The Kuari Pass trek, also known as the Lord Curzon Trail, holds historical significance as the first achievement of Lord Curzon, the former Viceroy of India and an avid trekker. This captivating journey ventures through the outer walls of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, revealing stunning landscapes, traversing passes, and following the course of picturesque river systems in the Garhwal Himalaya. Particularly favored by European and American travelers, the trek unfolds at an elevation of 4265m in the heart of the Chamoli District in Uttarakhand, offering mesmerizing views of the high-altitude meadows of Gorson and iconic Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Hathi Ghoda, and Dronagiri.
- Historical Significance:
- Follow in the footsteps of Lord Curzon, the former Viceroy of India and avid trekker, who first achieved the Kuari Pass in 1905.
- Traverse the same route used by renowned mountaineers like Shipton and Tilman on their way to the Rishi Gorge and peaks on the Indo-Tibetan border.
- Breathtaking Scenery:
- Spectacular views of high-altitude meadows, particularly the stunning Gorson meadows.
- Panoramic vistas of the big Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Hathi Ghodi, Dronagiri, Trishul, Kamet, and more.
- Explore lush green fields, remote villages, and virgin forests along the trail.
- Varied Routes:
- Choose between the classic Curzon Trail from Ghat via Ramni or the Auli Bugyal route through Gorson Top.
- Experience diverse landscapes, from riverbanks to dense forests, depending on the chosen route.
- Cultural Exploration:
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Himalayan inhabitants as you pass through colorful villages.
- Encounter the unique living style and traditions of the Jhinjhi village.
- Wildlife Encounters:
- Possibility of spotting rare Himalayan flora and fauna along the trek, adding an element of wildlife exploration.
- Keep an eye out for leopard pugmarks or even a Himalayan black bear on your route.
- Pass Crossing:
- Crossing the Kuari Pass (Khal) at an elevation of 4265m, a fitting and rewarding conclusion to the trek.
- Traverse three lesser passes and five major rivers, including the Pindar, Kaliganga, Mandakini, Bheriganga, and Dhauliganga.
- Himalayan Peaks:
- Marvel at the spectacular views of iconic Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Kedarnath, Kamet’s pyramid, Nilkanth, Gori Parbat, Hathi Parbat, Badrinath, Dunagiri, Rishikot, Changabang, Kedarnath, Chowkhamba, and the legendary twin peaks of Nanda Devi.
- Camping Experience:
- Camp at scenic locations, including Ghunni, Jhinjhi, Pana, Dakhwani, and Tali, providing a close connection to nature.
- Wake up to breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and enjoy serene nights under the starlit sky.
- Cultural Towns:
- Explore the religious town of Rishikesh, known for its ashrams, temples, and the enchanting Ganges aarti.
- Experience the vibrant market town of serving as a supply hub for nearby villages.
- Well-Structured Itinerary:
- A thoughtfully planned itinerary ensures a balanced mix of trekking, cultural exploration, and leisure.
- Well-paced trekking days with strategic stops for acclimatization and enjoyment of the surroundings.
The Kuari Pass trek promises an unforgettable adventure, combining natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Day 1: Arrival in Rishikesh to Ghunni / Ramni (Drive)
- Distance: Approximately 275 km
- Travel Time: About 7-8 hours
Day 2: Ghunni / Ramni to Jhinjhi Village (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 13 km
- Trek Time: About 6-7 hours
Day 3: Jhinjhi to Pana Village (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 8 km
- Trek Time: About 4-5 hours
Day 4: Pana Village to Dakhwani (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 14 km
- Trek Time: About 5 hours
Day 5: Dakhwani to Kuari Pass to Tali (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 9 km
- Trek Time: About 5-6 hours
Day 6: Tali to Joshimath via Auli (Trek & Drive)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 17 km
- Trek Time: About 5-6 hours
Day 7: Joshimath to Rishikesh (Drive)
- Distance: Approximately 250 km
- Travel Time: About 8-9 hours
Day 1: Arrival in Rishikesh to Ghunni / Ramni (Drive)
- Distance: Approximately 275 km
- Travel Time: About 7-8 hours
- Begin the journey from Rishikesh early in the morning.
- Drive through picturesque landscapes, witnessing the changing scenery.
