Kuari Pass Trek

Joshimath to Dhak and Trek to Gulling Top

Arrival in Joshimath:

• Arrive in Joshimath, the base camp for the Kuari Pass trek.

Hire a Taxi:

• Hire a taxi or shared cab from Joshimath to Dhak (12 km / 7.5 miles).

• Duration: Approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on road conditions.

Trek from Dhak to Gulling:

• Begin your trek towards the Gulling camp viewpoint upon arrival in Dhak.

• Distance: Approximately 6 km.

• Trek Duration: Around 4-5 hours, depending on your pace.

Enjoy Scenic Views:

• Experience stunning views of mountains, forests, and valleys along the trail.

• Reach the Gulling camp viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the Himalayan landscape.

Trek from Gulling Top to Tali Forest Camp:

• Start Time: Wake up early to prepare for the trek.

• Duration: 5 hours of trekking over a distance of 5.5 km.

• Elevation: Trekking to an altitude of 3,350m (11,000ft).

Trail Overview:

• Initial Climb: Easier ascent compared to previous days, with smooth slopes.

• First Stop: Arrive at an open green area with stunning views of snow-capped mountains (approximately 20 minutes into the hike).

• Rest: Take a short break to enjoy the scenery.

Continue Trekking:

• Cross a small stream and enter a mixed forest featuring rhododendrons, oaks, and walnuts.

• If trekking in late March, look for blooming white and pink rhododendrons.

Forest Details:

• The area may be blanketed in snow during winter, enhancing the beauty of the coniferous forests.

Highlights Along the Route:

• Views of Hathi-Ghori peaks and Dronagiri (located to the right).

Arrival:

• Reach Tali Forest Camp, where the second camp is set up amidst the stunning forest backdrop.

Tali Forest Camp to Kuari Pass:

• Altitude: 3,800m (12,500ft)

• Distance: 7-10 km

• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours

• Depart from Tali Forest Camp, starting the ascent towards Khullara Summit.

• Begin with a moderate climb of 3.5 km.

• Cross a broken bridge and frozen streams, especially challenging in winter.

• Gradually climb a ridge to the highest point.

• Take a break at Jhandi Dhar (2-hour rest).

• Enjoy a packed lunch mid-trek or at the temple at the base of Kuari High Pass.

Summit Day:

• Duration: 10-11 hours depending on group speed.

• Ensure enough water for the entire hike (no water sources en route).

Reach the summit for breathtaking views of numerous Garhwal peaks:

• Kedarnath Peak

• Kedar Dome

• Chaukhamba

• Balakun

• Neel Kantha

• Mukut Parvat

• Kamet

• Abhi Gamin

• Mana I

• Ghori Parvat

• Hathi Parvat

• Dronagiri

• Kalanka

• Changabang

• Nanda Devi

• Nanda Ghunti

Remember to tighten trekking shoes properly.

High-quality crampons are provided; gaiters can be bought in Joshimath if needed.

Gorson Bugyal to Auli and Joshimath:

• Start Point: Begin the day at Tali Forest Camp.

Trek to Gorson Bugyal:

• Trek through picturesque snow-covered valleys.

• Enjoy the flat terrain, making it an easy hike.

Gorson Bugyal:

• Explore the stunning bugyals (meadows) in Gorson.

• Take in the serene winter landscape, with potential snowfalls enhancing the scenery.

Return to Auli:

• Head back to Auli, the skiing capital of India.

• Optional: If visiting in winter, skiing opportunities may be available.

Cable-Car Ride:

• Enjoy a scenic cable car ride from Auli to Joshimath.

• Experience breathtaking views of the gentle snow-covered slopes and pine forests.

End Point: Arrive in Joshimath, at an altitude of 2,050m (6,750ft).

Departure from Joshimath to Rishikesh:

• Departure: 6:00 AM from Joshimath

• Travel Duration: Approximately 14 hours

• Arrival: 8:00 PM in Rishikesh

Route Highlights:

• Scenic drive through the Himalayas

• Panoramic views of lush valleys and snow-capped peaks

• Charming villages along the way

• Opportunities to spot rushing rivers and Himalayan wildlife

Experience: A relaxing journey filled with breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty