Overview

Itinerary

FAQ's

Inclusion & Exclusion

Gallery

Rupin Pass Trek, Itinerary,Cost,Location,Distance,Height,Best time to Visit in 2025-26.

Rupin Pass Trekking Schedule: Day-wise Breakdown.

Located at the height of 15,250 ft (4,648 m), Rupin Pass Trek is a moderate to difficult journey which begins from Jiskun and ends in Sangla. Rupin Pass is nestled at Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh border. It takes to and fro 7–8 days in total to complete the trek-52 km. The best season to do this trek is between May–June in summers and between Sept–Oct pre-winters.

Rupin Pass is not just a trek, known for its diverse terrain and cinematic scenery; it is a thrilling experience on its own. It tests the trekker’s reliance while offering them spectacular memorable sights — from the snowy climbs over the pass to turquoise blue waterfalls, Rupin Pass Trek is a trek that summons every ounce of stamina.

Here are few more highlights of Rupin Pass Trek:

Ever changing landscapes, traditional villages, high-altitude green-lands, glacial valleys, blue waterfalls, and snow bridges-itinerary that soothes souls
The heart-pounding ascent to Rupin Pass with 360 degree view of Kinnaur Kailash range
Lively cultural touch with a mix of Himachal and Garhwali traditions

Itinerary for Rupin Pass Trek

Day 1: Shimla to Jiskun

Drive distance: 189 km, around 7 to 8 hours | Altitude covered: 7630 ft | Meals included: Dinner | Accommodation: Stay at Jiskun guesthouse
How does you day 1 look?
A non-AC vehicle will be arranged at Shimla. The drive will take up to 8 hours to reach Jiskun (base village from where trek starts). The cloakroom will be provided to put extra luggage which is not required during the trek. Arrive at Jiskun guesthouse by the evening and enjoy warm nutritious dinner followed by a briefing about the upcoming journey and rest in the allotted sharing rooms later. Private rooms can be arranged if notified in advance for extra price.

Day 2. Jiskun to Jakha

Trek Distance: 5 km, around 4 hours |Altitude covered: 8,755 ft |Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, and Dinner
How does you day 2 look?
Start your trek early in the morning after a delicious healthy breakfast with a hot cup of tea. Today, you will see a beautiful hamlet nestled in the lap of Himalayas. The first day is challenging one first day itself you are introduced to an hour’s descent followed by steep ascent of an hour. Reach campsite by afternoon and relish over scrumptious lunch. Take a stroll, click pictures and reminisce first experience of Rupin Pass with fellow friends. Spend a night under starry night and call it a day.

Jakha to Saruwas Thatch

Trek Distance: 8-9 km, around 5-6 hours | Altitude covered: 10,770 ft | Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, and Dinner
How does you day 3 look?
Start your second day by entering the Fir forest that you hardly get to see such magnificent forest in any other trek. This is the highlight of today. Take as many pictures you can for your Instagram post. One the forest line is over, descent into the valley to reach the banks of Rupin River. You rarely get to see dwarf rhododendron trees in any other trek as they are taller. After a moderate trekking day, reach clear meadows of Saruwas Thatch; campsite of the day.

Day 4: Saruwas Thatch to Dhanderas Thatch

Trek distance: 3.5 km, around 2 hours | Altitude covered: 11,700 ft| Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, and Dinner
How does you day 4 look?
The two day moderate climb and steep descent pays off well today as trekkers experience beautiful day by walking through small meadows and flower beds. The trek is easy and short giving your knees some relief. Campsite is pre-arranged at the base of Rupin Waterfall.

Day 5: Dhanderas Thatch to Upper Waterfall Camp

Trek distance: 3 km, around 2-3 hrs| Altitude covered: 13,450 ft| Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, and Dinner
How does you day 5 look?
The Rupin Waterfall is 1,500 ft up from the campsite. Even if you are planning the trek in summer, be prepared to cross the snow bridge to cross the waterfall. In autumn, the trail gets rocky and slippery. Wait for your trek leader to help you cross the bridge. Reach the upper waterfall camp and rest for the night after enjoying over hearty hot meals. Your day will end with a clear briefing by your trek leader as next day you have to start trek at 3:00 AM.

