Kuari Pass Trek — Premium

Overview

The trek begins in the Chamoli district at the basecamp of Dhak near Joshimath, within the Nanda Devi National Park, proceeding through remote villages along the Curzon trail — a great way to familiarise yourself with local culture and habits. The experience starts at Kashmiri Gate (New Delhi), where a bus takes you to Dhak via Rishikesh and Joshimath. From Joshimath we proceed to Dhak, then to Tapoban (the base camp, ~7 km away), and on to Karchhi village where the Kuari Pass trek actually starts. It is a 6-day trek including travel from Rishikesh.

Highlights & attractions

The Kuari Pass Trek, explored and popularised by Lord Curzon, is an easy-to-moderate trek that begins at Joshimath and culminates at the Kuari Pass in the Garhwal Himalayas, taking you to an altitude of 4,264 metres. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned trekker, it delivers gorgeous, up-close views of some of India's most famous ranges — Nanda Devi (25,673 ft) and Dronagiri (23,182 ft) — plus Kamet, Trishul and Chaukamba. In winter the snow carpets the oak forests into a wonderland; in other seasons you walk through 'Bugyals', the beautiful Himalayan meadows. You also get to visit Auli, renowned for its unparalleled skiing slopes.

Safety & precautions

The whole route through Kuari Pass is well marked with well-trodden routes; ascents are gradual and campsites well placed, with multiple exit points for those who don't wish to complete the trek. The section from Tali Campsite to Gorson Bugyal is the one to watch — narrow trails with undulations, harder in snow — best traversed slowly, in single file, with good footing. The maximum altitude is 12,500 ft with a climb of over 6,300 ft in the first three days, so acclimatise, climb at a steady pace, hydrate regularly and rest at campsites.

Terrain & tags

• Premium
• High Altitude Mountains
• Cloud Forest
• Coniferous Forest
• Adventure Tour