Complete Guide to Buran Ghati Trek
The Buran Ghati Trek, located in the scenic Himachal Pradesh, is a thrilling crossover trek that takes you through lush meadows, dense forests, charming villages, and a dramatic snow wall descent. It connects the picturesque Pabbar Valley in Shimla district to the high-altitude regions near Kinnaur, making it one of the most diverse and adventurous treks in the Indian Himalayas.
1. Key Details of Buran Ghati Trek
Location: Himachal Pradesh, India
Starting Point: Janglik Village
Trek Duration: 7-8 days
Trek Distance: Approx. 37 km
Maximum Altitude: 4,572 meters (15,000 feet)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
Best Time to Visit:
Summer (May to June): Best time for lush greenery and blooming meadows.
Autumn (September to October): Clear skies with golden landscapes.
2. Highlights of the Buran Ghati Trek
Thrilling Snow Wall Descent: The trek's signature feature includes a steep 400-meter ice wall descent.
Stunning Landscapes: Dense oak and pine forests, open meadows, and alpine lakes.
Charming Villages: Explore the beautiful heritage village of Janglik.
Glacial Lakes: Visit the serene Chandranahan Lake, a cluster of small alpine lakes.
Panoramic Views: Unmatched views of the Dhauladhar and Kinnaur ranges.
Diverse Terrain: From lush valleys to barren mountain landscapes.
3. Buran Ghati Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Shimla to Janglik (9-10 hours, 2,800 meters)
Scenic drive through Rohru and Chirgaon along the Pabbar River.
Acclimatization and overnight stay at Janglik, a traditional Himachali village.
Day 2: Janglik to Dayara Thach (Trek – 6 km, 5-6 hours, 3,350 meters)
Steady ascent through dense forests of pine and oak.
Vast open meadows at Dayara Thach, perfect for camping.
Stay: Campsite at Dayara Thach with stunning sunset views.
Day 3: Dayara Thach to Litham (Trek – 5 km, 4-5 hours, 3,650 meters)
Trek through colorful alpine flowers and rolling grasslands.
Spectacular views of Chandranahan waterfall.
Stay: Campsite at Litham with views of the snow-capped peaks.
Day 4: Litham to Chandranahan Lake & Back (Trek – 8 km, 5-6 hours, 4,100 meters)
Visit Chandranahan Lake, a cluster of small glacial lakes.
Steep ascent with rocky trails leading to the lake.
Return to Litham for overnight camping.
Day 5: Litham to Dhunda (Trek – 4 km, 4-5 hours, 4,100 meters)
Gradual climb to the high-altitude campsite at Dhunda.
Amazing views of the Buran Ghati Pass.
Stay: Campsite at Dhunda with a breathtaking view of snowfields.
Day 6: Dhunda to Buran Ghati Pass to River Camp (Trek – 10 km, 8-9 hours, 4,572 meters)
The most thrilling day with a steep climb to Buran Ghati Pass.
Descend through a 400-meter snow wall using ropes.
Trek further down to the River Camp for overnight stay.
Day 7: River Camp to Barua Village & Drive to Shimla (Trek – 5 km, 4-5 hours, 2,000 meters)
Trek through apple orchards and charming Barua village.
Drive back to Shimla via Kinnaur road.
End of the trek.
4. How to Reach Buran Ghati Trek Base Camp (Janglik)
By Air:
Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla (180 km from Janglik).
Flights available from Delhi and Chandigarh.
By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (connects to Shimla via toy train).
Taxis and buses available to Rohru and then Janglik.
By Road:
Regular buses from Shimla to Rohru, followed by local transport to Janglik.
Private taxis from Shimla directly to Janglik.
5. Difficulty Level & Preparation
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult (requires stamina and endurance).
Challenges:
Long trekking hours with steep ascents and descents.
Snow crossings and rope-assisted descents.
Altitude-related challenges.
Preparation Tips:
Cardiovascular endurance (running, cycling, swimming).
Strength training, especially leg strength and core exercises.
Practice walking with a loaded backpack.
6. Permits & Regulations
Permits: Required for entering forest areas (arranged by trek operators).
Environmental Guidelines: Follow Leave No Trace principles and avoid plastic waste.
7. Packing Essentials
Clothing:
Thermal wear for base layers.
Fleece jackets and insulated outer layers.
Waterproof jackets and windproof pants.
Sturdy trekking shoes with ankle support.
Gloves, beanies, and woolen socks.
Gear:
50L backpack with rain cover.
Trekking poles for snow wall descent.
Sleeping bag (suitable for sub-zero temperatures).
Crampons or microspikes (for snow sections).
Other Essentials:
High SPF sunscreen and lip balm.
First-aid kit with altitude sickness medication.
Water bottles and purification tablets.
Snacks like energy bars and dry fruits.
8. Accommodation & Food
Accommodation:
Guesthouses in Janglik before the trek.
Tented accommodation at all campsites during the trek.
Food:
Nutritious vegetarian meals provided by trek operators.
Carry energy snacks for quick boosts.
9. Safety Tips
Acclimatize properly before ascending to higher altitudes.
Stay hydrated and carry sufficient water.
Follow trek leader instructions for rope descents.
Carry essential medications and avoid overexertion.
10. Alternative Treks Near Buran Ghati
Bali Pass Trek: A challenging trek connecting Har Ki Dun to Yamunotri Valley.
Pin Bhaba Pass Trek: A scenic crossover trek between Spiti and Kinnaur.
Kedarkantha Trek: A shorter winter trek with breathtaking summit views.
Conclusion
The Buran Ghati Trek is a perfect choice for adventure seekers who love a combination of natural beauty, technical challenges, and cultural exploration. Whether you are an experienced trekker or looking for a thrilling Himalayan adventure, this trek promises a lifetime of memories.
