Kuari Pass Winter Trek

Hosted by Plan The Unplanned
- Verified Host
- Logout's Trusted
- Traveler's Choice
All About It
- Difficulty - Easy Moderate
- For 18+ years
You just happen to chance upon the Plan The Unplanned website or someone who has trekked with us has spoken to you about our trips. The thought of taking such a trip starts to form in your mind, but then, you are not a trekker.
Choose the Kuari Pass trek from Joshimath and we promise you that you will not only be able to trek the entire trail, but also have an experience that you will relish and share for a long time to come. As a matter of fact, this trek might be what entices you to head on more such adventures.
Nestled in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas, this region is known for offering some of the most spectacular sights in the world. If you are someone who likes the slower pace of life or wants to slow down intentionally, this is the trip for you.
Did you know that Lord Curzon was the one to find this trail, which is why it is named after him? The trek begins at Joshimath, a haven for those seeking the divine as well as those looking for adventure. Pass through tiny towns and hamlets, walk through floral and fragrant forests and make memories that you just might want to recreate!
Trek Highlights
Whether you are looking to make new friends or want to etch a new adventure in your journal, the Kuari Pass trek itinerary might be just what you are looking for.
- Once you get to Rishikesh, we will take you to Joshimath, where you will check into a comfortable homestay
- The day is free for you to explore the area or just get some R&R
- Next day, we drive towards Tugasi village, the starting point for the trek
- Trek to Guling with a lush green canopy to keep you company
- Camp here for the night and enjoy some fun and games with your newfound friends
- The trek from Guling to Khullara will allow you to explore the stunning scenery and click plenty of pics too
- As evening arrives at the camp, you will get to stare at a starry sky
- The climb to Kuari Pass will give you a sunrise view that you will never forget – catch glimpses of Nanda Devi, Nilkantha and Chaukhamba Massif peaks and more
- On day 5, we will head back to Joshimath, via Tugasi, after bidding farewell to Khullara
On the final day, as you head back to your regular life and routine, you might find your mind wandering back to the Kuari Pass trek. Well, we promise you, our tribe and team will be waiting to take you on the next adventure too!
Highlights
Day 1:
‣ Begin your journey into the Garhwal Himalayas
‣ Drive through the scenic routes of Devprayag, Karnaprayag & Rudraprayag
‣ Reach Joshimath by evening - the gateway to Kuari Pass
‣ Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Joshimath
Day 2
‣ Drive to Tugasi village, the trek's starting point
‣ Trek through charming Himalayan villages and terraced fields
‣ Enter oak and rhododendron forests on the way to Guling
‣ Camp at Guling surrounded by alpine serenity
Day 3
‣ Trek deeper into the forest trail lined with deodar and conifers
‣ Catch glimpses of Mt. Dronagiri as you ascend
‣ Reach the tranquil Khullara campsite, perfect for stargazing
Day 4
‣ Summit day: Early morning ascent to Kuari Pass
‣ Witness breathtaking views of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Chaukhamba & Trishul
‣ Enjoy the snow-covered meadows and panoramic ranges
‣ Descend back to Khullara for overnight stay
Day 5
‣ Trek back through the forest to Tugasi village
‣ Drive to Joshimath and relax at the base camp
‣ Reflect on the journey through untouched Himalayan beauty
Day 6
‣ Depart for Rishikesh with unforgettable mountain memories
‣ Drive along rivers and valleys, ending the trek where it began
*All activities are subject to weather and group decisions. No refunds shall be provided for skipped activities. All timings are an estimate and subject to change
Day 1 - Rishikesh to Joshimath

Private Vehicle (Car or Sumo or Tempo Traveller)

Homestay

Lunch, Dinner
The team arrives at the pickup point by 5.30 to 6.00 AM. After everybody gets on board, a scenic drive through Garhwal Himalayans is on the way as we head towards Joshimath which serves as a base to a number of treks and religious places in Uttarakhand.
On arrival, we will be checked into our comfortable homestays. The afternoon will be left free so that you can have a rest and acclimatize or wander within the tranquil confines of this delightful mountain town.
Have a healthy dinner as the sun dips down the hills and rest there in Joshimath.
Day 2 - Drive from Joshimath to Tugasi; followed by Trek to Guling

