Overview of Kugti Pass Trek

• Start Point: Chamba, Himachal Pradesh
• Trek Distance: Approx. 40-45 km
• Duration: 5-6 Days
• Altitude: 4,732 meters (15,525 ft)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

History of Kugti Pass

Kukti Pass is an ancient route connecting Chamba (Himachal Pradesh) with the Pangi Valley and Lahaul-Spiti regions. Historically, it was used by shepherds and traders moving between the valleys. The trek passes through remote villages like Kugti and Hudan Bhatori, showcasing the rich tribal culture of the Gaddi people. The Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary, which the trek passes through, is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive snow leopard.

Kugti Pass  Itinerary

DAY 1: ARRIVAL – CHAMBA TO BHARMOUR

• Arrive in Chamba and transfer to Bharmour (2,195m), a scenic town in Himachal Pradesh.
• Explore Bharmour’s famous Chaurasi Temple Complex and soak in the local culture.
• Stay overnight in a guesthouse or camp in Bharmour.

DAY 2: BHARMOUR TO KUGTI VILLAGE – KARTIK SWAMI TEMPLE – DUGHI (NIGHT STAY)

• Drive from Bharmour to Kugti Village (2,800m), the last inhabited village before the trek.
• Begin the trek to Kartik Swami Temple, a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Kartikeya.
• Continue trekking through dense forests and alpine meadows to reach Dughi (3,400m).
• Camp overnight at Dughi under the star-lit sky.

DAY 3: DUGHI TO BASE CAMP 1 (NIGHT STAY)

• Trek through lush meadows and moraines towards Base Camp 1 (4,000m).
• Witness panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.
• Acclimatization and preparation for the next day’s ascent.
• Overnight stay in tents at Base Camp 1.

DAY 4: BASE CAMP 1 TO KUGTI PASS – KHODLU (NIGHT STAY)

• Early morning trek towards Kugti Pass (5,050m), the highest point of the trek.
• Cross the challenging glacial terrain and take in breathtaking views of Manimahesh Kailash.
• Descend towards Khodlu (3,700m), entering the Lahaul region.
• Overnight stay in a tented campsite at Khodlu.

DAY 5: KHODLU TO RAPE (NIGHT STAY)

• Gradual descent through alpine meadows and dense forests to reach Rape (3,000m).
• Experience a shift in landscape as you move closer to Lahaul. 
• Camp overnight at Rape.

DAY 6: RAPE TO MANALI (DROPPING)

• Trek down to the roadhead where transport will be arranged for Manali.
• Scenic drive to Manali, marking the end of the adventure.
• Departure or an extended stay in Manali as per preference.