Best Winter Trek
Kuari Pass Trek
November to March
₹7499/- per person
“Not all those who wander are lost.”
Kuari Pass Trek
via Dhak
Best Winter Trek – Kuari Pass Trek
If you’re looking for one of the best winter treks in India, the Kuari Pass Trek stands tall among them. Known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and snow-laden trails, this trek is a perfect introduction to high-altitude hiking. The Kuari Pass, also known as the “Lord Curzon Trail,” offers a perfect blend of scenic landscapes, ancient forests, and grand mountain panoramas that will leave every trekker spellbound.
Kuari Pass Trek Overview
Located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, the Kuari Pass Trek lies at an altitude of around 12,516 feet. The trek passes through charming villages, oak and rhododendron forests, and vast meadows blanketed with snow during the winter months (December to March). It is one of the few Himalayan treks where you can witness a 360° view of India’s most iconic peaks — including Nanda Devi (7,816 m), Dronagiri, Hathi Parvat, Kamet, and Neelkanth.
Why Kuari Pass is the Best Winter Trek?
Snow Experience: The trail transforms into a white paradise during winter, making it ideal for those who want to experience trekking in snow for the first time.
Magnificent Himalayan Views: Few treks offer such close and uninterrupted views of the towering Garhwal Himalayas.
Beginner-Friendly: With moderate difficulty, it’s perfect for beginners who want a safe and scenic introduction to winter trekking.
Cultural Experience: The route passes through quaint villages like Auli, Guling, and Khullara, where you can interact with local mountain communities.
Auli Ski Slopes: The trek often starts from Auli, one of India’s best skiing destinations, adding an extra adventure element.
Kuari Pass Trek Highlights
Altitude: 12,516 ft
Trek Distance: Approx. 33 km
Duration: 5–6 days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Base Camp: Joshimath / Auli
Trek Route
Joshimath – Auli – Guling – Khullara – Kuari Pass – Tali – Joshimath
Each day brings a new landscape — from snow-covered forests to open meadows, and finally, the majestic view of the Himalayas from the Kuari summit.
Flora, Fauna, and Landscape
The trail is rich in biodiversity. You’ll walk through forests of oak, rhododendron, and deodar, and might spot Himalayan birds and mountain goats. The panoramic campsites under starry skies are an experience of a lifetime.
Why Choose Walking The Himalayas?
At Walking The Himalayas, we believe trekking is not just about reaching the summit — it’s about the journey, the stories, and the connections you make along the way. Our Kuari Pass Winter Trek packages are designed to give you a comfortable, safe, and unforgettable Himalayan experience with experienced guides, high-quality equipment, and local support teams.
Whether you are a first-time trekker or an experienced adventurer, the Kuari Pass Trek promises to be an extraordinary winter adventure — a perfect mix of thrill, beauty, and tranquility.
Join us at Walking The Himalayas and explore the magic of Kuari Pass this winter!
Itinerary of Kuari Pass
Day 1: Pickup from Rishikesh and Drive to Joshimath (256 km, 8–9 hours)
Your Kuari Pass Trek adventure begins with a scenic drive from Rishikesh to Joshimath, the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. After an early morning pickup by the Walking The Himalayas team, you’ll start your journey along the banks of the sacred rivers Ganga and Alaknanda.
The route passes through picturesque towns like Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karnaprayag, where you can witness the confluence of holy rivers that form the mighty Ganga. As you move higher, the landscape changes dramatically — from the plains of Rishikesh to the lush valleys and snow-clad peaks of Uttarakhand.
By evening, you’ll reach Joshimath (6,150 ft), a beautiful hill town that serves as the base camp for the Kuari Pass Trek. After checking into your guesthouse or hotel, you can relax and acclimatize to the mountain air. Enjoy a hearty dinner and a short briefing session by your trek leader about the upcoming days.
Highlights of the Day:
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Scenic drive through the confluence points of the Ganga River system.
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Experience the gradual shift from plains to the high Himalayan landscape.
