RUPIN PASS TREK

RUPIN PASS TREK

BASECAMP

DHAULA

DURATION

8D / 7N

GRADE

DIFFICULT

ALTITUDE

15,250 ft.

DISTANCE

62 KMS

PICKUP/DROP

DEHRADUN

The Rupin Pass Trek is one of the most scenic and adventurous high-altitude treks in the Indian Himalayas, stretching across the states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Starting from the quaint village of Dhaula in Uttarakhand, the trail climbs up to the Rupin Pass at an altitude of approximately 15,250 feet, before descending into the picturesque Sangla valley in Himachal.

This 7–9 day trek offers a dynamic landscape that changes dramatically with every turn—from dense pine forests and glacial meadows to cascading waterfalls and snowfields. One of the trek’s most iconic features is the Rupin River, which accompanies trekkers through much of the journey, culminating in the spectacular “Rupin Waterfall,” a tiered cascade that emerges seemingly out of nowhere.

Each day of the trek presents new challenges and rewards. Trekkers navigate through hanging villages like Jhaka, traverse snow bridges, cross high-altitude meadows, and finally ascend the steep gully that leads to the Rupin Pass. The pass itself offers panoramic views of snow-clad peaks and the stark contrast between the lush Uttarakhand side and the barren mountains of Himachal.

The trek is classified as moderate to difficult, requiring good physical fitness and prior trekking experience. Best undertaken between May–June and September–October, the Rupin Pass Trek is ideal for adventure lovers seeking solitude, natural beauty, and a raw Himalayan experience. It’s not just a journey through terrain, but a transformation through nature’s grandeur and the rich culture of remote mountain villages.

Day 1 : Dehradun to Dhaula

Day 2 : Dhaula to Sewa

Day 3 : Sewa to Jiskun

 Day 4 ; Jiskun to Jakha

Day 5 : Jakha to Dhanderas Thatch

Day 6 : Dhanderas to Upper Waterfall

Day 7 : Upper Waterfall to Ronti Gad

Day 8 : Ronti Gad to Sangla

Day 1: Dehradun to Dhaula (1,580 m)

  • Distance: ~200 km

  • Travel Time: 8–9 hours by road

  • Highlights: Scenic drive through Mussoorie, Nainbagh, Damta, Naugaon, Purola, and Mori.

  • Overnight: Camp at Dhaula

Day 2: Dhaula to Sewa (1,920 m)

  • Trek Distance: ~11 km

  • Duration: 5–6 hours

  • Route: Gradual ascent through rhododendron forests.

  •  
  • Overnight: Camp near Sewa village

Day 3: Sewa to Jiskun (2,350 m)

  • Trek Distance: ~8 km

  • Duration: 5 hours

  • Highlights: Steep climb through dense forests, crossing wooden bridges.

  • Overnight: Camp at Jiskun

Day 4: Jiskun to Jakha (2,300 m)

    • Trek Distance: ~9 km

    • Duration: 4–5 hours

    • Route: Steep ascent followed by a descent to Jakha.

    • Overnight: Homestay or camp at Jakha

Day 5: Jakha to Dhanderas Thatch (3,550 m)

  • Trek Distance: ~6 km

  • Duration: 5 hours

  • Highlights: Gradual ascent through forests, crossing snow bridges.

  • Overnight: Camp at Dhanderas Thatch

Day 6: Dhanderas Thatch to Upper Waterfall (4,000 m)

      • Trek Distance: ~5 km

      • Duration: 4 hours

      • Highlights: Continuous climb, crossing snow patches near the waterfall.

      • Overnight: Camp near Upper Waterfall

Day 7: Upper Waterfall to Ronti Gad (3,970 m) via Rupin Pass (4,650 m)

  • Trek Distance: ~12 km

  • Duration: 10–11 hours

  • Highlights: Steep ascent to Rupin Pass, panoramic views, and descent to Ronti Gad.

  • Overnight: Camp at Ronti Gad

Day 8: Ronti Gad to Sangla (2,600 m)

  • Trek Distance: ~12 km

  • Duration: 6 hours

  • Highlights: Moderate descent through forests, crossing Sangla Kanda.

