Tunjun Pass

Tunjun Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. Nestled deep in the Himalayas, it is one of the lesser-known but stunning passes that connect remote valleys and villages. The pass lies close to the India–Tibet border and is surrounded by snow-covered peaks, alpine meadows, and wild landscapes.

For trekkers and adventure lovers, Tunjun Pass is like a hidden treasure. Unlike popular passes such as Rohtang or Nathu La, this pass is quiet, untouched, and far from crowds. Travelling here gives you a true Himalayan experience where nature is raw and beautiful.

The word “Tunjun” is often linked with traditional routes that were once used by local people and traders to move between valleys. It is also an important grazing area for the local shepherds of Chamoli who bring their sheep and goats here during summer. Today, the pass is slowly becoming popular among trekkers who are looking for offbeat trails.

Where is Tunjun Pass Located?

Tunjun Pass is located in Chamoli district, in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Chamoli is a vast district that is home to many famous places like Badrinath, Hemkund Sahib, Valley of Flowers, Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, and Mana village.

The pass lies at a very high altitude (over 5,000 metres above sea level), making it one of the higher passes in the region. Because of its height, it is snow-covered for most of the year. The landscape here changes with altitude – you will see green meadows (called Bugyals), rocky paths, glaciers, and finally endless snow near the top.

Geographically, Tunjun Pass is close to the Indo-Tibetan border. The area around it is remote and less populated. Small villages and seasonal camps of shepherds can be seen in the lower parts, but near the pass, only trekkers and locals visit.

How to Reach Tunjun Pass?

Reaching Tunjun Pass is not easy because it is not connected by direct roads. The journey involves both road travel and trekking.

1. By Air:
   • The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (about 300 km from Chamoli). From the airport, you need to travel by road towards the Joshimath or Badrinath side.
2. By Train:
   • The closest railway station is Rishikesh (around 270 km from Chamoli). Trains from major cities of India come here. From Rishikesh, buses and taxis are available for the Chamoli district.
3. By Road:
   • Chamoli is well connected by road to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, and Delhi. You can reach Joshimath or nearby towns first. Joshimath is a main base for many treks in Chamoli district.
4. Trekking Route:
   • From Joshimath or nearby villages, the trek towards Tunjun Pass begins. The route goes through remote valleys, dense forests, rivers, and high-altitude meadows. It usually takes 5–7 days of trekking to cross the pass, depending on the chosen trail.
   • Local guides are highly recommended because the trail is not marked properly and the terrain is difficult. Trekkers need to carry camping equipment, food, and proper clothing.

Best Time to Visit Tunjun Pass

The best time to visit Tunjun Pass is summer and early autumn – from June to September. During this period, the snow melts enough to open the trail. The weather is also stable, with clear skies and beautiful views of surrounding peaks.

• June to July: Meadows are green and filled with wildflowers. Shepherds bring their animals here, giving the trail a lively feel.
• August to September: The sky is clear, offering panoramic views of snow peaks. This is also the safest time for trekking.

Other Seasons:

• Winter (October to May): Heavy snowfall blocks the pass. Temperatures drop extremely low, making it impossible for normal travel. Only trained mountaineers with special equipment can attempt it during this time.
• Monsoon (July-end to August): The lower parts of Chamoli receive heavy rainfall. Landslides and slippery paths make travel risky.

So, if you are planning to visit, choose a window between late June and September.

Tunjun Pass in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, is not just a trekking destination, but a journey into the raw beauty of the Himalayas. With its high altitude, untouched landscapes, and cultural richness, it offers a unique adventure for those who love exploring offbeat places. Though challenging, the experience is rewarding – snow peaks, green meadows, and the silence of the mountains leave memories for a lifetime.

If you are an experienced trekker looking for a hidden Himalayan gem, Tunjun Pass is the perfect choice. Plan wisely, prepare well, and step into the wild beauty of Chamoli.