• Offices: Dehradun | Dwarka New Delhi

Dharansi Pass

Dharansi Pass in Chamoli, Uttarakhand - a scenic high-altitude trek in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve with majestic Himalayan views and rich biodiversity.


Dharansi Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and lies in the Garhwal Himalayas. This pass is a hidden gem for trekking lovers, offering unmatched natural beauty, peace, and panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi (7,816 m), Dunagiri, and Rishi Pahar.

The pass is not just a physical trail but a spiritual journey through one of the most protected and sacred zones in the Himalayas. The trek to Dharansi Pass is often a part of the Nanda Devi Inner Sanctuary trek, although access to the inner sanctuary is highly restricted due to conservation rules.

Where is Dharansi Pass Located?

Dharansi Pass is located within the Nanda Devi National Park, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It lies to the north of Joshimath town, and falls on the route leading towards Lata Kharak, Tolma Village, and Dibrugheta, which are part of the larger trail leading to the sanctuary’s outer rim.

The pass stands at an altitude of approximately 4,250 metres (13,943 feet) above sea level. It is surrounded by alpine meadows, glaciers, deep gorges, and tall peaks, making the region a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts and trekkers.

The area is ecologically sensitive and comes under strict forest regulations, meaning entry requires special permits from the Forest Department of Uttarakhand and is usually done in small guided groups.

How to Reach Dharansi Pass?

Reaching Dharansi Pass involves multiple steps, including road travel and a high-altitude trek. Here’s how you can plan the route:

1. Reach Joshimath (Base Town):

  • By Road:
    Joshimath is well connected by road and can be reached via Rishikesh, Haridwar or Dehradun.
    • Haridwar to Joshimath – around 275 km (10–12 hours by bus or cab)
    • Rishikesh to Joshimath – around 250 km
      You can find shared taxis, buses, or hire a private vehicle.
  • By Train:
    The nearest railway station is Haridwar Railway Station. From there, continue the journey by road.
  • By Air:
    The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (around 270 km from Joshimath). You can take a taxi or bus from the airport to Joshimath.

2. Joshimath to Lata Village (Road + Trek):

From Joshimath, travel by road for around 25 km to reach Lata Village, the gateway to the Nanda Devi National Park.

3. Lata to Dharansi Pass (Trek):

  • The trek starts from Lata Village and moves through Lata Kharak, Saini Kharak, Jhandi Dhar, Dibrugheta, and finally reaches Dharansi Pass.
  • The total trekking distance is around 30–35 km and usually takes 5–6 days to complete.
  • The trail is steep, remote, and physically demanding, so good fitness is important.

Note: Since the area is protected, only a limited number of trekkers are allowed each year. You must take a guide approved by the forest department and get permission from the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) in Joshimath.

Related Uttarakhand Tourism Posts - Passes of Uttarakhand

1. Auden's Col Mountain Pass 2. Balcha Dhura Pass 3. Bali Pass 4. Bamsaru Khal Pass 5. Barmai Pass 6. Bhyundar Khal Pass 7. Bishali Col Pass 8. Borasu Pass 9. Danu Dhura Pass 10. Darwa Pass 11. Dharansi Pass 12. Dhumdhar Kandi Pass 13. Fachu Kandi Pass 14. Gupt Khal Pass 15. Junargali Pass 16. Kalindi Khal Pass 17. Kanakata Pass 18. Kankul Pass 19. Kuari Pass 20. Kunth Khal Pass 21. Lamkhaga Pass 22. Lampiya Dhura Pass 23. Lipu Lekh Pass 24. Mahapanth Col Pass 25. Mana Pass 26. Mangsha Dhura Pass 27. Mayali Pass 28. Nalgan Pass 29. Nama Pass Pithoragarh 30. Niti Pass 31. Panpatia Col Pass 32. Ralam Dhura Pass 33. Rupin Pass 34. Sin La Pass Pithoragarh 35. Singha Ghati Pass 36. Traill’s Pass 37. Tunjun Pass 38. Unta Dhura Pass 39. Yeonbuk Col Pass


Categories