Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
6 Days
Max.Altitude
12,516 ft.
Suitable
8 - 62 Years
Distance
20 kms
Accomodation
Tent
Pickup/ Drop
Rishikesh
Offloading
Available
Region
Uttarakhand
Know Everything About Kauri Pass Trek
The Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most popular winter treks in the Indian Himalayas, nestled in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarakhand. Standing tall at an altitude of 12,500 feet (3,800 meters), this trek offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, dense pine forests, and charming Himalayan villages. Known for its beginner-friendly trail, the Kedarkantha trek is ideal for both first-time trekkers and experienced adventurers.
The trail begins from the quaint village of Sankri, leading through scenic meadows, frozen lakes, and snow-laden forests. The highlight of the trek is the panoramic summit view of famous peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Ranglana. With its moderate difficulty level, stunning campsites, and a well-marked trail, Kedarkantha is often regarded as the best winter trek in India.
Perfect for snow trekking from December to April, the Kedarkantha trek promises an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, serenity, and natural beauty.The Kuari Pass Trek, also known as the Lord Curzon Trail, is one of the most rewarding and beginner-friendly treks in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Standing at an altitude of 12,516 ft (3,815 m), Kuari Pass offers some of the most magnificent panoramic views of the Greater Himalayan Range. From the summit, trekkers can witness the towering peaks of Nanda Devi (7,816 m), India’s second-highest mountain, along with Dronagiri, Kamet, Chaukhamba, Trishul, Hathi Ghoda, and Neelkanth Parvat.
The trek is famous for its diverse landscapes — you will walk through dense oak, deodar, and rhododendron forests, cross sparkling streams, and camp in the lush alpine meadows known as Bugyals, such as Auli and Gorson Bugyal. The trail also passes through remote Himalayan villages where you can experience the rich culture and warm hospitality of the Garhwali people.
Kuari Pass is often regarded as one of the best winter treks in Uttarakhand, especially from December to March, when the trail is blanketed in fresh snow. During this season, the forests look magical with snow-dusted trees, and the campsites transform into fairy-tale winter landscapes. In other months (April–June and September–November), the trek offers a mix of green meadows, blooming flowers, and crystal-clear mountain views.
This trek is graded easy to moderate, making it perfect for first-time trekkers, families, and beginners who want to experience the Himalayas without extreme difficulty. The average trekking distance is around 33–35 km, covered over 5–6 days, with gradual ascents that help with acclimatization.
If you’re looking for a trek that combines snow adventure, breathtaking Himalayan views, peaceful camping experiences, and cultural immersion, then the Kuari Pass Trek is a must-do in Uttarakhand.
Kauri Pass Trek itinerary
Day 1. Dehradun To Sankri
Distance: 250 km
Duration: 9–10 hours by road
Altitude: Rishikesh (372 m) / Haridwar (314 m) to Joshimath (1,875 m)
Your Kuari Pass Trek journey begins with a long but scenic drive from Rishikesh or Haridwar to Joshimath, a major hub in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The route follows the beautiful Alaknanda River valley, passing through sacred towns and confluences of the Panch Prayags – Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nandprayag.
Devprayag: where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers meet to form the holy Ganga.
Rudraprayag: confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.
Karnaprayag: meeting point of Alaknanda and Pindar rivers.
Nandprayag: confluence of Alaknanda and Nandakini rivers.
Throughout the drive, you’ll witness changing landscapes – from the bustling towns of Rishikesh and Srinagar to pine-covered hills, terraced fields, and snow peaks appearing in the distance. The road winds through mountain curves, offering breathtaking Himalayan views.
By evening, you’ll reach Joshimath (1,875 m), the winter seat of Lord Badrinath and a gateway to famous treks like Kuari Pass, Valley of Flowers, and Pangarchulla Peak. After check-in at the guesthouse/hotel, you can explore Joshimath’s local markets or visit Adishankaracharya Math if time permits.
