Overview
Kuari Pass Trek
Overview:
Kuari Pass Trek is an ideal adventure for thrill-seekers, offering a diverse range of experiences amidst the stunning Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Discovered by Lord Curzon during the British era, it stands at an impressive altitude of 4,264 meters and is perfect for beginners and experienced trekkers alike.
Highlights of Kuari Pass Trek
- Location: Garhwal Region, Uttarakhand, India
- Altitude: Highest point at 12,516 ft (3,815 m)
- Trek Duration: 5-6 Days, covering 26-30 km
- Difficulty Level: Moderate – suitable for both beginners and seasoned trekkers
- Best Time to Visit:
- Spring/Summer: April to June
- Autumn: September to November
- Winter Snow Trek: December to April end
- Starting Point: Dhak village, near Joshimath
Adventure Elements
1. Snow Trekking (Winter Edition)
During winter, the trail transforms into a snow-covered wonderland. Trekking through deep snow, especially during the ascent to Kuari Pass, adds a unique thrill. The physical challenge is high, but the rewards—pristine white landscapes and quiet serenity—are unmatched.
2. Forest Trails
Traverse dense oak and rhododendron forests, home to Himalayan wildlife. Expect narrow, winding trails and potential sightings of rare birds, Himalayan black bears, and mountain deer, adding an exciting element to your journey.
3. High-altitude Meadows (Bugyals)
Walk through Gorson Bugyal, a vast alpine meadow with panoramic mountain views. These open, grassy expanses provide a feeling of remoteness and peace, with uninterrupted views of snow-capped peaks.
Essential Information
- Weather: Unpredictable, with chances of rain, snow, and cold temperatures. Pack accordingly.
- Permits: Required, obtainable from the forest department office in Joshimath.
- Accommodation: Options include tents, guesthouses, and lodges along the trail.
- Fitness Level: Moderate fitness required. Pre-trek physical preparation recommended.
- Gear Checklist:
- Trekking shoes
- Warm clothing (layers)
- Rain gear
- Sleeping bag
- Backpack
- Trekking poles (optional)
Peaks Visible from Kuari Pass Summit
- Nanda Devi – 7,816 m (25,643 ft): Highest peak entirely in India; spiritually revered.
- Kamet – 7,756 m (25,446 ft): Known for its pyramid shape; second highest in Garhwal.
- Dronagiri – 7,066 m (23,182 ft): Noted for its beauty and mythological lore.
- Chaukhamba – 7,138 m (23,419 ft): Group of four peaks known as the “Four Pillars.”
- Hathi Parvat – 6,727 m (22,073 ft): Elephant-shaped peak, uniquely distinct.
- Ghori Parbat – 6,708 m (22,008 ft): Offers a commanding view from the summit.
Itinerary
Kuari Pass Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Pickup from Rishikesh – Drive to Joshimath (Base Camp)
- Distance: 257 km | Duration: 10–11 hours
- Mode: By taxi or tempo traveller
- Altitude: Joshimath – 6,152 feet
- Stay: Hotel (Twin/Triple sharing basis)
Start your journey early from Rishikesh towards Joshimath, the base camp for the Kuari Pass trek. The drive is long but scenic, passing through several beautiful confluences known as the Panch Prayag:
- Devprayag: Where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers meet to form the Ganga.
- Rudraprayag: Confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.
- Karnaprayag: Where the Alaknanda meets the Pindar River.
- Vishnuprayag: Confluence of Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers.
Enjoy the tranquil river views and the spiritual energy of these sacred spots before reaching Joshimath in the evening.
Day 2: Drive from Joshimath to Dhak | Trek to Gulling Camp
- Drive: 12 km | Trek: 6 km
- Duration: 4–5 hours total
- Altitude: Gulling Camp – 9,600 feet
- Stay: Campsite (Twin/Triple sharing basis)
After a short drive to Dhak village, the trek begins towards Gulling camp. The trail takes you through charming villages, terraced fields, and oak-pine forests. The views open up gradually, revealing glimpses of towering Himalayan peaks. Reach Gulling by afternoon and relax at the campsite amidst nature.
