Lord Curzon Trail – Kuari Pass Trek Guide, Routes, Best Season & History

History – Who was Lord Curzon?

The Lord Curzon Trail gets its name from Lord George Nathaniel Curzon, who served as the Viceroy of India between 1899 and 1905 during the British period. He was known for his deep interest in exploration, geography, and the Himalayas.

In 1905, Lord Curzon personally explored parts of the Garhwal Himalayas. His journey included crossing the Kuari Pass, which later came to be popularly called the Lord Curzon Trail. This was not just a casual expedition—it marked the introduction of the Himalayan interior to the outside world.

Lord Curzon’s trek became significant because it highlighted the beauty of remote Himalayan valleys, meadows, and passes. His exploration inspired future mountaineers, trekkers, and British officials to chart routes across the Garhwal region.

Although Curzon was a British administrator, his Himalayan exploration left behind a lasting identity. Today, trekkers still use the name Lord Curzon Trek as a tribute to his journey across Kuari Pass.

Why Does Lord Curzon Matter in Trekking History?

• He brought international attention to the Garhwal Himalayas.

• His journey gave Kuari Pass a place in trekking literature and maps.

• The trail he walked still remains one of the most popular Himalayan treks.

Quick Note

While the name “Lord Curzon Trail” is still common, local people usually refer to it as the Kuari Pass Trek. This shows how one historic journey created two popular names for the same beautiful trail.

Where is Kuari Pass Located?

Kuari Pass is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, in the Garhwal Himalayas. The pass stands at an altitude of around 12,516 ft (3,815 m) and lies between Joshimath and Ghat region. It serves as a connecting point between the lush valleys, dense forests, and the vast alpine meadows of Garhwal.

From Kuari Pass, trekkers get clear panoramic views of some of India’s highest peaks like Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Hathi Ghoda, Kamet, and Chaukhamba. Its strategic location makes it one of the most rewarding Himalayan passes, especially for beginners who want to experience big-mountain views without extreme difficulty.

For me, Kuari Pass feels even closer because it is near my own village, Salud Dungra. On special occasions like Anda Astami, people from our village trek up towards these heights to collect the sacred Bhramkamal flowers, which are considered highly auspicious in our traditions.

This cultural connection makes Kuari Pass more than just a trekking destination—it is also a place of faith and heritage for the local communities.

Why the Location Matters for Trekkers

• Easy approach from Joshimath, a major hub for pilgrims and trekkers.

• Lies close to famous Himalayan trails like Valley of Flowers, Hemkund Sahib, and Nanda Devi National Park.

• Offers both forest trails and open meadows, making it scenic and diverse.

Kuari Pass vs Lord Curzon Trek – Are They the Same?

Many trekkers get confused between the terms Kuari Pass Trek and Lord Curzon Trail. While both refer to the same Himalayan region, there is a slight difference in their meaning.

The Kuari Pass Trek mainly refers to the journey that takes you to the Kuari Pass (12,516 ft), famous for its panoramic Himalayan views. On the other hand, the Lord Curzon Trail refers to the historic route taken by Lord Curzon in 1905, which included Kuari Pass but also stretched across multiple valleys and villages.

Key Differences in Simple Words

In Short

• • If someone says Kuari Pass Trek, they usually mean the modern trek routes that reach the pass.

  • If someone says Lord Curzon Trail, they mean the historic exploration route of 1905, which included Kuari Pass as a part of it.

So yes, both are closely related, but the Lord Curzon Trail is historically broader, while Kuari Pass is the main highlight for today’s trekkers.

Curzon’s Original Trek Route

When we talk about the Lord Curzon Trail, it does not just mean the Kuari Pass crossing. In fact, Lord Curzon’s actual exploration in 1905 covered a longer and more detailed route across the Garhwal Himalayas.

He began his journey from Ranikhet and passed through remote Himalayan villages and meadows before crossing the Kuari Pass (12,516 ft). From there, his route continued across deep valleys and eventually ended at Ghat, near Nandprayag in Chamoli district.

