Scaling the Gateway Peak: Mount Shitidhar (5,296m)

Mount Shitidhar is also popularly known as Shiti Dhat means the 'White Peak" as it is always covered with snow all over. The peak is situated at 17,224 feet, in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, located near Manali in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India.

It is probably the best peak, if you are an experienced trekker and want to shift your gear from trekking to climbing. You will get to see so many amazing views from this route like Hanuman Tibba, Deo Tinba, Indrasan Peak which are the most popular peaks of Kullu Valley.

Climbing the Shitidhar peak requires good trekking experience and technical skills and you must be fit to reach the top. In recent decades, Shitidhar has become a popular destination for both amateur and experienced mountaineers due to its relative access from Manali.

Himalayan Treks are known for their beauty with toughness and height. Everyone likes to explore the beauty of Himalaya through the beautiful treks and the wonderful climbing expedition. One of the most hard trek but easy climbing expeditions is Mount Shitidhar which is not so difficult for experienced mountaineers, However, during the winter season, the trek is very difficult and risky, You should avoid this expedition in winters.

During the Shitidhar Trek, you will get to see many beautiful destinations including the Beas Kund which is again one of the very famous alpine lakes loved by beginner trekkers. Shitidhar Expedition is especially for adventure lovers.

Essential things you must have for the Mount Shitidhar trek

● Clothing: When it comes to clothing make sure you have quality woolen clothes. They will keep you warm in the weather. If not you might get sick.You need one pair of innerwear which includes a top and bottom for base warmth. Get two pairs of trekking pants that dry quickly. One pair of waterproof Gore-Tex trousers is a must. You also need one Gore-Tex or jacket for wind and rain protection. A poncho is optional. It can be helpful in sudden rain.

● Hand Gloves: Hand gloves are very important for the trek. Without them your hands will get numb after sunset or early morning. It will be hard to hold things.

● Medical necessities: We at ThinAirExpedition provide aid and basic medical needs.. If you are taking any medication don't forget to carry it. Also bring earplugs, glasses and toiletry essentials.

● Footwear: You will be in the snow so you need quality shoes and socks. They will keep you comfortable. Consider bringing shoes. Heavy shoes will make walking difficult.

● For Your Head: You need a woolen cap to keep your head safe from cold winds. You can also bring a bandana which can be used as a sweatband or to cover your face from dust.

● For Your Feet: Bring a pairs of regular socks like two or three pairs. Also get one pair of woolen socks for warmth. You will need trekking boots with ankle support and good grip. Do not forget an extra pair of comfortable sneakers or shoes to wear at the campsite.

● Navigational & Survival Gear: You need a twenty liter backpack for water, snacks, fleece and other things. We will provide a duffel bag which will be carried by mules or porters. One trekking pole is a must. You can bring two for better balance.

● Personal Care Compact: Bring a face towel, tissues and wet wipes. You need hand sanitizer and lip balm. Moisturizer is optional. It is helpful in dry climates. A personal medication kit is a must. Do not forget sunscreen with SPF fifty or more.

Things to be prepared for Before Shitidhar Expedition

● 5-7 hours of trekking in the snow while going up the mountain.

● You need to be fit. Trekking and climbing can be tough.

● Be prepared for chilly nights. You will stay in tents overnight.

● The weather can change suddenly. We may have to go if we can't move forward.

Expedition Overview

Feature	Details
Altitude	5,296 m (17,375 ft)
Region	Pir Panjal Range (Manali)
Difficulty	Moderate / Non-Technical (Grade: Alpine F/PD)
Duration	6–8 Days
Best Time	May to June & September to October
Key Attraction	Views of Hanuman Tibba, Friendship Peak, and Ladakhi

Key Aspects of the Shitidhar Peak Climb:

● Location: The Shitidhar Peak is at the head of the Beas Kund glacier in the Pir Panjal Range.

● Difficulty: The climb is moderate. People say it's a hard trek but easy climbing. It's also good for beginners to learn climbing.. It can get tough in winter or with a lot of snow.

● Time to Visit: The best time to visit Shitidhar Peak is in May to June and September to October. Many people avoid it during the monsoon season.

● Highlights: From Shitidhar Peak you can see Hanuman Tibba, Deo Tibba, Indrasan and the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges around.

● Route: The Shitidhar Peak climb usually starts from Manali. You travel through Solang Valley, Dhundi and Bakarthach. The base camp is, near Beas Kund.