  • End Point: Sangla, Himachal Pradesh

Type Of  Packages

  1. Group Discount Package ( minimum 5 person required) – ₹ 7,999/- per person 
  2. Fix Departure – ₹ 8,499/- Per Person
  3. Customise Package starting from – ₹ 10,999/- per person
  4. Solo Package – ₹ 15,999/- per person

1. Accommodation:

✔ Homestay/ tented accommodation during the trek (twin/triple sharing basis).

2. Meals:

✔ Nutritious vegetarian meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Snacks) from Day 1 dinner to Day 8 breakfast.
✔ High-altitude energy snacks and hot drinks.

3. Transportation:

✔Dehradun to Sangla shared vehicle.

✔ Internal transfer  as per itinerary.

4. Permits & Fees:

✔ All forest entry fees, camping charges, and trek permits.
✔ Trek insurance (if included in the package).

5. Trekking Staff & Support:

✔ Experienced trek leader and guide (certified mountaineering experts).
✔ Support staff (porters/mules) to carry group camping equipment.
✔ Cook & helpers for fresh meals.
✔ Oxygen cylinder, first aid kit, and emergency support.

6. Trek Equipment:

✔ High-quality tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats.
✔ Microspikes and gaiters for snow patches.

❌ Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, tips, etc.).
❌ Any transportation costs beyond itinerary (e.g., early departure, personal travel).
❌ Personal trekking gear (shoes, jackets, trekking poles, backpack, etc.).
❌ Insurance for trekkers (can be arranged on request).
❌ Emergency evacuation, medical expenses, or rescue charges.
❌ Any additional meals/snacks beyond itinerary.
❌ Anything not mentioned in “Inclusions”.

  • Reach Dehradun (Uttarakhand)

    Dehradun is the closest major city and is well connected by:

    • By Air:

      • Fly to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

      • Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, etc.

    • By Train:

      • Major trains connect Dehradun with Delhi, Haridwar, Mumbai, etc.

      • Popular: Nanda Devi Express, Mussoorie Express

    • By Road:

      • Overnight buses/taxis from Delhi (6–8 hours)

1. Booking & Payment

✔ Advance Payment: 30% of the total package cost at the time of booking.
✔ Full Payment: Must be completed before departure.

Cancellation Policy:

30+ days before trek: Full refund (minus processing fee)

15-30 days before trek: 50% refund

Less than 15 days: No refund

2. Package Inclusions & Exclusions

✔ The package covers accommodation, meals, transport, permits, and guide services as per itinerary.
✔ Personal expenses, insurance, and emergency evacuation are not included.

3. Fitness & Medical Condition

✔ Trekkers must be physically fit and disclose any medical conditions before booking.
✔ The company is not responsible for health issues arising due to altitude sickness or pre-existing conditions.

4. Trekking Rules & Safety

✔ Follow the trek leader’s instructions at all times.
✔ Consumption of alcohol, drugs, or smoking is strictly prohibited during the trek.
✔ Littering and harming wildlife is not allowed.

5. Cancellation by Organizers

✔ If the trek is canceled due to natural calamities, landslides, or government restrictions, a partial refund or alternative trek will be offered.

Clothing:

  • Thermal innerwear (1–2 pairs)

  • Full-sleeve t-shirts (3–4, preferably quick-dry)

  • Fleece jacket or pullover (1)

  • Down or padded jacket (1)

  • Waterproof and windproof jacket (1)

  • Trekking pants (2–3 pairs)

  • Insulated or track pants for camp (1)

  • Rain poncho or rain jacket and pants

  • Woolen cap, neck warmer or balaclava

  • Sun cap or hat

  • Woolen gloves and waterproof gloves

  • Woolen socks (2–3 pairs)

  • Regular socks (3–4 pairs)

Footwear:

  • Trekking shoes (high-ankle, waterproof, well broken-in)

  • Camp sandals or floaters

  • Gaiters (optional)

Bags:

  • Backpack (50–60L) with rain cover

  • Daypack (20L) for summit day or valuables

  • Dry bags or ziplocks for waterproofing

Personal Care and Toiletries:

