Kuari Pass Trek – When Life as I Know It Changed

The Kuari Pass trek is not just a journey through the mighty Himalayas; it’s an experience that changes you in ways you could never imagine. As I embarked on this adventure, my perspective on life shifted. From the tranquil landscapes to the camaraderie of fellow trekkers, every moment was filled with awe and reflection. Here’s how this trek transformed me and why it could be life-changing for anyone who ventures into the lap of the Himalayas.

Trek Overview

The Kuari Pass trek, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, is one of the most scenic and accessible treks in India. Known for its breathtaking views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Hathi Ghoda, it offers an ideal mix of forests, meadows, and high-altitude passes. Standing at an elevation of about 12,516 feet, this trek is moderate in difficulty, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

The trek typically spans 6 days, covering roughly 33 kilometers. You begin your journey from the village of Tugasi, gradually ascending through dense oak and rhododendron forests before crossing the snow-clad Kuari Pass. Along the way, trekkers experience the stunning beauty of alpine meadows, ancient forests, and panoramic views of some of India’s highest peaks.

How to Reach

To begin the Kuari Pass trek, you first need to reach Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand. Here’s how to get there:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is connected to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach your accommodation in the city.

• By Train: Dehradun has a well-connected railway station, with regular trains from Delhi, Kolkata, and other major cities. The popular “Nanda Devi Express” and “Dehradun Shatabdi Express” provide comfortable overnight journeys from Delhi.

• By Road: Dehradun is easily accessible by road from Delhi and other nearby towns. Regular buses run from ISBT Delhi to Dehradun, or you can hire a cab for a more personalized journey.

Once in Dehradun, you will head to the village of Tugasi, which is a 7-8 hour drive. This picturesque village serves as the starting point of your trek.

Day 1: Dehradun to Tugasi

When I reached Dehradun, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as I prepared for my solo trek. As a teenager traveling alone, the thought of embarking on such an adventure was thrilling. I met the group and the driver arranged by our trekking agency, Himalaya Shelter, early in the morning. We loaded our gear and began the journey at 8:00 AM.

There were 12 of us in the group, and introductions flowed easily as we navigated the mountain roads, the air growing cooler as we approached the Himalayas. We stopped for a hearty lunch along the way, which helped fuel our anticipation for the trek ahead. By 5:00 PM, we reached Tugasi village, where we were greeted with steaming plates of Pahari Maggi and chai—a perfect start. After settling into our rooms and enjoying a delicious local dinner, we explored the village, soaking in its cultural charm. Later, we were briefed on the upcoming trek, but I could hardly sleep, my body buzzing with anticipation and adrenaline.

Day 2: Tugasi to Guiling

The next morning, we set out after a filling breakfast, leaving behind the quaint village of Tugasi. As we climbed higher, we passed through fields of swaying paddy and wheat. The sounds of birds and rushing streams filled the air, making me forget that my phone had died and cutting me off from the digital world.

Our leader was patient, allowing me to catch my breath with frequent breaks. Sipping from fresh mountain streams as we trekked through the alpine landscape was rejuvenating. We reached Camp 1 at Guiling in about four hours, greeted by the camp staff with hot snacks. The remoteness of the camp, devoid of network coverage, gave me the opportunity to truly disconnect and appreciate the natural beauty around me. That night, under a sky full of stars, I felt a deep sense of peace.

Day 3: Guiling to Khullara

Today was one of the most visually stunning parts of the trek. We walked through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and pine, eventually emerging into the open meadow of Khullara. The view was breathtaking, with towering peaks like Hathi Ghoda, Dunagiri, and Nanda Devi standing before us.

The trek was relatively easy, and we soon found ourselves walking among the clouds. At 12,500 feet, we stopped for lunch, feeling as if we were dining in the heavens. The group had grown close by this point, sharing stories, snacks, and laughter. By the time we returned to camp, we were exhausted but content. I indulged in a delicious dinner, grateful for the hospitality of Himalaya Shelter, and we all retired early for the night.

Day 4: Khullara to Guiling

The next morning, we woke to the sound of birdsong echoing through the valley, acting as a natural alarm clock. After a simple breakfast, we began our descent back to Guiling. Along the way, I was once again awestruck by the sights and sounds of the Himalayan wilderness—gushing streams, towering pine trees, and the fresh scent of wet earth.

We arrived back at camp early, and I decided to spend the night outside my tent, under the stars. Wrapped in my sleeping bag, I felt connected to something much larger than myself, as if I had rediscovered a part of me that existed before the world of smartphones and constant distractions.

Day 5: Guiling to Tugasi

On our final day of trekking, I was filled with a sense of melancholy as we descended toward Tugasi. The journey had been transformative, and I wasn’t ready to return to the hustle and bustle of city life. The views of the paddy fields and the towering Himalayas on the horizon were as breathtaking as ever, a reminder of the beauty we were leaving behind.

That evening, back at the homestay in Tugasi, we had a small celebration with our group, exchanging photos and memories from the trek. Although we were all sad to be leaving, we were grateful for the shared experiences and the bonds we had formed along the way.

Day 6: Tugasi to Dehradun

The journey back to Dehradun was quiet as we all reflected on the trek. Though physically tired, we were mentally and emotionally enriched by the experience. A surprise celebration during a lunch stop lifted our spirits briefly, but the reality of returning to the everyday grind loomed large. Still, as I looked out at the receding mountains, I knew this trek had changed me in ways I would carry forever.

In the end, the Kuari Pass trek was more than just a physical challenge. It was a journey of self-discovery, a reminder that no matter how far we go or how advanced society becomes, we are forever connected to nature, to the mountains, and to our most authentic selves.