Dharansi Pass Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
TREK DURATION
7 N/ 8 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
4,261 m
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
55 Km
BASECAMP
Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
May-June September-October
PICKUP POINT
Rishikesh / Dehradun
Overview—Dharansi Pass Trek
The Dharansi Pass Trek in Uttarakhand is an expedition-style trek through a high-altitude wilderness that allows access to the outer edge of one of India's most protected and pristine mountain ecosystems, the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. From the base camp at Joshimath, this high-altitude trek climbs steadily from the traditional Himalayan village of Lata to the alpine ridges and finally to the Dharansi Pass, which is about 4,261 meters (13,980 feet) above sea level.
This trek is not a commercial trekking route because it lies within the buffer zone of Nanda Devi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has fragile ecosystems and restricted access.
Trek Statistics
- Region: Chamoli, Uttarakhand
- Base Camp: Joshimath
- Total Trek Distance: ~55 km
- Trek Duration: 8 Days (including transport)
- Total Elevation Gain: ~2,200 m
- Highest Point: Dharansi Pass (4,261 m)
- Highest Camp: ~4,100 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trek Type: Circuit / Crossover
- Best Season: May-June & September-October
- Permit Requirement: Mandatory (Sanctuary Buffer Zone)
- Network Coverage: Till Joshimath
- Evacuation Access: Limited beyond Lata Village
The route runs along the outer ridge of the Nanda Devi basin, making it one of the rare permitted treks close to India’s highest protected mountain.
History, Culture & Sanctuary Significance of Dharansi Region
Nanda Devi National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982; this site includes the inner premises of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. The shrine has been off-limits to more than 70% of all expeditions for many years, due to its ecologically sensitive environment and the protection of its rare wildlife. As a result, only a limited number of permits are issued annually for visiting or conducting commercial activities within the sanctuary's facilities.
There are distinct cultures from the Garhwal valleys of northern India, like in Lata Village, where people grow apple and apricot trees, and farm trails have been used as part of their mountain heritage for centuries.
Historically, the Lata Valley has been used by Bhotiya tribes as a passageway through the peaks surrounding the Nanda Devi Sanctuary for seasonal migration and trading.
Dharansi Ridge, which is the last of the seven ridges encountered when trekking into the Nanda Devi Sanctuary from the northern side, also constitutes the outer ring of the sanctuary's protection. This trek showcases the physical attributes of the Himalayan mountain range, the importance of conservation in the region, and the unique cultural traditions of the locals; however, it does not feature tourist-dependent economic development.
This trek offers:
- Panoramic views of Nanda Devi and all seven of the mountains surrounding it that are over 7,000 m tall.
- Long ridge walks at high elevation.
- Forest-to-alpine ecosystem transitions.
- Remote camping in locations where there is no village support except for the village of Lata.
- Strictly regulated by ecological permits.
Although the Dharansi Pass trek is not about comfort, it is all about experiencing the mountains up close and personal, developing your physical endurance, and having the chance to be very close to one of the most iconic mountain basins in the Himalayas.
Visible Peaks During the Trek
The trek offers magnificent Himalayan panoramas, especially from Lata Kharak and Dharansi Ridge.
Major visible peaks:
- Nanda Devi (7,817 m)
- Nanda Devi East (7,430 m)
- Dunagiri (7,066 m)
- Trishul (7,120 m)
- Nanda Ghunti
- Bethartoli Group
- Other notable peaks: Chanukhamba, Nilkanth, Hathi Parvat, Ghori Parvat, and Barmal
Clear autumn skies provide the sharpest visibility of these peaks.
Flora & Fauna of Dharansi Region
The trail passes through multiple ecological zones within the Nanda Devi Biosphere.
Lower Forest Belt (2,000–3,000 m)
- Oak
- Deodar
- Rhododendron
- Pine
Sub-Alpine & Alpine Zone (Above 3,500 m)
Bugyals (high-altitude meadows)
Seasonal alpine wildflowers
Moss & lichens
Wildlife Sightings May Include:
Himalayan Monal
Musk Deer
Blue Sheep
Himalayan Tahr
The presence of snow leopards has been recorded in the greater sanctuary region, although sightings are extremely rare.
