Kugti Pass Trek

Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary – The Untamed Heart of Himachal

Welcome to Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary - Himachal Pradesh’s second-largest sanctuary, tucked away in the high-altitude folds of the Pir Panjal range, where ancient trails meet alpine wilderness and legends echo through cedar-scented forests.

A Hidden Himalayan Haven

Spread over 378 sq. km, this offbeat sanctuary in Chamba district is a true gem for trekkers, wildlife lovers, and spiritual seekers. With elevations ranging from 2195 m to over 5000 m, it offers a breathtaking range of ecosystems, from deodar and oak forests to snowbound meadows, glacial valleys, and sacred lakes.

🐾 Wildlife You Might Actually Spot

This remote wilderness is home to rare and elusive species found only in high-altitude Himalayan regions:

• 🐻 Himalayan Black Bear – Majestic yet shy, often spotted foraging along forest trails.

• 🐆 Snow Leopard – The elusive ghost of the Himalayas roams silently in the upper reaches.

• 🦌 Musk Deer – An endangered beauty with long canines and a musk gland, hiding in alpine groves.

• 🐐 Bharal (Blue Sheep) – Expert cliff climbers, often seen in herds across steep rocky slopes.

• 🐏 Himalayan Tahr & Goral – Agile mountain goats that rule the ridgelines.

• 🐿️ Himalayan Marmot – Whistle-blowing, burrow-dwelling creatures of the high meadows.

• 🦅 Golden Eagle & Himalayan Monal – Soaring high or flashing rainbow hues through pine forests.

🧭 Off-the-Grid Exploration

Unlike crowded national parks, Kugti offers pure solitude. You'll walk ancient shepherd routes used by the Gaddi nomads, pass through sacred Kartik and Kugti temples, and traverse untamed high-altitude terrain where few dare to tread.

🛕 Where Spirituality Meets Wilderness

Inside the sanctuary lies the revered Kartik Swami Temple, where locals worship Lord Kartikeya. Trekking to this site is not just a physical journey but a deeply spiritual one. Every turn on the trail is infused with mythology and raw natural beauty.

Day 1: Arrival at Bharmour (2195 m)

• Arrive at Bharmour, a quaint town nestled in the Budhil Valley of Chamba.
• Spend the day exploring the ancient Chaurasi Temple Complex, a 7th-century heritage site with 84 shrines, and the Bhairav Temple, the presiding deity of the Kugti region.
• Attend the traditional evening aarti and prepare for the trek.
• Reach Kugti village (2600 m), a remote tribal settlement of the Gaddi shepherding community, known for its traditional slate-roof houses and temple architecture.
• Overnight stay in a guesthouse or homestay in Kugti.

Day 2: Kugti to Kartik Temple (6 km, 4 hours)

• Start with a moderate ascent through dense oak and cedar forests.
• The trail meanders along the Budhil River, with glimpses of Hanuman Tibba and surrounding peaks.
• Pass a small shepherd encampment and wooden bridges.
• After a steep climb, arrive at Kartik Temple (3100 m), dedicated to Kartikeya, son of Lord Shiva, revered by the Gaddi community.
• The temple offers stunning views of Kugti Pass (5040 m) in the distance.

After Lunch - Kartik Temple to Duggi (5 km, 3 hours)

• The trail continues through high-altitude meadows and boulder fields.
• Cross the tree line and follow the Budhil Nala upstream.
• Encounter alpine pastures, home to Himalayan marmots and migratory birds.
• Reach Duggi (3550 m), a vast open meadow surrounded by snow-capped peaks, frequently used as a base camp for Kugti and Chobu Pass treks.
• Set up camp near the shepherd encampments.
• Overnight in tents.

Day 3: Duggi to Alyas Base Camp (Kugti Base) (6 km, 4–5 hours)

• Trek through glacial moraines, scree slopes, and high-altitude terrain.
• The trail gradually ascends towards Alyas, the base camp for Kugti Pass (5040 m).
• Surrounded by towering peaks, the campsite lies at approximately 4100 m.
• Acclimatize and rest for the night.
• Weather conditions may determine the feasibility of crossing the pass.
• Overnight in tents.

Day 4: Attempt Kugti Pass (5040 m)

• Based on weather and conditions, an early morning attempt can be made to cross Kugti Pass, which leads into Lahaul Valley.
• Alternatively, use the day to explore surrounding glaciers and alpine ridges.
• Return to Duggi by late afternoon or if time allows then will head to Kartik Swami Mandir.
• Overnight in tents.

Day 5: Duggi to Kugti – Drive to Bharmour

• Descend back through the same route via Kartik Temple and Kugti Village.
• Rest and refresh at a guesthouse or homestay.
• Then drive to Dalhousie.
• Left for desired destinations.

• Trekking shoes, warm clothing (including thermals)
• Rain jacket/windcheater
• Headlamp, reusable water bottle, trail snacks
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, power bank