KE Adventure

Trekking the Curzon's Trail and the Kuari Pass

Two weeks of classic Garhwal trekking in the India Himalaya
Trek in the footsteps of Shipton and Tilman
Spectacular views of Nanda Devi
Explore Rishikesh and the sacred River Ganges
Extensions available to the Taj Mahal and Agra

Following a route trekked by Lord Curzon in 1905 and by Shipton and Tilman 30 years later, this excellent adventure trekking holiday traverses the western edge of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. After just a couple of days, we reach the high meadow of Bedni Bugyal, a famously scenic location with a skyline dominated to the north-west by the peaks of Trisul (7120m) and Nanda Ghunti. A further week of superb foothills trekking takes us through forest and farmland and by way of a series of ridges, the last of which we cross at the Kuari Pass (3650m). Changabang, Kamet and Nanda Devi are just 3 of the India Himalayan giants visible from this sublime viewpoint. En route back to Delhi, we have time to experience the magic of Rishikesh and Haridwar and to attend the 'arti' (floating lamp) ceremony on the Ganges. This is a great trek and an unforgettable journey into the mystical Hindu territory of Garhwal.

Trip Guide

This is a very scenic 10-day trek, in an area of the India Himalaya seldom visited by other trekkers. Generally the trek route follows ancient trade routes and pilgrimage trails that offer very good walking conditions. The usual day's walk will be around 5 to 6 hours - although there are a couple of longer days where we are likely to be walking for at least 8 or 9 hours. Whilst there are several ridges and passes to cross during the trek, and some steep ascent and descent we have graded the trip as MODERATE. Note that the highest campsite is actually close to the start of the trip. The altitude attained on the holiday is relatively modest and should cause few problems. Overall this is an excellent walking holiday, both for experienced trekkers seeking a relatively untouched corner of the Himalaya and for novices looking for an introduction to Himalayan trekking.