Reasons Why Rupin Pass Should Be Your Next Trek

Every trek has something special, while there is the Rupin Pass trek where every part of the trek is special and beautiful. This counts as one of the best treks in Himachal Pradesh, tucked within the Dhauladhar ranges. Rupin Pass trek is more than just a walk in the mountains, it is a journey through the beautiful remote and lesser known parts of the Himalayas.

If you’ve been looking for the perfect trail for your next adventure, Rupin Pass should definitely be your next one, and here is everything that tells why.

Glimpse into Rupin Pass Trek

Rupin Pass is a moderate to difficult grade trek, spanning up to 7 days. The trek begins with a scenic drive from Shimla to Bawta. Trekkers spend the night in Bawta village, and the trekking begins the next day from here. The initial days are gradual trekking, taking you from one village to another. You get to live in these offbeat villages for a while, and know about their village cultures.

Once you leave the villages behind, the views are just otherworldly, and the next campsite Dandreyash Thatch is definitely the most scenic one, you get an amazing view of the three tiered waterfall which you will be climbing on the upcoming days. Further you trek to the top of the waterfall, trekking besides it is another highlight of this trek. Before finally ending the trek, you cross the Rupin Pass, which is at an altitude of 15,350 ft.

This is just the brief of the Rupin Pass trek and everything which makes it a must do trek is listed below.

Why Rupin Pass?

The mix of landscapes

While most of the treks have a theme, Rupin Pass manages to have chapters which unfold slowly throughout the trek. It lets you trek through diverse and dramatic landscapes, transitioning from lush forests and meadows to rocky terrain and snowfields as you ascend. You would pass through pine and oak forests, cascading waterfalls, and the high altitude Rupin Pass, mostly covered in snow. The trek also includes walking through the remote villages like Jakha and Sangla.

Waterfall that steals your heart

Every trekker who has previously done the Rupin Pass trek talks about the Rupin waterfall. And for good reasons. Midway through your trek, you come across this stunning waterfall. It cascades down from the sky in three distinct tiers, roaring with energy, spraying your face with icy droplets, and filling the air with a powerful sound.

You get the best view of the waterfall from the most scenic campsite of the trek, Dandreyash Thatch. It is a vast open meadow expanse, surrounded by towering peaks, and with a closer view of the Rupin waterfall. This area remains covered with colorful wildflowers, adding to the beauty. Camping here is straight out of some dream, you unzip your tent in the morning and there it is, towering above you, clouds hanging low as if they’ve stopped to admire the view too.

Floral beauty

Rupin Pass treats you to meadows overflowing with wildflowers of yellow, purple, white, and pink and many more colors. If you trek around the spring months, you pass through a really magical stretch, filled with blooming rhododendrons in shades of red and pink. Even the fallen petals enhance the beauty of the path. Though this section is brief, it creates a beautiful contrast against the lush green surroundings. It’s impossible to walk without stopping to crouch down, touch the delicate petals, and take in their faint, sweet scent.

Hanging Village of Jakha

During your journey you pass through remote mountain villages including the Jakha Village, which is a serene mountain village and also known by the name of Hanging village. It is known as the “Hanging Village” due to its steeply built houses that appear stacked on top of one another. This small Himalayan settlement is the last inhabited village before entering the wild terrain of the trek.

Rupin Pass- The final push

On day 6 of your Rupin Pass trek, when you have covered most of the journey, you finally climb up to the Rupin pass. Crossing the Rupin Pass at an impressive elevation of 4,700m is a rewarding experience. The narrow Rupin Gully, with its snow-covered path, adds an element of adventure. Once at the top, the view of the surrounding Himalayan peaks makes all the effort worthwhile. You get an amazing view of the Kinner Kailash range.

Sangla valley

The Rupin Pass trek ends with a descent into the beautiful Sangla valley. While most of the treks begin and end at the same location, Rupin Pass lets you explore more, and begin from Bawta and end in Sangla. Sangla is known for its apple orchards and also known as Baspa valley because of the Baspa river which flows through it. The surroundings are lush green and vibrant with few houses around. Sangla also has small market areas, where you can buy handwoven shawls, caps, mufflers and socks as souvenirs.

A Photographer’s Paradise

If you love photography, Rupin Pass is like being dropped inside a living postcard. The dramatic landscapes and the cultural richness of villages, and the wildlife (if you’re lucky, you might spot Himalayan blue sheep) all make for an endless series of frames. Even if you’re not a professional photographer, you’ll find yourself pausing every few minutes to take “just one more picture.” And yes, every single one will feel worth it.

The Thrill of High Altitude

Rupin Pass trek takes you to an altitude of 15,350 ft. Being at this high altitude is a challenging and thrilling experience. The final climb to the pass is a steep, exhilarating ascent on snow, where each crunch under your boots brings you closer to the top. Your breath comes heavy, your heart pounds, and then you crest the ridge.

In that moment, the world opens up. You see peaks stretching far into the horizon, valleys dropping away on both sides, and a cold wind rushing past your face as if to welcome you to its realm. It’s not just the view that makes you smile, but the feeling of being there after facing a set of challenges.

The Rupin Pass trek is perfect for every trekking enthusiast who wants to skip the usual trails and explore the much quiet and beautiful side of the Himalayas while also facing the challenges If you are also among them, do book the Rupin Pass trek and explore the best of Himachal treks.

Here are a few FAQ’s to help you plan better.

FAQ’ s

How difficult is the Rupin Pass Trek?

Rupin Pass Trek is considered as a moderate to difficult grade trek.

What is the best time for the Rupin Pass Trek?

The best time to do the Rupin Pass Trek is during the months of May, June, September and October.

Is prior experience required to do the Rupin Pass Trek?

First-timers are welcome, though prior trekking experience is preferred. Good fitness is a must.

How many days are required for the Rupin pass Trek?

To do the Rupin Pass trek, you require 7 days, from Shimla to Shimla. It is advised to keep extra buffer days for your travel convenience.

What is the Rupin Pass trek distance?

The trekking distance during the Rupin Pass trek is around 41 kilometers.

Where does the Rupin Pass trek begin from?

Rupin Pass Trek begins from the serene village of Bawta.

What is the Rupin Pass trek itinerary?

The Rupin Pass trek Itinerary is as follows:
Day-1: Shimla to Bawta
Day-2: Bawta to Jakha
Day-3: Jakha to Dandreyash Thatch
Day-4: Rest and Acclimatization Day at Dandreyash Thatch
Day-5: Dandreyash Thatch to Upper Waterfall
Day-6: Upper Waterfall to Ronti Gad via Rupin Pass
Day-7: Ronti Gad to Sangla & Drive to Shimla