6 Days | 5 Nights
13 people
Rishikesh
Standing at the threshold of the mighty Himalayas, Kuari Pass has become a winter delight for mountain lovers. This legendary trail in Uttarakhand was first explored by Lord Curzon, and it now beckons us with its pristine beauty and awe-inspiring vistas. Known as the Curzon Trail, this trek reaches an altitude of 12,700 ft taking us through enchanting forests of rhododendron, oak, and deodar, often blanketed in a shimmering layer of snow. The allure of the Kuari Pass becomes evident with every step, bringing you closer to heaven. The majestic Greater Himalayan ranges appear so close that it feels as if we can hug them. This proximity to such towering giants is a compelling reason for any trekker to choose this path. Here, the mountains are not distant silhouettes; they are our companions, guiding us along the way.
One of the most captivating highlights of this trek is the mind-blowing view of the majestic Nanda Devi massif. From Gorson Bugyal to Auli, we are treated to uninterrupted views of Mt. Nanda Devi until it eventually fades from sight. Seeing this peak in its full glory, especially the famed southwest face, is like fulfilling a long-held dream. As we tread the trail and behold Nanda Devi, we are struck by a profound sense of reverence, as if we are standing before a deity. The panoramic view extends as we turn our heads, revealing Mount Chaukhamba, Mount Kamet, Mount Neelkanth, Mount Dronagiri, and Mount Hathi Ghoda, all standing proudly beside Nanda Devi. Such grandeur is beyond words and must be experienced firsthand.
The Kuari Pass is not just about mountain views. The enchanting oak forests we traverse are equally mesmerizing. These forests, with their golden oaks and pine trees, provide a serene and magical backdrop. After a long day’s walk, arriving at a campsite nestled among these trees fills us with a deep sense of tranquility and positive energy. The oak forests, typical of the Uttarakhand region, are particularly enchanting here, offering a gentle, almost flat terrain that makes the walk through them a delightful experience. Snowfall in these forests transforms them into a winter wonderland, with snow adorning the branches like delicate bows. As we leave the oak forests behind, we step into the vast meadows of Gorson Bugyal. This expansive stretch of green is flanked by the grand peaks of Dronagiri and Nanda Devi on one side and the rolling meadows on the other. Whether lush green in early autumn, golden in late autumn, or stark white in winter, the meadows of Kuari Pass are stunning in every season. Walking on the ridge of Chitrakantha at 12,000 feet is an experience to cherish, with the landscape offering a beautiful contrast of meadows and mountain views.
Drive from Rishikesh to Karchi
As dawn breaks over the holy city of Rishikesh, we embark on our journey toward the charming village of Karachi. Our route hugs the winding tributaries of the Ganga, offering breathtaking views of Garhwal's verdant valleys and dense forests. The nine to ten-hour drive, covering approximately 255 km, is a visual feast, with each turn revealing the grandeur of the mountains.
Upon crossing Pipalkoti, the scenery transforms dramatically. We catch our first glimpse of the imposing Mt. Dronagiri, a constant companion for the days ahead. As we near Karachi, the air is filled with anticipation. Karchi's warm hospitality welcomes us, and the sight of Mt. Dronagiri is awe-inspiring. We spend the evening exploring the village, taking in the hot springs and the historic significance of Lata and Reini, the birthplace of the Chipko movement.
Trek from Karchi to Akhrotghetta
Today, our destination is Akhrotghetta, a perfect camping site that offers a spectacular view of the mighty peaks of Mount Kamet, Mount Neelkanth, and Mount Dronagiri. Their imposing presence is a testament to the jaw-dropping beauty of our country. This easy access to such a breathtaking panorama is a unique aspect of the Kuari Pass trek. Our trek begins with a hearty breakfast, fueling us for the journey ahead. Today's trek is a moderate challenge, with a distance of 2.75 km that we cover in about five to six hours. We start our ascent, a mix of gentle slopes and steeper climbs, through a forest brimming with oak and maple trees. As we trek, Mt. Dronagiri stands tall, guiding us through the lush landscape. The forest is alive with vibrant bird calls and the occasional rustle of wildlife. We pause for lunch amidst nature's bounty, savoring the tranquility. By late afternoon, we reach Akhrotghetta, our campsite, which offers panoramic views of the Greater Himalayan ranges. This area is known for its tranquility and dense canopy of trees, providing a serene atmosphere perfect for acclimatizing to the higher altitudes. We rest, sharing stories around the camp under a canopy of stars.
Trek from Akhrotghetta to Khullara base camp
After a wholesome breakfast, we set out on our trek to Khullara. Covering a distance of 2.5 km over four to five hours, the trek is a moderate ascent all the way. We traverse through golden oak forests interspersed with vibrant rhododendrons. The forest path offers glimpses of majestic peaks, getting closer with each step. By early afternoon, we arrive at Khullara, a beautiful campsite surrounded by towering peaks, including Mount Dronagiri. This location allows trekkers to enjoy the raw beauty of the Himalayas up close. Be mesmerized by the alpenglow that paints the peaks in hues of gold and pink as the sun sets.
Trek from Khullara to Tali via Kuari Pass
Today is the highlight of our trek. We begin early, climbing steeply for about an hour and a half before a gradual ascent to Kuari Pass. The climb is challenging but immensely rewarding. Upon reaching Kuari Pass at 12,516 feet, we are greeted by an awe-inspiring panorama of the Greater Himalayas. The pass offers stunning views of the southwest face of Nanda Devi, along with other majestic peaks like Chaukhamba, Kamet, Hathi Ghoda, and Dronagiri.
Breathe in the pure breeze and immerse yourself in the realm of Mother Nature. After a photo session, we will continue our trek with a ridge walk, followed by a descent for an hour and a half, another ascent, and finally a moderate descent to Tali. The trek covers 7.65 km in eight to nine hours. As we walk through Tali Forest, the serene ambiance soothes our tired limbs. A delicious dinner awaits us at Tali to tantalize your taste buds before retiring for the night.
Trek from Tali to Auli; Drive to Dhak
The final day of trekking begins with a gradual ascent from Tali. After about forty minutes, we tackle a steep climb, followed by another forty-five minutes of a more gentle ascent. The trail then descends for three hours, taking us through the beautiful Gorson Bugyal meadows and the enchanting forests of Padiyar. We cover 8.10 km in seven to eight hours, reaching Auli, where the view of Mt. Nanda Devi takes our breath away. Auli, known for its ski resorts, provides a different perspective of the Himalayas. From Auli, a vehicle awaits to drive us to Dhak. The drive marks the end of our trekking adventure. We spend the evening in Dhak, reflecting on our journey and the stunning landscapes we've traversed.
Drive from Dhak to Rishikesh
We depart early from Dhak, setting off on a nine-ten-hour drive back to Rishikesh, covering 263 km. Along the way, we pass the famous Panch Prayags, the five sacred confluences of the Alaknanda River. The journey is a contemplative one, as we reminisce about the trek and the memories we've created. Arriving in Rishikesh by evening, we have the option to explore this vibrant city. Whether visiting the ghats, exploring the bustling markets, or attending the Ganga Aarti, Rishikesh offers a perfect conclusion to our Himalayan adventure. We part ways, carrying with us the spirit of the mountains and the camaraderie of our trek.
There are a number of buses going daily from Kashmiri Gate, Delhi to ISBT, Rishikesh. Last bus is at 11 pm. It takes 4:30 hours to reach Rishikesh. Our representative will receive you at Rishikesh. If you are a group, please contact us for budget-friendly transfer deals.
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