● Technical Requirements: The Shitidhar Peak climb is not very technical.. You need to know how to use crampons, ice axes and ropes. They often teach you during the expedition.

What Makes Shitidhar Different?

While Hanuman Tibba is a battle of technical skill, Shitidhar is a test of endurance and spirit.

● No Vertical Walls: You won't face the 80-degree ice walls of Tentu Pass here. The slopes are manageable for anyone with good physical fitness.

● High Reward, Moderate Effort: From the summit, you get a bird's-eye view of the entire Beas Kund glacier and the massive peaks that surround it, making it one of the most "photogenic" climbs in the region.

● The Learning Curve: It is the ideal peak to practice "Alpine Style" climbing—moving light, fast, and learning how to manage your body in the "thin air" zone.

The weather on Shitidhar can be unpredictable. We always try to get to the top of Shitidhar at sunrise. That means we start climbing Shitidhar before it gets light outside. This way the snow on Shitidhar is hard. We can walk on Shitidhar easily with special shoes called crampons.. We have a better chance of seeing really nice views from the top of Shitidhar before the clouds come in the afternoon.

Are you ready to climb your big mountain in the Himalayas? Shitidhar is a place to start your adventure, on Shitidhar.

Inclusions

1. Accommodation

● Hotel stay on Day 1 in Manali (twin or triple sharing).

● Tented accommodation from Day 2 to Day 7 during the expedition.

2. Meals

● Vegetarian meals with eggs included.

● Meals are provided from Day 2 dinner to Day 8 breakfast.

3. Expedition Support Team

● Base Camp Manager to coordinate logistics, communication, and emergency support.

● Certified Trek Leader trained in mountaineering and first aid.

● Experienced high-altitude cook for nutritious meals.

● Local mountain guides, number depending on group size.

● Adequate support staff for smooth expedition operations.

4. Trek & Camping Equipment

● Sleeping bag, sleeping liner, mattress, and cooking utensils.

● All-season tents (3-man tents on twin sharing basis).

● Separate kitchen, dining, and toilet tents.

● Camping stools and walkie-talkies.

● Technical equipment including ropes, helmets, ice axe, harness, gaiters, and crampons (as required).

5. Medical & Safety Support

● Well-equipped first aid and medical kit.

● Emergency stretcher.

● Oxygen cylinder.

● Blood pressure monitor, pulse oximeter, and stethoscope.

6. Load & Logistics

● Mules/porters to carry common expedition equipment and central luggage.

● Cloakroom facility at the base camp for extra luggage.

● All required permits and entry fees for Indian nationals.

● Transport services between Manali and Bharatpur as per the itinerary.

Exclusions

● Travel insurance of any kind.

● Meals during transit.

● Personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, laundry, or phone usage.

● Porter or mule for personal backpack (can be arranged at extra cost).

● Emergency evacuation, rescue operations, or hospitalization charges.

● Additional costs arising due to weather conditions, roadblocks, vehicle breakdowns, or itinerary changes beyond our control.

● Anything not specifically listed under Inclusions.

Trek Information View Dates & Booking

Photo Gallery

Ladakh

July to September

₹70000 | $800

black peak expedition

15 Days

Uttarakhand

72 Km

May to June and September to October

Testimonials

Trekkers share why they loved Mount Shitidhar

Rakesh dulams

Google

Nice experience with the thinAir expedition and accommodation and hospitality and safty such as taken personal care and well experienced guide and such a cool guy

hareez Tyson

Google

Good Experience and Nice mentorship

Aditi 99

Google

I had an amazing experience with thin air expeditions. The food, the hospitality, and the preparedness of the staff for all sorts of scenarios was commendable. The location of camps was perfect. Even though i was a female solo traveller , i felt very safe and comfortable. Couldn’t have asked for a better team.

