The Kugti Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh, tucked away in the heart of the Himalayas, offers a fascinating voyage through a tapestry of natural treasures. Trekkers will go on an incredible journey that highlights the region’s breathtaking scenery, rich cultural legacy, and the tenacity of the Gaddi tribe. Trekking through verdant meadows and over the challenging 5,050-meter-high Kugti Pass, this adventure promises to be like no other for the daring traveller.
Kugti Pass Trek Duration
The Kugti Pass Trek is a demonstration of the human spirit’s capacity to transcend temporal limitations, in addition to being a strenuous physical feat. You will discover that timelessness and a sense of oneness with nature take the place of duration as you set out on this amazing journey through the untamed landscape of the Himalayas.
The Kugti Pass Trek duration is typically 6-7 days. Those who have experienced it will tell you that the true duration of the trek is measured not in hours or days but in the memories and transformations it leaves behind. As you traverse the steep inclines, cross glacial streams, and reach the breathtaking summit of the Kugti Pass at 5,050 meters, you’ll find that time slows down, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the present moment and appreciate the grandeur of your surroundings.
But the Kugti Pass Trek is more than just a physical challenge; it’s a journey that takes you through a rich tapestry of culture, history, and tradition. As you trek alongside the semi-nomadic Gaddi tribe, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their way of life, their beliefs, and their connection to the land. This cultural exchange adds a unique dimension to the trek, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
So, while the Kugti Pass Trek may be completed in a matter of days, its impact on your life will be felt for years to come. It’s a journey that challenges you to push your limits, embrace the unknown, and find a deeper connection with the world around you. And in doing so, it reminds us that true adventure lies not in the duration of a trek but in the transformative power of the experience itself.
Kugti Pass Trek: Short Itinerary
Day 1: Bharmour to Hadsar (20 km) and then trek to Kugti (6 km)
Day 2: Kugti to Duggi (7 km)
Day 3: Duggi to Alyas (6 km)
Day 4: Alyas to Kugti Pass to Alyas (12 km)
Day 5: Alyas base camp to Jovrung to Udaipur (8 km + 45 km drive)
Day 6: Udaipur to Keylong to Manali
Kugti Pass Trek Detail Itinerary
The Kugti Pass Trek Duration typically spans 6-7 days, during which you’ll traverse dense forests, alpine meadows, and glacial streams, immersing yourself in the rich culture of the Gaddi tribe.
Day 1: Bharmour to Kugti Village (3,200 m)
Start your journey in Bharmour and make your way through charming villages, apple orchards, and dense pine forests. Once you cross the Budhil Gorge and arrive at the charming Kugti Village, you will be welcomed by the friendly Gaddi tribe. Explore the local temples and prepare for the challenging days ahead.
Day 2: Kugti Village to Duggi (3,200 m)
Embark on a gentle climb through the village, crossing a large stream and ascending sharply to the Kelang Temple. Marvel at the panoramic views as you trek through undulating terrain to reach the vast Duggi meadows, where you’ll set up camp above the tree line.
Day 3: Duggi to Alyas Base Camp(4,000 m)
Traverse through alpine meadows, crossing streams and negotiating boulder-strewn moraines. Witness the breathtaking beauty of hanging glaciers, lofty peaks, and cascading rivers as you make your way to the remote Alyas campsite.
Day 4: Alyas Base Camp to Kugti Pass (5,050 m) to Alyas (3,900 m)
Set out early in the morning to climb the difficult Kugti Pass. You are rewarded with breathtaking views of Grechu Pass, Manimahesh Kailash, and the Lahaul Valley after making the steep climb. Go down to the Alyas base campsite, which is encircled by enormous glaciers and snow fields.
Day 5: Alyas Base Camp to Jovrung to Udaipur
Depart the Alyas base camp and trek through the Lahaul Valley, crossing ridges and navigating rocky paths and glacial moraines. Reach the village of Jovrung, the first habitation on the Lahaul side. From here, drive 45 km to the town of Udaipur, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 6: Udaipur to Keylong to Manali
Descend to the road heading to Sansa and drive to Keylong, the district headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti. Explore the town and prepare for your onward journey, either to Leh or back to Manali via the Rohtang Pass.
High Altitude Trekking
The Kugti Pass trek takes trekkers to dizzying heights, reaching an impressive elevation of 5,050 meters (16,568 feet) at the Kugti Pass itself. This high-altitude trek traverses through the Pir Panjal range, part of the mighty Himalayas, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. You should know the Kugti Pass Trek duration for your trip.
The trek begins at a relatively lower elevation of around 3,200 meters (10,500 feet) in the Kugti village, Chamba gradually ascending through alpine meadows, glacial streams, and moraine fields before reaching the pass. This gradual ascent allows trekkers to acclimatize to the thin air, reducing the risk of altitude-related illnesses.
Kugti Pass Trek Weather
The Kugti Pass trek can be undertaken during the summer and autumn months, typically from June to October. During this period, the weather in the region is relatively stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures.
In the early summer months of June and July, trekkers can expect lush green landscapes, blooming wildflowers, and moderate temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C during the day. However, the nights can be quite cold, with temperatures dipping to as low as -2°C.
As the season progresses, the weather becomes drier, with less precipitation. By September and October, the days are sunny and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 18°C. The nights, however, become increasingly colder, with temperatures dropping to -6°C to 4°C.
Kugti Pass Trek Best Time
The best time to undertake the Kugti Pass trek is during the summer and autumn months, typically from June to October. This window offers the most favourable weather conditions and accessibility to the high-altitude regions.
It’s important to note that the Kugti Pass trek is a high-altitude trek, and trekkers should be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions, including snowfall, strong winds, and heavy rain. Proper planning, packing, and acclimatization are crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. The total Kugti Pass Trek duration is around 6 – 7 days. Also, reserve an extra day for your trip.
Kugti Pass Trek Distance
The Kugti Pass Trek covers a total distance of approximately 104 km, making it a challenging and demanding trek for even the most experienced trekkers. The Kugti Pass Trek duration is 6 to 7 days. The trek begins in Bharmour and takes you through dense pine forests, apple orchards, and quaint villages before reaching the high-altitude meadows and glaciers. The distance is not the only factor that makes this trek challenging; the steep ascents, rocky terrain, and high altitude also contribute to the overall difficulty.
What is the Kugti Pass Trek Duration?
The Kugti Pass Trek Duration is approximately 6-7 days, including the days required to reach the starting point and return from the endpoint.
What is the daily trekking distance on the Kugti Pass Trek?
The daily trekking distance on the Kugti Pass Trek duration varies, with the longest day covering around 12 km from Alyas to Kugti Pass to Kodlu Alyas.
Photos – Kugti Pass Trek Duration