The Original Route of Lord Curzon’s Trek

• • Starting Point → Ranikhet (Kumaon region)

  • Through Villages → Gwaldam, Ramni, Jhenji, and Pana

  • High Point → Kuari Pass crossing (~12,516 ft)

  • Ending Point → Ghat region near Nandprayag

This long journey introduced Curzon to some of the most spectacular Himalayan landscapes, including oak and rhododendron forests, remote Garhwali villages, and bugyals (alpine meadows).

Why This Route Became Famous

• • It connected two regions—Kumaon and Garhwal.

  • Showcased both natural beauty and local culture.

  • Highlighted Kuari Pass as a key Himalayan gateway.

Because of this journey, the trek became legendary, and Kuari Pass earned a permanent place in trekking history.

In Today’s Context

Modern treks to Kuari Pass are shorter and usually start from Auli, Joshimath, Sutol, Lohajung, or Salud Dungra. But the original Curzon route from Ranikhet to Ghat is still remembered as the authentic Lord Curzon Trail.

Popular Kuari Pass Trek Routes

The Kuari Pass Trek can be done through multiple routes, each with its own charm, challenges, and cultural touch. The most common starting points are Auli, Karchi Gaun, Sutol, Lohajung, and Salud Dungra in the Garhwal Himalayas. While the Auli and Karchi side routes are very popular, these trails are now facing issues of overcrowding and littering. In contrast, the Salud Dungra route is relatively new and still unexplored, giving trekkers a fresh and cleaner experience of the Himalayas. Looking at the growing problem of waste on older trails, this new route deserves attention and regularisation. From the meadows of Auli to the traditional villages of Sutol and the adventurous trail of Lohajung, each path to Kuari Pass has its own story to tell.

Kuari Pass Trek from Karchi Gaun, Joshimath

Among all the routes, the Kuari Pass Trek from Karchi Gaun is considered one of the most scenic and balanced trails. It offers the right mix of forest walks, village experiences, and wide Himalayan views. This route usually takes 5 to 6 days to complete and is moderate in difficulty.

🗓️ Detailed Itinerary

• • Day 1: Joshimath to Karchi Gaun (Drive 12 km, 30–40 mins)
    Your journey begins at Joshimath, the main hub for trekkers in the region. From here, a short drive takes you to Karchi Gaun, a traditional Garhwali village surrounded by terraced fields and pine forests. Trekkers often stay overnight here to acclimatise and enjoy the rustic mountain lifestyle.
  • Day 2: Karchi Gaun to Tugasi Village to Gulling Top (Trek 6–7 km, 5–6 hrs)
    The trail gradually ascends through Tugasi village, where you can interact with locals and see their traditional houses. After crossing farmlands and oak-rhododendron forests, you reach Gulling Top, your campsite for the day. From here, you can see distant views of Dronagiri peak.
  • Day 3: Gulling Top to Tali Forest Camp (Trek 5 km, 4–5 hrs)
    Today’s trek is through dense forests, full of oak, maple, and rhododendron. The air becomes crisp, and occasional clearings open up to Himalayan views. By afternoon, you reach Tali Forest Camp, a peaceful campsite amidst tall trees.
  • Day 4: Tali to Kuari Pass and back to Tali (Trek 12–13 km, 7–8 hrs)
    This is the most exciting day of the trek. Starting early, the trail climbs through Khullara meadow and then steadily ascends towards Kuari Pass (12,516 ft). From the pass, you get a 180° panoramic view of the Himalayas—Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Hathi-Ghoda, Kamet, and Chaukhamba. After spending some time at the pass, you retrace your steps back to Tali campsite for the night.
  • Day 5: Tali to Auli via Gorson Bugyal (Trek 8–9 km, 6 hrs)
    On the final day, the trail takes you through the stunning Gorson Bugyal, one of the most beautiful alpine meadows in Uttarakhand. In spring, the meadow bursts with wildflowers, while in winter it turns into a snow paradise. The trek ends at Auli, a famous skiing destination, from where you can drive back to Joshimath.

