Starting From
8,048
6,999.00
Starting From
8,049
6,999.00
Price On
Demand
Starting From
8,049
6,999.00
Kuari Pass Trek
(106+ Reviews)Circle trail | Camping in various locations, starting and ending at the same point.
Dehradoon Railway Station
Jolly grant Airport - Dehradoon
Joshimath
January | February | March | April | November | December |
Joshimath to Joshimath
Veg
Guesthouse / Camping tent
Uttarakhand
6 Days
Moderate
12750 Ft
33 Km
Kuari Pass Trek Overview
Kuari Pass Trek: The Majestic Himalayan Winter Trek
The Kuari Pass Trek is one of the most fascinating treks in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, offering breathtaking scenery, incredible flora and fauna, and views of the majestic Himalayas. This particular trek is famously known as the Curzon Trail, named after Lord Curzon, the last of the British-era British rulers in India, who undertook this journey in the early 1900s, sparking the interest of many trekkers.
The Kuari Pass trek begins in Joshimath, an important small town that serves as a base for numerous high-altitude treks in the area. Situated at an altitude of about 1890 mts, Joshimath is a religious center and a stopover for those traveling to the renowned Auli ski slopes and the temples of Badrinath and Auli. Due to its historical aspect and spiritual touch, this place is the ideal starting point for the Kuari Pass trek.
As soon as you step outside your tent, the path leads through dense oak, rhododendrons, and deodar trees. Besides the vibrant vegetation and diverse wildlife, the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains are truly delightful. The trek passes through some picturesque villages, such as Dhak and Gulling, where you can experience the traditional way of life of the Gurwalis.
The first stage of the Kuari Pass trek, which is not difficult, consists of a series of ups and downs. It becomes increasingly challenging to describe the stunning views as you ascend the trail. The journey includes several lovely streams, quiet meadows, and cozy landscapes; however, each one is more beautiful than the other. Next, the most popular aspect is the Nanda Devi Range, located in the Indian Himalayas and renowned as one of the tallest mountain peaks in India. It is not uncommon for you to pause along your route to fully appreciate the breathtaking scenery, as this place is so beautiful that photographs cannot capture its true essence.
The Kuari Pass trek also provides an opportunity for wildlife lovers to see a range of animals such as the musk deer, Himalayan tahr, and various bird species. You will be especially attracted to this location because of the unique features that allow you to appreciate the diverse ecosystems in their natural state.
As the trek progresses, the terrain ascends further, making the journey to the core of the Kuari Pass more strenuous. At an approximate height of 3,600 meters, the Kuari Pass Trek offers you some of the best looks at the surrounding peaks on view, including the glorious Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Trishul. Reaching this point in the trek is undoubtedly worth the effort, as you will gain satisfaction standing at one of the highest points of India, surrounded by towering mountains.
Temperatures in the area can be erratic, as the difference between day and night is significant. More often than not during the day, you will witness beautiful weather; however, it may not be the case at night, especially at higher elevations. You should prepare the necessary equipment well in advance to ensure comfort and safety. However, the Himalayan Daredevils guide will assist you. The most popular season in which almost everyone attempts the Kuari Pass Trek are from late September to early November and from late March to early May - these periods are known for their favorable weather and unobstructed views.
In the course of the asymmetrical trek, you will also have the opportunity to experience the rich culture of the region. Garhwali culture is rich in customs and visitors can experience local music, dance, and cuisine. Some local specialties worth trying include potatoes stuffed with spices – “aaloo ke gutke” and “kafuli” – green curry with various green leaves.
The twist of the terrain also seems to evoke distinct and changing scenery for you will descend from Kuari Pass. The Kuari Pass Trek’s trails often wind through lush alpine meadows, filled with vibrant patches of wildflowers. This descent is normally so reflective for most trekkers, who, at this particular time, are thinking about their encounters in the course of the trek.
You do not have to navigate this journey alone; the Himalayan Daredevils guide will make your understanding of the region much fuller because there’s a lot of knowledge about this land: its geography, culture, and even history.
