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    • Uttarakhand
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    Rupin Pass Trek TripsDone

    8-day Rupin Pass Trek
    days 8
    8-day Rupin Pass Trek Dehradun ,Uttarakhand
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    Trek to Rupin Pass
    days 8
    Trek to Rupin Pass Dehradun ,Uttarakhand
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    Rupin Pass Trek
    days 8
    Rupin Pass Trek Dehradun ,Uttarakhand
    Book
    8-day trek to Rupin Pass
    days 8
    8-day trek to Rupin Pass Dehradun ,Uttarakhand
    Book

    Rupin Pass Trek

    About Rupin Pass

    Located in the Garhwal region, on the borders of Uttarakhand and Himachal, Rupin Pass is a beautiful high altitude Himalayan pass.

    It's a relatively unknown location so you'll have the landscape mostly to yourself. If you're looking for an adventure away from the crowds, in a virgin Himalayan paradise, this one's for you.

    About Rupin Pass Trek

    This trek moves from Dhaula in Uttarakhand into the state of Himachal Pradesh so you can expect lots of variety in terms of landscape, nature, and culture.

    The trek is a blend of medium to easy gradients with some steep climbs, and depending on the Rupin Pass weather, it can be quite challenging sometimes.

    Since this is a high altitude trek with a steep ascent to Rupin Pass at 15,380 feet, it is recommended for those who have prior high altitude trekking experience. However, well prepared and fit newbies have successfully completed the trek to Rupin Pass.

    The highlight of this trek is scaling the Rupin Pass. After just a few days of trekking, you can expect a thrilling gully climb and unforgettable snow slides.

    The Rupin Pass trek is one of the least explored routes in one of the most beautiful regions of the country. You'll leave behind connectivity, motorable roads, and civilization for that perfect mountain experience.

    The Rupin Pass has lots to offer – quaint Himalayan villages, towering cliffs, dark and dense forests. You'll walk along the banks of the icy blue Rupin river, through pine-scented forests, and across rock-hewn ridges to meet and interact with locals and get a glimpse into their daily lives.

    You will see cultural landmarks and temples. The landscape on both sides of the pass is spectacular, studded with waterfalls, lush green meadows, snow-capped mountains, and big rivers.

    You'll get to camp in beautiful grassy meadows, in comfortable tents and warm sleeping bags. On rest days your guide and porters will set up camp and cook you a hearty meal under the stars while you explore the valley and soak in the feel of the alpine forests.

    Best season to visit

    The Rupin Pass is best navigated in September to November when the valley bursts to life under clear blue skies. The mist disappears and days are bright and sunny. Sunrises and sunsets are spectacular with the fringe of mountain peaks mimicking heaven.

    But if it’s the snow that compels you, then visit in April-May. During these months, the Rupin valley is covered in a fluffy blanket of snow, waterfalls are silenced and the valley is peacefully frozen in time.

    Rupin Pass temperature

    Temperatures here range from about 14 to 22 degrees Celsius to 0 to 8 degrees Celsius and from 12 to 20 degrees Celsius to - 4 to 5 degrees Celsius depending on the season.

    Rupin Pass treks cost about INR 16,000 to 30,000, depending on the number of days and facilities provided. One just has to glance at some of the blogs as a testament to how exhilarating, adrenaline-pumping and fulfilling the trek really is.

    Rupin Pass Trek Summary

    • State: Uttarakhand
    • Nearest city: Dehradun
    • Total days: 8 days
    • Grade: Moderate-Challenging
    • Max altitude: 15250 feet
    • Total trekking distance: 51 - 68 km
    • Season: Winter and Summer
    • Avg. temperature: -4 to 20 degrees Celsius

    Rupin Pass Trek Photos

    Sketch Itinerary:

    Day 1:

    • Start point: Dehradun
    • Endpoint: Dhaula
    • Day start time: 16:00 hrs

    Day 2:

    • Start point: Dhaula
    • End point: Sewa
    • Day start time: 06:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 7 km
    • Trekking time: 6 hrs

    Day 3:

    • Start point: Sewa
    • End point: Jhaka
    • Day start time: 06:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 9 km
    • Trekking time: 7 hrs

    Day 4:

    • Start point: Jhaka
    • End point: Saruwas Thach
    • Day start time: 06:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 6 km
    • Trekking time: 5 hrs

    Day 5:

