to go beyond the well-travelled paths of Himachal, are finding Darati for its raw beauty, physical test, and deep local feel. Still mostly unknown and unchanged, the path keeps its old feel, letting trekkers walk in the steps of shepherd travellers. Today, the Darati Pass Trek is a living tradition route that rings with the voices of Gaddi shepherds, the sound of old winds over the tops, and the deep link between mountain and man. Its past importance may not be marked by big stones or fights, but in the quiet push of many who needed it, Darati Pass stays a mark of lasting change and living in peace with nature. Ideal for thrill-lovers and explorers, the Darati Pass Trek is best done between June and September, when the snow is gone and the weather is good. For those looking for a less-used path, this trek offers a deeply heart-moving trip through one of Himachal’s most pure places.

Nearby Places around Darati Pass

• Holi Village: Holi Village is the start point for the Darati Pass Trek and sits in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. It is set among thick pine woods and by the bright Ravi River, offering a real peek into life in a Himachal village. This small place is known for its old wooden temples, steps of farms, and the open hearts of the Gaddi folk. Many who trek here stay a night to get used to the area before they start their climb.

• Chamba Town: About 60 km from Holi, Chamba is the centre of history and culture for this part. This town is famed for its ancient temples, like the Lakshmi Narayan Temple group, and has a large, open walk space at its heart. Chamba is also an important spot for supplies and trips for trekkers heading to the high paths and far valleys.

• Pangi Valley: Across the Darati Pass, you find the lesser-known Pangi Valley. Loved for its wild views, tribal ways, and woodwork, Pangi gives a pure, wild look at the Himalayas. The valley hosts far-off spots like Killar and Sural, where days tick by slowly and in the old style. For the bold, it holds secrets and sheer wild charm.

• Saach Pass: This is another high mountain path connecting Chamba to the Pangi Valley, close to Darati Pass. Saach is open for cars in warm months and is famed for its exciting paths and beautiful sights. It is often a choice path for reaching or leaving the Pangi area and adds more to explore for those keen on crossing several high passes.

• Bairagarh: A small town on the way from Chamba to Saach Pass, Bairagarh opens into the Pangi Valley through Saach Pass. It's a calm, pretty spot, good for a rest for those moving deeper into the mountains. Around it, you find great spots for short walks, bird spotting, and taking photos.

• Manimahesh Lake: Set in the Pir Panjal range, not far from Chamba, Manimahesh Lake is a holy place with ties to Lord Shiva. It pulls thousands each year for the Manimahesh Yatra. Trekkers looking to add to their trip or find peace will find this ice-ringed lake a quiet, holy spot.

Best Time to Visit Darati Pass

• June to Mid-July – Trek Season Starts: This time marks the trek season's start as snow melts and paths open up. Fields turn green, flowers bloom, and skies are clear, good for wide mountain views. Yet, nights can stay cold up high.

• Mid-July to August – Rain Time: This is the full rain time in Himachal Pradesh. The Pangi side gets less rain for its dry spot, but Chamba and the lower parts can have heavy rain, making paths slippery and possibly blocked. Trekkers must take care and be ready.

• September to Mid-October – Clear Skies: This time is seen as the best for Darati Pass Treks. The skies clear, the air freshens, and the moist paths dry. The last rains make the green pop, and snow peaks stand tall. The weather is cool and nice, best for trekking alone or with a camera.

• Mid-October to May – Snow Covers: In these months, Darati Pass is snowy and not right for trekking. Snow blocks paths, and cold dips far down. Only skilled climbers with the right gear should consider visiting when local help.

How to Reach Darati Pass

• By Airport: Gaggal Airport near Dharamshala, about 200 km from the Holi village start point, is the nearest air stop. It links to big places like Delhi and Chandigarh. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Chamba and then to Holi on the road.

• By Railway Station: The closest train stop is at Pathankot, about 170 km from Chamba. It joins big spots like Delhi, Amritsar, and Jammu. From Pathankot, take a bus or taxi to Chamba, then head to Holi village.

• By Road: Chamba is linked by road to Holi, where the Darati Pass Trek starts. Reach Chamba by state or private buses from places like Pathankot, Dalhousie, or Dharamshala. From Chamba, local jeeps or private taxis will take you to Holi, about 60–70 km away, over some rough roads.

Why Book with escape2explore

When exploring the Darati Pass Trek and beyond, escape2explore stands out as a trusted name in adventure and experiential travel. Here’s why hundreds of travellers choose us for their getaways:

• Trusted, Well-Reviewed Local Operator: escape2explore has gained the trust of thousands of content tourists all over India. With persistent positive feedback and an unblemished reputation for delivering quality experiences, we assure you that your experience will be hassle-free, memorable, and value-packed. Our insider local knowledge guarantees that you will always be in safe hands.

• Seasoned Guides: Our trips are led by friendly, trained, and professional guides who are passionate about the outdoors and your safety. Whether it's a beach trek, a cultural tour, or a spiritual walk through temples, our team knows the terrain, the stories, and how to make each moment count.

• Safe & Curated Itineraries: Your safety is our number one priority. Our tour packages are thoughtfully crafted with safety measures, researched accommodations, and easy travel arrangements. We take care of the details so you can have the experience hassle-free and worry-free.

• Unique Experience That You Won't Find Anywhere Else: With escape2explore, you discover more than the tourist attractions. We go off the beaten track with hidden beaches, unusual treks, offbeat cultural destinations, and true interactions.