Embark on an unforgettable journey with Danu Adventure through one of the most exhilarating high-altitude treks in the Indian Himalayas, the Borasu Pass Trek. Starting from the lush valleys of Uttarakhand and traversing into the pristine landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, this trek offers a rare blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural immersion.
Standing at an altitude of 5,450 meters, Borasu Pass serves as a natural link between the Har Ki Dun Valley and Kinnaur Valley, revealing majestic views of towering peaks, vast glaciers, and alpine meadows. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a seasoned mountaineer, this trek promises a challenge worth every effort. From ancient villages and dense forests to snow-clad trails, the terrain is as diverse as it is stunning.
This trail is ideal for those looking for an offbeat, adrenaline-pumping experience. Explore untouched regions, witness rare Himalayan wildlife, and walk through ancient trade routes used by shepherds for centuries. The Borasu Pass Expedition is not just a trek, but an immersive adventure that showcases the best of Uttarakhand and Himachal’s rugged beauty.
With Danu Adventure’s expert guides, well-planned itineraries, and top-notch safety measures, you are in for a trekking experience like no other.
Borasu Pass Trek
The Borasu Pass Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through one of the most stunning and remote regions of the Indian Himalayas. Dividing the states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, this high-altitude trek connects the lush Tons Valley with the scenic Baspa Valley. With its challenging terrain and breathtaking views of towering peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak, the Borasu Pass trek promises an exciting yet difficult journey, ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking to explore untouched Himalayan beauty.
Trek Overview:
- Altitude: 5,450 meters (17,880 feet)
- Trek Duration: 8 days
- Trek Distance: Approximately 64 km on foot
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
- Starting Point: Sankri, Uttarakhand
- End Point: Chitkul, Himachal Pradesh
Borasu Pass Trek Cost:
The cost for the Borasu Pass trek typically ranges from INR 22,000 to INR 30,000 per person, depending on the trekking operator, group size, and inclusions. This price generally covers:
- Accommodation in tents or guesthouses
- Meals during the trek
- Trekking permits and entry fees for Govind National Park
- Guide and support staff
- Basic medical assistance
- Camping equipment and supplies
Borasu Pass Trek Difficulty:
This trek is rated as difficult due to the high altitude, challenging terrain, and the long distances between camps. With an altitude of 5,450 meters at the pass, trekkers must be well-acclimatized to avoid altitude sickness. The trail involves steep climbs, glacier crossings, and navigating rocky and snow-covered landscapes, making it suitable only for experienced trekkers with prior high-altitude trekking experience.
Borasu Pass Trek Short Itinerary
- Day 01 :Drive from Dehradun to Sankri
- Day 02 :Sankri to Seema via Taluka
- Day 03 :Seema/Osla to Har ki Dun
- Day 04 :Har ki Dun to Ratha Tho
- Day 05 :Ratha Tho to Borasu Pass Base Camp (Upper Lamjung)
- Day 06 :Borasu Pass Base Camp to Bonga via Borasu Pass
- Day 07 :Bonga to Chitkul
Borasu Pass Temperature:
The temperature during the trek varies significantly based on the season:
- May to June: Daytime temperatures range between 12°C to 20°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to -2°C to -5°C.
- September to October: During this post-monsoon season, daytime temperatures hover around 10°C to 15°C, and nights can be freezing, reaching -5°C to -10°C.
Key Tips for Borasu Pass Trek:
- Physical Fitness: This trek requires excellent fitness levels and prior trekking experience. Prepare for steep climbs, glacier crossings, and long trekking days.
- Proper Gear: Pack for cold weather, including sturdy trekking boots, insulated jackets, and gloves. Bring technical equipment for glacier trekking (crampons, gaiters, etc.).
- Acclimatization: Make sure to spend enough time at intermediate altitudes to avoid altitude sickness.
Terrain Elevation and Trek Profile
The Borasu Pass Trek is a high-altitude adventure that takes you to an elevation of 5,450 meters (17,880 feet), making it a thrilling challenge for seasoned trekkers. This trek begins in the Tons Valley of Uttarakhand and ascends steeply, crossing alpine meadows, dense forests, and glacial moraines before reaching the pass that divides Uttarakhand from Himachal Pradesh. The trail descends into the Baspa Valley in Himachal, offering contrasting landscapes of lush greenery and rugged mountainous terrain. Covering a distance of 60 to 70 kilometers, the trek presents a variety of challenging terrains, including narrow ridges, steep ascents, snow-covered passes, and rocky moraines.
Trekking Difficulties and Challenges
The Borasu Pass Trek is classified as a difficult trek, suitable for experienced trekkers with prior high-altitude trekking experience. The high elevation, long walking distances, and steep ascents make this trek physically demanding. You will encounter multiple challenges, such as trekking through snowfields, glaciers, and rocky terrains. The path can be treacherous due to the presence of crevasses, and crossing the pass often requires technical skills like rope work. High-altitude acclimatization is crucial as the risk of altitude sickness increases at over 5,000 meters. The isolation of the region also means limited resources, so trekkers must be self-sufficient, well-prepared, and in excellent physical condition.
