Friendship Peak Expedition is a renowned trekking peak in the Pir Panjal range of the Indian Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh. The trek derives its name from the Friendship Treaty between India and Pakistan in the 1950s. It offers a thrilling opportunity for both experienced and novice trekkers to test their limits and experience high-altitude trekking.

Day 1 – Arrival in Manali (2,050 m) → Drive to Solang Valley (2,565 m)

Distance: 13 km drive (approx. 45 minutes)

Trek Start Point: Solang Valley

Activities:

Arrive in Manali by morning.

Drive to Solang Valley and check into camp.

Meet your trek leader, get medical check-up and gear inspection.

Briefing on trekking route, acclimatization, and safety guidelines.

Stay: Camp in Solang Valley

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 – Solang Valley → Dhundi (3,150 m) → Bakarthach (3,300 m)

Distance: 8–9 km | Duration: 5–6 hours

Trail: Gradual ascent through pine forests, meadows, and alongside the Beas River.

Highlights:

Cross Dhundi — the last village on the route.

Stunning views of Hanuman Tibba and Seven Sisters Peak.

Camp set up at Bakarthach, surrounded by alpine meadows.

Stay: Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 – Acclimatization and Training Day at Bakarthach

Activities:

Acclimatization hike to higher altitudes.

Basic mountaineering training:

Use of crampons, ice axe, and ropes

Self-arrest techniques

Climbing and descending on snow

Gear distribution and safety drills.

Stay: Camp at Bakarthach

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – Bakarthach → Advanced Base Camp / Lady Leg (4,500 m)

Distance: 4 km | Duration: 4–5 hours

Trail: Steep climb over rocky and snow patches.

Highlights:

Spectacular panoramic views of Deo Tibba, Indrasan, and Hanuman Tibba.

Establish high camp (ABC) — also known as “Lady Leg.”

Early dinner and rest to prepare for the summit push.

Stay: Camp at ABC

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 – Summit Day (5,289 m) → Back to ABC

Start Early: Around midnight (12:00–1:00 AM)

Duration: 10–12 hours total (ascent + descent)

Trail: Snow slopes (30°–50° gradient), use of crampons, ropes, and ice axe.

Highlights:

Witness the sunrise over Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges.

Reach Friendship Peak summit — feel the accomplishment!

Descend carefully back to Advanced Base Camp.

Stay: Camp at ABC

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 – ABC → Bakarthach → Solang Valley

Distance: 10–11 km | Duration: 6–7 hours

Trail: Mostly descending through meadows and forest line.

Activities:

Trek down to Bakarthach, then continue to Solang.

Celebrate with your team on completing the summit!

Stay: Camp or guesthouse at Solang

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 – Solang Valley → Manali → Departure

Distance: 13 km drive

Activities:

Morning breakfast and drive back to Manali.

End of trek. Depart with summit certificate and amazing memories!

Meals: Breakfast

⚙️ Essential Gear Checklist

Trekking boots, gaiters, crampons

Down jacket, fleece, thermals

Waterproof gloves, windproof jacket

Trekking poles, sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 50+)

Personal first aid kit, hydration bladder, energy bars