Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a beginner, the Kuari Pass Trek is one adventure you shouldn’t miss. This trek offers incredible views of India’s most iconic mountains, including Mt. Nanda Devi (25,673 feet) and Mt. Dronagiri (23,182 feet), and provides panoramic sights year-round. One of Lord Curzon’s notable legacies in India is popularising the route that traverses Kuari Pass in the Garhwal Himalayas.
This path is like an entry to the arena of the great Himalayan mountains. Kuari Pass is one of the several Himalayan passes that can be attempted, and trekkers can see the bedecked routes with snow. Although it is not a true pass crossing, the hike to the Kuari Pass gives a massive view of the region from the top of the pass.
The trek begins in Joshimath in the Chamoli district, a hub for trekkers and pilgrims alike. The distance is a four-day trek or ‘6’ days if you include travel from Rishikesh to Joshua and back and includes ‘Rishikesh’ – the holy town of Devprayag, Joshimath, and Haridwar.
This trek is more than 31 kilometers long from a comfortable distance; one can see the second highest peak in India, Mt. Nanda Devi. With the western tip reaching an elevation of 12516 feet, there are numerous peak views one can’t miss – Dronagiri, Chitrakantha, Chaukhamba, and Tali Top.
Lush meadows, or “Bugyals” as the locals call them, fill the route with beauty. Gorson Bugyal is a particularly mesmerising stop, a stretch of gently rolling green pastures. During the winter, snow transforms this trail into a wonderland, with oak forests draped in snow and trails that look like a holiday postcard. You’ll also catch glimpses of the sacred Bhagirathi and Alakananda rivers, adding to the journey’s allure.
The Kuari Pass trek, mistakes aside, is relatively easy and moderate, making it perfect to get initiated for those new to treks in the Himalayas. You’ll cross passes like Vinayak Pass and Tali Top along the route, reaching Kuari Top at 13,990 feet.
Each of the steps gives you the ultimate reward of the views of the Himalayas, with the sheer magnificence of the Nanda Devi Massif being the trip’s highlight. Those who are willing to seek some calm pastures and snow-laden slopes of the Garhwal Himalayas have reasons to get elated, for they can pack their gear, reach Haridwar, and Team up with Trekup India for an exciting venture on the Curzon Trail via Kuari Pass with stunning mountain views.
Kuari Pass is in the Nanda Devi National Park in the Uttarakhand district of Garhwal, India. Lush green forests and blooming pastures line the trek route, while the noticeable Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Chaukhamba peaks can be seen to the North.
Joshimath is the closest town to the place where the trek begins. It serves as a base for different treks in the Himalayas and lies on an all-weather road connecting Rishikesh and Haridwar.
The Kuari Pass trek is moderate, with certain elements contributing to its classification. Here are three key factors that elevate its difficulty level:
A) Significant Ascent on the First Day:
There is a steep and somewhat harder climb when commencing this trek, a climb of around 3000 feet in 4 kilometers. The first day’s steep inclination can be frustrating, as your body is also experiencing a significant gain in altitude at the get-go’.
Rapid altitude changes or elevation rise can increase the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness, which is specifically relevant to individuals who may not have fully adjusted to such altitude levels. This section is relatively easy. But its pace and escorting measures avoid stunting the safe and pleasant enjoyment of trekking.
B) Narrow Overhanging Trail from Tali to Gorson Bugyal:
Another factor contributing to the trek’s moderate difficulty is the section between the Tali campsite and Gorson Bugyal. Here, trekkers navigate a narrow overhanging trail for about 1 kilometer, which offers stunning views of the Dhak Valley below.
However, this section can become particularly tricky during the winter or rainy seasons, when snow or mud may make the path slippery or obscured. Caution is advised as you traverse this exhilarating yet precarious trek portion.
C) Navigational Challenges from Padiyar to Gorson Tali Campsite:
The trail from Padiyar to the Gorson Tali campsite can be difficult to follow, especially on foggy or misty days when visibility is reduced. This also makes it peripheral to losing oneself in the vastness of this geographic area, which will further increase the difficulty level of the trek. Trekkers do well taking their maps, some means of navigation, and an experienced guide to help them cope with the unpredictable landscape.
Despite these discouragements, one must stress that the level of difficulty of the Kuari Pass trek is intimately related to one’s level of preparation. A moderate trek can be challenging without adequate physical fitness, gear, and mental preparation.
