Kuari pass Trek

Per Person / 7999

Trek Name: Winter Kuari Pass Trek
Days: 6
Adventure Type: Trekking
Base Camp: Pipalkoti
Season: Spring | Winter
Month: January | February | March | April | November | December
Country: India
Altitude: 12,750 Ft.
Grade: Moderate
Rail Head: Haridwar/Rishikesh (Nearest rail head)
Stay: Camping (Twin sharing) & Hotel/Guesthouse (Separate for Male & Female)
Food: Meals on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse (Veg & Eggs)
Location: Uttarakhand
Distance: 27 Km
Trail Type: Circular trail | Camping in various locations, starting and ending at the same point.
Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, 21 km from Rishikesh

Highlights:

  • +5% GST applicable.

  • Meeting Point: Opposite Shiv Vilas Hotel, Tapovan, Rishikesh (If transportation opted).

  • Reporting Time: 6:00 am

  • Drop Time: 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm (Subject to weather & road conditions).

  • Travel Advisory: Arrive in Rishikesh a day before to avoid delays.

Why is Winter Kuari Pass a Must-Do Trek?

Trek Through Pristine Snowfields:

Experience the breathtaking beauty of vast snow-covered meadows, creating a winter paradise.

The Curzon Trail:

Follow the historic route pioneered by Lord Curzon, adding a touch of legacy and adventure.

360° Himalayan Views:

Witness stunning panoramic views of peaks like Kamet, Chaukhambha, Dronagiri, Changabang, Kunti Bhandar, and Neelkanth.

Nanda Devi Sanctuary:

Trek through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to rich biodiversity and wilderness.

Charming Himalayan Villages:

Pass through remote Garhwal villages like Tugasi and Upper Tugasi, immersing in local culture and traditions.

Tali Lake:

A high-altitude lake that remains frozen in winter, reflecting the majestic Nanda Devi and Dronagiri peaks.

Stargazing at Guling Campsite:

Enjoy crystal-clear skies for some of the best stargazing experiences in the Himalayas.

Auli’s Beauty:

Proximity to Auli, known for its stunning views and ski slopes, is an added bonus for trekkers.

Kuari Pass Trek – Winter Adventure in the Himalayas

If you’re seeking an unforgettable winter adventure, the Kuari Pass Trek is an ideal choice. One of the best winter treks in India, it takes you through snow-covered forests and stunning mountain landscapes, offering close-up views of the mighty Nanda Devi peak.

The trek, often called “Curzon’s Trail,” starts from Pipalkoti and passes through Gulling Top, Tali Forest Camp, and Kuari Pass. At 12,750 ft, it offers mesmerizing views of peaks like Gauri Parbat, Nanda Ghunti, Hathi Parbat, Neelkanth, Kamet, and Lampak I & II. The journey through dense forests and meadows, especially in winter, transforms into a white wonderland with crisp, fresh air.

This moderately challenging trek is perfect for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Over 6-7 days, you’ll explore traditional villages, interact with locals, and escape the city’s hustle. The landscape of snow-laden golden oaks and tall pine trees creates a surreal trekking experience.

Major Attractions of the Kuari Pass Trek

Tugasi Village:

The trek begins from Tugasi, winding through ancient oak forests with initial glimpses of snow-covered paths and towering mountains.

Talli Forest:

A mystical stretch with pine and oak trees covered in snow. Sunlight filtering through the canopy creates magical patterns on the ground.

Kuari Pass Summit:

A breathtaking vantage point offering unparalleled views of the Himalayan giants.

Gorson Bugyal:

An alpine meadow covered in a pristine blanket of snow, providing the best views of Nanda Devi peak.

Witness the Mighty Nanda Devi Peak

The highlight of the Kuari Pass Trek is the chance to see Nanda Devi, Uttarakhand’s highest peak, along with Chaukhamba, Hathi Parbat, and many more.

Winter Kuari Pass – Lord Curzon’s Trail

Named after Lord Curzon, the trek’s popularity grew when the Viceroy of India explored this route between 1899-1905. His endorsement linked Kuari Pass to British exploration history, adding a legacy of adventure.

Why is Kuari Pass Considered the Best Winter Trek in India?

Winter trekking offers a unique experience with fewer crowds, untouched snow trails, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Moderate in difficulty, it’s accessible yet thrilling, making it an unmissable adventure. Whether it’s walking on fresh snow, camping under starry skies, or soaking in views of Himalayan peaks, the Kuari Pass Trek remains a top choice for winter trekking in India.

 

Day-1: Rishikesh to Pipalkoti

  • Altitude: 1,350m/4,400ft.
  • Drive Distance: 220 km | 9-10 hours.

Day-2: Pipalkoti – Gulling Top

  • Altitude:
    • Tugasi village: 2450m/ 8000 ft.
    • Gulling Top: 2,850 m/ 9,400 ft.
  • Drive Distance (Pipalkoti-Tugasi): 50 km | 2-3 hrs.
  • Trek Distance: 3km | 2-3 hrs.

Day-3: Gulling Top to Tali Forest Camp

  • Altitude: 3,350m (11,100ft).
  • Trek Distance:5 km | 4-5 hours.

