QUICK FACTS
Trek Start & End Location - Rishikesh
Trek Report Time - 06:00 AM on Day 1
Trek Duration - 6 Days/ 5 Nights
Trek Difficulty - Moderate (suitable for beginners with good fitness)
Trek Distance - Approx. 22 km round-trip from Karchi, Joshimath
Trek Height - 3,650 meters (Kuari Pass)
TREK HIGHLIGHTS
Stunning views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Hathi Ghori, and Dronagiri surrounded by snow-covered landscapes.
Snow-dusted meadows, forests, and trails create a magical winter landscape.
Snow adds extra difficulty, with slippery slopes, frozen streams, and icy paths for a more exciting adventure.
Camping in snow offers a unique, peaceful experience under the stars at spots like Tali and Kuari Pass.
Spot Himalayan monals, musk deer, and other high-altitude species amidst the winter environment.
TREK OVERVIEW
The Kuari Pass trek in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas offers stunning views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Chaukhamba. Starting from Joshimath, the trek passes through dense oak and rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and traditional villages, providing a unique look into the local Garhwali culture.
At 3,650 meters (11,975 feet), Kuari Pass rewards trekkers with sweeping Himalayan vistas. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned trekkers, it’s accessible year-round: from December to March for snow-covered landscapes, and April to November for clear skies and greenery. Kuari Pass is a must-visit for those seeking natural beauty and adventure.
DAY WISE ITINERARY
Day 1 - Rishikesh to Karchi Village (Drive)
- Distance: 260 km
- Duration: 8–9 hours by road
- Altitude: 2,100 meters
- Temperature: 12°C to 25°C
- Meals Included: Dinner at Karchi Village
Start your journey early in the morning from Rishikesh, driving through scenic mountain roads alongside the
Alaknanda and Dhauli Ganga rivers. En route, you will pass iconic locations such as
Devprayag—the sacred confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers—and the charming town of
Srinagar.
By evening, arrive at the remote and peaceful Karchi Village. After reaching, settle into your tents and relax
amidst the serene Himalayan surroundings. Enjoy a warm, hearty dinner under the star-lit sky before settling in for an
overnight stay in tents.
Day 2 - Karchi Village to Akhorgheeta (Trek)
- Altitude: 2,800 meters
- Trek Distance: 9 km
- Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
- Temperature: 10°C to 18°C
- Meals Included: Breakfast at camp, hot lunch, dinner at camp
After a nutritious breakfast, begin your trek from Karchi Village, walking through dense forests and
beautiful alpine meadows. The trail offers occasional glimpses of distant Himalayan peaks and sweeping views of the
serene valley below.
After a fulfilling day of trekking, arrive at the scenic Akhorgheeta campsite. Take time to unwind,
enjoy a hot, freshly prepared meal, and soak in the tranquil mountain atmosphere. Dinner and overnight stay will be
in tents.
Day 3 - Akhorgheeta to Khullara (Trek)
- Altitude: 3,350 meters
- Trek Distance: 8 km
- Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
- Temperature: 5°C to 15°C
- Meals Included: Breakfast at camp, hot lunch, dinner at camp
Begin your trek from Akhorgheeta and gradually ascend toward Khullara, passing through
enchanting oak and rhododendron forests. The trail is rich with pristine natural beauty and offers a peaceful trekking
experience.
As you approach Khullara, the landscape opens into vast alpine meadows, rewarding you with spectacular
views of iconic Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi and Dronagiri. Settle into camp upon
arrival and enjoy a warm, freshly prepared dinner. Overnight stay will be in tents.
Day 4 - Khullara to Kuari Pass and back to Khullara (Trek)
- Altitude: 3,650 meters (Kuari Pass)
- Trek Distance: 12 km (round trip)
- Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
- Temperature: 0°C to 10°C
- Meals Included: Breakfast at camp, packed lunch for the day, dinner at camp
Rise early for a hearty breakfast and prepare for the most exciting day of the trek — the ascent to
Kuari Pass. Also known as the historic "Lord Curzon Trail", this route rewards trekkers
with sweeping views of some of the Himalaya’s grandest peaks.
From the pass, take in breathtaking panoramas of legendary summits such as Nanda Devi,
Trishul, and Kamet. Enjoy your packed lunch at the top while soaking in the awe-inspiring
alpine scenery before retracing your steps back to Khullara.
