How to Plan your Trip to Sach Pass – Himachal

by Vargis.Khan

Other than a couple of passes in Ladakh; one pass that has always been considered extremely tough is Sach Up until a few years ago; only a handful of people had traveled across it and its treacherous terrain was a legend. Such was its status that the term “Grand Daddy of All Passes” was long awarded to Sach Pass. With time, more and more people now have been that way and while the pass may now have lost the legend status a bit; there is no changing the fact that it is still one place that can make your heart jump in to your mouth over and over again. In this article, I will provide details on how you can plan your trip to Sach Pass including details like how many days you would need, road condition, accommodation, followed by a suggested itinerary.

sach pass top

Sach Pass Top

A trip to Sach Pass means that you will be driving on a narrow badly broken dirt road, with a steep ascent; through numerous water streams; some of which so deep that you might as well just swim across. Add to it the fact that there are several waterfalls on the way; falling right on the road.  Landslides and slush is way too common a thing.  Lose rocks are spread all across the way. If you are traveling early in the season; then 20 to 30 ft of snow walls will be on both sides of the road. Yes, this is Sach Pass. A dream journey for anyone who has interest in either adventure or off-roading. What are some of the things that you should prepare for before going that way? Below is a list.

For a brief introduction, Sach Pass (also referred to as Saach Pass) is a high altitude pass in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. At a height of 4,420 meters, it connects the Chamba Valley with Pangi Valley. The Pass opens after snow is cleared sometime by late June each year and closes by early or Mid-October. Running at a total length of 170 kilometers, the route across Sach is the shortest and toughest from Chamba to Killar. It is usually the last pass to open for traffic and the first one to receive snow.

Sach Pass Weather

Cold is the word that describes the weather at Sach Pass the best throughout the year. It remains buried in snow for about 8 months a year and even during the remaining 4 months, snow still remains around the top.




During monsoon, rain plays havoc on the entire route causing landslides and a lot of slush. Winds are extremely cold and fierce at the top of the pass. From January till June, it is closed so you cannot even go that way. In late June there is still a high chance of snowfall at Sach top. From Mid July till August it is all monsoon and it can rain anytime of the day, even for hours at stretch. With September cold starts to settle in and pass closes by Mid-October after it starts to snow again.

Sach Pass Temperature

Between June and October; temperature will be moderate until you start getting close to top of the pass. Around Bairagarh and Killar, it will be cold but not way too much. At top of the pass however, cold winds keep the temperature low. Nights in the entire region are cold and temperature at Sach top can dip to zero degrees even during summer.

Sach Pass Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Sach Pass will either be between 1st and 15th July or in September. As I mentioned previously in the article; pass gets declared open sometime after 15th June. Travelling immediately after will mean that you will come across numerous furious water streams caused by melting snow. Roads at this time will be in worst ever state. If you travelled after July 15th and in August, you will encounter rain throughout your trip. There is going to be a lot of slush and possible landslides on the road; due to which may even get closed.

Distance between Sach Pass and nearby towns

Mentioned below are distances between Sach Pass and some of the known nearby towns that you will be crossing during your journey.

  • Dalhousie to Sach Pass Distance: 150 Kilometers
  • Chamba to Sach pass distance: 120 Kilometers
  • Manali to Sach pass distance: 270 Kilometers
  • Bairagarh to Sach pass distance: 60 Kilometers
  • Killar to Sach pass distance: 40 Kilometers
  • Udaipur to Sach pass distance: 110 Kilometers
  • Keylong to Sach Pass distance: 155 Kilometers
  • Kishtwar to Sach pass distance: 150 Kilometers
  • Delhi to Sach Pass Distance: 710 Kilometers
How to reach Sach Pass

There are two routes that you can take to reach Sach. The journey to Sach Pass is usually done in form of circuit; of which either Dalhousie or Chamba become the starting point and Manali as exit point; or vice versa. A lot of people however travel via Dalhousie and return the same way as well. Starting from Dalhousie, you will reach Bairagarh and then continue towards Satrundi. At Satrundi; you will have to register yourself at the check post before continuing to Sach top which is about 30 kilometers from here. From the top, you will then begin your descent towards Killar, continue to Udaipur from there and exit on Manali Leh highway at Keylong.

If you are starting from Manali then you will follow the same route vice versa. You will cross Rohtang Pass and then reach Keylong; from where you will take the diversion towards Udaipur and continue to Sach via Killar. On the other side, you will descend towards Bairagarh and continue to Dalhousie.

Sach Pass Route

Route of the journey is as mentioned below.

Dalhousie/Chamba – Tissa – Bairagarh – Kalaban – Satrundi – Sach Pass – Killar – Udaipur – Keylong – Khoksar – Rohtang Pass – Marhi – Manali

This however is the longer route and should be taken only if you are interested in visiting Dalhousie or Chamba. If only Sach Pass is on your mind then you should avoid both Dalhousie and Chamba. Route from Pathankot then would be,

Pathankot – Banikhet – Chamera Lake/Dam – Koti – Tissa – Bairagarh – Satrundi – Sach Pass

The climb from Dalhousie towards Sach Pass is relatively easier than the climb from Udaipur and Killar. This is also one of the reasons why people chose to start from Dalhousie and end their journey at Manali.