Nearby Treks & Attractions
The region of Dharansi Pass is located close to many famous sites in Chamoli District within the Himalayan Range. Hikers can also choose to extend their adventures or combine them with these locations:
Valley of Flowers Trek
This UNESCO World Heritage Site, Valley of Flowers, is known for the beautiful blooming of various types of alpine flowers that occur as a result of seasonal changes and attract visitors from all over the world. The valley is alive with vibrant colour when lots of different species of flowering plants start blooming; this typically occurs between July and September.
Auli
Considered one of India's top ski destinations, Auli has what most would consider to be unobstructed views of Nanda Devi, Dunagiri, and other major peaks in the region. It is also the starting point of short Himalayan hikes and winter sports.
Kuari Pass Trek
Often referred to as the Lord Curzon Trail, Kuari Pass is a traditional and well-known route through the Himalaya, with its breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi Massif and Garhwal mountain range. While this trail is easier than the Dharansi Pass, which makes it suitable for first-time and beginner hikers.
Badrinath
Badrinath is located along the Alaknanda River and is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, famous for both its history as a spiritual destination and its stunning scenery.
Pangarchulla Trek
The climb to Pangarchulla Trek is a moderate-level trek. You will have 360-degree views of the Garhwal Himalayas from the summit.
Satopanth Lake Trek
Satopanth Tal is a high-altitude glacial lake located near Badrinath. It is one of the three lakes associated with Hindu deities. The lake is also shaped like a triangle and offers a very scenic, exclusive experience.
Kafni Glacier
The Kafni Glacier is located in the Kumaon region, and the scenic valley approach to the trek provides for an incredible trekking experience. The glacier has various ice formations and is one of the best glacier treks.
Biudarkhal & Gupatkhal
The Biudarkhal and Gupatkhal ridgelines lie in the Nanda Devi range and are relatively unknown compared to other trekking destinations in Uttarakhand. The Biudarkhal/Gupatkhal ridgelines have plenty of open spaces to camp out and incredible views away from the more commercial trekking routes.
These nearby attractions and treks enhance regional trekking circuits and accessibility.
- Day 1: Rishikesh to Joshimath
Drive – 250 km | 9–10 hrs - Day 2: Joshimath to Lata Village
Drive – 25 km | 1 hr
Short acclimatization walk - Day 3: Lata to Lata Kharak
Trek – 9 km | 6–7 hrs - Day 4: Lata Kharak to Dharansi Camp
Trek – 10 km | 6–7 hrs - Day 5: Dharansi Camp to Debrugheta (Exploration) and back
Trek – 14 km | 7–8 hrs - Day 6: Dharansi Camp to Hitoli
Trek – 12 km | 6–7 hrs - Day 7: Hitoli to Surai Thotha + Drive to Joshimath
Trek – 8 km | 4 hrs | Drive – 30 km - Day 8: Joshimath to Rishikesh
Drive – 9–10 hrs
The difficulty level of the Dharansi Pass Trek is rated as moderate to difficult due to high altitude; however, it does not require any technical mountaineering gear (under normal conditions). The trek has sustained altitude gain with elevations above 4,000 m, making it a physically challenging hike.
The trail climbs steadily from Joshimath via the village of Lata to the Lata Kharak to the alpine ridge area at or around Dharansi Pass (4,261 m); on the first day of the trek, there is almost a 1200 m elevation gain over just one day.
This trek is based on endurance rather than technicality.
Trekkers should:
- Have previous trekking experience above 3,500 m
- Be able to walk for 6 to 8 hours daily,
- Have good cardiovascular endurance,
- Be able to pace long, steep climbs.
The most strenuous section will be the climb to the base of Lata Kharak, then a gradual ascent to Dharansi Ridge. The following challenges will be encountered:
- Constant uphill trekking
- Very thin air once you reach about 4000 meters
- Open ridge walking with no windbreak from trees
- A long day on the summit
As you get closer to the Dharansi Pass, you will feel the effects of decreased oxygen very suddenly; therefore, maintaining a controlled, slow, and steady pace throughout this section is vital to your ability to continue without risk of injury.