Kuari Pass Trek would not be complete without addressing the safety concerns associated with the journey, particularly regarding the high altitude. It is essential to make necessary adjustments, particularly those related to altitude, to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. Also of utmost importance is ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition throughout the hike. Nothing as fulfilling as the bonds of friendship that develop among trekkers during a long trek, as they share common experiences.
The Kuari Pass trek is not merely a physical competition; rather, it is a personal journey for each participant, with the retreat, as part of nature, being the one to provide the search and realization of the inner self. The stillness of the Himalayas as well as the step-by-step trekking pace enables one to escape from the chaotic day-to-day activities of this world and simply relax and reconnect with themselves.
Tips & Tricks For Kuari Pass Trek by Himalayan Daredevils Expert Guide
Kuari Pass Itinerary
Altitude: 2050m/6750ft
The journey takes approximately ten hours to cover the distance of 256 kilometers.
Trekkers will be picked up from Rishikesh by 6:30 AM.
All sights of interest are some distance away, including Joshimath, which is another long journey.
During the trip from Rishikesh to Joshimath, you will encounter various towns, each showcasing its beautiful scenery.
Short Itinerary for Day 1
DRIVE FROM RISHIKESH TO JOSHIMATH
Detailed Itinerary for Day 1:
The trek begins in Rishikesh, where transportation will be provided for pick-up at Rishikesh and will subsequently move on Badrinath Road. Suppose you are the kind of person who loves sightseeing as well as fun and adventure in the water you may choose to have a short stay in Rishikesh either before starting the trek or at the end. The journey from Rishikesh to Joshimath will take approximately a 10-hour trip and may become monotonous and tiring. However, you will never be short of breathtaking views along the way. The magnificent river that runs along with us will become more exciting as we begin our ascent. We will pass through Prayag, also known as the four prayags or four confluences of the Ganga.
Altitude: 2,900m/9,600ft
The route will take you from Joshimath to Dhak village covering a distance of 12 kilometers (2,050m/6750ft)
Here the trails consist of gradual as well as steep ascents and also a passage through several villages.
Satisfy yourself with the appetizing hot Lunch on the campsites
One of the many breathtaking mountain ranges in Dronagri, Hathi Parvat, and Gori Parvat will eventually be visible from this viewpoint.
Starting from Dhak village, the trek to Gulling top campsite will be an easy (5 km) hike.
There will be magnificent views of the peaks, the open grasslands, and more as you trek.
Short Itinerary for Day 2:
Drive from Joshimath to Dhak and Trek to Gulling Top
Detailed Itinerary for Day 2:
Upon arriving in Joshimath, we will be greeted by a stunning array of snow-capped peaks. Breakfast, which will be served early on this day, will be enjoyed before we depart for Dhak village, which lies in the Joshimath Tehsil & involves a bumpy ride of about 45 minutes. This shall mark the beginning of our trekking. It takes almost five hours to cover this trek, and those en route shall keep looking toward the gentle hills making up the beautiful mountains in Joshimath during the trekking period. The peaceful slopes seem to form the figure of a lady
lying in bed, otherwise known as the sleeping lady.
The trek begins at Dhak and ascends to a significant elevation. The dirt trail diverges from the road going up in the direction of Tugasi village. This particular trail has some sudden and sharp turns. As you walk, the terrain gradually slopes upward, starting gently before rising more steeply. This place, however is mostly rugged mountains. In the background left of the terrace farms, this area is devoid of much vegetation. Nevertheless, one can gaze beyond the wide terrain towards the Garhwal boundary that exists in each direction. If you see the thin bright streak glittering in the sun like a silver snake disappearing in the deep gorge, then it is the Dhauli-Ganga river. Also, watch out for the Vishnugad Tapovan power station, which is a hydroelectric project. You will not find any sign of snow in the region.
Approximately twenty to twenty-five minutes into the hike, you will reach Kharchi village, where you can refill your bottles and take some time to relax. Moving further, there is a trail at Kharchi on a deteriorating path and a valley extends on the right side. The ascent is quite abrupt with many switchbacks and abates when it gets to the Lower Tugasi area. It looks like a split in the trail as one now has two options to follow- one leads to a hydro-powered flour mill. In less than ten minutes, an upper region decorated with flower beds, wheat fields, and thatched houses can be reached. There are also a few streams flowing throughout the region.