Sach Pass Road Conditions

No matter which month you travel in, road conditions at and around Sach Pass are always terrible. As soon as the pass is declared open, there are numerous rivulets caused by melting snow. At several stretches, you will find a waterfall falling down right in middle of a road which is barely wide enough for one car. Come July; the monsoon arrives and the situations worsens. Rain not only adds to all the water streams and waterfalls but also creates a serious risk of landslides all across the route. Slush is way too common during this time. After Monsoon, September is probably the only time when the road conditions get a little better. And by better I only mean lesser water streams to cross because it is still just a dirt track you will travel on. Road between Bairagarh and Killar is the worst stretch of all.

Road from Dalhousie until Tissa will be a mix of good and bad. Real fun starts after Tissa when the road turns in to a narrow dirt trail and Tar disappears. As you get closer to Bairagarh, you will start coming across water streams, waterfalls and landslide prone areas. After Bairagarh, fun turns in to a nightmare as the difference between “Road” and “No Road” vanishes. Furious water streams, slush, lose rocks, landslide points, steep ascent and very tricky turns and stretches will become the very thing you will be driving on. You will breath a sigh of relief once you reach Sach Top thinking it is over but the truth is that you haven’t yet seen the worse of it.

The moment you start descending towards Killar, you will come across Bagotu Nallah which (if fully flooded) will send a shiver down your spine. If you are in a hatchback or Sedan, your car will hate you forever for bringing it here. The road condition until Killar is extremely nightmarish and possibly the worst you ever been on. After Killar, it improves a bit but still remains a dirt trail until Udaipur. There will still be slush, a few violent water crossings including the Madgran Nallah which again will have you thinking for a minute about how to cross. From Udaipur however, until Manali via Keylong & Tandi, it will mostly be good with an exception of road around Rohtang top which will again be extremely bad.

Preferred Vehicle for Sach Pass Trip

Sach Pass by Car: Trust me I have seen locals driving a Maruti Alto here but that is something best left for the locals only. If you own a hatchback or a Sedan, I would advise against taking it to Sach unless you are extremely good at the wheel and can manage it through without the belly of your car hitting the ground. The best vehicle for the terrain would an SUV with good ground clearance. It doesn’t have to be a 4×4 really but if it is, then it’s cherry on the top. If traveling by a 4×4 or any other SUV, you can go in any of the 4 months that the pass is open. If however you are planning by a Sedan or Hatchback, best wait for the monsoon to leave and plan your journey sometime in September.

Sach Pass by Motorcycle: If traveling by motorcycle however, the only thing you need to ensure is that it is well serviced before starting on the trip. You do not necessarily need a Royal Enfield 500 CC; I have a friend who went to Sach Pass on 150 CC Pulsar. Just get your motorcycle checked thoroughly and whatever seems dicey, replace it. After Bairagarh and until Udaipur, there are several places where you can get stranded and something as simple as a flat Tyre can be catastrophic. If you can then carry a foot pump, spare tube and learn how to replace it; especially if you are riding solo.

Clothes to pack for Sach Pass trip

Even though it will be cold, you do not really need to carry all heavy woolens for the journey. If traveling by car; plenty of cottons, few woolens and a heavy wind proof jacket will do the trick. Gloves and a monkey cap or any other cap for that matter that can cover your head and ears is must. Carry a muffler if your jacket is not covering your neck.

Problem occurs when you are traveling by a motorcycle. The first and most important thing you need to do is waterproof everything; no matter which month you are traveling in. If it’s not the rain then the water streams will get you wet at one point or another. Buy a thick water proof jacket & gloves if you do not already have them. Carry at least two pair of shoes and plenty of socks. If traveling in late July or August, get a rain gear that can take the beating for hours if required.

While packing your bag, get as many plastic bags as you can. First put your clothes and belongings in a plastic bag and then put it in your waterproof bag. Before you rope it around the motorcycle, get one of those black polythene sheets from any of the nearby hardware stores. Wrap the bag in it and then mount it on the motorcycle. It will not only protect it from the water but also from dust. Use both bungee cords and a nylon rope to secure your luggage on your motorcycle. Due to the continuous movement on bad roads, bungee cords may not be able to firmly hold your luggage in one place so get a nylon rope as well.

Remember, even if there is no rain, you will still have to cross a few water streams and your bag will get wet and dirty if you did not pack it well as I mentioned above. Carry a few extra plastic bags to put in your phone an wallets if required.

Guest Houses & Hotels Near Sach Pass

Both the Chamba Valley and Pangi Valley are well populated areas and there is accommodation available in form of guest houses and hotels at almost every town / village. Below is a list of places where you can find accommodation on the route.

Dalhousie: Being one of the most famous hill stations of our country, there are ample amount of hotels here within any budget.

Bairagarh: There is a PWD rest house here which in my option is the best place to stay. The only drawback however is that there are no meal arrangements at this rest house. Even for a cup of tea you will have to walk a couple of kilometers to Bairagarh village because the rest house is a bit on the outskirts.
There are also a couple of basic but good hotels in Bairagarh. Hotel Mannat (Phone: 098577 93744)and Hotel Chamunda (Phone: 098161 99189) are both equally good.

Killar: There is a PWD rest house near Killar where you can stay. If not, Chamunda Hotel (Phone: 9418497910 / 94184 72356) is in Killar as well where you can stay.

Udaipur: There are a few guest houses and hotels in Udaipur of which Amandeep Guest House (Phone 094598 28460) is a decent enough stay.

Keylong: A major halt point on Manali Leh highway; has a lot of hotels that will fit in any budget.

Apart from the hotels, below is a list of PWD Rest houses around Sach Pass.

  • PWD Rest House, Shour (54 kilometers from Udaipur), Phone: 01897 -222247
  • Forest Rest House, Purthi (58 kilometers from Udaipur)
  • Inspection Hut, Sach Khas (40 kilometers from Killar)
  • Forest Rest House, Mindhal (12 kilometers from Killar)
  • Inspection Hut, Sural (25 kilometers from Killar)
  • PWD Rest House, Killar, Phone: 01897-222223
  • HPPWD Rest House, Sach (13 kilometers from Killar)
  • PWD Rest House, Cherry (14 kilometers from Killar)
  • HPPWD Rest House, Dharwas (9 kilometers from Killar)
  • IPH Rest House, Sural (25 kilometers from Killar )
Mobile Connectivity at and around Sach Pass

Until Bairagarh, no matter which network you are on, your phone will work fine. As you start moving towards Sach Pass, you will go off the network. Only exception is BSNL which has the largest connectivity here. If you have a BSNL connection, you may still remain connected but the connection will be inconsistent and voice clarity will be bad. For all other service providers, you will be off the network after leaving Bairagarh and will not be back on it until you get closer to Manali.

Petrol Station and ATMs around Sach Pass

Withdraw cash at any ATM that you come across before Bairagarh and carry enought that could last a few days. Do not even wait until you get closer to Bairagarh, just withdraw it either at home or when you are around Koti / Dalhousie / Chamba. There is one ATM at Killar but the last time I was there, it was not functional. The last petrol pump en route is Batt Filling Station, about 20 kilometers before Bairagarh. After this, there is no other gas station until Tandi on Manali Leh highway. There are a couple of Dhabas on the way, one near Satrundi and another near Bagotu where you can eat but it will mostly just be Maggie or tea.

Minimum Time Needed for Sach Pass Trip

A minimum of 4 days is required for a trip to Sach Pass from Delhi, even though it can be done in 3 days as well if you are up for 15-16 hours of rides on first and third day. A travel plan and Itinerary is explained in next part of this article.

Sach Pass Itinerary

Please click HERE to take you to next part of this article, Sach Itinerary – A detailed travel plan for 3, 4, 5 and 6 days. I have explained how you can plan your itinerary in this article.

I hope this information regarding planning a trip to Sach Pass was helpful. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below or at our Community Forum and I will be glad to answer.

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111 comments

Amit June 11, 2022 - 9:10 am

Hi

I want to go Sach Pass this October.Can you pls guide me for the same.

Reply
Manish sharma May 10, 2022 - 10:02 pm

Hi Vargis,
I’m planning to go to Manai from Udhampur via Kishtwar killar road on KTM adventure 250 cc solo at the end of May. I’m planning my travel as follows
Day 1: Udhampur to Kishtwar (27 May)
Day 2: Kishtwar to Udaipur(28 May)
Day 3 : Kishtwar to Manali(29 May)
What doubts I’m getting is that is it the correct time to travel?
Should I carry fuel along with me?
What things (small or big) should I carry along with me?

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Nilesh July 8, 2021 - 4:06 am

Hi.
Which is better ? Killar to chamba or chamba to killar ? Going firat time and with family. Will like to drive on mountain side rather than valley side.

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Vargis.Khan July 8, 2021 - 7:59 am

It does not matter really which route you take. It is scenic nonttheless

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Aditya Kumar Kanoongo June 27, 2021 - 6:58 pm

Hi. Sir i am going planning to take my creta 1.6 sx o diesel from dalhousie to killar. Is it possible??

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Vargis.Khan June 28, 2021 - 12:11 am

Hello Aditya – Yes you can

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Chetan September 28, 2020 - 12:45 pm

Extremely informative and excellent blog I have one query can this trip be done in late October or 1 week of november

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Shrutika bhosale September 21, 2019 - 9:13 am

Hie , I’m thinking to take a sach pass route to go to Dalhousie from manali so do I need to apply for permit to cross rohtang pass ?

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Vargis.Khan September 21, 2019 - 4:59 pm

Yes you will have to get the permit if traveling by your own vehicle

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Chirag Arora August 9, 2019 - 7:52 am

HI Vargis Bhai ,

I am planning a 6-7days bike trip to pangi valley in last week of August (24 to 31) , can you please review my itinerary :
24aug Delhi -> bhuntar
25aug bhuntar -> dalhousie
26aug dalhousie – > killar
27aug killar
28aug killar -> chandratal/udaipur
29aug chandratal/udaipur – > manali
30aug manali
31aug delhi
*(30/31)reserve day

1. Is End of august okay to travel considering the monsoon ?
2. Can we pitch our own tents on all days ?
3. What extra precautions will be required knowing the condition of roads.
4. travelling with pillion is okay ??

Reply
Vargis.Khan August 9, 2019 - 2:52 pm

Hi Chirag Bhai,

1. Yes
2. Not all days but on most you can
3. Be prepared for water crossings waterproof everything
4. This will depend on your bike really.