Weather and altitude can vary significantly during your trek since it is located just outside the Nanda Devi National Park. Working from one of the outer corners of the park, you can expect:
- Rapidly changing weather due to formation of cloud cover
- Strong winds along the ridges
- Nighttime temperatures below zero during the shoulder seasons
Most days will include walking approximately 6–8 hours, while the following days will include some very demanding walks.
- From Lata to Lata Kharak (steep climb)
- All day exploring the Dharansi Ridge
- A long descent to Hitoli
While the overall distance will seem fairly reasonable (55–60 km), the total amount of elevation gain combined with high exposure to altitude will make the trek an enjoyable physical challenge.
It is critical to maintain good hydration, properly acclimatize to the altitude, and wear layers to avoid fatigue from altitude sickness and prevent excess fluid retention in your body due to AMS.
Maintaining an even pace and maintaining adequate hydration during the ascent and descent will allow for a comfortable experience completing the Dharansi Pass.
Dharansi Pass Trek in Summer Season (May - June)
The summer season for trekking begins in May and June. The snow at Dharansi Pass (4261 m) starts to melt off the surrounding areas, while the lower elevations have lush greenery with many trees and flowers.
Typically, the mountain views from Dharansi Pass are very clear; early mornings provide the best views of Nanda Devi and other mountains.
Summer Season Highlights:
- Snow patches around the pass.
- Rhododendrons blooming - this occurs mid-mountain.
- Stable weather in the mornings.
- Pleasant temperatures in the day.
Note: At higher campsites (above ~4000 m), the temperature can drop to almost zero degrees at night; therefore, a proper sleeping bag is recommended.
Dharansi Pass Trek in Monsoon Season (July - August)
The monsoon season (July and August) in the Garhwal Himalayas results in considerable rainy weather during late summer. During this time, many trails, particularly those through the forest, can be slippery, and visibility can be limited or nonexistent due to clouds.
July and August Challenges:
- Slippery terrain.
- Clouded-in views of mountains.
- Unpredictable weather on ridges.
- Increased leeches at lower elevations in forests.
Due to safety concerns associated with hiking trails during monsoon conditions, it is highly recommended to refrain from hiking in the Garhwal Himalayas during these months.
Dharansi Pass Trek in Post-Monsoon (October)
The best time for trekking, particularly the Dharansi Pass Trek, is September because the weather is usually good with very clear views and well-marked trails, all due to the weather changes after the wet season.
In autumn, the scenery is filled with beautiful golden alpine meadows and cool, crisp mountain air.
Why this season is great:
- You will be able to see Nanda Devi massif in full view with no obstruction.
- Stable weather conditions.
- Very little rain.
- A temperature between 20 and 25 degrees (Celsius) for comfortable trekking.
While visibility is great in October, at nighttime it can be much cooler, and above 3,500 m it can be severely cold.
Dharansi Pass Trek in Winters (November - April)
November to April is considered to be winter for the Dharansi Pass trek, and because of heavy snowfall, the pass will be impossible to access.
Winter conditions of the Dharansi Pass Trek:
- Deep snow.
- Very cold temperatures (below zero).
- Trail markers are difficult or impossible to see.
- No access to the sanctuary.
- Due to the safety of the trek, it will not be operating during winter.
Starting Point: Joshimath
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun)
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh / Haridwar / Dehradun
Route:
Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Nandaprayag → Joshimath
- At Devprayag, you get to see the confluence of Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers, which officially forms the holy Ganga.
- At Rudraprayag, you get to see the confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini.
- At Karnaprayag, you get to see the confluence of Alaknanda and Pindar.
- At Nandaprayag, you get to see the confluence of Alaknanda and Nandakini.
- Travel time: 9–10 hours from Rishikesh.
