Rupin Pass Trek Himachal
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate - Difficult
TREK DURATION
7 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
15,279 ft
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
41
BASECAMP
Himachal Pradesh
BEST TIME
May-June| September-October
PICKUP POINT
Himachal Pradesh
Rupin Pass Trek In Himachal Overview
The Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh takes trekkers through a variety of settings, revealing cascading waterfalls, thick forests, and even some hanging villages. Widely acknowledged as one of the most breathtaking and exciting treks in Himachal, due to the constantly changing landscape, the Rupin Pass Trek Himachal has been likened to a suspenseful movie where one does not know what will come next.
Beginning at an altitude of just over 15,250 feet (4,650 metres), the Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal provides a way to traverse high-altitude portions of the Indian Himalayas without the need for climbing equipment or technical mountain skills. This gives trekkers the opportunity to move up in difficulty from moderate trails to higher altitudinal levels than they would have thought possible at the start of the Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh.
It is not only the trek itself; the adventure starts before the trek begins. This Rupin Pass Trek Himachal Pradesh takes travellers to the foothills of the Himalayas along the way. They will travel from Shimla, one of the best-known hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, famous for its colonial architecture, apples, and beautiful views of the mountains, to a small village called Jiskun.
As travel continues along a dusty, winding road through Rohru and up into the mountains, the landscape gradually changes from busy towns to peaceful Himalayan villages surrounded by dense forests and winding mountain roads. In addition, this journey marks a transition into complete immersion in nature, an experience that is a hallmark of trekking in Himachal Pradesh.
The drive from Shimla to Jiskun during the Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal is an incredibly scenic experience and is part of what makes this trek unique. Throughout this drive, trekkers will see traditional Himachali villages, experience unique wooden architecture, and learn about how local people live in the mountains. The drive is also lined with apple orchards, as well as opportunities to interact with people from the different villages along the route, adding additional cultural value to this Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh and creating an overall trek that is about more than just walking.
Jakha Village is an iconic aspect of the Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh and is regarded as one of the trail's most remote and highest villages. It sits at a high point on a steep hillside, creating a striking dramatic effect. The architecture of the village reflects traditional Himalayan village life, which has not been affected by any recent developments, so this village definitely provides trekkers with a true feel of the adventure they will have during the Rupin Pass Trek Himachal, because it is the last permanent settlement before they enter into the more remote sections of the alpine wilderness.
The Rupin Pass Trek route in Himachal Pradesh, after Jakha, takes trekkers through areas of dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron to open up into wide-open alpine meadows. Trekkers will also see many multi-tiered waterfalls, rushing mountain streams, and mountain grasslands that occupy the valley ceilings. Each day's trek showcases a different ecosystem; due to this progression through diverse ecosystems, the Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh is often cited as one of the most diverse and scenic Himachal Pradesh treks.
Camping on the Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh is also an unforgettable experience for trekkers who visit the Rupin Pass. The campsites for trekkers on this Rupin Pass Trek Himachal route are located in secluded areas that do not have any human settlements close to them. Therefore, there are no lights or other sources of interference that will have an effect on the starry sky at these campsites during the Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh.
As a result of this, when trekkers camping on this trek look up into the night sky when they are camping on a clear night, they will see an amazing starry sky and a striking view of the Milky Way. As a result of camping on this trek in a beautiful and pristine environment, trekkers on the Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal will have the opportunity to have great moments of silence and reflection at their campsites, which are very rare in our day-to-day lives and a true highlight of trekking in Himachal Pradesh.
The highlight of the Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh is its summit day, which will be the crowning achievement of the trekker. In addition, the incredible contrast of the descent from the Rupin Pass into the valley is part of the reason why the Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh is considered one of the premier high-altitude treks in Himachal.
Finally, the Rupin Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh offers a unique combination of adventure, natural beauty, cultural experiences, and personal challenge. Because of this, the Rupin Pass Trek Himachal is one of the best trekking routes in Himachal Pradesh for experienced trekkers who want a real, immersive experience of the Himalayas and everything that Himachal Pradesh trekking has to offer.
