Jai Shiv Sambho
mountain panorama from the top
A Clear Day On Gorsons
wide panorama surrounds
Enroute Kuari Pass
an important acclimatization day
Panoramic Views From Pangarchula Summit
do you fee the high!
A Dreamy World
Khullara Campsite
Sheeps Grazing in Gorsons Buyal
a shepherd's paradise
Tali Lake With Mt Dronagiri
minimalistic world
Humps of Gorsons Bugyal
a dreamy landscape
We Only Organize Lesser Done, Uncrowded, Customizable & Personalized, Small Group Private Trekking Tours In The Himalayas
(click to read detailed route briefing, elevation graph, altitude time info and photos from the day)
Standard 8D/7N
8 Days7 NightsCamp: 7 NightsPrimary
Trek: 6 DaysDrive: 2 DaysPass Crossings: 1Contingency: 1 Days
ModerateMax 3730 mStart 1900 m
Route
Rishikesh → Ghunni → Jhinjhi → Pana → Dakhwani → Khullara → Khullara → Lower Gorsons → Rishikesh
Terrain
Alpine MeadowBoulder ZoneDense ForestHigh Altitude PassLake SideMeadow TrailScree ZoneSnow TrailSteep AscentSteep Descent
Suitable For
Everyone,Above 10 only
▲ Day 1Arrival Day
Arrive In Ghunni
Overnight In: Ghunni (1900m )
Accommodation: Camping/Homestay
Meals Included: Dessert, Dinner, Evening Tea Snacks, Hot Drinks, Soup
Cost Of Transport Included: YES
Quick Tips For The Day:
- Journey from Rishikesh to Ghat: The day begins with a picturesque 8-10 hour drive (around 210 km) from Rishikesh, the yoga capital, into the rugged Garhwal Himalayas.
- Scenic Alaknanda Valley Drive: The route takes you along the sacred Alaknanda River, offering breathtaking views and passing through scenic towns and holy confluences like Nandaprayag.
- Entry into Nandakini Valley: From Nandaprayag, the journey continues into the more secluded Nandakini valley, reaching the village of Ghat (approx. 1,400m), which serves as the traditional road head for the trek.
- Final Jeep Ride to Ghunni: A further 15 km jeep ride from Ghat takes you to the top of Ghunni village, passing through the smaller settlement of Selu Bagar (1,600m).
- Altitude Gain to Ghunni Village: The drive culminates at Ghunni village, a charming Garhwal settlement perched at an altitude of 1,900m (approximately 6,233 ft), which is your camping destination for the night.
- Preparation and Rest: The evening at Ghunni is for unwinding, acclimating to the higher altitude, and preparing for the first day of actual trekking the following morning.
- Day 1
- 445 - Rishikesh
- Day 1
- 1400 - Ghat
- Day 1
- 1600 - Selu Bagar
- Day 1
- 1900 - Ghunni
230Km, 8 -10hrs.▲ Day 2Trekking Day
From Ghunni (1900m ) To Jhinjhi (1800m ), Via - Chechni Vinayak Khal (2700m ) - 5 - 7 Hrs. 13 Kms
Overnight In: Jhinjhi (1800m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dessert, Dinner, Evening Tea Snacks, Hot Drinks, Lunch, Morning Tea, Soup
Quick Tips For The Day:
- Trek Start & Initial Ascent: The day starts with a trek from Ghunni (1,900m), involving a steep climb right from the village to gain significant altitude early in the day.
- Ascend to Chechni Vinayak Pass: The primary challenge is the ascent to the top of the Chechni Vinayak Khal pass, reaching an elevation of 2,700m (approximately 8,858 ft).
- Panoramic Himalayan Vistas: Upon reaching the pass, trekkers are rewarded with the first, magnificent panoramic views of major Himalayan peaks like Banderpoonch, Neelkanth, Chaukhamba, and Nandaghungti.
- First View of Kuari Pass: This viewpoint also offers the exciting first glimpse of the famous Kuari Pass, the trek's main objective.