Reply
Chirag Arora August 13, 2019 - 7:39 am

Thanks Vargis Bhai ,

Require Few more inputs :
1 How is the itinerary?
2 Is it feasible to go to Chandratal ?
3 Any off beat /unexplored place nearby you will suggest to include ??
4 Suggestions for stay other than tent ?

Reply
Vargis.Khan August 13, 2019 - 12:02 pm

Hi Chirag,

1. Chandratal from Killar will be tough but rest is good.
2. Yes, definitely. Use your spare day there.
3. It is good the way it is, don’t stuff more. will just become hectic. Sural and Hudan Bhatori are good though.
4. Guest houses are the only other choice, available in ample throughout the route.

Reply
Chirag Arora August 14, 2019 - 7:08 am

Thanks Vargis Bhai ,

Been to Chandratal several time so will think of skipping it and considering Sural and Hundan .

Vargis.Khan August 14, 2019 - 1:40 pm

Both are very good places Chirag Bhai, very scenic

anomadicwanderer July 11, 2019 - 12:57 pm

Hey Vargis.. Your blogs are really helpful in every aspect.. I just wanted to ask one thing from you.. I will be starting my journey from Chamba to Killar and then continue it to Kishtwar.. There are public transport between these places?? Between Chamba and Killar, Killar and Kishtwar?? I wanted to travel in less budget. I don’t want to go for persnal cabs or taxi. Thank you so much in advance.

Reply
Vargis.Khan July 11, 2019 - 2:48 pm

Hi Tusharika,

Public transport will be available in form of shared cabs that the locals use, mostly a Bolero. Bus service is almost next to none.

On a different note, I really liked the name of your blog. Khanabadosh Banjaran …… Very catchy 🙂

Read your first post on Parvati Valley as well. Really liked it.

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anomadicwanderer July 12, 2019 - 8:29 am

Thank you so much Vargis for the information and for appreciation as well. Nice to hear from you.

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Vargis.Khan July 12, 2019 - 12:24 pm

You are welcome Tusharika.

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Soumyadip July 8, 2019 - 6:59 am

Hello Vargis Bhai,

The article is such a helpful information.We are from Kolkata and planning to go Pangi Valley in mid week of September. Actually we have searched lot in internet but not found any reliable operator to conduct the whole trip. If you have any such of contacts then can you please share with me. We want start the tour from Chamba and ends on Manali. Is it possible to cover the places in 5days?

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Vargis.Khan July 8, 2019 - 6:21 pm

Hello Soumyadip Bhai = Please talk to Binny Thakur @ 9816300804. He is a local of Pangi Valley, runs his own cab and will take care of your tour.

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Soumyadip July 9, 2019 - 7:51 am

Hello Vargis Bhai,

Thank you soo much. I will surely call him.

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Vargis.Khan July 9, 2019 - 6:02 pm

You are welcome Bhai !!!

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VARUN KATHURIA June 27, 2019 - 7:13 am

Wow such a detailed explanation
Thanx KHAN sahib

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Vargis.Khan June 27, 2019 - 4:39 pm

You are welcome Varun Bhai !!!

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shailender dhawan June 26, 2019 - 12:04 pm

Hi Vargis,

Is the pass open now ? we are planning to hit in the first week of July

Regards

Shailender Dhawan

Reply
Vargis.Khan June 26, 2019 - 11:59 pm

It will take another 2-3 days to completely open Shailender

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D Bagchi June 22, 2019 - 1:31 pm

Hello, I want to visit Sach pass from Delhi in4-5 days with family (total 2 adults & 2 kids 13 & 8 years) with following itinerary around 26-30 June-
Day 1 Delhi to Dalhousie
Day 2 Dalhousie to Sach pass & back to Dalhousie
Day 3 Sightseeing at Dalhousie, Khajjar etc.
Day 4 Return to Delhi

I will be driving a Creta Petrol SUV, will it travel to Sach pass and is the above itinerary ok? Also will the pass be open & navigable.Thanks in advance..

Reply
Vargis.Khan June 22, 2019 - 3:05 pm

1. When are you traveling?
2. Sach Pass is open but not yet safe to travel
3. Dalhousie to Sach and Back on the same day will be a bit too long.

Reply
D Bagchi June 22, 2019 - 5:41 pm

Thanks for the prompt reply, I want to reach Sach pass on 28 or 29 June, will it be safe then?
If it remains unsafe, till what point can we go to experience some good snow..
Also where would you recommend staying for our family for Sach pass day trip since we don’t plan to cross the pass.

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Vargis.Khan June 23, 2019 - 3:34 pm

Bairagarh would be a safe bet. Reach there, check into a hotel, go as far as you can towards the Pass and return to Bairagarh again.

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Karan Sharma June 17, 2019 - 5:43 am

Fantastic piece of detailed info Vargis. Really helpful. I am planning to drive my Nexon automatic and plan to reach on that route on 1st Oct. Hope its fine and wouldnt cause much of a problem if the car is automatic.

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Vargis.Khan June 17, 2019 - 1:53 pm

Thanks Karan. No, Nexon will be fine, especially since you are traveling in October 1st week and well after monsoon.