Day-4: Tali forest camp to Kuari pass and back via Khullara top

  • Altitude:
    • Khulara Top: 3,650m (12,000 ft).
    • Kuari Pass: 3,900m (12,750 ft).
  • Trek Distance: 10-11 km | 8-9 hours.

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

  • Altitude:
    • Tali Lake: 3,550m (11,500ft).
    • Gursaon Bugyal:3,400m (11,150ft)
    • Auli: 2900m (9500ft)
  • Trek Distance: 9 km | 6-7 hours.
  • Drive Distance: 45 km | 1 hr 30 min.
Note:
  • If weather and snow conditions allow, we will return via Gorson Bugyal or Auli; otherwise, we will retrace our route through Tugasi.

Day-6: Pipalkoti To Rishikesh

  • Drive Distance: 220 km | approx. 9 hours

Inclusion

1. Accommodation (as per the itinerary):

  • Guest house in Pipalkoti(Day 1 and Day 5 as per the itinerary).
  • Camping while on trek (twin sharing).

2. Meals (Veg + Egg):

  • All meals (including tea, soup, snacks, etc.) from Day 1 Dinner to Day 5 Dinner.

3. Support:

  • 1 Versatile base camp manager handles communication and deploys extra manpower in emergencies.
  • 1 Mountaineering & First aid qualified professional trek Leader.
  • 1 Experienced high-altitude chef.
  • Local experienced guides (Number of guides depending on the group size).
  • Enough support staff.

4. Trek equipment:

  • Sleeping bag, Sleeping liners (if required), mattresses, and Utensils.
  • 3 men all season trekker tent (twin sharing), Kitchen & Dining tent, Toilet tent.
  • Camping stool, Walkie talkie.
  • Ropes, Helmet, Ice axe, Harness, Gaiters & microspikes (if required).

5. First aid:

  • Medical kit, Stretcher, Oxygen cylinder, Blood pressure monitor, Oximeter, Stethoscope.

6. Mules/porters to carry the central luggage.
7. Cloakroom facility available at the base camp for additional luggage.
8. All necessary permits and entry fees, up to the amount charged for Indians.
9. Trek Completion Certificate.

 

Exclusion

  1. Insurance (Mandatory).
  2. Food during the transit.
  3. Any kind of personal expenses.
  4. Mule or porter to carry personal luggage.
  5. Emergency evacuation, hospitalization charge, etc.
  6. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusion.

 

Mandatory Documents for Bali Pass Trek

Trekkers must carry the following documents:

✅ Original and photocopy of a government-issued photo ID (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voter ID, etc.)
✅ Passport and Visa (for foreign nationals)
✅ Medical Certificate (Part 1 to be filled by a doctor, Part 2 by the trekker)
✅ Declaration Certificate

Essential Trekking Gear

Many trekkers make the mistake of carrying unnecessary items, making their backpacks too heavy. Packing smartly is key. Here’s what you must carry:

Backpack & Footwear

🎒 Backpack (50–60 liters) – A sturdy backpack with good support (Rain cover recommended)
🥾 Trekking Shoes – Proper trekking shoes with ankle support (avoid sports shoes)

Clothing

👖 Trek Pants (2-3 pairs) – Avoid jeans; carry more for longer treks
🧥 Jackets (2) – Essential for cold weather
🧣 Warm Layers – Woolen or fleece layers (2-3 for winter, fewer for summer)
🔥 Thermals – Needed for cold nights
👕 Quick-dry T-Shirts – Preferably full sleeves to protect against sunburn
🌧 Poncho/Raincoat – Essential for rainy days

Accessories

🚶 Trekking Pole – For balance and support
💦 Water Bottles (2) – Stay hydrated
🧢 Cap/Balaclava – Protect against the cold
🕶 Sunglasses – To prevent snow blindness
👞 Slippers – Comfortable for campsite use
🧤 Gloves – Woolen and waterproof
🧦 Socks (Woolen & Regular) – Keep feet warm and dry
🧴 Sunscreen – Essential at high altitudes
🔦 Torch/Headlight – With extra batteries

Personal Items

🧼 Toiletries – Toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, sanitizer, etc.
🩺 Personal Medical Kit (Take medicines only as prescribed by a doctor)

  • Altitude sickness tablets
  • Acidity and stomach relief medicine
  • Fever and headache relief
  • Pain relievers
  • Motion sickness medicine
  • Allergy medicine
  • Diarrhea medicine
  • Antiseptic cream
  • ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts)
  • Band-aids, cotton, stretchable bandage, and gauze

Trekking Safety Guidelines

✅ Carry a First Aid Kit – Be prepared for minor injuries
✅ Follow Safety Protocols – Stick to designated trails & avoid risky paths
✅ Stay Connected – Carry a mobile phone, satellite phone, or walkie-talkie
✅ Know Emergency Services – Be aware of the nearest hospital, police, and rescue teams
✅ Pack the Right Gear – Proper clothing & equipment ensure safety
✅ Respect Nature – Follow Leave No Trace principles: avoid littering, protect vegetation, and respect wildlife
✅ Stay Calm in Emergencies – Assess the situation and act wisely

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