Trek Overview
Kuari Pass, famously explored by Lord Curzon, is a classic Himalayan trek that begins from Joshimath in Uttarakhand. Standing tall at about 4,264 meters, the pass offers a grand view of some of India’s most iconic peaks — Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Trishul, Kamet, and Dronagiri, among others. The trail winds through enchanting oak, rhododendron, and conifer forests, where trekkers might spot traces of wildlife like the Himalayan black bear or leopard pugmarks.
From the summit, one can witness a panoramic skyline of the Garhwal Himalayas and the glistening Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers below. Known as one of the most scenic moderate treks in India, the Kuari Pass trail perfectly blends natural beauty, adventure, and history.
Quick Itinerary
Day 1: Rishikesh to Karchi village
- Drive Distance: 253.5 km (approx. 9-10 hrs)
- Route: Scenic drive via Devprayag, and Karnaprayag, Joshimath
- Stay: Guesthouse in Karchi village
Karchi village to Gulling Top
- Trek Distance: 5.5 km (approx. 4-5 hrs.)
- Highlights: Trek through dense oak and rhododendron forests
- Stay: Camping at Gulling Top
Day 3: Gulling Top to Khulara
- Trek Distance: 5.5 km (approx. 4-5 hrs.)
- Highlights: Panoramic Himalayan views, peaceful forest trails
- Stay: Camping at Khulara
Day 4: Khulara to Kuari Pass Submit and back to Gulling
- Trek Distance: 11.5 km (approx. 7-8 hrs.)
- Highlights: Stunning views of Mt. Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Hathi - Ghoda Peaks
- Stay: Camping at Gulling
Day 5: Karchi Village to Rishikesh
- Drive Distance: 253.5 km (approx. 9-10 hrs)
- Route: Scenic return journey via Rishikesh
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 - Rishikesh to Karchi Village (Distance: 253.5 km, 9–10 hrs)
The journey begins early in the morning from Rishikesh, heading towards the quaint mountain hamlet of Karchi Village — the starting point of your Kuari Pass adventure. The drive is long yet incredibly scenic, tracing the route along the Alaknanda River and passing through sacred confluences and charming mountain towns such as Devprayag, Karnaprayag, and Joshimath.
As you wind through the rugged Himalayan roads, enjoy breathtaking views of deep valleys, emerald rivers, and forested slopes. Upon reaching Karchi Village by evening, check into a cozy guesthouse surrounded by terraced fields and oak forests. After dinner, rest well to prepare for the trek ahead.
Stay: Guesthouse in Karchi Village
Day 2 - Karchi Village to Gulling Top (Trek Distance: 5.5 km, 4–5 hrs)
Today marks the first day of trekking! After a hearty breakfast, begin your ascent from Karchi Village towards Gulling Top. The trail gradually climbs through dense forests of oak, maple, and rhododendron, filling the air with the fresh scent of the mountains.
Along the way, you may spot Himalayan birds and enjoy glimpses of snow-capped peaks peeking through the trees. The trek offers an immersive experience in nature’s tranquility, with occasional clearings providing rest points and beautiful vistas.
By afternoon, you’ll reach Gulling Top — a serene campsite surrounded by alpine meadows. Enjoy a hot meal under the open sky as the sunset paints the peaks in golden hues.
Stay: Camping at Gulling Top
Day 3 - Gulling Top to Khulara (Trek Distance: 5.5 km, 4–5 hrs)
After breakfast, continue your trek toward Khulara. The trail today is a gentle yet rewarding climb, passing through tranquil forest stretches and vast meadows with panoramic Himalayan views.
As you ascend, the scenery opens up to reveal glimpses of snow-draped peaks like Dronagiri in the distance. The serene trail and cool mountain breeze make this leg of the journey especially refreshing and peaceful.
Arrive at the Khulara campsite by afternoon, where you can relax, soak in the surroundings, and watch the sunset over the mountain ranges.
