Rupin Pass Trek

Region

Himachal Pradesh

Duration

7 days

Max. Altitude

15350 ft.

Trek Distance

42 kms

Grade

Moderate to difficult

Fixed Departures

September - 2026

₹16,500

+5% GST / Person

Highlights

Add-ons

Add on information

Rupin Pass Trek Overview

Why is Rupin Pass a Must-Do trek?

Major Attractions along the Rupin Pass Trek

Rupin Pass trek- A Journey through Meadows, Waterfalls, and Snowy Trails

Himachal is well known for its stunning natural beauty, and you can experience it at its best during the Rupin Pass trek. This trek is one of the most thrilling and picturesque adventures in the Himalayas, offering beautiful landscapes, diverse trails, and an immersive cultural experience. It takes you through dense forests, lush meadows, and rocky terrain before reaching the majestic Rupin Pass. The ever-changing scenery keeps the journey exciting, with every step revealing a new wonder of nature. Along the way, you will witness cascading waterfalls, cross wooden bridges over crystal-clear streams, and walk through high-altitude meadows decorated with little vibrant wildflowers.
The trek begins from Bawta village, a charming settlement known for its traditional Kath-Kuni style wooden houses, made from sturdy deodar cedar wood. These homes not only add to the village’s rustic charm but also provide a warm and cozy atmosphere, perfect for the chilly mountain nights. The trail takes you through dense oak and rhododendron forests, where the air is filled with the fresh scent of pine and the chirping of birds. The trek offers you picturesque panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and valleys stretching as far as the eye can see.

Eligiblity for Rupin Pass Trek

Rupin Pass Trek Itinerary

01. Arrival In Bawta

02. Bawta to Jakha

03. Jakha to Saruwas Thatch

04. Saruwas Thatch to Dandreyash Thatch

05. Dandreyash Thatch to Upper Waterfall

06. Upper Waterfall to Ronti Gad via Rupin Pass

07. Ronti Gad to Sangla & Drive to Shimla

Arrival In Bawta

Rupin Pass Trek begins in Bawta, a peaceful Himalayan village located in the mountains. The journey to Bawta is a long but pleasing drive from Shimla, with views of the valleys and rivers along the way. If you have opted for transportation with us, our team will pick you up from the Shimla Bus Stand, and together, we’ll head towards this charming base camp.
Leaving Shimla behind, the road takes you through mountain terrain. You’ll pass through Rohru, a small town on the bank of the Pabbar River, which also serves as the last ATM point before the trek. After Rohru, the route splits. One leading to Janglik, the base camp for Buran Ghati Pass Trek, and the other leading to Bawta, your base for Rupin Pass Trek.
Bawta village stands out for its traditional Kath-kuni style wooden houses, crafted from deodar cedar wood. These homes are not only aesthetically beautiful but also exude a rich, woody fragrance, and provide an extremely warm and comforting atmosphere. The thick wooden walls make the interiors cozy and well-insulated, that is perfect for the chilly mountain nights.
At night, you can step outside and look up. The sky over Bawta is dotted with countless twinkling stars. The quiet, starlit surroundings make for a peaceful and magical evening before you settle in for a good night’s rest.

Bawta to Jakha

The trek from Bawta to Jakha starts with a mix of trails, including sections of unpaved roads leading to Jiskun village. As you walk through this quaint Himalayan settlement, you’ll notice traditional wooden houses reflecting the architectural charm of the region.
Shortly after Jiskun, one of the most scenic parts of the trek unfolds, where small water streams flow gently along the path. You will cross a wooden bridge built over these streams, a simple yet beautiful structure that perfectly complements the natural charm of the trek.
As you progress further, the trail takes a steep ascent toward Jakha, the highest and last village on this route. Due to its location on a steep slope, Jakha, often called the “Hanging Village,” is a fascinating sight. Settled on a steep slope, it seems to blend seamlessly with the mountains. The houses here are built in a way that they appear to be stacked on top of one another. This unique layout creates a unique sight.
After reaching Jakha, you will settle into a traditional homestay. The cozy interiors provide warmth and comfort after a day’s trek. The evening presents an opportunity for further exploration. You can take an acclimatization walk to Dhara Village, where the temple of Dhara Devta stands. Locals hold deep faith in this deity, and the visit provides a glimpse into the spiritual side of life in these remote mountains.
With a fulfilling day behind you, you can rest in the comfort of your homestay, preparing for the adventure that lies ahead.