🚍 How to Reach Karchi Gaun

• • By Road: Joshimath is well connected by road from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. From Joshimath, Karchi Gaun is only 12 km drive, accessible by shared jeeps or taxis.

  • By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh (250 km). From there, buses and taxis are available for Joshimath.

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (268 km). From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath.

🌿 Best Season for Kuari Pass Trek via Karchi Gaun

The best time to do this trek is:

• • Spring–Summer (March to June): Clear skies, rhododendron forests in bloom, meadows turning green.

  • Autumn–Early Winter (September to December): Crisp weather, snow on high passes, best Himalayan visibility.
    ⚠️ The trek is generally avoided during the monsoon (July–August) due to landslides and slippery trails.

🧭 Organisers for Kuari Pass Trek

If you are planning this trek, you have two main options:

1. 1. Online Trekking Companies
      Many reputed companies like Indiahikes, Trek The Himalayas (TTH), and Himalaya Trekkers organise fixed departures for Kuari Pass. They take care of logistics, guides, meals, and camping equipment.

   2. Local Trek Guides and Villagers
      You can also directly contact local guides from Joshimath, Karchi Gaun, or Tugasi. Many are experienced trekkers who know the trail better than anyone else. Choosing locals not only makes the trek more budget-friendly but also supports the local economy.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want a personalised experience and flexible itinerary, contacting a local trekking guide is often a better choice than joining a big commercial group.

🌟 Highlights of Karchi Gaun Route

• • Village stay experience at Karchi Gaun

  • Forest campsites at Gulling and Tali

  • Panoramic Himalayan views from Kuari Pass

  • Scenic descent through Gorson Bugyal

  • Balanced itinerary, suitable for both beginners and regular trekkers

Kuari Pass Trek from Auli, Joshimath

The Kuari Pass Trek from Auli is the most popular and beginner-friendly route. Starting from the famous skiing destination of Auli, this trail passes through wide meadows, alpine forests, and offers uninterrupted Himalayan views throughout. The route usually takes 4 to 5 days to complete and is considered easier than the Karchi Gaun or Sutol side routes. If you want to know about skiing environment in Auli, click here.

🗓️ Detailed Itinerary

• • Day 1: Joshimath to Auli (Drive 12 km, 30–40 mins)
    From Joshimath, a short drive (or a scenic cable car ride) takes you to Auli, a meadow surrounded by thick coniferous forests. Trekkers often stay here overnight for acclimatisation and to enjoy panoramic views of Nanda Devi and Hathi-Ghoda peaks.
  • Day 2: Auli to Gorson Bugyal to Tali Camp (Trek 8–9 km, 6 hrs)
    The trail begins with a gradual ascent through the famous Gorson Bugyal, one of Uttarakhand’s largest alpine meadows. In spring, it’s covered with fresh greenery and wildflowers; in winter, it turns into a snowfield. After crossing the meadow and entering dense oak-rhododendron forest, you reach Tali campsite for the night.
  • Day 3: Tali to Kuari Pass and back to Tali (Trek 12–13 km, 7–8 hrs)
    This is the highlight of the trek. The trail climbs up to Khullara meadow, followed by a steep ascent to Kuari Pass (12,516 ft). From the top, trekkers are rewarded with a spectacular view of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kamet, Trishul, and Dronagiri peaks. After spending time at the pass, you return to Tali campsite.
  • Day 4: Tali to Auli (via Gorson Bugyal) and Drive to Joshimath (Trek 8 km + 12 km drive)
    The return journey takes you back through Gorson Bugyal, with breathtaking Himalayan views all the way. The trek ends at Auli, from where you drive back to Joshimath for departure.

🚍 How to Reach Auli

• • By Road: Joshimath is the main base, well connected with Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun by buses and taxis. Auli is just 12 km uphill drive from Joshimath.

  • By Cable Car: Auli is famous for its cable car (ropeway) from Joshimath, one of the highest and longest in Asia. It’s an adventurous way to reach Auli.

