1. Introduction to the Rupin Pass Trek
A View of the Himalayas’ Magnificence
Let me take you on a journey—one that I’ll never forget. When I signed up for the guided Rupin Pass trek, I thought I was in for some great views and a solid cardio workout. What I didn’t expect was a soul-stirring adventure that would change how I saw the world—and myself.
The Rupin Pass trek is an absolute stunner in the Indian Himalayas. It starts in the quiet villages of Uttarakhand and winds its way through some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes I’ve ever seen, before ending in the picture-perfect meadows of Himachal Pradesh. Snow-capped peaks, hanging villages, thundering waterfalls, thick pine forests, and endless skies—it was like stepping into a different painting every day.
Each sunrise felt like nature whispering, “Welcome to paradise.” Every night under the stars was a reminder of how small yet connected we are. If you’ve ever wondered what pure, unfiltered beauty feels like, this trek has the answer.
Why Choose a Guided Trek For Rupin Pass?
Before I dive into the details of a typical day, let me say this: going guided was the best decision I made. I’m all for independent travel, but up in the Himalayas, there’s no room for guesswork. With ever-changing weather, tricky terrain, and high altitudes, having a trained team by your side is priceless.
Our guides weren’t just leading the way—they were storytellers, medics, chefs, and cheerleaders all rolled into one. They made sure every one of us, from seasoned hikers to complete beginners, felt safe and supported. A big thanks to The Searching Souls for making my dream to rupin pass trekking come true! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker, they’ve got you covered from start to summit.
The trek support team handled everything—from setting up tents and preparing meals to monitoring our health and navigating the trail. I could just soak in the experience without stressing about logistics. Trust me, when you’re gasping for air at 15,000 feet, not having to cook your own food is a blessing.
2. An outline of the itinerary for the Rupin Pass Trek
Duration and Route
So how long does the Rupin Pass trek take? For me, it was a 9-day whirlwind through raw, rugged terrain. This is a general summary of the schedule we adhered to:
- Day 1: Arrive at Dhaula (base camp)
- Day 2: Trek to Sewa
- Day 3: Move to Jhaka (the hanging village)
- Day 4: Reach Suruwas Thatch
- Day 5: Hike to Dhanderas Thatch, which has waterfalls and meadows!
- Day 6: Acclimatization and exploration
- Day 7: Push to Upper Waterfall Camp
- Day 8: To Ronti Gad, cross Rupin Pass
- Day 9: Trek down to Sangla
From the lush river valleys of Uttarakhand to the high-altitude wilderness of Himachal, the trek feels like flipping through nature’s photo album. Every day presented a fresh challenge and a different landscape.
Altitude Profile and Acclimatization
One of the biggest concerns people have is altitude. And honestly, it hit me too. The trek starts at about 5,100 feet and climbs up to a dizzying 15,250 feet at the Rupin Pass. That’s a huge gain in a short span.
Thankfully, the guided trek took care of it smartly. We had a day just for acclimatization, slow-paced hikes, lots of water breaks, and health checks. Our guides carried oximeters and first-aid kits, and constantly reminded us to listen to our bodies.
That day of rest wasn’t just about adjusting to the altitude—it also let us take in the quiet beauty around us. I remember lying on a meadow, watching clouds drift lazily by, and realizing how much noise we carry in our everyday lives.
3. Morning Rituals on the Trek
Wake-Up Call with a View
TThe only sounds in the mountains are the gentle rustle of tents, the chirping of Himalayan birds, and the sporadic moo of a faraway cow. There is no snooze button. Most mornings, I woke up around 5:30 or 6 AM, gently nudged by our guides or the smell of chai wafting through the camp.
Unzipping my tent door was like pulling back the curtain to a dream—mountain peaks bathed in golden sunlight, mist curling over the valleys, and fresh air so clean it made city life feel like a bad habit.
And yes, stepping outside in the cold was brutal, but one look at that view and I forgot all about freezing fingers and stiff legs.
Morning Tea and Breakfast Routine
First things first: tea. Always. Our kitchen team handed us warm water to freshen up, followed by steaming cups of ginger tea. Then came a hearty breakfast—usually poha, paratha, boiled eggs, and a slice or two of bread with jam or butter.
Breakfast wasn’t just about food—it was about getting our bodies fuelled up and our spirits pumped. Our trek leader would gather everyone, lay out the day’s route, the expected challenges, and share fun facts about the trail ahead.