Jakha to Saruwas Thatch

Today, you start from Jakha, passing through wooden houses, a playground, and farmlands. The first few hundred meters are steep, but soon the trail levels into a gradual ascent. Along the way, you’ll come across an old wooden house, weathered by time and nature, standing strong after many years. Its age and charm make it a very unique landmark, and draws trekkers to pause and capture photos. As you continue, you enter the dense forest of cedar and fir trees. The cool shade of the trees makes the walk pleasant, and the fresh mountain air feels refreshing.
After descending through the dense forest, the forest gradually opens up, leading to Udaknal. Just beyond this, you’ll come across a wooden bridge built over the Rupin River. Crossing this sturdy yet rustic structure is a memorable moment, with the river rushing below. Once past the bridge, the trail follows alongside the Rupin River, with mesmerizing views of its glistening waters as you continue your journey.
Soon, you’ll see small tea stalls.There are small dhabas here that serve simple, local food, a great place to rest and refuel. Water showers from natural springs appear along the way, adding to the beauty of the route. A little further, you will pass through Buransh Kandi, a small rhododendron forest. If you are trekking during the blooming season, the trees will be covered in bright red flowers. This section is short but adds a lovely contrast to the green surroundings. After some time, the path opens into Saruwas Thatch. It is a vast meadow with soft grass and beautiful views all around.

Saruwas Thatch to Dandreyash Thatch

Today, you will start your journey towards Dandreyash Thatch. It is an easy and short trek, and once you reach the campsite, the views will amaze you! This is one of the most beautiful camping spots on the trek. The beauty of Dandreyash Thatch takes on different shades, and the landscape widens into yet another beautiful meadow. And the most awaited part of this journey is the view of Upper and Lower Waterfalls.
The Upper Rupin Waterfall crashes down from a great height, cutting through the rocky cliffs with force. A mist rises from where it hits the ground, sometimes creating a rainbow in the sunlight. Below, the Lower Rupin Waterfall flows more gently, cascading down in delicate streams that weave through the valley like silver threads. Watching these waterfalls flow down from high cliffs is a sight to remember.

Dandreyash Thatch to Upper Waterfall

Today’s trek will be short, but it is one of the most exciting and challenging sections of the journey. The day begins with an easy, relatively flat walk, giving your legs some time to warm up before the real climb begins. Soon, the ascent starts near the Lower Rupin Waterfall, and from here, the trail becomes steep and demanding.
The climb takes you along the edges of the Upper Rupin Waterfall, showcasing some of the most beautiful views of the trek. The sound of water crashing down fills the air, and you might even feel a cool mist as you get closer. The path is narrow and requires careful steps, especially as you navigate sections where loose rocks and uneven terrain make the climb more challenging.
Once you gain height, the scenery becomes even more breathtaking. Turning back, you can see Dandreyash Thatch spread out below, a tiny green meadow in the vastness of the mountains. The valley stretches far and wide, with streams and waterfalls cutting through the rugged landscape. This is one of those moments where you truly feel the scale of the Himalayas around you.
Reaching the Upper Waterfall is an achievement. The view from here is simply spectacular. The entire valley, the winding trails, and the waterfalls flowing in different directions create a picture-perfect scene. Sitting here, watching the clouds drift over the peaks and the waterfalls roaring below, you realize why this trek is so special. It’s a moment to pause, take it all in, and appreciate the journey so far.
At night, you will camp here. The experience of sleeping at such high altitude, surrounded by rugged cliffs and under a sky full of stars, is memorable. The darkness falls, and the temperature starts to drop sharply, and the chilly air reminds you of the remoteness of this place. Trekkers huddle around, sharing stories over a warm meal, while the sound of the waterfall continues to echo through the valley.
Lying in your tent, wrapped in layers to fight the cold, you can hear the distant murmurs of the wind and the rhythmic roar of the cascading water.