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Satyendra Tiwari October 23, 2018 - 4:05 am

Vedi nice and detailed information provided by you, as I am planning solo ride by Honda Shine next year
Thanks in advance will contact you for more information

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Vargis.Khan October 23, 2018 - 12:35 pm

Thank you Mr. Tiwari. You are welcome to ask any questions you may have.

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Abhishek Markhedkar May 27, 2019 - 10:58 am

Dear Vargis ,

Since Rohtang pass is closed as per your update what is the alternate way to come back from leh , if going through manali

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Vargis.Khan May 27, 2019 - 5:49 pm

Hi Abhishek – There is no other alternate. You will have to go back to Srinagar if Manali road is closed.

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Shailender Dhawan June 6, 2019 - 11:49 am

Hi Vargis,

This is an excellent narrative with detailed inputs . Thanks for providing such a deep insight and this propels us to plan a trip . I have a Volvo sedan S60 cross country 4WD with a ground clearance of 200mm , Will it be fine

Regards

Shailender Dhawan

Reply
Vargis.Khan June 6, 2019 - 4:45 pm

Hi Shailender, 200MM is more than enough for the trip, won’t be much of an issue anywhere.

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shailender Dhawan June 7, 2019 - 5:23 am

Thanks Vargis , I will request you for more inputs when we start our journey .

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Vargis.Khan June 7, 2019 - 2:10 pm

Sure Shailender

Ashok Kumar Gupta April 27, 2020 - 1:03 pm

Thanks for the detailed information. I am a solo traveler and travel by public transport mostly .I am planning a trip to sachpass starting from Kishtwar to sachpass to chamba all by public transport I have no shortage of time.Kindly advise if this trip is feasible as planned.It will be helpful if you could give some more tips for the trip.I am 70 ,in good health and trekking and traveling is my passion.

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Gaurav Mittal September 14, 2018 - 11:20 am

Hello Vargis Bhai,
Thanks for your prompt and helpful replies. Your feedback on road for my second Leh journey really helped and want to thank you for the same.

Me and one more of my friend are now planning a 5-day tour to Sach Pass, end of September, as monsoons might subside a bit by then.

Is it feasible to travel during this time or shall we wait for next year as mid of October mostly, the pass closes.

Also what kind of weather conditions and Slush/No-Slush we might experience during this time?

Thanks in advance

Reply
Vargis.Khan September 14, 2018 - 2:11 pm

You are welcome Gaurav Bhai. Sep end is good for a trip to Sach this year. There isn’t much rain over there right now so slush too won’t be a hassle much.

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Gaurav Mittal September 14, 2018 - 2:51 pm

Awesome…less rain means I can plan for next weekend also? Sad I wouldn’t experience those long ice walls. :'(

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Vargis.Khan September 14, 2018 - 10:39 pm

Yea you could do next weekend as well. Snow walls are possible only in June brother, as soon as the pass opens.

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Shammi Tandon August 4, 2018 - 6:59 am

is Sach Pass possible with Activa 125 ?

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Vargis.Khan August 4, 2018 - 6:16 pm

Nope

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Alok July 12, 2018 - 5:24 pm

Hi Vargis bro,
I am not able to see my post from Jun 9, so starting new one.
I postponed my plan from aiguAu to last weekend of September, to avoid rain.
Now I am thinking, weather to start journey from Pathankot or kistwar.
The reason is so that I complete all the hilly section, then on my return I just have to cover plains of Pathankot to delhi, if I start from kistwar.

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Vargis.Khan July 12, 2018 - 6:04 pm

Alok Bhai It is completely your personal choice. You can either cover the plains on first day or last day because the route will remain the same either ways. In terms of difficulty ass well it won’t make much of a difference.

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nullvoidresort June 27, 2018 - 10:45 am

So, I just returned from Sach Pass today morning, it was hell of an experience. Best of luck to the people who are planning. And yes there is plenty of snow at Sach Pass, we encountered snow fall as well 😉

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Vargis.Khan June 27, 2018 - 4:32 pm

Thanks for the update brother. Do share some pictures if possible.

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nullvoidresort June 29, 2018 - 11:19 am

Sure will do that, I am not able to post the pictures here, let me know how to share it.

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Vargis.Khan June 29, 2018 - 2:16 pm

Can you email me at [email protected]? I will post an article in your name and put some pictures on.

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nullvoidresort July 20, 2018 - 11:38 am

Hi Vargis, sorry for late reply. Surely brother will share them on your email ID, you can post the same 🙂

Vargis.Khan July 20, 2018 - 12:40 pm

Thanks brother

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Rash June 23, 2018 - 6:27 pm

Hi Vargis. Khan

Really helpful blog.. Thanks
I am planing on June 28 on my pulsar 150 solo… Is it doable
Is there any camping site near or at bairagarh
Thnkx

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Vargis.Khan June 23, 2018 - 7:25 pm

Hi Rash – Yes you can do it but must ride solo and as light as possible. Yes there is a camp site about 2 kilometers after Bairagarh towards Sach top. It was there last year at least.

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Gaurav Setia 8920895002 June 20, 2018 - 12:03 pm

Asalamualaikum VARGIS Bro

I have read your articles and you are a great.
Bro we are planning to go from delhi to ladakh via Sach Pass and come back via Manali.
Our Full route would be like this :
Gurgaon — Dalhousie — Killar — Keylong — Baatal (Chandartaal Trek) — Zing Zing Bar — Leh (3 Days) — Keylong — Manali — Gurgaon
My concern is that , how many permits do we need to complete this trip ?