Day 5 - Khullara to Karchi Village (Trek)
- Altitude: 2,100 meters (Karchi Village)
- Trek Distance: 11 km
- Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
- Temperature: 10°C to 25°C
- Meals Included: Breakfast at camp, hot/packed lunch during trek
After an early breakfast, begin your descent from Khullara to Karchi Village.
The downhill trek offers fresh perspectives of the surrounding landscapes, forests, and valleys, making for
a relaxed and reflective walking experience.
Reach Karchi Village by afternoon. Upon arrival, take some time to freshen up and rest after
completing the trekking portion of your journey. Overnight stay will be arranged at or near the village.
Day 6 - Karchi Village to Rishikesh (Drive)
- Drive Distance: 260 km
- Drive Duration: 8–9 hours
- Temperature: 10°C to 25°C
- Meals Included: Dinner on the way (self-arranged)
After breakfast, depart from Karchi Village for the return journey to Rishikesh.
The scenic drive takes you through beautiful river valleys and famous confluences, offering one last glimpse of
the Himalayan landscapes.
Arrive in Rishikesh by late evening, marking the end of your unforgettable
Kuari Pass Trek experience.
WE ASSURE YOU OF OUR BEST SERVICE
SEND ENQUIRYINCLUDES/ EXCLUDES
Price Includes
- Meals - Starts from first day dinner to fifth day breakfast (veg only)
- Stay - 3 nights camping style dome tents and 2 nights guesthouse stay (triple/quad sharing basis)
- Technical Gears - Crampons during snow conditions
- Guide - Accompany of expert and certified hiking guide (Group Guide)
- Transfers - To-and-fro transportation between Rishikesh and Karchi Village.
Price Excludes
- Goods & Services Tax (GST) as applicable, charged extra
- Any kind of tips, gratuities, or donations to trekking staff
- Any personal or private expenses
- Costs arising due to natural calamities, weather conditions, roadblocks, or government restrictions
- Medical expenses, evacuation, or rescue costs
- Any service not explicitly mentioned under Inclusions
HOW TO REACH
To reach the starting point of the Kuari Pass Trek at Karchi Village, follow the step-by-step guide below:
Reaching Rishikesh
By Air
- The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, located about 20 km from Rishikesh.
- Regular flights operate from Delhi and other major cities.
- From the airport, taxis and buses are available to Rishikesh, taking approximately 30–45 minutes.
By Train
- Rishikesh Railway Station has limited direct train connectivity.
- An alternative is Haridwar Railway Station, located about 25 km from Rishikesh.
- Haridwar is well connected to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.
- From Haridwar, buses and taxis take around 45 minutes to reach Rishikesh.
By Bus
- Overnight buses are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Delhi.
- The journey takes approximately 5–6 hours.
- State transport and private Volvo buses run frequently, especially during peak trekking season.
Rishikesh to Karchi Village
By Pre-Booked Transport
- MadTrek arranges transportation for participants from Rishikesh to Karchi Village.
- Distance: Approximately 260 km
- Travel Time: Around 8–9 hours by road
- The scenic route passes through river valleys and notable locations such as
Devprayag (confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda Rivers) and
Srinagar, offering beautiful mountain views.
THINGS TO CARRY
- Clothing: Base Layer (Thermal Innerwear), Mid Layer (Fleece/Down), Outer Layer (Windproof/Waterproof), Trekking Pants, Insulated Jacket, Thermal Gloves, Woolen Hat/Beanie, Balaclava/Face Mask, Warm Socks, Gaiters, Sunglasses.
- Footwear: Waterproof Trekking Boots, Camp Shoes.
- Sleeping Gear: Sleeping Bag (4-season), Sleeping Pad, Compression Sack.
- Backpack & Accessories: Backpack (50–60L), Dry Bags/Ziplock Bags, Water Bottle/Hydration Bladder, Trekking Poles, Headlamp/Flashlight, Sunscreen, First-Aid Kit, Multi-tool/Knife, Toiletries.
- Food & Water: High-Energy Snacks, Ready-to-Eat Meals, Water Purification Tablets.
- Communication: Smartphone, Power Bank, Whistle.
