The first light of dawn peeks over the snow-capped peaks, casting a golden glow on the sleepy village of Tosh. You take a deep breath, the crisp mountain air filling your lungs, as you sip on a steaming cup of chai at Yellowjackets Hostel. The valley stretches out before you, inviting you into its wilderness. The mountains whisper tales of adventure, and you can’t help but wonder—where will your journey take you today?
Tosh, a hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh’s Parvati Valley, is more than just a picturesque hamlet. It’s the perfect base for exploring some of the most breathtaking treks in the Himalayas. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned trekker, there’s a trail here waiting for you. Let’s set off on a journey through the best treks from Tosh, unraveling their routes, difficulty levels, and costs to help you plan your next adventure.
Table of Contents
A Journey into the Wild: Trekking from Tosh
- Kheerganga Trek
- Kutla Trek
- Animal Pass Trek
- Pin Parvati Pass Trek
- Rashol Pass Trek
1. Kheerganga Trek – The Path to the Hot Springs
The sun climbs higher as you set foot on the Kheerganga trail, one of the most popular treks from Tosh. The path winds through dense pine forests, past cascading waterfalls, and across wooden bridges. Along the way, you hear the soothing hum of the Parvati River, a constant companion on your journey.
As you reach Rudranag, a mesmerizing waterfall greets you, offering a perfect pit stop. The real reward, however, awaits at the top—Kheerganga’s famed hot water springs. Imagine soaking in the naturally warm water, gazing at snow-capped peaks surrounding you. It’s a rejuvenation like no other.
Route & Distance:
Tosh → Barshaini → Rudranag → Kheerganga (12 km, 4-5 hours one way)
Difficulty Level:
East to Moderate
Cost:
- Self-guided trek: ₹500-₹800 (food & stay at basic camps)
- With a guide: ₹1,500-₹2,000 per person (including stay & meals)
Best Time to Visit:
April to June & September to November
2. Kutla Trek – The Hidden Hamlet
You decide to take a break from the bustling tourist trails and embark on a short yet rewarding hike to Kutla. As you leave Tosh behind, the sounds of civilization fade, replaced by birdsong and the rustling of leaves. The trail leads through apple orchards and old wooden houses, where the scent of pine and fresh earth fills the air.
Kutla is a peaceful village tucked away in the mountains, where time seems to stand still. You settle down at a local dhaba, sipping hot chai while taking in the spectacular views of the valley below. It’s the perfect trek for those seeking solitude without venturing too far.
Route & Distance:
Tosh → Kutla Village (3 km, 1-1.5 hours one way)
Difficulty Level:
Easy
Cost:
- Self-guided trek: ₹300-₹500 (meals at local dhabas)
- Homestay in Kutla: ₹800-₹1,500 per night
Best Time to Visit:
March to November
3. Animal Pass Trek – The Road Less Traveled
For those who crave an offbeat adventure, Animal Pass is the ultimate challenge. The trail takes you through meadows carpeted with wildflowers, steep rocky ascents, and untouched glaciers. The higher you go, the more surreal the landscape becomes—vast, silent, and awe-inspiring.
Very few trekkers venture here, making it a paradise for solitude seekers. At the top, the view of the Parvati Glacier is unlike anything you’ve ever seen—a mesmerizing blend of ice and mist stretching endlessly into the horizon.
Route & Distance:
Tosh → Kheerganga → Tunda Bhuj → Thakur Kuan → Animal Pass (35 km, 4-5 days round trip)
Difficulty Level:
Difficult
Cost:
With a guide and camping gear: ₹8,000-₹12,000 per person
Best Time to Visit:
June to September
4. Pin Parvati Pass Trek – The Ultimate Himalayan Challenge
For those who seek the grandest of Himalayan adventures, the Pin Parvati Pass trek is the ultimate test. This trans-Himalayan expedition takes you from the lush greenery of Parvati Valley to the stark, barren beauty of Spiti Valley.
The trail includes river crossings, glacier walks, and steep ascents through high-altitude landscapes. At 17,457 feet, the Pin Parvati Pass offers a breathtaking panorama that few ever witness. It’s not just a trek; it’s an odyssey.
Route & Distance:
Tosh → Kheerganga → Tunda Bhuj → Mantalai Lake → Pin Parvati Pass → Spiti Valley (110 km, 9-11 days)
Difficulty Level:
Very Difficult
Cost:
With a guide and trek support: ₹35,000-₹50,000 per person
Best Time to Visit:
July to September
5. Rashol Pass Trek – A Walk Through Mystery
The Rashol Pass trek is not just about the journey but also the legends surrounding it. Some say that outsiders who stay too long in Rashol village experience eerie occurrences. But don’t let the myths deter you—the route is mesmerizing.
You trek through thick pine forests, pass hidden streams, and cross wooden bridges straight out of a fairytale. At the summit, a misty valley unfolds before you, making the effort worth it.
Route & Distance:
Tosh → Kasol → Rashol Pass (10 km, 5-6 hours one way)
Difficulty Level:
Moderate
Cost:
- Self-guided trek: ₹500-₹1,000 (for food & stay)
- With a guide: ₹2,000-₹3,000 per person
Best Time to Visit:
April to October
Why Yellowjackets Hostel is Your Perfect Base Camp
🏔 Prime Location: Ideal starting point for all major treks
🔥 Cozy Stay: Dorms and private rooms with stunning valley views
🎶 Community Vibes: Meet fellow travelers & share trekking stories
🥘 Delicious Food: Fuel up before or after your trek
Final Thoughts: Which Trek Will You Choose?
From the soothing hot springs of Kheerganga to the untamed beauty of Animal Pass, Tosh offers a trek for every traveler. Whether you’re a first-time explorer or a seasoned trekker, each trail promises a unique adventure.
So, tie your laces, grab your backpack, and answer the call of the mountains. And when the journey ends, let Yellowjackets Hostel be your home in the Himalayas.
🚀 Ready to trek? Book your stay and begin your adventure today!