Kuari Pass Trek

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Trek Overview

Located in the heart of Gharwal Himalayas, Kuari Pass is one of the most magnificent sites in India to explore. Acting as the amphitheatre for the stalwart Himalayan mountain range, this one of the most beautiful treks in India. The maximum altitude of the trek is 12,763 ft. The trek is also known as Lord Curzon’s Trails because it was Lord Curzon who made this beautiful discovery of exploring the trek. Being an easy trek, it is an absolute blessing for anyone who is not prepared for a rigorous trek and yet wants to experience the marvellous feeling of trekking.Several regions of the trek 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, and Changbang, Nanda Ghunti, Hathi Ghoda Parbat, Neelkanth, Dronagirito, and many such peaks.The trek commences at Joshimath, which lies in the Chamoli district of Himalayas. Gradually Joshimath has come to be popular as a hub for trekkers and pilgrims in the Gharwal region of the Himalayas. Apart from mighty mountain ranges, the region is also the home of several perennial rivers which most importantly includes the Pancha-Prayag – namely, Devprayag, Karnaprayag, Devprayag, and Rudraprayag. Other rivers include Pinder, Kaliganga, Nandakini, Birehiganga & Dhauli Ganga. Another treasure that this trail beholds is the cultural treasure, the small remote hamlets that you will cross through while your way uphill will enrich your knowledge but culture and life of mountain folks.Flora and fauna found in the place make it even more captivating and enticing. Himalayan black bears and the paw prints of leopards are also sometimes sighted on the track uphill. The trail is almost throughout accompanied by thick forest covers with mixed vegetation od Oak, rhododendrons, and other coniferous trees. In the month of March, the sight of white and pink cherry blossoms is also possible. The trail with a combination of smooth and rugged terrain, mostly covered with snow is no less than a paradise for trek enthusiasts.

Highlights of the Kuari Pass Trek

One of the major attractions of the trek is the expanse of dense forest consisting of oak and rhododendrons. The forests are of ancient origin which makes them even more spectacular. The trails make its way through patches of thick forests followed by open grounds and lush green meadows further followed by forests. This interplay of landscapes makes the trek much more interesting and intriguing.A gorgeous feature that attracts swarms of people from across the globe to this place is the army of mountains that it unravels to you- starting from Nandadevi and Dronagiri and further ascending to the sight of Neelkanth, Mukut Parbat, Rishi Pahad, Changbang, and the ever-flowing list. The view of the horizon adorned with these jewels is beautiful enough to restore dead to life. Kuari Pass trek with the view of such skyline introduces you to the eternal beauty of Earth.Another major highlight which makes Kuari Pass Trek a wonder that it is, is the ethereal setting of the campsites. Contrary to the popular belief that trekking is all about ascending and descending rush, 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 be the Khulla campsite with Mt. Dronagiri forming the backdrop to the campsite at Chitrakantha amidst the mighty forests, everything about the campsites at Kuari Pass Trek is awe-inspiring.

What is Kuari pass trek difficulty?

Kuari Pass is classified under the category of the easy-moderate trek. Therefore this is considered as the most ideal trek for a beginner. Yet being a trek it 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 12,516 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 trek is another factor which makes it favourable for beginners.

What is the distance for the Kuari pass trek?

Starting from Dhak through Kuari pass up to Auli, the trail covers a complete distance of 21.5 km. Kuari Pass Trek is extremely flexible in the context of its itinerary and trail because it can be approached from many different tracks. If approached with Dhak as the starting point, further two trails options are available up to Khullara campsite- one through Guling and another through Akhrotghetta. On the way down from Auli, there are again two options for camping which include the beautiful site of Chitrakantha and Tali.

What is the best time to do Kuari Pass trek?

The finest time to do the Kuari Pass journey would be within the months of March, April, and May. The path passes through Oak and Rhododendron woodlands right from the basecamp. In case you are doing the Kuari Pass in March, you might indeed get snow on the higher segments of the journey. This wonderful switch from the woodland to the snow-clad land is in itself is a reason sufficient to do the Kuari Pass journey in March!If you cannot make it to the journey amid the spring, another great time to do the Kuari Pass journey is within the post-monsoon season. Once the storm clouds take off the skies, you’ll get a few of the foremost astonishing sight of the adjacent high elevation crests like Mt. Nanda Devi and Mt. Drona Giri. In case you need to be beyond any doubt approximately clean skies and backdrop commendable pictures, post-monsoon is your best bet.