- Acclimatization Advantage: This day serves as a crucial acclimatization opportunity; climbing high to 2,700m and then sleeping low at 1,800m aids the body in adjusting to the mountain environment.
- Descent to Jhinjhi Village: After soaking in the views, the trail descends through scenic areas like Sem Kharak to the remote and picturesque Jhinjhi village (1,800m), your camp for the night.
- Day 2
- 1900 - Ghunni
- Day 2
- 2700 - Chechni Vinayak Khal
- Day 2
- 1800 - Jhinjhi
13Km, 5 - 7hrs.▲ Day 3Trekking Day
From Jhinjhi (1800m ) To Pana (2460m ), Via - Kaliagad (2260m ) - 4 - 6 Hrs. 9 Kms
Overnight In: Pana (2460m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dessert, Dinner, Evening Tea Snacks, Hot Drinks, Lunch, Morning Tea, Soup
Quick Tips For The Day:
- Descent into Jhinjhi Village: The morning begins with a walk through the terraced fields and cultural landscape of Jhinjhi village, offering insights into the local Garhwali way of life.
- Crossing the Birahi Ganga River: The trail descends to the valley floor, leading to a high, picturesque suspension bridge (Lord Curzon's Bridge) that crosses the rushing waters of the Birahi Ganga river.
- Steep Ascent to the Ridge: After crossing the river, the route involves a steep, switchbacked climb through forests, gaining elevation rapidly towards the ridge line.
- Rhododendron Forests & Kaliagad: The path eventually eases into a gradual incline, winding through beautiful forests dominated by vibrant rhododendron trees and passing the small hamlet of Kaliagad (2,260m).
- Arrival at Pana Campsite: A final, short ascent brings trekkers to the campsite situated just above the scenic settlement of Pana village (2,460m).
- Beautiful Camp Location: The day's walk is rewarding, ending at a beautiful and tranquil high-altitude campsite offering splendid views for an overnight stay.
- Day 3
- 1800 - Jhinjhi
- Day 3
- 2260 - Kaliagad
- Day 3
- 2460 - Pana
9Km, 4 - 6hrs.▲ Day 4Trekking Day
From Pana (2460m ) To Dakhwani (3430m ), Via - Sartoli (2900m ), Falchwani (3230m ) - 5 - 7 Hrs. 13 Kms
Overnight In: Dakhwani (3430m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dessert, Dinner, Evening Tea Snacks, Hot Drinks, Lunch, Morning Tea, Soup
Quick Tips For The Day:
- Ascent Through Rhododendrons: The day begins with a steady climb from Pana (2,460m) through a dense rhododendron forest, crossing several false summits before reaching the ridge top.
- Exploring Sartoli Meadows: Emerging from the woods, the trail opens into the vast alpine meadow of Sartoli (2,900m), a serene summer grazing ground for local sheep and cattle.
- Gateway View of Kuari Pass: Sartoli serves as a premier vantage point where the Kuari Pass first begins to dominate the horizon, offering a clear target for the days ahead.
- Descent to Domabhitti Bridge: After traversing the meadow, the trail descends steeply to the valley floor to cross the bridge at Domabhitti over a rushing mountain stream.
- Demanding Switchback Climb: Post-river crossing, you will negotiate a series of rigorous switchbacks that test your endurance as you climb toward the tree line.
- Arriving at Dakhwani Camp: The journey culminates at the beautiful Dakhwani campsite (3,430m), a high-altitude pasture just below the pass, known for sightings of the Himalayan Monal.
- Day 4
- 2460 - Pana
- Day 4
- 2900 - Sartoli
- Day 4
- 3230 - Falchwani
- Day 4
- 3430 - Dakhwani
13Km, 5 - 7hrs.▲ Day 5Pass Crossing Day
Cross Kuari Pass And Reach Khullara - 5 - 7 Hrs. 10 Kms
Overnight In: Khullara (3400m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dessert, Dinner, Evening Tea Snacks, Hot Drinks, Lunch, Morning Tea, Soup
Quick Tips For The Day:
- Early Start for Summit Views: The day begins with an early morning start from Dakhwani to ensure clear weather and optimal visibility from the top of the pass.
