How to Reach Rupin Pass: A Step-by-Step Travel Guide

Introduction: Why Rupin Pass?

Rupin Pass is an experience rather than just a walk. Nestled between Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, this 15,250 ft high-altitude trail offers everything from forests and meadows to snow bridges and waterfalls. It’s not an easy walk, but if you’re up for the challenge, the rewards are unforgettable.

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Step 1: Reach Dehradun – The Gateway to the Trek

Start by getting to Dehradun, the most accessible city to begin your journey. It’s well connected:

• By Flight: Jolly Grant Airport (DED) connects to Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru.

• By Train: Trains from Delhi, Varanasi, and Mumbai reach Dehradun.

• By Road: Overnight buses from Delhi ISBT are budget-friendly.

Stay overnight in Dehradun to rest and prep for the next day. Hotels and hostels near Clock Tower and Rajpur Road are convenient and affordable.

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Step 2: Travel from Dehradun to Dhaula – The Trek Starting Point

From Dehradun, travel to Dhaula, a small village in Uttarkashi. It’s about 200 km, but the mountain roads make this a 10-12 hour journey. The route:
Dehradun → Nainbagh → Purola → Mori → Netwar → Dhaula

Transport options:

• Shared vehicles arranged by trekking groups (₹800–₹1200)

• Private taxis (₹5000–₹6000)

Roads are scenic but bumpy. After Netwar, mobile networks fade. Once at Dhaula, you’re truly off the grid.

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Step 3: The Trek Route – From Dhaula to Rupin Pass and Sangla

The trek is a 52 km adventure spread across 7–9 days:

1. Dhaula to Sewa – Forests, rivers, wooden bridges

2. Sewa to Jhaka – Meet “The Hanging Village” on a cliff

3. Jhaka to Saruwas Thatch – Snow bridges and blooming valleys

4. Saruwas to Dhanderas – Campsite near a giant waterfall

5. Acclimatization Day

6. Dhanderas to Upper Waterfall Camp – Steep climb, starry night

7. Rupin Pass Crossing to Ronti Gad – Highest point with snowfields

8. Descend to Sangla – Trail ends in Himachal Pradesh

Each day offers new views, challenges, and serenity.

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Step 4: Best Time to Visit Rupin Pass

The best windows are:

• May to June: Leftover snow, rhododendrons, mild weather

• September to October: Golden meadows, clear skies

Avoid monsoons (July-August) due to landslides and slippery trails. Winter (Nov–April) is inaccessible due to snow.

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Step 5: Do You Need a Guide or Trekking Company?

While solo treks sound tempting, Rupin Pass isn’t ideal for beginners without guidance. You face high altitudes, tricky trails, and sudden weather shifts.

Rupin pass Trekking with a reputed group is safer. I personally went with The Searching Souls—not because they advertise heavily, but because their itinerary, safety protocols, and trek leaders were solid. No luxury fluff—just efficient, eco-conscious, and professional trekking.

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Step 6: Permits and Entry Requirements

Yes, you’ll need permits:

• Forest permit

• Village entry fees

• Inner Line Permit (for foreigners)

Trekking companies usually handle all this. If you’re solo, arrange permits at Netwar Forest Office and register at Dhaula.

Carry:

• ID (Aadhar/Passport)

• 2-3 photos

• ₹500–₹1000 for fees

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Step 7: Packing Essentials for the Trek

Pack smart and light (under 12 kg):

Clothing:

• 2 trek pants, 3 T-shirts, fleece, padded jacket

• Thermals, gloves, woolen socks, poncho

Gear:

• 50-60L backpack

• Trekking shoes (high ankle)

• Water bottles, torch, sunglasses, sunscreen

Medical Kit:

• Basic meds (Diamox, paracetamol, antacid)

• ORS, personal prescriptions

Avoid overpacking—you’ll feel every extra gram at 15,000 ft.

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Step 8: Network and Safety Tips

• No signal after Mori

• Update family before you lose network

• Always stick with your group

• Hydrate (3L+ daily), rest, and avoid overexertion

• Report AMS symptoms early (headache, nausea)

Guided treks carry oximeters, oxygen, and first-aid—make sure your group does.

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Step 9: Total Cost of the Rupin Pass Trek

A rough estimate:

Total: ₹24,000–₹30,000 (all-in)

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Step 10: Final Thoughts

Rupin Pass is a soul-stirring experience rather than just a hike. It teaches patience, humility, and awe. Whether it’s the hanging village of Jhaka, the icy climb to the pass, or the feeling of standing on snow with clouds below—every moment sticks.

Plan well, train smart, and go with the right company. You won’t just reach Rupin Pass—you’ll leave a part of yourself there.

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FAQs

1. Is Rupin Pass good for beginners?
It’s a moderate to difficult trek. Beginners can try it if they train properly and go with a guide.

2. How many days are needed?
Excluding travel, usually 7 to 9 days on the route.

3. Is mobile network available?
No signal after Mori till Sangla. Jio or BSNL might operate close to Sangla.

4. Can I do the trek solo?
Possible, but not safe unless you’re highly experienced.

5. What’s the highest point?
Rupin Pass – 15,250 ft above sea level.