About Kuari Pass
Kuari Pass trek is one of the most magnificent treks in Uttarakhand to explore, located in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas. The trek is also known as Lord Curzon’s Trails because it was Lord Curzon who happened to discover this Kuari pass trek route, situated at around 3,800 meters (12,500 feet).
For those who enjoy hiking, the Kuari Pass Trek promises an amazing experience. This journey, which is well-known for its breathtaking views and varied landscapes, offers an amazing perspective of some of the highest peaks in the Indian Himalayas, including Nanda Devi, which is the country's second-highest peak.
Along with being a visual feast, the path provides a wealth of cultural experiences, including the chance to engage with and learn about the customs of the nearby Garhwali community.
- Difficulty- Easy-Moderate
- Duration- 6 Days
- Maximum Altitude- 12,763 ft
- Pickup point - Rishikesh/Haridwar
- Base Camp- Joshimath/Lower Auli
- Minimum Age to opt for Kuari Pass Trek- 8 Years
- Best time to visit- Mid-September to Mid December
- Nearest Railway Station- Rishikesh Junction
- Nearest Airport- Jolly Grant Airport
- Start Point- Rishikesh
- End point- Rishikesh
Trek Details
- Pickup Point on Day 1- Natraj Chowk or Tapovan, Rishikesh
- Departure time on Day 1- 6 am
- Drop Point on Day 6- Natraj Chowk or Tapovan, Rishikesh
- Arrival time on Day 6 - 6 pm
- Base Camp- Joshimath/Lower Auli
- Distance from Rishikesh to Basecamp, Joshimath- 260 km
- Cloakroom: There is no separate cloakroom available. You can hand over your luggage to our team and collect it while returning. We keep it safely at Joshimath/Lower Auli in the same Homestay.
- The shared vehicle will be a Tata Sumo, Bolero, or a similar kind and may be shared with a few other local passengers. The cab will be arranged from Rishikesh to Joshimath/Lower Auli and back.
- We charge Rs.1200/- per person on each side per person.
- The cab is a 7-seater.
- The whole journey by cab costs 7500/- from Rishikesh.
- Trekkers may choose to travel by bus or local cab to reach Joshimath/Lower Auli.
- The forest permits for international clients will be as actual and are to be paid by the trekker at the base camp only.
How to Reach Kuari Pass?
Kuari Pass Trek has a very well-established connectivity with the important towns of Uttarakhand which makes it very easily accessible.
By Air:-
The airport that’s accessible in Dehradun is Jolly Grant Airport. It is located at a distance of 43 km from Haridwar. The airport is at a distance of 204 km from Joshimath.
There are flights operational from Delhi to Dehradun daily which makes the journey very flexible. If opting for a flight, try reaching one day prior.
By Train:-
Haridwar has a well-established rail network that connects it to the major cities of the country like Delhi, Mumbai, and Lucknow to name a few.
- From Delhi- DDN NZM AC EXPRESS (2205)
- From Kolkata- Doon Express (13009)
- From Mumbai- Dehradun Express (19019)
- From Chennai- Dehradun Express (12687)
By Bus:-
Haridwar bus stand has connectivity with all the important towns across the country. Direct buses are available from the bus stands of different towns. Both government buses and private buses are available thus providing ample options.
If you are travelling from Dehradun then buses are available from Dehradun also.
Dehradun to Joshimath direct buses are available from Mussorie Bus Station around 5:30 a.m.
Another option available is :-
- Dehradun-Gopeshwar- Mandal- Chamoli.
If one wants to travel from Rishikesh then Rishikesh to Joshimath state transport buses are also available. One has to change the bus from midway(Chamoli).
- Rishikesh to Chamoli to Joshimath.
How to Reach Rishikesh from Haridwar via Nepali Farm -
If a trekker is coming from Roorkee or Haridwar via local transport and wants to reach Rishikesh then you can get a local vehicle but sometimes you might have to change the vehicle at Nepali farm which is a T-point or T-junction.
