Introduction

At Atrangoo, ten km from Schichling village, a side road leads to the valley formed by the Pin River, a tributary of the Spiti. From the highway, one has to cross over to the other side of the river. The valley lies below the Kungri glacier and has a few monasteries – the most important of which is at Kungri, and has three blocks; it houses old relics and paintings. The Pin Valley has good treks - the main route connects the Kullu Valley over the Pin Parbati pass while another leads to Kinnaur through the Bhaba Valley.

In 1987, the Pin Valley was declared as a National Park. This now has a core area of 675 square kilometers and a buffer zone of another 1,150 square kilometers. The access to the park is from the village of Mikkim. Seventeen tiny villages are in the buffer zone and the total population of these is of around 1600 people. Within the designated park area, these villagers also have some settlements that they occupy temporarily for the summer months for grazing their flocks. Apart from these makeshift shelters, the park authorities have bunkers for trekkers that are located at legs of around fifteen kilometers and a ‘transit’ place in the village of Mud. Transit (read trek) through the park area is done with the help of porters and the unusual pack animals – yaks and the breed of horses unique to the area, the Chhumurthi.

The flora in the park area is classified as ‘alpine pasture’ or as a ‘dry alpine scrub forest’. The valley floor has Salix and Myricaria. This is home to over twenty species of animals and birds. The highly endangered snow leopard is one – whose population is estimated at a bare dozen. Other species include the Ibex, Bharal, Red Fox, Maarten, Weasel, Snow Cock, Bearded Vulture, Chukor, Golden Eagle, Griffon and Himalayan Chough.

Special Attributes

A high altitude National Park with good trekking routes

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Conservative and comfortable attire is recommended. Since these are remote areas, it is best to avoid shorts and the like. Always factor in local sensibilities.

Connectivity

Taxis and buses. Then walking.

Enjoyed by

Trekkers and naturalists

Exposure

High levels of UV. Adequate protection like sun block and head gear are recommended.

Avoidable Season

October, November, December, January, February, March

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Take a trek with professional guidance

Type of site

National Park