Follow this route with a steady climb leaving the farmland to the left, and you will reach a place that has an awesome Dronagiri mountain which looks terrifying and rises vertically from a distance. After this, we will set-up our tents on open meadows with views of Dronagiri on the head and the oaks all around. The next day at dawn from this campsite you will witness the most spectacular sight of Dronagiri Peak with golden rays of sunlight falling on it.
Altitude: 3,350m/11,000ft
Approx 5 hours for a 5.5 km distance.
A hike will lead you through the deep jungle, mostly red and white oak, rhododendrons.
You will be spellbound after observing the beauty of this dark forest as well as nature walks.
Do not forget to remain behind our guide and enjoy the tasty lunch that has been prepared at the camp.
Sleep in tents for 1 night.
Short Itinerary for Day 3:
Detailed Itinerary for Day 3:
The next morning, try to wake up at a reasonable hour, as we will be going for a five-hour hike into the dense forests of Talli. After a couple of the previous days of difficult vertical gains, you will find any climb today quite manageable. The rest stops for refreshments are not overly strenuous, allowing you to take a stroll.
Hiking for about 20 minutes and then you’d reach an open, grassy patch with a view of the beautiful snow-capped peaks. After resting for a little while, it is necessary to go on, crossing over a little river, and then enter the thickening gorge of mixed woods inhabited by oak, and many other rhododendrons. If you visit the area in late March, then there is a chance that there will be some white and pink flowers. Apart from these plants, other varieties of conifers and walnut trees can also be found in the area.
As winter progresses into its most beautiful slides, one can find in the forests every part of them, harvested with snow. In this descriptive thickening of light and shade, coniferous forests of Gulling the second camp is set up during your trek behind this snow line.
Along this route, the Hathi-Ghori peaks are expected to already summit in clouds with the splendor of Dronagiri which now is a little towards the right
Altitude: 3,800m/12,500ft
Around 7 – 10 km Trek 5 – 6 hrs
Satisfactory breakfast is served, right before you move on the foot trail.
The statement lower portion consists of a steep ascent, while the upper portion features a gradual incline with a clearer description of the climbing process.
The wide meadows have summer grass ranging from golden yellow to bright green color. They lie dormant and melt into plush snow in the winter months.
The journey towards Khullar summit leads to a bridge that has collapsed over a frozen stream (12200 feet)
From the broken bridge, the journey will commence toward Kuari which is located at an elevation of 12,500 feet.
Bring along a water bottle filled with adequate water, as there is no water source the whole way up.
Short Itinerary for Day 4:
Detailed Itinerary for Day 4:
The summit day falls on the fourth day of the trek which is likely to be between ten and eleven hours, depending on the pace of your group. The weather would be very unpleasant today, so great care must be taken to dress well for the heavy snow and blizzarding weather conditions along the slopes. There will not be a single source of water in the coming days, so ensure you have enough water to last your needs throughout.
The fourth day is the summit day which requires 10 – 11 hours depending on the pace of your group members. You must dress knowing the fact that there will be high snow and strong snow winds on the slopes today. There is, therefore, no possibility of any water source within the next few days, therefore it is essential to carry enough water to meet your needs.
The initial phase of the trek will lead you to the Khullara summit, moderate in difficulty and 3.5 kilometers in length. There, an uninterrupted bridge and winter streams need to be crossed before another ridge ascends to the highest point and here snow will make it extremely difficult as well as tiresome to the body. Breaks are allowed approximately every fifteen minutes to rest. In Jhandi Dhar, an ideal place to rest at a distance of two hours into the hike, it can be possible to take even the headache of resting for some amount of time. It is possible to have a midday meal at either the temple or on the way to the temple during the trek.
Make it a point to make sure your shoes are properly fastened or tightened before setting off for a trek. Moreover, gaiters will be provided by us.
The peak of this trek is a burst of views of how many Garhwal huge mountains can be seen. The iconic Chaukhambha, Balakun, Neel Kantha, Mukut Parvat, Kamet, Abhi Gamin, Mana I, Ghori Parvat, Hathi Parvat, Dronagiri, Kalanka, Changabang, Nanda Devi, Nanda Ghunti ranges.
