What Trekkers Say: Stories from the Rupin Pass Trek

The Rupin Pass Trek is often described as one of the most scenic and varied high-altitude treks in India. Stretching across Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, it offers a blend of raw Himalayan wilderness, hanging villages, vast meadows, roaring rivers, and a dramatic climb to a 15,250 ft snow-covered pass.
But what truly brings the trek to life are the voices of those who’ve walked its trails. Here’s what trekkers say about this iconic journey—quoted directly from their experience on the trail.
Rishi, 33, Gurgaon – “It felt like walking through an open-air museum of landscapes.”
“Every day of the trek felt like a completely different environment. We started in lush pine forests and ended in a snow desert. The variety is unbelievable.
Jhaka village was a personal highlight—it’s perched so steeply on a mountainside that it looks like it’s hanging in the sky. Then the trek winds through blooming rhododendron forests, stretches of alpine meadows, and finally snowfields.
The final climb to Rupin Pass is both challenging and surreal. Ice on either side, a steep ascent, and then a view that opens up like a curtain lifting on the Himalayas. I’ve done other treks, but this was the most dramatic in terms of terrain and reward.”
Rishi’s account highlights what makes the Rupin Pass Trek truly special—its unmatched variation in scenery packed into a single route.
Ananya, 19, Pune – “I couldn’t believe how much the trail changed every few hours.”
“As a first-time trekker, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but Rupin Pass completely exceeded anything I imagined. One morning we were crossing wooden bridges over a thunderous river, and by afternoon we were in silent alpine meadows.
The lower waterfalls are massive and loud—you can feel the vibration in your feet when you stand near them. Then higher up, it’s just snow, silence, and the wind.
The trek felt like a movie with different scenes stitched together beautifully.”
Ananya’s experience captures how the Rupin Pass Trek offers not just a physical journey, but a constantly unfolding visual spectacle for every age group.
Rajiv & Meena, 64 & 61, Bengaluru – “It was one of the most scenic trails we’ve ever walked.”
Rajiv: “We’ve done walking holidays in Europe, but Rupin was on a completely different level. The landscape isn’t just beautiful—it’s powerful.”
Meena: “The contrast between green valleys and snow-covered mountains in one frame was breathtaking. Even at our slower pace, we had plenty of time to take it all in. The guides were incredibly helpful and adapted the pace to suit us.”
Rajiv: “The day we crossed the snow gully up to the pass was unforgettable. We looked back and saw the entire valley below us. It felt like standing on the roof of the world.”
This story shows that the Rupin Pass Trek can be enjoyed by older trekkers who want to experience Himalayan beauty at a more measured pace, without compromising the adventure.
Tara, 28, Mumbai – “Every campsite felt like it belonged on a postcard.”
“From the very first day, I was stunned by the locations we camped at. The site near the Rupin River on Day 2 was my favorite—green grass, river noise, and massive cliffs all around.
Then there was the Dhanderas Thatch campsite—a huge open meadow with streams flowing through and snowy cliffs towering over us. We saw herds of sheep, mountain birds, and even some Himalayan fox tracks.
At higher altitudes, the snow took over. It was like stepping into a different world. I’ve never seen snow like that—clean, untouched, and reflecting every shade of the sky.”
Tara’s story is a reminder that every stop on the Rupin Pass Trek is a destination in itself. With some of the most scenic campsites in Indian trekking, the trail offers daily doses of jaw-dropping natural beauty.
Arvind, 42, Dehradun – “The trail tested us, but rewarded us tenfold.”
“Rupin Pass is not an easy trek, and that’s what makes it rewarding. You cross rivers on narrow wooden planks, ascend steep ridges, and sometimes hike through snow.
But every challenge is met with a stunning view. The waterfall section felt like something out of a fantasy novel. Then the snow bridge—walking across that with the river gushing below was a real adventure.
The final ascent to the pass took the wind out of me. But when I reached the top and saw the valley of Himachal Pradesh opening up ahead, I knew it was worth every step.”
For those seeking a true trekking challenge with epic payoffs, Arvind’s account emphasizes that Rupin Pass delivers both adrenaline and awe.
Liana, 35, Manali – “It’s a dream for photographers—textures, contrasts, and light like nowhere else.”
“As a landscape photographer, I couldn’t believe the richness of this trail. Forests with filtered morning light, stone-roofed villages, swirling waterfalls, wildflowers in the meadows, and pure white snow against deep blue skies.
I shot over 800 photos and still felt like I didn’t capture it all. You’d get fog one moment, sunlight breaking through the next.
The pass itself is like a gateway—from the Garhwal side to the Kinnaur side, everything changes, including the color of the sky. It’s magical.”
For creatives, content creators, and nature lovers, Liana’s story showcases how Rupin Pass Trekking offers endless inspiration and photo opportunities.
A Trek Like No Other
What makes the Rupin Pass Trek unforgettable isn’t just the altitude—it’s the constant variety and beauty of the journey. Every day presents a new landscape, every campsite offers a new frame, and every step brings you closer to views you’ll never forget.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or planning your first big adventure, the Rupin Pass welcomes you with:
- Dramatic altitude shifts
- Changing landscapes
- Cultural encounters in remote villages
- Iconic views at every bend
- And the thrill of crossing a Himalayan pass
Fast Facts about the Rupin Pass Trek:
- Altitude: 15,250 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Duration: 7–9 Days
- Best Time: May–June and September–October
- Start Point: Dhaula, Uttarakhand
- End Point: Sangla, Himachal Pradesh
The Rupin Pass Trek offers an unparalleled journey through some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes of the Himalayas. For those ready to embrace adventure and natural beauty, it promises memories that last a lifetime. Himalayan Daredevils expertly guide trekkers through this magnificent trail, ensuring safety and an unforgettable experience. Ready to take on the challenge? Your Rupin story awaits.
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