About Kuari Pass Trek

One of the most popular treks in the Indian Himalayan region that is located in the Garhwal Himalaya, the Kuari Pass trek draw in thousands of explorers from all over the world every year. The route to Kuari Pass was once traversed by Lord Curzon in 1905 and hence the Kuari Pass trek is often dubbed as ‘Lord Curzon Trail’. The trek passes through the thick alpine forests of oak and conifer, Rhododendron and birch, teeming with a variety of animals and birds life and NOT TO YOUR SURPRISE, you may even come across leopard pugmarks or a Himalayan black bear on this trail. The trek to Kuari Pass is thus connected with each and every elements of adventure that embarks upon often and on steep ascends and descends, narrow and tricky paths and gushing streams. Further, the journey is worth the effort something you will soon realize when you capture the picturesque silver horizon keeping parallel to the spotless blue sky. Throughout the trail you can simply treat your eyes on the spectacular views of the Trishul at 7,120 meters, Kedarnath at 6,968 meters, Kamet’s pyramid of granite 7,756 meters, Neelkanth at 6,596 meters, the square-topped summits of Gauri Parbat and Hathi Parbat, Badrinath, the icy crest of Dunagiri, Rishikot, Changabang at 6,864 meters and the legendary twin peaks of Nanda Devi at 7,740 meters.

The trek to Kuari Pass starts from Selu Bagar, which is a drive able distance from Ghat. The trail from Selu Bagar heads to Ghunni, which is a short trek of approximately 2–3 hours. From Ghunni the trail snakes through a rich undulating landscape that is bedded with several species of alpine trees and wild flowers. You will also come across a small village, Ramni, which is inhabited by a Himalayan tribe who are living a harmonious life full of colours and spirits. Thereafter, the trek to Kuari Pass becomes strenuous as the trail continues with a steep climb to Jhinjhi village en route to Vinayak Pass. Throughout the trail, from Ghunni to Jhinjhi that traverses through an open meadow with stunning views of some of the Himalayan jewels, one can frame the panorama of Nanda Ghunti and Chaukhamba. Gradually the journey passes through the beautiful forests of Rhododendron, followed by pasture grasslands for sheeps and cattle with some nomadic huts. At Vinayak Pass one can pay a visit to the Ganesha temple that is embroidered with a prayer flag. From Jhinjhi the trail continues along the river Birahi Ganga and leads to Pana village. From Pana the trek to Kuari Pass via Dakhwani cuts across every element of nature, thick forest, streams, varied landscapes and wildlife making it truly surreal. The trek downhill from Kuari Pass leads to Tali and thereafter to Joshimath via Auli.

Kuari Pass Trekking Tour Highlights

• The lush green Gorson meadow
• Grand views of 4 peaks of Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Mana, Kamet, Hathi, Ghodi, Trishul, Nandaghunti, Nanda Devi, Dunagiri
• Witness an ancient trading route.
• Tali lake
• Verdant forest
• Panchachuli base camp

Best Time to Visit

Temperature in summer remains between 19̊C to 29̊C while in winter the temperature falls upto -8̊C and the maximum temperature can go up to 12̊C. Thus, these two seasons are fit for the trek to Kuari Pass.

Weather in Kuari Pass

• Summer: Kuari Pass Trek is best during summer season starting from April till mid-June. The calm and pleasing summer sun makes the trek enjoyable. Carrying Light woolens is adviced.
• Monsoon: In monsoon, the route becomes muddy and slippery for the trekkers. It is better to avoid trekking in this season.
• Spring: Spring month’s mid-September to early November are considered best time to trek Kuari Pass. The trekking is fun with lush greenery all around and the calm weather.
• Winter: The trek becomes difficult during the winter season. Heavy woolen clothes and shoes are must for trekking during winter.

Where is the Kuari Pass?

Kuari Pass is located in the vicinity of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which is at an altitude of 4265 meters above sea level. Kuari Pass is the major trekking destination in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The Pass is at the center of the most incredible regions of Garhwal and is known for its unique wild grandeur. The background below the valley is the entrance to the formidable Rishi Gorge, which was once considered un-penetrable. Kuari Pass is has a moderate altitude of 12,200 feet but it is replete with views that are unprecedented. The camping grounds of Gulling, Chitrakantha & Tali are the major attractions of the trek. The trails leading from Tali Top to Kuari Pass gives an impression of doing a full an alpine expedition as one traverse through grounds that are layered with snow. For the first-timers, the Kuari Pass trek can be an enthralling experience as the trek includes rock climbing, walking through the dense forests and the snow-laden trails.