Day 2. Sankri To Juda Ka Talab
Drive Distance: 12 km (Joshimath to Dhak)
Drive Duration: 30–40 minutes
Trek Distance: 4.5–5 km
Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
Altitude: Joshimath (1,875 m) → Dhak (2,050 m) → Gulling (2,800 m)
Your second day of the Kuari Pass Trek starts with a refreshing breakfast in Joshimath, after which you drive for about 12 km to Dhak village, the official starting point of the trek. The short but scenic drive takes you through winding mountain roads, apple orchards, and small Himalayan settlements where you can see locals engaged in farming and daily activities.
At Dhak (2,050 m), the trek begins. The initial trail ascends gradually through traditional Garhwali villages like Tugasi and Karchi, giving you a close look at the culture and lifestyle of the mountain people. Expect to see stone houses, terraced fields of wheat and barley, and smiling villagers greeting trekkers warmly.
As you move higher, the trail transitions into beautiful oak, rhododendron, and walnut forests. In spring (March–April), this stretch comes alive with red and pink rhododendron flowers, while in winter (December–March) the entire path often glistens under fresh snow, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere.
Throughout the hike, stunning Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi (7,816 m), Dronagiri (7,066 m), Hathi Parvat, and Gori Parvat appear in the distance, reminding you of the majestic landscapes awaiting further ahead. The climb is moderately steep in patches but manageable with a steady pace.
After trekking for 3–4 hours, you’ll reach Gulling Campsite (2,800 m), a serene meadow surrounded by oak and rhododendron trees. The campsite is peaceful, away from human habitation, and offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. It’s also an excellent place for stargazing at night, thanks to the clear Himalayan skies.
Day 3. Juda Ka Talab To Kedarkantha Basecamp
Trek Distance: 6–7 km
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Altitude: Gulling (2,800 m) → Khullara (3,350 m)
After an early breakfast at Gulling Campsite, you begin your trek towards Khullara, one of the most picturesque campsites on the Kuari Pass Trek. The trail today is moderately steep in sections but incredibly rewarding, as it gradually takes you above the tree line into expansive alpine meadows.
The first stretch continues through dense oak and rhododendron forests, where the air is cool, fresh, and filled with the sound of birds. During spring (March–April), the forest glows with vibrant red and pink rhododendron flowers, while in winter (December–March), the path transforms into a snowy corridor, adding a sense of adventure.
As you ascend higher, the forest begins to thin out, and the landscape opens up into wide meadows. Here, you’ll start getting uninterrupted views of some of the most iconic Himalayan peaks:
Nanda Devi (7,816 m) – the highest peak entirely within India
Dronagiri (7,066 m) – a majestic pyramid-shaped peak
Hathi Parvat & Gori Parvat – resembling an elephant and its companion
Kamet, Chaukhamba, and Neelkanth on clear days
The trail has a few short steep climbs but is well-paced with flat stretches to catch your breath. Trekkers often pause here to capture the incredible Himalayan panorama that keeps unfolding with every step.
By afternoon, you’ll reach the Khullara Campsite (3,350 m), a vast bugyal (meadow) surrounded by snow-capped peaks. This is considered one of the best campsites of the Kuari Pass Trek due to its 360° mountain views, clear skies for stargazing, and proximity to Kuari Pass. In winter, the entire meadow becomes a snowfield, making it a magical camping spot.
Day 4. Kedarkantha Basecamp To Summit & Back To Juda Ka Talab
Trek Distance: 10–12 km (round trip)
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Altitude: Khullara (3,350 m) → Kuari Pass (3,658 m) → back to Khullara
Your most awaited day begins early at Khullara Campsite. After a light breakfast, you set out on the trail that leads to the legendary Kuari Pass (The Doorway). The route today is longer and more challenging than the previous days, but it offers unparalleled views of the Greater Himalayas, making it the highlight of the trek.
