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Traill’s Pass

Explore Traill’s Pass in Uttarakhand – a high-altitude trek linking Pithoragarh and Bageshwar. Learn how to reach, the best time to visit and trekking tips.


Traill’s Pass is one of the oldest and most difficult mountain passes in the Indian Himalayas. It is located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand and connects the Pithoragarh district with the Bageshwar district. The pass lies at an altitude of around 5,312 metres (17,428 feet) above sea level and is also known as Pindari Kanda.

Traill’s Pass is named after G.W. Traill, a British administrator and the first European to cross it in 1830. The trail passes through breathtaking valleys, snow-covered peaks, remote villages, and glaciers. This pass lies near the Pindari Glacier and offers magnificent views of peaks like Nanda Devi (7,816 m), Nanda Kot (6,861 m), and Changuch (6,322 m).

This trek is considered one of the most challenging in Uttarakhand and is suitable for only highly experienced trekkers and mountaineers due to steep climbs, crevasses, and high altitudes.

Where is Traill’s Pass Located?

Traill’s Pass lies between Pithoragarh and Bageshwar districts in the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand, India. It sits on the eastern edge of the Pindari Glacier, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.

  • Starting Point (Approach from Bageshwar side): The journey to Traill’s Pass usually begins from Loharkhet, a small village in Bageshwar district.
  • End Point (Approach from Pithoragarh side): The exit from the pass leads towards Milam valley in Pithoragarh district.
  • Coordinates: Approximately 30.285° N, 80.032° E

How to Reach Traill’s Pass?

1. By Air:

  • Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (approx. 206 km from Bageshwar).
  • From Pantnagar, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bageshwar.

2. By Train:

  • Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (approx. 180 km from Bageshwar).
  • Regular trains connect Kathgodam with Delhi and other major cities.
  • From Kathgodam, one can take a taxi or bus to Bageshwar.

3. By Road:

  • Bageshwar is well connected by roads to Almora, Haldwani, and Kathgodam.
  • From Bageshwar, drive or take a jeep to Loharkhet, the trek's base camp.

Best Time to Visit Traill’s Pass

Due to high altitude and extreme weather conditions, Traill’s Pass is open for trekking only during a limited period.

Ideal Months:

  • Late May to Early June
  • September to Mid-October

Seasonal Information:

  • Summer (May–June): Clear skies, moderate weather, but melting snow makes the glacier slushy.
  • Post-Monsoon (September–October): Best time with stable weather, clear views, and safe glacier conditions.
  • Monsoon (July–August): Avoid this season due to heavy rain, landslides, and risk of floods.
  • Winter (November–April): Not suitable. The pass remains snow-covered and inaccessible.

Traill’s Pass is a dream trek for serious adventure lovers who are ready to face extreme challenges and enjoy the untouched beauty of the high Himalayas. With its historical importance, awe-inspiring landscape, and the thrill of glacier walking and climbing, Traill’s Pass offers an unforgettable experience.

However, it is not for everyone. This trek demands excellent physical and mental preparation, along with technical support. But for those who dare, it is one of the most rewarding journeys in Uttarakhand.

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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