How to Reach Kuari Pass

Kuari Pass Trek has a very well established connectivity with the important towns of Uttrakhand 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 48 km from Haridwar. The airport is at a distance of 208 km from Nandprayag and 268 km from Joshimath. There are flights operational from Delhi to Dehradun on a daily basis which makes the journey very flexible. If opting for 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, Lucknow to name a few.

By Bus:-Haridwar bus stand has connectivity with all the important towns across the country. Direct buses are available from the bust stands of different towns. Both government-run buses and private buses are available thus providing ample options.

Weather & Temparature

The most favorable temperature is observed in the summer months starting from April and continuing to mid-June because the temperature ranges between 19 and 29 C. The winter temperature falls to the extreme of -8C with the maximum temperature not more than 12 C. In the Tali Jungle region and the Lower Khullara region the temperature might even drop to the extent of -15 C as the winter in the region is fierce in the months from December to February. As the winter advances, heavy snowfall results in major snow deposits which further enhance the beauty of the landscapes. In the month of November, the daytime temperature is optimal and cool whereas the nights are a bit cold.During the months of spring season including September and October, the weather is pleasant and clear skies are observed. Yet, during the night, the temperature of the Kuari Pass Trek can fall to sub-zeros.

Itinerary

Day 1: Haridwar pickup and drive to Joshimath

The trek will begin from Haridwar Junction Railway Station early in the morning Altitude: 6724 ft. The distance covered is 256 km Time taken for the journey is 10-12 hours approx. The journey will be completely covered by a cab and is accompanied by the scenic beauty of mountains Water and telephone networks are available Accommodation at the guest house Your journey for the Kuari Pass trek will begin with us from Haridwar. From the appointed point at Haridwar i.e. the Haridwar Railway Station, we will follow the Badrinath Road up to Joshimath. If you are a culture and adventure enthusiast, you might want to take a brief stay at Rishikesh which lies on the way. It is an hour’s drive from Haridwar and has a plethora of water sports along with cultural heritage to offer to the visitors. A pickup from Rishikesh can be arranged as well if you wish to stay there for a while. The drive to Joshimath is 9 hours and therefore it can be arduous and tiring but the enchanting views will keep your excitement at its crest. As we ascend uphill, the great river accompanying us will become mightier and more beautiful. On the way uphill we will encounter the Panchprayag or the five sacred confluences of Ganga—Devaprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Nandaprayag, and Vishnuprayag. After reaching Joshimath around 5 pm you can either choose to stay back at guest houses that will be arranged or you might choose to have to walk around experiencing the magical relieving power of nature.

Day 2: Joshimath to Dhak to Gulling Top

The trek starts from Joshimath early in the morning, making its way to the Gulling Top via DhakAn altitude gain of 2876ft is observed from 6724ft to 9600 ft.Total distance covered is 18 kmTime taken for the journey is 4 hours approx.The trail of the trek includes steep ascent.12 km of the total is distance (Joshimath to Dhak Village) is covered by a cab while the remaining 6km (Dhak Village to Gulling Top) is covered by trekkingAttractions on the journey include the sight of the peaks of the mighty mountains of Dronagri, Hathi Parvat, Gori ParvatWater is available at the villages encountered on the way 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 will 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 will commence. While you trek uphill, you will find that the trail of gentle ups and downs forms an outline of the lying lady, which also gives the mountain the name of Sleeping Lady Mountain. 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 Gharwal 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, follow the one which curves along with the hydropower run flour mill. Another 10 minutes on the forementioned 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 her. 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 Tali top(11480ft) and descent to Tali forest basecamp(11070ft)