Thus, adequate training, what to carry, and what to expect from the trek are all considerations for the adventure and its completion. For novices and experts alike, one must plan their travel, as it determines how strenuous or relaxed the trek is.
The Kuari Pass Trek typically takes 5 to 6 days to complete, depending on the chosen itinerary and the acclimatization schedule. This duration allows trekkers to gradually ascend, enjoy the scenic beauty of lush meadows and ancient forests, and fully experience the high-altitude viewpoints without rushing.
The trek covers approximately 33–40 kilometers, making it a moderate trek that suits both beginners and experienced trekkers looking for a balanced adventure in the Himalayas.
Most of the year, from September to June, the Kuari Pass Trek remains open, making it possible for trekkers to venture into the terrain in different seasons. It is, however, the expected heavy rains from monsoons in July and August months that render the trek impossible. The four seasons remaining, Winter, Spring, Summer, and Autumn, also have features dipped in uniqueness, so each of the seasons brings a different experience.
A) Kuari Pass in Winter (December to March)
Kuari Pass is visited in winter when covered with snow in what seems to be a fairytale. The area is a disorderly array of snow-capped pines, oaks, and dwarf rhododendrons, with every inch of the landscape covering a layer of fresh powdered snow. Jaw-dropping views of some of the tallest Indian peaks start even before the trek begins.
Despite the fact that thick snow might make it harder to trek, it also means that one should come well-prepared for the icy paths and extreme cold. For those coming this season, snowball fights and the expectation of witnessing snowfall are an added advantage or bonus. Of course, there is no denying that Kuari’s winters are among the harshest of the Himalayan treks. Hence, adequate preparations are encouraged.
B) Kuari Pass in Spring (Mid-March to End of April)
This season, spring rips offer blooming rhododendrons, hence adding appealing red and pink hues to the forest areas. In spring, one gets a mixture of stunning visuals; therefore, it is the prime time for any enthusiast or photographer looking to get stunning shots of white winter snow and bright spring flowers.
It is ideal for photographers who wish to backpack in moderate temperatures, avoid the aggressiveness of winter snow, or prepare for trek expeditions.
C) Kuari Pass in Summer (May to June)
Summer is a comfortable season to explore Kuari Pass, with warm days and mildly cold nights. Bright, sunny days make the trek inviting, with clear skies offering crisp views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. It’s an excellent time for those looking to trek in moderate weather without the challenge of winter snow.
As summer progresses, the weather becomes more unpredictable, with mild rains typically starting in the afternoons, marking the onset of monsoon season. This period of sunshine and sporadic rain brings the greenery in full bloom, creating a lush, vibrant environment along the trail.
D) Kuari Pass in Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is ideal for those seeking clear mountain views with crisp skies. The meadows turn a golden brown, creating a striking contrast with the snow-capped peaks. This season brings out warm autumn colors, enhancing the beauty of the landscape.
As the winter season approaches, the number of hours of the day diminishes while the amount of colder nights tends to increase, leading to snow. It’s a good time for trekking if one wants to see the whole landscape in its colorful season and even when the temperature is pleasant on the trek as well.
E) Trek Route & Weather Considerations
The final segment of the trek, which crosses towards Gorson Bugyal and descends into Auli, depends on the snow conditions and the weather forecast for the week. In adverse weather or unsafe conditions, the trek leader may adjust the route to ensure safety, possibly returning to the Khullara campsite.
Kuari Pass offers something remarkable every season, whether winter snow, spring blooms, summer warmth, or autumn’s golden tones. Each season provides a unique adventure, inviting trekkers to experience the Himalayan beauty in different ways.
It is an impressive trek with numerous places to see and unforgettable experiences! While walking on this beautiful trail, keep your eyes peeled for the following highlights of the trek that are worth a picture:
1) Gulling Top
Your trek starts at Gulling Top, a unique launch point for your adventure. Here, the trail gradually ascends through ancient oaks, their branches often heavy with snow during winter. This perfect opening prepares for the next days ahead, where the striking mountain ranges mingle through the trees. As the journey starts, the quiet and soft sound of snow underneath your boots is soothing and an adventure-filled rhythm.
2) Talli Forest
While moving forward, one is supposed to enter the mystical Talli Forest. It is hard to imagine sunlight in the furthest corners of the forest with colossal pine and oak tree trunks all around blanketed with snow. The forest is alive with a hazy light that shimmers through the thick upper branches, and now and then, the soft sound of a bird can be heard, breaking the hush of the forest’s many hidden depths.
