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Kuari Pass Trek

The Lord Curzon Trail with Iconic Himalayan Views

Trek Overview

  • Trek Duration: 5 Nights / 6 Days
  • Trek Grade: Easy to Moderate
  • 🏔️ Max Altitude: 12,516 ft (Kuari Pass)
  • Trek Distance: 30–35 Km
  • 🌤️ Best Time: November to April
  • 🗺️ Region: Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand
  • 📍 Start Point: Joshimath
  • 🏁 End Point: Joshimath
  • 🧥 Cloakroom Facility: Available

INR 10,900

* Joshimath to Joshimath

Addons (Optional)

    • Transportation – INR 3,000 (* Rishikesh to Rishikesh)
    • Offloading-Bags – INR 1,800 (* Maximum weight 9kg/bag)

Terms & Conditions | Inclusions & Exclusions | Cancellation & Refunds

Registration Dates November 2025

08 Nov - 13 Nov Loading…

Registration Dates December 2025

Registration Dates January 2026

Registration Dates February 2026

Registration Dates March 2026

Registration Dates April 2026

Kuari Pass Trek, famously called the Curzon Trail, is one of the classic Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand, offering postcard-perfect views of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Chaukhamba, and Dronagiri peaks. This moderate trek is ideal for beginners and intermediate trekkers, combining serene oak and rhododendron forests, lush alpine meadows, and snow-clad trails into a truly immersive Himalayan experience. The trail passes through the buffer zone of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, allowing trekkers to witness rare flora and fauna of this UNESCO-protected region, while remaining outside the restricted core of Nanda Devi National Park. Along the route, trekkers encounter charming Garhwali villages, traditional stone cottages, and the warm hospitality of the local mountain communities. During winter, Kuari Pass transforms into a pristine snow paradise, making it one of the best snow treks in India. With its relatively short duration, manageable altitude gain, and rewarding panoramic summit views, Kuari Pass offers an unforgettable Himalayan adventure blending natural beauty, cultural encounters, and high-altitude trekking thrill.

Highlights

✅ Panoramic views of India’s highest peak Nanda Devi and surrounding Himalayan giants

✅ Walk through enchanting oak, deodar, and rhododendron forests

✅ Snow-covered meadows in winter that look like a white carpet stretching to the horizon

✅ Stunning sunrise and sunset views over Mt. Dronagiri

✅ A historic trail once traversed by Lord Curzon in the early 1900s

Itinerary

📅 Day 1: Arrival at Joshimath (6,700 ft)

• Drive from Rishikesh/Haridwar (approx. 9–10 hrs) along the Alaknanda River, passing picturesque Himalayan valleys and traditional Garhwali villages.
• Observe terraced fields, stone houses, and local temples en route, providing a glimpse into the culture and lifestyle of the region.
• Scenic views of snow-capped peaks like Nanda Devi and Kamet along the way.
• Overnight stay in a guesthouse at Joshimath with local cuisine experience and preparation briefing for the trek.

📅 Day 2: Joshimath to Dhak (drive) → Trek to Guling (9,600 ft)

• Drive 12 km from Joshimath to Dhak, the starting point of the trek.
• Begin trekking 6 km / 4–5 hrs through charming mountain villages, where locals may be seen tending to herds of cows and goats.
• Trail winds through pine, oak, and rhododendron forests, with the first glimpses of snow-clad peaks in the distance.
• Encounter traditional Garhwali stone cottages and prayer flags fluttering along the trail.
• Moderate ascent to Guling, with panoramic views of the Mandakini Valley and surrounding peaks.
• Camp at Guling amidst serene meadows, perfect for stargazing and experiencing the Himalayan wilderness.

📅 Day 3: Guling to Tali (11,070 ft)

• Trek 6 km / 5 hrs ascending gradually through dense oak, rhododendron, and birch forests, with seasonal wildflowers along the trail.
• Pass through small streams and ridges, offering sweeping views of snow peaks like Nanda Ghunti and Chaukhamba.
• Observe Himalayan flora including medicinal herbs and a variety of birds such as Himalayan monal and woodpeckers.
• Cultural glimpses of shepherds and their temporary huts along the way.
• Reach Tali meadow, a beautiful alpine pasture with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
• Camp at Tali with optional short nature walks in the evening to explore the flora and fauna.

📅 Day 4: Tali to Kuari Pass (12,516 ft) → Return to Tali

• Trek 11 km / 7–8 hrs, ascending through a mix of alpine meadows, snow patches (depending on season), and rocky ridges.
• Cross sparkling streams, rhododendron-dotted slopes, and open meadows with grazing yaks.
• Reach Kuari Pass, where you are rewarded with a stunning 360° view of the Himalayan giants: Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Chaukhamba, and Hathi Parvat.
• Experience the thrill of high-altitude trekking with gradual ascents and some moderate climbs; descend carefully back to Tali.
• Overnight stay at Tali campsite with evening stories of local folklore and the mountain environment.