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Gaurav Setia 8920895002 June 20, 2018 - 12:07 pm

Asalamualaikum VARGIS Bro

I have read your articles and you are a great.
Bro we are planning to go from delhi to ladakh via Sach Pass and come back via Manali.
From 22 June to 4 July.
Our Full route would be like this :
Gurgaon — Dalhousie — Killar — Keylong — Baatal (Chandartaal Trek) — Zing Zing Bar — Leh (3 Days) — Keylong — Manali — Gurgaon
My concern is that ,
1. How many permits do we need to complete this trip ?
2. Is Sach Pass open right now ?

Reply
Vargis.Khan June 20, 2018 - 3:00 pm

Walaikum As-salam Gaurav Bhai, Thank you for your kind words.

1. For this route, you only need to get inner line permit in Ladakh. See the post below for details please.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/obtaining-ilp-for-ladakh/

2. Yes Sach Pass is definitely open right now.

Reply
Vargis.Khan June 20, 2018 - 3:01 pm

Walaikum As-salam Gaurav Bhai, Thank you for your kind words.

1. For this route, you only need to get inner line permit in Ladakh. See the post below for details please.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/obtaining-ilp-for-ladakh/

2. Yes Sach Pass is definitely open right now.

Reply
nullvoidresort June 19, 2018 - 1:27 pm

Hi Vargis, Thanks for your amazing and informative write-up. I am a regular follower of your blogs.
I am planning to visit sach pass from 22nd – 26th June. Can you please tell me if we need to carry additional fuels in Plastic Cans/Jerry Cans for Bairagarh to Udaipur/Keylong Strech? We plan to do full circuit Delhi-Bairagarh-Sach-Killar-Keylong-Manali-Delhi.

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Vargis.Khan June 19, 2018 - 4:08 pm

Thanks bro. You do not really need to carry fuel for Sach Pass stretch really unless you are riding a bike with a very small fuel tank.

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nullvoidresort June 20, 2018 - 9:22 am

Thanks Vargis, we are taking enfields sio shouldn’t be a problem I guess. Thanks, much appreciate it !!

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Vargis.Khan June 20, 2018 - 3:03 pm

Then you do not need to worry about carrying fuel brother. One tank full will be sufficient to last till the next fuel station.

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Dipi Sonawane June 18, 2018 - 1:02 pm

Hello…
If we are planning our motorbike ride to Sach paas
From where can we rent a bike…nearby??
And how much it may cost us?

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Vargis.Khan June 18, 2018 - 1:46 pm

There are some motorbikes rental agencies in Dalhousie which would be closest. Rental will depend on the type of bike you chose but Rs.1000 per day would be a safe minimum number to assume.

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Dipi Sonawane June 19, 2018 - 6:15 am

ohwwwkkk thanks Vargis

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Vargis.Khan June 19, 2018 - 4:18 pm

You are welcome !!!

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Devinder pal Singh June 12, 2018 - 1:10 am

We are planning a 10-12days trip starting from Bathinda (Punjab) covering Sach Pass and Spiti. We have a Honda unicorn 150cc bike. Is Sach Pass possible on this bike with a pillion? We also want to cover a stretch of Killar- Kishtwar and then come back to Killar. Please suggest. If it is not possible upto Sach Pass than how far we can go. Because we have another option , one of us will reach Sach Pass by foot from that distance . As I am practising trail running from last year.

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Vargis.Khan June 12, 2018 - 1:40 pm

With pillion it would be tough to cover Sach Pass on 150CC bike because you will also have all the luggage. Rest it depends on how well maintained your motorcycle is. I will recommend arranging for annother bike and doing the trip as solo riders or else you will be asking your pillion to get off and walk wherever your bike refused to climb.

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Alok June 9, 2018 - 3:09 pm

Hello Vargis,

First of all, I pass my compliments to manage such a blog and publish such information which fuels spirit in many adventure seekers.

I am planning a round trip from Delhi in month of August in my Ecosport.
Following is the itinerary I have currently drafted:

1. Delhi to Pathankot
2. Pathankot to Killar
3. Kilar to Kistwar to Udhampur
4. Udhampur to Delhi

I accept it includes long driving hours, but is it douable? I have kept 1 buffer day for the trip.
Also, in the Month of August, will Ecosport able to do it?

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Vargis.Khan June 9, 2018 - 6:20 pm

Hi Alok, Thank you for your kind words.

1. You cannot do Pathankit to Killar, just not possible brother. Do Delhi to Bairagarh and Bairagarh to Killar. Start from Delhi by 1 or 2 in the night to make it to Bairagarh.
2. Even Killar to Udhampur would be way too long, may have to break it at Kishtwar so be prepared for that.
3. Ecosport is capable of the trip but will depend on how the monsoon hits in August. Hard to predict right now. If it rains too much then it would be hard.

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Alok July 13, 2018 - 7:07 am

ok, finally able to see my old post 🙂
so if I plan starting from Killar, how can I plan for the itinerary?