Go in despair over a steady bridge and over streams that seem to remain like ice in the harshest winter, now followed onto ridges where the terrain Gained elevation up to the highest point and now became very hard as it was covered by snow. After every interval of 15 minutes, one is allowed to rest and breathe also. In Jhandi Dhar, an additional opportunistic location for a two-hour snooze further into the trail is also recommendable – the list of places. Lunch can be consumed slightly in between the trek or after arriving at the temple at the down base of the Kuari high-regarded pass.
Ensure that you lace your shoes properly so that they do not loosen. For this endeavour, the Himalayan Daredevils shall guide you.
Altitude: 2,050m/6,750ft
Breakfast at Camp.
Lunch: A packed lunch is provided during the journey.
Once there, it is also possible to have meals and snacks in Joshimath.
Short Itinerary for Day 5:
Detailed Itinerary for Day 5:
This day, we set forth towards Auli, which is regarded as the skiing capital of India and one of the finest in South Asia. At Auli on the way back, we will try out some wonderful excursions to marvelous snowfalls shed valleys which lead towards Gorson Bugyal. Strolling around the Bugyals of Gorson does not involve too much strenuous climbing where mainly walking on a flat surface. However, during the summer and winter months, the high snowfall can make the place a bit dull. In March, when winter snow begins to melt, skiing becomes a popular activity.
Upon arrival at Auli, the only way to get to Joshimath is through a cable car that glides over and beyond a gently sloping, white cosy ski resort, surrounded by a thick layer of pine trees all faded out with the onset of autumn.
Altitude: 12,000 ft – 12,000ft
Short Itinerary for Day 5:
Early wake-up for departure as the ride will start at six o'clock getting to the last destination by eight o’clock in the evening. After that, you may book the tickets back to your home town.
Reviews Videos
Inclusions
Exclusions
1. Meals while on trek (Veg. + Egg).
2. All necessary entry fees and permits.
3. Accommodation: - Guest house, Home stay, camping during Trek.
4. Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader, guide, cook and Support staff.
5. First aid medical kits, stretcher and oxygen cylinder.
6. Trek equipment: Sleeping bag, mattress, tent, kitchen & dinning tent, toilet tent, utensils and crampon (if required)
7. Staff Insurance.
8. Porters/mules to carry central equipment.
1. Any kind of personal expenses.
2. Food during the transit.
3. Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
4. Insurance.
5. Any kind of emergency evacuation charges
6. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.
7. Transport (Non Ac)
8. GST- 5%
9.Any expense incurred or loss cost by reasons beyond our control such as bad weather, natural calamities (landslides, floods), flight delays/rescheduling/ cancellations, any accidents/medical evacuations, riots/strikes/war/pandemics etc.
1. Meals while on trek (Veg. + Egg).
2. All necessary entry fees and permits.
3. Accommodation: - Guest house, Home stay, camping during Trek.
4. Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader, guide, cook and Support staff.
5. First aid medical kits, stretcher and oxygen cylinder.
6. Trek equipment: Sleeping bag, mattress, tent, kitchen & dinning tent, toilet tent, utensils and crampon (if required)
7. Staff Insurance.
8. Porters/mules to carry central equipment.
1. Any kind of personal expenses.
2. Food during the transit.
3. Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
4. Insurance.
5. Any kind of emergency evacuation charges
6. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.
7. Transport (Non Ac)
8. GST- 5%
9.Any expense incurred or loss cost by reasons beyond our control such as bad weather, natural calamities (landslides, floods), flight delays/rescheduling/ cancellations, any accidents/medical evacuations, riots/strikes/war/pandemics etc.
What should you carry for the Kuari Pass Trek?