What to Expect During Borasu Pass Trek
Expect a diverse trekking experience during the Borasu Pass trek. The journey begins with picturesque villages, offering a glimpse into the local Himalayan culture. As you ascend, the landscape shifts dramatically from dense forests of pine, rhododendron, and oak to expansive alpine meadows filled with wildflowers. Higher up, the trail becomes more rugged with rocky paths, snowfields, and glacier crossings. Along the way, you’ll pass through remote Himalayan villages like Osla and Seema, ancient mountain settlements that retain their unique cultural heritage. The highlight of the trek is reaching the Borasu Pass itself, where you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of towering peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kala Nag (Black Peak). After crossing the pass, the descent into the scenic Baspa Valley is equally rewarding with its charming rivers and vibrant greenery.
Weather and Temperature on Borasu Pass Trek
The Borasu Pass Trek is best done in May to June and September to October, when the weather is more stable and conducive for trekking.
- Summer (May to June): During the pre-monsoon season, temperatures during the day can range from 10°C to 15°C, while nights can drop to 0°C to -5°C. The snow begins to melt, revealing lush green meadows and making it the perfect time to witness blooming wildflowers.
- Autumn (September to October): This post-monsoon period offers clear skies and relatively mild weather. Daytime temperatures are around 10°C to 15°C, with nighttime temperatures dropping to as low as -5°C to -10°C at higher altitudes. Snowfall may begin towards the end of October, and the trail becomes icy and more challenging.
Trekkers must be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially at high altitudes, where it can snow even in summer. Carrying appropriate gear for sub-zero temperatures, including layers, thermal wear, and waterproof clothing, is essential for a safe and comfortable journey.
Cultural Experience on Borasu Pass Trek
The Borasu Pass Trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich culture of the remote Himalayan villages. The trek passes through traditional villages like Osla, Seema, and Taluka, where the local Garhwali and Kinnauri communities reside. The villagers live a simple, pastoral life, and their traditional homes, made of wood and stone, are a testament to ancient mountain architecture. You can interact with the locals and learn about their unique way of life, which revolves around agriculture, animal husbandry, and traditional crafts.
The village of Osla is particularly known for its ancient Someshwar Devta Temple, a wooden marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva. These villages have preserved their customs, traditions, and festivals, providing trekkers with an authentic cultural experience amidst the grandeur of the Himalayas.
Wildlife, Flora, and Fauna
The Borasu Pass Trek traverses through the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, a protected area that is rich in biodiversity. This region is home to a variety of wildlife, including the rare Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, musk deer, barasingha (swamp deer), Himalayan ibex, and blue sheep. Trekkers may also spot smaller animals like marmots, foxes, and different species of monkeys. The area is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with sightings of Himalayan Monal, griffon vultures, and various species of pheasants and eagles.
The trek showcases a wide variety of flora, starting with dense forests of deodar, pine, oak, and rhododendron at lower altitudes. As you ascend, these forests give way to expansive alpine meadows that burst with colorful wildflowers during the summer months. The region is also known for the Bhojpatra (Himalayan birch) trees, whose bark was used in ancient times as writing paper. Above the tree line, the landscape turns into a stark, rugged terrain dominated by glaciers and snowfields, offering a stunning contrast to the lush green valleys below.
Conclusion:
The Borasu Pass Trek is an adventurous and rewarding journey, perfect for seasoned trekkers looking for a challenge. With its varied landscapes, from ancient Himalayan villages to alpine meadows and glaciers, the trek offers an extraordinary glimpse into the remote beauty of the Indian Himalayas. Whether you’re seeking awe-inspiring mountain vistas, cultural encounters, or a challenging high-altitude experience, Borasu Pass delivers it all.
Borasu Pass Trek Highlights:
- Scenic Alpine Meadows & Forests: Trek through verdant pine forests, expansive meadows dotted with wildflowers, and rhododendron groves. The trail passes through the renowned Har Ki Dun Valley, which boasts rich biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
- Challenging Terrain: The Borasu Pass trek offers a thrilling mix of terrains—steep ridges, moraines, glaciers, and snow-covered sections. The high-altitude pass itself tests the physical and mental endurance of trekkers, making it perfect for those with previous trekking experience in the Himalayas.
- Remote Villages & Rich Culture: The trek takes you through traditional villages like Osla and Seema, where you can experience the local Himalayan lifestyle, architecture, and culture. These remote settlements are some of the last human habitations before reaching the Tibetan Plateau.
- Marinda Tal: A glacial lake that adds to the charm of the journey, offering a serene stop before the demanding climb to Borasu Pass.
- Spectacular Peaks: On this trek, you will witness stunning views of Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, and Black Peak. The vantage from Borasu Pass reveals a panoramic view of the majestic Har Ki Dun Valley as well as the distant Baspa Valley.