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Stay at a comfortable guesthouse/hotel in Joshimath.
Altitude: 6,150 ft
Drive Distance: 256 km
Drive Duration: 8–9 hours
Day 2: Joshimath to Dhak by Drive and Trek to Gulling Top (9,200 ft)
After an early breakfast at Joshimath, we’ll begin the day with a short drive to Dhak village (6,800 ft) — the starting point of your Kuari Pass Trek. The 12 km drive takes about 30–40 minutes and offers beautiful glimpses of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks.
From Dhak, your trek begins with a gradual ascent through charming Himalayan villages like Tugasi and Kharchi. The trail winds through terraced farms, oak and rhododendron forests, and traditional stone houses that showcase the simple yet vibrant lifestyle of the mountain people.
As you gain altitude, the views start opening up — the majestic Dronagiri and Hathi Parvat mountains appear on the horizon, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. After about 5–6 km of trekking (4–5 hours), you’ll reach Gulling Top (9,200 ft) — a serene campsite surrounded by forests and overlooking the stunning Garhwal peaks.
Settle into your tents and enjoy a hot cup of tea while soaking in the tranquil mountain ambiance. In the evening, relax around a warm campfire and share stories with fellow trekkers under a sky full of stars.
Highlights of the Day:
Scenic drive from Joshimath to Dhak village.
Trek through local Garhwali villages and rhododendron forests.
First views of Dronagiri and Hathi Parvat.
Overnight stay in tents at Gulling Top.
Altitude: 9,200 ft
Trek Distance: 5–6 km
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Drive Duration: 30–40 minutes
Day 3: Trek from Gulling Top to Tali Forest Camp (11,000 ft)
Wake up to the sound of chirping birds and the crisp mountain air at Gulling Top. After breakfast, we begin our trek towards Tali Forest Camp, one of the most beautiful campsites on the Kuari Pass Trek.
The trail today takes you deeper into the wilderness — a mesmerizing walk through dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests. As you gradually ascend, the forest occasionally opens up to reveal breathtaking views of Dronagiri, Hathi Parvat, and Nanda Devi, the second-highest peak in India.
The climb is moderate, with a few steep stretches, but the cool breeze and the captivating scenery make it enjoyable. Midway, you can take a short rest to soak in the surrounding beauty and click some photographs of the snow-dusted ridges and valleys.
By afternoon, you’ll reach Tali Forest Camp (11,000 ft) — a serene clearing amidst tall trees and surrounded by panoramic Himalayan views. This is an ideal spot to experience the quietude of the mountains and prepare for the upcoming climb to Kuari Pass.
After settling into your tents, enjoy a hot meal and spend the evening watching the changing hues of the sunset over the distant peaks. At night, the clear sky above Tali offers one of the best stargazing experiences on the trek.
Highlights of the Day:
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Trek through enchanting oak and rhododendron forests.
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Stunning views of Dronagiri and Nanda Devi peaks.
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Overnight stay at the peaceful Tali Forest Camp.
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Ideal location for stargazing and mountain photography.
Altitude: 11,000 ft
Trek Distance: 5–6 km
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Day 4: Trek from Tali Forest Camp to Kuari Pass via Khullara Top and Back (12,516 ft)
Today is the summit day — the most awaited and rewarding part of the Kuari Pass Trek. After an early breakfast, we start our trek from Tali Forest Camp towards Khullara Top, gradually ascending through snow-covered meadows and alpine landscapes.
The trail opens up beautifully as you leave the forest behind. From Khullara Top, the view is simply breathtaking — you’ll see a majestic wall of Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi (7,816 m), Dronagiri, Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Hathi Parvat, and Kamet. The panorama from here is what makes Kuari Pass one of the best winter treks in India.
From Khullara, the trail gets steeper as we make our final ascent to the Kuari Pass (12,516 ft). As you stand at the pass, surrounded by snow and towering peaks, you’ll feel a deep sense of accomplishment. The sweeping 360° view of the Garhwal Himalayas is nothing short of magical — a moment worth every step of the climb.