We’d repack our daypacks, tighten our shoelaces, grab trekking poles, and by 7:30 or 8:00 AM, we were off again, one foot in front of the other, hearts full of wonder.
Preparing for the Day’s Hike
Before each trek day, I’d check my essentials: layered clothing (the weather could go from sunny to snowy real quick), rain jacket, snacks, water bottles, and my camera. We left heavier luggage with porters and carried just what we needed.
There was something deeply grounding about these little rituals. Rolling up my sleeping bag, zipping up my backpack, adjusting my gaiters—each act was a gentle reminder that we don’t need much to feel complete. Just some good shoes, clear skies, and a direction.
4. Daytime Trekking Experience
Trail Terrain and Challenges
No two days on the Rupin Pass are the same. One day you’re hiking through pine forests where sunlight dances through the leaves. The next, you’re crossing wooden bridges over ice-cold rivers or navigating snowy slopes with crampons.
There were days when the trail hugged the edge of cliffs, where one wrong step would send shivers down your spine. Other times, we marched through meadows so lush and green it felt like walking through a postcard.
Each challenge, whether it was a steep ascent or a slippery descent, came with its reward—a view so incredible it made every drop of sweat worth it.
Group Dynamics and Trekking Pace
Our group had people of all ages and backgrounds—from college students to retired professionals. But on the trail, titles and job roles don’t matter. We were all just hikers, sharing the same struggle and joy.
The pace was comfortable, thanks to our guides. We stopped often to catch our breath, refill water, and just admire the views. Sometimes we sang, sometimes we walked in silence. Occasionally, someone would exclaim, “Look!”—pointing to a bird, a cloud formation, or a wildflower none of us noticed.
It wasn’t just about the destination; it was about who we became on the way there.
Midway Breaks and Lunch Stops
Lunch usually came as a relief. We’d find a flat patch—under a tree, beside a stream, or on a sun-drenched slope—and sit down to enjoy hot rice, dal, and veggies. Some days, we had packed lunches like aloo paratha or sandwiches.
These pauses were about connecting, not just about eating. We shared snacks, laughed about slips and falls, and swapped stories of past treks and future dreams.
Then, with bellies full and spirits higher, we’d strap on our bags and start again, our shadows stretching longer with every step.
5. Scenic Highlights and Natural Beauty
Waterfalls, Meadows, and Snow Bridges
Oh, the things I saw on this trek! Imagine coming around a bend and seeing a massive waterfall that cuts a cliff in two. Or walking across snow bridges that crunch under your boots as icy streams rush below.
Dhanderas Thatch was a personal favorite. A vast, flower-filled meadow at the base of cascading waterfalls—it felt like a secret world untouched by time.
And the snow bridges? It seemed like entering a fantasy world when you walked on them. The way the sun sparkled on the ice, the sound of water gurgling beneath—it was surreal, humbling, and unforgettable.
6. Campsite Life and Evening Routine
Reaching the Campsite and Settling In
By the time we reached our campsite each day, my legs were usually shot and my shoulders sore. But the moment the colorful tents came into view, it was like getting a second wind. There’s something incredibly comforting about seeing your temporary home nestled against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks or sprawling meadows.
The support team always got there before us and had everything set up—our tents pitched, warm snacks ready, and a huge pot of chai waiting. That first sip of hot tea while sitting on a cold rock, boots off and socks steaming, felt like a luxury resort experience.
After some rest, I’d wander around the campsite, sometimes just soaking up the silence. Other times, I’d be with my camera, chasing the perfect shot of the setting sun or zooming in on a Himalayan Monal fluttering by. Some evenings, I’d join fellow trekkers to chat, play cards, or just sit quietly and stare at the sky.
Dinner, Bonfires, and Stargazing
Dinner was always a cozy affair. We’d huddle inside the dining tent or around a small bonfire (if firewood was available) as the cook team served up piping hot rice, dal, chapati, and a veggie curry. Sometimes there was dessert—kheer or custard—and I promise you, nothing ever tasted so good.
The guides would share stories about previous treks or myths of the mountains, and there were always bursts of laughter when someone cracked a joke or mimicked the sound of a mule snoring.