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Vargis.Khan July 13, 2018 - 1:31 pm

How many days do you have in hand? You can do Pathankot to Kishtwar – Kishtwar to Killar – Killar to Bairagarh – and then Bairagarh to Delhi

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Alok July 13, 2018 - 1:59 pm

This is my first draft:

Day 0: Noida – Jalandhar (Night Stay) : 400 KMs (Leave Early from Office) : Entire Plain area 6 Hour Drive

Day 1: Jalandhar – Kistwar : 390 KMs

Day 2: Need to plan this

Day 3: Arrive Pathankot

Day 4: Pathankot to Delhi : 500 KMs : Entire Plain 7.5 hours drive

Keep 1 day for buffer

Vargis.Khan July 13, 2018 - 2:10 pm

I will suggest that you plan for 5 days. Kishtwar to Bairagarh is easily 10-11 hours if you want to try that though. Otherwise do Kishtwar to Killar which is about 6-7 hours, then do Killar to Bairagarh which is about 6 hours again, Bairagarh to Pathankot on Day 4 and Pathankot to Delhi on Day 5.

Utkarsh June 4, 2018 - 9:13 am

We were planning to stay at sach for a night, so can we get hotels or camping tents from there or have to carry our own?

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RJ May 27, 2018 - 8:19 am

Nice detailed article Vargis, keep it up.. I am planning a family trip (2 adults 2 kids of 13 & 10 age) in Innova/Xylo Taxi from Delhi as follows:

OPTION 1-
June 1st- Noon reach Dalhousie stay there
June 2nd – Visit to Khajiar, return to Dalhousie
June 3rd – Leave early morning for Sach Pass and return to Bairagarh for Stay.
June 4th- Leave Bairagarh after breakfast for Chamba stay at night
June 5th – Leave morning from Chamba to Delhi.

I hope Sach Pass is open and doable on above dates from Dalhousie side.

OPTION 2-
June 1st – Noon reach Narkanda
June 2nd- Tanni Jubbar-Theog-Rohru (Stay at Night)
June 3rd – Visit Chansal Pass, return to Rohru
June 4 – Visit Chakrata- Tiger Fall (Stay at night)
June 5 – Ponta Sahib, Ambala, Delhi return

Any suggestions and dos and Donts for both the above options.

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Saiby khan May 20, 2018 - 5:33 pm

Hi Virgis I have a wagon r model 2006 with good condition want to go sach paas with family. is it ok by you .plz suggest.

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Vargis.Khan May 20, 2018 - 6:24 pm

Hi Saiby, No, please do not bring a Wagon R to Sach Pass. It is not meant for a car like WagonR

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Karan Dave June 26, 2019 - 7:03 am

Amazing insights. So glad you respond to each and every comments. Kudos to you brother. Any buses/jeeps to help solo traveller cut down the cost? I am looking for Dalhousie – Chamba – Keylong – Leh in July last week. I need to reach Leh from Dalhousie and have roughly 6 nights to stop and go around this round.

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Vargis.Khan June 27, 2019 - 12:05 am

Thanks Karan. Shared cabs and buses are available but frequency is not that great.

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Girish May 10, 2018 - 7:30 pm

wow. very useful information. Wonderful tips for preparation.
I have a query .
Since i am planning to do it by bicycle, it would be difficult to do Killar to Bairagarh or from Bairagarh to Killar in one day .
So my question is
can i have night halt at satrundi Dhaba or Bogotu Dhaba?? i will carry my own sleeping bag, so i will not need anything from them, except for 6 by 2 feet space . But was just wondering do the dhabawalas stay there at night or go back to lower town at night ???

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Vargis.Khan May 10, 2018 - 8:52 pm

Thanks Girish. Some of them stay and some don’t. There is also a camp site after Bairagarh on the way to Sach which you can consider for camping.

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Som May 2, 2018 - 4:25 pm

Hello Vargis

The article help me a lot. We are planning to go Pangi valley on September 1st week. We want to start the tour from Dalhousie and ends in Manali. Can we cover this circuit in 5 days? Should I book the car from Dalhousie for whole the tour? Also is this road safe for girls?

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Vargis.Khan May 2, 2018 - 6:20 pm

Hi Som, If you are saying 5 days from Dalhousie to Manali then yes, you can very easily do it. And yes, if you are travelling in a group then it is perfectly safe to girls as well.

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Som May 3, 2018 - 2:18 am

Hello Vargis, Actually we want to start the tour From Dalhousie then want to cover Tissa, Sach Pass, Killar and tour ends on MANALI. Is this plan possible in 5 days?

Also if possible can you please give few car operator name who can drive in this road and drop us in Manali

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Vargis.Khan May 3, 2018 - 7:03 pm

Hi Som, Yes it is easily doable in 5 days. Please contact Binny Thakur @ 09816300804 to arrange taxi.

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Som May 5, 2018 - 5:30 am

Hello Vargis,

Thank you so much.

Vargis.Khan May 5, 2018 - 4:08 pm

You are welcome Som

Vikas Bishnoi September 3, 2018 - 2:34 pm

You can even contact Ramesh, he is driving on this route from last 10-12 years – 8988457752.. probably one of the coolest driver.

Arvind February 26, 2018 - 4:26 pm

2 people on 1 royal enfield classic 350? (approx 350kgs in all including driver and pillion weight) will that be a problem? can we go through that pass?