Such an atmosphere looms over the forest that one feels like sitting back, closing one’s eyes, relaxing, and absorbing the lovely surroundings filled with natural beauty. Be on the lookout for various species of plants and animals, which will be ideal for those passionate about being in nature.
3) Khullara Top
As one ascends further up the mountains, a more open trail eventually takes one to Khullara Top, which has the most stunning views around, as if on the world’s roof. From here, one can see the infinitely stretching ranges of The Himalayas.
Pause for a moment and appreciate the many gigantic mountains around you, including the massive Nanda Devi visible far on the horizon. It is a moment to enjoy a great view of the surroundings, which is the topmost reward of their hard work, and appreciate the wonders of nature. Get ready to take stunning photos of this beautiful landscape, as the views here are breathtaking.
4) Gorson Bugyal
While going higher, on the way to the peak, you shall reach Gorson Bugyal, an amazing alpine meadow that should be on your bucket list. The thick area of the valley bears great transformation and looks magical, with white snow tightly hugging the land in winter while glistening beautifully when the sun’s rays touch it.
There is a great view when the open spaces of green meadows are perfectly contrasted with the thick coverage of forests below. Appreciate the beauty of nature and sit peacefully amidst all the greenery. This is a fantastic spot for photographers, so make sure you snap the beautiful calm of the snow-laden meadows and snow-capped hills in the background.
5) The Majestic Nanda Devi Peak
The Kuari Pass Trek’s most glorious point must be the view of the Nanda Devi, the country’s second-highest peak, along the trek. As the trekkers reach the northwestern summit of the pass, Nanda Devi comes into view and is flanked by some renowned peaks, including Dronagiri, Chaukhamba, and Hathi Ghoda.
6) Lord Curzon’s Trail
The Kuari Pass Trek is also often called the ‘Curzon Trail” after Lord Curzon made it prominent while serving as the Viceroy of India between 1899 and 1905. Curzon loved nature, and the region’s beauty made him fall in love with it, and he promoted it to be a trekking area.
This relationship also makes your trekking trip more interesting, giving you a sense of British exploration in India, which is closely associated with the country’s history. As you hike the same routes, please consider the permanent history and the explorers that have come to this beautiful scenery before you in the past.
Karachi is where one embarks on the Kuari Pass trek after enjoying the scenic ride from Rishikesh to Karachi. The Travelling route branches out along the Ganges river and its tributaries while the forests and expanding Garhwal’s valleys are nestled lower in the mountainsides. As you cross Pipalkoti, the landscape shifts dramatically, giving way to the towering, rugged peaks of the Greater Himalayan Range.
One of the most striking features of Karachi is the mighty Mt. Dronagiri, which will accompany you throughout your trek. Karachi has some fascinating spots to explore if you arrive a day early or linger post-trek.
Notably, there are hot springs nearby, a perfect relaxation spot. You’ll also catch sight of Mt. Dronagiri. Peak a breathtaking view as you step into the Garhwal region. Nearby, the villages of Lata and Reini are of historic significance, as these were key locations for India’s Chipko Movement.
Your trek starts from Karachi, either directly through or above the village. Just beyond the village, you’ll cross a water bridge, a good spot to refill water bottles. The initial trail brings a mix of ascents, with the first challenging incline lasting about 20 minutes, leading to a clearing – an ideal spot to rest and soak in the mountain views.
To your left, you can see Karchu village, nestled against the imposing Mt. Dronagiri, surrounded by glaciers. This mountain has a background history with Hanuman, who is famously believed to have once carried part of this mountain when searching for the Sanjeevani plant.
Afterward, one follows the trail into an area with dense pine, oak, and maple forests, where the ground is covered with pine cones and seeds of the maple tree. More and less steep sections of the forest trail are interspersed with several switchbacks, all in a gradual incline.
About a kilometer into the forest, you’ll come upon a lone walnut tree signaling the day’s campsite, Akhrotghetta. This clearing offers a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks, notably Hathi-Ghori and Mt. Dronagiri.
Settle in for the evening at this serene campsite, with a stream nearby and the walnut tree marking the spot. The view at sunset is breathtaking, casting a warm color over mountains and the terrain. Ensure you get up early enough to watch the tumbling waters as they tune gold. The first rays of the sun strike these peaks, which is an amazing scene to behold.