  • By Train: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh (250 km).

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (268 km).

🌿 Best Season for Kuari Pass Trek via Auli

• • March to June (Spring–Summer): Meadows at their greenest, rhododendrons blooming.

  • September to December (Autumn–Early Winter): Clear skies, great visibility, and occasional snow at higher altitudes.

  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Popular for snow trekking, though trails may get tougher.

⚠️ Avoid the monsoon (July–August) due to landslides and slippery slopes.

🧭 Organisers for Kuari Pass Trek

1. 1. Online Trekking Companies
      Reputed agencies like Indiahikes, Trek The Himalayas (TTH), and Bikat Adventures regularly conduct Kuari Pass treks from Auli. They provide full support including guides, equipment, meals, and tents.

   2. Local Trek Guides in Auli/Joshimath
      You can also trek with local guides or villagers who arrange camping and logistics at a much lower cost. Many of them also double as skiing instructors in winter. Trekking with locals helps you experience Garhwali hospitality and supports the regional economy.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want comfort and a fixed schedule, go with online organisers. For a flexible and authentic experience, hire local guides directly from Auli or Joshimath.

🌟 Highlights of Auli Route

• • Shorter and easier than other Kuari Pass routes

  • Scenic stay at Auli, a world-famous skiing hub

  • Trekking through Gorson Bugyal, one of the most beautiful alpine meadows

  • Panoramic Himalayan views from start to finish

  • Suitable for beginners, families, and snow-trek enthusiasts

Kuari Pass Trek from Sutol, Ghat

How to Reach Sutol, Ghat

Sutol is a traditional village in the Ghat region of Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. To reach here, first travel to Rishikesh or Haridwar. From there, take a bus or shared taxi to Ghat (about 210 km). Ghat is the last motorable point, and from here, a short drive or hike takes you to Sutol village. This village is famous as one of the starting points for the Lord Curzon Trail.

Best Season for the Trek

The ideal season for this route is mid-April to June and again from September to early November. Monsoon should be avoided because of slippery trails, while peak winters bring heavy snow, making the trek difficult.

Itinerary for Kuari Pass Trek from Sutol

• • Day 1: Rishikesh/Haridwar to Sutol (2,200 m)
    Drive through Devprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nandprayag to reach Sutol village. Overnight stay in Sutol.
  • Day 2: Sutol to Jhinjhi (2,200 m)
    Trek passes through rivers, small bridges, and dense forest. Jhinjhi is a picturesque village with traditional Garhwali houses.
  • Day 3: Jhinjhi to Pana (2,450 m)
    The trail crosses suspension bridges and streams. Beautiful oak and rhododendron forests accompany you.
  • Day 4: Pana to Dakhwani (3,000 m)
    Gradual ascent to alpine meadows. This campsite offers breathtaking views of Himalayan ranges.
  • Day 5: Dakhwani to Kuari Pass (3,650 m) – back to Dakhwani
    A steep climb leads to the Kuari Pass, where you witness grand views of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri, and Trishul peaks. Return to Dakhwani for the night.
  • Day 6: Dakhwani to Ramni via Jhinjhi
    Descend through villages and forests, enjoying traditional hospitality.
  • Day 7: Ramni to Sutol – drive back to Rishikesh/Haridwar
    Trek ends at Sutol, followed by a long drive back to Rishikesh/Haridwar.

Trek Organisers

For this route, many online trekking companies provide packages, but you can also directly contact local guides and porters from Sutol and nearby villages. This not only supports the local economy but also gives you an authentic experience. Local trekkers are equally skilled and familiar with every corner of the trail.

Kuari Pass Trek from Lohajung

How to Reach Lohajung

Lohajung is a small but well-known base camp for several Himalayan treks. To reach here, first travel to Rishikesh or Kathgodam by train/bus. From there, shared jeeps and taxis are available to Lohajung via Karnaprayag and Dewal. Distance from Rishikesh to Lohajung is around 250 km and takes 10–12 hours by road.

