The Kuari Pass trek has been one of my most memorable Himalayan journeys. Often called the Lord Curzon Trail, it offers everything a trekker could ask for—forests, meadows, snowy trails, and breathtaking views of some of India’s highest peaks like Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Chaukhamba. What makes it even better is that it’s beginner-friendly yet rewarding enough for seasoned trekkers.
In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through the day-by-day itinerary, along with tips, highlights, and personal experiences. I’ll also refer to how trekking with an organized company like The Searching Souls (TSS) can make the journey smoother without being overwhelming or overly promotional.
Day 1: Arrival in Joshimath (6,700 ft)
The adventure begins with a long but scenic drive from Rishikesh to Joshimath, covering around 256 km in 8–9 hours. The route passes through the holy confluences of Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karnaprayag, where rivers like Alaknanda and Bhagirathi meet. Watching these rivers merge is almost like watching stories come together before the trek even begins.
Reaching Joshimath, you immediately feel the shift in atmosphere—crisp mountain air, buzzing markets, and trekkers everywhere. Most companies, including TSS, arrange accommodation here for the night. This first day is crucial because it lets you acclimatize a little before heading further up.
In the evening, trekkers usually gather for a briefing. This is when the guides explain the trek plan, share safety instructions, and answer questions. For me, this moment felt like the real beginning—meeting fellow trekkers, sharing excitement, and realizing that we were all about to live a shared story.
Day 2: Joshimath to Dhak Village – Trek to Gulling (9,500 ft)
A short 45-minute drive takes you from Joshimath to Dhak village, the starting point of the trek. The village is simple and charming, with terraced fields and small houses built in traditional mountain style. The trek begins with a steady ascent through farmland before transitioning into oak and rhododendron forests.
The trail is not too steep but enough to get your legs warmed up. Along the way, you can see villagers carrying firewood, children playing, and herds of goats grazing. These little glimpses of mountain life add warmth to the journey.
By afternoon, you reach Gulling campsite, tucked amidst tall oak trees. What struck me here was the quiet—only the sound of wind and distant birds. As evening settled, I could see the silhouette of Dronagiri peak, and it felt like the mountains were slowly revealing themselves.
Staying in tents for the first night of the trek makes everything more real. Sitting by a campfire, sharing stories with strangers who feel like friends already—that’s when you know you’re in for something special.
Day 3: Gulling to Khullara (11,000 ft)
This day feels like stepping deeper into The Searching Souls. The trail continues through dense oak and rhododendron forests, which are especially beautiful in spring when the flowers bloom in shades of red and pink. The air grows cooler, and the forest slowly opens into alpine meadows.
Reaching Khullara campsite is a reward in itself. Spread across a vast meadow, it offers direct views of towering peaks like Hathi Ghoda, Dronagiri, and glimpses of the mighty Nanda Devi. For me, Khullara was love at first sight. The openness of the meadow, with snow-capped giants all around, makes you feel tiny yet deeply connected to nature.
Evenings at Khullara are magical. As the sun sets, the peaks glow golden, and when darkness falls, the sky turns into a galaxy of stars. If you’ve never seen the Milky Way before, this is your chance. I remember lying on my back, staring up, and feeling like time had stopped.
This day is moderate in terms of difficulty, but it builds anticipation for what’s to come.
Day 4: Khullara to Kuari Pass (12,516 ft) – Return to Khullara
This is the highlight of the entire trek, the day everyone waits for. The climb from Khullara to Kuari Pass is steeper and can get challenging, especially in winter when snow covers the trail. But every step feels worth it as the views grow grander.
The moment you reach Kuari Pass, you’re rewarded with a panoramic view of Himalayan giants:
Nanda Devi (India’s second-highest peak at 25,643 ft)
Kamet
Chaukhamba
Trishul
Dronagiri
Standing there, with these snow-clad peaks stretching endlessly, I felt both humbled and uplifted. It’s the kind of view that makes you forget the effort it took to get there. We spent time taking pictures, soaking in the silence, and simply letting the grandeur sink in.
After enjoying the pass, we retraced our steps back to Khullara campsite. The descent is quicker, but the images of the mountains stay with you long after. That night at Khullara, the sense of achievement made the campfire feel warmer and the food taste even better.
Day 5: Khullara to Dhak – Drive Back to Joshimath
The return journey takes you back through the same forests and trails, but it feels different. With the summit behind you, the trek feels lighter. The descent is gentler, and you start noticing details you might have missed on the way up—like wildflowers, bird calls, or the way sunlight filters through oak leaves.
By afternoon, you’re back at Dhak village, and from there, a short drive brings you to Joshimath again. Sleeping in a bed after days in a tent feels like luxury, but a part of you already misses the campsite.
Day 6: Departure from Joshimath
The trek ends with a drive back to Rishikesh, but the memories travel with you. For me, Kuari Pass wasn’t just about reaching a viewpoint—it was about the journey, the people I met, the forests I walked through, and the mountains that made me pause and reflect.
Why I Recommend Trekking with a Guided Team
While kuari pass trekking is doable independently, going with a professional group like The Searching Souls (TSS) adds ease and safety. They manage permits, food, tents, and guides, letting you focus on the experience instead of logistics. I found their team supportive and knowledgeable, and it never felt like a “package tour”—more like trekking with experienced friends who knew the mountains well.
Final Thoughts
The Kuari Pass trek is beginner-friendly but immensely rewarding. Whether it’s your first Himalayan trek or your tenth, it leaves you with memories that last a lifetime. Standing at the pass with Himalayan giants all around is something you’ll carry in your heart forever.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to go on your first Himalayan adventure, trust me—Kuari Pass is the perfect place to start.
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