After spending some time soaking in the views and capturing photos, we begin our descent back to Tali Forest Camp (or Khullara Camp, depending on weather conditions). The return journey offers equally mesmerizing views as the golden light of sunset hits the snow-laden slopes.
Enjoy a warm dinner and spend the night sharing your summit experiences under the starlit sky.
Highlights of the Day:
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Summit trek to Kuari Pass (12,516 ft).
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Panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Dronagiri.
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Walk through snowfields and alpine meadows.
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Overnight stay at Tali or Khullara Camp.
Altitude: 12,516 ft (Kuari Pass)
Trek Distance: 10–12 km (round trip)
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (due to altitude and snow)
Day 5: Via Gurson bugyal (11150 ft), and Auli (9680 ft), Tali forest camp to Joshimath
Your final day on the Kuari Pass Trek begins with a stunning descent through the picturesque Gurson Bugyal, one of the most beautiful alpine meadows in Uttarakhand. After breakfast, we leave Tali Forest Camp and start our trek through gentle forest trails that soon open up into vast rolling grasslands blanketed in snow during the winter months.
As you walk through Gurson Bugyal (11,150 ft), the views of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri, and Neelkanth accompany you all along the way. The endless white meadows and the golden sunlight reflecting off the peaks create a truly dreamlike atmosphere — a perfect farewell to your Himalayan adventure.
From Gurson, the trail gradually descends toward Auli (9,680 ft) — famous for its ski slopes and panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas. You can spend some time here enjoying the surroundings or take a short break for photos before continuing your journey.
At Auli, our vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Joshimath, marking the end of your trekking journey. Check into your hotel and relax after the five days of adventure, snow, and serenity. In the evening, celebrate your successful Kuari Pass summit with the Walking The Himalayas team over dinner and reflection.
Highlights of the Day:
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Walk across the mesmerizing Gurson Bugyal, one of the finest meadows in Uttarakhand.
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Enjoy panoramic views of the Nanda Devi range.
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Pass through Auli, India’s top skiing destination.
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Drive back to Joshimath for a comfortable overnight stay.
Altitude:
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Gurson Bugyal – 11,150 ft
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Auli – 9,680 ft
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Joshimath – 6,150 ft''
Trek Distance: 8–9 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Drive Duration: 30 minutes
Day 6: Departure from Joshimath to Rishikesh (256 km, 8–9 hours)
Wake up early and enjoy your last breakfast in the mountains with the Walking The Himalayas team. It’s time to bid farewell to the snow-capped peaks and the serene beauty of the Himalayas that have been your home for the past few days.
After breakfast, we begin our drive back from Joshimath to Rishikesh, retracing the beautiful route along the Alaknanda and Ganga rivers. The journey takes you through charming mountain towns and confluence points like Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag, where the sacred rivers meet to form the holy Ganga.
Take one last look at the majestic hills and valleys as you descend toward the plains. By evening, you’ll reach Rishikesh, marking the end of your unforgettable Kuari Pass Winter Trek adventure.
As you part ways, you’ll carry not just photographs, but also memories of snow trails, starry nights, and the warm camaraderie of fellow trekkers — experiences that will stay with you forever.
Highlights of the Day:
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Scenic drive through the confluences of the Ganga river system.
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Farewell to the mountains and your trekking team.
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Arrival in Rishikesh by evening.
Drive Distance: 256 km
Drive Duration: 8–9 hours
Q&A
Is the Kuari Pass trek difficult?
The Kuari Pass trek is a moderate-level trek in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand in India. The trek covers a total distance of approximately 33 kilometers (20.5 miles) and is usually completed in 4-6 days.
The trek starts from the village of Dhak and passes through dense forests, scenic meadows, and remote villages before reaching the Kuari Pass, which is located at an altitude of approximately 3,658 meters (12,000 feet). The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Kamet, and Trishul.
