The Rupin Pass trek in India is a journey that constantly astonishes and captivates with its ever-changing landscapes. It’s akin to an enchanting symphony, with each leg of the trek revealing a new and breathtaking surprise. Let’s take you on this remarkable adventure.
To start, Rupin Pass stands tall at an elevation of 15,250 feet, promising an exhilarating experience in the Indian Himalayas. Yet, the true magic lies in the unexpected wonders that unfold along the way.
The journey begins even before you set foot on the trekking trail, during the drive from Rohru via the Chainsheel Pass. As you wind your way up unpaved roads through dense forests, the scenery transforms with every turn, offering a feast for the eyes. The uniqueness of the forest may compel you to pause and admire its beauty. Around 11,000 feet, you emerge from the forests into vast grasslands that stretch as far as the eye can see, an enchanting sight that lasts until you reach Chainsheel Pass.
This is just a prelude to the awe-inspiring trek ahead.
On the first day of the trek, the hanging village of Jakha, nestled on a ridge, takes you by surprise. The following day, you’ll be left awestruck by the sudden appearance of the towering, dark coniferous forest about an hour’s walk from Jakha. The forest abruptly gives way to a snow bridge below (if you’re trekking early in the season), a sight that boggles the mind.
But hold on, we’re only getting started. On Day 2, the picturesque Saruwas Thatch and a breathtaking view of the renowned Rupin Waterfall await your discovery. Despite hearing about its height, the sheer 1,500-foot drop of the waterfall takes you by surprise.
As you traverse the perfectly “U”-shaped glacial valley of Dhanderas Thatch, with numerous waterfalls cascading down, you can’t help but marvel at the wonders of nature. The next day, as you climb to the top of the Rupin waterfall using its many snow bridges, the unexpected adventures continue. Suddenly, you find yourself at the upper waterfall campsite, with the tranquil Rupin River flowing beside your camp.
After a strenuous ascent from the upper waterfall camp, you’ll find yourself in the expansive snowfields of Rata Pheri, an alpine setting you’d least expect.
Standing at the edges of Rata Pheri, your first glimpse of the Rupin gully will leave you in awe, accompanied by an adrenaline rush. When you realize that you must ascend this gully to reach the pass, it becomes an adventure you never anticipated.
The climb to the knife-edged Rupin Pass, the thrilling slides on the snow afterward, and the long descent through lush grasslands to the final Ronti Gad campsite are all unexpected surprises on the other side.
The Rupin Pass trek is a whirlwind of ever-changing scenery that leaves trekkers breathless until the very end. It’s only when you reach the road at Sangla that the surprises come to a close.
Count each sudden shift in scenery as you embark on the Rupin Pass trek. It’s a rare blend of high-altitude adventure and stunning landscape changes—a combination so extraordinary that it ranks the Rupin Pass among the top treks to experience in India.
Transportation Cost: Rs 10,500 per Bolero vehicle (split among trekkers), expected arrival in Shimla around 1 am on the 8th Day.
Optional: Return cab from Sangla Kanda for an additional Rs 3,500 (inform Trek leader a day before the last day).
Please note: Distances between campsites and altitudes may vary slightly due to weather conditions and chosen routes.
Accommodation: You’ll stay in a lodge at Jiskun and Jakha, while the rest of the days during the trek will be in tents (with three people sharing per tent).
Document Requirements: It’s essential to have a copy of your photo ID for entry at forest check posts along the trek route. Given that photocopying facilities may be limited in Jiskun, please ensure you have this document ready in advance. These documents will be part of the Safety Check-in conducted by the trek leader upon your arrival at the base camp.
Cloakroom Facility for Excess Luggage: We offer a cloakroom service at the Rohru base camp for storing extra luggage. The cost is Rs 200 per 10 kg bag. Anything exceeding 10 kg will be considered as second luggage and will incur additional charges. After completing the trek, your cloakroom-stored luggage will be returned to you in Rampur.
Check out Rupin Pass Trek Images.