Stay: Camping at Khulara
Day 4 - Khulara to Kuari Pass Summit and back to Gulling (Trek Distance: 11.5 km, 7–8 hrs)
Today is the most exciting and challenging day of the trek — the summit to the Kuari Pass! Start early to make the most of the day and witness some of the most breathtaking views the Himalayas have to offer.
The trail ascends steadily through alpine meadows, eventually leading to the iconic Kuari Pass (12,516 ft). From the top, enjoy a panoramic view of the majestic Mt. Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Hathi-Ghoda, and several other peaks that dominate the skyline.
Spend some time at the summit soaking in the awe-inspiring scenery and taking photographs before beginning your descent back to Gulling. The trek back is equally beautiful, with a gradual downhill route through open meadows and forest trails.
Stay: Camping at Gulling
Day 5 - Gulling to Karchi Village and drive to Rishikesh (Distance: 253.5 km, 9–10 hrs)
After breakfast, descend from Gulling to Karchi Village — marking the end of your trekking journey. Bid farewell to the mountains and begin your scenic drive back to Rishikesh.
The return route offers one last chance to enjoy the beautiful Himalayan landscapes, rivers, and villages you passed earlier. Reflect on the memories of your adventure-filled trek as you make your way back to Rishikesh by evening.
Stay: Trip ends on arrival in Rishikesh
Inclusion / Exclusion
Inclusions:
- Accommodation (Guest house, Home stay, Camping).
- Meals while on trek (Veg. + Egg).
- Trek equipment (Sleeping bag, mattress, kitchen & dining tent, crampon, utensils, tent).
- All necessary permits and entry fees.
- First aid medical kits, stretcher, and oxygen cylinder.
- Mountaineering qualified & professional trek leader, guide, and support staff.
Exclusions:
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Food during the transit.
- Insurance.
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the inclusions.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Change/Cancellation of Booking by the Participant
Process
The cancellation process is completely automated. Please log in to your Mountain Hike account and follow the instructions on your dashboard. You can choose between Instant Refund or Cash Refund as per the policy below.
Replacement of Participants
Participants can be replaced through the Mountain Hike dashboard if the booking status is “Paid” and at least 5 days remain before departure. If you face issues, email themountainhike@gmail.com with a screenshot of the error. The new participant must submit a signed undertaking form.
Note: Any Volvo/Train transport booked for the original participant will be automatically canceled and is non-transferable.
Cash Refund Policy
Cash refunds apply only for bookings made without promotional codes or vouchers. Refund amounts will be deducted as follows:
- 30+ days before departure: 5% deduction
- 15-30 days before departure: 50% deduction
- Less than 15 days before departure: No Refund
Refunds will be processed to the original payment method and are based on the Base Price of the trek, excluding transport, insurance, and portage fees.
Voucher Refund Policy
Voucher refunds are available for all types of bookings, including promotional offers. Refund amounts will be:
- 5+ days before departure: No deduction
- Less than 5 days: No Refund
Vouchers are valid for 10 months from the date of issue. The refunded voucher amount does not include service tax paid during the original booking.
Cancellation or Change Initiated by Mountain Hike
We reserve the right to modify or cancel an event due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, natural disasters, low participation, or any force majeure events. If this occurs, you will be given the choice of:
- A replacement event of equivalent value
- A full refund (processed as a voucher valid for 6 months)
If cancellation is due to low participation, participants can choose between a cash refund or a voucher.
Changes/Cancellation After Departure
Due to Force Majeure
No refund will be provided for cancellations due to force majeure after departure.
Other Reasons
If cancellations occur for reasons other than force majeure, we will attempt to arrange alternative services or provide a refund in the form of a 6-month voucher (or cash, if preferred).
Participant Dropout During the Event
No refund will be provided if a participant voluntarily drops out of the trek. Any additional costs incurred for return arrangements will be borne by the participant.
Early Return from an Event
If a participant returns early due to force majeure or an event ending sooner than planned, additional expenses (extra nights, transport) must be covered by the participant.
Emergency Evacuation
In case of a medical emergency, we will arrange evacuation to the nearest hospital. Any costs for porters, vehicles, ambulance services, or hospitalization must be covered by the participant.