- Enroute, marvel at the confluences of Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnprayag, and Nandprayag.
- Reach Ghat, a charming village, in the evening.
- Check into the guest house/hotel, relax, and prepare for the trek.
Day 2: Ghunni / Ramni to Jhinjhi Village (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 13 km
- Trek Time: About 6-7 hours
- Trek from Ghunni or Ramni to Jhinjhi Village.
- Ascend to Vinayak Pass, enjoying breathtaking views of Nanda Ghunti and Chaukhamba.
- Traverse through Rhododendron forests and pasturing grounds.
- Descend to the picturesque Jhinjhi Village and camp overnight.
Day 3: Jhinjhi to Pana Village (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 8 km
- Trek Time: About 4-5 hours
- Descend through Jhinjhi village, crossing a high suspension bridge over Birahi Ganga.
- Climb steeply through beautiful Rhododendron forests.
- Reach the settlement at Pana and camp above the village for the night.
Day 4: Pana Village to Dakhwani (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 14 km
- Trek Time: About 5 hours
- Trek from Pana Village to Dakhwani.
- Pass through distinctive trails, ascend to a ridge, and enjoy panoramic views.
- Descend to the campsite at Dakhwani, savoring the serenity of the Himalayan wilderness.
Day 5: Dakhwani to Kuari Pass to Tali (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 9 km
- Trek Time: About 5-6 hours
- Early morning trek to the highlight – Kuari Pass.
- Marvel at sunrise and panoramic views of the greater Himalayas.
- Descend to Tali, camp amidst the scenic landscape, and enjoy views of Nanda Devi.
Day 6: Tali to Joshimath via Auli (Trek & Drive)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 17 km
- Trek Time: About 5-6 hours
- Trek to Auli, a picturesque meadow, with stunning Himalayan views.
- Board a Jeep to Joshimath, a lively market town.
- Check into a hotel, relax, and celebrate the successful completion of the trek.
Day 7: Joshimath to Rishikesh (Drive)
- Distance: Approximately 250 km
- Travel Time: About 8-9 hours
- Drive back to Rishikesh, enroute visit Rudraprayag.
- Check into the hotel, unwind, and reflect on the memorable journey.
- Share stories and experiences with fellow trekkers.
Day 8: Departure from Rishikesh
- Spend a leisure morning in Rishikesh.
- Explore local markets or participate in yoga sessions.
- Bid farewell to the enchanting town with memories of the Kuari Pass trek.
- Depart for Jolly Grant Airport or continue your travel adventures.
Note: The detailed itinerary provides specific distances and trek times, ensuring a clear understanding for a seamless and enjoyable trekking experience.
How to Reach Rishikesh:
By Air:
- The nearest airport to Rishikesh is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 35 kilometers away.
- Regular domestic flights connect Dehradun to major cities in India.
- From the airport, one can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach Rishikesh.
By Train:
- Rishikesh has its own railway station, well-connected to major cities in India.
- Haridwar, another major railway junction, is approximately 25 kilometers away from Rishikesh.
- Regular trains operate from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and others to Rishikesh.
- From the railway station, one can hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach the desired location.
By Road:
- Rishikesh is well-connected by a network of roads and can be easily reached by buses, taxis, or private vehicles.
- State-run buses and private buses operate from various cities, including Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun, to Rishikesh.
- The journey by road offers scenic views of the Himalayas and the Ganges River.
How to Reach Ghat (Starting Point of Kuari Pass Trek):
By Road:
- Ghat is accessible by road and can be reached from Rishikesh or Haridwar.
- One can hire a taxi or use public buses from Rishikesh to Ghat.
- The journey takes approximately 8-10 hours, depending on road conditions.
Trek Starting Point from Ghat:
- The trek typically begins from Selu Bagar, which is a 7 km drive from Ghat.
- Ponies and porters are arranged at Selu Bagar for the trek.
- Ghat is the gateway to the Kuari Pass trail, and the trekking adventure commences from this point.
Note: It’s advisable to check current travel conditions, weather, and road status before planning the journey, as these factors may impact the ease of travel to Rishikesh and the subsequent trek to Kuari Pass.
Booking and Payment:
- Booking Confirmation:
- Confirmation of the booking is subject to the availability of slots and resources.
