Badasu Pass trek / Borasu Pass trek: Into the Heart of Himalayan Silence. 

Borasu Pass is the most thrilling trek of the Indian Himalayas. However, this trek is not suited for the timid, this is a trail that tests your limits. The Borasu Pass Trek is also known as the Badasu Pass Trek. Borasu Pass stands out as a hidden Himalayan treasure, showcasing untouched wilderness and breathtaking alpine panoramas. This trek is the most adventurous trek among the other treks. Due to the challenges, the trek is less crowded because many trekkers find it difficult. So, if you are looking for an adventurous trek and have experience, Borasu Pass Trek is a must-do trek. Along with the adventurous, the trek offers many historic places and has breathtaking scenic views. Borasu Pass Trek is also a seasonal trek. 

Highlights of the Borasu Pass Trek 

Borasu Pass Trek is renowned for its dramatic terrain and incredible variety, making it a top choice for seasoned trekkers and thrill-seekers exploring the trans-Himalayan wilderness. This is the trek that has challenges which are worth the risk. So, let’s know about the highlights of the trek so that it makes easy to choose Borasu Pass trek. 

1. Borasu Pass is encircled by majestic Himalayan peaks and thick forests teeming with vibrant birdlife and diverse wildlife. 
2. The high altitude of the Borasu Pass Trek makes is challenging. It is one of the highest trekking passes in India. Therefore, to so trek with such high altitude and to go through this adventurous trek you must be fit not only physically but mentally too. The moment you reach the summit, you’re rewarded not just with incredible views, but with an unforgettable feeling of triumph amidst pristine Himalayan grandeur. 
3. As the Borasu Pass trek is between Uttarakhand and Himachal border trekkers get to experience culture of both states. One side you will run into Gadwali culture and on other side you will see Himachali culture and their architecture. 
4. The Borasu Pass trek is strongly connected to history. Borasu Pass was once a route used by local shepherds and traders to travel between Uttarakhand’s Tons Valley and Himachal’s Baspa Valley. Trekking this path today feels like stepping back in time, giving you a strong connection to the region’s history and culture. 
5. During the Borasu Pass Trek, you will pass through many famous snow-capped peaks and glaciers like: Swargarohini Group, Black Peak (Kala Nag), Bandarpunch, Ruin Sara, and Jaundhar Glacier Peaks, and a glance at Kinnaur Kailash Range. 
6. The Borasu Pass trek takes you deep into nature, far away from touristy trails. After Har Ki Dun, there are no villages or shops—just you, your team, and the mountains. It’s a peaceful and quiet journey, ideal for those who enjoy being in the wild and spending time in silence and reflection. This silence can help you reconnect with yourself. 

The best time to Visit the Borasu Pass trek 

The best time to undertake the Borasu Pass trek is during the pre-monsoon months of May to June and the post-monsoon window from September to October when the weather is generally clear and trail conditions are most stable. It’s important to know the ideal season as the Borasu pass trek is already challenging so, we do not want any other hurdles while choosing wrong season. 

• Summer (May to Mid-June) 

This is the best time for most trekkers. As the snow starts melting, the route becomes easier to cross, though you’ll still see snow at higher points. The valleys of Har Ki Dun and Ruinsara are full of blooming flowers, adding vibrant color to the landscape. The days are usually warm and comfortable, but the nights can still be chilly. You will get a clear view of the mountains with a trail covered with beautiful green grass. 

• Post Monsoon (September to October)

September to October is also the best season to do the Borasu Pass Trek as these months provide you clear skies with fresh air. It offers you great mountain views which are great for photographs. During this season the green valleys slowly change to golden and orange. The forests and meadows look peaceful and full of autumn beauty. With fewer trekkers on the trail during this time, the route stays quiet and peaceful—perfect for those who prefer solitude and a stronger bond with nature. 

• You must avoid doing Borasu Pass trek in monsoon season which is from July to August. Because during the rainy season you can face landslides and the trails are very slippery. 

How Does Each Day look at the Borasu Pass trek

Borasu Pass is a challenging trek; however, each day has its specialty. Each trekking day brings you different and pleasant weather, accompanied by beautiful landscapes. So, here is a breakdown of the Borasu pass trek for you: 

First Day of the Trek:

You will begin your 1st day from Dehradun to Sankri, which is a 200km long distance that takes around 8 to 10 hours to cover. The altitude of today is around 2,400 m. Sankri is not only the base point for several treks but also a sizable village, home to around 250 houses. While following the route, you’ll pass through scenic places like Nainbagh, Naugaon, Purola, Jarmola, Mori, and Naitwar, each offering its own charm and natural beauty. 

• Breakfast: On the road – Aloo paratha, curd, tea (highway dhaba)
• Lunch: Veg thali (dal, rice, sabzi, chapati)
• Dinner: Seasonal sabzi, dal, rice/roti, salad, sweet (optional)
• Snacks: Biscuits or tea on arrival

2nd day of the Borasu pass trek: 

This marks the first day of your trek. You’ll begin with a 12 km drive from Sankri to Taluka, the road ahead, and then start your trek with a 13 km walk from Taluka to Seema. The altitude of the trek is from 7053 feet to 8530 feet. You will start the trek from Taluka Village which is a small village. As this is the final village of the route stock up all the essential items from here. There will be no network further from this village so, inform your family accordingly. On 2nd day you will pass through many small bridges and streams with zig-zag trails. 

• Breakfast: Upma or poha, boiled eggs/bread, tea
• Lunch: Packed – Paratha, boiled potato/egg, fruit
• Dinner: Hot soup, rice, dal, seasonal vegetables, chapati
• Snacks: Tea with snacks like pakora or Maggi at the campsite

Trekking on 3rd day from Seema to Har Ki dun 

The total distance of the 3rd day of trekking is around 13 to 14 km. Although the altitude of the day is 8530 feet to 11482 feet. Today’s trek is a steady climb, with an altitude gain of about 900 meters in 5–6 hours. Start from the Forest Rest House and take the trail to the right. Soon, you’ll reach a suspension bridge—cross it and follow the steep path uphill. This trail also leads to Osla village. As you climb, you’ll spot a big waterfall across the valley. You will also see a cemented bridge that offers a great view of the waterfall. Looking ahead, you’ll see stunning views of lush green valleys and snow-covered peaks—Kalanag on the left and Banderpoonch on the right. A few shepherd huts can also be found in this area. Just a reminder that you will have your food accordingly. 

• Breakfast: Halwa or oats, tea, boiled eggs (optional)
• Lunch: Packed – Thepla/paratha, banana, dry fruits
• Dinner: Dal-rice, roti, sabzi, soup
• Snacks: Tea, glucose biscuits

4th day of the Borasu Pass trek is a rest day 

On the 4th day of the trek, you can rest and stay at the campsite or if you want you can explore the day because the earlier day was a long day and due to that you must be not getting enough time to explore the beauty of the destination. So, enjoy the day and recollect your energy for the next day. 

5th day of the trek from Har Ki Dun to Ratta Tho

The distance from Har Ki Dun to Ratta Tho is around 5 to 6 km and the altitude is around 11482 feet to 13451 feet. Today’s trek is relatively easy and short, taking about 3 hours in total. You’ll leave the Har Ki Dun Valley and gradually gain altitude while moving closer to the Borasu Glacier. You can explore Maninda Tal in the trek however, this spot makes a good rest or camp point. Then you can climb to Climb to Ratta-Tho also known as Lal Pathar according to locals. 

• Breakfast: Porridge or poha, toast, tea/coffee
• Lunch: Packed or served at the campsite – rice, chole, salad
• Dinner: Soup, roti, mixed veg, dal, rice
• Snacks: Tea, light fried snacks

6th day of the Borasu Pass trek from Sauni Bhera to Upper Lamjunga. 

The distance of the trekking day is 6-7 km which can take 5-6 hours to cover. The altitude of the day is from 13451 feet to 16,076 feet. Today’s trek is short but steep. Follow the trail through boulders, descending toward the Borasu Glacier stream. The pass and nearby peaks remain in view. Continue on the muddy path with the stream to your right, passing through grassy meadows. Keep following the trail as it gently climbs over a snowfield, then flattens out. After some time, you’ll see a tall, pyramid-shaped boulder, then some wide flat rocks. The trail climbs again—gradually at first, then steeply.

Continue through boulders and a snowy patch with some soft, wet ground. About 10 minutes later, you’ll reach a damp meadow called Saunbhera, named after the rainy season and the shepherds who camp here with their sheep in summer.

• Breakfast: Porridge or poha, toast, tea/coffee
• Lunch: Packed or served at the campsite – rice, chole, salad
• Dinner: Soup, roti, mixed veg, dal, rice
• Snacks: Tea, light fried snacks

On the 7th day, you will Cross the Borasu Pass to Bonga.

It’s a long day with a distance of around 10-12 km which takes 8-9 hours to cover. With altitude of Altitude: 16076 feet to 17224 feet to 14763 feet. Begin walking on a gradual snow slope toward the pass. In 5–10 minutes, you’ll pass between snowy boulders. The trail then alternates between steep climbs and flat snowfields for another 30–45 minutes. It takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to reach the steep ridge below the pass. The final climb is tricky, with loose rocks—use ropes or an ice axe if needed. After 3 hours, you’ll reach Borasu Pass, marked by two stone towers.

