KUARI PASS TREK – AN OVERVIEW
Kuari Pass trek is a famous trek in Garhwal Himalayas, which is also known as the Lord Curzon Trail being first discovered by Lord Curzon, (the famous former Viceroy of India and a keen trekker) is a spectacular trek to the Kuari Pass adjoining through the outer wall of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, crossing passes and beautiful small river in the Garhwal.
Kuari Pass Trek is exclusively popular among the travellers. At an elevation of 4265m in the heart of Chamoli District of Uttaranchal. In the north eastern region of Garhwal, the Kuari Pass Trek brings the high altitude meadows of Gorson Stunning views of the big Himalayan peaks, of Nanda Devi, Hathi parvat, Ghodi parvat and Dronagiri. The trek will take the travellers through the blossoming green fields, small pahadi villages and the forests of the area.
The spectacular views of Himalayan peaks like- Trishul (7120 m) Kedarnath (22,994 ft/6968 m), Kamet (7756 m), Neelkanth (6596 m), the square-topped summits of Gori Parbat and Hathi Parbat, Badrinath, the icy crest of Dunagiri, Rishikot, Changabang (6864 m), Kedarnath and Choukhamba (7128 m) and the legendary twin peaks of Nanda Devi, (7740 m), surrounded by the majestic walls of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary adds delights to the Kuari Pass Trek.
While trekking along the region of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, you will encounter lush green fields, serene meadows, wildlife rich dense forests, and enchanting, serene villages.
Kuari Pass trek begins in a village named Ghat, which is known for its beautiful grassy fields and riverside camping.On the way to Ghat village on our first day, we will drive alongside rivers like the Ganges and Alaknanda.
The sounds of these flowing rivers make your journey refreshing
BRIEF ITINERARY – KUARI PASS TREK
Day 1: Rishikesh – Ghat (230 kms – Drive 7-8 hrs) – top of Ghunni village – camp at night
Day 2: Walk starts from Ghunni to – Jhinjhi Village (16 kms/7-8 hrs) – camp at night
Day 3: Walk from Jhinjhi – Pana Village (8-9 kms/4-5 hrs)
Day 4: From Pana to Dakhwani (3300 mts/10824 ft) 14 kms/5-6 hrs
Day 5: From Dakhwani to – Kuari Pass (3800 mts/ ft) – Khullara camp – 9 kms
Day 6: Walk from Khullara to Tugasi Village – 15-16 kms/6-7 hrs – drive to Tapovan & back in the evening – 15 kms
Day 7: Trek ends, drive from Tugasi Village – Rishikesh (300 kms – 7/8 hrs drive)
TREK COST : RS. 30000/- PER PERSON
Number of Days : 07 Days
Kuari Pass Trek distance : 65 kms approx
Category : Moderate to Difficult Adventure
Area : Gharwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand, India
Highlights: Nanda Devi Sanctuary, Kuari Pass Summit, forest,
meadows, important peaks
Highest point: 4265 m
Kuari Pass Trek best time : Jan to April & Sept to Dec
DETAILED ITINERARY – KUARI PASS TREK(LORD CURZON TRAIL)
Day 1: Rishikesh – Ghat Village – Ghunni village (175 kms – Drive 7-8 hrs)
Morning meet and greet by our team, drive to Ghat village via Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnprayag and Nandprayag, the most holy confluences of Garhwal Himalayask Then further drive 15 kms to top of Ghunni village. Overnight in camp. Enjoy the small village life & culture and bonfire.
Day 2: Ghunni – Jhinjhi Village (16 kms/7-8 hrs)
Morning start walking , reach a small top after few kms hike and enjoy the lovely views of all villages from a meadow. Further the trail involves passing few waterfalls. The walk is through forest area with rhododendron and oak tress. Have lunch on the way. We reach Jhinjhi village in the end, camp at night in the middle of Jhinjhi village.
Day 3 : Jhinjhi – Pana Village (8-9 kms/4-5 hrs)
Today’s walk begins with a chance to experience the way of life and culture of the people in Jhinjhi village. You will also enjoy some nice views of nearby villages and impressive Himalayan peaks along the way.
The path is mostly easy, taking you through a lovely Rhododendron forest and past Kaliagad until you reach the village of Pana. To end the day, there’s a short uphill climb of less than a kilometer to reach our campsite above Pana village, where we will spend the night.
Day 4 : Pana – Dakhwani (3300 mts/10824 ft) 14 kms/5 hrs
The trail is easy to follow beyond the campsite. It goes through a beautiful Rhododendron forest, with a few small hills to climb. Eventually, it leads to a ridge. From there, the path continues gently through the forest and opens up to a meadow called Sartoli. This meadow serves as a camping site and a place for sheep and cattle to graze.
