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🏞️ Kundli Pass Trek – Overview
The Kundli Pass Trek is a hidden gem in the Dhauladhar range of Himachal Pradesh, offering a thrilling adventure through remote ridges, alpine meadows, and high-altitude landscapes. Starting from McLeod Ganj and ending in the historic temple town of Bharmour, this 5-day trek takes you across the majestic Kundli Pass (4,550 m) – one of the most pristine and less-traveled mountain passes in the region.
This trail is perfect for experienced trekkers seeking solitude, challenging climbs, and raw Himalayan beauty. Along the route, you’ll camp in serene spots like Thatharna, Bakhlodu, and Galod Gote, interact with Gaddi shepherds, and discover untouched Himalayan villages like Kwarsi. The panoramic views from the pass, cultural encounters, and spiritual ambiance of Bharmour make this trek a truly immersive Himalayan journey.
The Kundli Pass Trek
Is a challenging and remote high-altitude adventure in the Dhauladhar range of Himachal Pradesh. This 5-day trek begins with a short drive from McLeod Ganj to Khaniyara village, followed by a moderate hike to Thatharna (2,600 m), a beautiful ridge offering panoramic views of the Kangra Valley. On the second day, the trail continues through Haudi ka Kanda and Khabrotu, gradually becoming steeper as it approaches Bakhlodu (3,690 m), a secluded alpine meadow far from any marked trail.
The third day marks the most demanding part of the trek, as trekkers ascend steeply through boulders and vertical ridges to cross the majestic Kundli Pass (4,550 m). Adorned with traditional Trishuls placed by Gaddi shepherds, the pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. After crossing the pass, the trail descends across snow beds to the high-altitude campsite of Galod Gote (3,700 m).
Day four involves a long descent through forests, ridgelines, and multiple streams, eventually reaching the tranquil Gaddi village of Kwarsi (2,730 m), known for its Nag temple and warm hospitality. On the final day, a short trek leads to the roadhead, from where a vehicle takes you to Lamu village. From there, trekkers can choose to visit either Chamba town (50 km) or the spiritual temple town of Bharmour (14 km), home to the revered Chaurasi Temples.
This offbeat trek offers a mix of adventure, solitude, cultural interaction, and stunning Himalayan landscapes—ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking a lesser-known route in Himachal Pradesh.
Itineraries
Day 01
McLeod Ganj to Khaniyara (Drive) – Trek to Thatharna (2,600 m)
- Drive Distance: 11 km | Trek Distance: ~6 km | Trek Time: 3–4 hrs
- Your adventure begins with a short scenic drive from McLeod Ganj (1,750 m) to Khaniyara village (1,450 m), the trek’s starting point.
- The trail gradually climbs through pine forests and crosses Kharota village, offering glimpses of rural Himachal.
- After Kharota, a steady ascent of 6 km brings you to Thatharna, a beautiful campsite perched on a ridge.
- Enjoy stunning views of Kangra Valley and Dharamshala below.
- Overnight Stay: Campsite at Thatharna
Day 02
Thatharna to Bakhlodu (3,690 m) via Haudi ka Kanda – Khabrotu
- Trek Distance: 8 km | Trek Time: 6–7 hrs
- Begin the day with a moderately inclined trek for the first 5 km, followed by a challenging ascent of 3 km to reach Bakhlodu.
- The trail is remote, largely untouched, and unmarked – ideal for trekkers looking for solitude and raw wilderness.
- En route, pass through Haudi ka Kanda and the rugged ridge of Khabrotu before reaching the high-altitude meadow of Bakhlodu.
- Overnight Stay: Campsite at Bakhlodu
Day 03
Bakhlodu to Galod Gote (3,700 m) via Kundli Pass (4,550 m)
- Trek Distance: 10 km | Trek Time: 7–8 hrs
- Today is the most thrilling and strenuous part of the trek as you scale the Kundli Pass (4,550 m).
- The 4 km ascent from Bakhlodu is steep and crosses vertical ridgelines and large boulder fields.
- At the top of Kundli Pass, find sacred Trishuls placed by the Gaddi shepherds, offering divine views of both Kangra and Chamba valleys.
- The descent takes you across snow patches to the remote camping meadow called Galod Gote.
- Overnight Stay: Campsite at Galod Gote
Day 04
Galod Gote to Kwarsi Village (2,730 m)
- Trek Distance: 16 km | Trek Time: 6–7 hrs
- The trail descends through dense forests, sharp ridges, and crosses multiple mountain streams.
- Reach Kwarsi, a picturesque Gaddi village surrounded by terraced fields and cedar trees.
- Visit the Nag Temple and relax in the traditional serai built for travelers and shepherds.
- Kwarsi offers a peaceful retreat after the high-altitude crossing of Kundli Pass.
- Overnight Stay: Serai or village homestay in Kwarsi
Day 05
Kwarsi to Lamu – Drive to Choli Village / Bharmour
- Trek Distance: 3 km | Drive Distance: 5 km
- Trek down from Kwarsi to the roadhead (3 km) and drive to Lamu village (5 km), where you connect with the Chamba–Bharmour road.
- From here, you can either:
- Continue to Chamba town (approx. 50 km) OR
- Drive 14 km to Bharmour, the historic “temple town” home to the Chaurasi Temples (84 ancient shrines).
- Trek ends with spiritual and cultural insights from the region.
✅ Trek Inclusions
- All vegetarian meals from Day 1 lunch to Day 5 breakfast
- Camping gear: tents, sleeping bags, mats
- Trek guide, cook, helpers, and Porter's for carrying equipment
- Forest entry fees and camping charges
- Transportation from McLeod Ganj to Khaniyara and from Lamu to Bharmour/Chamba
❌ Trek Exclusions
- Hotel stay in McLeod Ganj or Bharmour (can be arranged on request)
- Personal trekking gear (jackets, poles, shoes)
- Emergency evacuation charges
- Tips, bottled water, beverages
The Kundli Pass Trek is considered moderate to difficult. It involves steep ascents, unmarked trails, and a high-altitude pass (4,550 m). Prior trekking experience and good fitness are recommended.
The best seasons are May to June and September to October, when the weather is stable and the trails are accessible. Monsoons and winters make the route risky due to snow and landslides.
Kundli Pass is at an elevation of 4,550 meters (14,927 feet) above sea level. It is one of the lesser-known but highest passes in the Dhauladhar range.
Yes, all camping gear, tents, sleeping bags, mats, and meals are included in the package. Campsites include Thatharna, Bakhlodu, Galod Gote, and Kwarsi village.
You should pack warm layers, waterproof jacket, trekking shoes, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal medicines, and a small daypack. A detailed packing list is shared upon booking.
The trek starts from Khaniyara village, a 30-minute drive from McLeod Ganj. We provide transport from McLeod Ganj to the starting point as part of the package.
The trek ends at Choli village (via Kwarsi village) in the Chamba region. From there, you can drive to Bharmour (14 km) or Chamba town (50 km).
Yes, solo trekkers can join a group departure or request a custom private trek. It’s best done with a local guide due to the remote and unmarked terrain.
Mobile signal is mostly unavailable after Day 1, and there’s no electricity at campsites. Carry a power bank and inform family in advance about limited connectivity.
It is not recommended for complete beginners. However, if you are physically fit and have done at least one high-altitude trek before, you may consider it with proper preparation.
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