Pack your bag smartly for the Dharansi Pass Trek. To begin with, bring good-quality trekking shoes with a good grip since the path is uneven and steep. Warm clothes such as a down jacket, fleece, thermal innerwear, gloves, a woolen cap, and warm socks are necessary since there is very cold weather at higher altitudes. Comfy hiking pants, fast-drying t-shirts, and a rain jacket (poncho), which can be used for uncertain weather conditions. A rain cover for your backpack is highly essential.
It is important to bring your personal and safety items as well. Have a personal first aid kit containing pain relief spray, band-aids, and personal medicine as required. A hand torch or head torch is one of the important camping tools that will be used after sunset and on the summit day. Bring simple appliances such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, wet tissues, and tissue paper.
A power bank will be useful since there will be no electricity on the mountain. In early summer, there might be snow on the trails; therefore, carrying trekking poles can offer greater stability. Pack lightly, but pack smartly since a heavy pack may increase the difficulty of the trek.
Get Your Body Ready Before the Trek
Training the body is extremely important before going on the Dharansi Pass Trek. Begin taking a walk or jogging at least 3-4 weeks before the trek. Cycling and light exercise can also be done to develop stamina. It is a demanding walk with mountainous ascents and a lot of walking time; thus, being fit enables you to ease your walk and keep it safe.
Pack Smart and Travel Light
Never bring a lot of superfluous items. Bring only such valuable things as warm clothes, a rain jacket, good trekking shoes, a water bottle, and basic medicines. It is important to carry your bag at the right level and maintain your shoulders. Smart packing will save energy and allow one to move more easily on rocky trails.
Weather Check and Early Start
Look at the weather forecast before the beginning of your trek. To be sure that you are not caught in the afternoon weather changes, make sure that you start your trekking day early in the morning to be sure that you get to your campsite on time. When the weather is too bad, such as heavy rain or strong wind, it is better to stop and wait rather than take a risk.
Be with Your Guide
Never rush out; keep with your group and follow your guide or leader on the trek. Do not attempt to cut corners and walk unaccompanied on strange trails. The path is rocky and baffling when it is elevated. Being with one another keeps you safe. Climb the mountains, keep them clean, and preserve nature in your adventure.
Plan your Dharansi Pass Trek with Himalaya Shelter. Himalaya Shelter allows you to personalize your experience on the Dharansi Pass Trek or to make it more comfortable. We will assist you in organizing the hike depending on your fitness, time, and comfort. Our team will tailor the itinerary based on your needs, whether you are a novice or have previous experience in trekking.
We offer a seasoned guide, quality camping gear, nutritious meals, and essential safety assistance so that you can enjoy the mountains without worrying about it.
Himalaya Shelter also provides you with the right advice on how to prepare, pack, and become fit before the trek itself begins.
Himalaya Shelter is now operating in the sections of the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT), offering structured, well-paced journeys across the Indian Himalayas with a strong focus on safety, acclimatisation, and responsible travel.
Day 1: Rishikesh to Joshimath
Distance: ~253 km
Drive time: 9-10 hours
Altitude at Joshimath: 1,875 m
Elevation gain: 1,550 m (from 330 m in Rishikesh)
Depart from Rishikesh early in the morning to drive through the Alaknanda River Valley to Joshimath, passing through the towns of Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Chamoli along the way. The geography will change from the River Gorge to the mid-Himalayan ridges as you approach Joshimath.
The following are the main purposes of this activity: to drive over the mountains on a long road trip, to hydrate and rest, to provide participants with a briefing and gear/equipment check for their evening trek, and to stay at a guest house or hotel in Joshimath.
Day 2: Joshimath to Lata Village
Distance: ~25 km
Drive time: 1 hour; 1-2 km of acclimatization walk
Elevation at Lata: 2,315 m
Elevation gain: 440 m
After breakfast, we will drive to Lata Village, which is the traditional entry point into Nanda Devi Sanctuary. We can take an acclimatization walk for an hour or two at a very low intensity through the village to help our bodies adjust to the higher altitude. We can walk through the village's apple, apricot, and walnut orchards.
The following are the main purposes of this activity: to take a light acclimatization walk, to explore the cultural aspects of Lata Village, and to help ourselves develop a rhythm for breathing at a higher elevation. We will remain in Lata for the night.