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Vargis.Khan February 26, 2018 - 4:46 pm

Depends on how maintained your motorcycle. If not too old and in mint condition then you should be able to cross the pass

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Dhruv August 28, 2017 - 6:41 am

Hi Vargis, as u mention above The last petrol pump en route is Batt Filling Station, about 20 kilometers before Bairagarh. After this, there is no other gas station until Tandi on Manali Leh highway. So ho much petrol is sufficient for that part to travel on royal enfield 350.

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Vargis.Khan August 28, 2017 - 2:58 pm

Hi Dhruv – It should suffice but just to be on a safer side, carry couple of 2 liters Pepsi or Coke bottles. Fill those up as well once you tank up before Bairagarh and then as you proceed, empty those one by one in the tank.

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Gabru August 22, 2017 - 5:29 pm

Hello Bro,

We were planning to visit Leh Ladak this year and i was searching on google about the route plans to Leh Ladak and here in ur detailed information i read about a route from Sach Pass to Leh and then i saw pictures and videos on youtube of Sach Pass and i think it is a dream journey for us as i love adventures especially when u have a roads like this. Really Thanx a lot brother, Your detailed information is very useful. Now we have cancelled our trip to Ladak this year but Me and my one friend is planning to visit sachpass on this 28th August 2017 in an Open Jeep (with a little portable roof covering front two seats) from Phagwara City (City situated 20km near Jalandhar, Punjab). We have Total 4 Days for our trip and we will Leave at 3am in the morning and we can reach Sach Pass in a single day as it is only 350km Approximately from our city. But i don’t know where else to visit apart from Sach Pass and We have 3 more days. Could you plz suggest us which will be best places for us to visit ?
And one more thing when we have to register ourselves at Satrundi Check post, Do they allow diesel vehicles older than 10 years of age as from on route Manali to Leh they don’t allow vehicles which are older than 10 years.

Warm Regards,
Gabru

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Vargis.Khan August 23, 2017 - 1:14 pm

Hi Bro – For 4 days, it will be a bit of rushed journey. You can try to do it as a circuit. Leave probably by 2 from Phagwara, do not take breaks, cross Sach and reach Killar. From Killar, you can go towards Kishtwar and then return to Killar by evening. On 3rd day, reach Keylong and stay there. From Keylong, start early, cross Manali and reach back Phagwara by late in the night.

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Ankur July 28, 2017 - 6:58 am

We r leaving from delhi to sach pass tonight
Just need to knw abt budget by bike for 5 days trip

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Vargis.Khan August 1, 2017 - 5:30 pm

Keep a budget of about 10k minimum for a 5 day trip.

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Ambarish Bandyopadhyay June 11, 2017 - 6:50 pm

Very well described and useful info buddy. A friend and I are planning both Sach Pass and Zanskar in July. Putting down the broad itinerary from Delhi. Will be driving my 4×4 Ssangyong Rexton.
Day 1 : Pathankot / Dalhousie
Day 2 : Bairagarh
Day 3 : Kishtwar
Day 4 : Srinagar / Sonmarg
Day 5 : Kargil
Day 6 : Parkachik / Rangdum
Day 7 : Padum
Day 8 : Padum (Will use this day to drive around to Zangla etc)
Day 9 : Kargil
Day 10 : Lamayuru / Chilling
Day 11 : Leh
Day 12 : Jispa
Day 13 : Manali
Day 14 : Delhi
Do you find the itinerary ok? Also can you please recommend places to stay and if I need to do the bookings in advance?
Thanks a lot in advance.

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Vargis.Khan June 12, 2017 - 8:00 pm

Thank you Ambrish. Your itinerary looks great.
.
For hotels and guest houses on Srinagar Leh highway, see the article below.
.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/guest-houses-hotels-on-srinagar-leh-highway/
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For zanskar, see below article.
.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/accommodation-in-zanskar-valley-hotels-guest-houses/
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For Manali Leh, see below
.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/accommodation-on-manali-leh-highway/

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Kishan Pesswani June 11, 2017 - 4:49 am

I could not find the next part of the article..Will that be up soon. I am hoping that will help me decide what route to take.

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Vargis.Khan June 12, 2017 - 7:56 pm

Hello Kishan – I am still working on it bro, should have it posted by tomorrow

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Kishan Pesswani June 11, 2017 - 4:46 am

This is such helpful information. I am planning a solo trip next weekend from delhi..Only 3 or 4 days.

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Vargis.Khan June 12, 2017 - 7:56 pm

Thanks Kishan Bhai

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Ankit June 8, 2017 - 5:38 am

Superb Info.. Really helpful.. its like I have already visited after reading your article 🙂

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Vargis.Khan June 8, 2017 - 2:20 pm

Thanks Ankit Bhai

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sudhanshuvermaphotography June 7, 2017 - 7:23 pm

Thank you so much for sharing this valuable information.
Now I am really confused to start on 10th June from Manali or not. It will take me around 7 days to reach Sach pass on cycle. And I am just worried about the waterfall you’ve mentioned, is it possible to cross them by walk ?

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Vargis.Khan June 7, 2017 - 8:31 pm

You are welcome Sudhanshu. Yes you can walk across the waterfalls carefully. I will check tomorrow to get a more exact update on the pass and will let you know if it is opening anytime soon.

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