Borasu pass

Per Person /

Overview

Borasu Pass Trek – A Journey Through the Ancient Trade Route

The Borasu Pass Trek is a hidden gem nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. Once an ancient trade route connecting the Har Ki Dun valley in Uttarakhand to the Kinnaur valley in Himachal Pradesh, this high-altitude trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and raw adventure. The trail also lies close to the Indo-Tibetan border, adding to its historical significance.

Trek Overview

  • Duration: 8 Days

  • Total Distance: Approximately 60–70 km

  • Altitude: Highest point at 5,450 meters

  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult (Ideal for experienced trekkers)

Trek Route

The journey begins from Sankri, a quaint village about 200 km from Dehradun. From here, the trail winds through dense forests, vibrant meadows, and glacial streams. Trekkers pass through scenic locations like Chilurgad, Har Ki Dun, and then ascend towards the mighty Borasu Pass, finally descending into the Rupin River Valley and ending at Sangla in Himachal Pradesh.

Why Choose Borasu Pass Trek?

  • Two Treks in One: Combine the Har Ki Dun trek with the Borasu Pass trek for a richer and more fulfilling experience.

  • Breathtaking Mountain Views: Witness majestic peaks like Swargarohini, Kalanag (Black Peak), Bandarpoonch, and more.

  • Diverse Landscapes: Walk through flower-filled meadows, steep ridges, snowy slopes, and ancient glacier beds.

  • Rich Cultural Touch: Interact with local villagers known for their warm hospitality and stories of ancient times.

  • Camping Experience: Sleep under the stars amidst serene Himalayan wilderness and untouched nature.

Historical & Cultural Significance

Long before roads existed, locals from villages like Gangar, Osla, Pawani, and Lamjunga used this trail to travel to Chitkul, often covering the journey in just 2–3 days. The route was vital for grazing livestock and trading goods. In 1968, the trail was officially recognized as a trekking route, thanks to the efforts of the local communities.

Trek in the Lap of Govind Wildlife Sanctuary

This trek lies within the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna. The untouched charm of the Har Ki Dun valley and the thrill of crossing Borasu Pass make it one of the most enthralling treks in the Indian Himalayas.


Who Should Do This Trek?

This trek is best suited for experienced adventurers looking for a remote, high-altitude challenge. The scenic rewards and sense of achievement make every step worth the effort.

Day 1: Pickup from Dehradun Railway Station and Drive to Sankri (Base Camp)

Total Distance: 210 km | Duration: 8–9 hours
Mode of Journey: By taxi
Altitude: 1,920 meters
Night Stay: Swargarohini Hotel (twin sharing)

Start your journey early in the morning from Dehradun Railway Station (between 6:00–7:00 AM). Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, offers scenic beauty along Rajpur Road—your first glimpse of the adventure ahead.

You’ll reach Mussoorie, the “Queen of Hills,” within an hour. Stop at Kempty Falls for breakfast and a short break (around 1 hour).

As you continue, the majestic peaks begin to appear, and the Yamuna River will greet you along the way—pause for a 20-minute break if you’d like to soak in the surroundings.

Drive through the charming towns of Nainbagh, Damta, Naugaon, and reach Purola by 1:30 PM for lunch. Post-lunch, proceed to Sankri via the beautiful pine forests of Jarmola, where you’ll see the backside of Kedarkantha.

After crossing Mori and a checkpoint (where ID verification is done), you’ll soon arrive at Sankri—your gateway to the trek. Check in at Swargarohini Hotel, freshen up, enjoy evening snacks with mountain views, and unwind before dinner.


Day 2: Drive to Taluka and Trek to Cheludgad Camp

Total Distance: 23 km (11 km drive + 12 km trek) | Duration: 4–5 hours
Altitude: 2,600 meters
Night Stay: Campsite (twin sharing)

After breakfast, drive to Taluka—a small scenic village with a few shops and traditional houses.

Begin your trek through dense forests and cross a stream via bridge. The trail winds alongside the Supin River. You’ll pass the quaint village of Dhatmir, followed by lush meadows and varying terrains, including muddy patches and steep sections.

After hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Cheludgad Camp. Set up your tents, enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere, and spend your first night under the stars.


Day 3: Trek from Cheludgad to Har Ki Dun Camp

Distance: 13 km | Duration: 6–7 hours
Altitude: 3,645 meters
Night Stay: Campsite (twin sharing)

Wake up to a peaceful mountain morning and begin your trek towards the famed Har Ki Dun. Within 1.5 km, cross the Supin River with a clear view of Osla Village, the last inhabited village in this area.

A steep climb of around 800 meters leads to a relatively easy and beautiful trail. Take a break at Kalkati Dhaar and walk through expansive flat grasslands, crossing bridges and gentle streams.

Har Ki Dun offers mesmerizing views, unique flora and fauna, and a tranquil camping spot by the river. The Supin River remains a companion till you reach camp. Enjoy your evening and prepare for the days ahead.


