Churah–Sach Pass Backdoor Loop Tribal Ridges & Snow Walls
6 Days • Rajpura, Bhanjraru & Satrundi Ascent to Sach Pass Download ItineraryThis 6-day circuit is a hidden gem for seasoned explorers — a quiet, forested route that climbs to Sach Pass from the Churah side, bypassing the usual Bairagarh ascent. From the slate-roofed villages of Rajpura and Tundi to the pine ridges of Bhanjraru and the snow walls of Satrundi, this loop blends tribal heritage, alpine drama, and offbeat immersion.
Trip Overview
Duration→6 Days
Best Season→Mid-June to early October (Sach Pass open; meadows accessible)
Total Distance→~400–500 km
Vehicle Type→SUV / High Clearance (essential for Tundi–Satrundi–Sach stretch)
Difficulty→Moderate to Challenging (steep climbs, remote terrain, cliff roads)
Permits→No permits required for Indian nationals
Mobile Network→BSNL in Chamba, Tissa; no signal in Rajpura, Tundi, Bhanjraru, Satrundi
Fuel Planning→Reliable pumps in Chamba and Tissa; carry 20–30 L spare for Sach Pass leg
Day‑by‑DayItinerar
Day 1: Chamba → Churah Valley → Rajpura
- Distance/Time: ~90 km 4–5 hrs
- Highlights:
- Forested ascent into Churah Valley
- Visit Rajpura village — slate roofs, wooden temples
- Adventure: Walk to Rajpura ridge viewpoint
- Stay: Rajpura homestay
- Tip: Carry supplies — no shops beyond Churah
Day 2: Rajpura → Tundi → Bhanjraru
- Distance/Time: ~60 km 3–4 hrs
- Highlights:
- Drive through Tundi — tribal hamlet with panoramic views
- Arrival in Bhanjraru — base for Satrundi ascent
- Adventure: Sunset walk to Bhanjraru meadow
- Stay: Bhanjraru guesthouse or camp
- Tip: Ask locals before photographing homes or people
Day 3: Bhanjraru → Satrundi → Sach Pass → Bairagarh
- Distance/Time: ~100 km 6–8 hrs
- Pass: Sach Pass (4,420 m) via Satrundi
- Highlights:
- Snow walls, waterfalls, and cliff-hugging roads
- Stop at Satrundi Helipad for panoramic views
- Adventure: Controlled-speed drive with frequent photo stops
- Stay: Bairagarh
- Caution: Landslide-prone; drive slow and avoid late crossings
Day 4: Bairagarh → Tissa
- Distance/Time: ~60 km 3–4 hrs
- Highlights:
- Forested descent into Tissa Valley
- Visit Tissa Fort, local temples, and apple orchards
- Adventure: Walk to Tissa ridge viewpoint
- Stay: Tissa homestay
- Tip: Fuel up here for return leg
Day 5: Tissa → Chamba
- Distance/Time: ~80 km 3–4 hrs
- Highlights:
- Scenic drive along Ravi River
- Return to Chamba town
- Adventure: Visit Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Bhuri Singh Museum
- Stay: Chamba
- Tip: Explore old bazaar for handicrafts
Day 6: Buffer / Return
- Options:
- Rest day, shopping, or buffer for weather delays
- Finish: Chamba (trip end)
- Tip: Optional detour to Bharmour or Chamera Lake
📍 Route Map for Your Planner
Chamba → Churah Valley → Rajpura → Tundi → Bhanjraru → Satrundi → Sach Pass → Bairagarh → Tissa → Chamba
Essentials to Carry
- Documents: DL, RC, insurance, ID proofs
- Clothing: Warm layers, gloves, rain jacket
- Footwear: Waterproof trekking shoes
- Health: Diamox (if advised), ORS, basic meds
- Gear: Tyre inflator, puncture kit, tow strap, jerrycans (20–30 L), headlamps, power banks
- Navigation: Offline maps, paper backup of routes
- Misc: Sunglasses, SPF 50+, lip balm, snacks, thermos
Insider Tip:
- Best season: Mid-June to early October
- Photography: Sach Pass snow walls, Bhanjraru meadows, Rajpura rooftops
- Local eats: Try rajma-chawal in Tissa, siddu in Bhanjraru, and chukh in Chamba
- Eco-ethic: No littering; respect temple zones and village customs
- Road caution: Sach Pass and Tundi–Satrundi stretches require slow, careful driving
Permits, fuel and checkpoints
- Permits:
- No permits required for Indian nationals
- Fuel:
- Reliable pumps: Chamba, Tissa
- Carry 20–30 L spare for Sach Pass leg
- Checkpoints:
- Police checks near Satrundi and Bairagarh
- Timing Tips:
- Sach Pass best crossed before noon
- Avoid driving after dark in cliff zone
