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Kuari Pass

Kuari Pass or Curzon Trail in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, India - a scenic Himalayan trek with stunning views, easy routes, how to reach, and the best time to visit.


Kuari Pass is a beautiful mountain pass located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is a popular trekking destination in the Indian Himalayas. Kuari means "doorway" or "gate," and this pass is like a gateway to the snow-covered Himalayan peaks. It is also known as the Curzon Trail, named after Lord Curzon, the British Viceroy of India, who trekked here in 1905.

Kuari Pass is surrounded by grand Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi (India’s second-highest mountain), Dronagiri, Hathi-Ghoda Parvat, Kamet, and Chaukhamba. It offers breath-taking views of these mountains, thick oak forests, lush green meadows (called "bugyals"), and peaceful campsites.

It is a perfect trek for nature lovers, photographers, and beginner trekkers. During winter, the trail is covered with snow, making it even more magical. In every season, Kuari Pass shows a different kind of beauty.

Where is Kuari Pass Located?

Kuari Pass is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Chamoli district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The pass is part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and lies at an altitude of around 3,650 metres (11,975 feet) above sea level.

It lies between Joshimath and Ghat regions in Chamoli and is surrounded by dense forests of oak and rhododendron, as well as wide meadows and alpine lakes.

Joshimath, the nearest town, is the base for the Kuari Pass trek and is well connected by road to other parts of Uttarakhand.

How to Reach Kuari Pass?

Reaching Kuari Pass involves both road travel and trekking. Here's a simple step-by-step guide:

1. By Air:

  • Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 270 km from Joshimath).
  • From the airport, take a taxi or bus to Joshimath.

2. By Train:

  • Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar or Rishikesh (around 250–270 km away).
  • From Haridwar or Rishikesh, you can take a shared jeep, private taxi, or bus to reach Joshimath.

3. By Road:

  • Regular buses and shared taxis are available from Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun to Joshimath.
  • It takes about 9–10 hours to reach Joshimath by road from Rishikesh.

4. Trekking Route:

  • The actual Kuari Pass Trek starts from a small village called Dhak, which is about 12 km from Joshimath.
  • From Dhak, trekkers follow a multi-day trail passing through places like Gulling, Tali, and Khullara, and finally reach Kuari Pass.

This trek usually takes 4 to 6 days, depending on the route and pace. Some trekkers also combine this trek with Auli, a nearby ski destination.

Best Time to Visit Kuari Pass

The Kuari Pass trek can be done in two main seasons – Spring/Summer and Winter.

1. Spring and Summer (March to June):

  • This is the best time for clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
  • You can enjoy green meadows, blooming rhododendrons, and pleasant weather.
  • Daytime temperatures are between 10°C to 20°C.
  • Nights are cooler but not freezing.

2. Autumn and Winter (October to March):

  • October and November offer crystal clear mountain views.
  • From December to March, the trek is covered with snow.
  • It becomes a favourite for snow trekkers and adventure seekers.
  • Winter temperatures can drop below -5°C at night, so good winter gear is needed.
  • The snowy landscape and white meadows look magical during this time.

Monsoon Season (July to September):

  • It is not recommended to trek during the monsoon due to heavy rains, slippery paths, and landslides.

Kuari Pass in Chamoli is one of the most beautiful and rewarding treks in the Indian Himalayas. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced trekker, the trail welcomes you with open arms. The combination of snow-capped mountains, deep forests, green meadows, and peaceful campsites makes it a journey you will never forget. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Kuari Pass – the "doorway" to the Himalayas!

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


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