KUARI PASS TREK in Uttarakhand

 Trekking in India has immense scope. The cultural diversity, variety in topography and rich geographic wealth make India a leading region for trekking and similar activities. Most North Indian states are a hub for trekking and other adventurous activities, the state of Uttarakhand is one amongst them to have many mountainous regions and terrains ideal for trekking. The Kuari Pass Trek of this state is one of the most vibrant, fulfilling and easy grade expeditions for trekking in India.

Interestingly, the route to Kuari Pass was explored by Lord Curzon and is now an entertaining, appeasing as well as comforting trekking destination that offers a variety of aesthetics across different seasons. I visited Kuari Pass during the peak winter season and was overwhelmed by the snow laden landscapes. There were carpets of fresh powdery snow smeared over stretches and stretches of land; it was unbelievably beautiful!

Kuari Pass Trek is a gateway to the heavens and I am not exaggerating when I say this. The views that unfold before you are indeed utopian and heavenly. And at the cost at which you get to access those surreal and enthralling sights is what sets apart Kuari Pass Trek from the others.

The Kuari Pass Trek begins from Joshimath which can be easily reached from Haridwar. It takes approximately 10 hours to travel between the two cities. The drive from Haridwar to Joshimath was exhausting and tiring yet exciting and endearing. The exquisite views of lush green landscapes smothered with powdery snow were heartwarming and worth the struggle. I reached Joshimath at sunset and enjoyed a beautiful play of colours in the sky. Tired as I was, I enjoyed a scrumptious meal for dinner and went to bed early to wash off the weariness.

I drove to Dhak village the next day to begin my trek to Tali Forest Camp which was the second stop on my itinerary. As I began trekking, I came across a remote village called Tugashi. With very few houses and minimal population, Tugashi was intriguing and gripping. Ahead of Tugashi, I traversed dense Oak forests with wild-cold breezes brushing against my face. As I left the last forest tree line behind me, I entered a vast snow-covered, engrossing meadow which left me transfixed for a moment with its glamour. As I continued trekking, I reached the spectacular snow laden Gulling. At this point, I was brimming with awe and wonder.

Gulling is an ideal place for a quick lunch break, just 4 kms away from Gulling is the Tali Forest Camp situated at an altitude of 11,000 ft. The route from Gulling to Tali Forest Camp was moderately easy along gradual ascents. By evening, I stood at the Tali Forest Camp and admired the relentless glory of nature. Camping at Tali Forest Camp is a rich and unique experience that I thoroughly relished that night.

I woke up early to trek to the Khullara Top which lies at an approximate distance of 3.5 kms. The route from Tali Forest Camp to Khullara top is enrapturing and thrilling with a frozen stream crossing that levels up the game altogether. The Kuari Pass lies just 2kms away from the Khullara Top but the trail from Khullara to Kuari is a little taxing and strenuous especially during the peak winter season with knee-deep powdery snow spread over the landscapes. I was, however, determined to reach Kuari Pass and soon I did. As I reached closer to the pass the views of Mt Kedarnath, Dronagiri, Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba became apparent, leaving me astonished. At a height of 12,800 ft, I was at the top of Kuari Pass, devouring the hypnotic and arresting views of Mukut, Hathi and Ghori Parvats. After spending a relaxing amount of time at Kuari Pass and adoring the mesmerizing panoramic views from the peak, I retraced the trail to return to Tali Forest Camp.

Next day, I trekked to Tali Lake that was 1km away from my campsite. The lake was serene and rested calmly in all its glory. I then began my trek to Gurson Bugyal which was 3.5 kms away from the lake. Gurson Bugyal was enticing and enchanting. From here, I trekked further for 3.5 kms to reach the overwhelmingly fascinating Auli. After admiring Auli from the bottom of my heart and relaxing in its vicinity, I drove back to Joshimath to conclude the Kuari Pass Trek successfully.