The Curzon Trail · Garhwal Himalayas
Kuari Pass Trek
Walk through oak and rhododendron forests, alpine meadows and seasonal snow to panoramic views from the 12,516 ft Kuari Pass.
Duration6D / 5N
Highest point12,516 ft
DifficultyModerate
Trail lengthApprox. 33 km
Base villageTugashi
Kuari Pass Trek
Kuari Pass is one of the most scenic high-altitude treks in the Garhwal Himalayas, combining dense forests, alpine meadows, snow-covered trails and spectacular Himalayan views. The route passes through Tugashi, Gulling and Khullara before reaching the famous Kuari Pass.
Trail highlights
Rishikesh to Joshimath
A scenic Himalayan drive beside the Alaknanda River.
Tugashi trailhead
Begin from a traditional mountain village near Joshimath.
Gulling forests
Climb through peaceful oak and rhododendron woods.
Khullara landscape
Camp amid one of the route’s finest alpine settings.
Kuari Pass summit
Reach approximately 12,516 ft on the main summit day.
Himalayan panorama
Enjoy wide views across surrounding snow peaks.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1Rishikesh to Joshimath – Drive
Your Kuari Pass adventure begins from Rishikesh with an early morning departure towards Joshimath. The scenic journey follows the Alaknanda River and passes through several beautiful Himalayan towns and valleys. The route takes you through Devprayag, Rudraprayag and Karnaprayag before gradually climbing towards Joshimath. Along the way, enjoy views of mountain rivers, forests, traditional villages and dramatic Himalayan landscapes. After reaching Joshimath, check into your hotel or homestay and relax. In the evening, attend a trek briefing, check your equipment and prepare your backpack for the upcoming trek. Enjoy dinner and get a good night's rest before starting the trekking section.
Day 2Joshimath to Tugashi – Drive & Trek to Gulling
After breakfast, leave Joshimath and drive towards Tugashi village, the starting point of the trekking route. The mountain drive itself offers beautiful views of traditional villages and the surrounding Himalayan landscape. From Tugashi, begin your trek towards Gulling campsite. The trail gradually climbs through dense oak and rhododendron forests, offering a peaceful and scenic walking experience. As you gain altitude, the views slowly begin to open up, giving you glimpses of the surrounding mountains. Reach Gulling by afternoon or evening and settle into your campsite. Enjoy a warm meal, relax in the peaceful surroundings and prepare yourself for the next day's trek towards Khullara.
Day 3Gulling to Khullara – Trek
Begin your day with breakfast and start trekking from Gulling towards Khullara. The trail continues through beautiful forest sections before gradually opening into higher-altitude landscapes and alpine meadows. Depending on the season, you may encounter snow along different sections of the trail. As you gain altitude, the views become increasingly impressive, with Himalayan peaks appearing above the surrounding ridges. Khullara is one of the most scenic campsites on the Kuari Pass route and provides an excellent location to rest before the summit day. After reaching the campsite, enjoy some time exploring the surroundings, followed by a hot meal and an early night's rest.
Day 4Khullara to Kuari Pass & Back to Khullara
Today is the most important and challenging day of the trek. Start early after breakfast and begin your climb towards the famous Kuari Pass. The trail takes you through high-altitude meadows, mountain ridges and snow-covered sections depending on the season. As you approach the pass, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with wide panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. Reach Kuari Pass at approximately 12,516 ft and spend some time enjoying the spectacular mountain scenery. After capturing photographs and experiencing the summit, begin your descent back towards Khullara. Reach the campsite by evening, enjoy a hot dinner and rest after completing the summit day.
Day 5Khullara to Tugashi – Trek & Drive to Joshimath
After breakfast, begin your descent from Khullara towards Tugashi village. Retrace the scenic trail through the forests and mountain landscapes that you crossed during the ascent. The descent provides an opportunity to appreciate the surroundings from a different perspective and enjoy the peaceful Himalayan atmosphere. After reaching Tugashi, meet your vehicle and begin the drive back towards Joshimath. Once you reach Joshimath, check into your accommodation and relax after completing the main trekking section. Enjoy a warm dinner and spend the evening celebrating the successful Kuari Pass expedition. Overnight stay in Joshimath.
Day 6Joshimath to Rishikesh – Drive Back
After breakfast, check out from your accommodation in Joshimath and begin the return journey towards Rishikesh. The drive follows the Alaknanda River through the beautiful Himalayan valleys and mountain towns. Enjoy the changing scenery as you gradually descend from the higher Himalayan region towards Rishikesh. Depending on road conditions and the group's schedule, short breaks can be taken along the way for refreshments and photographs. Reach Rishikesh by evening, marking the official end of your Kuari Pass trekking adventure. Carry back memories of forests, alpine meadows, snow-covered trails, the Kuari Pass summit and spectacular Himalayan mountain views.
How to reach Kuari Pass
From Rishikesh
Rishikesh is the recommended starting point. Travel by road to Joshimath via Devprayag, Rudraprayag and Karnaprayag; an early departure is recommended.
From Delhi
Reach Rishikesh by train, bus, flight or private vehicle, then continue to Joshimath by road. An overnight stay in Rishikesh is convenient for late arrivals.
Inclusions & exclusions
Inclusions
- All vegetarian meals from dinner on the first day to breakfast on the last day
- Professional trek team including guide, chef and support staff
- Camping gear including stools, toilet seats, sleeping bags, microspikes and gaiters
- Forest entry fees and necessary trek permits
- Tented camp accommodation on twin and triple sharing basis
- Well-equipped medical kit for emergencies
Exclusions
- Personal expenses such as tips, snacks, beverages and phone calls
- Any extra costs caused by bad weather, trail obstacles or medical evacuation
- Porter or mule services and mule charges unless specifically included in the package
- Travel insurance and personal trekking gear
How to prepare
Proper preparation is the difference between just completing a trek and truly enjoying it. Focus on fitness, understanding altitude, and learning how to walk efficiently in the mountains.