Day three takes you through lush oak and rhododendron forests on a gentle ascent to Khullara. The trail is still going up gradually but less steep than the previous day, meaning it is better to enjoy the views. In less than 40 minutes, you reach an area with towering oak trees, which is ideal if one needs to catch one’s breath. Forests include a mix of green, brown, and golden oaks interspersed with rhododendrons that dot the landscape most frequently.
During winter, exercise caution around streams, as they often freeze overnight, creating a slippery layer of ice known as verglas. Watch your footing as you cross these patches.
As you continue, the dense foliage occasionally parts, offering glimpses of the mountains, which become increasingly majestic.
After about an hour, you are met with yet another clearing, and in this section, the treeline starts to recede to give way to far more admirable views of the terrain. The Garhwal Himalayan Range looks monumental and snow-encrusted, which is breathtaking, and as you keep advancing, the view only gets better.
Onwards, a patch of dwarf rhododendrons comes in the way, which takes you to the Khullara campsite. The campsite is great in a large clearing from which all areas, including Mt. Dronagiri and the Hathi-Ghodi peaks slightly at the back of the left, are easily visible. Neelkanth, two other peak giants, can be on the periphery on a clear day.
As the sun draws closer to the horizon, the alpenglow casts the mountains in shades of pink and orange, which can be best seen from this beautiful site. Go around and around the sites and its brilliant sites, including Khullara, and wait for Day 2, which has a lot of beautiful sites to offer.
The journey from Khullara to Tali through the Kuari pass is a day filled with pure thrills and wonderful scenery. The trail begins with a stiff ascent from Khullara, passing the tree line to reveal a view of the snow-capped top. After a strenuous climb of about 1 to 1.5 hours, one climbs to the ridge on Lord Curzon’s brim, encircling you with a brilliant 360-degree view of the Himalayan ranges.
Standing at the ridge, the view becomes spectacular; to one’s left stand the likes of Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Dronagiri, Nilgiri, and Hathi Ghoda, while to the front, there are first sights of Trishul and parts of Nanda Devi. The trail continues through alpine meadows as you approach Kuari Pass, passing a shrine that marks the start of this iconic ridge.
At this point, the sight of Pangarchulla Peak signals the beginning of a challenging ascent. The trail to Kuari Top takes about 40 minutes, with a moderate climb that brings you to a point just shy of the actual Kuari Pass, which sits slightly lower. Trekkers usually opt for the top instead, where a 270-degree panoramic view unfolds, showcasing up to 22 Himalayan peaks—a sight that truly takes your breath away.
Once you have enjoyed these splendid sights, descend to the ridge from where you have come to the other side of Khullara and start walking gently upwards to Jhandi Top – another high point on the ridge. This takes approximately one hour.
Owing to the nature of the topography, this ridge walk can be windy and cold, but it is a small price to pay for the views. Look back to see the U-shaped notch of Kuari Pass and your path—it’s a perspective that adds even more beauty to the journey.
Upon reaching Jhandi Top, you descend through Chitrakantha Meadows, where the mountains gradually give way to a dense forest. This forest section contrasts sharply with the open ridges, with tall trees obscuring the mountains and creating a tranquil, almost magical ambience. After one to a half hours, one reaches the calm and serenity that can only be associated with Chitrakantha.
The path linking Chitrakantha to Tali goes much deeper into the forest, with golden oaks, pines, and even very short rhododendron trees appearing as groves. The forest becomes much more appealing, and a peaceful presence surrounds you as you walk through the enormous trees. Light rays make their way through the leaves, resulting in animated shadows that appear on the ground; even if one becomes tired, it is a moment worth waiting for.
At last, after walking for 40 minutes, we reach the Tali forest camp, which lies in the heart of the forest and is circled by thick, colossal trees. This beautiful campsite is a fantastic way to finish a busy day full of activities and challenges and lovely views of the Himalayas.
Today’s trek starts with an easy ascent towards Tali Lake in 30-40 minutes. At this elevation, the lake above the tree line is so surrounded by mountain peaks that it becomes even more special as one of the panoramic sights, including the majestic Mt. Nanda Devi, a view that will be hard to forget.
From Tali Lake, a steep 20-minute ascent brings you to a narrow, cliff-hugging trail that provides a thrilling perspective of the valley below. On this path, you can see both the Lower and Upper Tugasi villages spread out far beneath you, with rhododendron forests carpeting the valley slopes. The sky above often hosts Himalayan Griffins, majestic birds whose graceful gliding captures the wild beauty of this region.