Day 6. Upper Waterfall to Ronti Gad by Rupin Pass

Trek distance: 12 km / 8–9 hrs| Altitude covered: 15,255 ft| Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, and Dinner
How does you day 6 look?
Today is the day when you will achieve what you had dreamed of; reaching the Rupin Pass. Take energy refreshments for the journey to stay energized and water bottle to stay hydrated. Carry nothing else; keep your shoulder bags light. Your target is to reach the Pass by 7 to 8 am. The climb is challenging, steep ascent, and snow-covered rocky bed make the push difficult only to make the ending rewarding. Passing through the Rupin Gully will give you a sense of achievement. Later, the descent to Ronti Gad is going to test your endurance level-both mentally and physically. Reach the campsite by late afternoon and rest.

Day 7. Ronti Gad to Sangla Shimla

Trek distance: 12 km, around 6–7hrs | Meals included: Breakfast, Packed lunch/Refreshments
How does you last day look?
Start trekking from the Ronti Gad to reach Sangla. Your luggage is being arranged by the local support staff which you deposited on your arrival. The additional price for transporting baggage will be added on the first day (only if you opted for it). Drive to Shimla. Usually trek operators arrange forest and camping permits for the Rupin Pass Trek (included in the package). The trail of trek partially falls under Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, making wildlife permission mandatory from the Uttarakhand Forest Department. Carry original government ID proof (Aadhaar, passport, voter ID, etc.) and keep soft/ hard copies ready for checkpoints. Submit attested medical fitness certificate before the trek. In certain instances, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) or Protected Area Permit (PAP/RAP) may be required, mainly around restricted areas. Check with your trekking agency before departure. Booking through a trusted organizer makes the document processing and permit obtaining flow smooth.

Safety and Precautions Checklist for Rupin Pass Trek

Acute mountain sickness can drain your stamina; hence, trek with a slow pace avoid rushing.
Keep sipping small amount of water after every 25 minutes to stay hydrated; avoid alcohol and smoking.
Carry personal medical kit with prescribed medicines and basic first aid items and Diamox.
Weather on mountain make sudden shift, so, pack clothing layers wisely. Carry rain gear to protect yourself from rain.
Wear sturdy, waterproof, ankle-support trekking shoes with strong grip.
Hire a reputed and trusted trek leader and follow their instruction to stay safe on the tail.
Pay attention to the briefing before trek starts, you will be guided for emergency readiness, such as learning exit routes, keeping emergency contacts handy, and if possible, keep travel insurance.
Start fitness journey for Rupin Pass Trek 4 to 6 weeks prior. Begin with cardio, stamina and strength exercises and east fibrous meals.
Be responsible trekkers and respect the local heritage, native people, avoid littering, honor the environment and follow leave no trace protocol.
Even though you have successfully obtained the permit, still] keep valid id (original) along with the permits, medical certificate copy with you in the form of soft copy at all times.

Frequently asked questions

Q1. Where is Rupin Pass located?.

Ans- Rupin Pass is an alpine trek that starts from Shimla in Himachal Pradesh and ends in Sangla.

Q2. What is the altitude of Rupin Pass?

Ans- Rupin pass top is at 15,255 feet/ 4,650 m.

Q3.How long is the trek?

Ans- The trek is 52 km long roundtrip and takes 6 to 7 days to finish.

Q4. What is the best time to do Rupin Pass Trek?

Ans- Both summer season (May–June) and the autumn season (September-October) are the ideal time to witness clear mountains and snowfields.

Q5. What is the difficulty level of this trek?

Ans- With the elevated height of 15,255 feet, steep ascents, and long walks Rupin Pass is graded as moderate to difficult. It is recommended to have a prior trekking experience and good fitness level.

Q6. Do I need a permit for Rupin Pass?

Ans- Yes, forest and wildlife permits are compulsory. Usually, trekking agencies arrange them. You just have to carry valid ID proof and a signed (by a doctor) medical fitness certificate.

Q7. What kind of accommodation is available?

Ans- Accommodation includes guesthouse/homestay at start and end points and tented campsites during the trek.

Q8.What type of food is provided on the trek?

Ans-The local support staff provides nutritious vegetarian meals, like, dal, rice, vegetable dish, chapati, accompanied with soup in the dinner and tea with breakfast). Long duration trek drains you energy fast, hence, carry some dry snacks and energy bars.