Trail Experience
The path starts with a gradual ascent through undulating meadows. Soon, the climb becomes steeper as you approach the ridge. Along the way, you’ll pass through snow patches (in winter) or grassy bugyals (in summer), making the terrain both scenic and adventurous.
From here, you begin traversing along mountain ridges, which open up wide panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas. The closer you get to Kuari Pass, the grander the views become.
Views from Kuari Pass
By midday, you’ll stand at the Kuari Pass (3,658 m), which literally translates to the “doorway.” This high-altitude mountain pass acts as a natural viewing gallery of the Indian Himalayas, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
From the top, you get 360° views of some of the tallest and most iconic Himalayan peaks, including:
Nanda Devi (7,816 m) – India’s second-highest peak
Dronagiri (7,066 m)
Trishul (7,120 m)
Chaukhamba (7,138 m)
Kamet (7,756 m)
Hathi Parvat, Ghori Parvat, and Neelkanth
On clear days, you can even spot distant peaks of the Kumaon Himalayas. The sight of these majestic mountains towering above the clouds is a memory trekkers carry for life.
Return to Khullara Campsite
After spending quality time at the pass—taking photos, soaking in the views, and having a packed lunch—you begin your descent back to Khullara Campsite. The return is easier and quicker, but you’ll still need to be cautious on steep or snowy sections.
By evening, you’ll be back at Khullara, where hot tea and snacks await. As night falls, the clear Himalayan skies offer incredible stargazing opportunities—an unforgettable end to the summit day.
Day 5. Juda Ka Talab To Sankri To Dehradun
Trek Distance: 12–14 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours (trek) + 1 hour drive to Joshimath
Altitude: Khullara (3,350 m) → Gulling (2,850 m) → Dhak Village (1,900 m) → Joshimath (1,875 m)
After an early breakfast at the Khullara campsite (3,350 m), you begin your descent towards Joshimath. The trail retraces your earlier path but feels completely different as you soak in the beauty of the forests and meadows one last time. The first stretch takes you through dense oak and rhododendron trees, where the cool mountain breeze and chirping of birds create a refreshing atmosphere. In spring, the rhododendrons bloom in vibrant red and pink hues, while in winter the entire trail is often covered in soft snow, making it a fairy-tale walk.
By mid-morning, you reach Gulling (2,850 m), a quaint Himalayan village that offers glimpses of traditional mountain life. The wooden houses, terraced fields, and smiling faces of the locals make this halt a delightful cultural experience. From here, the trail continues downhill, gradually opening into farmlands and small settlements before you finally reach Dhak Village (1,900 m), which marks the end point of your trek.
At Dhak, vehicles will be waiting to drive you back to Joshimath (1,875 m). The one-hour journey offers scenic views of the Alaknanda River valley and the surrounding Himalayan slopes. Once in Joshimath, you check into a comfortable guesthouse or hotel where a warm bed and hot meal await you. After days of camping in the wilderness, the return to cozy accommodation feels like a welcome luxury. In the evening, you may explore Joshimath’s local markets, visit the Narsingh Temple or Shankaracharya Math, or simply relax and reflect on your Kuari Pass adventure.
Meals include breakfast at Khullara, a packed lunch during the trek, and dinner in Joshimath. Overnight stay is arranged in a guesthouse or hotel.
This day beautifully blends the serenity of Himalayan forests with the joy of cultural encounters in mountain villages, before concluding your trek at Joshimath, the gateway to many Garhwal Himalayan expeditions.
Day 5. Juda Ka Talab To Sankri To Dehradun
Distance: 250 km
Duration: 9–10 hours by road
Altitude: Joshimath (1,875 m) To Rishikesh (372 m) / Haridwar (314 m)
The final day of your Kuari Pass Trek begins with an early breakfast in Joshimath. After days of trekking in the wilderness, the journey back to the plains brings mixed emotions — a sense of accomplishment, peace, and nostalgia for the trails left behind. From Joshimath (1,875 m), you board your vehicle for the long drive back to Rishikesh or Haridwar, covering approximately 250–270 km over 9–10 hours.
