Garhwal
Kuari Pass Trek
Lord Curzon's trail — the widest view of Nanda Devi from any easy pass
About this trek
Kuari Pass is the trek we recommend to anyone coming to Joshimath for the first time. The trail climbs from Dhak through Gulling and the oak forests of Khullara to the pass, and the reward is a panorama that includes most of the big Garhwal peaks at once. Camps are on open meadows, the days are moderate, and in winter the same route becomes a gentle snow trek.
Day by day
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Day 1
Rishikesh to Joshimath
Rishikesh → Joshimath
Road day up the Alaknanda valley to Joshimath.
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Day 2
Joshimath to Dhak, trek to Gulling
Joshimath → Dhak → Gulling
A short drive to Dhak village and a steady climb through terraced fields to the first meadow camp.
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Day 3
Gulling to Khullara
Gulling → Tali forest → Khullara
Oak and rhododendron forest, then the Khullara clearing with Dronagiri in view.
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Day 4
Khullara to Kuari Pass and back
Khullara → Kuari Pass → Khullara
The pass day. An early start over the ridge to the pass, with Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri and Chaukhamba on the skyline.
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Day 5
Khullara to Dhak, drive to Joshimath
Khullara → Dhak → Joshimath
The descent by the same route, and the drive back to Joshimath.
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Day 6
Joshimath to Rishikesh
Joshimath → Rishikesh
Drive out of the valley.
What is and is not included
Included
- Qualified trek leader and support staff
- Forest and camping permits
- Twin/triple sharing tents or guesthouse as noted
- All meals on the trek
- Safety equipment and first-aid support
Not included
- Transportation to and from the base camp unless noted
- Personal trekking gear and rentals
- Personal expenses and travel insurance
- Anything not listed under inclusions
Things to carry
- Trekking shoes with ankle support
- Backpack (40–60 L) with a rain cover
- Three warm layers and a padded jacket
- Poncho or rain jacket
- Sun cap, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Personal medication and toiletries
- Two one-litre water bottles
Rent what you are missing
Ask about this trek
Dates, difficulty, what to carry, a private group — send us a note and we will call or message you back. No account needed.
Also in the Garhwal
Other treks to consider
Satopanth Lake Trek
Walk past the last village on the Mana route to a triangular glacial lake ringed by Chaukhamba, Neelkanth and Balakun.
Ali Bedani Bugyal Trek
A rolling grassland trek above Lohajung, with Trishul and Nanda Ghunti standing directly over the campsite.
Brahmatal Trek
Snow underfoot from the first day, oak and rhododendron forest, and an open ridge that holds Trishul in view for hours.
