Rupin Pass Trek stands at a staggering 15,250 feet above sea level and is quite the treat for any trekking enthusiast. However, the steep climb isn’t the only bonus that trekkers can expect. Rupin pass has lots more to offer. From lofty and stunning waterfalls, splendid views of nearby peaks and colourful flower-laden meadows, this trek is guaranteed to be etched into the minds of any trekker.
Starting from the small settlement of Dhaula in Uttarakhand, this trek builds up like an epic orchestra, with wonders and stunning sceneries every step of the trail. Over the course of a week, trekkers will get the pleasure to climb nearly ten thousand feet to reach the Rupin Pass. At the end of the trek, along with stunning sceneries, blue waters gliding along the routes, trekkers will get to culminate their journey in the celebrated three-stage waterfall of Rupin and a thrilling pass cross.
I did Rupin Pass trek with Bikat Adventures, a learning based adventure Travel Company in India. It was a very good experience as I learnt a lot of trekking skills during this 8 days adventure.
The Perfect Crossover Trek Experience
Trekkers will have to trek from Uttarakhand to Himachal Pradesh. Rupin Pass is the perfect example of a challenging yet beautiful crossover trek. The trek consists of a starting point in Uttarakhand and involves a steep climb into the woodlands and leas of Himachal Pradesh. There is a significant difference not only in landscapes but also cultures of both the states. Due to the trek’s vast geographical reach, trekkers may find it difficult to plan out their travel itinerary, but with the right guidance and the right spirit, the journey is definitely worth the effort.
The Famous 3-stage Waterfall of Rupin Pass
The walk to the Saruwas Thatch, which is the lower waterfall camp, is undoubtedly the most exciting part of the trek. The view of the U-shaped gorge and the Rupin River ascending down from the clouds in the form of a thundering 100m waterfall at an astonishing height of 11,500ft will make any trekker feel as if they have tasted paradise. How often do you come face to face with a gushing waterfall at that height in the middle of nowhere?
The Alluring Scenery
With intoxicating visuals behind, trekkers will get the chance to trek along a trail with beautiful snow patches spread all around the route. ‘Bhoj Trees’ or Silver Birches are a common sight. In Hinduism, the leaves of these trees are considered sacred as there’s a myth that the ancient text of Ramayana was written on these leaves. The abundance of these trees along with the sceneries that surround the place will certainly make trekkers feel special.
The hike through the woodlands and bushes lead to an imposing amphitheater of greenery. As trekkers gaze from the edge of the U-Shaped gorge they will get to observe hundreds of elegant waterfalls pouring down its auburn walls to encounter the Rupin. The walk will be full of green pastures, speckled with hordes of stunning yellow marigolds.
During spring, visitors can get to witness an amazing range of blue, green, purple, white and yellow varieties of flowers. Picture these flowers along with the icy blue Rupin route– a sight to behold!
Traditional Villages
One of the highlights of the Rupin Pass Trek is the villages you see on the trail. On the Uttarakhand side, Sewa and Jhaka are unique in their own way. Sewa is famous for its Shiva Temple which opens once every 12 years to welcome the local god, whereas the spectacular village of Jhaka is perched on top of a steep slope which seems like it is climbing the mountain itself with houses protruding from the edge of the cliff, hence it is known as the “Hanging Village”.
On the Himachal side of the trek, the villages of Sangla and Chitkul in the Baspa Valley are the main attractions. The trek itself ends in Sangla which hosts the famous Kamru Fort with spectacular views of the Kinner Kailash ranges. A little beyond Sangla lies Chitkul which is the last village before the Indo-Tibetan border.
However, these villages have one thing in common. They are known for their top-notch hospitality, friendly and caring nature of the villagers, and cultural significance. Spend some time with the locals indulging in their stories and history. It is guaranteed to add to your experience.
How to Reach the Base Camp of the trek, Dhaula?
The Rupin Pass Trek starts from the quaint settlement of Dhaula in Uttarakhand. Located 180 km from Dehradun, Dhaula is conveniently accessible by local buses, shared taxis and private taxi from Dehradun.
Dehradun is at a distance of 270 km from Delhi can be reached by rail, road or air from Delhi.
Best Season
The Rupin Pass Trek has two distinctive seasons of trekking. In the pre-monsoon months of May and June, trekkers will get to witness an ample amount of snow and ice. The white carpet of snow on the later part of the trail will be exhilarating, thus perfect for trekkers who wish to undertake this trek when the trail is snow clad.
However, in the post-monsoon months of September and October, the valley comes to life showcasing pretty flowers displaying an array of colors and the meadows are much more vibrant in green. You can witness the flora and fauna in this region bustling with beauty while there is significantly less amount of snow at the pass.
But, irrespective of the season and what the trail has to offer, the Rupin Pass Trek is one of a kind.
The Rupin Pass Trek is truly unique. Climbing up this trail is almost like going on a roller coaster ride – at every second, there is an exciting view waiting for you. No Himalayan trek offers a better experience. Being right in the middle of Rupin as it rumbles down the waterfall, with numerous mountain ranges impending in the background, as snowy valleys on both sides of the route compliment the countless waterfalls. No wonder the Rupin Pass Trek is considered as one of the most beautiful treks in the Himalayas. Certainly an experience to remember forever!
Share
Contributors