    • Start point: Saruwas Thach
    • End point: Dhanderas Thach
    • Day start time: 06:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 5 km
    • Trekking time: 4 hrs

    Day 6:

    • Start point: Dhanderas Thach
    • End point: Upper Waterfall camp
    • Day start time: 06:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 2 km
    • Trekking time: 3 hrs

    Day 7:

    • Start point: Upper Waterfall Camp
    • End point: Ronti Gad
    • Day start time: 06:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 10 km
    • Trekking time: 11 hrs

    Day 8:

    • Start point: Ronti Gad
    • End point: Sangla
    • Day start time: 06:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 12 km
    • Trekking time: 6 hrs
    Detailed itinerary:

    Day 1:

    Be sure to reach Dhaula at 16:00 hrs in the evening where you will meet the guides and fellow trekkers. It is an 8-hour drive picturesque from Dehradun Railway station, navigating your way through the valley and small towns. Night accommodation is in a homestay.

    Day 2:

    You will start early at 06:00 hrs and hike towards Sewa. The Rupin river will run parallel to you, keeping you company throughout. The trail will also take you through gorgeous apple and apricot orchards

    The trek terminates at Sewa where you will reach by evening. Sleeping arrangements will be in a homestay at Sewa.

    Day 3:

    The trek to Jhaka, today, will kick things into a higher gear, being slightly more challenging than yesterday’s hike to Sewa. The journey commences by making your way across a wooden bridge that serves as the link between Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

    While you continue towards your destination, you will pass the quaint villages of Kwar and Jiksun. Watch out for certain parts of the track which lead you through natural walkways carved into mountains with thick forest cover on either side. Homestay at Jhaka for the night.

    Day 4:

    You will hike towards Saruwas Thach. One of the more charming routes of the trek will take you through rivers, snow and rhododendron trees.

    Overcoming a few giant boulders, you will make your way to a ‘U’ shaped valley with a roaring waterfall. The night will be spent by this marvel of nature in tents, an unforgettable camping experience.

    Day 5:

    You will hike to reach Dhanderas Thach today. Cut across forests with pine, silver birch and oak trees. Pass by serene streams and mighty waterfalls. You will reach your destination by evening and will rest your weary bodies in tents for the night.

    Day 6:

    This day will start off with a quick brief where you will learn about trekking through snow. This is because you will have to navigate through deep snow on the journey towards the Upper Waterfall camp.

    Cross a snow bridge and undertake a steep ascent to make it to the campsite. Camp under the stars in tents for the night.

    Day 7:

    Day 7 is the culmination of all that the trek has been building up towards, the Rupin Pass. The hike begins through snow and as you ascend higher, the air gets thinner and the views prettier.

    When you reach Rupin Pass, you will spend some time basking in the glory of your conquest and absorbing the stunning views all around. Post that, you will descend towards Ronti Gad and stay in tents for the night.

    Day 8:

    The final day of the Rupin Pass trek begins with a long and winding descent to Sangla. It actually commences with a small ascent followed by a sharp dive.

    You will encounter numerous vantage points along the way offering breathtaking views of the Kailash mountain ranges and the Sangla Kanda Lake. You should reach your destination by late afternoon bringing the trek to an end.

    Inclusions

    Meals and refreshments will be served based on the packages selected. Accommodation will be provided on a sharing basis in homestays or similar. Please check with your operator for the final details.

    The expenses cover all the permit charges, camping charges, and entry fees (applicable only for Indians) throughout the entire trek. It also covers all applicable taxes.

    The services and expertise of the guide and the entire crew for hike to Rupin Pass are included in the overall costs. All equipment and gear required for the trip will also be provided to you within the expenses incurred. This includes a first-aid kit.

    Exclusions

    The costs exclude transportation from your residing city to Dhaula and the same needs to be arranged by you. Dehradun-Dhaula transport is available on extra charges shared by all travelers.

    Camping, permit charges and entry fees for non-Indian citizens are not covered in the expenses and will have to be borne separately.

    Any personal expenses such as beverages, extra meals, tips, etc. are not included in the meals, nor are any kind of expenses arising out of unforeseen circumstances like landslides, roadblocks, strikes, etc. Lastly, anything that is not mentioned in the inclusions will be charged on an additional basis, as used.