Best Season for the Trek

The spring and summer months (April–June) offer blooming rhododendrons and clear weather. The post-monsoon months (September–November) are also perfect, with crystal-clear Himalayan views. Winters (December–March) cover the route in heavy snow, making it ideal for snow trekking but difficult for beginners.

Itinerary for Kuari Pass Trek from Lohajung

• • Day 1: Rishikesh/Kathgodam to Lohajung (2,330 m)
    Long drive through mountain roads and river valleys. Overnight stay at Lohajung village.
  • Day 2: Lohajung to Didina (2,450 m)
    The trek starts with a descent to the river and then a climb to the charming Didina village, famous for its old-style houses and mountain views.
  • Day 3: Didina to Bedni Bugyal (3,354 m)
    Ascend through oak and rhododendron forests to reach Bedni Bugyal, one of Asia’s largest alpine meadows. Stunning views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks can be seen here.
  • Day 4: Bedni Bugyal to Jhinjhi (2,200 m)
    Trekking down through meadows and ridges to Jhinjhi village. The trail offers scenic bridges and waterfalls.
  • Day 5: Jhinjhi to Pana (2,450 m)
    A moderate trail with mixed forests and beautiful ridges. Stay overnight at Pana village.
  • Day 6: Pana to Dakhwani (3,000 m)
    Trek uphill to the alpine region, with gradual ascent. The camp at Dakhwani offers wide Himalayan vistas.
  • Day 7: Dakhwani to Kuari Pass (3,650 m) – back to Dakhwani
    The highlight day! Climb to Kuari Pass and witness mesmerizing views of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Chaukhamba, and Dronagiri peaks. After enjoying the ridge, descend back to Dakhwani.
  • Day 8: Dakhwani to Sutol or Ghat – drive back to Rishikesh/Kathgodam
    Trek down through Ramni and nearby villages, then drive back to Rishikesh/Kathgodam.

Trek Organisers

Lohajung is a popular base, so most online trekking companies run packages on this route. However, you can also hire local guides, porters, and homestays in Lohajung for a more budget-friendly and authentic trekking experience. Locals know alternate trails, culture, and stories that organised tours sometimes miss.

Kuari Pass Trek from Salud Dungra, Joshimath

How to Reach Salud Dungra

Salud Dungra is a small village near Joshimath in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. To reach here, first travel to Rishikesh or Haridwar, and then take a bus or shared taxi to Joshimath (around 270 km). From Joshimath, local jeeps and taxis are available for Salud Dungra (14 km). The village is peaceful and offers several homestays, including Ramman Homestay, which gives a warm Garhwali welcome.

Best Season for the Trek

The spring–summer months (April–June) and autumn months (September–November) are perfect for this trek. During spring, rhododendrons bloom across the forest, and in autumn, the skies are crystal-clear, giving the best Himalayan views. Winters are extremely cold here, but snow lovers may try the trek with proper preparation.

Why Salud Dungra Route?

This is a newly emerging route for Kuari Pass. Unlike Auli and Karchi sides, which are now crowded and sometimes littered with garbage, Salud Dungra route remains cleaner, more authentic, and peaceful. That’s why trekkers and locals believe it should be regularised and promoted as a sustainable alternative.

Itinerary for Kuari Pass Trek from Salud Dungra

• • Day 1: Joshimath to Salud Dungra (14 km drive)
    Arrive at the village and check into a homestay. Evening walk around the village.
  • Day 2: Salud Dungra to Urchuri Dhar (4 km)
    Short but scenic trek through forests and village trails. Overnight camp at Urchuri Dhar.
  • Day 3: Urchuri Dhar to Trichuli (6 km)
    The route passes through dense forests and then opens into bugyals (alpine meadows). Beautiful Himalayan views start unfolding here.
  • Day 4: Trichuli to Chitrkhana (5 km)
    A gradual ascent through lush meadows. Chitrkhana is a popular campsite with panoramic Himalayan ranges around.
  • Day 5: Chitrkhana to Kuari Pass (3,650 m) – back to Tali Lake (7 km)
    Trek to the Kuari Pass, enjoy majestic views of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Dronagiri, and Hathi-Ghoda Parvat, and then descend to camp near the peaceful Tali Lake.
  • Day 6: Tali Lake to Auli – drive back to Joshimath
    Last day of the trek. Walk down to Auli through forests and meadows. From Auli, drive to Joshimath.

