The Kugti Pass Trek is a hidden Himalayan gem tucked away in the scenic expanse of Himachal Pradesh. Situated at an altitude of around 16,600 feet (5,060 meters), Kugti Pass connects the Bharmour region of Chamba valley with the Lahaul region, offering trekkers a chance to witness raw, unspoiled beauty with a blend of spirituality, adventure, and alpine wilderness. Less commercialized than popular treks like Hampta Pass or Roopkund, the Kugti Pass Trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking solitude, high-altitude challenge, and cultural immersion.

This ultimate guide provides a detailed day-wise itinerary for the 2025 season, helping you prepare for the experience of a lifetime.

Overview of the Kugti Pass Trek

• Location: Himachal Pradesh (Chamba and Lahaul regions)
• Altitude: 16,600 ft (5,060 m)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-June to mid-October
• Duration: 7–9 days
• Total Trekking Distance: Approximately 60–65 km

Day-Wise Itinerary for 2025

Day 1: Arrival in Bharmour (2,195 m)

• Highlights: Acclimatization, Local Temples
• Activities:
  • Reach Bharmour from Chamba via cab (around 65 km, 3–4 hours).
  • Check into a guest house and relax.
  • Visit the Chaurasi Temples, particularly the Bhairav Temple, which is associated with the Kugti trek.
  • Overnight stay in Bharmour.

Tip: This day is crucial for acclimatization. Hydrate well and avoid strenuous activity.

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Day 2: Bharmour to Hadsar to Kugti Village (2,600 m)

• Distance: 20 km drive to Hadsar + 6 km trek
• Trek Time: 3–4 hours
• Highlights: Scenic trail through deodar forests, traditional Himachali villages

Start early with a short drive to Hadsar. From there, begin the gentle ascent through apple orchards, pine forests, and along mountain streams. The trail leads to Kugti Village, a charming hamlet where you get to interact with Gaddi shepherds.

• Set up camp near the village or stay in homestays if available.
• Enjoy the view of snow-clad peaks and get accustomed to the rustic environment.

Day 3: Kugti Village to Duggi (3,200 m)

• Distance: 8–9 km
• Trek Time: 5–6 hours
• Highlights: Waterfalls, alpine meadows, forest trails

This is a moderately steep climb through rhododendron-laced paths and across small wooden bridges. The day’s trek ends at Duggi, a scenic meadow with sweeping views of the Dhauladhar range.

• Camp overnight near the stream.
• The night sky here is breathtaking—ideal for stargazing.

Day 4: Duggi to Alyas (Base Camp, 3,900 m)

• Distance: 6–7 km
• Trek Time: 4–5 hours
• Highlights: Snow bridges, glacial landscapes

This section transitions into a more alpine zone with fewer trees and more rocky terrain. The air is noticeably thinner, so go slow. You’ll come across shepherd encampments and snowfields depending on the season.

• Camp at Alyas, also known as “Lahesh”.
• Rest well and prepare for the pass crossing the next day.

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Day 5: Alyas to Kugti Pass (5,060 m) to Jobrung (3,700 m)

• Distance: 14–15 km
• Trek Time: 8–10 hours
• Highlights: Steep ascent, glacial crossings, panoramic views from the pass

This is the toughest and longest day of the trek. Start pre-dawn to take advantage of firmer snow and better visibility. The trail includes boulder hopping, steep ridges, and glacier traverses. The moment you reach Kugti Pass, you’re greeted with awe-inspiring vistas of the Lahaul and Pir Panjal ranges.

Descend carefully to the other side and continue to Jobrung, a grazing area where you’ll camp for the night.

Day 6: Jobrung to Keylong (3,080 m)

• Distance: 12–14 km
• Trek Time: 5–6 hours
• Highlights: Transition from alpine wilderness to civilization

The descent to the Lahaul valley begins to open up into wider trails and greener terrain. You’ll reach the roadhead from where a vehicle will take you to Keylong, the district headquarters of Lahaul.

• Check into a hotel and rest.
• You can explore the local market or Buddhist monasteries if time allows.

Day 7: Buffer Day / Departure

Use this day as a buffer in case of delays due to weather or altitude-related issues. Alternatively, depart from Keylong towards Manali (via the Atal Tunnel) or proceed to Leh if you’re continuing your Himalayan journey.

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How to Reach the Starting Point (Bharmour)

• By Air: Nearest airport is Kangra (Gaggal), about 180 km from Bharmour.
• By Train: Pathankot Railway Station is the nearest major station.
• By Road: From Pathankot, take a bus or taxi to Chamba, then to Bharmour.

What to Pack for Kugti Pass Trek

• Clothing: Layered clothes, thermal inners, down jacket, waterproof shell, gloves, woolen cap
• Footwear: High-ankle trekking boots with good grip, gaiters
• Essentials: Sleeping bag, trekking pole, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal medication
• Documents: ID proof, permits (arranged via local guides or trekking agencies)
• Others: Power bank, torch/headlamp, reusable water bottles, dry snacks

Trek Tips and Safety

• Fitness: Prepare with cardio exercises, uphill hikes, and strength training at least a month in advance.
• Altitude Sickness: Acclimatize well, stay hydrated, and recognize early symptoms like headache or nausea.
• Guides & Permits: It’s highly recommended to hire local guides. They’ll also help arrange necessary forest permits.
• Weather: Always check forecasts; June and early July offer milder conditions, while post-monsoon (September) offers clear skies.

Why Choose the Kugti Pass Trek in 2025?

• Offbeat Experience: With fewer crowds compared to other treks, it offers a serene and raw Himalayan experience.
• Cultural Insight: The route passes through ancient temples like Kartik Temple, and Gaddi shepherd villages that give you a taste of Himachal’s spiritual and pastoral heritage.
• 2025 Readiness: With infrastructure improving post-COVID and enhanced travel options in Himachal, 2025 is an ideal time to take this trek with better planning and safety.

Final Thoughts

The Kugti Pass Trek is more than just a test of endurance; it’s a journey through changing landscapes, isolated trails, and mystical high-altitude terrains. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or an adventurer seeking new challenges, this 2025 itinerary offers a structured, memorable path to conquer one of Himachal’s most dramatic passes.

If you’re ready to leave behind the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary, pack your bags, tighten your laces, and head towards the wild beauty of Kugti Pass.