- Payment Schedule:
- A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking to secure the spot.
- Full payment must be received before the commencement of the trek.
- Payment Methods:
- Accepted payment methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards,UPI, and any other specified means.
Cancellation and Refund Policy:
- Cancellation by Traveler:
- Cancellation requests must be made in writing.
- The deposit is non-refundable.
- Cancellation charges increase as the departure date approaches.
- Cancellation by the Travel Company:
- The travel company reserves the right to cancel or alter the trip due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, a suitable alternative or a refund will be provided.
Trek Itinerary and Inclusions:
- Itinerary Changes:
- The itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions, unforeseen events, or any other circumstances beyond the company’s control.
- Inclusions:
- Clearly outline what is included in the trek package, such as accommodation, meals, transportation, trekking permits, guide services, camping equipment, and more.
Health and Fitness:
- Physical Fitness:
- Acknowledge that trekking involves physical exertion and travelers should be in good health.
- It is the responsibility of the traveler to inform the company of any medical conditions or concerns.
- Altitude Sickness:
- Highlight the risk of altitude sickness and the importance of acclimatization during the trek.
Travel Insurance:
- Mandatory Insurance:
- It is mandatory for all travelers to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events.
Equipment and Gear:
- Personal Equipment:
- Provide a list of recommended personal trekking gear and equipment that travelers need to bring.
- Rental Services:
- Specify if the company provides equipment rental services and associated costs.
Code of Conduct:
- Responsible Trekking:
- Emphasize responsible trekking practices, including leaving no trace, respecting local cultures, and following the Leave No Trace principles.
Force Majeure:
- Unforeseen Events:
- Clarify the company’s stance in case of unforeseen events such as natural disasters, political unrest, or any circumstances beyond control.
Miscellaneous:
- Travel Documents:
- Travelers must possess valid identification and any necessary permits throughout the journey.
- Pre-departure Briefing:
- Highlight the importance of attending pre-departure briefings for safety instructions and trip details.
- Code of Conduct:
- Clearly state the expected behavior of travelers, respecting local customs, fellow trekkers, and the environment.
Legal Compliance:
- Legal Compliance:
- Ensure that all travelers comply with local laws and regulations during the trek.
These terms and conditions aim to provide clear expectations for both the travel company and the travelers, fostering a positive and organized experience throughout the Himalayan journey.
- Historical Significance:
- Follow in the footsteps of Lord Curzon, the former Viceroy of India and avid trekker, who first achieved the Kuari Pass in 1905.
- Traverse the same route used by renowned mountaineers like Shipton and Tilman on their way to the Rishi Gorge and peaks on the Indo-Tibetan border.
- Breathtaking Scenery:
- Spectacular views of high-altitude meadows, particularly the stunning Gorson meadows.
- Panoramic vistas of the big Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Hathi Ghodi, Dronagiri, Trishul, Kamet, and more.
- Explore lush green fields, remote villages, and virgin forests along the trail.
- Varied Routes:
- Choose between the classic Curzon Trail from Ghat via Ramni or the Auli Bugyal route through Gorson Top.
- Experience diverse landscapes, from riverbanks to dense forests, depending on the chosen route.
- Cultural Exploration:
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Himalayan inhabitants as you pass through colorful villages.
- Encounter the unique living style and traditions of the Jhinjhi village.
- Wildlife Encounters:
- Possibility of spotting rare Himalayan flora and fauna along the trek, adding an element of wildlife exploration.
- Keep an eye out for leopard pugmarks or even a Himalayan black bear on your route.
- Pass Crossing:
- Crossing the Kuari Pass (Khal) at an elevation of 4265m, a fitting and rewarding conclusion to the trek.
- Traverse three lesser passes and five major rivers, including the Pindar, Kaliganga, Mandakini, Bheriganga, and Dhauliganga.
- Himalayan Peaks:
- Marvel at the spectacular views of iconic Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Kedarnath, Kamet’s pyramid, Nilkanth, Gori Parbat, Hathi Parbat, Badrinath, Dunagiri, Rishikot, Changabang, Kedarnath, Chowkhamba, and the legendary twin peaks of Nanda Devi.
