The Guide To Kugti Pass Trek
Not many trekkers have heard of the Kugti Pass trek and it is not surprising why. It is virtually unexplored – and perhaps that is its beauty – one of the unknown treks of India, yet marked with all the grandness of any great Himalayan trek.If you love trekking, then the Kugti Pass is a trek that needs to be a priority in your treks for the future.The Kugti pass trek is rare and remote – On the lower trails the trek winds through acres of apple orchards, pine forests and over miles of green meadows. Waterfalls are everywhere. Campsites spring out next to streams and green grass. On the higher slopes, the trail weaves through snowfields, glaciers, and icefalls. The thrill of high altitude is intoxicating.
- It is virtually unexplored – and perhaps that is its beauty – one of the unknown treks of India, yet marked with all the grandness of any great Himalayan trek.
- On the lower trails the trek winds through acres of apple orchards, pine forests and over miles of green meadows. Waterfalls are everywhere.
- Camp sites spring out next to streams and green grass. On the higher slopes, the trail weaves through snow fields, glaciers and icefalls. The thrill of high altitude is intoxicating.
➤ Trail Information
The trek starts at Bharmour, a bustling well connected town, 65 kms from Chamba. It is easy to get to Bharmour. Take any bus to Chamba from Pathankot, and then another connecting bus to Bharmour.
Bharmour has many places to stay and the wisest thing is to find a place to stay somewhere near the bus stand. No advance booking is necessary and you can even negotiate room rates. Avoid, if you can, the Manimahesh Yatra season between Krishna Janmasthami and Radhasthami – a 15 day chaotic period in late August or early September when the town is a fortress of thousands of pilgrims making their way to the Manimahesh lake.
Day 1. Bharmour to Kugti village (8,500 feet)
Bharmour to Dharol in vehicles. Dharol (7,600 ft) to Kugti (8,500 ft). Easy undulating walk with mild altitude gain. 5½ kms 3 hours.