The difficulty level of the trek is moderate, with some sections being steep and challenging. The trek involves ascending to high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness in some trekkers. Therefore, it is important to acclimatize properly and maintain a slow and steady pace throughout the trek.
Trekkers need to be in good physical condition and have some prior trekking experience to complete the Kuari Pass trek. The trek also involves camping in the mountains, requiring all necessary equipment and supplies, including warm clothing and proper trekking gear.
Overall, the Kuari Pass trek is a moderately challenging trek that offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and is suitable for experienced trekkers who are up for a challenging adventure in the mountains.
Is the Kuari Pass trek for beginners?
The Kuari Pass trek is not recommended for beginners or inexperienced trekkers. The trek covers a total distance of approximately 33 kilometers (20.5 miles) and reaches an altitude of approximately 3,658 meters (12,000 feet). The trek involves ascending to high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness in some trekkers. Therefore, it is important to acclimatize properly and maintain a slow and steady pace throughout the trek.
Additionally, the trek involves some steep and challenging sections, and the weather conditions can be unpredictable, with sudden rain, snowfall, and temperature drops. The trek also involves camping in the mountains, requiring all necessary equipment and supplies, including warm clothing and proper trekking gear.
Therefore, it is recommended that trekkers have some prior trekking experience and be in good physical condition before attempting the Kuari Pass trek. It is important to be well-prepared with the right equipment, clothing, and supplies to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
What is Kuari Pass famous for?
Kuari Pass is a high mountain pass in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand in India. The pass is famous for its scenic beauty and offers stunning views of some of the highest peaks in the Himalayan range, including Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Kamet, and Trishul.
The Kuari Pass trek is famous among adventure enthusiasts and trekkers for its picturesque landscapes and challenging trekking routes. The trek takes you through dense forests, scenic meadows, and remote villages, offering a unique glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the local people.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Kuari Pass is also famous for its historical significance. The pass was an important trade route in ancient times, connecting the people of the Chamoli district with the Tibet region of China. Today, the pass attracts trekkers from all over the world, seeking adventure, scenic beauty, and a glimpse into the history and culture of the region.
Overall, the Kuari Pass is famous for its scenic beauty, adventure, and historical significance, making it a popular destination for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts.
Included in the package
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Food as per the menu on the trek (Starting with Dinner on Day 1)
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Forest Permits/Camping Charges
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Tents, Sleeping bags, mats, and Technical equipment
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Safety Equipment.
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Trek guide, cook, helpers, porters & mules for carrying common luggage.
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Services of a Trek Leader.
Not included in the package
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Meals during road journeys
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Meals during the hotel stay
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Any expense of a personal nature
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Any expense not specified in the inclusion list
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Transportation from Rishikesh to Joshimath and back to Rishikesh.
Cancellation
If your trek gets called off at the last moment due to a natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rains, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh, etc.) we will not refund your money. Instead of money, Walking The Himalayas will issue a trek voucher for the full amount. You can easily redeem that voucher for the same amount for any of the treks available at the same price.
In case you wish to cancel your trek please email us at help@walkingthehimalayas.com
Cancellation charges are based on the total trek fee, irrespective of the amount paid either full or partial.
The cancellation policy of Walking The Himalayas is based on the original booking time and the original start date of the trek.
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If you cancel a trek before 30 days of the trek start date and get a full refund after the deduction of a 1.99% payment processing fee.
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If you cancel a trek before 15 days of the trek start date and get a refund after a deduction of 20% of the total trek fee.
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If you cancel a trek before 10 days of the trek start date and get a refund after a deduction of 40% of the total trek fee.
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If you cancel a trek before 5 days of the trek start date and get a refund after a deduction of 60% of the total trek fee.
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The Trek fee is non-refundable if you cancel within 4 days before the trek start date.
Trek cancellation due to weather:
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In case of an incomplete trek due to weather conditions, you can opt for the same trek again throughout your lifetime on all our fixed departures for the same trek.
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This attempt only covers the trek fee and will not include any rentals or the transportation amount paid earlier.
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This is non-transferable.