From here you can get local buses or local transport to reach Dehradun and Rishikesh. Rishikesh is approximately 7-10 km away from Nepali farm.
If you wish to go to Dehradun then take the left turn from the T point while coming from Haridwar and reach Dehradun via Doiwala.
Roorkee/Haridwar → Nepali farm(T-point) → Dehradun/Rishikesh
What is the best time to do the Kuari Pass trek?
KUARI PASS IN MARCH AND APRIL
If you want to see new greenery intermingled with snow, this is the best time to do the Kuari pass trek.
March and April signal the end of winter and the arrival of spring. During these months, the Pass is distinguished by melting remnant snow, vibrantly colored meadows, and trees that become rich emerald green. It also provides hikers with the invigorating scent of flowers, particularly Rhododendrons. In March, glimpses of white and pink cherry blossoms are also seen.
KUARI PASS IN MAY AND JUNE
If you want to experience solitude and peace, this is the best time to do the Kuari pass trek.
During the summer, the days get lighter, allowing visitors unobstructed vistas of the snow-covered mountains. During these months, the Gorson Bugyal develops a rich verdant green cover.
The meadows take on a bright golden tint as they are encircled by age-old evergreen trees. This walk is less busy during these months, so you may experience it in greater solitude and peace.
KAURI PASS IN SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER
These post-monsoon months offer the greatest trekking opportunities in Kuari Pass trek.
After the monsoon season, the grasslands and woods spring to life and shimmer. The perfect Kuari pass weather throughout these months attracts a large number of hikers.
During these months, the pleasant weather patterns, as well as the stunningly clear and sharp vistas of the lofty Dronagiri and Nanda Devi peaks, are unrivaled.
Weather and temperature of Kuari Pass Trek
The most favorable temperature is observed in the summer months starting from April and continuing to mid-June because the temperature ranges between 18 to 24 degrees Celsius.
During the months of spring and autumn, the weather is pleasant, and clear skies are observed. Yet, during the night, the temperature of the Kuari Pass Trek can fall and is chilly.
In November, the daytime temperature is optimal and cool whereas the nights are a bit cold.
The winter temperature falls to the extreme of -8 degrees Celsius with the maximum temperature not more than 12 degrees Celsius.
In the Tali forest trail and the Lower Khullara region, the temperature might even drop to the extent of -15 degrees Celsius as the winter in the region is fierce in the months from December to February.
What is the Kuari Pass trek difficulty?
Kuari Pass trek is classified under the category of an easy-moderate trek. Therefore this is considered as the most ideal trek for a beginner.
It also offers its own sets of challenges, which include the high altitude, rocky terrains, and trail that involves a steep climb. One should, hence, be both physically fit and ideally equipped before undertaking the trek.
The trek starts at an altitude of 6,900 feet from Dhak which further reaches up to a maximum altitude of 12,763 feet above sea level which is encountered at the pass. The temperature variations and the weather conditions are also fierce which demands before-hand preparations.
The average trek duration experienced everyday forms an average of 4-5 hours except on the day involving the crossing of the pass when it takes an average of 8 hours. This short span of the Kuari pass trek is another factor that makes it favorable for beginners.
What is the distance of the Kuari pass trek?
Starting from the small town of Joshimath, the six day trek passes through thick forest covers with mixed vegetation of Oak, rhododendrons, and other coniferous trees. The trek distance for Kuari Pass trek is 33 km.
Major attractions of the Kuari Pass Trek
The major attractions include several regions of the Kuari pass trek that allow you to have a 360-degree view of the Himalayan peaks which undoubtedly form the heart of the trek. It offers the view of peaks from 7000 meters club including Trishul (7120m), Kamet (7756m), Nanda Devi (7817m), Chaukhamba (7128m), and the majestic twin peaks of Nanda Devi East (7434m).
Other prominent peaks that make their appearance include Mukut Parbat, Mana, Rishi Pahad, Changbang, Nanda Ghunti, Hathi Ghoda Parbat, Neelkanth, Dronagiri, and many such mountain tops.
