↜ Trek through vast, snow-covered meadows ↝
Kuari Pass Trek
Region
Joshimath
Duration
6 Days
Max Altitude
12750 Ft.
Trekking
27 KM
Grade
Moderate
Overview
The Kuari Pass Trek, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, is renowned for its captivating landscapes, rich history, and panoramic views of some of India’s highest peaks, including Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Kamet. Often called the “Lord Curzon’s Trail” after the British viceroy who popularized it, the trek offers a mix of lush green meadows, dense oak and rhododendron forests, and breathtaking ridge walks. This six-day itinerary starts from Dehradun, with the journey leading trekkers through picturesque villages and serene campsites, ultimately reaching the iconic Kuari Pass. It is an ideal trek for those seeking moderate adventure combined with magnificent views and diverse terrains.
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Joshimath
- Distance: 290 km
- Duration: 8-9 hours
- Altitude: 2,100 ft (640 m) to 6,150 ft (1,875 m)
- Accommodation: Hotel/Resort
Day 2: Drive from Joshimath to Dhak and Trek to Guling
- Drive: 7 km (15 minutes)
- Trek Distance: 5 km
- Trek Duration: 3 hours
- Altitude: 6,150 ft (1,875 m) to 9,186 ft (2,800 m)
- Accommodation: Camping
Day 3: Trek from Guling to Khullara
- Trek Distance: 5 km
- Trek Duration: 4 hours
- Altitude: 9,186 ft (2,800 m) to 10,990 ft (3,350 m)
- Accommodation: Camping
Day 4: Trek from Tali to Kuari Pass and Return to Khullara
- Trek Distance: 10 km
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
- Altitude: 10,990 ft (3,350 m) to 12,532 ft (3,820 m) to 11,515 ft (3,510 m)
Day 5: Trek from Tali to Auli via Gorson Bugyal; Drive to Joshimath
- Trek Distance: 7 km
- Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
- Drive: 7 km (15 minutes)
- Altitude: 11,515 ft (3,510 m) to 6,150 ft (1,875 m)
Day 6: Drive from Joshimath to Dehradun
- Distance: 290 km
- Duration: 9-10 hours
- Altitude: 6,150 ft (1,875 m) to 2,100 ft (640 m)
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Joshimath
- Distance: 290 km
- Duration: 8-9 hours
- Altitude: 2,100 ft (640 m) to 6,150 ft (1,875 m)
- Accommodation: Hotel/Resort
- Route Highlights: The journey from Dehradun to Joshimath is a long but scenic drive through winding mountain roads. En route, travelers pass through Devprayag, where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers meet to form the Ganges. The route also includes picturesque views of Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, and other small towns set against the backdrop of the Himalayas. Joshimath is a vibrant town with historical and religious significance, serving as the base for many treks and pilgrimages.
Day 2: Drive from Joshimath to Dhak and Trek to Guling
- Drive: 7 km (15 minutes)
- Trek Distance: 5 km
- Trek Duration: 3 hours
- Altitude: 6,150 ft (1,875 m) to 9,186 ft (2,800 m)
- Accommodation: Camping
- Trek Highlights: After a short drive to Dhak, the trek begins with a gradual ascent through small villages and terraced fields. The path transitions into a forest trail surrounded by oak and rhododendron trees. The final stretch to Guling is marked by panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks. Guling is a beautiful campsite with clear night skies perfect for stargazing.
Day 3: Trek from Guling to Khullara
- Trek Distance: 5 km
- Trek Duration: 4 hours
- Altitude: 9,186 ft (2,800 m) to 10,990 ft (3,350 m)
- Accommodation: Camping
- Trek Highlights: This segment involves a steady climb with a few steep sections. The trail is enveloped by dense forest that eventually opens up to the wide meadows of Khullara. Trekkers can enjoy stunning views of Mount Dronagiri and other peaks as they reach the campsite. The evening is spent at the serene Khullara campsite.
Day 4: Trek from Tali to Kuari Pass and Return to Khullara
- Trek Distance: 10 km
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
- Altitude: 10,990 ft (3,350 m) to 12,532 ft (3,820 m) to 11,515 ft (3,510 m)
- Trek Highlights: This is the most rewarding day of the trek. Starting from Tali, the path includes a ridge walk that offers unparalleled views of the Himalayan range. The final ascent to Kuari Pass is a moderate climb with breathtaking 360-degree views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Hathi-Ghoda Parvat. After savoring the views, trekkers descend to Khullara for the night.
Day 5: Trek from Tali to Auli via Gorson Bugyal; Drive to Joshimath
- Trek Distance: 7 km
- Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
- Drive: 7 km (15 minutes)
- Altitude: 11,515 ft (3,510 m) to 6,150 ft (1,875 m)
- Trek Highlights: The trail from Tali to Auli passes through the beautiful Gorson Bugyal, an expansive meadow that offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. The descent is gentle, with plenty of opportunities for photography. Auli, a famous skiing destination, marks the end of the trek. From there, a short drive takes trekkers back to Joshimath for a well-deserved rest.
Day 6: Drive from Joshimath to Dehradun
- Distance: 290 km
- Duration: 9-10 hours
- Altitude: 6,150 ft (1,875 m) to 2,100 ft (640 m)
- Route Highlights: The return journey to Dehradun offers time to reflect on the trek’s highlights while enjoying the scenic mountain vistas along the way. Arrive in Dehradun by evening to conclude the adventure.
Things to Carry
Backpack with rain cover | (50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
Day pack with rain cover | 20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
Water Bottle / Hydration pack | 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
Small size tiffin/lunch box | 1 Nos |
Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electoral/ors |
Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Full & 2 Half sleeves |
Fleece T-shirt | 1 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece jacket | 1 Nos |
Windproof Jacket | 1 Nos |
Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 Nos |
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower) | 1 Pair |
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry) | 2 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece Pant | 1 Nos |
Waterproof gloves | 1 Pair |
Fleece / woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant | 1 Nos |
Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
Sun Cap | 1 Nos |
Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
Balaclava | 1 Nos. |
Buff | 1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen |
Sunglasses | UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses |
Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle, good grip) |
Floaters / flip-flops | 1 Pair |
Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
Woollen socks | 1 pairs |
Gaiters | 1 Pair (We will provide when required) |
Micro spikes | 1 Pair (We will provide when required) |
Inclusion & Exclusion
- Meals during the trek
- Forest Permits/Camping Charges. Included only upto amount charged for Indian Nationals
- Tents, Sleeping bags, mats
- Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
- Trek guide, cook, helpers, porters & mules for carrying common luggage
- Services of a Certified Trek Leader
- Meals during road journeys
- Carriage of Personal Bags during the trek
- Any kind of Insurance
- Any expense of personal nature
- Any expense not specified in the inclusion list.
FAQ's
The best time to undertake the Kuari Pass Trek is from April to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the views are clear.
Yes, the Kuari Pass Trek is considered a moderate trek suitable for beginners with a reasonable fitness level and prior trekking experience.
Accommodation includes camping in tents at higher altitudes and hotel stays in Joshimath.
Essential items include warm clothing, waterproof jackets, sturdy trekking shoes, a backpack, water bottles, and basic personal items.
Mobile network connectivity is available in Joshimath and Dhak, but the signal becomes unreliable as you move further into the trek.