- Ascending to the Tree Line: The trail climbs steeply through the last stretches of forested areas before breaking through the tree line into high alpine meadows.
- Final Push via Switchbacks: A series of demanding switchbacks marks the final ascent to the historic and revered Kuari Pass (3,740m / 12,270 ft).
- Grand Himalayan Panorama: The pass offers an iconic, 360-degree panorama of legendary peaks, including Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Dronagiri, and the majestic Nandaghungti.
- Crossing a Historic Pass: Trekkers follow in the footsteps of Lord Curzon, soaking in the achievement of crossing this famous high-altitude mountain pass.
- Descent to the Khullara Campsite: A relatively sharp descent from the pass leads quickly to the beautiful, vast meadows of Khullara (3,400m), an exceptional camping location for the night.
- Day 5
- 3430 - Dakhwani
- Day 5
- 3740 - Kuari Pass
- Day 5
- 3400 - Khullara
10Km, 5 - 7hrs.▲ Day 6Contingency Day
Explore, Rest or Prepare
Overnight In: Khullara (3400m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dessert, Dinner, Evening Tea Snacks, Hot Drinks, Lunch, Morning Tea, Soup
This is a planned reserved day to keep a window for bad weather and other contingencies. If unutilized, we can spend this day at any other campsite of our liking. The cost of this day is included in the trek package. If you decide to finish your trek instead of utilizing this reserved day, no money will be refunded as the local resources and other expenses will be paid in full as planned for initially
- Day 6
- 3400 - Khullara
- Day 6
- 3400 - Khullara
6Km, 3 - 5hrs.▲ Day 7Trekking Day
From Khullara (3400m ) To Lower Gorsons (3000m ), Via - Tali Lake (3320m ), Gorson Top (3700m ) - 5 - 7 Hrs. 12 Kms
Overnight In: Lower Gorsons (3000m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dessert, Dinner, Evening Tea Snacks, Hot Drinks, Lunch, Morning Tea, Soup
Quick Tips For The Day:
- Traversing to Gorsons Bugyal: The day's trail moves from Khullara towards the massive and picturesque Gorsons Bugyal (meadows), passing through the small shepherd settlement of Tali.
- Ascent to Gorsons Top: The route involves climbing to Gorsons Top (3,700m), a high vantage point offering some of the trek's most breathtaking and expansive panoramic views.
- One of Uttarakhand's Best Meadows: Trekkers spend significant time in the vast Gorsons Bugyal, renowned as one of Uttarakhand’s largest and most beautiful alpine pastures.
- Strategic Lower Gorsons Camp: Due to unpredictable water sources at the main Gorsons meadow, the campsite is strategically set up at Lower Gorsons (3,000m), ensuring a reliable water supply.
- Optional Early Exit Route: The itinerary offers flexibility: trekkers can choose an optional early descent to Dhak/Karchi village to end the trek, though this bypasses the Gorsons camping experience.
- Soaking in the Grandeur: This day is dedicated to soaking in the immense beauty and scale of the Gorsons landscape, which offers unmatched Himalayan vistas.
- Day 7
- 3400 - Khullara
- Day 7
- 3320 - Tali Lake
- Day 7
- 3700 - Gorson Top
- Day 7
- 3000 - Lower Gorsons
12Km, 5 - 7hrs.▲ Day 8Departure Day, Drive Day
From Lower Gorsons (3000m ) To Rishikesh (445m ), Via - Auli (2600m ) - 9 - 10 Hrs. 276 Kms
Accommodation: None
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea
Cost Of Transport Included: YES
Quick Tips For The Day:
- Early Start for a Long Journey Home: The day begins with an early 5:00 AM start to allow ample time for the long drive back to Rishikesh after the trek.
- Trek through the Famous Auli Slopes: The morning trek takes you through the internationally renowned winter ski destination of Auli, offering beautiful views of the surrounding slopes and artificial lake.