Following this ascent, you’ll trek along an overhanging ledge for about 40 minutes before making a U-turn towards the expansive Gorson Bugyal. This alpine meadow offers panoramic views of the mountains to your right and behind, with open skies and peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. Trekking the length of Gorson Bugyal is a true highlight, allowing you ample time to absorb the vistas and the tranquil rhythm of the open landscape.
As you approach civilisation, you may notice increased foot traffic, particularly during peak seasons. Gorson Bugyal reminds you to leave the mountains pristine; you’re encouraged to help clean up waste and preserve this beautiful wilderness.
About 2-2.5 hours in, you’ll reach the peaceful oak forests surrounding Padiyar. A 15-minute walk brings you to the Padiyar Temple, a perfect spot for a quick break. From here, the descent continues, gradually leading you down through dense oak groves.
In 10-15 minutes, you’ll arrive at Upper Auli, near Ski Lift #10. Auli, located around 1,000 feet below, is reached after a 1-1.5 hour descent through grassy meadows with expansive views of the mountain ranges as a fitting end to your trek.
Once in Auli, a scenic drive takes you down to Dhak, where you’ll settle into the tranquil surroundings of the Karachi campus for a restful night, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve completed.
Begin your day bright and early, ideally before 6:00 AM, as the drive from Joshimath to Rishikesh will take approximately 9 to 10 hours. The scenic route will lead you through breathtaking landscapes and along the banks of the Ganges River, with the opportunity to witness the stunning Panch Prayags—five sacred confluences that hold great significance in Hindu mythology.
Enjoy the amazing views of the hills and valleys throughout your Journey. Explore the markets near Ganga Aarti or the lively locations such as various ashrams and multiple yoga centres if time allows after reaching Rishikesh. This journey links two beautiful places and allows you to experience the spiritual culture of India.
The planning of the trekking gear should be well thought out as the click and weather conditions may vary during the trek. Below is a detailed list of the most important aspects when going for the trek, ranging from head-to-toe parts of the body to the clothes needed, necessary items, and even a first aid box and documents that you need to carry with you.
A) Head Gear
B) Clothing Essentials
Proper layering is used as an efficient means to offer warmth to one’s body and ensure adaptability during a trek. The number of layers varies depending on the season and altitude.
C) Foot Gear
D) First Aid and Personal Medical Kit
Trek a short distance with a first aid kit with essential items for minor cuts and bruises, but go out with pre-prescribed medication.
E) Gadgets and Additional Items
F) Hygiene and Personal Toiletries
G) Required Documents
Fitness Level: Preparing for High-Altitude Trekking
Adapting to a high-altitude trek like a Kuari Pass will take considerable time and practice, as the steep and weather is unpredictable. The first step to be ready for trekking and climbing will be increasing the bulk of physical exercises.
Physical Fitness Requirements
Recommended Training Routine
Why Fitness Matters
Trekking in high-altitude areas requires physical strength as well. There are steep climbs, walks on snow, crossing streams, and rough ground, which one needs to navigate safely, and fitness helps here greatly.
There are forms of exercise or other methods that, if the trekkers adopt them, will reduce these issues of injury, fatigue, or altitude sickness and make completing the trek much easier.
After preparing well, you will improve your experience on the trek and be able to face any surprises that may arise on the way. With sufficient fitness and the required gear, you will be ready for an exciting adventure in Kuari Pass.
Completing the Kuari Pass appears to be the greatest trek in the Indian Himalayas region, which has stunning scenery and great trekking experiences. As far as the break is concerned, an adequately designed travel itinerary for the trip will prove helpful in making the entire trip quite easy for the traveler.
The purpose of this manual is to present a stepwise approach that will enable you to go to the Kuari Pass trek base and back without complications.
1.1 Booking Your Transportation
1.2 Check-in Point for Trekkers Registered
On Day 1, prepare for an approximately 9–10-hour drive from Rishikesh to Karachi, the base camp for the Kuari Pass trek. Cooltrails typically organizes the transport from Live Free Hostel early in the morning, so be ready for pickup around 6:00 AM.
Travel Route Highlights:
Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of the trek:
To ensure you are well-rested, consider staying an extra night in Rishikesh:
Your trek will conclude with a drive back to Rishikesh, after which you can return to Delhi or Dehradun.
