Friendship Peak is a challenging climb near Manali, Himachal Pradesh, to a summit of 5,289 m (17,350 ft) in the Pir Panjal range. Expeditions usually take 7–8 days from Solang Valley and need an Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) permit.
About the Friendship Peak trek
The approach follows the Beas Kund trail through Solang and the Bakarthach grazing grounds before the climb to a high camp and the summit ridge.
When to go
Best months: May, Jun, Sep, Oct
- Jannot recommended
- Febnot recommended
- Marnot recommended
- Aprnot recommended
- Mayrecommended
- Junrecommended
- Julnot recommended
- Augnot recommended
- Seprecommended
- Octrecommended
- Novnot recommended
- Decnot recommended
May–June is the snow season, with the upper slopes fully snow-covered. September–October, after the monsoon, is clearer and colder, with more rock and ice on the route. Winter and the monsoon are not climbed.
How difficult is it?
- Easy
- Easy–Moderate
- Moderate
- Moderate–Difficult
- Difficult
This is a summit climb rather than a trek: summit day involves snow and ice slopes where crampons and rope may be used. Formal mountaineering training is recommended though not always mandatory.
How to reach
- Nearest city
- Manali
- Nearest airport
- Bhuntar Airport, Kullu
- Permits & rules
- An Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) peak permit is required. Fees differ for Indian and foreign climbers, and foreign teams also need an IMF liaison officer. Operators usually arrange the permit.
Common questions
How high is Friendship Peak?
5,289 m (about 17,350 ft).
Do you need a permit for Friendship Peak?
Yes, climbs need a permit from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation.