🏔️ Rupin Pass Trek – The Crossover Trail from Shimla to Sangla

Duration: 6 Nights / 7 Days
Region: Shimla (HP) to Sangla (Kinnaur)
Max Altitude: ~15,300 ft
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Season: May to July | September to October
Group Size: 6–12 trekkers


🌄 Overview

The Rupin Pass Trek is one of the most dramatic crossover trails in the Indian Himalayas—starting in the lush green forests of Himachal and ending in the cold desert landscapes of Sangla, Kinnaur.

Expect gushing waterfalls, hanging villages, snowy gullies, wildflower meadows, and high-altitude thrill. This is not just a trek. It’s a story that unfolds one day at a time—with challenges, surprises, and soul-stirring views.

We run this trek with local expertise, experienced mountain guides, and a deep commitment to responsible adventure.


🗓️ Detailed Itinerary

🚙 Day 1: Shimla → Bhauta / Jiskoon Village

The journey begins with a scenic drive from Shimla through famous spots like Green Valley, Kufri, Fagu, and Kharapathar.

  • Drive Time: Shimla to Chirgaon (6 hrs) → Chirgaon to Bhauta (4.5 hrs)

  • Stay: Cozy homestay in Bhauta or Jiskoon

  • Altitude: ~6,700 ft


🥾 Day 2: Bhauta / Jiskoon → Jakha Village

A short hike today through alpine forests and traditional Himachali architecture. Jakha is often called the last hanging village of Himachal.

  • Explore the old-world charm of Jiskoon village

  • Stay at a local homestay in Jakha

  • Altitude: ~8,700 ft


🏕️ Day 3: Jakha → Dhanderas Thatch (Rupin Base Camp)

One of the most scenic parts of the trek begins here.

  • Cross snow bridges, rivers, and meadows with wildflowers

  • Set camp at Dhanderas Thatch—a green meadow surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls

  • Altitude: ~11,500 ft

  • Stay: Tent under the stars


🏞️ Day 4: Dhanderas → Upper Waterfall Camp

This is an acclimatization and ascent day.

  • Climb beside Rupin’s iconic multi-tiered waterfall

  • Walk through carpets of yellow marigold and snow patches

  • Reach Upper Waterfall Camp at ~13,100 ft


🧗‍♂️ Day 5: Upper Waterfall → Rupin Pass → Ronti Gad

The most challenging and rewarding day.

  • Early 5 AM start with packed breakfast

  • Climb steep snow gully to reach Rupin Pass (~15,250 ft)

  • Witness fluttering Tibetan flags, icy winds, and stunning 360° views

  • Descend to Ronti Gad and camp there

  • Total Trek: ~10–11 hours


🏔️ Day 6: Ronti Gad → Sangla (via Nalgani Pass)

Start early and descend toward Sangla via Nalgani Pass and Sangla Kanda meadows.

  • Enjoy your last panoramic views of the Kinnaur ranges

  • Reach Sangla village and celebrate the completion of this iconic crossover

  • Cab ride to Shimla can be arranged

  • Trek Ends


Inclusions

  • 🚐 Transport: Shimla → Bhauta & Sangla → Shimla

  • 🏕️ Tents, sleeping bags, mats (twin sharing)

  • 🥣 Vegetarian meals: Breakfast + Packed Lunch + Dinner

  • ☕ Evening Tea, Soup, Energy Snacks

  • 🧭 Trek Leader, High-Altitude Guides, Porters (support-based)

  • 🏞️ Forest Permits & Entry Fees

  • 🆘 First Aid & Basic Medical Assistance


Exclusions

  • 🚫 Personal expenses (tips, shopping, meals not mentioned)

  • 🏔️ Porter support for personal bags (on-request & chargeable)

  • ❄️ Off-loading charges for backpacks

  • 🚗 Transport not mentioned in inclusions

  • GST 5%


🎒 What to Carry

  • Good trekking shoes (waterproof preferred)

  • Warm thermals, down jacket, windproof jacket

  • Rain cover / poncho

  • Headlamp, gloves, sunglasses

  • Power bank, trekking pole, water bottles

  • Government ID + Medical Certificate


🧭 Quick Facts

  • Best Season: Late May to early July & September to mid-October

  • Trek Style: Point-to-point (not circular)

  • Trek Duration: 6 trek days + travel

  • Trek Grade: Moderate to Challenging (for fit beginners or experienced trekkers)


💬 Words from Trekkers

“Rupin wasn’t just a trek—it was a transformation. Every day felt like a movie scene. The team made it smooth, safe, and soulful.”
Ankita D., Bangalore

“Crossing the pass and reaching Sangla after a night under the stars… unreal. This is what trekking should feel like.”
Raghav S., Mumbai


📍 Join the Next Batch

📅 Fixed departures every week in season | Custom private groups available.