Rupin Pass Trek

It is a remote and beautiful trek from Uttarakhand (Dhaula) to Himachal Pradesh (Sangla), following the Rupin River. The alpine meadows in the Govind National Park and the views along the way are outstanding. The trek passes through several villages and shepherd camps in the Rupin river valley. Rupin pass trek is a tributary of the Tons river and meets Supin River at Netwar. This part of the Himalayas is very beautiful and has not been spoilt by development. One can witness the Garhwali culture as well as the Kinnauri culture. There is a stark difference between the two and the most prominent indicator is the style of houses. During the early summer months, it is highly likely that one may encounter snow leading up-to the pass. This makes this trek enthralling.

History of Rupin Pass Trek

Rupin Pass lies between Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh 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 Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh 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 Dhaula in Uttarakhand to Sangla in Himachal Pradesh. Rupin Pass not just connects to two different places but two different cultures and histories also.

Highlights of Rupin Pass Trek

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:

• Dhaula (a starting point in Uttarakhand, known for its culture and beauty)
• Sewa (famous for a unique temple on the border of Himachal and Uttarakhand)
• Jhaka Village (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 Garhwali (Uttarakhand) and Kinnauri (Himachal Pradesh) 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.

Difficulty Level of the Rupin Pass Trek

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.

Best Time to Visit Rupin Pass Trek

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.

How to Reach Rupin Pass Trek

To reach the Rupin Pass trek, first arrive at Dhaula village in Uttarakhand. Dhaula village is the basecamp for Rupin Pass trek. The nearest major city is Dehradun which is well-connected by road, air and train.

You can take a flight to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun and from there take a taxi/cab to reach Dhaula which is around 210 km (8-10 hrs) via Purola, Mori, Netwar and Mori.

From Dehradun, drive or take a taxi to Dhaula: Dehradun – Purola – Mori – Netwar – Dhaula

Similarly, you can take a taxi from Dehradun Railway Station and head to Dhaula as mentioned above. Make sure you start early in the day due to remote and patchy connectivity.

Once you reach Dhaula, you can start your trek. The trek begins at Dhaula (1,580 m) in Uttarakhand and ends at Sangla (2,700 m) in Himachal Pradesh. 

After crossing the pass, you can travel to Sangla to Shimla by road (7-8 hrs) and then return to Delhi or other cities by train, bus or flight.