Build Stamina Before the Trek
Your body should be ready for continuous walking for multiple hours. Brisk walking, jogging, cycling and stairs prepare your lungs and legs.
FITNESS FIRSTStrength & Stability Matter
Squats, lunges, step-ups and planks help your muscles support body weight on uneven and snowy terrain.
TRAIN 3-4 DAYS/WEEKTrain With Light Load
Practise walking with a lightly loaded backpack so your shoulders, hips and posture adapt before the trek.
BUILD GRADUALLYUnderstand Altitude Impact
As you gain altitude, oxygen levels decrease. Avoid rushing and allow your body time to adjust.
ASCEND STEADILYHydration & Acclimatization
Drink regularly, eat properly and follow the trek leader’s acclimatization schedule to reduce AMS risk.
HYDRATE OFTENRecognize Early Symptoms
Report persistent headache, nausea, unusual fatigue or dizziness immediately. Never hide symptoms.
INFORM YOUR GUIDEMaintain a Steady Pace
Walk slowly and consistently. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, especially during steep climbs.
SAVE YOUR ENERGYUse the Right Technique
Take short steps, lean slightly forward on climbs and bend your knees gently during descents.
MOVE WITH CONTROLTake Smart Breaks
Use short, planned breaks rather than long stops that cool the body and disturb your walking rhythm.
REST WITH PURPOSEThings to carry
Clothing
Thermals, fleece, down jacket, shell, trek pants, cap and gloves.
Footwear
Trekking shoes, socks and Crocs.
Essentials
Backpack, headlamp, bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen and trek pole.
Personal care
Medicines, toiletries, lip balm, ORS and reusable waste pouch.
Kuari Pass Trek gallery
Swipe the collage or use the arrows. Tap any image to view it full size.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kuari Pass suitable for beginners?
Kuari Pass is a moderate trek suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness and basic trekking preparation.
What is the best time to do the Kuari Pass Trek?
Winter is ideal for snow, while spring and autumn offer greener trails, clearer skies and excellent mountain views.
How difficult is the Kuari Pass Trek?
It is moderate, with gradual ascents, forest trails, alpine meadows and a high-altitude pass crossing. Regular walking and basic fitness are recommended.
Will we get snow on the trek?
Snow depends on the season and current weather. In winter, the higher sections around Khullara and Kuari Pass generally have the best chance of snow.
What should I carry for the Kuari Pass Trek?
Use the common Things to Carry list on this page, including layered clothing, trekking shoes, rain protection and personal essentials.
What is included in the ₹5,500 package?
The Rishikesh-to-Rishikesh package follows the inclusions and exclusions listed on this page.
Booking & cancellation policy
Booking Terms
Choose full payment or reserve your seat with a fixed ₹500 booking amount per person. The remaining balance should be paid on Day 1 upon arrival. Trek slots remain subject to availability until payment confirmation.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Advance Payment | ₹500 per person is required to reserve the trek seat. |
| Remaining Balance | Pay the remaining amount on Day 1 upon arrival. |
| Seat / Slot Status | Subject to availability until final booking confirmation. |
| Required Documents | Government-issued ID such as Aadhaar or driving licence, plus personal and guardian contact numbers. |
| Package Route | Current displayed package is Rishikesh to Rishikesh. |
Important: Final operational decisions on departure flow, weather handling, and on-ground safety remain with the trek leader and operating team.
Cancellation Terms
Cancellation charges may apply depending on the date of cancellation and arrangements already blocked. Last-minute cancellations, no-shows, and unused services are generally non-refundable.
| Cancellation Window | Indicative Policy |
|---|---|
| 30+ days before departure | Low cancellation charge or transferable credit as per operator policy. |
| 15-29 days before departure | Partial cancellation charge may apply. |
| 7-14 days before departure | Higher cancellation charge likely due to blocked arrangements. |
| 0-6 days / No-show | Usually non-refundable. |
Important: Final operational decisions remain with the trek leader and operating team.
Weather & Operational Changes
Treks in the Himalayas are subject to weather, trail conditions, and local administrative regulations. The operator reserves the right to modify timings, route flow, campsite usage, trek pacing, or support logistics in the interest of safety and successful trip execution.
| Factor | Operational Impact |
|---|---|
| Weather Changes | Departure timing, campsite plan, or route order may change. |
| Road Block / Snow | Travel timing may be delayed or rescheduled based on conditions. |
| Administrative Rules | Permissions or movement plans may change as per local instructions. |
| Safety Decision | Final call remains with trek leader and operating team. |
Important: Final operational decisions on departure flow, weather handling, and on-ground safety remain with the trek leader and operating team.
Health & Safety
Every participant should disclose any relevant medical condition before departure. The trek team may refuse participation if conditions are considered unsafe for the guest or group. Personal responsibility, hydration, pace discipline, and following guide instructions are essential during mountain travel.
| Safety Point | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Medical Disclosure | Relevant conditions should be informed in advance. |
| Fitness Readiness | Participants should arrive with basic trek fitness and stamina. |
| Gear Responsibility | Warm clothing, shoes, and essentials should be carried properly. |
| Trek Discipline | Follow guide, stay with group, and avoid risky individual movement. |
Important: Final operational decisions on departure flow, weather handling, and on-ground safety remain with the trek leader and operating team.