Clothing
If you're planning to take the Kuari Pass trekking excursion, you will have to come with sturdy and waterproof trekking boots. These boots provide the required support for your ankles and also shield you from wet conditions. Moisture-wicking socks should be worn over the feet; these are important, especially for long hikes on days where less hiking takes place to keep the feet blisters-free. You also need quick dry t-shirts that act as base layers for your upper body and fabrics that are warm enough such as fleeces or down jackets for warm clothes on cool nights or cold weather conditions. A waterproof jacket is also important for your safety since it will help you avoid rain and wind which can also be uncomfortable. Wear trekking pants that are lightweight and streamlined as they are less likely to hinder movements. And a warm hat and gloves for protection against the cold at night or high altitude parts. You should also pack a sun hat which will protect the face from sunburn and provide relief to the face and head from heat in the daytime.
Gear
A decent 40 to 60-liter volume and comfortable fit large backpack is an essential piece of equipment for any outdoor enthusiast. Choose a model with a hip belt and well-padded shoulder straps for better support when on the trail. Also, if you go on such treks, you should carry a pair of trekking poles with you, these will give extra stability to your body on uneven terrain and relieve the knee joint from additional stress while going down the slopes. When the temperature drops at night, you should have with you a camper’s sleeping bag according to the season, while in case if your trekking company does not provide the tent, a lightweight tent will do the work. To conclude this section on possessions to carry, a sleeping mat is extremely recommended for a warm night’s sleep since it provides better insulation from the cold ground.
Essentials
It is very important to always remain refreshed, so carry water or a hydration bladder with a capacity of not less than 2 liters. It is also necessary to have water purifying pills or a small filter for protection against unsafe water. Carry in addition a first aid kit for succumbing minor injuries therefore make provision for basic first aid supplies, such as your own medicine. During the night, you need a good headlamp or torch, and ensure you have spare batteries. A multi-tool or knife is essential for anything from food preparation to equipment repair.
Food and Snacks
As for food, you can bring some energy bars or a trail mix for a quick energy boost while on the trail. If you are going to cook food, consider taking light cooking equipment, for example, a transportable stove and pot. Ready to eat food is a very nice idea too, since it is so easy to cook and does not require any elaborate preparations; which is great to have nutritious food without putting on too much weight.
Navigation and Safety
Whenever navigation is concerned, a map and a compass come in handy; be sure you can use them. A GPS or a smartphone with preloaded maps helps you avoid veering off track especially when trail signs are not well positioned. Have a whistle for safety reasons; it might turn out to be very useful for getting help if there is a need. However, Himalayan Daredevils will help you in trekking.
Personal Items
As for personal hygiene, sunscreen is extremely important, especially when at high altitude levels, so as to keep the skin safe from UV rays. Lip balm with SPF will help prevent chapped lips in dry conditions. Carry a reasonably comprehensive but minimalist toiletries kit, opting for biodegradable materials to lessen the effects on the environment. A pack with quick-dry towels comes in handy for this and for use after one has washed or after one is wet from rain.
How to reach Kuari Pass Trek
By Road
It is quite easy to get to Rishikesh by road as it is connected to major cities in North India. In case one is traveling from Delhi, NH44 - about a 6-8 hour trip depending on whether there is a lot of traffic. Buses also run quite often to and from Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun which are not that expensive. For better comfort consider getting a taxi or taxi services. The route goes along the riverbank of the Ganges adding to the joy of traveling, instead of dreading the drive.
By Air
The closest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport which is located in Dehradun which is about 20 km distance from the city of Rishikesh. There are frequent flights from Dehradun to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. When you arrive, you can take a bus or a taxi to Rishikesh which will take you around 30-45 minutes to get there. This option will suit those, who are in a hurry to go somewhere and who want some comfort as many ways to get to and from the airport are available.
By Train
Another option for reaching Rishikesh is by train, with the nearest major railway station being Haridwar, which is around twenty-five kilometers away. Haridwar is comparatively an important city as it has train connections with Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai quite frequently. From Haridwar, it is very easy to get a taxi or local bus to go to Rishikesh, enjoying the beautiful scenery on the way. This kind of transportation is inexpensive as well as provides an interesting view of the lives of the people.
Fitness Required & Preparation Guide
We recommend jogging as the best routine to get fit for a trek. It works on the same muscles that you use while trekking — your calves, glutes and hamstrings. It helps increase your stamina day by day. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.