Radandi Shashank

Google

“You are not just a mountain trek guides, but a true guardian of the journey. Your unwavering loyalty to our team, the mountains, and safety itself is extraordinary. Every step felt secure because of your dedication, integrity. And stayed committed to every trekker, through every challenge, with patience, care, and honesty. Huge respect to Subodh Jii n Aditi Mam!! Thank youu @thinairexpedition It was wonderful experience!!❤️❤️

67D3_KALYAN

Google

Completing the Kedarkantha trek at an altitude of around 12,500 feet was not just a trek for us, it was a life-long memory, and a major reason for this unforgettable experience is our guide Shubhod Sir. From the very first day till the summit, Shubhod Sir guided us with immense patience, discipline, and genuine care. At every difficult patch, when our legs were tired and breathing became hard, his calm words, constant motivation, and confident leadership gave us the strength to keep moving forward. He never rushed anyone and always made sure that every member of the group was safe, comfortable, and mentally strong. Shubhod Sir’s knowledge of the mountains, weather, and high-altitude conditions was truly impressive. More than a guide, he felt like a protector and mentor who treated everyone like family. His positive attitude and humble nature created a sense of trust and confidence among all of us. We are also thankful to Atidhi Madam for her support and cooperation during the trek, which added to the smooth experience. Because of Shubhod Sir’s guidance and dedication, we successfully reached the summit with confidence and joy. We will always remember this trek with gratitude and respect. Truly blessed to have a guide like him. 🙏⛰️

Arvind Sahu

Google

Wonderful experience totally worth it. At those price they provided services that no one could provides really enjoyed ❤️🎉

Kolanu Anirudh

Google

This is my first trek in Uttarakhand(Kedharkanta) and Thin Air Expedition made it a memorable one Thanks for everything subodh bro you made it so special.

kanica kandpal

Google

Completed the Gaumukh–Tapovan trek with Thin Air Expedition, and it was an exceptional experience from beginning to end. Instead of opting for a fixed-departure model, we chose a personally curated itinerary, as this was our first trek—and it turned out to be the perfect decision. The team was extremely thoughtful in planning each day’s distance, ensuring we were comfortably challenged without ever feeling overtired or exhausted upon reaching the campsites. Every campsite was carefully selected, offering not just safety and comfort but also breathtaking views that made each halt truly memorable. What stood out most was the level of personalization. The itinerary was clearly tailored to our pace and comfort, and the trek leader constantly shared insightful facts about the region, its geography, and cultural significance, adding depth and meaning to the journey. Overall, Thin Air Expedition delivers a highly personalized, well-paced, and enriching trekking experience. I would highly recommend them, especially for first-time trekkers looking for a safe, informative, and thoughtfully curated adventure.Sen

Raj Bahadur

Google

I booked my trek with Thin Air Expedition on a friend’s recommendation, and it turned out to be a great decision. They managed travel and accommodation very smoothly, and everything was well organized throughout the journey. The team stayed in regular coordination, ensuring that stays and drivers were properly arranged each day. The entire trip was timely, hassle-free, and also pocket-friendly. I would definitely recommend Thin Air Expedition—you can trust them completely with your travel and trekking plans.

sachin aulakh

Google

I recently completed the Kedarkantha Trek with ThinAirExpedition, and the entire experience was outstanding. The coordination, communication, and arrangements were excellent. The trek leaders were experienced and friendly, the support staff was humble, the stay was comfortable, and the food quality in such high altitude conditions was truly impressive. Their focus on safety and responsible trekking made the journey even better. I would definitely choose them again for my next Himalayan adventure! 🏔️✨

ajay kumar

Google

Great experience

Utkarsh Gupta

Google

Great job

Aman rai

Google

I recently completed a trek with the help of ThinAirExpedition, and the entire experience was very comfortable. From stay arrangements to travel from Rishikesh to Rishikesh, everything was well managed. The driver was extremely polite, supportive, and made the journey smooth and stress-free. Overall, a great experience and I would definitely recommend them.

Nitya Jaiswal

Google

Kedarkantha was not just a trek, it was an experience that helped me reconnect with myself. Thanks to Thin air expeditions , I felt safe, cared for and encouraged at every step. The sunrise at the summit, the laughter around the campfire and the kindness of the guides will stay with me forever. If you're looking for a company that treats you like family on the mountains, this is the one.

Biswajit Sahoo

Google

Subodh Sir making the trek so much of fun and intresting .. Awesome Experience with Subodh Sir

Anmol Verma

Google

Overall trekking and accommodation was a very smooth experience. Our trek leader Mr. Ramesh was amazing and very helpful. He managed to make the trek look easy. Overall experience was 10/10. Would highly recommend.