Private Vehicle (Car or Sumo or Tempo Traveller)

Tents

All Meals
We will drive to Tugasi Village where we will begin our trip of trekking after an early breakfast. The trip has beautiful mountain views and once we get to the mountain tops, we would be starting our walk to the peak through a trail of mud through the serene Himalayan villages, miles away from the town.
The road to Guling begins easy though as we walk on a lush pine and rhododendron forest, the road becomes uphill. The moment we reach altitude, the terrain changes- providing the panoramic image of the neighboring valleys and the snow-capped mountains.
Once we reach Guling, we will take a lunch break, and after relaxing a bit, we will have some light games and activities to bond with other trekkers.
Enjoy dinner on a warm night under the stars and enjoy an overnight stay in our beautiful campsite in Guling.
Day 3 - Trek from Guling to Khullara

Travel Not Applicable

Tents

All Meals
Following a refreshing breakfast at the Guling campsite, we will set off, increasing in elevation gradually as we power through deep forests and alpine fields on our way up to the village of Khullara. The trail is very scenic, with an amazing contrast between deep green and high mountains and we will meet several steep parts as we hike up.
We will have packed lunch during the trip and have some rest on the way to enjoy the impressive views of the mountains.
When we get to Khullara Base Camp, we will set up a camp and relax. At nightfall you will also be amazed by clear skies studded with stars in crystal clarity - a magical Himalayan experience indeed.
Have a hot dinner and spend a night under the starlit sky in Khullara Base Camp.
Day 4 - Trek to Kuari Pass and descend to Khullara

Travel Not Applicable

Tents

All Meals
Today is the best part of our adventure, a long-anticipated climb to Kuari Pass. We start early in the morning to see the splendid golden sun rising over the majestic Himalayas. When getting to the pass, you will be rewarded with the breathtaking panorama of such architectural mountains as Nanda Devi, Nilkantha, Dronagiri, and awe-inspiring Chaukhamba Massif.
Spend some time appreciating the beautiful 360 Himalayan view, take pictures, and admire the peaceful silence of the mountains.
Having had a good time at the summit, we started making our way down to Khullara Base Camp. The descending trail is less strenuous so as to allow you to reflect on the breath-taking adventure.
Return to camp in the evening where hot dinner and well-deserved rest in tents under stars will follow.
Day 5 - Trek from Khullara to Tugasi and Drive to Joshimath

Private Vehicle

Homestay

All Meals
We set off early after breakfast to descend Khullara to Tugasi Village again following the peaceful path of the forests and alpine meadows. This downhill is the last chance to admire the lush vegetation, and the serenity of the mountains.
On the way we will stop and have a packed lunch and everyone can have a break and enjoy the environment.
As we arrive at Tugasi we get into our vehicles and drive comfortably through a short drive to Joshimath. Upon arrival, get into our already booked homestay and relax and have a warm dinner.
One night in Joshimath, remembering the amazing experiences of the trek.
Day 6 - Drive from Joshimath to Rishikesh

Private Vehicle

Stay Not Applicable

Breakfast
We have an early breakfast and say goodbye to the mountains before commencement of the drive to Rishikesh via Joshimath. The route is a picturesque downhill through Garhwal Himalaya, featured by viewing some conscriptions of holy rivers at Dev Prayag, Rudra Prayag, and Karn Prayag (all of them, both spiritually and visually exciting destinations).
During our journey to the river and up the hills, use this time to think about the wonderful journey and the friendship and relationships we have established in the process.
Once they arrive in Rishikesh, they will have to leave with a heart full of memories, and plenty of stories that one will remember throughout their lives.
Meet your host

