The second day begins with a stunning sunrise over the Jagatsukh and Norbu peaks, their snow-covered faces glowing golden against the deepening blue sky. After a hearty breakfast, you pack your bags and follow a trail that initially winds through forest before opening into the vast Panduropa Meadow, also known locally as Dudu . This expansive grassland, situated approximately 3 kilometers from Chikka, offers a perfect rest stop where you can refill water bottles from the clear stream that flows through its center.

The trail beyond Panduropa becomes more challenging as you encounter the first significant boulder sections of the trek. These rocky stretches require careful foot placement, particularly after recent rainfall when the stones become slippery . Your guide demonstrates proper technique for navigating moraine terrain: planting feet firmly, using trekking poles for balance, and maintaining steady rhythm. The surrounding landscape transforms as you gain altitude, with the vegetation transitioning from dense forest to alpine scrub and the views expanding to encompass the entire valley system.

Upon reaching Seri at 3,600 meters, you're greeted by one of the trek's most spectacular campsites - a vast meadow of sand and grass cradled by massive mountains. The late afternoon offers breathtaking panoramic views of neighboring peaks including Norbu (5,226 m), Jagatsukh (5,050 m), and the distant Malana Pass . From this vantage point, you can faintly discern the location of tomorrow's destination: the Deo Tibba Base Camp. As evening falls, the temperature drops noticeably, and your camp team serves a warming dinner while you stargaze under one of the clearest night skies imaginable.

Today's relatively short distance belies the increasingly rugged terrain you'll encounter. After breakfast, the trail initially follows a flat section through the Seri meadows before reaching the Jagatsukh Nala stream crossing . A prominent cairn marks the crossing point, after which the route begins a steady ascent through moraine fields and boulder sections that demand careful navigation.

The gradient steepens considerably over the next two to two and a half hours, with the path winding through rocky terrain where loose stones require constant attention. Your guide emphasizes the importance of switch-backing on steep sections to protect your knees and maintain balance . Despite the physical challenge, the rewards are immediate - each pause for breath reveals increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding peaks, with Deo Tibba itself growing more prominent with every step.

Upon reaching the Tainta campsite at 3,900 meters, the full majesty of Mount Deo Tibba (6,001 m) finally reveals itself, its distinctive dome-shaped summit dominating the skyline . According to Hindu mythology, this is where the gods themselves gather, with Lord Indra presiding over their meetings from the adjacent Indrasan Peak . The remainder of the day is dedicated to acclimatization and rest - essential preparation for tomorrow's challenging ascent to Mini Chandratal. You'll have ample time to photograph the magnificent mountain scenery, explore the immediate surroundings, and listen as your guide shares ancient tales of the region's spiritual significance.

This pivotal day represents the physical and spiritual climax of your journey. An early start is essential, with a packed lunch prepared by your camp team. The trail from Tainta climbs steadily through stark, dramatic terrain characterized by extensive moraine fields and rocky outcrops . Unlike previous days, the path to Mini Chandratal is not clearly defined - your guide navigates using prominent landmarks, primarily heading toward Norbu Peak which remains visible on your right throughout the ascent.

The climbing is relentless but rewarding, with the emerald waters of Mini Chandratal Lake appearing suddenly after approximately two to three hours of steady effort. This small glacial lake at 4,480 meters sits cradled in a rocky amphitheater beneath the towering face of Deo Tibba, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks with mirror-like perfection . The vibrant turquoise color, caused by glacial silt suspended in the meltwater, creates an almost surreal visual effect against the stark mountain backdrop.

You'll spend quality time at the lake: photographing, meditating, or simply absorbing the profound silence of this high-altitude sanctuary. For those with additional energy, an optional extension leads to Bada Chandratal (the larger lake) approximately one hour further along the ridge . The return descent to Tainta requires equal caution as the ascent, with loose scree and steep gradients demanding careful foot placement to avoid injury . Arriving back at camp by late afternoon, you'll be greeted with hot refreshments and the satisfaction of having reached the trek's highest point. The evening is spent sharing stories of the day's adventure, with tired muscles soothed by a nourishing dinner under the stars.

After breakfast, you begin your descent, retracing the route through the spectacular landscapes you conquered during your ascent. The return journey offers a new perspective on familiar terrain - moraine fields that challenged you now appear conquerable, streams you crossed with trepidation now feel like old friends. A strategic lunch stop at Dudu Patthar in the Panduropa Meadow provides an opportunity to rest and reflect on the journey's highlights while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

The descent requires attention to technique, as downhill walking places different stresses on knees and joints. Your guide demonstrates proper form - keeping knees slightly bent, maintaining a steady rhythm, and using trekking poles effectively to reduce impact. The changing vegetation as you lose altitude serves as a natural altimeter, with alpine scrub gradually giving way to the familiar pine and deodar forests of lower elevations.

Arriving at Chikka in the late afternoon, you'll notice how much more comfortable this altitude feels after days spent higher. The familiar campsite now seems almost luxurious, with its gentle sounds of flowing water and birdsong. A celebratory atmosphere pervades the camp as you share stories of the journey with fellow trekkers, the sense of collective achievement strengthening bonds forged through shared challenge . After dinner, you might find yourself gazing toward the distant heights where Mini Chandratal lies hidden, marveling at how far you've traveled.

Your final morning in the mountains begins with a leisurely breakfast, allowing time to absorb the last moments of this pristine environment. The descent to Khanol follows the familiar trail through forests now rich with meaning - each landmark recalling memories of your outward journey. The morning light filters through the canopy, illuminating patches of wildflowers and creating photographic opportunities that may have been missed on Day 1.

Upon reaching Khanol, your vehicles await for the return drive to Manali. The journey offers a gradual transition from wilderness to civilization, with the mountain views slowly receding as you approach the bustling town. Arriving in Manali by early afternoon, you have time for a well-deserved hot shower and a celebratory meal at one of the local restaurants.

As you bid farewell to your trekking team and fellow adventurers, you carry with you more than photographs - you carry the memory of having walked in the realm of the gods, of standing beside a sacred lake at 4,480 meters, and of experiencing the profound beauty of the Pir Panjal range in all its glory. The dome of Deo Tibba will remain forever etched in your memory, not just as a mountain, but as a symbol of the heights to which human spirit can ascend.