*Day 1: Arrival in Manali & Acclimatization (Altitude: 2,050m)*
* *Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM):* Arrive at Manali (private or Volvo bus stand). Check into pre-booked accommodation (hotel or guesthouse).
* *Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM):* Lunch in Manali. Rest and acclimatize to the altitude. Gentle exploration of Manali town: Visit Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, and the local market.
* *Evening (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM):* Briefing with trek operator/guide. Review itinerary, safety precautions, and equipment check.
* *Night (7:00 PM onwards):* Dinner and overnight stay in Manali.
*Day 2: Manali to Shangchar & Trek to Khanaul (Altitude: 2,130m - 2,743m; Trek: 4-5 hours)*
* *Morning (8:00 AM):* Breakfast in Manali.
* *Morning (9:00 AM):* Drive from Manali to Shangchar (approx. 1 hour), the starting point of the trek.
* *Morning (10:00 AM):* Commence the trek to Khanaul. The trail passes through dense forests of pine and deodar. Gradual ascent with moderate difficulty.
* *Afternoon (1:00 PM):* Packed lunch en route.
* *Afternoon (3:00 PM):* Arrive at Khanaul. Set up camp or check into available guesthouse/homestay.
* *Evening (6:00 PM):* Dinner and overnight stay in Khanaul. Enjoy the views and acclimatization.
*Day 3: Khanaul to Ranisui Lake & Back to Khanaul (Altitude: 2,743m - 4,572m - 2,743m; Trek: 7-8 hours)*
* *Morning (6:00 AM):* Early breakfast.
* *Morning (7:00 AM):* Start the challenging trek to Ranisui Lake. This section is a steeper ascent through rocky terrain and alpine meadows.
* *Afternoon (12:00 PM):* Arrive at Ranisui Lake. Spend time enjoying the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and the serene lake.
* *Afternoon (1:00 PM):* Packed lunch near the lake.
* *Afternoon (2:00 PM):* Begin the descent back to Khanaul.
* *Evening (6:00 PM):* Arrive back at Khanaul. Rest and relax.
* *Night (7:00 PM):* Dinner and overnight stay in Khanaul.
*Day 4: Khanaul to Shangchar & Drive Back to Manali (Altitude: 2,743m - 2,130m - 2,050m; Trek: 3-4 hours)*
* *Morning (8:00 AM):* Breakfast in Khanaul.
* *Morning (9:00 AM):* Begin the trek back to Shangchar. Enjoy the views on the descent.
* *Afternoon (12:00 PM):* Arrive at Shangchar.
* *Afternoon (1:00 PM):* Drive from Shangchar back to Manali.
* *Afternoon (2:00 PM):* Check back into your accommodation in Manali.
* *Afternoon/Evening (Free Time):* Explore Manali, souvenir shopping, or relax.
* *Night:* Dinner and overnight stay in Manali.
*Day 5: Departure from Manali*
* *Morning (8:00 AM):* Breakfast in Manali.
* *Morning (9:00 AM onwards):* Check out from accommodation. Depart from Manali (private or Volvo bus stand).
*Important Notes:*
* This itinerary is a suggestion and can be customized based on your preferences and physical abilities.
* Obtain necessary permits and permissions from local authorities and forest department.
* Hire a qualified and experienced local guide.
* Carry appropriate trekking gear: sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit.
* Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout the trek.
* Be mindful of the environment and practice Leave No Trace principles.
* Inform your family or friends about your trekking plans.
* Check weather conditions before starting the trek. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
* Consider travel insurance that covers trekking activities.
* This trek is best undertaken during the months of May-June and September-October.