Plan The Unplanned
- Verified Host
- Logout's Trusted
- Traveler's Choice
What’s life without adventure? Isn’t the real purpose of life to travel, to experience new places, and witness the sunrise from new mountaintops? This thought is what united Jatin and Tarun over a cup of chai, in spite of being from two unrelated backgrounds (CA and IT). They knew each other since the time Jatin was helping Tarun learn the ways of the wilderness through weekend treks and outings with another traveling group. Their love for traveling and trekking together motivated them to start something of their own. Thus was born “Plan The Unplanned”, where travel goals come true. Under the Companies Act, Plan The Unplanned is incorporated as Unplanned Journeys Private Limited They started their journey on unsteady ground, much like any other company, but they shared an infatuation for travel and adventure with their customers, which amplified their determination, and thus, Plan the Unplanned family keeps getting bigger every day! Just about any travel idea can come alive with Plan The Unplanned…treks, adventure activities like rock climbing, kayaking, rafting, backpacking trips across the country, cultural outings, photo walks; everything that fellow travelers need, to explore the great outdoors together. Well now that the wanderlust has kicked in and you can already see a vacation in your nearest future, here’s what we have to offer!
See Plan The Unplanned's other listingsInclusions
- Round-trip via non-AC tempo traveller or taxi (based on group size)
- Cozy accommodation for 4 nights on triple sharing basis (homestay/tents)
- On a sharing basis with separate zones for men and women
- Tent, sleeping bags, mattresses, dining tent, and toilet tent provided
- Vegetarian meals included (from dinner on day 1 to lunch on day 5)
- Bonfire (subject to weather conditions)
- All forest permits and fees
- Driver Allowances, toll taxes, parking, state taxes.
- Experienced trek leaders, cooks, and support staff
- Basic safety equipment: first aid kit, oxygen cylinders, etc.
- The overall experience that you gain during the trek
Important information:
Our treks are conducted in collaboration with trusted local partners registered with ATOAI (Adventure Tour Operators Association of India). These teams bring 20+ years of collective experience and have been working closely with us for over a decade. All on-ground operations, safety measures, and logistics are handled by professional local guides and BMC-certified trek leaders from the base location.
When there are 8 or more bookings from Bangalore, a Plan The Unplanned (PTU) leader will accompany the group to enhance your experience.
Note: To optimise resources, PTU travel groups may be clubbed with fellow trekkers booked through our local partners. We ensure a PTU-exclusive batch when a majority of the seats are reserved by PTU guests.
Exclusions
- Any meals beyond those listed
- Any kind of personal expenses
- Fees and permits applicable for foreign nationals.
- Any expenses arising from unforeseen contingencies such as landslides, curfew, government orders, or natural disasters
- Any expenses related to medical evacuation
- Flight cancellation charges due to delays or any other reason
- Anything not expressly mentioned in the inclusions
Things to carry
✅ Soft copy of your Aadhaar or Voter ID (mandatory for permits)
✅ A comfortable pair of trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support (no sneakers or sports shoes)
✅ 55 litre backpack with sturdy straps and a rain cover
✅ 20-30 litre foldable daypack for summit day essentials
✅ Warm layers, thermals, jackets, regular socks, and woollen socks
✅ Lightweight trek pants, quick dry tees, and a quick dry towel
✅ Sunglasses, sun cap, and sunscreen for sun protection
✅ Hand gloves to keep your fingers warm
✅ Torch or headlamp for visibility at night (mandatory)
✅ Personal basic medical
✅ Trekking pole to support your walk
✅ Extra cash for any meals not covered in your itinerary
✅ Compact raincoat or backpack cover to stay dry
✅ Power bank and charging cable for your phone
✅ Portable chargers for other electronics
✅ Sandals or Floaters for lazing around the campsite
✅ Extra pairs of clothes to change into
✅ Poly bags to pack your wet clothes/travel laundry bag
✅ 2x one litre water bottles
Policy and more
Here's the cancellation policy for Himalayan Treks/Backpacking Trips/Road Trips
- If you cancel before 30 days - 90% of amount will be refunded
- If you cancel between 20 -30 days - 75% % of amount will be refunded
- If you cancel between 15-19 days - 50% will be refunded
- If you cancel between 7-14 days - 25 % amount will be refunded
- If you cancel between 0- 7 days before the departure date - No amount would be refunded.
Note: For All The Above Refund Cases Transaction Fees/Internet Handling Charges will be dedcuted from the overall amount and balance amount shall be refunded. You can transfer your ticket to anyone so that you could save your hard earned money