The trek begins at the Gulling top and ends at Tali forest Campsite. Altitude gain from 9,600 ft (2,864 m) to 11,070 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 Tali Top is a moderate ascent. As the trail becomes challenging, it is completely covered by trekking. The exotic sight of snow-capped mountains is heartwarming. The peaks that are visible on the trek include Nanda Devi, Kalanka, Chang bang, Dronagri, Hathi Parvat, Gori Parvat The flowing streams encountered on the way form the source of water. Accommodation is provided in tents The morning of Guling with bestow you with the sight of Dronagiri peak gleaming with vivid hues of the rising sun. After this, the trek for the day begins. You will leave the campsite for your trek to Tali Top. Though the trail is a steady ascent, it isn’t a steep one. 40 minutes starting from Guling, you will come across the first open ground surrounded by thick oak and rhododendron forests. If you are making your visit in late March you might find white and pink blossoms adorning your trek experience. Except for rhododendrons, walnuts and other types of conifers also comprise of the natural vegetation of the place. Follow the trek surrounded by forest and you will find yourself against the second clearing after trekking for an hour. 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 Tali top at an altitude of 11,480 ft. From Tali top there is a gradual descent of 1km to reach the Tali forest base camp, where the trek for the day will cease and the overnight stay will be done in tents under the open sky.

Day 4: Tali Forest to Kuari Pass and back via Khullara

The trek begins at Tali forest to Khullara followed by a tough climb from broken bridge to Kuari Pass.There is an initial altitude gain uphill from 11,800 ft to 12,516 ft (3,815 m)Time taken for the trek is approx 9-10 hoursTotal distance covered is 14 kmThe trek gradient falls under moderate to difficult. It involves an steep climb followed by a moderate ascent.The entire trek for the day will be covered on foot.The trail is covered with oak and rhododendrons which makes the trail enchanting.The peaks encountered on the way include - Abhi Gamin, Mana I, Ghori Parvat, Hathi Parvat, Dronagiri, Kalanka, Chang Bang, Kedarnath Peak, Kedardome, Chaukhambha, Balakun, Neel Kantha, Mukut Parvat, Kamet, Nanda Devi, Nanda GhuntiAccommodation in tentsThe trail further from Khullara is a steep ascend. 1-1.5 hour of climbing takes to you to the ridge which is a part of Lord Curzon’s rail. This point offers you a 360-degree view of the Himalaya. From here, you have to see Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Dronagiri, Nilgiri, and Hathi Ghoda peaks on one side and Trishul and parts of Nanda Devi right ahead of you. Following the trail further will lead you to the Kuari Top. The trek will be an approx. 40-minute journey with a moderate climb. Another 40 minutes trek, but downhill this time, will lead you to Kuari Pass. Here onwards retrace your path 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. Do turn at Khullara after reaching the ridge. The captivating view of the Jhandi top will make reluctant to leave.From Jhandi Top,after your rest and lunch trek back to Tali forest camp. Further, the trail to Tali is again led through dense forest cover. The forest has mixed vegetation of Oak, pines, and rhododendrons and is so dense that even sunlight does not penetrate through it. 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. The experience of camping amidst the majestic forest becomes undoubtedly a cherishable memory.

Day 5: Tali forest camp - Joshimath via Gurson bugyal (11150 ft) and Auli (9680 ft)

The trek for the day begins at Tali forest camp concluding at Joshimath while making its way through Gurson Bugyala and Auli The trek involves a continuous descend from 111480 ft to 6724ft Total distance covered in the day is 21km Time taken to cover the distance is 7 hours approx 8km of the journey covered by trekking while the remaining 13 km is a drive-by a cab. Water is available at various sites on the way Accommodation in guest houses at Joshimath

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 will make its way 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 journey downhill is smooth and hassles free but sometimes the snow deposits leave the land undulating. In the month of March, Auli attracts swarms of people from across the globe to practice skiing.To reach Joshimath, the cable car ride is taken from Auli. The cable car ride swaying from over the snow-clad valleys, forest cover, and running streams is a treat in itself.

Day 6: Drive from Joshimath To Haridwar

The drive will commence at from Joshimath reaching Haridwar The total distance for the drive is 256 km Time taken is 10 hours approx

Cabs will be arranged at Joshimath which will drop you to the Haridwar railway station from where we will part ways.The time spent at Kuari Pass trek and its exquisitely beautiful campsites will provide you with a bucket full of memories that you will always stay close to your heart.