Rupin Pass Trek, straddling the states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, is an enthralling journey through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Indian Himalayas. At an altitude of 4650 m, the trek covers a distance of 65 km and is packed with a plethora of attractions. Here's an exhaustive guide to what you can expect on this incredible journey.
Overview of the Rupin Pass Trek
The Rupin Pass Trek is a high-altitude crossover trek from Uttarakhand to Himachal Pradesh. The route winds through lush pine and rhododendron forests, across glacial valleys, and up steep gullies. Every curve of the trail unveils an awe-inspiring vista, whether it's a towering waterfall or a quaint hanging village.
Key Highlights of the Rupin Pass Trek
Tracing the Course of the Rupin River
A major attraction of the Rupin Pass Trek is the Rupin river, which accompanies trekkers from the very first day until the crossing of the mighty pass. The river's course is ever-changing, flowing through boulders under a canopy of oak and pine forests one moment and burbling in deep gorges the next.
The Uttarakhand-Himachal Border Crossing
The Rupin Pass Trek includes the unique experience of crossing the border between Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh on a wooden log bridge. This crossing happens over a tributary of the Rupin river and serves as a memorable part of the journey.
The Hanging Village of Jakha
Another highlight of the Rupin Pass Trek is Jakha, known as ‘the hanging village.' This village appears to be precariously perched on a steep slope, offering a sight that is both awe-inspiring and slightly unnerving. Jakha is the last and the highest village on the Rupin Pass Trek.
The Enchanting Snow Bridge
The trek from Jiskun to Buras Kandi presents an unexpected delight in the form of a vast snow bridge. The first encounter with snow on the trek comes in the form of this bridge, which appears suddenly after a long trek through dense forests.
Camping at Dhanderas Thatch
Dhanderas Thatch, located 5 km from Buras Kandi, is a strikingly vast clearing in the middle of a valley surrounded by an array of sights. The Rupin waterfall thunders down in three stages on one side of the valley, earning this campsite the nickname “The Land of a Thousand Waterfalls.”
The Upper Waterfall Campsite
The Upper Waterfall campsite is a splendid meadow on the banks of the gently flowing river. This site is at the top of the Rupin waterfall, offering a surreal experience of witnessing a waterfall from its origin point.
The Thrilling Rupin Pass Gully and Rupin Pass
The most awaited day of the trek involves a thrilling climb through the Rupin Pass gully and crossing the Rupin Pass. This part of the trek offers terrific views of the sacred Kinner Kailash range in the north and the Rupin valley in the south.
Preparing for the Rupin Pass Trek
While the Rupin Pass Trek is undoubtedly a visual treat, it's essential to adequately prepare for the journey. This involves understanding the trek's difficulty level, knowing the best time to undertake the trek, and being aware of how to reach the base camp. Additionally, trekkers should also have a clear understanding of the packing list and fitness requirements for the trek.
Best Time to Undertake the Rupin Pass Trek
Depending on the season, the Rupin Pass Trek offers different experiences. The best time to undertake the trek is during the months of May and June or September and October. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant and the trek is at its most beautiful.
Reaching the Base Camp
The base camp for the Rupin Pass Trek is located in the village of Dhaula. Trekkers can reach Dhaula from Dehradun by road. The journey takes approximately 10 hours.
Packing List for the Rupin Pass Trek
Adequate preparation is pivotal for a successful trek. This includes packing the right gear and equipment. The packing list for the Rupin Pass Trek includes essentials like trekking shoes, trekking poles, backpacks, thermals, trek pants, fleece jackets, and necessary toiletries. Additionally, items like sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottles, and snacks should also be packed.
Staying Fit for the Rupin Pass Trek
Given the moderate-difficult level of the Rupin Pass Trek, maintaining a high level of fitness is crucial. This includes regular cardio exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises. A fit body significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness and other health complications during the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Rupin Pass Trek
Lastly, trekkers often have various questions about the Rupin Pass Trek. These can range from queries about the trek's difficulty level, the best time for the trek, the necessary fitness level, and what to pack. It's always a good idea to have your questions answered before embarking on the trek.
In conclusion, the Rupin Pass Trek is a journey filled with natural beauty, thrilling challenges, and unforgettable experiences. Whether it's the chance to trace the course of the Rupin river, the thrill of crossing the Uttarakhand-Himachal border, or the awe-inspiring sight of the hanging village of Jakha, every moment on the trek is a treasure to cherish. So get your backpack ready, tie your laces tight, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime with the Rupin Pass Trek!
