UTTARAKHAND KUARI PASS TREKKING GUIDE
The Kuari Pass trek, one of the most captivating trekking trails in the Indian Himalayan region, draws thousands of adventure seekers from all over the world. This impressive trek is thought to have been explored by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India, and is thus known as the Lord Curzon Trek. Kuari Pass Trek is nestled beautifully in the Garhwal Himalaya range, just a short distance from Auli, an incredible skiing destination.
This 4 to 6 day easy-moderate trek begins in Tapovan, a charming village near Joshimath, the pilgrim and trekker hub.
BEST TIME TO VISIT KUARI PASS TREK
If you go for Kuari Pass in the winter, there is an added bonus. It is one of the Himalayan treks that can be done in the winter, when most mountain passes in the Himalayas are covered in snow. Despite not crossing the pass in the traditional manner, you trek all the way to the summit to take in the breathtaking views.
The trip in the snow, on the other hand, is an adventure in and of itself. The flawlessly constructed woodlands’ snowy floor, snowflakes falling on Oak leaves atop a white carpet instantly transports you to a paradise that would make Santa Claus jealous.
WHERE IS THE KUARI PASS?
Kuari Pass is located near Joshimath in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. It is a popular destination for Himalayan mountaineering expeditions, trekking trails, and pilgrims. Joshimath, also known as Jyotirmath, is a sacred site in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is Lord Badri’s winter residence, and one of the four cardinal institutions established in the 8th century by the great Indian philosopher Adi Shankaracharya.
HOW TO GET READY FOR THE KUARI PASS TREK
If you haven’t prepared for hard core physical activity or a high level of fitness, trekking is extremely difficult. Let’s face it: it’s a lot of work. Sweat is the price of an incredible journey. Sore calves and aching quads are honorific designations, as are blisters and missing toes.
In exchange, you get some of the most pristine, untouched, and breathtaking scenery on the planet. The better prepared you are for a long hike, the easier it will be.
HOW TO GET TO THE KUARI PASS TREK
This is a step-by-step guide to reaching Kuari Pass. Rely solely on this information to plan your trip. You must first travel to Haridwar/Rishikesh. You can use the following information to do so:
BY AIR
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport. This is approximately 21 kilometres from Rishikesh city. Flights to Dehradun Airport are available from all states, and tickets can be purchased online. These are simple and straightforward methods to use, and they will save you time. Taxis are available from the airport to Rishikesh at all times for Rs. 1000* one-way.
BY TRAIN
There are few trains that run 7 days a week between New Delhi and Haridwar Jn.
● The Haridwar Mail (19031)
● Dehradun Express (19019)
● Dehradun Shatabdi (12017)
● Utkal Express (18477)
● Dehradun Janshatabdi (12055)
BY CAR
You can take a bus from Delhi to Rishikesh; catch it at (Delhi) Kashmiri Gate ISBT; reserved seats are recommended. There are several buses that run from there.
After arriving, you will proceed to Joshimath and then to Dhak village. You can either book a cab from there or book your trek with HRI and they will arrange everything for you.
THE HISTORY OF THE KUARI PASS TREK
This incredible trek became famous after Bill Tilman, Eric Shipton, and Lord Curzon used it in their pioneering explorations of the region in 1905. This is why the trek is also known as the Lord Curzon trek, and it is believed that the trail was improved specifically for his trekking expedition, and it is very popular among American and European travellers.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE KUARI PASS TREK
Views of mighty mountain peaks such as Dronagiri, Chaukhamba, Chitrakantha, and Tali top are breathtaking.
The trail winds through dense conifer, oak, rhododendron, and birch forests. As a result, completing the kuari pass trek distance trek allows you to witness exotic wildlife experiences such as Himalayan Black Bear, leopard pugmarks, and a wide variety of bird species.
This trek also provides spectacular views of the rivers Bhagirathi and Alaknanda.
A trekker can also enjoy the soul-calming views of Nanda Devi, the world’s second-highest mountain peak.