Kankul Pass

Kankul Pass is a beautiful and lesser-known mountain pass located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is part of the Kagbhusandi Tal – Kankul Pass Trek, which is a thrilling and scenic trek in the Garhwal Himalayas. The pass sits at a high altitude, offering breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. This trek is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those who want to explore an untouched part of the Himalayas.

The trail to Kankul Pass is rich in natural beauty, full of wildflowers, thick forests, and peaceful surroundings. It also has religious significance due to its proximity to the sacred lake Kagbhusandi Tal, which is believed to be connected to Lord Garuda in Hindu mythology. Since this route is off the beaten path, it is perfect for those who prefer solitude and wilderness over crowds.

Where is Kankul Pass Located?

Kankul Pass is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, which is part of the Garhwal region in northern India. It lies within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, near the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib, two popular tourist and pilgrimage destinations.

The pass is situated at an altitude of approximately 4,500 metres (14,764 feet) above sea level. It acts as a natural route between the Kagbhusandi Valley and the Dronagiri region. The trail also offers views of majestic peaks such as Hathi Parvat, Nilgiri, and Dronagiri.

How to Reach Kankul Pass

To reach Kankul Pass, one has to first travel to Joshimath, a well-known town in Chamoli district. Joshimath is well connected by road and serves as the base for many treks in the region.

Step-by-Step Travel Guide:

1. Reach Rishikesh or Haridwar:
   These are the nearest major railway stations. They are well connected to major Indian cities like Delhi and Dehradun.
2. Travel to Joshimath (by road):
   From Rishikesh or Haridwar, take a bus or hire a taxi to Joshimath. The journey takes around 9–10 hours and covers approximately 250–270 km through winding mountain roads and beautiful scenery.
3. Base Village – Govindghat or Vishnuprayag:
   From Joshimath, you proceed to a base village like Govindghat, Vishnuprayag, or Bhyundar, depending on your trekking route. These villages are a few hours’ drive from Joshimath.
4. Start the Trek:
   The trek to Kagbhusandi Tal is challenging and usually takes 5–7 days, depending on your pace and itinerary. From Kagbhusandi Tal, trekkers proceed toward Kankul Pass. This section requires proper gear, fitness, and preferably an experienced guide.

Note: There are no motorable roads to the pass itself. It is accessible only by foot through high-altitude trekking.

Best Time to Visit Kankul Pass

The best time to visit Kankul Pass is during the summer and early autumn months, from mid-June to mid-October.

Season-wise Breakdown:

• June to July:
  The snow begins to melt, and the trail becomes accessible. Alpine meadows are full of colourful wildflowers. This is also when the nearby Valley of Flowers is at its best.
• August to September:
  Though monsoon brings some rain, the valley becomes lush and green. Post-monsoon skies are clearer, offering beautiful views of the mountains.
• October (Early):
  Before winter sets in, October offers crisp air and clear skies, making it a great time for photography and peaceful trekking.

Avoid:

• Late October to May:
  The region receives heavy snowfall and the trekking route becomes dangerous and inaccessible due to snow and extreme cold.

Kankul Pass in Chamoli is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the raw, untouched beauty of the Himalayas. Its connection with the sacred Kagbhusandi Tal and the challenging but mesmerising trekking route make it a must-visit for adventure lovers. Far from the commercial trekking routes, Kankul Pass promises serenity, natural wonders, and a spiritual connection with nature.

If you are seeking an offbeat trekking experience filled with magic, mystery, and majestic mountains, Kankul Pass is waiting for you.