For other trips and travels with us, and detailed terms and conditions check the following link : https://www.plantheunplanned.com/refund-cancellation-policy
Terms and Conditions
The purchase of any travel services offered by PLAN THE UNPLANNED (hereinafter referred as ‘PTU’) constitutes a contractual arrangement between PTU (‘First Party’) and Client (hereinafter referred as ‘You’) (‘Second Party’). Booking of services with PTU represents your unconditional acceptance of the terms & conditions set out herein. These terms and conditions shall be binding on you and all the travel companions booked by you.
Trekking and other outdoor activities provided by the PTU depend on various factors and have inherent risks associated with life. PTU does its best to reduce all types of risks, discomfort, and hazard to the best of its ability (within financial constraints), yet there are chances of accidents, mishaps, and deficiency in service.
Please ensure that you read carefully and understand these terms prior to confirming your booking.
Promotions
Pictures used on the website and collateral are meant for marketing purposes. These do not imply the inclusion of the pictorial content to be a part of your vacation or any guarantee that you will experience, encounter or view whatever is depicted through the pictures.
Fitness Responsibility
PTU offers trip(s) and trek(s) that require varying levels of fitness. The level of difficulty can be based on the extent of physical stress, the terrain, weather, and/or climate. The degree of difficulty for some trips can be physically demanding. To enable you to choose appropriately and prepare accordingly, carefully review the level of difficulty of each trip before booking the same.
PTU doesn’t have any medical expert(s) and it is your responsibility to obtain medical advice, latest health requirements including inoculations and vaccines before you join a trip. PTU takes no responsibility for your inability to cope with the level of difficulty on a trip. While there is no age limitation on any PTU trips, any disability, pregnancy, mental or physical, or any other medical condition that may affect your fitness to complete the trek must be revealed at the time of booking the trip to PTU. You also undertake that you and Your travel companions, for whom You have signed up, do not suffer from any condition or disability that could create a hazard to Your own wellbeing or to others on a trip.
Program Dates
You are solely responsible for verifying the correct dates mentioned on the travel documents.
Itinerary
PTU reserves the right to modify or cancel the trip or part of the trip under circumstances, including but not limiting to Acts of God, road blockage, political unrest, sickness, accidents, events beyond PTU’s control etc. Any extra cost arising from such circumstances shall be borne by you on the spot. Wherever possible, PTU shall intimate you of such changes in advance or while on the trip.
Luggage Responsibility
Baggage and personal effects are at your risk throughout the trip. You are solely responsible for your personal belongings while on the trip. PTU is not responsible for the loss of baggage, goods, air tickets, passport, cash, traveler’s cheques, or any other travel document or item owned by you while on tour, whatever the cause.
On-trip Behaviour
You are required to behave in a manner that is acceptable and conducive to group travel. PTU reserves the right to terminate your trip (if you are found to be causing distress/annoyance to co-travelers, endanger/damage property of any supplier or of other traveling companions), without assigning any reason whatsoever. No refund for unused services is possible in such cases.
You also agree to abide by the authority of the group leader designated by PTU. The decision of the tour leader is binding on all participants on matters that affect the safety or well-being of any person participating in the trip. Behavior that causes danger, distress, or annoyance to others, or interferes with the mobility of the group can result in the group leader terminating your participation from the trip, with no right to refund for missed or unused services.
Protect The Environment
The entire trip/ trek would be through natural trails and we would spend most of the time in eerie forests, serene valleys, soothing hillsides, or at golden beaches. You should know that it’s your duty to protect the environment and not create nuisances on the way by throwing your plastic materials and other wastes like packets of chips or wrappers of chocolates. PTU shall not consider any such behavior towards nature. We expect you to be responsible and aware adults.
No Smoking Or Alcohol Consumption