The road trip takes you along the banks of the mighty Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, offering breathtaking views of the deep valleys and towering mountains. Along the way, you pass through several famous pilgrimage towns of Uttarakhand such as Devprayag, Srinagar, and Rudraprayag. Devprayag, in particular, is a spiritual highlight, where the sacred Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers meet to form the holy River Ganga.
As the journey continues, you’ll notice the gradual transition from crisp mountain air to the warmer climate of the foothills. The winding roads slowly give way to the bustling towns and serene Ganga ghats of Rishikesh and Haridwar. By evening, you reach your destination, where the trip officially comes to an end. Many trekkers choose to stay overnight in Rishikesh to witness the famous Ganga Aarti, relax in yoga cafés, or explore the vibrant atmosphere of this spiritual hub.
With hearts full of memories — snow-clad peaks, alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and the thrill of summiting Kuari Pass — you bid farewell to the Himalayas. This marks the conclusion of your Kuari Pass adventure, but the essence of the trek stays with you forever.
Meals include breakfast in Joshimath and lunch en route (self-arranged or at local dhabas). Evening arrival in Rishikesh/Haridwar marks the official end of the trek.
Kauri Pass Trek Package Cost Terms
What's Included
1. Transportation
Shared transportation from Rishikesh/Haridwar to Joshimath (trek base) and return
Vehicles used: Tempo Traveller, Sumo, or Bolero (depending on group size)
Pickup and drop from designated points (ISBT Rishikesh/Haridwar Railway Station)
Note: Budget packages may not include transport
2. Accommodation
Stay in guesthouses/hotels at Joshimath (on arrival & return days as per itinerary)
Camping during trek in alpine tents at designated campsites
Triple sharing tents with sleeping bags, foam mats, and liners provided
Toilet tents (dry pit type) and separate kitchen/dining tents at campsites
3. Meals
All vegetarian meals included during trek (from Day 1 dinner to last day breakfast)
Includes morning tea/coffee, hot lunch/dinner, and evening snacks
Simple, hygienic, and nutritious meals cooked by trek staff
Egg options may be available depending on the package
4. Trekking Staff
Experienced and certified trek leader & local mountain guide
Cook, helpers, and support staff at all camps
Porters/mules for carrying common camping equipment and supplies
5. Trekking Equipment
Waterproof alpine tents, dining tents, and toilet tents
Sub-zero sleeping bags with liners and foam mattresses
Group gear, utensils, and kitchen equipment for meals
Microspikes and gaiters for snow season (if required)
6. Additional Inclusions
Trekking permits, forest entry fees, and required taxes
Safety equipment – first aid kit, oximeter, and stretcher
Oxygen cylinder for emergencies (in select packages)
Bonfire (where permitted by forest regulations)
What's Excluded
Travel to and from Rishikesh/Haridwar
Meals during transit (before trek start & after trek end)
Extra food, bottled water, and personal snacks
Trekking gear like jackets, shoes, sticks, etc.
Personal medicines and expenses (laundry, charging, hot water)
Porter for personal luggage
Travel insurance and GST
Evacuation or medical expenses in case of emergency
Any cost due to weather, roadblock, or natural calamity
Anything not mentioned under inclusions
Kauri Pass Trek Packages Costs
Sankri To Sankri
₹ 5,500/- PP
₹ 3,999/-PP
- 4 Nights Accomodation
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Sbacks
- Forest Permit & Fees
- Trek Guide
- Trekking Central Equipments
- Safty & First Aid
Dehradun To Dehradun
₹ 12,500/- PP
₹ 9,999/-PP
- Dehradun To Dehradun Transport
- 4 Nights Accomodation
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Sbacks
- Forest Permit & Fees
- Trek Guide
- Trekking Central Equipments
- Safty & First Aid
Delhi To Delhi
₹ 8,500/- PP
₹ 6,999/-PP
- Delhi To Delhi
- 4 Nights Accomodation
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Sbacks
- Forest Permit & Fees
- Trek Guide
- Trekking Central Equipments
- Safty & First Aid
Kauri Pass Trek Terms And Conditions
Advance Booking & Payment
Advance Payment: 20% of the trek cost is to be paid at the time of booking to confirm your slot.