Rishabh Singh Rana

Google

Trek Guide Mr. Ramesh Ji is a very cool & good person. Trek journey became beautiful with the group and overall it became my one of the best experience.

aditi vaidya

Google

I recently went on a trek with Thin Air Expeditions, and I can't get over the experience I had! I did the Phulara Ridge trek with Subodh sir, and it was an incredible experience. What made it even more special was that Subodh sir made sure I could bring my dog, Flake, a toy pom. His team and him took such great care of us, and it was clear that they truly care about their guests, human or canine! The group was amazing too. I met some wonderful people along the way, and we formed lifelong bonds. The whole experience was beautiful – from the breathtaking views to the friendly, supportive environment. I’ll cherish these memories forever! If you're looking for a SAFE, well-organized, fun, and caring trekking company, Thin Air Expeditions and Subodh sir are the ones to go with!

Anuja Vaidya

Google

It was a wonderful experience with TAE on Phulara ridge trek, everything was on point the gears, food, trek guides and Subodh sir himself was an amazing leader who is the founder of TAE, he made sure the experience was amazing even for the first timers keeping safety the first priority. Also I took my Dog, Flake along with me for the trek and it was a great experience for her as well and her food and safety was well taken care of . 🐾 Would love to go back again with Thin air expedition. Thank you so much 🤗

Simran Samal

Google

Phulara Ridge Trek – A Memorable Experience for me !!! Someone once told me, “Trips aren’t just about travel — they become a part of you.” I never really believed it, but this time, Phulara Ridge became exactly that for me. Our first campsite — the forest trail, the tents, the whole setting — gave me the first taste of what was to come. Everything was so thoughtfully arranged, it felt like nature itself had prepared that space for us. All thanks to our trek leader, Subodh bhai 🙌🏻. The next stop was magical in its own way. The campsite was picture-perfect, and we even ended up learning a bit of the local Uttarakhandi dance from Dev bhaiya (well… I tried to! 😄). In the evenings, we played games and spent such a good time that we forgot the weight of city life for a while. And finally, the Ridge: Honestly, we thought the weather would block the views, but Subodh bhai timed it so perfectly that the skies cleared for us. Walking on the ridge — one valley on the right, another on the left, clouds passing beneath us — felt surreal. We sat there for hours, just soaking it all in. It was pure peace. And yes, we even made tea there!!! 🫶🏻 (Of course, we made no mess, cleaned it all up, and left the space exactly the way it should be 😌). For me personally, trekking has always been like meditation — a way to quiet the noise and reconnect with myself. This trek with Subodh bhai and the team gave me exactly that: peace, perspective, memories for a lifetime, and inspiration. #SoGrateful 🙏🏻 Thank you, Subodh bhai and team, for making this such a soulful and unforgettable journey! Lastly Just one note for all: “In the end, we don’t conquer mountains; they help us discover who we truly are.” To anyone even considering it: please go with #ThinAir Expeditions to experience the rawness of trekking, the beauty of nature, and the joy of escaping city life for a while. You’ll come back not just with pictures, but with stories, stillness, and a piece of the mountains in your heart. All the best !!! ✌🏻

Netra Sharma

Google

It was a wonderful experience with ThinAir Expedition. I went on my first trek to Phulara Ridge, and it was truly amazing. Our guide, Subodh ji, managed everything so well and remained patient throughout the trek. I enjoyed every moment and every spot. The place, the cook, and the helpers were all wonderful. The food and camps were awesome. I highly recommend joining ThinAir Expedition to experience the best of “pahadi” life!

Vaibhav Srivastava

Google

Thin Air Expedition gave us the best experience while trekking. Everything was finely arranged and properly taken care of whether it was travel, food. Staff availablity. But the best part was free hand while trekking. Subodh led us beautifully taking in note that everyone reaches the base camp and everyone is doing well. Consulting our next phase keeping in mind the safety and gears. It was collectively very amazing. He gave us full free hand additionally it is our responsibility as well to take care of each other. We did so many activities had games and fun and he even taught us how to camp. How to set up it was fun. If it would've given me option I'll rate it 10. Thanks subodh and team and thin air expedition for such a memorable trip.

Somya Chaturvedi

Google

I recently did the Phulara Ridge Trek with Thin Air Expedition, and it was my first trek ever truly an unforgettable experience! Everything was so well managed from safety arrangements and equipment to food and stay, I never had to worry about a thing. Our trek leader, Subodh, was extremely supportive, patient, and motivating, which made a huge difference for a first-timer like me. The food was simple, homely, and very satisfying after long trekking hours. Most importantly, safety was always the top priority. For anyone planning their first or next trek, I’d highly recommend Thin Air Expedition. Professional, caring, and passionate about making the experience memorable!

Scaling the Gateway Peak: Mount Shitidhar (5,296m)