- Miscellaneous: Camera/Phone, Trekking Permit, Ski Goggles/Snow Glasses.
- Winter Specific Conditions: Crampons/Microspikes, Trekking Anklets.
- Additional Tips: Layering, Check Weather Conditions, Train for Winter Trekking.
FAQS
Yes, during winter, the body can take longer to acclimatize due to the cold and the increased difficulty of walking through snow. Make sure to follow proper acclimatization techniques, including ascending gradually and taking rest days to avoid altitude sickness. Winter trekkers are advised to pay extra attention to their hydration and nutrition as cold weather often reduces thirst.
Yes, many trekking operators in Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Auli offer winter gear rentals. You can rent items like sleeping bags, snow boots, gaiters, and trekking poles. It’s always a good idea to confirm in advance.
While it’s possible to do the trek solo, winter conditions make it risky. The trail can be challenging with snow and ice, so it’s strongly recommended to trek with a guide or as part of an organized group, especially during the winter months. A guide will ensure your safety, help with navigation, and manage any potential issues arising from winter conditions.
Winter temperatures on the Kuari Pass Trek can drop significantly:
- Daytime temperatures: Typically range from 5°C to 10°C.
- Nighttime temperatures: Can fall to -5°C to -10°C, especially at higher altitudes. In some cases, it can get even colder during extreme conditions.
The maximum altitude of Kuari Pass is 3,660 meters (12,008 feet) above sea level. While this is not extremely high, trekkers should still be cautious about altitude sickness, especially when trekking in winter when acclimatization might take longer.
To reach the Kuari Pass base, you need to first travel to Rishikesh or Haridwar. From there, you can drive to Joshimath, which serves as the starting point for the trek. The trek begins from Auli or Karchi village or Dhak village .
Accommodation on the Kuari Pass Trek includes:
- Guesthouses and Campsites: In villages like Auli or Dhak or Karchi, trekkers stay in basic guesthouses, and during the trek, camping is usually arranged by trekking operators.
- Tents: On higher altitudes, camping is the primary accommodation option.
The trek generally takes 5 to 6 days, depending on the itinerary and weather conditions. The trek includes acclimatization and rest days to ensure proper altitude adjustment and safety.
Layering is key: Wear moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer, and a windproof, waterproof outer layer.
Keep your feet dry: Wear woolen socks, and carry extra pairs.
Use a good sleeping bag: Ensure it is rated for -10°C to -15°C or lower to stay warm at night.
Keep your extremities covered: Wear thermal gloves, hats, and balaclavas.
- Summer (April to June): The weather is pleasant, and the trek is best for those who prefer moderate temperatures.
- Monsoon (July to September): Avoid this period due to heavy rainfall, which can cause landslides and make the trail slippery.
- Autumn (October to November): Clear skies and crisp weather make this a great time for the trek.
- Winter (December to February): If you enjoy snow, this is the time for a winter wonderland experience, but it requires extra preparation for cold temperatures and snow-covered trails.
The Kuari Pass Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It’s suitable for trekkers with basic fitness and some prior trekking experience. The trail involves ascents, descents, and some rocky paths. During winter (November to March), snow can make the trek more challenging, so extra caution and preparation are needed.
CONFIRMATION POLICY
- Within a day of a successful booking, the client gets a voucher of the confirmation through email.
- If the preferred slots are not available, an alternative schedule will be arranged according to the preference of the customer, and a new voucher of confirmation will be sent through email.
- Alternatively, before confirmation, the customer can decide to cancel their booking, and a complete refund will be issued.
CANCELLATION POLICY
- Cancellations made in between 45 days of the start date of the trip will be assessed a cancellation fee of 25% of the total tour cost.
- Cancellations made between 15-30 days of the trip’s start date will be charged 50% of the total tour cost as cancellation fees.
- If you cancel within 0-15 days of the trip’s start date, you will be charged 100% of the entire tour cost as cancellation fees.
- In the event of bad weather or government restrictions, any trips or events may be cancelled. In such a case, the operators will do all possible to give a viable alternative. However, a cash refund is not available on this item.
REFUND POLICY
If you select a refund after canceling your trek, the refund amount will be deposited into the payment account that you had used while making payment to us. It will take ten to twelve working days.
ENQUIRY
ABOUT US
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