The Kuari Pass trek unfolds in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, rising to an elevation of around 12,516 ft (~3,820 m). In winter, this trail transforms into a soft, luminous world of snow-draped forests and high-meadows, offering a mixture of high-altitude calm and alpine thrill.
Beginning from villages near Joshimath and threading through ancient oak, pine and rhododendron woods, the route gradually climbs into expansive meadows like the famed Gorson Bugyal. As winter snow settles in, the open ridges reveal a sweeping 360° panorama of Himalayan giants—peaks such as Nanda Devi, Kamet, Chaukhamba, Trishul and others rise in crystalline clarity.
Rated “easy to moderate”, the trail is suitable for trekkers who are comfortable walking in snow and carrying winter gear, yet it still demands respect for the cold, the altitude and the remote setting. Nights will be cold, sometimes dropping well below zero in winter, and the trail conditions shift with snow and weather.
With each step, you’re not just walking a path — you’re weaving through a terrain of forest, meadow, snow-roofed ridges and Himalayan spectacle. In the hush of winter, the world feels distilled: crisp air, white blankets, and the mountains watching. Trekkers come away not just with summit memories but with something quieter: the echo of snow-silent woods, the glint of dawn on far summits, the stillness of high-altitude peace.
If you want a winter trekking offering that blends approachable altitude, world-class Himalayan views and a soulful immersion into silence and snow, Kuari Pass is a very strong choice.
Overview
Known as the “Lord Curzon Trail”, the Kuari Pass Trek is one of Uttarakhand’s most scenic Himalayan journeys. This trek offers a perfect blend of dense oak–rhododendron forests, sprawling alpine meadows, and breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kamet, and Dronagiri. At an altitude of 12,516 ft, Kuari Pass is ideal for both beginners and seasoned trekkers, promising a memorable experience of Himalayan landscapes, adventure, and tranquility. Starting from Rishikesh, the trail passes through quaint villages, Auli’s meadows, and culminates in panoramic vistas that stay with you for a lifetime.
