Hey everyone,

I wanted to share my experience of doing the Kuari Pass Trek, and maybe it’ll help some of you who are either planning for it or just curious about how it feels to be up there. I had been dreaming about this trek for years after reading about its incredible views of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kamet, and Hathi Ghoda Parvat, and finally last winter, I got the chance to make it happen.

The Journey Begins

Our trek started from Joshimath, a base that many trekkers would recognize if they’ve done treks like Auli, Valley of Flowers, or Hemkund Sahib. Joshimath itself has a certain vibe — small mountain town charm, snow-capped peaks in the distance, and that nervous excitement before you head into the unknown.

We drove to Dhak village, which is the actual starting point. The first day wasn’t very difficult, mostly gradual ascents through villages and farms. The trail was beautiful, lined with oak and rhododendron trees, and we got glimpses of locals carrying wood or tending to cattle. The simplicity of their lives really hit me.

Into the Forests and Meadows

On the second day, things got more magical. We entered dense forests that felt straight out of a storybook. Sunlight filtering through oak leaves, the crunch of dry leaves under boots, and the occasional call of a bird — it was a reminder of how quiet and alive the mountains are at the same time. By afternoon, we reached the camps set in the open meadows, and that’s when the grand view of the peaks started opening up.

I still remember stepping out of the tent at dusk and seeing Mount Nanda Devi glowing golden in the last rays of the sun. It’s one of those sights that stays with you long after the trek is done.

People and Bonding

Another unique part of treks like Kuari Pass is the people you meet. Our group was a mix — college students, a couple celebrating their anniversary, and even a solo traveler in his late 50s who had been trekking for years. Evenings at camp were filled with laughter, stories, and sometimes just staring at the sky. I had never seen a clearer view of the Milky Way, and it felt like the mountains were letting us borrow a piece of their magic for a few days.

What Makes Kuari Pass Special

I’ve done a few Himalayan treks, but Kuari Pass felt special for two reasons:

The Views: You get to see some of the most iconic peaks of the Indian Himalayas without the trek being too extreme or technical.

The History: It’s often called the "Curzon Trail" because Lord Curzon, a British Viceroy of India, was fascinated by this route. Knowing that gave me an odd sense of connection with the explorers of the past.

Tips if You’re Planning

Best time: December to March if you want snow, or April to June for clear trails and blooming forests.

Difficulty: I’d rate it as easy to moderate, perfect for beginners who want a real Himalayan experience.

Essentials: Warm clothing, good trekking shoes, and definitely a camera (though no camera can capture what your eyes will see).

Fitness: Do some cardio training before you go. Even if it’s beginner-friendly, having stamina makes the trek more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

The Kuari Pass Trek isn’t just about walking from point A to point B. It’s about rediscovering how small we are in front of nature, yet how deeply connected we can feel to it. For me, it wasn’t just a trek, it was a reminder of why the mountains keep calling us back — the peace, the challenge, and the beauty that can’t be explained but only experienced.

If anyone here is still debating whether to go for Kuari Pass or not, I’d say don’t think twice. Pack your bags, book your trek, and let the Himalayas surprise you.

For more info visit - https://www.trekupindia.com/kuari-pass-trek/