On the other side, you’ll see breathtaking views of snow peaks, steep slopes, and the vast Zupica Glacier. The descent starts with a steep glissade (slide) of about 125–150 ft, then eases out. Cross one final stream and snow patch to reach Bonga Campsite, a green meadow with a shepherd shelter. The Bonga Peak rises on the right. 

• Early Breakfast: Oats or porridge, boiled eggs, toast, tea
• Lunch (packed): Paratha, dry fruits, chocolate/energy bars, juice
• Dinner: Hot soup, khichdi or dal-rice, roti, sabzi, dessert (halwa)
• Snacks: High-energy trail mix, glucose, ORS water

8th day of the trek from Bonga to Chitkul 

The distance from Bonga to Chitkul trek is 10–12 km with an altitude of around 4,000 m to 3,450 m.  

It is a Moderate descent trail with a few hurdles on the way. You start from Bonga campsite, a green meadow with a stream and shepherd huts, with Bonga Peak to your right and Borasu Glacier behind. Morning views are stunning, with wildflowers and grazing animals in summer. The stretch from Bonga to Chitkul offers a scenic transition from rugged high-altitude terrain to lush Kinnauri valleys, with peaceful forest walks, the first sight of farmlands and villages after days in the wild, and a warm welcome into Chitkul—where traditional wooden temples, local cuisine, and basic amenities await near the Indo-Tibetan border.

• Breakfast: Poha/upma, tea, eggs or toast
• Lunch: Cooked meal – rice, rajma, salad
• Dinner: Dal, roti, sabzi, seasonal dessert
• Snacks: Tea with biscuits

9th last day of the Borasu Pass Trek is the drive from Chitkul to Shimla 

The total distance to cover the last day is around 10–12 km which takes 4–6 hours to complete. With altitude from 4,000 m to 3,450 m. 

You begin at Bonga campsite. You’ll walk through flower-filled slopes, cross glacial streams, and pass through dense pine and birch forests. Chitkul is a charming wooden village with a mobile network and many guesthouses and Dhabas. This final leg of the Borasu Pass trek leaves you with a deep sense of achievement and a heart full of Himalayan memories.

• Breakfast: At lodge – paratha, curd, tea
• Lunch: On the road – Veg thali/noodles
• Dinner: Not included (on return route)

Itenary for Borasu Pas trek 

The Borasu Pass Trek takes you through changing landscapes over 9 adventurous days—from forests and meadows to glaciers and a high mountain pass. Here’s a simple day-by-day breakdown of the journey: 

Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri 

It’s a drive of 8 to 10 hours to Sankri which is the starting point of Borasu Pass trek. The drive will take you through Uttarkashi district which is very beautiful place so, enjoy the view of Pine Forest and river valley. 

Day 2: Trek from Sankri to Taluka to Seema 

There is a 12 km long drive from Sankri to Taluka and then a 13km long trek from Taluka to Seema. 

Day 3: Seema to Har Ki Dun

Trek 12 km to the majestic Har Ki Dun valley, known for its breathtaking meadows and snow-capped peaks. 

Day 4: Rest Day at Har Ki Dun  

After doing so much trek you must take rest for a day. Because it can be exhausted for the body. You can explore Maninda Tal or Jaundhar Glacier. 

Day 5: Har Ki Dun to Ratta Tho

Explore the day and trek carefully the trail is surrounded by alpine landscapes. 

Day 6: Sauni Bhera to Upper Lamjunga

Reverse moraine fields, boulder zones, and early patches of snow

Day 7: Cross Borasu Pass to Bonga

This is the most challenging day.

Day 8: Bonga to Chitkul 

The last village on the Indo-Tibetan Road in Kinnaur district. 

Day 9: Drive from Chitkul to Shimla 

This is the ending drive of your Borasu Pass trek. 

Frequently asked questions 

Q1. How difficult is the Borasu Pass Trek?

A: It’s a difficult trek, suitable for experienced trekkers. You need to be comfortable walking long distances over several days, crossing snow, boulders, and high-altitude terrain above 5,000 meters. 

Q2. Is there mobile network coverage during the trek?

A: Mobile signal is available in Sankri and may be patchy in Taluka. After that, there is no network coverage, so inform your contacts beforehand. 

Q3. Are there any river crossings or glacier sections?

A: Yes. You’ll cross glacial sections and streams, especially beyond Ruinsara and near the pass. Proper footwear and guidance are essential.

Q4. Is a permit required?

 A: Yes, you’ll need a permit from Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, usually arranged by your trek operator.

Q5. How many days does it take?

 A: Typically, 9 to 10 days, including travel to and from base points.