The trek commences at Joshimath, which lies in the Chamoli district of the Himalayas. Another treasure that this Lord Curzon's trail beholds is the cultural treasure, the small remote hamlets that you will cross through on your way uphill. Moreover, Himalayan black bears and the paw prints of leopards are also sometimes sighted on the track uphill.
Another major highlight that makes Kuari Pass Trek a wonder is the ethereal setting of the campsites. Contrary to the popular belief that trekking is all about ascending and descending rush, the Kuari Pass trek compels you to pause. It offers you the campsite that makes you want to stay and adore the blessings of nature.
Whether it’s the Khullara campsite with Mt. Dronagiri as its stunning backdrop or any other campsite on the Kuari Pass Trek is truly awe-inspiring.
- Kuari Pass
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Day 1: Pickup from Rishikesh and drive to Joshimath/Lower Auli
- The trek will begin from Rishikesh - Natraj Chowk or Tapovan early in the morning at 6:00 a.m.
- Altitude: 6724 ft.
- The distance covered is 256 km
- Time taken for the journey is 9-10 hours approx.
- The journey will be completely covered by a cab and is accompanied by the scenic beauty of mountains
- Cab service is not included in the package and is optional. Trekkers can also use public or personal vehicle to reach Joshimath.
- Water and telephone networks are available
- Accommodation in the guest house
The drive to Joshimath is 9-10 hours and therefore it can be arduous and tiring but the enchanting views will keep your excitement at its crest. On the way uphill you will encounter the devprayag sangam and other famous villages in Tehri, Garhwal region.
The stay will be either at Joshimath or Lower Auli, depending on the season and the availability of guesthouses. During peak months like December and January, the choice of accommodation may vary and could be in either location.
Day 2: Joshimath/Lower Auli to Dhak to Gulling Top
- The trek starts from Lower/AuliJoshimath early in the morning, making its way to the Gulling Top via Dhak
- An altitude gain of 2876ft is observed from 6724ft to 9600 ft.
- Total distance covered is 18 km
- Time taken for the journey is 4 hours approx.
- The trail of the trek includes steep ascent.
- 14 km of the total is distance (Lower Auli/Joshimath to Dhak Village) is covered by a cab while the remaining 6km (Dhak Village to Gulling Top) is covered by trekking
- Water is available at the villages to fill water bottles
- Accommodation is provided in tents.
The dawn at Joshimath will break to the mesmerizing sight of a host of snow-capped peaks. After having breakfast for the day, we set out for Dhak Village which lies in the Joshimath tehsil.
The terrain is rocky and the drive takes about 45 minutes. From Dhak village, the trekking commences.
The trek up from Dhak village is a continuous ascent. The rough terrain is a combination of sharp T-turns and gradually ascending soft slopes. The terrain doesn't offer much greenery apart from some of the terrace farming lands. It offers a splendid view of the Garhwal frontier as well.
The sight of the gently flowing stream of Dhauli-Ganga disappearing into the mountains seems almost celestial. Vishnugad-Tapovan, which is a hydroelectric power station, is another remarkable landmark encountered on the way.
After half an hour of trekking, you will come across Kharchi village, where you can rest and fill your water bottles for the journey ahead. After following a steep ascending rocky trail with the valley to the left, you will find yourself at the Lower Tugasi area.
Here onwards the trail separates into two, following the one which curves along with the hydropower-run flour mill. Another 10 minutes on the aforementioned path will lead you to the Upper Tugasi region.
This region is the home to wheat fields, thatched-roofed huts, gentle streams, flower beds, and other blessings of nature.
Further following this path and the steep climb, you will find yourself against the view of the splendid Dronagiri peak, emerging at a distance.
The trek for the day ceases here. Tents will be pitched on the lush green meadows with the view of Dronagiri and the lining of the oak forest to accompany you.
Day 3: Guling Top to Khullara/Tali Campsite
- The trek begins at the Gulling top and ends at Khullara.