Upper Waterfall to Ronti Gad via Rupin Pass

Today is the most awaited day on the trek as you cross Rupin Pass, the highest point of your journey. The day begins early from Upper Waterfall Camp, with a steep ascent ahead. The trail passes through rocky sections, icy patches, and narrow ridges, making it essential to walk carefully. You will encounter risky patches where you need to take each step with caution.
As you make your way up, you will reach Rattapheri, a vast open area. This spot is often used as a rest point before attempting the final steep climb to Rupin Pass. From here, the ascent gradually increases, leading you to Rupin Gully, one of the trickiest sections of the trek.
Rupin Gully is a narrow passageway between two towering rock faces. It is steep, slippery, and often covered with ice or loose scree, making it one of the most demanding sections of the trek. You will need to move carefully, using your hands for support where necessary. The wind howls through the gap, adding to the adventure of crossing it. Once you emerge from the gully, you finally step onto Rupin Pass.
At Rupin Pass, you can see the wide, open Himalayan mountains of Himachal Pradesh. In summer, the area feels lively with green patches, and you might see shepherds taking care of their sheep and goats in the high-altitude meadows nearby.
After soaking in the views, the journey is far from over. The descent to Ronti Gad is long and demanding, as you lose altitude rapidly. The trail consists of snow patches, loose stones, and uneven terrain, so maintaining a steady pace is important. As you descend, the Kinnaur Kailash peak slowly comes into view, here the trek becomes even more beautiful.
After a long trek descent, you finally arrive at Ronti Gad, your campsite for the night. This wide, open meadow has a calm and peaceful feel, making it a perfect place to rest after the day’s trek. Here, the sun sets, the sky glows in shades of orange before fading into the night. The temperature drops quickly. Enjoy a warm meal under the blanket of stars, and end your day with a happy heart.

Ronti Gad to Sangla & Drive to Shimla

The day begins with a long descent from Ronti Gad towards Sangla Kanda, a beautiful alpine meadow. The trail passes through rolling green landscapes, gradually leading you to lower altitudes where the air feels thicker and the surroundings become lusher.
While you make your way down, you’ll start noticing signs of habitation, small shepherd huts, grazing cattle, and terraced fields appearing in the distance. The descent is relatively easier on the legs compared to the steep climbs of the previous days. Here, you can soak in the changing scenery at a relaxed pace.
After a few hours of trekking, you will pass through coniferous trees before reaching Sangla town, a charming settlement in Kinnaur district, situated along the banks of the Baspa River. Sangla is known for its apple orchards, traditional wooden houses, and rich Kinnauri culture. The town is surrounded by mountain views, which makes it a perfect spot to conclude your trek.
Here, you can take some time to explore the local area, interact with the friendly locals, or simply rest after completing your adventure. The accomplishment sinks in as you step into civilization after days of trekking through high-altitude terrain.

Health Awareness

Important Links

Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form

How to Reach:

Delhi-Chandigarh-Shimla
Delhi-Chandigarh-Shimla

Pick-Up Information

Options to reach Shimla :

First, you can arrive at Chandigarh, Delhi, Kalka, or Shimla airport. The journey from these locations to Shimla is explained below.

Drop-Off Information

Cost Terms

1. Accommodation (as per the itinerary):

2. Meals (Veg + Egg):

3. Support:

4. Trek equipment:

5. First aid:

6. Mules/porters to carry the central luggage.

7. Cloakroom facility available at pick up point shimla for additional luggage.

8. All necessary permits and entry fees, up to the amount charged for Indian.

9. Services from Bawta to Sangla.

10. Trek Completion Certificate.

Trek Essentials

Backpack with rain cover(40 – 50 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps
Day pack with rain cover20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted)
Walking stickAdvisable (At least one)
Water Bottle / Hydration pack2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask.
Small size tiffin/lunch box1 Nos
SnacksEnergy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors
Personal Medical KitConsult your doctor
T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry)1 Full & 1 Half sleeves
Fleece T-shirt1 Nos
Fleece jacketNot required
Windproof Jacket1 Nos
Down feather / Hollow jacket1 Nos
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower)1 Pair
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry)1 Nos
Fleece PantNot required
Waterproof glovesNot required
Fleece / woollen gloves1 Pair
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant1 Nos
Head torch1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch)
Sun cap1 Nos. (One that covers the neck as well)
Woolen cap1 Nos.
BalaclavaNot required
Buff / Neck-gaiters1 Nos.
SunglassesUV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses
Trekking shoes1 Pair (Water-resistant, high ankle with good grip)
Floaters / flip-flops1 Pair
Cotton socks6 pairs
Woollen socks1 pairs
Gaiters1 Pair (WTM provides when required)
Micro spikes1 Pair (WTM provides when required)
Sunscreen cream1 Nos
Moisturiser1 Nos
Chap-stick / Lip balm1 Nos
Toothbrush and toothpaste1 Nos
Toilet paper & Wipes1 Nos
Soap / hand sanitizers1 Nos
Antibacterial powder1 Nos
Quick dry towel1 Nos

Gallery

Cancellation Terms

To request a cancellation, please email us at info@walkingthemountains.com using your registered email ID.
Cancellations prior to 28 days from the start of the Trip

Refund Options

Cancellation between 27 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip

Refund Options

Cancellation between 14 days and 8 days to the start of the Trip

Refund Options

Cancellation less than 7 days to the start of the trek.

