Ralam Dhura Pass Trek

Day 1 Kathgodam to Munsiyari (280 km / 9-10 Hours Drive)

Your Ralam Dhura Pass trekking adventure begins with a long but scenic drive from Kathgodam to Munsiyari, a beautiful hill town in Uttarakhand. The 280 km journey takes about 9 to 10 hours and passes through picturesque towns like Almora, Bageshwar, and Thal.

Along the way, enjoy mesmerizing views of lush green valleys, pine forests, and distant Himalayan peaks. Munsiyari, often called the “Little Kashmir of Uttarakhand,” is the gateway to the Johar Valley and offers stunning views of the Panchachuli Peaks. It’s the perfect place to rest and prepare for the challenging trek ahead.

Day 2 Munsiyari to Lilam (16 km Drive) & Trek to Paton Village (7 km)

After an early breakfast, take a short drive from Munsiyari to Lilam, the starting point of your trek. From here, your Ralam Dhura Pass Trek officially begins with a gentle ascent along the Gori Ganga River.

The trail offers stunning views of deep valleys, waterfalls, and lush green forests filled with rhododendrons and oak trees. As you continue trekking, you’ll reach Paton Village, a peaceful hamlet known for its traditional stone houses and warm local hospitality. Spend the evening exploring the village and soaking in the serene Himalayan atmosphere.

Day 3 Trek from Paton Village to Lungriani (13 km)

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the Himalayas as you move from Paton Village to Lungriani. The trail passes through rugged mountain terrain, crossing wooden bridges over glacial streams and following the beautiful Gori Ganga Valley.

As you gradually ascend through alpine meadows and rocky trails, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the snow-clad peaks. Keep an eye out for Himalayan birds and wildlife along the way. The day ends at Lungriani, a peaceful campsite nestled amidst stunning mountain scenery.

Day 4 Trek from Lungriani to Killadum (13 km)

The trek from Lungriani to Killadum takes you further into the remote Johar Valley, where the landscape becomes more rugged and the air thinner. The trail involves steep climbs and rocky paths, making it a true test of strength and stamina.

As you gain altitude, the lush greenery gradually gives way to barren mountain slopes and icy terrain. By evening, you’ll reach Killadum, a stunning high-altitude campsite surrounded by glaciers and snow-covered ridges — a perfect spot to rest and admire the raw beauty of the Himalayas.

Day 5 Trek from Killadum to Ralam Village (13 km)

Today’s trek takes you from Killadum to Ralam Village, a scenic settlement located in the upper Johar region. The trail offers breathtaking views of alpine meadows, glacial streams, and rocky moraine fields formed by centuries of ice movement.

As you approach Ralam Village, the landscape becomes more open and dramatic, surrounded by towering snow-clad peaks. This peaceful village is an ideal acclimatization stop before you begin your ascent to the higher altitudes of the Ralam Dhura Pass.

Day 6 Trek from Ralam Village to Yangchuri Base Camp (8 km)

The trek from Ralam Village to Yangchuri Base Camp (YBC) marks the beginning of the high-altitude adventure. The trail passes through rugged glacier moraines, rocky ridges, and icy stretches, gradually increasing in elevation.

As you climb higher, the landscape becomes harsher yet incredibly beautiful, offering panoramic views of towering Himalayan peaks all around. The Yangchuri Base Camp serves as a crucial resting point before the challenging climb to the Ralam Dhura Pass. Spend the evening acclimatizing and enjoying the breathtaking mountain views.

Day 7 Trek from Yangchuri Base Camp to Ralam Dhura Base Camp (6 km)

Today’s trek is short but demanding as you make your way from Yangchuri Base Camp to Ralam Dhura Base Camp. The trail climbs steeply through rocky moraines and glacial sections, testing your endurance and balance at high altitude.

Upon reaching the Ralam Dhura Base Camp, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks and the vast valleys below. This campsite serves as the final preparation point before you attempt to cross the Ralam Dhura Pass, one of the most challenging sections of the expedition.

Day 8 Trek from Ralam Dhura Base Camp to Ralam Dhura Pass (5,645 m) & Descend to Nipakchung Valley (10 km)

This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the entire Ralam Dhura Pass Trek. The day begins with a steep and technical climb to reach the Ralam Dhura Pass (5,645 meters) — the highest point of the expedition. The ascent involves navigating through ice, snow, and rocky ridges, demanding focus, endurance, and teamwork.

From the top of the pass, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable 360-degree view of the majestic Himalayan ranges, including distant snow-capped peaks and vast glacial valleys.

The descent towards Nipakchung Valley is equally thrilling and requires caution, as some sections may need rope support for safety. By evening, you’ll reach the valley — a serene campsite surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness, offering a perfect place to rest after an intense day of trekking.

Day 9 Trek from Nipakchung Valley to Sipu (13 km)

After conquering the Ralam Dhura Pass, today’s journey takes you on a gradual descent into the remote Darma Valley. The trail passes through lush alpine meadows, crosses crystal-clear glacial streams, and winds around boulder-strewn landscapes, showcasing the raw beauty of the Himalayas.

By afternoon, you’ll arrive at Sipu, a small yet picturesque mountain settlement. It’s the perfect place to rest, recover, and soak in the peaceful surroundings after the challenging days spent at high altitude.

Day 10 Trek from Sipu to Dantu Village (8 km)

Today’s trek is moderate and scenic as you move from Sipu to Dantu Village. Descending to lower altitudes, the landscape transforms into lush green pastures, flowing streams, and colorful rhododendron forests.

Dantu Village is a charming traditional settlement in the Darma Valley, where you can experience the warm hospitality of the local people. It’s an ideal stop to relax and enjoy the serene valley surroundings.

Day 11 Trek from Dantu to Panchachuli Base Camp (5 km) & Descend to Dugtu, Drive to Dharchula (70 km)

Start the day with an early morning trek from Dantu to Panchachuli Base Camp, enjoying a gentle ascent through scenic meadows. At the base camp, take in the stunning close-up views of the famous five Panchachuli peaks, a perfect photo opportunity and a memorable experience.

After exploring the base camp, descend to Dugtu, from where a 70 km drive takes you to Dharchula, a town near the India-Nepal border. This marks the near end of your Ralam Dhura trekking adventure, offering time to relax and reflect on the incredible journey.

Day 12 Buffer Day

Day 12 serves as a buffer day to accommodate any delays caused by unfavorable weather or trail conditions.

If the day is free, trekkers can explore Dharchula, a charming town near the India-Nepal border, known for its vibrant local culture, traditional markets, and rich trade history. This day also provides a chance to relax and enjoy the surroundings before concluding the expedition.

Day 13 Drive from Dharchula to Kathgodam

The Ralam Dhura Pass Trek concludes with a scenic drive from Dharchula back to Kathgodam. The route winds through mountain roads, lush valleys, and charming villages, offering one last chance to enjoy the stunning Himalayan landscapes.

Arrive in Kathgodam by evening, marking the end of an unforgettable high-altitude trekking adventure.