About:
Kugti Pass trek route connects Bharmour region of Chamba valley to that of Chandra-Bhaga (Chenab) river in Lahaul. This high altitude and glaciated pass on the Pir Panjal range is named after the prominent village Kugti and trekkers visit on rare occasions. This is due to the interior location inside the Himalayas and thus the challenges of the associated logistical arrangements. However this interesting trail is very picturesque and offers magnificent views of Manimahesh Kailash and numerous peaks to its north in Lahaul valley.
FACT SHEET:
Duration: Delhi to Delhi in 10 days. 6/7 days of trekking
Prerequisite: Prior multiple high altitude trekking experiences along with good physical fitness is required.
Grade: Moderate
Geo Coordinate: 32°31’41.9″N 76°49’55.6″E (Kugti pass)
Physicality: 7.5/10
Trail Length: Approximately ~ 55 Km
Highest Point: Kugti Pass ~ 4980 m/16,335 ft
Access: Reach Pathankot in Punjab and then drive to Bharmour via Chamba, 180 Km. Exit through Manali.
Seasons: June to September
Further Option:
Nearest Rail station: Pathankot/Chakki Bank
Airport: Delhi or Chandigarh
Suggested Itinerary for Kugti Pass trek:
Day 1: Arrive Pathankot. Drive to Bharmour (~ 2100 m/6900 ft) via Chamba town – 180 Km – 6/7 hours.
Day 2: Trek to Hadsar (~ 2200 m) – 12 Km and may take 3/4 hours as it is an almost level walk. There is a motor road as well, although easy hiking on this day is helpful for acclimatisation purpose.
Day 3: Trek from Hadsar to Kugti village (2590 m) 10 Km. This initial section in the Budhil Nala involves many ups and downs. Spend the night in tents, in a local school used as a resthouse, or in a regular rest-house.
Day 4: Kugti village – Duggi (3200 m) 7 Km. Starts with a steep climb of 4km to the temple of Kelong, then 3km up to Duggi camping ground.
Day 5: Duggi – Alias (4116m) 6 Km. The trail is rough and steep to start with. Alias is a vast grassy plateau.
Day 6: Alias – Kugti pass – Alias Got (4000 m) 7 Km. Alias signifies a grassy area usually situated below a pass. The ascent to the pass (4960 m) is a stiff walk over moraine and snow. Descend to Alias Got on north side of pass.
Day 7: Alias Got – Jahlma (2896 m) 10 Km. The trail goes down to meet the Chandra-Bhaga river in Lahaul; cross a bridge and turn left to reach Jahlma on the Tindi-Manali highway.
Day 8: Jahlma – Manali (1896 m) The bus journey Jahlma to Manali in the Kulu valley takes about 10 hours and leads through the Lahaul valley to Khoksar then southwards over the Rohtang Pass. At present newly opened Atal Tunnel reduces this journey by half or so.
Day 9: Buffer day for the trek.
Day 10: Drive from Manali to Delhi overnight by Volvo, 580 Km, 14/15 hours or to Chandigarh 300 Km, 9/10 hours.
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