    Sketch Itinerary:

    Day 1:

    • Start point: Dehradun
    • Endpoint: Dhaula
    • Day start time: 06:00 hrs

    Day 2:

    • Start point: Dhaula
    • End point: Sewa
    • Day start time: 07:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 7 km
    • Trekking time: 6 hrs

    Day 3:

    • Start point: Sewa
    • End point: Jhaka
    • Day start time: 07:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 9 km
    • Trekking time: 7 hrs

    Day 4:

    • Start point: Jhaka
    • End point: Saruwas Thach
    • Day start time: 07:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 6 km
    • Trekking time: 5 hrs

    Day 5:

    • Start point: Saruwas Thach
    • End point: Dhanderas Thach
    • Day start time: 07:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 5 km
    • Trekking time: 4 hrs

    Day 6:

    • Start point: Dhanderas Thach
    • End point: Upper Waterfall camp
    • Day start time: 07:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 4 km
    • Trekking time: 3 hrs

    Day 7:

    • Start point: Upper Waterfall Camp
    • End point: Ronti Gad
    • Day start time: 07:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 10 km
    • Trekking time: 11 hrs

    Day 8:

    • Start point: Ronti Gad
    • End point: Shimla
    • Day start time: 06:00 hrs
    • Trekking distance: 12 km
    • Trekking time: 6 hrs
    Detailed itinerary:

    Day 1:

    Transport will be waiting for you sharp at 06:00 hrs at Dehradun Railway Station, so be there on time. A long drive of 10 hours will follow but time will fly by as you make your way through charming Mussoorie as well as scenic villages.

    You will reach Dhaula by late evening and will be served a delicious dinner on arrival. You will be staying in tents for the night.

    Day 2:

    The trek begins today with a steep climb of 20 minutes after which the path will flatten out. Apricot and apple trees line up your path right up to the Rupin river.

    The campsite is located right next to the river, allowing you to dip your feet in its cold soothing water. You will stay in tents overnight at the campsite.

    Day 3:

    The first major challenge of the Rupin Pass will present itself to you, a wooden bridge. Trek along a narrow path close to the mountain edge and up through a narrow path that slices through a forest.

    You will then reach your campsite in Jhaka. Rest your body for the upcoming trek ahead in tents under the stars.

    Day 4:

    Jhaka is a unique village located at the edge of a mountain slope which makes for some stunning views. You will wake up with a smile on your face and post breakfast to begin the hike.

    You will make your way through thick fir forests, into snowy patches till you reach Saruswas Thach. You will set up camp here at one of the most stunning locations on the entire Rupin Pass trek. With views of the valley and a majestic waterfall, you will sleep blissfully.

    Day 5:

    You will hike beside the Rupin waterfall on this day, ascending through a forest on a winding path that runs parallel to the valley’s edge. You can catch beautiful glimpses of the meadows, bursting with yellow marigolds, rocks, and luscious grass.

    This path will lead you to Dhanderas Thach. If the meadows below had caught your attention, then the meadow here will blow your mind. You will be camping at the meadow for the night in tents.

    Day 6:

    Day 6 promises to offer ample doses of adventure. You will begin the climb slowly allowing your body to adapt as you move from 11,150 feet to 13,120.

    The hike is only 3 hours in duration but you will need to implement techniques such as snow-sliding, sidestepping, plunging and kicking. You will be taught all these snow-trek techniques.

    You will most probably get to wield an ice-ax to slice through the snow patches. A last steep climb will have you at your destination, the Upper Waterfall Camp where you will be spending the night.

    Day 7:

    One of the longest days of the hike as you will be hiking towards your final destination, the Rupin Pass. You will navigate a few steep parts before reaching Rati Pheri.

    Feast your eye on the majestic views of the Rupin Pass Gully before making your way to the top. Feel the dopamine hit, especially as you conquer the last tricky bit. Post that you will begin your descent to Ronti Gad, putting your snow-sliding skills to good use. Overnight stay is in tents.

    Day 8:

    The trek is essentially downhill but it can get challenging. Slow and steady, you will move through the green meadows, bidding adieu to the snow. You can see the white peaks of Kinner Kailash, the Sangla Kandla lake and cut across pine forests for the last time.

    You come to Bapsa village, which opens up to the roads of Sangla. Here, you will find the vehicle which will take you back to Shimla. The drive will be 8 hours through the night and the trip will terminate at Shimla.

    Inclusions

    Meals and refreshments will be served based on the packages selected. Accommodation will be provided on a sharing basis in homestays or similar. Please check with your operator for the final details.

