The Buran Ghati Trek is fast becoming one of India’s most coveted Himalayan trails, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, exhilarating adventure, and deep immersion into untouched mountain culture. Located in picturesque Himachal Pradesh, this trek bridges two valleys, offering a journey overflowing with diverse forests, rolling meadows, glacial lakes, ancient villages, and the thrill of a high-altitude pass.
Key Details:
Key Points:
The route is moderately challenging and ideal for experienced trekkers or adventurous beginners
The trek is well known for adventure (technical snow descent), changing landscapes, and cultural immersion in authentic villages.
Costs vary based on operator, inclusions, and room sharing. Extra charges apply if a buffer day is used due to bad weather or delays.
Where is the Buran Ghati Trek?
Buran Ghati lies in the Pabbar Valley region of Himachal Pradesh, connecting the traditional village of Janglik (starting point) with Barua in the scenic Baspa Valley (end point).
- Basecamp: Janglik (alt. ~9,200 ft/2,800 m), about 160 km from Shimla.
- Access: Reach Shimla by train, bus, or via Jubbarhatti Airport. Organised transport to Janglik is arranged by trek operators.
Buran Ghati Trek Route and Itinerary
The trek is a scenic crossover, starting in one valley and traversing the Buran Ghati Pass (15,000 ft) before ending in another. The journey is usually 7 to 8 days and covers about 37–40 km.
Typical Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive from Shimla to Janglik (160 km, 9–10 hrs). Last ATM at Rohru; traditional Himachali hospitality at Janglik.
- Day 2: Trek Janglik to Dayara Thatch (6–7 km, 5–6 hrs). Ascend through forests and wheat fields; revel in expansive meadows.
- Day 3: Dayara Thatch to Litham (4–5 km, 3–4 hrs). Cross birch glades and riverside meadows, reach the streamside camp.
- Day 4: Acclimatisation hike to Chandranahan Lake (13,200 ft, sacred glacial lake). Explore snow-patched valleys, return to Litham for the night.
- Day 5: Litham to Dhunda (4–5 km, steep ascent to 13,100 ft). Enter the high alpine and gaze at the dramatic Buran Ghati Pass.
- Day 6: Dhunda to Munirang (11,100 ft) via Buran Ghati (15,000 ft). This is the most adventurous day, summit the icy pass and descend a near-vertical wall (with ropes/technical gear in early summer, boulder hopping in autumn).
- Day 7: Munirang to Barua village (5–6 km, 2–3 hrs). Descend through coniferous forests, apple orchards, and Himalayan hamlets. Return drive to Shimla.
- Day 8: Buffer day for weather-related delays.
Scenery, Nature, and Wildlife
- Forests: Trek through ancient pine, oak, maple, birch, and rhododendron; the forests shift to lush alpine meadows in higher camps.
- Meadows & Wildflowers: Dayara and Litham’s meadows erupt in wildflowers post-snowmelt, offering breathtaking views.
- Lakes & Rivers: Chandranahan Lake, a sacred glacial tarn, is considered the origin of the Pabbar River.
- Fauna: Spot Himalayan musk deer, blue sheep, brown bear (rare), red fox, and mountain birds like the Monal.
- Villages: Janglik and Barua feature distinctive wooden homes and terraces, and showcase authentic Himachali culture and agriculture.
Adventure, Terrain, and Difficulty
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult, requires good fitness and is best suited for trekkers with some prior altitude experience.
- Max Altitude: 15,000 ft (Buran Ghati Pass)
- Technicalities:
- Rappelling/steep ice wall descent from the pass in May–June, boulder descent in autumn.
- Boulder sections and steep climbs after Dhunda.
- River crossings.
- Suitability: Ages 14+ (with adult); fit beginners may manage, but altitude acclimatisation and readiness are critical.
- Risks: Altitude sickness, weather changes, the exposed pass, and steep snowy descents. Safety with certified guides/equipment is critical.
Best Season and Weather
- May–June: Thick snowfields near the pass, thrilling snow-wall rappelling, and spectacular white landscapes.
- September–October: Crisp weather, less snow, autumn colours, and easier navigation across the pass.
- Temperatures: 12–17°C daytime; drops to 0 to –5°C at night in higher camps.
