Kuari Pass Trek or “Lord Curzon’s trail” is perched at an elevation of 3,565 meters above the sea level, nestled in the snow-capped Garhwal ranges in the Chamoli District, Himachal Pradesh. Kuari Pass is a popular trekking destination among trekkers.
In 1905, Lord Curzon, the viceroy of India, has undertaken a trek to this beautiful pass. Kuari Pass is the best window to view the Himalayan Peaks. One can see the mesmerizing views of Peaks like Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronanagri and Hathi Ghodi Parvat from here.
The trek is a 33 km long trek and is considered easy to moderate difficulty level trek. This mountain trekking will start from Joshimath under the confluence of several rivers like The Pinder, Birehiganga, Mandakini, Kaliganga, and Dhauliganga all these rivers make Panch Prayag.
You will pass the Tali top via Dhak Village. A walk inside varied forests of Rhododendrons, Pines, Maple, and Oak. This trail will give you a chance to explore the Pahadi culture, lifestyle, and hardship. After crossing the meadows once you reach Kuari Pass, you will see the landscapes of the high mountains and beauty of the region from the top. Stay for a while breathing the fresh air and click as many pictures you can. Staying in camps will give you a lifetime amazing experience. You truly get spectacular views of the Himalayas- Trishul (23, 496ft), Kedarnath( 22,994ft), Kamet’s Pyramid( 25,595ft), Nilkanth( 21,767ft).
After crossing the Kuari Pass you will descent to Joshimath via Khullara, Auli and Gorson Bugyal. Auli is the longest skiing slopes in Asia. It is known as skier’s paradise. Auli offers glorious views of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat, and Dunanagri Himalayan Peaks. From Joshimath, you can take a 3 km cable ride to reach Auli. A large no. of visitors visit this delightful and amazing place in both summers and winters. The refreshing part of the trek will come after Auli “ the Gorson Bugyals” you will be walking through Himalayan meadows which are called Bugyals locally. The Nanda Devi Massif is the important highlight of the trek.
The temperature usually remains 13 degrees to 18 degrees during the day time and drops down -3 degrees to 4-degree Celsius in the night. Kuari Pass trek is one of the best opportunities for winter trekking in India.
The best time to visit is in the months of September to February as the pass receives huge amount of snowfall. In December the place is all covered with snow and you will experience the best views of the Himalayan Peaks.
Haridwar is well connected by all major cities. You can reach Haridwar by taking a direct bus or train from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other major cities.
The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located about 25 km from the city. From here you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach Joshimath.
Kuari Pass Trek is one of the best winter adventure one can undertake. Experience Skiing, trekking, camping all at one place with mesmerizing panoramic views of the Himalayas. This trek is preferred mostly to experienced trekkers due to the higher altitudes and snow. But beginners can also go to this trek with an experienced trek leader and by taking proper safety measures.
We must say Curzon’s trail has more variety in camping grounds. You can pitch your tent inside pine forests, Tali top, and Gulling.
Other nearby treks you can do and add with your Kuari Pass Trek adventure is the Pangarchulla Summit. After crossing the Kuari pass come back to Tali and start your Pangarchulla Summit from here. It will take 5-6 hours to climb the peak. It is the highest point of the surrounding area and offers captivating views of other peaks and lower valleys.
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Highlights of the trek:
- Captivating views of other Himalayan Peaks Like Nanda Devi, Dronanagri, Trishul, etc.
- A chance to explore the life of locals in villages like Joshimath.
- A walk into the Rhodendrons, oak, and pine forests.
- Trekking at an elevation of 3,365m (Kuari Pass Trek).
- Experience camping, trekking, and sightseeing.
- Skiing adventure at the popular skiing destination Auli.
The Kuari Pass Trek is a must-do adventure in winter. Experience nature at its best with snow. Get your trekking shoes on and plan this adventure. Make your trip memorable with the best views of Himalayas.
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You can also check this for similar treks.