Trek Organisers

Currently, very few online trekking companies operate from Salud Dungra, but many local homestay owners and guides organise this trek. Booking directly with them helps in keeping the trek affordable and also promotes eco-tourism. Locals provide guides, porters, and camping facilities along the trail.

Comparison of Popular Kuari Pass Trek Routes

Which Kuari Pass Trek Route is Best for You?

Choosing the right Kuari Pass Trek route depends on what you are looking for. If you want easy access and comfort, then Auli route is the most convenient. For a quieter trail with less crowd, Karchi Gaun is a good option. If you love exploring old villages and Garhwali culture, go with the Sutol route. For adventure lovers who want to combine Kuari Pass with bigger trails, Lohajung is the best base. And if you are looking for a clean, new, and peaceful experience, the Salud Dungra route is highly recommended. Each trail has its charm, so you can pick the one that matches your time, fitness, and travel style.

Best Season for Kuari Pass / Lord Curzon Trek

The Kuari Pass Trek (Lord Curzon Trail) can be done in almost all seasons except the monsoon. Every season has its own charm, but the best time depends on what kind of experience you are looking for.

• • Spring (March–April) – Forests come alive with rhododendron flowers, turning the trail red and pink. Meadows start to turn green, and the weather remains pleasant.

  • Summer (May–June) – Clear skies and long daylight hours make trekking easy. Snow melts on the higher sections, and you get the best views of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Dronagiri peaks.

  • Autumn (September–November) – This is considered the best season for Kuari Pass trek. After the monsoon, the skies are crystal clear, the meadows are golden, and the Himalayan views are breathtaking.

  • Winter (December–February) – The trail gets covered with snow, turning Kuari Pass into a snow trek. It is beautiful but challenging. Beginners should avoid deep winter, but those who want to enjoy snow trekking can go with proper gear and guides.

⛔ Monsoon (July–August) is not recommended due to heavy rains, slippery trails, and risk of landslides.

👉 So, the best season for Kuari Pass Trek is spring (March–June) and autumn (September–November). Winter is also an option for snow lovers with good fitness.

How Did Kuari Pass Get Its Name?

The story behind the name of Kuari Pass (Lord Curzon Trail) is quite interesting. When Lord Curzon came to this region during his Himalayan explorations, he asked the local villagers what the Garhwali word for “virgin” was. The villagers replied that in Garhwali, it is called “Kunwari.”

Curzon was impressed by this unique local word and decided to give the mountain pass the same name. Over time, “Kunwari” became popular as Kuari Pass, which means “Virgin Pass.” The name reflects both the untouched beauty of the meadows and the cultural link with local Garhwali language.

Today, Kuari Pass is not just a trekking destination but also a reminder of how local traditions and stories become part of Himalayan geography.

Nearby Attractions to Kuari Pass Trek

The Kuari Pass Trek (Lord Curzon Trail) is not only about meadows and Himalayan views, but also about exploring the nearby villages, festivals, and sacred places of Garhwal. If you have some extra days, here are some nearby attractions worth visiting:

• • Ramman Festival, Salud Dungra – This UNESCO-recognised festival is celebrated every April in the Salud Dungra and surrounding villages. It is a rare mix of dance, music, and ritual theatre performed in front of village deities. Trekking during this time gives you a chance to experience local Garhwali culture.

  • Lata Village – Known as the gateway to the Nanda Devi National Park, Lata is famous for its role in the Chipko Movement and its ancient traditions dedicated to Maa Nanda Devi.

