Uttarakhand, known as the ‘Land of Gods,’ is a paradise for trekkers, offering countless trails through the mighty Himalayas. While many popular treks like Kedarkantha, Har Ki Dun, and Roopkund attract adventurers, there are still several hidden gems waiting to be explored. One such unexplored trek in Uttarakhand is the Unta Dhura Pass trek, a high-altitude pass standing at 17,400 feet in the Pithoragarh district. This challenging yet mesmerizing route remains one of the best unexplored treks in Uttarakhand, offering breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks and an experience unlike any other.
History and Importance of Unta Dhura Pass
Unta Dhura, also known as Anta Dhura Pass, has been historically significant as a trade route between Kumaon (Uttarakhand) and Tibet. It was frequently used by Bhotiya traders who traveled from Milam Village in the Johar Valley to Tibet. The pass gets its name from its resemblance to the back of a camel, and in Tibet, it is referred to as Kyunam La.
The trail to Unta Dhura Pass takes trekkers through high-altitude meadows, glaciers, and steep ascents. Historically, explorers like Lieutenant Hugh Rose (1931), Longstaff and his crew (1907), W.H. Murray (1950), and A.D. Modi with Gurdial Singh (1959) have crossed this pass, marking its significance in mountaineering history.
Route Overview and Trek Itinerary
This difficult trek in Uttarakhand is currently not open for general trekking, as permissions are required from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). The journey begins in Munsiyari (7,200 ft) in Pithoragarh and ends at Malari Village (9,000 ft) in Chamoli, taking around 12-13 days to complete.
Trek Route:
- Munsiyari (7,200 ft) to Milam Village (11,200 ft) – The trail follows the Milam Glacier trek, passing through villages like Lilam, Bogudiyar, Rilkot, and Martoli.
- Milam Village to Unta Dhura Base Camp (15,500 ft) – A challenging ascent through glacial moraines and rocky ridges.
- Unta Dhura Base Camp to Unta Dhura Pass (17,400 ft) – Steep climbs with panoramic views of the Himalayas, followed by a descent towards Topidhunga.
- Topidhunga to Malari Village (9,000 ft) – The trek winds through remote valleys before reaching Malari.
Key Highlights of the Unta Dhura Pass Trek
- Glacier Exploration: The route passes through the Untadhura Pass Glacier, a pristine and untouched high-altitude glacier.
- Himalayan Peaks: Stunning views of Nanda Devi (25,643 ft), Nanda Kot (22,510 ft), Trishuli 1 (23,380 ft), Kalanka (22,580 ft), Barmatia, Dronagiri, and Nanda Pal.
- Less Traveled Places in Uttarakhand: Unlike the popular treks, Unta Dhura remains one of the least explored Himalayan passes, making it ideal for seasoned trekkers looking for solitude and adventure.
- Rich Cultural Experience: Trekkers pass through remote villages like Milam and Martoli, experiencing the lifestyle of local communities.
Terrain and Difficulty Level
The Unta Dhura trek is among the top 10 hard treks in Uttarakhand, characterized by:
- Steep Ascents & Descents: The trek involves multiple steep inclines and sharp descents, testing the endurance and strength of trekkers.
- Glacier Crossings: Large sections of the trek pass through moraines and glacier fields, making navigation and footing challenging.
- Harsh Weather Conditions: The pass experiences sudden weather changes, including snowfall, high winds, and sub-zero temperatures.
- Remote & Isolated Trail: With minimal human settlements after Milam, trekkers must be self-sufficient and well-prepared for emergencies.
- Altitude Challenges: At 17,400 feet, altitude sickness can be a major concern, requiring proper acclimatization.
Cultural Immersion & Local Insights
- Bhotiya Traditions: The Bhotiya community, known for their Himalayan trade practices, once used this pass for commerce. Their rich traditions and lifestyle can still be seen in villages like Milam and Martoli.
- Local Festivals & Fairs: Villages along the route, especially in Bageshwar and Jauljibi, host traditional fairs during Makar Sankranti, where locals trade goods and celebrate their heritage.
- Architectural Marvels: Ancient stone houses and temples in the Johar Valley offer glimpses of Kumaoni heritage and history.
Why This Expedition is Worth It
- A Rare Connection Between Kumaon and Garhwal: Unta Dhura Pass is the only high-altitude Himalayan pass connecting the Kumaon and Garhwal regions, making it a significant geographical and historical route.
- Breathtaking and Untouched Beauty: Unlike popular treks, this route remains pristine and untouched by commercial trekking, offering unparalleled solitude and serenity.
- Spectacular Himalayan Views: The trek provides panoramic vistas of towering Himalayan peaks, making it a paradise for mountaineers and photographers.
- A Challenge for True Adventurers: With its steep ascents, high-altitude glacier crossings, and remote landscapes, this trek is an ultimate test for experienced trekkers seeking adventure beyond the ordinary.
- Preserved Flora and Fauna: Due to its remoteness, the trail passes through unspoiled Himalayan ecosystems, with chances to spot rare wildlife such as blue sheep, Himalayan monal, and snow leopards.
- Seeking the Permit is Worth It: Though it requires special permissions from ITBP and forest authorities, obtaining the permit opens the doors to a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit:
- May to June – The snow cover is minimal, and the weather is favorable.
- October – Clear post-monsoon skies offer spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks.
Permit and Trekking Regulations
Since this pass is close to the Indo-Tibetan border, trekking is not permissible without special permission. Trekkers must obtain permits from ITBP and local forest officials, and approval depends on weather conditions and individual fitness levels.
Conclusion
The Unta Dhura Pass trek is a dream expedition for seasoned trekkers looking to explore less-traveled places in Uttarakhand. With its high-altitude glaciers, majestic Himalayan views, and historical significance, it ranks among the best unexplored treks in Uttarakhand. If trekking permits become available in the future, this could be one of the most sought-after trekking expeditions in Uttarakhand.
For those seeking a challenging and unique Himalayan adventure, Unta Dhura Pass is undoubtedly a hidden treasure worth exploring.