Remaining Payment: The balance 80% of the trek cost must be paid at the time of pickup/start of the trek.
Refund & Cancellation Policy
45 days or more before the trek start date: 90% of the trek cost will be refunded.
30 to 44 days before the trek start date: 50% of the trek cost will be refunded.
21 to 29 days before the trek start date: 25% of the trek cost will be refunded.
15 to 20 days before the trek start date: No refund will be provided.
Less than 15 days before the trek start date: No refund will be provided.
Kauri Pass Trek k Departures Dates
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How To Reach Kauri Pass Trek
Pickup Place
Tapovan, Rishikesh
Pickup Time
06:30 AM - 07:30 AM
Drop Place
Tapovan, Rishikesh
Drop Time
07:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Dehradun is well-connected to major cities of India by air, train, and road.
By Air:
- The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED), located 25 km from the city center.
- Direct flights operate from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and other metro cities.
By Train:
- Dehradun Railway Station connects to cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Lucknow, and Varanasi.
- Popular trains include Dehradun Express, Nanda Devi Express, and Shatabdi Express (from Delhi).
By Road:
- Dehradun is accessible by buses and taxis from Delhi (250 km / 6–7 hours).
- Regular Volvo and state transport buses run from ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Delhi to Dehradun.
Kauri Pass Trek Fitness
The Kauri Pass trek is graded moderate (max altitude ~12,516 ft). The trek involves long walking hours, steep ascents, and high-altitude conditions, so good physical fitness is required.
Stamina
You should be able to jog/walk 5 km in 35–40 minutes comfortably.
Practice brisk walking, jogging, or cycling 4–5 times a week.
Strength
Build leg strength with squats, lunges, and stair climbing.
Core and upper body workouts (planks, push-ups) help carry a backpack on steep climbs.
Cardio Endurance
Do cardio exercises like running, swimming, or cycling for 30–40 minutes daily.
Helps in increasing lung capacity for thin mountain air.
Flexibility & Balance
Daily stretching and yoga to avoid muscle stiffness.
Balance training for rocky, uneven trails.
Acclimatization & Breathing
Practice deep breathing (pranayama) to improve oxygen intake.
Try short treks/hikes before Kauri Pass to prepare your body for altitude.
Kauri Pass Trek Packing List
Thermals (top & bottom)
2–3 quick-dry T-shirts (full sleeves preferred)
2 fleece jackets / woollen sweaters
1 down jacket (for winter)
Waterproof & windproof jacket with hood
2 trekking pants (quick-dry)
1 warm/fleece pant (for nights)
Woollen cap / beanie
Sun cap (for daytime)
Neck gaiter / balaclava
Inner gloves (wool/fleece)
Outer waterproof gloves
3–4 pairs trekking socks (wool + synthetic)
1 pair thick wool socks (for night)
Trekking shoes (ankle-high, waterproof, good grip, sturdy sole)
3–4 pairs trekking socks (wool + synthetic blend)
1 pair thick woollen socks (for sleeping at night)
Camp shoes / slippers (lightweight, for evenings at campsite)
50–60 L trekking backpack (with rain cover)
15–20 L daypack (optional for summit day)
Trekking pole
Rain cover for backpack
Headlamp with extra batteries
Water bottles (2 × 1L) or hydration bladder (2L)
UV-protection sunglasses / snow goggles
Sun cap / woollen cap
Buff / neck gaiter / balaclava
Inner fleece gloves + outer waterproof gloves
Power bank
Camera / GoPro (optional)
Toothbrush & small toothpaste
Biodegradable soap / facewash
Hand sanitizer
Wet wipes & tissues
Toilet roll
Lip balm (essential, cold weather dries lips)
Sunscreen (SPF 40+ recommended)
Moisturizer / cold cream
Small towel / microfiber towel
Sanitary napkins / tampons / menstrual cup (for women trekkers)
Deodorant (travel size)
Nail cutter & small comb
Personal prescribed medicines
Diamox (for altitude – doctor’s advice needed)
Crocin / Dolo 650 (fever, mild pain)
Combiflam / Brufen (body ache)
Avomine (motion sickness)
Digene (acidity)
ORS / Electral (dehydration)
Band-aids & crepe bandage
Antiseptic cream / Betadine
Pain relief spray
Government photo ID (Aadhar / Passport / Driving License / Voter ID)
Photocopies of ID (2–3 copies)
Passport-size photographs (2–3, for permits)
Medical certificate (fitness & COVID vaccination if required)
Trek booking confirmation / travel tickets
Emergency contact details
Kauri Pass Trek FAQ's
What is the maximum altitude of the Kauri Pass trek?