Then came my favorite ritual—stargazing. I’d step outside, head tilted back, and just lose myself in that endless sky. No city lights. No honking cars. Just the stars, more than I’d ever seen in my life, twinkling like they were celebrating our presence.
Health Checks and Rest
Before sleeping, our guide would walk around checking on everyone. “Any headaches? Dizziness? Lost your appetite?” They’d record our oxygen levels with a pulse oximeter, a simple but essential safety measure.
Then it was time to snuggle into our sleeping bags, tucked inside the tent. Sure, it was cold. Sometimes, freezing. But wrapped in layers, a thermal liner, and the exhaustion of the day, I usually passed out as soon as I zipped the flap shut.
7. Interactions with Locals and Cultural Touchpoints
Village Visits and Homestay Experiences
One of the most beautiful surprises of the Rupin Pass trek wasn’t the scenery—it was the people. As we passed through villages like Sewa and Jhaka, we met locals who welcomed us with warm smiles and curious eyes.
In one village, we stayed in a traditional wooden homestay. The house had low ceilings, stone floors, and a fire burning in the corner where the family cooked dinner. They shared stories, let us help knead the dough for chapatis, and taught us a few words in their local dialect.
I was amazed at their resilience. With harsh winters, poor connectivity, and limited basic resources, mountain life is difficult. And yet, they were content, even joyful. It made me realize how little we need to be truly happy.
Local Cuisine and Traditions
Food was another way we connected. We were given Siddu, a steamed Himachali bread filled with walnuts, by a villager during one of our stops. It was incredible. And there were homemade pickles, lentil soups with local herbs, and thick buttermilk served in clay cups.
We even got to witness a small puja (prayer ceremony) in a local temple. As bells rang and incense swirled in the cold air, the priest gave each of us a scarlet thread for protection. These cultural moments, woven into the trek, made it richer and more personal.
8. The Role of Trek Guides and Support Crew
How Guides Enhance the Experience
Let me just say this—our guides were superheroes. They weren’t just pointing out the path. They were monitoring our health, adjusting pace based on the group’s needs, motivating us during tough climbs, and making sure no one felt left behind.
At one point, a fellow trekker felt dizzy and short of breath. Our guide calmly assessed her vitals, gave her glucose and fluids, and walked with her the rest of the way to camp. No drama, no panic—just quiet, competent care.
Beyond safety, they also made the experience deeply immersive. They knew every peak by name, every plant’s medicinal use, and every folktale that came with the land. Hiking with them was like walking through a live documentary.
The Importance of Porters and Cook Staff
And let’s not forget the backbone of the trek—the porters and kitchen crew. These guys carried heavy loads up and down treacherous trails, often reaching camp hours before us. And then, with barely a break, they’d start chopping vegetables, boiling water, and getting meals ready.
They did it all with smiles, jokes, and that calm mountain grace. Watching them work—balancing baskets on their heads, hammering tent pegs into frozen soil, stirring dal over a smoky stove—it was humbling. They made the trek possible, and they made it comfortable.
9. Safety Measures and Protocols on the Trek
Altitude Sickness Prevention
Being at high altitude is no joke. On one of the steeper climbs, I felt a pounding headache and a wave of nausea. I mentioned it to our guide during a break, and immediately he had me sit down, hydrate, and rest.
We took acclimatization seriously. The team encouraged a slow, steady pace. No sprinting. Lots of water. Light meals. And plenty of breaks. They also gave us tips on spotting the signs of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) early—headaches, fatigue, lack of appetite, dizziness.
We were told from the start that the mountain always has the final say. If someone needed to descend for their health, no summit was worth risking it. That respect for the mountain’s rules made me feel safe the whole way.
Emergency Preparedness
The guides carried oxygen cylinders, first-aid kits, and walkie-talkies to stay in touch with each other. If anything went wrong—injury, sickness, bad weather—they had backup plans ready.
In fact, one day when a storm rolled in faster than expected, they quickly rerouted us to a safer trail. We got wet, yes, but we were out of danger. That kind of preparedness isn’t something you get from a blog or an app—it’s real experience in action.
10. Reflections and Journaling
Personal Growth During the Trek
You don’t just climb mountains on this trek—you climb versions of yourself you didn’t know existed. There were days I wanted to give up. My legs were jelly, my lungs burning, and yet, something inside kept whispering, “Just one more step.”