Day 4: Trek to Ratta Dho (Lal Patthar)

Distance: 8 km | Duration: 4–5 hours
Altitude: 4,105 meters
Night Stay: Campsite (twin sharing)

Today’s trail follows the Har Ki Dun River on your right. A gentle climb leads to vast meadows and a narrow path, eventually revealing Manida Lake and blooming wildflowers.

After a gradual ascent, reach Ratta Dho (also known as Lal Patthar), a windy field with yellow grass and alpine flowers situated just before Borasu Glacier.

Set up camp and rest early as higher altitudes await you tomorrow.


Day 5: Trek to Upper Lamjunga Camp

Distance: 9 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
Altitude: 4,899 meters
Night Stay: Campsite (twin sharing)

Begin your trek on a steep and scenic path alongside the river. Cross grassy meadows and rocky sections, moving through alpine terrain shaped by glacial streams.

After navigating ridges and crossing a rocky field, ascend towards the final meadow used by shepherds. The view of Borasu Peak and Glacier is breathtaking.

Climb steeply to reach Upper Lamjunga Camp, surrounded by snow-clad mountains. This campsite often remains snow-covered even in late June.

Rest and prepare for the summit tomorrow.


Day 6: Rest and Acclimatization Day at Upper Lamjunga Camp

Enjoy a relaxed morning with tea and breakfast. Use the day to rest, practice breathing or meditation, and explore the area lightly to prepare your body for the high-altitude challenge ahead.

Discuss the route and summit strategy with your guide.


Day 7: Summit Borasu Pass (5,450 m) and Descend to Bonga Camp

Distance: 13 km | Duration: 7–8 hours
Altitude: 5,450 meters (Borasu Pass)
Night Stay: Campsite (twin sharing)

Start early. The path to Borasu Pass involves navigating big rocks and ridges. Use ice axes and ropes for steep sections and thick snow.

After a strenuous climb, reach the summit and enjoy panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and glaciers.

The descent is steep and challenging. With the help of guides and ropes, cross frozen waterfalls and continue downward to reach Bonga Camp—a meadow surrounded by clear streams and alpine views.

Rest and enjoy your last night in the wilderness.


Day 8: Trek from Bonga Camp to Chitkul Village (Last Village of the Trek)

Distance: 11 km | Duration: 6–7 hours
Altitude: 3,450 meters

After breakfast, begin your final trek. The trail is rocky and passes through clear streams and meadows filled with wild herbs and flowers.

You’ll encounter shepherd settlements and forests before finally reaching Chitkul—the last village in the region, rich in beauty and local culture.

Celebrate your successful completion of the trek and capture memories of the incredible journey through the Himalayas.

Necessary Items to Carry on a Trek

1. Basic Trekking Gear

ItemQuantity
Trekking Backpack (with rain cover)50–60L with padded straps
Daypack (with rain cover)20–30L (if off-loading backpack)
Trekking Poles / Walking Stick1
Water Bottle2 thermos flasks (1L each)
SnacksEnergy bars, dry fruits, electrolyte

2. Clothing Guide (Based on Season)

ItemSummerWinter
Quick-dry collared T-shirt2–32–3 (Full sleeves)
Fleece T-shirt (Full sleeves)22–3
Fleece Jacket22
Down Jacket1 (available on rent)1 (available on rent)
Thermal Inner (Top & Bottom)1 pair2 pairs
Quick-dry Trek Pants2–3 pairs2–3 pairs
Waterproof Gloves1 pair1 pair
Woollen Gloves1 pair1 pair
Poncho / Rain Jacket & Pants11
Lightweight Quick-dry Towel11

3. Head Gear

ItemQuantity
Head Torch1
Sun Cap1
Woollen Cap1
Balaclava1
Buff / Neck Gaiter1
Sunglasses1

4. Footwear

ItemQuantity
Trekking Shoes (High ankle)1 pair
Flip-flops1 pair
Cotton Socks2–3 pairs
Woollen Socks2 pairs
Gaiters1 pair
Microspikes1 pair

5. Personal Care Essentials

ItemQuantity
Toothpaste1
Toilet Paper1 roll
Hand Sanitizer1
Lip Balm1
Light Towel1
Moisturizer1
Sunscreen (SPF 30–40)1

6. Personal Medical Kit

 

Item

Quantity

Pain Reliever

1 strip

Motion Sickness Medicine

1 strip

Fever/Headache Medicine

1 strip

Allergy Medicine

1 strip

Diarrhoea Medicine

1 strip

Cream/Spray for Sprains

1

Antiseptic Cream

1

ORS

1–2 packets

Band-aids

5–6

Cotton

1 small roll

Gauze

2 pieces

Scissors

1

Tweezers

1

Elastic Bandage

1

Diamox 125/250 mg

1 strip

Diamox 500 mg

4–5 pills

Nifedipine 20 mg

1 strip

Dexamethasone (4 mg)

1 strip