- Return to Rishikesh: The drive concludes in Rishikesh, marking the end of the unforgettable Lord Curzon's Kuari Pass adventure with Himalayan High.
- If you want, you can split this distance by breaking it in Rudraprayag or Srinagar and spending more time in Auli, but when you have camped in Lowwer Gorsons, Auli fades comparatively
- Day 8
- 3000 - Lower Gorsons
- Day 8
- 2600 - Auli
- Day 8
- 445 - Rishikesh
276Km, 9 - 10hrs.
Other Customizable Variations of the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek
Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek · With Pangarchula Summit - 9D/8N
9 Days8 NightsCamp: 7 NightsHotel: 1 Nights
Trek: 7 DaysDrive: 2 DaysPass Crossings: 1 DaysContingency: 1 Days
Moderate+Max 4575 mStart 1900 m
Route
Rishikesh → Ghunni → Jhinjhi → Pana → Dakhwani → Pangarchulla Base Camp → Khullara → Khullara → Lower Gorsons/Auli → Rishikesh
Suitable For
Experts,Above 18 only
We are NOT just limited to these options. These are our most commonly requested and well planned customizations.
If you have a different requirement, talk to us.
We only organize lesser done, uncrowded, customizable & personalized, small group private trekking tours in the Himalayas with full safety protocol in place. All customizations will be guided by this principle only.
A popular trek in:
click to explore more treks
Get More From this Region:
Get More Moderate+ Graded Itineraries
Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek - A Detailed Overview
Step into history on the legendary Lord Curzon’s Trail, a route explored in 1905 by the former Viceroy of British India. This premier trek is a visual symphony, offering front-row views of the Nanda Devi sanctuary, including iconic peaks like Chaukhamba (7,138m), Dronagiri (7,066m), and Trishul (7,120m).
The journey traverses "Kuari"—the virgin pass—winding through remote Garhwali villages and ancient oak forests to reach the vast, undulating meadows of Gorson Bugyal, arguably the most beautiful high-altitude pasture in the Himalayas. For those seeking a greater challenge, our customized variation includes the Pangarchula Peak Summit (4,575m), providing a 360-degree theater of snow-clad giants.
Designed for travelers who value serenity and premium expertise, this trail blends moderate challenge with the raw, spiritual beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas. Experience the pinnacle of customized trekking in 2026 with Himalayan High.
Top Reasons to Choose the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek
- Unrivaled Himalayan Panorama: Witness a breathtaking 360-degree theater of giants, including the twin peaks of Nanda Devi (7,816m), Chaukhamba, Trishul, and the majestic Dronagiri, visible from multiple high-vantage points.
- The Gorson Bugyal Experience: Camp in luxury within one of Asia’s most pristine high-altitude meadows, featuring undulating green humps and front-row views of the sunset hitting the Greater Himalayan range.
- A Legacy Trail: Walk the prestigious historical route pioneered by early British explorers like Lord Curzon and Sir Eric Shipton, connecting the remote Nandakini and Dhauliganga valleys.
- Strategic Acclimatization Profile: Our refined route ensures a safer journey with a "climb high, sleep low" strategy through Chechni Vinayak Khal (2,700m), maximizing your chances of a successful and comfortable crossing.
- Cultural Heart of Garhwal: Experience exclusive insights into the remote lifestyle of the upper Himalayas as you traverse the traditional stone-house villages of Ghunni, Jhinjhi, and Pana.
- Pristine Dark Sky Stargazing: High-altitude camps like Khullara and Pangarchula Base offer zero light pollution, providing a world-class canvas for astrophotography and witnessing the Milky Way.
- Five Sacred River Valleys: Gain a unique geographical perspective as you trek across the watersheds of five major Himalayan rivers: Birehi Ganga, Dhauliganga, Kali Ganga, Pindar, and Nandakini.
The "Virgin" History: Lord Curzon & Eric Shipton's Legacy
- Pioneering Spirit: The trail was popularized in 1905 by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of British India, who was an avid adventurer and explorer. The path quickly became a classic for early British mountaineers.