- Camping Experience:
- Camp at scenic locations, including Ghunni, Jhinjhi, Pana, Dakhwani, and Tali, providing a close connection to nature.
- Wake up to breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and enjoy serene nights under the starlit sky.
- Cultural Towns:
- Explore the religious town of Rishikesh, known for its ashrams, temples, and the enchanting Ganges aarti.
- Experience the vibrant market town of serving as a supply hub for nearby villages.
- Well-Structured Itinerary:
- A thoughtfully planned itinerary ensures a balanced mix of trekking, cultural exploration, and leisure.
- Well-paced trekking days with strategic stops for acclimatization and enjoyment of the surroundings.
The Kuari Pass trek promises an unforgettable adventure, combining natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Day 1: Arrival in Rishikesh to Ghunni / Ramni (Drive)
- Distance: Approximately 275 km
- Travel Time: About 7-8 hours
Day 2: Ghunni / Ramni to Jhinjhi Village (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 13 km
- Trek Time: About 6-7 hours
Day 3: Jhinjhi to Pana Village (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 8 km
- Trek Time: About 4-5 hours
Day 4: Pana Village to Dakhwani (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 14 km
- Trek Time: About 5 hours
Day 5: Dakhwani to Kuari Pass to Tali (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 9 km
- Trek Time: About 5-6 hours
Day 6: Tali to Joshimath via Auli (Trek & Drive)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 17 km
- Trek Time: About 5-6 hours
Day 7: Joshimath to Rishikesh (Drive)
- Distance: Approximately 250 km
- Travel Time: About 8-9 hours
Day 1: Arrival in Rishikesh to Ghunni / Ramni (Drive)
- Distance: Approximately 275 km
- Travel Time: About 7-8 hours
- Begin the journey from Rishikesh early in the morning.
- Drive through picturesque landscapes, witnessing the changing scenery.
- Enroute, marvel at the confluences of Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnprayag, and Nandprayag.
- Reach Ghat, a charming village, in the evening.
- Check into the guest house/hotel, relax, and prepare for the trek.
Day 2: Ghunni / Ramni to Jhinjhi Village (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 13 km
- Trek Time: About 6-7 hours
- Trek from Ghunni or Ramni to Jhinjhi Village.
- Ascend to Vinayak Pass, enjoying breathtaking views of Nanda Ghunti and Chaukhamba.
- Traverse through Rhododendron forests and pasturing grounds.
- Descend to the picturesque Jhinjhi Village and camp overnight.
Day 3: Jhinjhi to Pana Village (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 8 km
- Trek Time: About 4-5 hours
- Descend through Jhinjhi village, crossing a high suspension bridge over Birahi Ganga.
- Climb steeply through beautiful Rhododendron forests.
- Reach the settlement at Pana and camp above the village for the night.
Day 4: Pana Village to Dakhwani (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 14 km
- Trek Time: About 5 hours
- Trek from Pana Village to Dakhwani.
- Pass through distinctive trails, ascend to a ridge, and enjoy panoramic views.
- Descend to the campsite at Dakhwani, savoring the serenity of the Himalayan wilderness.
Day 5: Dakhwani to Kuari Pass to Tali (Trek)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 9 km
- Trek Time: About 5-6 hours
- Early morning trek to the highlight – Kuari Pass.
- Marvel at sunrise and panoramic views of the greater Himalayas.
- Descend to Tali, camp amidst the scenic landscape, and enjoy views of Nanda Devi.
Day 6: Tali to Joshimath via Auli (Trek & Drive)
- Trek Distance: Approximately 17 km
- Trek Time: About 5-6 hours
- Trek to Auli, a picturesque meadow, with stunning Himalayan views.
- Board a Jeep to Joshimath, a lively market town.
- Check into a hotel, relax, and celebrate the successful completion of the trek.
Day 7: Joshimath to Rishikesh (Drive)
- Distance: Approximately 250 km
- Travel Time: About 8-9 hours
- Drive back to Rishikesh, enroute visit Rudraprayag.
- Check into the hotel, unwind, and reflect on the memorable journey.
- Share stories and experiences with fellow trekkers.
Day 8: Departure from Rishikesh
- Spend a leisure morning in Rishikesh.
- Explore local markets or participate in yoga sessions.