- Altitude gain from 9,600 ft (2,864 m) to 11,800 ft (3,391 m)
- Total distance covered is 4 km
- Time taken for the journey is approx. 3-4 hours
- The Trek gradient from Guling to Khullara is a moderate ascent.
- Accommodation is provided in tents
You will leave the campsite for your trek to Khullara/Tali. The campsite will be either Khullara or Tali Forest, depending on the season and availability for pitching tents.
Though the trail is a steady ascent, it isn’t a steep one. The trail is accustomed to the frequent occurrence of small streams. The water in the streams is clean enough to be fit for drinking. The trek for the day is short and not so tiring, lasting for not more than 3-4 hours.
All this while, the Dronagiri peak will be accompanying you on the left. Another peak that shows up in this region is the Hathi Ghoda peak.
Ultimately you will reach Khullara/Tali at an altitude of 11,800 ft. where the trek for the day will cease followed by overnight stay in tents under the open sky.
Day 4: Khullara/Tali Campsite to Kuari Pass and return to Khullara campsite/Tali Campsite
- The trek begins from Khullara followed by a tough climb from broken bridge to Kuari Pass.
- There is an initial altitude gain uphill from 11,800 ft to 12,750 ft (3,900 m)
- Time taken for the trek is approx 9-10 hours
- Total distance covered is 14 km
- The trek gradient falls under moderate to difficult. It involves a steep climb followed by a moderate ascent.
- Accommodation in tents
The trail further from Khullara/Tali is a steep ascend. 1-1.5 hour of climbing takes you to the ridge which is a part of Lord Curzon’s trail.
This point offers you a 360-degree view of the Himalaya. From here, you can see Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Dronagiri, Nilgiri, and Hathi Ghoda peaks on one side and Trishul and parts of Nanda Devi right ahead of you.
Continuing along the trail will bring you to Kuari Top, a roughly 40-minute ascent with a moderate incline. From there, a 40-minute descent will lead you to Kuari Pass. From this point, retrace your steps back to the ridge.
After reaching the ridge, climb for an hour to reach the Jhandi Top, which lies at the top of the ridge. The captivating view of the Jhandi top will make you reluctant to leave.
Further trekking through the trek for 40 minutes will bring you to the campsite which is located right in the center of the forest with streams flowing by.
Day 5: Khullara camp - Lower/AuliJoshimath via Gurson bugyal (11150 ft) and Auli (9680 ft)
- The trek for the day begins at Khullara campsite concluding at Joshimath making its way through Gurson Bugyala and Auli
- The trek involves a continuous descend from 11800 ft to 6724ft
- Total distance covered in the day is approximately 27km
- Time taken to cover the distance is 7 hours approx
- 12-14 km of the journey covered by trekking while the remaining 13 km is a drive-by a cab.
- Water is available at various sites along the way.
- Accommodation in guest houses at Joshimath/Lower Auli
Trek for this day will lead you to Auli. Auli is the skiing capital of India and is very renowned in South Asia as well. The trek to Auli runs through the mesmerizing snow-covered valleys of Gorson Bugyal.
After exploring the valleys of Gorson Bugyal, a smooth terrain will lead you down to Auli. The cable car ride is available in Auli to reach Joshimath, which serves as a major tourist spot.
The cab drive from Auli to Joshimath is about an hour. Overnight stay at Joshimath/Lower Auli as aforementioned in either of the guest houses is arranged.
Day 6: Drive from Lower Auli/Joshimath to Rishikesh
- The drive will commence from Lower Auli/Joshimath.
- The total distance for the drive is 256 km
- Time taken is 10 hours approx
- Cab service: Not included in the package.
To reiterate, cab service is not included in the package but available additionally if required by a trekker. Or trekkers have to use either personal or public transport to reach Rishikesh.
The time spent at Kuari Pass trek and its exquisitely beautiful campsites will provide you with a bucket full of memories that will always stay close to your heart.
