Kugti Pass Trek – Into the Wild Heart of the Pir Panjal

“Where shepherds seek the gods, and glaciers guard the path.”

📖 Overview

The Kugti Pass Trek is a challenging and rarely explored trail that connects Bharmour in Chamba to Lahaul’s Chenab Valley, crossing the Pir Panjal range at an altitude of 5,090 meters (16,700 feet). Traditionally used by the Gaddi shepherds to migrate with their flocks, this trek is a blend of mythology, alpine wilderness, and cultural isolation. With snowfields, glacial streams, and sacred shrines along the way, it’s a journey for seasoned trekkers seeking solitude and spiritual resonance.

🧭 Trek Profile

Attribute	Details
Trailhead	Kugti village (via Bharmour)
Trek Distance	~60 km (one way)
Altitude Range	2,200 m (Bharmour) to 5,090 m (Kugti Pass)
Trek Duration	7–9 days
Grade	Difficult (requires prior high-altitude experience)
Best Season	Mid-June to early October
Region	Chamba ➝ Kugti ➝ Duggi ➝ Alyas ➝ Kugti Pass ➝ Jobrang (Lahaul)

🥾 Day-wise Itinerary Snapshot

• Day 1: Pathankot ➝ Chamba ➝ Bharmour
• Day 2: Acclimatization hike to Bharmani Mata Temple
• Day 3: Drive to Hadsar, trek to Kugti village (~6 km)
• Day 4: Kugti ➝ Duggi Meadow (~8.5 km)
• Day 5: Duggi ➝ Alyas Base Camp (~9 km)
• Day 6: Alyas ➝ Kugti Pass (5,090 m) ➝ return to Alyas
• Day 7: Alyas ➝ Jobrang, drive to Udaipur (Lahaul)
• Day 8–9: Udaipur ➝ Keylong ➝ Manali or return via Sach Pass

🌄 Trail Highlights

• Kugti Village:
  A traditional Gaddi hamlet with slate-roofed homes, apple orchards, and views of the Budhil River.
• Sacred Shrines:
  • Kartik Temple and Marali Mata Temple en route—worshipped by shepherds before crossing the pass.
  • Rituals include sacrificing sheep to seek divine permission for safe passage.
• Duggi Meadows:
  Expansive alpine grasslands dotted with wildflowers and grazing flocks.
• Alyas (Base Camp):
  A stark, glacial basin surrounded by snowfields—final staging point before the pass.
• Kugti Pass Summit:
  Offers panoramic views of Manimahesh Kailash, Dhauladhar, and Lahaul’s barren ridges.

🧳 Trekking Essentials

Item	Notes
Footwear	High-ankle trekking boots (mandatory)
Clothing	Sub-zero layers, gloves, rain gear
Gear	Trekking poles, crampons (early season), headlamp
Safety	AMS risk above 4,000 m—acclimatize well
Support	Local guide and porter strongly recommended

• Camping:
  No permanent shelters—carry tents and cooking gear.
• Food & Water:
  Stock up in Bharmour; limited supplies in Kugti village.

🛕 Cultural & Mythological Significance

• Gaddi Traditions:
  The Gaddis believe the Kugti Pass is guarded by deities, and no crossing is attempted without offerings at the temples.
• Marali Devi Shrine:
  Located near the pass, adorned with bells, tridents, and prayer flags—a spiritual checkpoint in the sky.
• Sacred Geography:
  The trail is considered a pilgrimage route, not just a trek—respect for local customs is essential.

🧭 How to Reach

• By Road:
  • Pathankot ➝ Chamba ➝ Bharmour (~180 km)
  • Bharmour ➝ Hadsar ➝ Kugti (via shared jeep or private vehicle)
• By Train:
  Nearest railhead: Pathankot
• By Air:
  • Gaggal Airport (Kangra): ~190 km
  • Amritsar or Jammu for broader access

⚠️ Important Notes

• Permit & Registration:
  No formal permit required, but register with local authorities in Bharmour for safety.
• Weather Risks:
  Sudden snowstorms and landslides possible—avoid during monsoon.
• Not for Beginners:
  This trek is physically demanding and logistically remote—ideal for experienced trekkers only.