That voice got louder every day. I found reserves of strength I didn’t know I had. I learned to sit with discomfort, to breathe through fear, to embrace stillness.
In the evenings, I’d jot down thoughts in my journal—little sketches of the trail, snippets of conversations, things I felt and didn’t have words for. Looking back, those pages are a treasure.
Sharing Stories with Fellow Trekkers
And then there were my trail mates—strangers who quickly became friends. We shared sunscreen, snacks, laughs, and even tears. Around the bonfire, we opened up about life, dreams, heartbreaks, and hopes.
By the end of the trek, we had inside jokes, nicknames, and a WhatsApp group filled with trail selfies and memes. I walked in alone, but left with a small mountain family.
11. The Final Day: Conquering the Rupin Pass
The Most Challenging Climb
This was the big one. The day I had been both fearing and fantasizing about—the climb to Rupin Pass. We started before sunrise, wrapped in every layer we could find. The cold was biting, and the sky was still painted with stars. As we made our way up the mountain, I felt a mix of nerves, determination, and quiet awe.
The trail was steep—at times, it felt like I was crawling up rather than walking. Snow crunched underfoot, the wind howled, and my breath came out in cloudy puffs. My fingers were numb, my legs aching, but I kept going. We all did. We encouraged each other with every grunted step, every shared energy bar.
And then, we reached it—the pass. 15,250 feet above sea level. The wind was brutal, but the view? Oh, the view was pure magic. Peaks stretched out in every direction like a jagged crown. We screamed. We cried. We hugged. We took photos like our lives depended on it.
Emotions at the Summit
Standing up there, I felt something shift inside me. I had doubted myself a hundred times before that moment, but I made it. The summit wasn’t just a place on the map—it was proof that I could push through fear, fatigue, and my own limits.
Everyone was on an emotional high. Some sat silently, staring at the horizon. Others whooped and waved flags. One guy even proposed to his girlfriend. (She said yes. We all cried again.)
The descent awaited, but for those precious moments, time froze. We were literally on top of the world, and I’ve never felt so small, yet so powerful.
12. The Descent: A Different Challenge
Coming down from the Rupin Pass wasn’t easy either. The descent to Ronti Gad was steep and slippery in parts. My knees screamed in protest, and every step required focus. But the adrenaline from the summit still buzzed through me, fueling each movement.
The scenery began to change—less snow, more green patches. The further we dropped in altitude, the warmer it got, and we began peeling off layers.
It was during this part of the trek that I finally had the chance to reflect, to really think. My thoughts wandered from the simplicity of mountain life to the complications I left behind at home. Everything felt different now—calmer, clearer.
By the time we reached our campsite, the hard part was over. We all gathered for one last camp dinner, and it turned into a full-on party. Music from someone’s speaker, leftover candy, group photos, and so much laughter. It felt like graduation day at the school of life.
13. The Last Mile: Sangla to Ronti Gad
Our last morning began with mixed feelings. I was sore, I was happy, but I was also a little sad. The journey was ending, and I wasn’t quite ready for it.
The trek from Ronti Gad to Sangla was mostly downhill, winding through forests and rocky paths. There were fewer stops for photos now—we had all seen more than enough to fill albums. Instead, we focused on walking, soaking in every last moment.
As we entered Sangla, the signs of civilization slowly returned—metal rooftops, satellite dishes, phone signals. I remember hearing my phone ping and almost wishing it hadn’t. I wasn’t ready to scroll through emails or check Instagram. Not yet.
At the guesthouse, we celebrated with real beds, hot showers, and proper meals. We exchanged contact info, hugs, and promises to trek together again. Then it was over, without warning.
But something inside me had shifted permanently. The Rupin Pass trek gave me more than just breathtaking views—it gave me clarity, confidence, and connection.
14. Conclusion: What the Rupin Pass Trek Taught Me
The Rupin Pass trek wasn’t just a hike—it was a transformation. I came looking for adventure and left with a renewed perspective on life.
I learned that I’m stronger than I think, that discomfort is where growth hides, and that nature is the best therapist money can’t buy. I discovered the joy of walking in silence, the power of teamwork, and the peace that comes with disconnecting from the world.
Every aching muscle, every breathless step, every sleepless night in a tent—it was all worth it. If you’re even slightly considering doing this trek, let me just say: go. You won’t just see the mountains—you’ll find yourself among them.