    The expenses cover all the permit charges, camping charges, and entry fees (applicable only for Indians) throughout the entire trek. It also covers all applicable taxes.

    Travel to the starting and ending point is included in the expenses in a Tata Sumo or similar car. All the equipment needed for camping and the safety gear is also included and will be provided by the operators.

    The expenses cover all the permit charges, camping charges, and entry fees for the Rupin Pass. It also covers all applicable taxes. A first-aid kit along with an oxygen cylinder is also available.

    The services and expertise of the guide and the entire crew including the porters/mules to carry the gear and the equipment are also included.

    Exclusions

    The costs exclude transportation from your residing city to Dehradun and from Shimla to your home city. Services of mules and porters to carry personal bags are not included and can be availed at an extra cost.

    Any personal expenses such as beverages, extra meals, tips, etc. are not included in the meals, nor are any kind of expenses arising out of unforeseen circumstances like landslides, roadblocks, strikes, etc.

    The costs do not cover for adventure travel insurance and you could purchase the same. Lastly, anything that is not mentioned in the inclusions will be charged on an additional basis, as used.

    Rupin Pass Trek - Route Map / Altitude Map

    Best time to go/Weather

    Arguably the best time to take the Rupin Pass trek is winter, specifically the time between September to November. This the time when the valley is bursting with life and the views are spectacular.

    If, however, you crave the snow then you should visit in the months of April or May. The Rupin Valley is blanketed in pristine snow, the waterfalls are frozen and the valley stands still in time.

    The closest city located to the Rupin Pass is Dehradun. Jolly Grant airport is located in the city and is the closest airport to the trek. Dehradun Railway Station is the nearest railway station.

    One can travel to Dehradun by either of the two options, rail or air. Both the options link the city to all other major points within the country.

    You could even drive down to Dehradun from New Delhi or from your base city as Dehradun is well connected to a number of national highways. From Dehradun, you could take taxis or bus services to reach the closest point to the trek, Dhaula.

    Some packages also include pick-up and drop-off from your base city, Dehradun Railway Station or other places to the starting point of the trek. Be sure to check out the inclusions of the package you’re looking to know more about the same.

    Throughout the Rupin Pass trek, choose to wear clothing that is quick to dry and non-restrictive. Footwear should compulsorily be comfortable trekking shoes.

    In order to beat the weather carry wear woolen socks, gloves, and thermal clothes. Wear a windcheater or jacket for some added protection.

    T-shirts should ideally be full sleeves and you should wear full-length trekking pants. Carry a raincoat or poncho with you.

    Do not have expensive jewelry or wearable gadgets on your person. Sandals and slippers may be worn in the evenings but definitely not during hikes.

    All equipment and gear that are required for the Rupin Pass as well as for the camps will be carried by the operators and guides. This includes sleeping bags, mattresses, dining tents, alpine tents, and toilet tents.

    The guides will also carry first-aid kits along with oxygen cylinders in case of any emergencies.

    You need to carry a backpack with you which has a rain cover. Stuff it with a water bottle, personal toiletries, trekking poles. For sun protection, carry sunblock, sunglasses and a cap.

    A torch is mandatory but a camera is optional. You can also carry a lip balm. Do not forget to bring a government-issued ID card with you.

    The Rupin Pass trek has a ‘moderate’ grade of difficulty. This is mainly due to the grueling length of the trek and the altitude at which you will climb.

    As a result, you require a decent level of fitness to undertake the trek and some prior experience is highly recommended. That being said, fit individuals with no prior experience can still undertake the trek.

    You can prepare for the Rupin Pass a few weeks in advance by engaging in some cardio activities along with moderate strength training.

    Rupin Pass Trek - Frequently Asked Questions

    The trek is a moderately challenging one and thus cannot be undertaken by just about anyone. A decent level of fitness will be required to undertake the journey.

    Some prior hiking experience is also recommended but fit individuals with no experience can be part of the trek.

    While it is challenging, the Rupin Pass trek is absolutely safe as long as you are healthy and fit and have no major prevailing medical conditions.

    Besides, the trek guide and the crew have years of experience and know all the routes. The equipment and safety gear that they carry with them ensures you have a successful and safe adventure.

    The best season for the trek is during the months of September- November before winter truly begins. The weather is clear and sunny and the views are absolutely stunning.

    If you like the snow, then the ideal time to visit is before the commencement of the monsoon season when the Rupin Pass is a winter wonderland.