PTU doesn’t support smoking or any sort of alcohol consumption during the journey and as a team, we earnestly request you to not indulge in those practices while you are with us. Smoking is not only injurious to your health but also equally bad for nature. We should ensure that there’s sustainable natural conservation and our acts, in no way, hampers that. Also, alcohol consumption might ruin your experience as well as cause discomfort to your fellow mates. No action of smoking or drinking shall be tolerated by PTU during the trip/trek.
Amenities
PTU makes every effort to ensure the comfort of our guests, but PTU requests you to understand that the amenities around the trekking region may not be the same as the ones you are accustomed to, at home. Weather is another factor that will have a direct impact on your journey. Hence, you are requested to have patience, enthusiasm and be prepared for compromising, before you choose to undertake this journey.
Awareness
You accept that the very nature of active, adventure travel requires a degree of personal risk. You are likely to visit places where political, cultural, and geographical attributes might pose certain risks, dangers, and physical challenges. By booking a tour with PTU, you accept that you are aware of the personal risks, dangers, and challenges that might arise and that you are aware of the risks involved. You hereby assume all such risk and release PTU from all claims and causes of action arising from such damages or injuries or death resulting from these inherent risks. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with customs, weather conditions, physical challenges, and laws in effect as well as your local embassy contacts in each destination.
Emergency Situations
In the event you fall ill or suffer an accident during the trip, all hospital expenses, doctor fees, repatriation expenses, evacuation from road or mountain, any other charges incurred as a direct or indirect result of your illness/accident are your responsibility.
Photography Rights
PTU reserves the right to take photographs of you during the trip and to use them for promotional purposes. By booking a trip with us, you automatically grant us a royalty-free, perpetual, worldwide, and irrevocable license for using your images in photographs and videos that may be used for promotional material, website, social media, collateral, and any other marketing and publicity materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve booked my trip. When will I hear from you next?
You’ll get an event heads-up email by Thursday of the trip week. It includes:
- Exact pickup points with timings
- Your Outdoor Leader’s name and phone number
- A quick list of do’s & don’ts
Will I be added to a WhatsApp Group once the trip is confirmed?
Yes. In the heads-up email, we will share a link to a dedicated WhatsApp group so you can chat with fellow travellers and your Outdoor Leader before departure.
What is the “Without Travel” option?
Choosing “Without Travel” all the travel arrangements for your entire itinerary must be self-managed From getting to the start point, local transfers, and the return journey. Please note that Plan the Unplanned crew will not be responsible for your travel, means of transport, and any transfers involved . We recommend driving your own car for the full duration of the trip for maximum flexibility.
I’m travelling solo. Can I still join?
Absolutely. Our trips are designed keeping solo travellers in mind. You’ll join an easy-going group and usually leave with new friends.
Are your trips safe for women?
On all of our trips, safety is non-negotiable and our priority. Female outdoor leaders accompany every group. We assure you that the homestays/tent accommodations are secure. In addition to this, we guarantee separate sleeping arrangements for men and women.
If I miss the departure, can I postpone my booking?
Yes. You can reschedule to any future date of the same trip for a ₹1,500 per-person change fee. Email [email protected] and our team will get in touch with you.
How do I get a discount on trips?
For more information on discounts, we request you to check out our Gypsy Membership here: plantheunplanned.com/membership
Can I leave my extra luggage at the accommodation?
Yes, you can store your main bags at the accommodation and carry only your essentials on the trip.
What kind of fitness is required for your treks?
Most of our treks are beginner-friendly and designed for people with moderate fitness levels. However, some treks may involve challenging terrains or long durations. Please check the difficulty level mentioned on each trip page and ensure you’re prepared accordingly.
What’s your cancellation and refund policy?
Please note:
✅ We accept and confirm cancellations only over email — not via phone or WhatsApp.
✅ Refer to the Cancellation Policy under the relevant trip page for trip-specific details before making any changes.
✅ You can also reschedule your booking for a future date by paying a small change fee.
For assistance, write to us at [email protected] — we’re happy to help!
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