Q9.How fit should I be for the Rupin Pass Trek?

Ans- Start your fitness routine atleast 3 to 4 weeks in advance. Jog/walk 5 km daily, use stairs instead of elevators (even better if with loaded backpack).Pre-trek fitness training is will make your Rupin Pass Trek journey smooth.

Q10. Is there mobile network on the trek?

Ans- Once the trek starts, signal gets patchy. Only BSNL works at few points, but expect zero range. It is time to get digital detox-cut off from the toxic world and enjoy being with you.

Q11. What are the major highlights of Rupin Pass Trek?

Ans- Waterfalls, hanging hamlets, snow bridges, lush-green meadows, and the dramatic landscapes are the star attractions.

Q12.Is it safe for solo trekkers?

Ans- Solo is fine, but book a trek where other fellow trekkers will join you under the guidance of trusted trekking agency. In remote areas, it is a smarter choice to go with a group or professional trek leader since the route has remotely high-altitude regions.
The Rupin Pass Trek is a dramatic journey of diversified landscapes, roaring waterfalls, hanging villages, most beautiful forests and rolling lush-green meadows with snow-covered passes. In short], it is a complete high-altitude adventure offering the thrill of reaching at 15,255 ft making it one of the most chased treks in the Himalayas. Demanding yet memorable, Rupin Pass tests your patience while rewarding unparalleled raw beauty at every turn.

During The Trek

At ThinAir Expedition, our treks are carefully designed by a team of highly experienced mountaineers and outdoor leaders, ensuring you experience the adventure of a lifetime while connecting deeply with nature, yourself, and fellow trekkers.

Every trek with us is led by certified and experienced trek leaders who know the mountains inside out — sharing fascinating stories, regional history, and insights into the local flora and fauna. By the end of your trek, you’ll not only have lifelong memories but also a deeper appreciation for the Himalayas.

Inclusion

🚐 Transport Pickup Time: 7:30 AM, Shimla.

From the scheduled pick-up point to the base camp, we arrange transportation in vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dzire, or Tempo Traveller (12-seater). This is shared by trekkers at a pre-decided cost. All vehicles are non-AC for mountain travel safety.

🏡 Accommodation Base Camp Stay: 1-night accommodation in a local homestay or guesthouse, offering a glimpse of authentic Himalayan lifestyle. (Single-sharing available at INR 5,000 extra per person for the entire trek)

On-Trek Stay: Twin-sharing tents (Vango Halo Pro / A-Shape) built to handle extreme weather while keeping you comfortable after a long day’s trek.

⛺ Camping Equipment High-quality sleeping bags rated for sub-zero temperatures.

Foam mattresses for added comfort.

Safety gear including microspikes, gaiters, helmets, and ice axe (where required).

💊 Medical Support Our team carries an extensive medical kit and is trained in high-altitude first aid.

Oxygen cylinders (checked before every trek) are available at campsites and with the team at all times.

🌿 Permissions & FeesAll forest entry permits and camping fees for Indian nationals are included. (Additional charges apply for foreign nationals)

🍽 Meals Nutritious veg meals (with eggs) — Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner.

Jain and vegan meals available on prior request.

Dedicated kitchen tent and dining tent with tables and seating.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Our Team Certified Trek Leader (AMC/BMC/NIM-trained) for safety and smooth execution.

Local Guides with deep knowledge of the trail, culture, and biodiversity.

Support Crew including cook, helpers, porters, and mules for common equipment.

During The Trek

Exclusion

❌ Personal expenses like tips, medicines, and phone calls.

❌ Travel from your hometown to the pick-up point.

❌ Personal trekking gear (jackets, shoes, backpacks, cutlery) — available for rent at affordable rates on prior request.

❌ Backpack offloading (optional) – INR 500 per bag/day (up to 12 kg).

❌ Trek insurance (mandatory) — to be arranged separately.

❌ Buffer day cost (if used) — to be paid directly to the trek leader.

❌ Any items not mentioned in the inclusions list.

Eco-Friendly Trekking Please carry your own lunch box to avoid single-use plastics, aluminium foil, and polythene. At ThinAir Expedition, we are committed to keeping the Himalayas clean. Together, let’s protect the sacred mountains for future generations.