- Bid farewell to the enchanting town with memories of the Kuari Pass trek.
- Depart for Jolly Grant Airport or continue your travel adventures.
Note: The detailed itinerary provides specific distances and trek times, ensuring a clear understanding for a seamless and enjoyable trekking experience.
How to Reach Rishikesh:
By Air:
- The nearest airport to Rishikesh is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 35 kilometers away.
- Regular domestic flights connect Dehradun to major cities in India.
- From the airport, one can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach Rishikesh.
By Train:
- Rishikesh has its own railway station, well-connected to major cities in India.
- Haridwar, another major railway junction, is approximately 25 kilometers away from Rishikesh.
- Regular trains operate from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and others to Rishikesh.
- From the railway station, one can hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach the desired location.
By Road:
- Rishikesh is well-connected by a network of roads and can be easily reached by buses, taxis, or private vehicles.
- State-run buses and private buses operate from various cities, including Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun, to Rishikesh.
- The journey by road offers scenic views of the Himalayas and the Ganges River.
How to Reach Ghat (Starting Point of Kuari Pass Trek):
By Road:
- Ghat is accessible by road and can be reached from Rishikesh or Haridwar.
- One can hire a taxi or use public buses from Rishikesh to Ghat.
- The journey takes approximately 8-10 hours, depending on road conditions.
Trek Starting Point from Ghat:
- The trek typically begins from Selu Bagar, which is a 7 km drive from Ghat.
- Ponies and porters are arranged at Selu Bagar for the trek.
- Ghat is the gateway to the Kuari Pass trail, and the trekking adventure commences from this point.
Note: It’s advisable to check current travel conditions, weather, and road status before planning the journey, as these factors may impact the ease of travel to Rishikesh and the subsequent trek to Kuari Pass.
Booking and Payment:
- Booking Confirmation:
- Confirmation of the booking is subject to the availability of slots and resources.
- Payment Schedule:
- A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking to secure the spot.
- Full payment must be received before the commencement of the trek.
- Payment Methods:
- Accepted payment methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards,UPI, and any other specified means.
Cancellation and Refund Policy:
- Cancellation by Traveler:
- Cancellation requests must be made in writing.
- The deposit is non-refundable.
- Cancellation charges increase as the departure date approaches.
- Cancellation by the Travel Company:
- The travel company reserves the right to cancel or alter the trip due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, a suitable alternative or a refund will be provided.
Trek Itinerary and Inclusions:
- Itinerary Changes:
- The itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions, unforeseen events, or any other circumstances beyond the company’s control.
- Inclusions:
- Clearly outline what is included in the trek package, such as accommodation, meals, transportation, trekking permits, guide services, camping equipment, and more.
Health and Fitness:
- Physical Fitness:
- Acknowledge that trekking involves physical exertion and travelers should be in good health.
- It is the responsibility of the traveler to inform the company of any medical conditions or concerns.
- Altitude Sickness:
- Highlight the risk of altitude sickness and the importance of acclimatization during the trek.
Travel Insurance:
- Mandatory Insurance:
- It is mandatory for all travelers to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events.
Equipment and Gear:
- Personal Equipment:
- Provide a list of recommended personal trekking gear and equipment that travelers need to bring.
- Rental Services:
- Specify if the company provides equipment rental services and associated costs.
Code of Conduct:
- Responsible Trekking:
- Emphasize responsible trekking practices, including leaving no trace, respecting local cultures, and following the Leave No Trace principles.
Force Majeure:
- Unforeseen Events:
- Clarify the company’s stance in case of unforeseen events such as natural disasters, political unrest, or any circumstances beyond control.
Miscellaneous:
- Travel Documents:
- Travelers must possess valid identification and any necessary permits throughout the journey.
- Pre-departure Briefing:
- Highlight the importance of attending pre-departure briefings for safety instructions and trip details.
- Code of Conduct:
- Clearly state the expected behavior of travelers, respecting local customs, fellow trekkers, and the environment.
Legal Compliance:
- Legal Compliance:
- Ensure that all travelers comply with local laws and regulations during the trek.
These terms and conditions aim to provide clear expectations for both the travel company and the travelers, fostering a positive and organized experience throughout the Himalayan journey.
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