Buran Ghati Trek: An Uncharted Himalayan Expedition for the Brave-Hearted

Author: Neetu Wadhwa

The Indian Himalayas are full of breathtaking trails, but few treks manage to deliver the kind of diversity, thrill, and raw wilderness that the Buran Ghati Trek with Pahadi Treks does. Hidden away in the Rohru region of Himachal Pradesh, this trail is often overshadowed by popular routes like Hampta Pass or Kedarkantha. However, those who venture here are rewarded with snow-covered mountain passes, ancient villages, alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and an epic adventure unlike any other.

This blog will take you through the essence of the Buran Ghati Trek — its scenic richness, challenges, cultural highlights, and why it deserves to be known as one of the most versatile treks in India.

Where is Buran Ghati Trek?

Buran Ghati (also known as Burando Pass) lies in the Pabbar Valley of Himachal Pradesh, in the Shimla district. The trek begins at the traditional village of Janglik and ends at Barua village in Kinnaur, tracing a diverse landscape that transitions from dense forests to stark snow-covered passes.

Key Highlights of the Trek

  • Pass Altitude: ~15,000 feet (4,572 meters)

  • Trek Duration: 7–8 days

  • Trek Gradient: Moderate to Difficult

  • Distance: 37–40 km (approx.)

  • Best Seasons: May–June and September–October

Why Choose the Buran Ghati Trek?

  1. Stunning Pass Crossing: Buran Ghati Pass offers a jaw-dropping snow wall descent using ropes (especially during early summer).

  2. Scenic Variety: Dense oak and pine forests, expansive meadows, river crossings, and high-altitude snowfields—all in one trek.

  3. Cultural Insight: Villages like Janglik and Barua showcase authentic Himachali architecture and lifestyle.

  4. Solitude: Unlike commercial trails, this trek remains relatively uncrowded, offering peace and raw wilderness.

Detailed Trek Itinerary Day 1: Shimla to Janglik (9,200 ft)

  • 8-hour drive through scenic valleys, apple orchards, and remote villages.

  • Overnight stay in Janglik, a heritage village known for its old wooden houses.

Day 2: Janglik to Dayara Thatch (11,100 ft)

  • The trail begins with thick pine and oak forests before emerging into lush alpine meadows.

  • Dayara Thatch is a grassy expanse perfect for acclimatization.

Day 3: Dayara Thatch to Litham (11,800 ft)

  • Walk through undulating green terrain and shepherd huts.

  • Camp at Litham near a confluence of streams, with snow-capped peaks as your backdrop.

Day 4: Litham to Chandernahan Lake (13,800 ft) and back

  • A challenging day trek to the glacial Chandernahan Lake, considered sacred by locals.

  • Return to Litham for overnight stay.

Day 5: Litham to Dhunda (13,300 ft)

  • The trail climbs steeply into the alpine zone.

  • Dhunda offers the first direct view of Buran Ghati Pass—an impressive wall of snow and rock.

Day 6: Dhunda to River Camp via Buran Ghati Pass (15,000 ft)

  • The toughest and most thrilling day. Early start to cross the pass.

  • Rope-assisted descent (snow slide possible in May/June).

  • Reach the River Camp for a well-earned rest.

Day 7: River Camp to Barua Village and Drive to Shimla

  • Final descent through forests and orchards.

  • Drive back to Shimla from Barua village.

Best Time to Trek SeasonHighlightsMay–JuneSnow-covered trails, rope descent, frozen lakes, cooler weatherSeptember–OctoberClear skies, fall foliage, dry trails, less snow

Avoid monsoon months (July–August) due to landslides and unstable trail conditions.

Weather Overview

  • May–June: Day 10–15°C | Night 0–5°C

  • Sept–Oct: Day 8–12°C | Night -2–3°C

Expect sudden changes in weather. Snowfall and rain are possible at high altitudes even during summer.

Physical Preparation Tips

While the Buran Ghati trek is not highly technical, it requires good stamina and mental resilience. Prepare with:

  • Cardio workouts like jogging, cycling, or stair climbing (at least 30–45 minutes daily).

  • Strength training focused on legs, core, and shoulders.

  • Practice hikes with a loaded backpack if possible.

Packing Checklist

  • Waterproof trekking boots

  • 3-layer clothing (base thermal, fleece, outer waterproof)

  • Windcheater or down jacket

  • Gloves, woolen cap, thermal socks

  • UV sunglasses and sunscreen

  • Trekking pole and backpack with rain cover

  • Sleeping bag (if not provided by trek operator)

  • Headlamp, water bottle, and personal medical kit

Things to Remember

  • Trek in groups or with a registered trekking agency.

  • Acclimatize properly. Avoid rushing through the initial days.

  • Respect the environment. Carry your waste back, and don’t pollute streams or lakes.

  • Obey local guidelines. Some areas and lakes like Chandernahan are considered sacred.

  • Avoid stepping on flowers or grazing areas used by shepherds.

The Magic of the Trail

Buran Ghati’s beauty lies in its constantly changing landscape:

  • Walk through fairy-tale forests filled with chirping birds.

  • Camp on alpine meadows with a 360° view of the surrounding peaks.

  • Cross roaring rivers on log bridges.

  • Climb steep ice walls and descend on snow slides.

  • Visit ancient Himachali homes and exchange smiles with locals.

This is not just a trek; it's a journey through nature’s unfiltered canvas and an inner adventure of self-discovery.

Conclusion

The Buran Ghati Trek with Pahadi Treks is one of the most complete and visually dramatic Himalayan treks in India. It offers the challenge of a snow pass, the calm of high-altitude lakes, the charm of mountain villages, and the serenity of untouched meadows.

If you're looking to go beyond the ordinary and experience the Himalayas at their purest, Buran Ghati should be your next trek.