From Sartoli, we pass by a big waterfall and cross two rivers through the suspension bridge. We reach Dakhwani where we camp for the night. We also get the view of Kuari Pass top from here. Dinner and night stay at this campsite.
Day 5 : Dakhwani – Kuari Pass (3800 mts/ 12500 ft) – Khullara camp (9 kms/5-6 hrs)
On this day, it’s best to start early to witness a breathtaking view at the pass. The trail from Dakhwani keeps going uphill through the forest until we leave the tree-covered area. At this point, the path moves to the left side of the valley, just below the pass. It then zigzags its way up to the pass.
Once you reach the pass, you’ll be treated to an absolutely amazing view of the majestic Greater Himalayas. Take your time, relax, and capture some stunning photographs at this spot. Afterward, the trail goes slightly up to a small hill (highest point – 4265 mts) where you’ll get an excellent view of the Dronagiri peak.
Following this, the trail goes downhill to Khullara camp, hault for the night.
Day 6 : Khullara – Tugasi Village – Tapovan (2550 mts/8364 ft) 15-16 kms/4 hrs
Morning you can take it easy and relax as the walk is downhill and an easy walk surrounded by the stunning Himalayan mountains. Finally we reach Tugasi village in Tapovan. We will hault for the night in a homestay at Tugasi village, one can freshen up here, relax and have lunch.
In the evening drive 15 kms to Tapovan to enjoy a dip in the hot spring.
Day 7 : Tugasi – Rishikesh (300 kms – 8/9 hrs drive)
Early morning, we will take start the drive back to Rishikesh. Along the way, we will make a stop at Rudraprayag for lunch, a place where the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers come together. By evening, we will reach Rishikesh, trek comes to an end with sweet memories.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS) ABOUT THE KUARI PASS TREK – LORD CURZON’S TRAIL
The Kuari Pass Trek, often referred to as Lord Curzon’s Trail, is a well-loved trekking route nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. If you’re planning to go on this adventure, you might have some questions in mind. Here are some frequently asked questions about the Kuari Pass Trek:
What is the Kuari Pass Trek, and why is it called Lord Curzon’s Trail?
The Kuari Pass Trek is a high-altitude trek that takes you through the breath taking landscapes of the Garhwal Himalayas. It is named after Lord Curzon, the former Viceroy of India, who explored this trail in the early 1900s, and with us you will get to experience the original trail.
How challenging is the Kuari Pass Trek?
The Kuari Pass Trek is considered moderately challenging, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. It is required to be in good physical condition and acclimatize properly to the altitude.
When is the best time to embark on the Kuari Pass Trek?
The ideal times for the Kuari Pass Trek are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons. While winter treks are possible for experienced hikers, heavy snowfall can make it quite demanding.
How long does it take to complete the Kuari Pass Trek?
Typically, the Kuari Pass Trek spans about 6 to 7 days, including acclimatization and rest days, covering a distance of approximately 55 kilometers.
What are the major highlights of the Kuari Pass Trek?
Captivating views of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Hathi Parvat, Ghodi Parvat, and Dronagiri. Serene meadows, lush green fields, dense forests, and charming remote villages.Trekking alongside iconic rivers such as the Ganges, Alaknanda, Bhagirathi, and Mandakini. Immersion in local culture by interacting with villagers.
Is prior trekking experience necessary for the Kuari Pass Trek?
While prior trekking experience is beneficial, the Kuari Pass Trek is open to beginners who are physically fit and prepared for high-altitude hiking. Some physical conditioning before the trek is advisable.
What permits and permissions are required for the Kuari Pass Trek?
To enter specific areas along the trail, permits are necessary, and they can be arranged through the Mapping The Himalayas trek organizers.
What should I pack for the Kuari Pass Trek?
Essential items include warm clothing, a sturdy backpack, good trekking shoes, necessary medications, and personal essentials. You should also refer to the specific packing list provided by Mapping The Himalayas.
Is the Kuari Pass Trek safe?
Generally, the Kuari Pass Trek is safe, provided you prepare adequately and follow the guidance of experienced guides. Weather can change anytime at high altitudes.
How can I book the Kuari Pass Trek?
You can book your Kuari Pass Trek by contacting Mapping The Himalayas in Rishikesh. We have experienced guides, quality equipment and snow gears.
The Kuari Pass Trek offers a transformative experience, combining the beauty of nature with the thrill of adventure.
