From Kuari to Bali: 15 Trekkable Passes in Uttarakhand You Can Conquer

Uttarakhand offers a wide range of trekking destinations thanks to its rich Himalayan geography. The mountain passes in this region are not just routes between valleys; they are living trails filled with history, cultural encounters, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you are a beginner looking for something accessible or a seasoned trekker in search of a high-altitude challenge, the Garhwal and Kumaon Himalayas are full of adventures waiting to be explored. From lush meadows to snow-covered ridges, each pass offers its own unique story.

1. Kuari Pass

Known as one of the most popular Himalayan trekking destinations in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Kuari Pass offers sweeping views of the Garhwal Himalayas, including Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Kamet. The trail is accessible from the villages of Dhak and Tugasi and climbs to a maximum altitude of 12,500 ft (3,800 m) over a 33 km loop. In winter, the entire route turns into a snowland, while spring and autumn bring vibrant meadows and clear skies. The trek is graded easy to moderate, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Along the way, you can enjoy the alpine beauty of Gorson Bugyal and the charm of Auli’s slopes.

2. Bali Pass

Bali Pass is a thrilling high-altitude crossing at 16,200 ft (4,940 m) that links the Har Ki Dun Valley with Yamunotri. This trek is known for its steep ascents, snowfields, and panoramic views of Bandarpoonch and Swargarohini peaks. The journey takes you through ancient villages like Osla and Seema, where traditional wooden houses and mountain culture still thrive. The alpine meadows near the pass bloom with wildflowers in summer, while in early autumn the crisp air and clear skies make for perfect photography conditions. Completing this trek also allows you to explore the Yamunotri Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites.

3. Rupin Pass

Rupin Pass, sitting at 15,250 ft (4,650 m), is a dramatic cross-border trek between Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. The route is famous for its changing landscapes from pine forests and hanging villages to massive waterfalls and snowy ridges. Trekkers often marvel at the “Rupin Waterfall campsite,” which feels like something out of a painting. The final climb to the pass is steep and snow-covered, offering rewarding views of Kinnaur Kailash on the other side. On the Uttarakhand side, Dhaula village serves as a peaceful starting point, while Sangla Valley in Himachal is a stunning conclusion to the trek.

4. Auden’s Col

Auden’s Col is one of the toughest and most remote passes in the Garhwal Himalayas, standing at a staggering 18,010 ft (5,490 m). This challenging route connects the pilgrimage towns of Gangotri and Kedarnath, passing through glaciers, deep snow, and rocky moraines. The trek offers exceptional views of Gangotri III, Jogin I, and Rudragaira peaks, but it demands high-altitude experience and mountaineering skills. Along the way, you may visit the sacred Gangotri Temple and, after completing the crossing, the Kedarnath Temple making this trek as much a spiritual journey as a physical challenge.

5. Mayali Pass

Mayali Pass, at 16,200 ft (4,940 m), offers an exciting link between the Bhilangana Valley and the Kedarnath Valley. The trek passes crystal-clear lakes such as Vasuki Tal and Masar Tal, each reflecting the surrounding peaks like Thalay Sagar and Kedar Dome. Snow often lingers well into summer, and the route provides both adventure and tranquility. Starting from Ghuttu village, trekkers move through dense forests before emerging into alpine zones. Completing the trek can be paired with a visit to the Kedarnath Temple, adding cultural depth to the adventure.

6. Lamkhaga Pass

Lamkhaga Pass is one of the highest and most remote passes in the Garhwal Himalayas, perched at 17,320 ft (5,280 m). This route connects Harsil in Uttarakhand to Chitkul in Himachal Pradesh and involves navigating glaciers, steep snow slopes, and crevassed terrain. The pass is surrounded by pristine landscapes untouched by mass tourism. Starting in the apple orchards of Harsil and ending in Chitkul, the last village of India on the Indo-Tibet border, the trek offers a unique mix of natural and cultural beauty.

7. Borasu Pass

At 17,224 ft (5,250 m), Borasu Pass is a challenging crossing between Har Ki Dun and the Baspa Valley in Himachal Pradesh. This high-altitude route offers a rich combination of alpine meadows, glacial basins, and rocky moraines. The trek begins in the culturally rich Har Ki Dun Valley, with its wooden homes and fields, and ends in the vibrant Chitkul village. The remoteness of the pass ensures solitude and a deep sense of wilderness for experienced trekkers.