📅 Day 5: Tali to Auli → Drive to Joshimath

• Trek 8 km / 5 hrs through Gorson Meadows, a vast expanse of alpine grasslands dotted with wildflowers and offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.
• Gentle ascent and descent through trails lined with rhododendron shrubs and pine forests.
• Witness shepherds tending to their flocks and nomadic life in high-altitude pastures.
• Reach Auli, the famous ski destination, with breathtaking vistas of Nanda Devi and surrounding peaks.
• Drive 12 km down to Joshimath for an overnight stay, reflecting on the trek and enjoying local Garhwali cuisine.

📅 Day 6: Departure from Joshimath

• Drive back to Rishikesh/Haridwar, passing through terraced fields, alpine forests, and scenic valleys.
• The journey offers a final glimpse of the majestic Himalayan ranges and the lush Mandakini Valley.
• Trip concludes with memories of Kuari Pass, its diverse landscapes, local culture, and natural beauty.

Map

How to reach

✈️ Air: Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 270 km from Joshimath).

🚆 Train: Nearest major railway station: Haridwar (approx. 280 km from Joshimath).

🛣️ Road: Regular buses and shared cabs available from Rishikesh/Haridwar to Joshimath (9–10 hrs).

🗺️ Travel Tip: Arrive a day early in Joshimath for acclimatization and to buffer against delays on mountain roads.

Did you know?

Kuari Pass was first popularized by Lord Curzon in 1905, giving it the nickname 'Curzon Trail'.
Kuari Pass falls within the buffer zone of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While trekkers don’t enter the restricted core of Nanda Devi National Park, the trail still offers glimpses of its unique alpine ecosystem.
The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is home to rare species like the Himalayan musk deer, snow leopard, and Himalayan monal (the state bird of Uttarakhand).
On clear days, you can spot India’s highest peak Nanda Devi (25,643 ft) and as many as 12 other 7,000m summits.
Gorson Bugyal, a vast alpine meadow en route, turns into a ski paradise in winter.
Local folklore says Kuari Pass was once a traditional shepherd’s route connecting villages across the valleys.

Packing list

For a comprehensive packing list, download the PDF below: Download Packing List

FAQs

  • This trek is suitable for beginners and intermediate trekkers. With gentle ascents and well-defined trails, it is ideal for first-time trekkers looking to experience the Garhwal Himalayas.
  • The best time is April to June and September to November, when the meadows are lush, rhododendrons bloom, and snow-capped peaks like Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Chaukhamba are clearly visible.
  • Essentials include sturdy trekking shoes, layered clothing, rain jacket, 40–50L backpack, thermal wear, trekking poles, and a headlamp. A detailed packing list is available in the PDF above.
  • Yes, overnight camping is organized at scenic spots along the trek route, with tents, bedding, and meals provided.
  • Network coverage is limited. Airtel and BSNL may work intermittently, but connectivity is generally unreliable.
  • No special permits are required for Kuari Pass, as it is within the forest areas of Uttarakhand. The trek operator manages all camping arrangements and permissions.
  • Kuari Pass offers spectacular views of the Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba peaks, pristine forests, and colorful meadows. The trek combines easy gradients with incredible Himalayan panoramas, making it a favorite for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.

How Our Treks Are More Than Just a Trek

Every journey with us is carefully crafted for a deeply personal mountain experience.

Not Just a Trek — A Journey That Stays With You

Every trail we walk is a carefully chosen path into the heart of the Himalayas — not just to witness their grandeur, but to feel them under your skin and soul. Our treks are designed not as bucket list checkmarks, but as life-affirming journeys. At Planethimalayas, we believe a mountain journey is deeply personal — and that belief runs through everything we do.

Individual Care, Every Step of the Way

We keep our groups small and intimate so we can focus on you — your pace, your concerns, your joy. From pre-trek guidance to trail-side support, our leaders walk with intention, offering safety and attention without intrusion. It’s this deep care that turns strangers into friends and walks into memories.

Built on Genuine Love for the Himalayas

We don’t just operate in the Himalayas — we live and breathe them. From respecting mountain communities to following Leave No Trace ethics, our treks are shaped by humility and care. With Planethimalayas, your trek becomes a way of giving back to the mountains that give us so much.

Why Choose Us

Experience the difference of trekking with genuine mountain experts who truly care.

Trek Leader & Guide

Led by certified mountaineers with wilderness first aid training, ensuring your safety and confidence at every step.

Cook & Support Staff

Our mountain crew comprises local experts who bring unmatched experience, warmth, and deep knowledge of the region.

Small Group Size

We cap our group departures at just 8 trekkers — ensuring individual attention, deeper connections, and better trail discipline.

Safety Standards

From camping to technical gear, we use only certified, high-altitude-tested equipment suited for extreme Himalayan conditions.

24×7 Online Support

We're always available — before, during, or after your trek. Reach out anytime, and you'll always hear back from a real human.

We Care for the Mountains

We strictly follow Leave No Trace ethics. Limited group sizes and mindful practices help protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.