  • Wan Village – A traditional Himalayan village near Lohajung, often used as a base for treks like Roopkund. It gives a glimpse of old Garhwali lifestyle and wooden architecture.

  • Roopkund Trek – Also called the “Mystery Lake Trek,” Roopkund is located not too far from Kuari Pass region. Known for the human skeletons found near the glacial lake, it is one of the most adventurous treks in Uttarakhand.

  • Badrinath Dham – One of the Char Dham shrines of India, Badrinath temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu lies close to Joshimath. Many trekkers combine their Kuari Pass journey with a visit to this sacred Himalayan temple.

👉 These nearby places make your Kuari Pass trekking experience richer, combining adventure, culture, and spirituality.

FAQs About Kuari Pass / Lord Curzon Trek

Q1. Where is Kuari Pass located?
Kuari Pass is located in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, in the Garhwal Himalayas. It lies close to Auli, Joshimath, and the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.

Q2. What is the height of Kuari Pass?
Kuari Pass is at an altitude of around 12,516 ft (3,815 m).

Q3. How difficult is the Kuari Pass trek?
The trek is considered easy to moderate, making it a great choice for beginners as well as experienced trekkers.

Q4. How many days are required for the Kuari Pass trek?
Generally, the trek takes 5 to 7 days depending on the route – Auli, Ghat (Sutol), or Lohajung.

Q5. What is the best season to trek Kuari Pass?
The best season is March to June (spring-summer) and September to December (autumn-winter). Avoid the monsoon months (July–August) due to heavy rain and landslides.

Q6. Who first explored Kuari Pass?
The trek became famous after it was explored by Lord Curzon in 1905, which is why it is also called the Lord Curzon Trail.

Q7. Why is it called Kuari Pass?
The word Kuari means virgin in Garhwali. When Curzon asked locals about the word, they told him that virgin is called Kunwari. From there, the name Kuari Pass came into use.

Q8. What permits are required for Kuari Pass trek?
Since Kuari Pass falls in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve buffer zone, trekkers need entry permits from the forest department. If you are booking with a trek agency, they usually arrange it.

Q9. What peaks can be seen from Kuari Pass?
From Kuari Pass, you can see Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Hathi-Ghoda, Kamet, Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, and Trishul peaks.

Q10. What are the nearby attractions?
Nearby attractions include Auli Skiing slopes, Badrinath, Lata Village, Ramman Festival, Roopkund Trek, and Wan Village.

Q11. Is Kuari Pass trek safe for beginners?
Yes, Kuari Pass is considered one of the safest Himalayan treks for beginners due to its moderate gradient, proper trails, and amazing campsites.

Q12. Can children join the Kuari Pass trek?
Yes, kids above 10 years with good physical fitness can do this trek, provided they are accompanied by parents/guardians.

Q13. What is the cost of Kuari Pass trek?
The cost usually ranges from ₹7,000 to ₹12,000 per person depending on the route, group size, and trek organizer.

Q14. Is Kuari Pass trek open in winter?
Yes, Kuari Pass is famous as a winter trek. In December–February, the entire trail is covered with snow, offering a magical experience.

Next Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is going to held in 2026.

I have written a detailed article on this topic. You can read it here.

Conclusion – Why Do Trekkers Love the Lord Curzon Trail?

The Lord Curzon Trail (Kuari Pass Trek) is loved by trekkers because it offers a perfect mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty. From green bugyals and thick oak–rhododendron forests to the grand views of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Dronagiri, every step feels rewarding.

It is not only a trek but also a walk through Garhwali culture, old villages, and untold stories like how Kuari got its name. Unlike many other Himalayan treks, Kuari Pass can be enjoyed in different seasons — blooming spring, clear autumn skies, or even as a snow trek in winter.

Above all, the Lord Curzon Trail is special because it balances accessibility with wilderness. Whether you choose the popular Auli side, the cultural Sutol route, or the new and clean Salud Dungra trail, each path has its own charm. That’s why trekkers return with memories of peace, adventure, and the magic of the Himalayas.

– By Mohit Bangari