8. Pindari Glacier and Trail Pass

While Pindari Glacier is the main attraction, the surrounding trails connect to smaller, less-known passes in Kumaon. This easy-to-moderate trek takes you through Khati, the last inhabited village in the valley, before reaching the glacier’s snout. The landscapes are lush in summer, with streams and meadows framed by snow peaks. On clear days, you can see peaks like Nanda Devi East in the distance, adding grandeur to the journey.

9. Kalindi Khal

Kalindi Khal, at 19,520 ft (5,950 m), is a legendary and extreme Himalayan crossing linking Gangotri to Badrinath. This expedition-level trek traverses vast glaciers, deep snowfields, and high rocky passes, with non-stop views of towering peaks. It requires serious preparation, technical gear, and previous high-altitude experience. Along the way, you can witness sacred sites like Gaumukh, the source of the Ganges, and Vasudhara Falls near Badrinath.

10. Dhumdhar Kandi Pass

Dhumdhar Kandi stands at 18,011 ft (5,489 m) and connects the Bhagirathi and Yamuna valleys. The trek’s remoteness and wild beauty make it a thrilling adventure for seasoned trekkers. Snowfields, hanging glaciers, and sharp ridges dominate the scenery, with peaks like Bandarpoonch and Swargarohini towering above. Starting near Gangotri, the trail eventually leads towards the Yamunotri region, offering both natural beauty and cultural heritage.

11. Sin La Pass

Sin La, at 18,520 ft (5,644 m), lies in the Pithoragarh district and forms part of an old trade route to Tibet. The trek passes through Byans Valley, known for its terraced fields and traditional villages. The high-altitude crossing opens to magnificent views of the Kumaon Himalayas. Because of its remoteness, the trail remains largely untouched, making it ideal for trekkers seeking solitude.

12. Mangshan Pass

Mangshan Pass is a lesser-known gem in the Kumaon Himalayas, offering pristine natural beauty and cultural encounters with remote communities. The trek includes moderate climbs through forests, meadows, and alpine terrain. Munsiyari serves as the base, a charming town with views of the Panchachuli peaks. The sense of isolation and the scenery make this trek rewarding for those willing to go off the beaten path.

13. Gidara Bugyal Pass

This pass is part of a scenic meadow trek in Uttarkashi, offering 360-degree Himalayan views. The vast alpine meadows of Gidara Bugyal are among the largest in India and remain largely crowd-free. The trek moves from oak and rhododendron forests to expansive grasslands, making it a favorite for nature photography. Clear days reveal snow peaks stretching across the horizon.

14. Khatling Glacier Pass

The Khatling Glacier trek, leading through high passes, is an adventure in Tehri Garhwal surrounded by peaks like Jogin, Sphetic Pristwar, and Kirti Stambh. The trail includes riverside paths, dense forests, and glacial terrain. Ghuttu village serves as the starting point, and en route you can explore pristine alpine lakes and the Sahastratal region. The views are unmatched in their raw beauty.

15. Panwali Kantha Pass

Panwali Kantha is a meadow-rich trek connecting the Kedarnath and Gangotri regions. The rolling ridges are covered in seasonal wildflowers in summer and golden grass in autumn. Trekkers can enjoy long panoramic stretches of snow peaks while following ancient pilgrimage trails. This trek offers a moderate challenge and can be combined with visits to Kedarnath and Gaurikund for a blend of adventure and spirituality.

FAQ

1. Which is the easiest trek among these passes in Uttarakhand?

Kuari Pass and Panwali Kantha Pass are among the easiest, suitable for beginners who want to enjoy Himalayan views without extreme difficulty.

2. Which trek offers the best snow experience?

Kuari Pass in winter becomes a magical snowland, while Bali Pass and Borasu Pass offer snow crossings in late spring.

3. What is the highest pass on this list?

Kalindi Khal is the highest at about 19,520 ft (5,950 m) and is considered an expedition-level trek requiring technical skills.

4. Can beginners attempt high-altitude passes like Bali or Rupin?

These passes are moderate to difficult and require prior trekking experience at altitudes above 12,000 ft. Beginners should first try easier treks like Kuari Pass.

5. Which treks are best for cultural experiences along with natural beauty?

Bali Pass, Borasu Pass, and Panwali Kantha Pass pass through remote villages, offering rich insights into Garhwali and Himachali culture.

6. What is the best season to trek in Uttarakhand’s high passes?

May–June and September–October are the most popular seasons for most passes, offering clear skies and stable conditions.