- A Route of Discovery: The trail follows a historically significant traverse through remote valleys, connecting the Nandakini and Dhauliganga river systems—a genuine exploration route rather than a modern tourist trail.
- Sir Eric Shipton's Footsteps: Famous British explorer and mountaineer Sir Eric Shipton also utilized this exact path, lending the route further prestige and a deep sense of mountaineering history.
- Meaning of 'Kuari': The word 'Kuari' translates to 'virgin' in Hindi, aptly describing the untouched, pristine nature of the pass and the surrounding remote Himalayan wilderness encountered along this specific heritage route.
Why we recommend climbing Pangarchula Peak with our Lord Curzon Kuari Pass Trek
- Additional Challenge: Climbing Pangarchula Peak is a more demanding endeavor than the Kuari Pass traverse alone, offering a significant physical challenge.
- Higher Altitude Perspective: Reaching the summit of Pangarchula provides even higher vantage points for viewing the surrounding Himalayan range.
- Summit Goal: For trekkers seeking a specific summit objective, Pangarchula offers a defined peak to aim for.
- Extended Experience: Including the climb to Pangarchula extends the duration and scope of the overall trekking experience.
Why Lord Curzon's Route is the best version of the Kuari Pass Trek
- Superior Acclimatization Profile: Unlike the quick ascent from Auli, this route follows a "climb high, sleep low" pattern. By crossing Chechni Vinayak Khal (2,700m) early on, your body adapts naturally, significantly reducing the risk of AMS before reaching the 3,740m pass.
- Authentic Cultural Immersion: This version is a journey through time, traversing remote stone-house villages like Jhinjhi and Pana. It offers exclusive exposure to the resilient Garhwali culture and ancient Himalayan lifestyles that modern road-head treks completely bypass.
- True Pass-Crossing Experience: Most modern "Kuari Pass treks" are simple "up and down" walks from one side. The Lord Curzon trail is a legitimate trans-Himalayan traverse, taking you from the Nandakini Valley to the Dhauliganga Valley, giving you the authentic satisfaction of crossing a mountain range.
- Deep Forest & Botanical Diversity: You trek through a spectacular range of Himalayan flora, from lush subtropical greenery near the riverbeds to ancient, moss-covered Oak and Rhododendron forests that lead into the high-altitude alpine meadows.
- Progressive Climbing Challenges: The trail offers a balanced mix of terrain, including steep switchback climbs, ridge walks, and river crossings. These technical sections provide a rewarding "big mountain" feel without being overwhelming for fit trekkers.
- Unrivaled Scenic Progression: By starting from the valley floor at Ghat, the Himalayan giants like Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba are gradually revealed. This build-up creates a much more dramatic and emotional impact when you finally reach the summit of the pass.
- Solitude and Serenity: Because the Ghat-to-Auli route is more demanding, it remains far less crowded than the standard routes. It ensures the "Premium Private" experience our guests expect, away from the commercial trekking traffic.
Altitude and Acclimatization Profile For The Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek
Altitude and Acclimatization Profile For The Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek
- Day 1
- D1Rishikesh
- Day 1
- Ghat
- Day 1
- Selu Bagar
- Day 2
- D2Ghunni
- Day 2
- Chechni Vinayak Khal
- Day 3
- D3Jhinjhi
- Day 3
- Kaliagad
- Day 4
- D4Pana
- Day 4
- Sartoli
- Day 4
- Falchwani
- Day 5
- D5Dakhwani
- Day 5
- Kuari Pass
- Day 6
- D6Khullara
- Day 7
- D7Khullara
- Day 7
- Tali Lake
- Day 7
- Gorson Top
- Day 8
- D8Lower Gorsons
- Day 8
- Auli
- Day 9
- Rishikesh
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to do the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek ?
Best months: Jan, Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
Is mobile network available on the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek ?
Quick answer: No - Only In Base Villages
Is internet available on the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek ?
Quick answer: No - Only In Base Villages
What type of trek is this?
Circuit Trek
In this type of trek, the entry point and exit point is different. You trek to reach a new point. Generally involves a pass crossing to enter a new valley.
