Kuari Pass Trek, Uttarakhand
One of the easier treks in Uttarakhand, perfect for beginners, the Kuari Pass Trek is also known as Curzon Trail as it was first covered by Lord Curzon in 1905. Accessible through a sleek goat track, the trek offers panoramic views of several peaks like Kamet, Gauri Parvat, Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Neelkanth, Haathi-Ghodi Parvat, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath.
Beyond this, the trek offers you a chance to walk amid birch, bamboo, oak, and conifer forests, pristine rivers, exotic wild species, peaceful ambiance, and velvety meadows. You also walk past Vinayak Pass and Tai top. Located in Nanda Devi Biosphere reserve, the trek begins from Dhak village, continues to Tali camp, and then to Gorsen Bugyal.
Listen to the roar of gushing rivers Mandakini, Kaliganga, and Dhauli Ganga. The experience of exploring this superb summer destination in India is going to be a memorable one.
Why Kuari Pass is Famous
- Stunning view of Nanda Devi, India’s second-highest peak
- A great trek for beginners and families
- Beautiful meadows of Gorson Bugyal
- Wildlife spotting: Himalayan Tahr, Monal, Musk Deer
- Historical significance (British exploration route)
- Amazing winter snow trek option
Day-Wise Itinerary For Kuari Pass Trek
| Day | Itinerary | Highlights / Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Haridwar / Rishikesh to Joshimath | Scenic drive |
| Day 2 | Joshimath to Dhak - Trek to Gulling | Forest trail, village walk |
| Day 3 | Gulling to Tali Forest Camp | Snow patches, mountain views |
| Day 4 | Tali to Kuari Pass and back to Tali | Summit day with peak views |
| Day 5 | Tali to Gorson Bugyal to Auli - Drive to Joshimath | Meadows and ski slopes |
| Day 6 | Joshimath to Rishikesh / Haridwar | Return journey |
The weather can shift the schedule slightly.
Nearby Attractions
Extend your journey with:
- Auli Ski Resort – India’s premier skiing destination
- Badrinath Temple – Sacred Dham pilgrimage site
- Valley of Flowers & Hemkund Sahib
- Kalpeshwar Temple – Panch Kedar pilgrimage
Nature and spirituality are both close by!
Kuari Pass Trek Cost (Approx.)
| Package Type | Inclusions | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Meals, camping, guide, permits | Rs. 8,500 – 12,500 per person |
| Premium | Transport, better gear & stay | Rs. 14,000 – 20,000 per person |
Rates depend on group size & season.
Essential Travel Tips
- Wear high-ankle trekking shoes
- Carry thermals and waterproof jackets
- Keep power bank, sunglasses & sunscreen
- Stay hydrated and walk slowly for acclimatization
- Mobile networks work only till Joshimath
Kuari Pass Trek Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Trek Duration | 5–6 Days |
| Maximum Altitude | 3,650 meters |
| Trek Distance | Approx. 26 km |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Starting Point | Dhak village (near Joshimath) |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June and October to February |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun |
| Nearest Railhead | Rishikesh / Haridwar |
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (March–June): Clear trails, greenery
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Best for snow lovers
- Avoid Monsoon (July–Sep): Slippery trails & landslides
How to Reach Joshimath
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Dehradun Airport - 275 km drive to Joshimath |
| By Rail | Haridwar/Rishikesh - Taxi/Bus available |
| By Road | Overnight buses from Delhi - Rishikesh - Joshimath |
From Joshimath, Dhak village is reached via a short drive.
Kuari Pass is one of the most scenic, beginner-friendly Himalayan treks, ideal for those seeking both adventure and breathtaking mountain views. From historic trails to panoramic high-altitude meadows, this trek guarantees a memorable escape into Uttarakhand’s natural paradise.
If you’re planning your first Himalayan summit experience, Kuari Pass is the perfect start!
