Located in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, Kuari, which means 'doorway' in the local language, lies south of the Tibet border and on the western edge of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. It is surrounded on all sides by imposing mountain ranges that include the Kamet, which extends up to a dizzying height of 7756 metres.
About the Kuari Pass trekThe Kuari Pass trek is one of the few trekking destinations that are open in the winter and is a popular end-of-the-year trek. Also known as the Lord Curzon Trail, this trek is a moderately challenging one, except for one day when you’ll put your climbing muscles to the test as you climb to Pangarchula Peak, which stands tall at 15419 feet. Your guides will take you through a brief course on climbing techniques, and may even rope up certain sections if needed. The Kuari Pass trek is perfect for beginners and those who want to experience the grandeur and majesty of the Himalayas.
What you’ll do on the Kuari Pass trekThe Kuari Pass trail takes you through endless green meadows, alpine forests, and past towering Himalayan peaks. As trekkers walk through lush fields, drink from alpine streams and visit remote villages, they are rewarded with enchanting 360 degree views of the Chaukhamba Range to one side while the summits of Mana, Kamet and Abl Gamin extend on the other side all the way to the Tibet border. At night, you and your group will stop at magnificent campsites, enjoying delicious hot meals and sleep like babies in fresh, warm sleeping bags under the stars. As you approach the scree-covered slopes near Pangarchula, you’ll receive the full mountain experience of roping up and clambering over boulders. There's no half-ways on this trek. Every sight, every peak, every meadow - the scenery is larger than life, and makes for a dramatic trek that you'll never forget.
Best season for the Kuari Pass trekDuring the summer, the Kuari Pass trek is gorgeous, and will give you unlimited views of greenery and mountain peaks in the distance. The camping experience is wonderful, and you’ll have cool nights and pleasant days. However, if you’re looking for a fun challenge, try the Kuari Pass winter trek. The trails are covered in snow, and you’ll have stunning views of the landscape blanketed in white. In the winter, the Kuari Pass trek is even more magnificent, thanks to the blankets of snow covering everything. During this trek, you’ll get to see how winter completely transforms the green pine forests and the stark rock faces into sparkling white perfection. The trail gives you some of the finest views of Himalayan giants like Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Trishul. It is said that the views on the Kuari Pass winter trek are the best in the Indian Himalayas