Rupin pass trek Himachal Start (via Bawta)
Day 1: Shimla → Bawta (Drive: 195 km, 8–10 hrs)
Route: Shimla → Theog → Narkanda → Rohru → Chirgaon → Dodra → Bawta (6,300 ft)
- Stay in guesthouse/homestay
Day 2: Bawta → Jiskun → Jhaka (Trek: 6–7 km, 4–5 hrs)
Trail: Steep initial climb → Jiskun village → gradual descent to Jhaka (7,700 ft)
- Stay in tents
Day 3: Jhaka → Saruwas Thatch (Trek: 8–9 km, 5–6 hrs)
Trail: Descend to Rupin river → forest section → cross wooden bridges → meadows of Saruwas Thatch (10,800 ft)
- Stay in tents
Day 4: Saruwas Thatch → Dhanderas Thatch (Trek: 6–7 km, 4–5 hrs)
Trail: Meadows → waterfalls → reach wide open meadow of Dhanderas (11,680 ft)
- Stay in tents
Day 5: Dhanderas Thatch → Upper Waterfall Camp (Trek: 3–4 km, 3 hrs)
Trail: Steep climb near the Rupin waterfall → camp just above the falls (13,120 ft)
- Acclimatization day, glacier views
Day 6: Upper Waterfall Camp → Rupin Pass → Ronti Gad (Trek: 10–11 km, 8–9 hrs)
Trail: Gradual climb → steep snowfield → Rupin Pass (15,250 ft) → descend to Ronti Gad (13,420 ft)
- Most challenging day of the trek
Day 7: Ronti Gad → Sangla Kanda → Sangla (Trek + Drive: 12 km trek, 2–3 hrs drive)
Trail: Meadows → descend into forest → reach Sangla road-head → drive to Sangla (8,800 ft)
In Himalaya Shelter (HS), we provide you with the option to customize your Rupin Pass trek experience. Whether you're an avid mountaineer, an adventure seeker or a group of friends, you can opt for our personalized tailor-made expedition program. This customized program will be exclusively designed for you, taking into account your specific requirements for transportation, accommodation, meals, technical equipment and any other premium facilities you may need during the climb.
Starting from Shimla (pick up point), the Rupin Pass trek passes through scenic destinations and reaches Bawta (basecamp). From here, you start your trekking journey.
Himalaya Shelter ensures your journey is safe and memorable with experienced local guides, technical support and all necessary permits. You can even request offbeat routes or sunrise hikes for a more immersive Himalayan experience.
Moreover, no other participants will be added to your group. Choosing a Customized program will enable you to enjoy your journey without any hesitation.
Rupin Pass lies between Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand in the Indian Himalayas. The name 'Rupin' is believed to be linked with a beautiful girl named 'Roopmati'. As per mythology, it's said that once there was a beautiful and kindhearted girl who lived in the region. She was known for her captivating beauty and charm. Once a king, attracted by her beauty, proposed to her to marry but Roopmati refused to marry him. The king became very angry and being egoistic he forced her to marry him. To escape this, Roopmati ran into the mountains and prayed to god to protect her. For her kind heartedness and purity, god turned into a flowing river- Rupin. It's believed that the Rupin river carries her essence.
During medieval time (750 CE – 1757 CE), the Rupin Pass was used by traders, shepherds and pilgrims. It was used as a traditional route by communities like Bhotiya and Kinnauri for their seasonal movement between the Higher Himalayan region and lower valleys. Due to this, some small settlements on either side of the pass grew around these seasonal routes. The region was crucial in playing the role in the lives of mountain communities.
Slowly and gradually, the surrounding areas of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand started gaining recognition for their natural beauty and passes like Rupin were explored for travel and mapping.
Today, Rupin Pass has become a famous trekking destination. Trekkers come here to experience its changing landscapes- from dense forests to snow-covered ridges and the cultural shifts- from Sangla in Himachal Pradesh to Dhaula in Uttarakhand. Rupin Pass not just connects to two different places but two different cultures and histories also.
Dramatic Waterfall Campsite: The main highlight of Rupin Pass trek is a stunning campsite right below the famous Rupin Waterfall. The Rupin Pass is known for its multi-tieing waterfall, means each tier has its own pool at the bottom. Rupin Waterfall makes campsites visually appealing and soul-soothing.