Day 3: Lata Village to Lata Kharak
Trek: ~9 km
Duration: 6-8 hours
Elevation at Kharak: 3,680 m at camp location
Elevation gain: +1,365 m
This is the steepest ascent of the trek, as it will take us significantly higher (including 1,365 m of vertical climbing on the same day) than we did on day 2. The trail climbs steeply through dense oak, rhododendron, & pine forests with continuous switchbacks testing stamina and pacing discipline until we get to the top, where trees start to thin out into alpine clearings in Lata Kharak.
- As elevation gains are substantial at high altitude, proper hydration & pacing (slow) are critical.
- Terrain: forest trail, steep incline & rocky sections
- Peaks in view: Nanda Ghunti, Dronagiri & Bethartoli Group
- We will be camping at the top of Lata Kharak with views of the wide mountain ridges.
Day 4: Lata Kharak to Dharansi Pass
Trek: ~10 km
Duration: 6 - 7 hours
Elevation at Dharansi: 4,100 m;
Elevation gain: 420 m
The trail continues a gradual ascent over the treeline into sub-alpine & alpine type terrain. We will start ridge walking where we can see great views of Nanda Devi Outer Sanctuary!
The landscape transitions from forest to high meadow (kharak) to exposed ridges.
Terrain: open ridges, narrow canyons & alpine grassland
Peaks in view: Bethartoli, Nanda Ghunti, Ranthip Peak & Dronagiri
Day 5: Exploring from Dharansi to Debrugheta (There and Back)
Trek: ~14km (Return Trip);
Duration: 7 - 8 hours
Maximum elevation: 4261m (Dharansi Pass)
Elevation gain: +150–200 m
This is the highlight day of the trip; it is an exploration day.
Travel light and hike along the outer sanctuary ridge to Debrugheta with unobstructed views of the Nanda Devi Basin.
Once you reach 4000 m, the air becomes significantly thinner; therefore, it is critical to maintain a slow, steady pace.
Terrain: High Ridge Traverse, Alpine Slopes & Views of Open Mountain Basin
This day gives you the closest legal view of the inner sanctuary.
Hike back to Dharansi Camp.
Day 6: From Dharansi Camp to Hitoli
Distance: ~12km
Hiking Duration: 6 - 7 Hours (Approximate)
Hitoli Elevation: ~3600m
Elevation loss: -500m
Beginning your descent through the alpine meadows before returning to forested areas is how this hike starts.
The long downhill hike requires good knee management and slow steady steps to be successful.
Terrain: Ridge Descent, Mixed Forest Trails, Some Rocky Sections & There are plentiful water sources to help make the descent refreshing.
Camp at Hitoli.
Day 7: Hitoli to Surai Thotha
Drive to Joshimath
Trek Distance: ~8 km
Drive Distance: ~30 km
Time on Trek: 4 hours
Final Altitude: 1875 m
Total Descent: -1725 m
This is a gradual change from alpine isolation to settled valleys. After a gradual descent through forests of deodar and pine, we arrive at Surai Thotha.
From Surai Thotha, we will drive back to Joshimath. We will stay overnight at the guesthouse.
Day 8: Joshimath to Rishikesh
Distance: ~253 km
Driving Time: 9 to 10 hours
Total Descent: -1550 m
After breakfast, we will start driving back down the Alakananda River gorge to Rishikesh.
This completes the full circuit of the Indian Himalayas.
Not recommended without prior high-altitude experience.
Yes—due to restricted access near Nanda Devi Sanctuary.
Network is generally available only till Joshimath.
Autumn (Sept–Oct) offers the clearest panoramic views with most stable weather.
Approximately 4,261 meters (13,980 ft).
Yes. Entry permits are mandatory, as the trek lies within the Nanda Devi biosphere buffer zone.
You should comfortably jog 5 km or sustain 6–7 hours of continuous mountain walks.
Yes, as the trek crosses 4,000 m. Proper acclimatisation is essential.
Its proximity to the Nanda Devi sanctuary and limited seasonal access make it more exclusive and less crowded.
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