Rupin Pass Trek
Overview
- Starts from Dhaula in Uttarakhand or Jiskun in Himachal Pradesh, depending on the chosen itinerary, and concludes in the beautiful Sangla Valley of Kinnaur.
- Crosses the spectacular Rupin Pass at approximately 15,250 ft (4,650 m), making it one of India's most exciting high-altitude crossover treks.
- Follows the dramatic course of the Rupin River, passing through deep gorges, dense forests, remote Himalayan villages, alpine meadows, waterfalls, and snowfields.
- Features the famous Hanging Village of Jhaka, known for its traditional mountain architecture and dramatic location on a steep mountainside.
- Includes the spectacular three-stage Rupin Waterfall, one of the trek's most iconic and memorable natural attractions.
- Passes through scenic campsites such as Jhaka, Saruwas Thatch, Dhanderas Thatch, Lower Waterfall Camp, and Upper Waterfall Camp.
- Offers constantly changing landscapes, from forests and river valleys to alpine grasslands, glaciers, snow bridges, and steep mountain slopes.
- The final pass crossing involves challenging sections such as snowfields, steep snow gullies, rocky terrain, and glacier-like conditions, depending on the season.
- Offers spectacular views of the Kinnaur Himalayas, surrounding snow-covered peaks, Rupin Valley, and Sangla Valley.
- Generally rated Moderate to Difficult/Difficult, requiring good endurance, physical fitness, and preferably prior high-altitude trekking experience.
- Best seasons are May–June and September–October, with early summer offering more snow and autumn providing clearer mountain views.
- Considered one of the most scenic and diverse Himalayan crossover treks because it combines remote villages, hanging waterfalls, alpine meadows, snow bridges, high-altitude adventure, and the dramatic transition from Uttarakhand to Himachal Pradesh.
About Trek
Rupin Pass Trek is one of the most beautiful high-altitude crossover treks in India. The trek begins in Uttarakhand and crosses into Himachal Pradesh through the spectacular Rupin Pass.
The trail follows the Rupin River and passes through traditional Himalayan villages, dense forests, wooden bridges, waterfalls, snowfields, and alpine meadows. One of the most unique features of the trek is the constantly changing landscape, which offers something new almost every day.
As trekkers gain altitude, the route becomes more dramatic with glaciers, snow bridges, steep climbs, and rugged mountain terrain. Crossing Rupin Pass is the biggest highlight of the trek, followed by a descent into the beautiful Sangla Valley of Himachal Pradesh.
Major Attractions
• Dhaula Village
Traditional Himalayan village and the starting point of the trek.
• Jiskun Village
A remote mountain village known for its traditional wooden houses and beautiful surroundings.
• Rupin Waterfall
A spectacular multi-tiered waterfall and one of the major highlights of the trek.
• Upper Waterfall Camp
A scenic campsite located near the magnificent Rupin Waterfall.
• Ronti Gad
Beautiful high-altitude campsite surrounded by snow-covered mountains.
• Rupin Pass
The highest point of the trek at approximately 15,250 ft.
• Sangla Valley
Beautiful Kinnaur Valley known for its mountains, villages, and apple orchards.
Itinerary
Day 1 — Shimla to Jiskun
Scenic drive from Shimla through the beautiful mountain landscapes of Himachal Pradesh towards Jiskun, the starting point of the trek.
Day 2 — Jiskun to Jhaka
Begin the trek through traditional villages, forests, and scenic mountain trails towards Jhaka, known as the hanging village.
Day 3 — Jhaka to Suruwas Thach
Trek through dense forests, riverside trails, and gradually changing Himalayan landscapes towards Suruwas Thach.
Day 4 — Suruwas Thach to Dhanderas Thach
Continue through alpine meadows and scenic valleys alongside the Rupin River, with increasingly dramatic mountain views.
Day 5 — Dhanderas Thach to Upper Waterfall Camp
Trek through snowfields, waterfalls, and rugged high-altitude terrain towards Upper Waterfall Camp.
Day 6 — Upper Waterfall Camp to Ronti Gad via Rupin Pass
The most challenging day of the trek, involving a steep ascent to Rupin Pass at approximately 15,250 ft, followed by a dramatic descent towards Ronti Gad.
Day 7 — Ronti Gad to Sangla
Descend through alpine landscapes and enter the beautiful Sangla Valley, marking the completion of the trekking route.
Day 8 — Sangla to Shimla
Scenic drive back to Shimla, marking the conclusion of the Rupin Pass Trek.
Eligibility
Participants should:
• Have good cardiovascular endurance
• Be comfortable trekking for 6–8 hours daily
• Have previous high-altitude trekking experience, if possible
• Maintain healthy blood pressure and pulse rate
• Be prepared for steep climbs and snow sections
• Avoid trekking with serious heart, kidney, liver, or respiratory conditions
• Consult organizers regarding any medical conditions
How to Reach
Starting Point
Dhaula, Uttarakhand
Nearest Airport
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station
Dehradun Railway Station
Most trekkers travel to Dehradun and continue by road towards Dhaula, the usual starting point for the Rupin Pass Trek.
Cancellation Policy
Refund percentages vary depending on cancellation timing:
- Earlier cancellations receive higher refunds/vouchers.
- Emergency situations may qualify for special refund consideration.
FAQs
Is Rupin Pass Trek beginner friendly?
It is suitable for fit beginners with strong preparation, but previous high-altitude trekking experience is recommended.
What is the highest altitude?
Rupin Pass is located at approximately 15,250 ft.
Does the trek involve snow?
Yes, snowfields and snow bridges are commonly encountered during the early trekking season.
Are permits required?
Yes, necessary forest and trekking permits are generally arranged by the trekking organizers.
How difficult is the Rupin Pass crossing?
The pass crossing is physically demanding and may involve steep snow climbs depending on conditions.