Friendship Peak
Difficulty
Difficult
Duration
8 Days
Altitude
5,289 mts
Location
Pir Panjal range, Kullu
Introduction
Overview
Standing proudly at 5,289 meters (17,352 ft) in the Pir Panjal Range of Himachal Pradesh, Friendship Peak is one of India’s most popular beginner-friendly mountaineering expeditions. Located near Manali, this spectacular peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan giants, including Hanuman Tibba, Shitidhar, Deo Tibba, and Indrasan.
The expedition follows the scenic route through Dhundi, Bakarthach, and Beas Kund, gradually ascending to the summit while allowing proper acclimatization. Although no advanced technical climbing experience is required, participants receive basic mountaineering training and guidance from experienced expedition leaders. Good physical fitness, endurance, and determination are essential to successfully reach the summit.
Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast looking to take your first step into mountaineering or someone seeking an unforgettable Himalayan challenge, the Friendship Peak Expedition promises an incredible experience filled with glaciers, alpine meadows, snowfields, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Expedition Highlights
Summit Friendship Peak (5,289 m)
Beginner-friendly mountaineering expedition
Professional climbing guidance
Glacier walking experience
Camping under the Himalayan stars
Panoramic views of Hanuman Tibba, Deo Tibba & Indrasan
Trek through lush forests and alpine meadows
High-altitude camping experience
Day 1 | Arrival at Manali / Solang Valley
Arrive in Manali from Delhi or Chandigarh and proceed to Solang Valley. Meet your expedition team for registration, equipment check, and briefing about the upcoming climb.
Spend the evening preparing for the expedition and resting.
Overnight Stay: Manali / Solang
Day 2 | Solang – Dhundi – Bakarthach
After an early breakfast, drive to Dhundi, the starting point of the trek.
Begin trekking through beautiful forests, lush green valleys, and glacial streams before reaching Bakarthach, a stunning alpine meadow surrounded by snow-covered mountains.
Trek Distance: 8–10 km
Overnight Stay: Camp at Bakarthach
Day 3 | Bakarthach – Acclimatization Day
Today is reserved for acclimatization, which is crucial for adapting to higher altitudes.
The day includes short acclimatization hikes, hydration, rest, and basic training on using climbing equipment such as crampons, harnesses, ropes, and ice axes.
Overnight Stay: Bakarthach Camp
Day 4 | Bakarthach to Advance Base Camp (Lady Leg)
After breakfast, continue the trek towards the Advance Base Camp (ABC) located at Lady Leg.
The trail gradually becomes rocky and snow-covered, offering magnificent views of glaciers and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Upon arrival, set up camp and prepare for the summit phase.
Overnight Stay: Advance Base Camp
Day 5 | Summit Camp Preparation
Today is dedicated to establishing the Summit Camp.
Your guides will conduct additional mountaineering practice, safety briefings, rope techniques, and final equipment checks. Proper acclimatization and hydration remain the priority.
Rest early to prepare for the summit push.
Overnight Stay: Summit Camp
Day 6 | Advance Base Camp to Summit Camp
Continue your gradual ascent through snowfields and glacier sections to reach the designated Summit Camp.
Enjoy spectacular sunset views over the Himalayan ranges before resting for the early morning summit attempt.
Overnight Stay: Summit Camp
Day 7 | Summit Attempt – Friendship Peak (5,289 m)
Begin your summit climb before dawn.
Using basic mountaineering techniques under the supervision of experienced guides, ascend carefully across snow slopes and glacial terrain to reach the summit of Friendship Peak.
Standing atop the summit rewards you with breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
After spending some time at the summit, descend safely back towards camp.
Overnight Stay: Camp
Day 8 | Return to Manali
After breakfast, descend back through the same scenic trail towards Dhundi before driving back to Manali.
The expedition concludes with unforgettable memories of your Himalayan mountaineering adventure.
Best Time to Climb
May – June
September – October
These months provide the most stable weather and ideal snow conditions for the expedition.
Difficulty Level
Moderate to Difficult
Suitable for:
Adventure enthusiasts
First-time mountaineers
Experienced trekkers
Individuals with good physical fitness
Physical Fitness Required
Participants should be able to:
Walk 8–10 km daily with a backpack
Maintain good cardiovascular endurance
Handle long trekking hours at high altitude
Be mentally prepared for challenging weather conditions
What’s Included
Accommodation during the expedition
Experienced mountaineering guides
Camping equipment
Meals during the trek
Basic mountaineering training
Safety equipment
First-aid support
Why Choose This Expedition?
Friendship Peak is considered one of the best introductory mountaineering expeditions in India. It combines trekking, glacier travel, snow climbing, and Himalayan camping into one unforgettable adventure. With expert guidance, breathtaking scenery, and a rewarding summit experience, this expedition is the perfect stepping stone into the world of high-altitude mountaineering.