  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm with SPF

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Biodegradable soap and wet wipes

  • Small towel (preferably microfiber)

  • Toilet paper and hand sanitizer

  • Feminine hygiene products (if needed)

Trek Gear:

  • Headlamp with extra batteries

  • Water bottles (2 x 1L) or hydration bladder

  • Trekking pole(s)

  • UV-protected sunglasses (essential for snow)

  • Power bank

  • Basic first aid kit

  • Personal medication (if any)

Snacks and Energy:

  • Energy bars, dry fruits, trail mix

  • Glucose powder and electrolyte packets (ORS, Enerzal)

Documents:

  • Government-issued ID proof

  • Medical fitness certificate (if required)

  • Two passport-sized photos

Optional:

  • Sleeping bag liner

  • Lightweight thermos

  • Notebook and pen

  • Lightweight camera or GoPro

1. What is the total duration of the Rupin Pass Trek?

Typically, the trek takes 7 to 9 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization.

2. What is the altitude of Rupin Pass?

The highest point of the trek, Rupin Pass, is at approximately 15,250 feet (4,650 meters) above sea level.

3. Is prior trekking experience required?

Yes, the trek is moderate to difficult, so prior experience of at least one high-altitude trek is highly recommended.

4. What is the best time to do the Rupin Pass Trek?

The best seasons are May to June and September to early October, when the weather is stable and the trail is open.

5. Where does the trek start and end?

  • Start point: Dhaula (Uttarakhand)

  • End point: Sangla (Himachal Pradesh)

6. How difficult is the Rupin Pass Trek?

It’s considered moderate to difficult due to high altitude, steep climbs, long walking days, and snow/river crossings.

7. What kind of accommodation is available on the trek?

Accommodation is mostly in tents during the trek. Basic lodges or homestays may be available at a few villages.

8. Are mobile networks available on the trail?

Mobile signals are available only at lower campsites like Dhaula and Jhaka. After that, there is no network during most of the trek.

9. Is the trek safe for solo travelers?

It’s safer to trek with a group or registered trekking agency, due to remote terrain, unpredictable weather, and lack of connectivity.

10. Do I need a permit for the trek?

Yes, forest entry permits and ID proof are required. If you’re going with a trekking company, they usually handle permits for you.


Preparing for the Rupin Pass Trek requires a good level of physical fitness, as it involves long walking hours, steep ascents, high altitude (up to 15,250 ft), and unpredictable terrain (including snow, rocks, and river crossings). Here’s a breakdown of the fitness requirements and preparation tips:


Fitness Requirements for Rupin Pass Trek

1. Cardiovascular Endurance
You should be able to walk 6–8 km per day comfortably with a backpack (6–8 kg). The trek involves 6–9 hours of hiking daily.
Target: Run or brisk walk 5 km in under 35–40 minutes.

2. Strength & Stamina
You’ll be climbing steep trails and descending rocky paths. Leg and core strength are crucial.
Target: Do 3 sets of 20 squats, lunges, and step-ups with ease.

3. Acclimatization Capacity
You should be able to adjust to high altitude. Practicing breath control (like deep breathing or pranayama) helps.
If you’ve been above 10,000 ft before, your body is better prepared.

4. Flexibility & Balance
Helps in tricky sections like crossing snow patches or narrow trails.
Target: Regular stretching or yoga (15–20 minutes a day).


Training Plan (Start 4–6 Weeks Before)

Week 1–2:

  • Brisk walking or jogging: 3–4 km/day

  • Basic bodyweight exercises: squats, push-ups, planks

  • Light stretching

Week 3–4:

  • Increase walk/run to 5–6 km/day

  • Include stair climbing with a backpack

  • Add core exercises (leg raises, crunches)

Week 5–6:

  • Hike on trails or uneven terrain if possible

  • Carry a loaded backpack for short walks

  • Practice full-day endurance (e.g., 3–4 hour walks)


Bonus Tips

  • Stay hydrated during training and on the trek

  • Avoid smoking/alcohol at least 2 weeks before

  • Do a health check-up if you have asthma, BP issues, or altitude concerns

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