- Buffer Day: It’s important to budget a spare day for possible weather delays, especially at the pass.
Logistics: Accommodation, Food, and Gear
- Accommodation:
- Meals:
- Wholesome vegetarian fare (with eggs where available), freshly prepared by trek staff; dietary needs accommodated with advance notice.
- Equipment List:
- Waterproof, high-ankle trekking shoes
- Multiple warm layers, thermal wear, gloves, and beanies
- Waterproof jacket, poncho, trek poles, UV sunglasses, headlamp
- Personal medical kit, hydration gear, and snacks for high energy
- Technical Gear: Operators provide microspikes, gaiters, helmets, and ropes for technical stretches.
Transport and Permits
- Shimla as Gateway: Arrive by train, bus, or air. Transport to/from Janglik and Barua village is set up by trek companies.
- Permits: Trekking organisations manage all necessary permits and forest fees.
- ID/Medical Documentation: Carry originals and copies of ID, medical/disclaimer forms for checkpoints.
Safety and Medical Support
- Guides and Safety Staff: Professional trek leaders, technical staff, and first aiders accompany trekkers.
- Health Protocols: Pre-trek fitness checks, altitude-readiness, and child suitability checks enforced.
- Medical Support: Basic medical kits, oxygen, and stretchers are readily available. Closest hospitals are at Rohru and Rampur (basic facilities), and advanced care in Shimla.
- Emergency Exits: Possible only at Janglik (before pass) and Barua (after pass).
Unique Highlights and Cultural Experience
- Ancient Villages: Janglik’s old-world charm, hand-carved houses, and Barua’s village architecture give insight into local life.
- Sacred Lakes: Chandranahan Lake is culturally significant and steeped in local myths.
- Seasonal Apples and Stone Fruits: Walk through blooming orchards, especially in late summer and autumn.
- Himalayan Festival: If timed right, trekkers may witness rural mountain festivals or temple rituals.
Practical Tips
- Fitness: Train in advance, including cardio, hill walking, and stair climbing.
- Pack Light: Only essentials; trek companies often offer offloading (for a fee).
- Travel Light to Shimla: Make arrangements to arrive a day early and keep a buffer for return.
- Family-Friendly: Children (14+) must be accompanied by adults and be physically prepared; special treks for juniors below 14 are usually not recommended.
FAQs About Buran Ghati Trek
Where exactly is the Buran Ghati Trek conducted?
In Himachal Pradesh, between Janglik village near Shimla and Barua in Kinnaur.
How difficult is the Buran Ghati Trek?
It is moderate to difficult, demanding fitness, altitude acclimatisation, and readiness for technical crossings/descents.
What is the best time to do the Buran Ghati Trek?
May–June is ideal for snow adventures and rappelling, while September–October offers autumn colours and milder conditions.
Can beginners do Buran Ghati?
Fit beginners can attempt, but prior trekking experience is highly recommended due to altitude and technical sections.
What kind of wildlife and scenery can I expect?
Expect mixed woodlands, wildflower meadows, glacial lakes, snowfields, and possible sightings of musk deer, blue sheep, and Monal birds.
Are medical facilities available during the trek?
Only basic first aid and oxygen are available on the trail; the nearest medical help is hours away. Trek leaders are trained in high-altitude rescue.
Can children join the trek?
Recommended only for teenagers aged 14+ and in good physical health, accompanied by parents.
What technical skills are needed?
Operators teach everything necessary, proper trekking, snow walking, rappelling, but fitness, balance, and mental toughness are musts. Do I need special permits?
Trek organisers arrange all required permits; carry official IDs and signed medical/disclaimer forms.
What should I carry?
High-ankle waterproof trekking shoes, four warm layers, gloves, sunscreen, personal medication, and technical gear as specified by your operator.
Final Thoughts
Whether for adventure seekers craving a technical Himalayan pass or nature lovers enchanted by forest and wildflowers, Buran Ghati combines every element of an epic mountain journey. Blending dynamic landscapes, cultural immersion, pristine meadows, and heart-pounding rappelling, Buran Ghati stands out as a must-do Himalayan trek for well-prepared hikers in search of something truly unforgettable.