The Kauri Pass trek reaches a maximum altitude of 12,516 ft (3,815 m). At this height, you get breathtaking views of Himalayan giants like Nanda Devi, Kamet, Trishul, and Dronagiri. Since the air is thinner here, trekkers should pace themselves and stay hydrated to avoid altitude-related issues.
How difficult is the Kauri Pass trek?
The trek is graded as moderate. It doesn’t require technical climbing, but it does involve steep ascents, long walking hours (5–7 hours a day), and trekking on snow in winter. Beginners can attempt it with proper fitness preparation, making it one of the best starter Himalayan treks
What is the best time to do the Kauri Pass trek?
The trek is graded as moderate. It doesn’t require technical climbing, but it does involve steep ascents, long walking hours (5–7 hours a day), and trekking on snow in winter. Beginners can attempt it with proper fitness preparation, making it one of the best starter Himalayan treks
Can beginners do the Kauri Pass trek?
Yes, first-time trekkers can successfully complete this trek. However, a good level of fitness is required as the trail includes ascents, descents, and some snow walking. A routine of jogging, stair climbing, and endurance exercises 6–8 weeks before the trek is highly recommended.
How many days are required for the Kauri Pass trek?
The trek usually takes 5–6 days, including travel. A common itinerary looks like this:
Day 1: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Joshimath
Day 2: Joshimath to Gulling
Day 3: Gulling to Tali Camp
Day 4: Tali to Kauri Pass and back to Tali
Day 5: Return trek and drive back to Joshimath
Day 6: Joshimath to Rishikesh/Haridwar
What kind of accommodation is available on the trek?
Accommodation is basic yet comfortable:
Joshimath: Stay in a guest house or homestay on arrival.
During the trek: Tented accommodation in alpine tents, usually on twin or triple sharing. Campsites have toilet tents, kitchen tents, and dining tents. Sleeping bags and mats are provided.
Are mobile networks available on the Kauri Pass trek?
Yes, but only up to a point. Joshimath and Tugasi village have decent mobile network coverage (mainly Jio and BSNL). After you move higher towards Gulling and Tali, network connectivity fades, giving you a true off-grid trekking experience.
Do I need a permit for Kauri Pass trek?
Yes, trekkers require forest entry permits and local administration permissions to access the trekking route. These are usually included in the trek package, so you don’t have to arrange them separately. Always carry a government ID for verification.
What is the total distance of the Kauri Pass trek?
The trek covers around 33–36 km in total, depending on the route chosen by your trek operator. On average, you will be walking 5–10 km per day, with gradual ascents through forests, meadows, and mountain ridges.
What are the main highlights of the Kauri Pass trek?
Spectacular mountain views of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri, Hathi Parbat, and Chaukhamba.
Enchanting forests of oak, deodar, and rhododendron.
Beautiful campsites at Gulling and Tali.
Snow trekking (seasonal) in winter months.
Rich cultural experience of Garhwal villages like Tugasi and Joshimath.