Refund Options

Itinerary and Modifications

Cancellations and Refunds

Force Majeure

FAQ’S

The best time to do Rupin Pass Trek is during Summer and Autumn, during the months of May, June, September, October and November. During these months, the trails are at their best, they are easy to navigate and trek through. The weather is more favourable, making the trek more enjoyable, with wildflower blooms and lush green meadows that add vibrant colors to the landscape.

Rupin Pass Trek is a moderate to difficult grade trek. The trail includes steep climbs, rocky terrain, and narrow paths and even trekking with a waterfall.

Yes, it is recommended that you have some level of fitness and experience in trekking. The Rupin Pass Trek is moderately difficult and takes you at an altitude of 15,350 feet, so it requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance. The trail includes steep climbs, rocky terrain, and narrow paths, so prior experience in trekking can help you tackle the challenges with ease. Moreover, the Rupin Pass Trek can be unpredictable, and the weather conditions can change quickly, so having prior trekking experience can help you adapt better to the challenges on the trail. However, with proper training and preparation, even first-time trekkers can undertake the Rupin Pass Trek and enjoy the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences along the way. It is always advisable to consult with a trekking company or a professional guide to assess your fitness level and discuss the requirements of the trek before embarking on the journey.

The Rupin Pass Trek is a stunning journey through the lesser-known parts of the Indian Himalayas. The trail is filled with diverse landscapes, from dense forests of oak and rhododendron to high-altitude meadows and snow-covered slopes. The Rupin River is a constant companion on the trek, providing a soothing soundtrack as it rushes through the valleys. The major highlight of the trek is the Rupin Pass, which sits at an altitude of 15,350 feet and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Another highlight of the Rupin Pass trek is the Rupin waterfall, a three tier beautiful waterfall. As you make your way up to the pass, the scenery changes dramatically, with the rocky terrain giving way to patches of snow and ice. The Rupin Pass Trek is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and experience, but the rewards are well worth the effort. You'll have the chance to witness the raw beauty of the Himalayas and immerse yourself in the culture of the remote villages that dot the trail.

Rupin Pass Trek is generally considered safe, but like any high-altitude trek, it comes with its share of risks and challenges. However, with proper preparation, precautions, and guidance, you can minimize the risks and ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. One of the main risks on the Rupin Pass Trek is altitude sickness, which can affect you at high altitudes. It is important to acclimatize properly and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness. We follow a well-planned itinerary with gradual altitude gain to help you acclimatize properly. It is always advisable to undertake the Rupin Pass Trek with a trustable trekking company. It is important to follow safety guidelines and instructions provided by the trek leaders to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

Here are some of the essentials you should carry for the trek:

  1. Trekking shoes:A good pair of trekking shoes is essential for a comfortable trek. Make sure your shoes are well-fitted, sturdy and provide good grip on the trail.
  2. Warm Clothing:The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so it's important to carry warm clothing, including thermal innerwear, fleece jackets, down jacket, and waterproof jacket.
  3. Trekking pants:Carry comfortable and quick-drying trekking pants that are suitable for the weather conditions.
  4. Backpack:A good quality backpack with a capacity of 40-50 liters is ideal for carrying your essentials during the trek.
  5. Sleeping bag:A good quality sleeping bag is essential for a comfortable stay during the camping nights.
  6. Headlamp/Flashlight:Carry a good quality headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries for trekking during early morning or late evening hours.
  7. Water bottle:Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated throughout the trek.
  8. Snacks:Carry energy bars, dry fruits, and snacks for instant energy during the trek.
  9. First aid kit:Carry a basic first aid kit, including band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relief spray, and medicines for altitude sickness.
  10. Sun protection:Carry sunscreen lotion, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the harsh sun rays.
  11. Trekking poles:Trekking poles can help in maintaining balance and reduce the strain on your knees while trekking.