Yunam Peak Expedition

Yunam Peak Expedition

Best Months: July August September

Overview

  • Starts from Aru Valley near Pahalgam and follows the scenic Lidder Valley through Kashmir’s alpine wilderness.
  • Passes through dense pine forests, Gujjar and Bakarwal settlements, river valleys, and vast green meadows.
  • Features the beautiful campsites of Lidderwat, Shekwas, and Homwas.
  • Includes three spectacular alpine lakes: Tarsar Lake, Marsar Lake, and Sundarsar Lake.
  • Offers the rare experience of camping near the turquoise waters of Tarsar Lake surrounded by snow-covered peaks.
  • Crosses high-altitude ridges and mountain passes with dramatic views of the surrounding Kashmir Himalayas.
  • Provides stunning views of the Kolahoi Peak, glaciers, alpine valleys, and expansive mountain landscapes.
  • Known for wildflower-filled meadows, grazing horses and sheep, crystal-clear streams, and remote Himalayan wilderness.
  • Considered a moderate trek, suitable for beginners with good fitness as well as experienced trekkers.

About Trek

Yunam Peak Expedition is one of the most exciting high-altitude climbing experiences in Himachal Pradesh. Located in the remote Lahaul region, Yunam Peak stands at approximately 6,111 metres and offers a challenging yet comparatively non-technical Himalayan summit experience.

The expedition usually begins with travel from Manali towards Bharatpur, located along the Manali–Leh Highway. Proper acclimatization is essential due to the rapid gain in altitude.

The trekking route passes through dry Trans-Himalayan landscapes, rocky valleys, moraine sections, and snow-covered slopes. The summit push is physically demanding because of the extreme altitude and long climbing hours.

From the summit, climbers can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges, including the Lahaul, Zanskar, and Ladakh mountains.

Major Attractions

• Manali
Common starting point for the expedition and preparation.

• Atal Tunnel
A major gateway connecting Manali with the Lahaul region.

• Keylong
Important town in Lahaul for acclimatization and expedition logistics.

• Bharatpur Campsite
The main high-altitude camping area near Yunam Peak.

• Yunam Peak Base Camp
Remote expedition camp surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes.

• Yunam Peak Summit
The main climbing objective at approximately 20,500 ft.

• Trans-Himalayan Landscapes
Dry valleys, rugged mountains, and spectacular high-altitude scenery.

Itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival in Manali

Arrive in Manali, rest, and complete expedition preparations, including an equipment check and briefing.

Day 2 — Manali to Keylong

Scenic drive from Manali into the Lahaul region, followed by rest and acclimatization at Keylong.

70 km | 3–4 hours

Day 3 — Keylong to Bharatpur

Continue the high-altitude road journey through dramatic Himalayan landscapes towards Bharatpur.

100 km | 4–5 hours

Day 4 — Acclimatization at Bharatpur

Take a short acclimatization hike while focusing on hydration, rest, and preparation for the upcoming trek and summit attempt.

Day 5 — Bharatpur to Yunam Peak Base Camp

Begin the trek through high-altitude terrain towards Yunam Peak Base Camp.

5–6 km trek | 4–5 hours

Day 6 — Acclimatization and Training

Focus on load ferry activities, expedition preparation, and basic snow and climbing training. Equipment and safety procedures are also reviewed before the summit push.

Day 7 — Yunam Peak Summit Attempt

Begin the summit push early in the morning and climb towards the approximately 20,500 ft summit of Yunam Peak before returning to Base Camp.

10–12 hours round trip

Day 8 — Reserve Day

Reserved for unfavorable weather conditions, contingency, or an additional summit attempt if required.

Day 9 — Base Camp to Bharatpur and Drive to Keylong

Descend from Base Camp to Bharatpur and continue by road towards Keylong for rest and recovery.

Day 10 — Keylong to Manali

Drive back through the scenic Himalayan landscapes to Manali, marking the conclusion of the Yunam Peak Expedition.

Eligibility

Participants should:

• Have excellent cardiovascular endurance
• Be comfortable trekking for long hours at high altitude
• Have previous high-altitude trekking experience
• Be properly acclimatized before the summit attempt
• Be comfortable walking on snow and rocky terrain
• Maintain healthy blood pressure and pulse rate
• Avoid participation with serious heart, kidney, liver, or respiratory conditions
• Meet expedition medical and fitness requirements

How to Reach

Starting Point

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Nearest Airport

Bhuntar Airport

Nearest Railway Station

Chandigarh Railway Station

Most expedition members travel to Manali and continue by road towards Bharatpur or Sarchu before beginning the approach towards Yunam Peak Base Camp.

Trek Essentials

Clothing

  • 1 full-sleeve and 2 half-sleeve synthetic quick-dry T-shirts

  • 1 fleece T-shirt

  • 1 wind stopper/fleece jacket

  • 1 windproof jacket

  • 1 down feather/hollow jacket

  • 1 pair thermal innerwear (upper & lower)

  • 2 synthetic quick-dry trekking pants

  • 1 wind stopper/fleece pant

  • 1 pair waterproof gloves

  • 1 pair fleece/woollen gloves

  • 1 poncho/waterproof jacket and pants

Head Gear

  • 1 head torch

  • 1 sun cap

  • 1 woollen cap

  • 1 balaclava

  • 1 synthetic and 1 woollen buff/neck gaiter

  • Sunglasses with UV protection and side cover
    (Contact lenses are preferable; photochromatic glasses can also be used.)

Footwear

  • 1 pair water-resistant trekking shoes with good ankle support and grip

  • 1 pair floaters/flip-flops

  • 6 pairs cotton socks

  • 1 pair woollen socks

  • 1 pair gaiters (provided when required)

  • 1 pair micro spikes (provided when required)

Backpack & Basic Gear

  • 50–60 L backpack with rain cover and comfortable shoulder straps

  • 20–30 L daypack if your main luggage is being offloaded

  • At least 1 walking stick

  • 2 one-litre water bottles or hydration pack

  • Small tiffin/lunch box

  • Energy bars, dry fruits and electrolytes/ORS

  • Personal medical kit as advised by your doctor

Personal Essentials

  • Sunscreen

  • Moisturizer

  • Chapstick/lip balm

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Toilet paper and wipes

  • Soap/hand sanitizer

  • Antibacterial powder

  • Quick-dry towel

Tip: Carry proper layered clothing, weather protection, sturdy trekking shoes, and sufficient hydration to stay comfortable and prepared throughout the trek.

Cancellation Policy

Refund percentages vary depending on cancellation timing:

  • Earlier cancellations receive higher refunds/vouchers.
  • Emergency situations may qualify for special refund consideration.

FAQs

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