What is the accommodation type on this trek?
Camping
Camping treks are those where nights are spent in tents pitched at designated campsites. Camps are chosen for safety and practicality (stable ground, water availability, weather exposure, and minimal ecological impact). This style offers the most raw mountain experience and flexible route planning, but comfort depends on terrain and conditions.
What kind of toilet facilities can I expect on this trek?
Toilet tents are used at campsites (dry-pit / cat-hole system as per terrain and local regulations). Some camps may have basic fixed toilets near village camps, but do not expect permanent facilities.
How is food served during the trek?
Fresh meals are cooked by the trek staff at camp. Food is served hot in a common dining setup (dining tent or open area). Meals are generally simple, nutritious, and high-energy; menu depends on package and logistics.
How is human waste managed on this trek?
Human waste is handled using toilet tents and designated pits/cat-holes at safe distance from water sources. Sites are selected and managed to reduce contamination; toilet paper and hygiene waste are carried out where feasible or disposed as per local guidelines.
How is food waste managed on this trek?
Food waste is minimized through planned portions. Biodegradable waste is disposed responsibly away from water sources or carried down where required. Leftovers are avoided; nothing is dumped into streams.
How is plastic waste handled on this trek?
Plastic waste is segregated and carried back to the roadhead for proper disposal. Trekkers are encouraged to use refillable bottles; single-use plastics are discouraged/controlled.
How do you follow Leave No Trace principles on this trek?
Camps are left cleaner than found. Waste is segregated and carried out, trails are respected, water sources are protected, and noise is kept low. No littering, no washing with soap near streams, and no disturbance to wildlife or local culture.
Is personal porterage / offloading available?
Yes, on horses.
Important notes:
- No duffel bags or suitcases are allowed for offloading.
- Only a trekking rucksack that is easier to carry by porters or on horses.
- Your bag will move from camp to camp and will not stay with you during the day’s trek.
- If you offload your rucksack, you must carry a day pack with essentials (rainwear, warm layer, medicines, food, and water).
- It must be booked at least 10 days before the trek start date so we can arrange porters/horses.
- It is either full offload or none. It cannot be arranged ad-hoc mid-trek or on a per-day basis.
What type of terrain can I expect on the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek ?
Alpine Meadow, Boulder Zone, Dense Forest, High Altitude Pass, Lake Side, Meadow Trail, Scree Zone, Snow Trail, Steep Ascent, Steep Descent
Is cloakroom / luggage storage available for the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek ?
Yes. Basic luggage storage is available.
Please note that this is not a secured locker facility.
Do not leave valuables, cash, jewelry, fragile items, or important documents.
Luggage is usually kept on a trust basis at the same hotel, homestay, or with known local contacts where we stay before and after the trek.
What kind of food is served on the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek ?
Indian, Nepalese, Garhwali
We serve a mix of continental-style trek meals as well as simple, freshly cooked home-style food.
The exact menu and style of meals may vary depending on the trek itinerary, region, and the package you are booked on.
Meal inclusions typically cover:
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)
- Two tea breaks daily (morning and evening)
- Soup in the evening
- Fresh salads where feasible
- Dessert on select days
- Hot night beverage / tonic before sleeping
Please note that detailed, day-wise meal information is mentioned in the respective day’s itinerary wherever applicable.
Where does the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek start?
Where does the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek end?
What is the grade / difficulty of the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek ?
Moderate+
This type of treks are bit more demanding than the moderate ones. It might involve few days of very long walks at higher altitude, or serious gradients, exposures, more remote or involves sleeping at higher altitudes for more days.
What is the duration of the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek ?
09 Days, 08 Nights, Rishikesh to Rishikesh
Is the Lord Curzons Kuari Pass Trek inside or near a national park?
Nanda Devi Outer Sanctuary
Friday, January 2, 2026 10:04:59 AM
© 2026 Himalayan High Altitude Treks And Expeditions Pvt. Ltd.
All rights reserved. Original content, itineraries, and media are proprietary and protected by applicable copyright laws.