5.1 If Returning to Delhi:
5.2 If Returning to Dehradun:
Additional Travel Tips for a Smooth Trek
The choice of accommodation while planning for the Kuari pass trek is very important, for it will determine the comfort and ease of the journey. When you are in Rishikesh, Haridwar, or close to the Jolly Grant Airport, your preferences and budget regarding the lodging facilities available will be fine. Here is a summary of some places to stay and an offer for food that will best suit the trekkers in the Kuari Pass region.
1) Accommodation in Rishikesh
Rishikesh, the gateway to the Himalayas, is ideal for tourists trekking to Kuari Pass. It has well-priced hostels whose location is also strategic and focuses on private rooms and dormitory beds.
A) Hostel Live Free
B) Zostel, Rishikesh
C) Joey’s Hostel
D) Shiv Shakti Hostel
2) Accommodation near Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
For these trekkers, approaching Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun allows some to locate nearby accommodations for practicality.
A) Sun n Soil Backpackers Hostel
3) Accommodation in Haridwar
For some trekkers, however, Haridwar is another option for locating the train station as it’s a short escape to Rishikesh or Dehradun.
A) Hotel Famous
B) Hotel Rahi (GMVN Property)
Food Options
During the Kuari Pass Trek, most food arrangements are handled by trekking operators like Cooltrails. Meals are typically included in the trekking packages once you reach the base camp and continue throughout the trek. Still, several restaurants serve Indian and continental cuisines in the towns of Rishikesh and Hardwar.
Permits are essential when it comes to the protection and conservation of safety, surrounding areas, and the management of trekking activities within the region. Here is a comprehensive summary of the documentation permits and regulations imposed on trekkers on the Kuari Pass Trek.
1) Mandatory Documents Required for the Trek
2) Permit Requirements
Numerous permits are necessary to carry out the Kuari Pass Trek as it runs through ecologically sensitive Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve areas. These include permission from the local tourism and forest department, which is mandatory before trekking in protected regions.
Note: The costs of all necessary permits are included in the overall trek package if you are travelling with Cooltrails. Their team handles the permit process on behalf of every trekker, making the experience hassle-free for participants.
3) Environmental Regulations and Responsible Trekking
Kuari Pass is part of a very sensitive ecosystem, and a set of laws and regulations regulates ecology preservation. It is recommended for trekkers to comply with these regulations for eco-friendly trekking challenges:
4) Health and Safety Regulations
Due to the great heights, specific health and safety measures have been implemented to prevent every trekker from being harmed. Lakpa and Pasang recommend to:
The distance of the Kuari Pass trek is about 33-35 kilometers, but it also depends on the specific trail. The trek lasts from 5 to 6 days, covering 4-5 hours of trekking each day.
Network connectivity is generally limited to the base village and may be patchy during the trek. It’s recommended to inform family and friends beforehand as there’s little to no network coverage along most parts of the Kuari Pass trail.
The last reliable ATM is usually in Joshimath, the base for many Kuari Pass treks. However, ATMs can be out of service, so carrying enough cash from cities like Rishikesh or Haridwar is advisable.
On the trek, washrooms are typically basic dry toilets set up in tent enclosures, which are eco-friendly. These are set up at campsites, and trekkers are provided with essential supplies, but facilities will be simpler than standard public restrooms.
The Kuari Pass trek covers approximately 33-35 kilometers, depending on the specific route. The trek generally spans 5-6 days, with 4-5 hours of trekking each day.
Kuari pass altitude is about 12516 feet or 3815 meters from sea level.
Age itself is not a strict barrier. The trek, however, involves going to a high altitude and tough terrain, which puts high requirements on physical strength and stamina. See one’s physician before going on such trips, and checking fitness levels is also advisable. People in their fifties and above prepare themselves by doing regular cardio and strength workouts a few months before the trek.
Most trekking agencies provide offloading services for an extra charge. This means mules or porters can carry your backpack, enabling you to trek with a light daypack.
Located in the Garhwal region of the Indian state of Uttarakhand, Kuari Pass can be accessed from Joshimath town. The trail is inside Nanda Devi National Park.
The Kuari Pass is approximately at a height of 3,815 meters, or 12,516 feet.
The trip’s cost is highly demanded depending on the services provided and the season in which the services are being availed. On average, it could range between INR 8000 to 12000 for one person, which is given for all costs, including packages that include the cost of the permits, food, guides, accommodation, and transportation from the base camp.