Beautiful Destinations/Campsites: The beautiful destinations or campsites on Rupin Pass trek includes:
- Jhaka Villae (it's also called a 'Hanging village' built on a slope)
- Upper Rupin Valley (filled with alpine meadows and waterfalls)
- Rupin Pass (4,650 m – offers panoramic Himalayan views)
- Sangla Valley (the ending point in Himachal Pradesh, known for apple orchards)
Flora and Fauna: On the trails of Rupin Pass, there are dense forests of oak, pine, rhododendron and deodar. You will get to see alpine flowers like blue poppies, primulas, Brahma Kamal (rare) at higher altitudes.
For wildlife enthusiasts, there are Himalayan langurs, red foxes, mountain goats, Himalayan monals and musk deer often spotted.
Culture and Tradition: Rupin Pass presents the blend of Kinnauri (Himachal Pradesh) and Garhwali (Uttarakhand) cultures. Both cultures have their own uniqueness in attires, languages and local festivals. The hospitality of mountain villagers is heart warming and their simple lifestyle wins the heart.
Cross-State Himalayan Pass: Rupin Pass trek is a cross-state trek. It crosses two states and multiple landscapes. From forests to alpine meadows to waterfalls to snow landscapes, it passes through a dramatic shift. The Rupin Pass trek is not merely a physical adventure, it's an experience of deep nature's and culture's phenomena.
The Rupin Pass is considered a moderate to difficult trek. It is located at the altitude of around 4,650 m (15,250 ft) which is suitable for experienced trekkers. The terrain of Rupin Pass is highly diverse. It ranges from dense forests to lush meadows, rocky trails, icy hanging villages, icy slopes and the thrilling Rupin waterfall. Every day, trekkers have to walk through changing landscapes which is adventurous but also challenging. The total trek duration is around 8 to 9 days which covers approx 52-56 km, depending on the route. Each day involves 5 to 8 hours of walking which can stretch to 10 to 12 hours around the final pass crossing.
Weather conditions can be unpredictable at higher altitudes. Sometimes snowfields are present near the pass even during the summer. Sudden rainfall and hailstorm can add difficulty.
Trekkers need basic technical support while crossing the pass. On snowfields and steepy ridges, usage of rope and ice axes are common. The basic mountaineering skills and technical guidance is required.
Due to high-altitude and technical challenges, Rupin Pass trek is not suitable for kids and families. Beginners can attempt it but they must be physically fit and mentally enduring. Solo trekking is also not advisable due to difficult terrain and safety.
The Rupin Pass trek is ideal for serious mountaineers who are looking for a thrilling journey and high-altitude adventure.
To do the Rupin Pass trek Himachal, reach Shimla first. Shimla is well-connected with the major cities of India by air, rail and road.
From Shimla, start your journey to Bawta/Gosangu (also called Jiskun) via Theog, Narkanda and Rohru. You can take a taxi/cab or shared vehicle from Shimla to reach Bawta/Gosangu.
From Bawta, your trek begins officially following the Rupin river through villages like Jhaka, Sewa, Udaknal and waterfall camp then you cross the pass.
After crossing the pass, the trek ends at Sangla, Himachal Pradesh. From here you can take a taxi or bus back to Shimla which typically takes 7 to 9 hrs. After going back to Shimla you can continue to Delhi, Chandigarh or any desired destination by road, train or flight.
The best time to trek in Rupin Pass is from May to June and from September to mid-October. These windows offer the most favourable time and stable weather.
May to June
From May to June, the trails are filled with snow bridges and melting glaciers. Snow adds some adventure but trails can be slushy. However, the meadows are lush green and filled with blooming flowers. The sky is clear and visibility is good. Daytime temperature range goes between 10°C to 15°C while at night time it can dip to 0°C or below, especially on higher camps like Upper Waterfall or Rati Pheri.