Day 3: Trek from Gulling Camp to Khullara Camp
- Distance: 5 km | Duration: 3–4 hours
- Altitude: Khullara – 11,072 feet
- Stay: Campsite (Twin/Triple sharing basis)
Wake up to stunning views of the Chaukhamba range. After breakfast, begin the gentle yet steady ascent to Khullara. The trail winds through dense forests and opens up to alpine meadows, offering beautiful vistas along the way. Spend the evening soaking in the tranquility of the Khullara campsite.
Day 4: Trek to Kuari Pass Summit (13,989 ft) and Return to Khullara Camp
- Distance: 13 km (round trip) | Duration: 8–9 hours
- Altitude: Kuari Pass Summit – 13,989 feet
- Stay: Campsite (Twin/Triple sharing basis)
Start early for the highlight of the trek – the Kuari Pass summit. The trail ascends through rolling meadows and snow patches (seasonal), with majestic peaks guiding your path. At the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri, Chaukhamba, Hathi Parvat, and Ghori Parbat.
After soaking in the Himalayan beauty, return to Khullara camp for the night.
Day 5: Trek from Khullara Camp to Dhak Village | Drive to Joshimath
- Trek: 9 km | Duration: 4–5 hours
- Drive: 12 km | Duration: 30–45 mins
- Stay: Hotel in Joshimath (Twin/Triple sharing basis)
Descend from Khullara through the forested trail back to Dhak village. After completing the trek, drive back to Joshimath and enjoy a well-deserved rest at the hotel.
Day 6: Drive from Joshimath to Rishikesh/Dehradun
- Distance: 258 km | Duration: 9–10 hours
After an early breakfast, start your return journey via Rishikesh to Dehradun. En route, enjoy one last glimpse of the majestic mountains, rivers, and valleys before concluding your memorable Himalayan adventure. Arrival in Dehradun by evening (around 5–6 PM).
Inclusion & Exclusion
What is Included In This Trek?
Transport from Dehradun to Dehradun/Rishikesh – Tempo Travellers or Bolero Taxi
Forest Permit and entrance fee
Accommodation in Hotel Joshimath
Accommodation in tents on twin/three share basis
All meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, Coffee, Snacks, Soup and Dinner
High quality Dome tents
Sleeping bags
Mattress
Liner
Separate Toilet tents – Ladies and Gents
Dining Tent
Dining Table
Helper
Kitchen team
Radio Walkie Talkie for Communication
Good Experience Trek Leader guide and Technical guide
Medical Kit
Oxygen Cylinders
Crampons and Gaiters
What is Not Included In This Trek?
Personal Insurance
Medical Certificate
Personal toiletry Items and Personal Medicine kit
On first day En Route to base camp the Breakfast and Lunch are Not Included
Last Day En Route Lunch and Dinner are Not Included
Trek Essential
PARTICIPANTS MUST BRING FOR KUARI PASS- TREK
- 50–60 ltrs backpack
- Strong hiking boots: a leather upper is best because it gives your ankles more support. If you don’t have a pair yet, you should get one as soon as possible and wear it a lot so that it breaks in well. This will help keep blisters from forming.
- Tennis shoes or sandals that are light enough to wear in camp
- Two pairs of thick wool socks, if possible.
- Two pairs of everyday nylon socks to wear underneath the wool socks to prevent blisters.
- One shirt for hiking, preferably with long sleeves.
- Long John top: This is also called thermal underwear, and it should be made of wool if it is the first layer.
- Two each of warm shirts and pants for camp
- 1 each rain cot/poncho
- Warm Jacket: 1
- One pair of wool gloves as thick as can be bought on the market.
- Long Johns: The first layer should be wool if possible.
- Under wear: 2-3 changes Shorts or pants for hiking: 1
- Sunscreen lotion is up to you. Chap stick or lip balm is optional.
- Water bottle: Two 1-liter bottles (Pepsi bottles work well), make sure they don’t leak.
- Headlamp or flashlight: A headlamp is best because it frees up your hands for work. If you bring a flashlight, bring extra batteries.
- Items for the bathroom, like a toothbrush, toothpaste, etc. And a small one-person medical kit.
- Cotton or nylon for a sun hat. Sunglasses: Those with an anc