Fitness target:
To do this trek comfortably, you must be able to cover 5 km in under 35 minutes. This is the minimum fitness required for this trek.
How to achieve this fitness?
- Start jogging at least 4 days a week
- If you cannot run 5 km immediately, start with 2 km and increase to 5 km over 2-3 weeks.
- Once you’re able to run 5 km, increase your pace day by day.
- Gradually increase your pace and bring it down to 5 km in less than 35 mins.
- You must be able to run 5 km in 35 mins consistently for at least 2 weeks before the trek.
This trek requires at least 6-8 weeks of preparation. The longer, the better. So plan your trek soon and start preparing.
FAQ Kuari Pass Trek
The control of the snow and weather conditions allows this kind of excursion from late September to early November and from March to early June. This is because of an overall pleasant weather during these months, clearer skies serenity and warm weather not hot which is perfect for trekking.
Moderate mountain trekking such as the Kuari Pass trek comes at a rookie level of difficulty. Each of these trips will best fit people with the right amount of fitness in the absence of mountains to seasoned climbers. As for the steep sections found on the way, there are some, but the distance as a whole, most trekkers will be able to take in their stride.
Though prior trekking may be useful, it is not essential. The trek is suitable for all levels and sophistication of training, although it is advisable that one should be in shape and prepared for the undertaking to make the most of the ordeal.
Accommodation on Kuari Pass Trek is often in style of camping with tents pitched up while on the Way. Some of the trekking agencies may have a few options for accommodation in guesthouses or homestays in the towns used as bases, however there are only so many opportunities for guesthouses which does allow one to to get deeper into the countryside potentialities.
The most important items required include good trekking boots, a suitable backpack, several layers of warm clothes, a warm and waterproof jacket, a sleeping bag, and poles, first aid kit and the little things such as sunscreen and a water filter bag. The most important thing is that you must minimize your loads and not pack everything that you think is usable.
Some experienced trekkers may choose to trek in solitary, but trekking in a guided group is highly recommended, especially in the case of Kuari Pass trek. Himalayan Daredevils provides added safety and support, making the trip more enjoyable, since you will be able to learn from them a lot about the people and environment.
Cancellation policy
Life is unpredictable and we understand sometimes you have to cancel or change your trip dates and it is our endeavour to make it as easy possible for you. However, please understand we plan everything including guide fees, permits, accommodation and ration in advance. Therefore any cancellation means inconvenience and certain losses to the people involved in various stages of programme. Keeping that in mind, our cancellation charges are as below-
Cancellation prior to 30 days from start of the event: Get monetary refund with 15% of cancellation charges on trek fee.
Cancellation between 30 days and 15 days to the start of event: 50% on trek fee is non refundable and the remaining 50 % will be given as cash voucher which is valid for 1 year.
Cancellation less than 15 days to the start of event: No refund.
Please note cancellation will be only accepted by email.
Booking amount is non refundable
Note: The Himalayan Daredevils reserves the right to cancel a programme before departure in the event of logistical problems arriving due to natural calamities, strikes, wars on any other circumstances that makes the event inadvisable. In this case, 50% on trek fee is non refundable and the remaining 50 % will be given as cash voucher which is valid for 1 year.
Itinerary changes & trip delays:
We plan itineraries based on the information at the time of planning and in rare circumstances, there are subject to change. In the event that the itinerary is changes or delayed due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, landslides etc. We will always aim to give you the best experience possible. However The Himalayan Daredevils are not be held responsible for the cost of delay or changes.
Why Choose Us
Our Best Performance
50,000+
Trekkers
PAN India Treks
250+
Treks
Professional
and Experienced Staff
Best
Grade Equipment
Well Organised
Trek Itineraries
Related Blogs
Read and get more about our treks
The Importance of Using Two Trekking Poles on Himalayan Treks
Promoting knowledge about well-being while trekking in the Himalayas
How To Plan A Kedarkantha Trek Tour Within Your Budget
10 of the Best Himalayan Treks You Must Do
Kedarkantha Trek & Tour Package - A Complete Guide
How To Choose Your First Himalayan Trek
Trekking In Uttarakhand: Exploring The Majestic Himalayas
Affiliated and Recognised by