September to mid-October
This time landscapes come alive and fresh with more greenery after monsoon. Trails are dry but at higher altitudes, snow can still be presented. The sky is clearer and mountain peaks are easily visible. Valleys glow with the golden hue of autumn. During this time, daytime temperature remains around 10°C to 12°C and at night time it can go down to 2°C to below 0°C.
Note: Avoid July to August due to heavy rainfall which makes trails slippery and prone to landslides. Similarly winters (November to April) are not suitable due to heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.
Mandatory Backpacking List for Rupi Pass Trek
Notice: All trekkers are strictly advised not to carry unnecessary plastic items such as disposable bottles, single-use cutlery, polythene bags, and food wrappers during the trek. We encourage the use of reusable bottles, tiffin boxes, and cloth bags to minimise waste and protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Your cooperation is essential in ensuring a clean and sustainable trekking experience
Physical Fitness Preparation for Trek:
To overcome the difficulty level of Bali pass trekking, it requires strong cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and overall physical fitness. Incorporate these exercises into your routine to increase strength, stability, and stamina, which will help you tackle difficult terrain sections of the trail at high altitudes.
Day 1: Shimla to Jiskun via Rohru
- Drive: 190 km in 7-8 hrs
- Altitude: Jiskun (7,630 ft)
- Accommodation – Homestay at Jiskun
Today is the much-anticipated day for every trekker, they are in for surprises at every corner. On the way, we get to see colonial architecture and busy markets along the way. Once we reach rohru we get to see the magnificent Pabbar River.
Day 2: Jiskun to Jakha
- Trek Distance: 4 km within 4 hrs
- Altitude gain: 7,630 ft to 8,755 ft
- Accommodation – Homestay at Jakha
Surrounded by lush green hills, we commence a trek from Jiskun to Jakha traversing through rugged trails. after we pass the last farthest village (Jakha) where the real trek starts from. Perfect place to embrace rich local culture and traditions.
Day 3: Jakha to Saruwas Thatch
- Trek Distance: 7.10 km in 5-6 hrs
- Altitude gain: 8755 ft to 10,770 ft
- Accommodation – Stay Campsite – Tent
Starting today trekkers traverse through dense forest patches of pine and oak. Trekkers get to enjoy the melody of different types of birds which is just mystical as part of trek. here the setting would be beautiful magnificent meadows surrounded by High towering peaks.
Day 4: Saruwas Thatch to Dhanderas Thatch
- Trek Distance: 3 km in 2 hrs
- Altitude gain: 10,770 ft to 11,700 ft
- Accommodation – Stay Campsite – Tent
From this point trekkers trek through stunning alpine meadows studded with wild flowers, berries and many other floral wonders. We get to sea tall waterfall cascading down to the drop with the gushing sound along with birds chirping would be music to ears! This point is mostly isolated from the outside world therefore with minimal to zero air pollution one could perfectly embrace the ambiance of nature at this point. Trekkers get to enjoy warm campsite amidst the towering high-altitude peaks
Day 5: Dhanderas Thatch to Upper Waterfall
- Trek Distance: 2.4 km in 2-3 hrs
- Altitude gain: 11,700 ft to 13,275 ft
- Accommodation – Stay Campsite – Tent
This is the day trekkers get to camp at the legendary Rupin waterfall. Imagine sleeping by the waterfall under the stary sky as the waterfall sings you to sleep as the beautifully lit night sky acts as bed lamp. Apart from that this day would be the perfect opportunity to capture the panoramic view of beautiful valley
Day 6: Upper Waterfall camp to Rupin Pass and Ronti Gad
- Trek Distance: 7.4 km in 9-10 hrs
- Altitude gain and loss: 13,275 ft to 15,279 ft to 13,005 ft
- Accommodation – Stay Campsite – Tent
This is the most important day of the trek as we push to the summit. Trekkers could witness the breath-taking panoramic view of kinner Kailash ranges. Trekkers get to traverse through snow studded trail. The most interesting part is we get to camp surrounded by snow-capped peaks
Day 7: Ronti Gad to Kanda to Sangla
- Trek Distance: 11.9 km in 6 hrs
- Altitude loss: 13,005 ft to 8,660 ft
- Drive distance: 220 km in 7-8 hours
As we traverse back to Sangla from Ronti gad via Kanda with a lot of memories made once again we get to trek along lush green meadows and valleys with dense forests surrounding us. We even pass by apple orchards which is a sight we never asked or expected to get. We drive back to Shimla on the last day and bid Farewell as we move back to modernity with a lot of memories in our hands!
Trek Inclusions
Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.
- Transport Support from Shimla to Jiskun on Day 1 at an additional cost of INR 2,500
- Transport Support from Sangla to Shimla on the last day at an additional cost of INR 2,500
- Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek.Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided. - Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
- Permission - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
- Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
- Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
- Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.
Exclusions of the Package
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Travel Expenses - Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC. - Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
- Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day.
Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden. - Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
- Anything apart from inclusions
- Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya.
The best time to do the Rupin Pass trek Himachal is in spring and summer from from May to June, and in autumn, from September to October.
The difficulty level of the Rupin Pass trek Himachal is moderately hard or even difficult. You walk for long hours. There are steep parts. The trail changes a lot. Near the pass, you might need some simple technical help.
This trek is best for people who have experience or are very fit. Beginners can try it. But they must be very fit and have good guides.
The Rupin Pass Trek Himachal Cost with Himalaya Shelter is Rs 22,000.
You get good service for this price. It includes reliable guides and quality tents. We use quieter campsites. You also get a guesthouse or homestay before and after the trek. And we handle all transport from Shimla to Sangla. This makes your trip smooth from the start.
A Rupin Pass Trek Himachal package includes your stay in a guesthouse or homestay at the base, high-quality tents on the trek, all meals, camping gear, safety equipment, and an experienced trek leader with local guides. You also get medical support with oxygen backups, and transport assistance is available from Shimla and back.
The Rupin Pass trek Himachal Pradesh is located on the marking border of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. It starts from Bawta and ends in Sangla.
The itinerary for the Rupin Pass Trek, Himachal:
- Day 1: Shimla to Bawta
- Day 2: Bawta to Jiskun to Jhaka
- Day 3: Jhaka to Saruwas Thatch
- Day 4: Saruwas Thatch to Dhanderas Thatch
- Day 5: Dhanderas Thatch to Upper Waterfall Camp
- Day 6: Upper Waterfall Camp to Rupin Pass to Ronti Gad
- Day 7: Ronti Gad to Sangla Kanda to Sangla
The Rupin Pass trek Himachal starts from Bawta in Himachal Pradesh, goes to Sewa to Jiskun, to Jakha, and it goes to the beautiful upper waterfall to Rupin Pass and ends in Sangla in Himachal Pradesh.
Rupin Pass is a high-altitude pass trek, proper gear and clothing are important for a safe and better experience. Here is are list of some clothing and gear.
- Carry warm layers (thermal innerwear, fleece, padded jacket), trekking pants, a good rain jacket, gloves, a woollen cap, and sturdy waterproof shoes.
- Pack a backpack with a rain cover, personal medicines, a small first-aid kit, sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottles, and energy snacks.
- Also, keep a headlamp, trekking poles, extra socks, toiletries, and your ID. The weather shifts fast on this route, so a proper layering setup really helps.
To complete the Rupin Pass trek Himachal takes a total of 6 nights and 7 days which you covering 63 km.
Rupin Pass is the highest point at 4,650 m of the Rupin Pass trek Himachal.
The Rupin Pass trek Himachal is known for a few things. It has a great campsite by a waterfall. You see the unique hanging village of Jhaka. There are thick forests and high meadows. And the pass offers beautiful views from high up.
You also get a mix of two cultures. The trek starts in Uttarakhand and ends in Himachal. So you see the Garhwali and Kinnauri life. This makes the journey feel richer.
Yes, beginners can try the Rupin Pass trek Himachal. But they must be very fit and ready for long, tough days. The path has steep parts and some technical ground. So, it is important to go with an experienced team and have good guidance.
You need to be in good physical fitness. You should be able to walk 6–8 hours a day and be comfortable with steep climbs. Strong leg strength, good stamina, and prior trekking experience really help because the pass day can get demanding.
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