BURAN GHATI TREK: A THRILLING HIMALAYAN CROSSOVER FROM JANGLIK TO BARUA

Buran Ghati Trek: A Thrilling Himalayan Crossover from Janglik to Barua

Buran Ghati Trek: A Thrilling Himalayan Crossover from Janglik to Barua

Blog Article


The Buran Ghati Trek is one of the most thrilling and scenic high-altitude treks in Himachal Pradesh, India. Perfectly blending adventure, breathtaking beauty, and diverse landscapes, this crossover trail takes trekkers from the charming village of Janglik in the Pabbar Valley to the remote village of Barua in Kinnaur.


If you're looking for a trek that has forests, meadows, snow walls, alpine lakes, and a high-altitude pass — the Buran Ghati Trek checks every box.

 What is the Buran Ghati Trek?


The Buran Ghati Trek (also called Burando Pass Trek) is a high-altitude trek in Himachal Pradesh that ascends to the Buran Ghati Pass at 15,000 feet (4,572 meters). This trek connects two culturally rich valleys — Pabbar Valley (Shimla side) and Baspa/Kinnaur Valley.

It's often described as a “complete Himalayan trek” because of its varied terrain — dense pine forests, ancient villages, glacial lakes, meadows (thach), thrilling snow slides, and vertical descents using ropes near the pass.

 Buran Ghati Trek Map and Route Overview


Here’s a breakdown of the Buran Ghati Trek route:

Starting Point: Janglik (Shimla district)
 Ending Point: Barua village (Kinnaur district)
 Total Trekking Days: 6-8
 Trek Distance: ~37–40 km
 Highest Altitude: 15,000 feet (Buran Ghati Pass)

 Buran Ghati Trek Map (Route Points):



  1. Shimla → Diude/Janglik (Base village)


  2. Janglik → Dayara Thach


  3. Dayara Thach → Litham


  4. Litham → Chandranahan Lake (acclimatization hike)


  5. Litham → Dhunda (base of Buran Pass)


  6. Dhunda → Buran Ghati Pass → River Camp


  7. River Camp → Barua Village → Drive to Shimla/Kalpa



Note: A topographic or GPS trail map is highly recommended for this trek, especially for the Buran Ghati descent, which can be technical.

 Buran Ghati Trek Distance and Altitude Chart





















































Section From → To Distance Altitude
Day 1 Shimla → Janglik (drive) ~150 km (6–7 hrs) 9,200 ft
Day 2 Janglik → Dayara Thach ~5 km 11,000 ft
Day 3 Dayara → Litham ~4 km 11,800 ft
Day 4 Litham → Chandranahan Lake (optional hike) ~7 km (RT) 13,800 ft
Day 5 Litham → Dhunda ~4 km 13,000 ft
Day 6 Dhunda → Buran Pass → River Camp ~9 km 15,000 ft
Day 7 River Camp → Barua Village ~6–7 km 6,500 ft

 Best Time for Buran Ghati Trek


The best time to do the Buran Ghati Trek is:

 Summer Season (May to mid-June):



  • Highlights: Snow-covered passes, dramatic snow slides near Buran Ghati, frozen Chandranahan Lake.


  • Ideal for those who love snow adventures.



 Autumn Season (September to mid-October):



  • Highlights: Crystal-clear skies, golden-brown meadows, pleasant weather, and post-monsoon freshness.


  • Ideal for photographers and trekkers who want better visibility and trail conditions.



???? Avoid July–August due to monsoons and slippery trails. Also, mid-October onwards, the trail becomes inaccessible due to snow accumulation.

 Why Buran Ghati Trek is Special



  1. Buran Ghati Pass (15,000 ft):
     A dramatic, narrow pass flanked by high cliffs and offering 360-degree Himalayan views. The descent often requires a rope, adding to the thrill.


  2. Chandranahan Lake:
     A sacred glacial lake near Litham, surrounded by snow patches. It adds spiritual and scenic charm to the trek.


  3. Snow Wall & Rappelling:
     The descent from Buran Pass includes a near-vertical snow wall (~400 ft). Trekkers often rappel down using ropes — a rare Himalayan experience.


  4. Forests to Alpine Terrain:
     The trail begins in pine and oak forests, transitions to vast meadows (like Dayara Thach), and ends in rocky moraines and glacial zones.


  5. Cultural Crossover:
     You start in the Hindu-dominated region of Rohru and end in the Buddhist-influenced Kinnaur valley, offering cultural diversity and hospitality.



 Popular Campsites on the Trek



  • Dayara Thach: Gorgeous meadows, ideal for acclimatization.


  • Litham: Beside Pabbar river, stunning backdrop of mountains.


  • Dhunda: Base camp of the Buran Pass, snow-covered surroundings.


  • River Camp: Located just after the pass, on grassy terrain.



 Essential Gear Checklist



  • Warm clothes: Base layers, fleece, down jacket


  • Waterproof trekking boots & gaiters


  • Rain gear (poncho or jacket)


  • Trekking poles


  • Sleeping bag (if self-organized)


  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, gloves, cap


  • Water bottle, snacks, personal medication


  • Technical gear (if descending via ropes — usually provided by trek operators)



 Trek Difficulty & Preparation



  • Grade: Moderate to difficult (because of steep climbs and rappelling section)


  • Fitness Required: Good physical fitness, prior trekking experience recommended


  • AMS Risk: Moderate — proper acclimatization and hydration are essential


  • Rope Training: Operators often provide basic rope safety guidance for snow descent



 Photography & Visual Treats



  • Meadows blooming with wildflowers in spring


  • Sunrise at Dhunda with snowy peaks in view


  • Chandernahan Lake reflections


  • Snowy Buran Ghati Pass views


  • Remote Kinnaur villages and ancient architecture



 Guided or DIY Trek?


While experienced trekkers may attempt this trail on their own with proper navigation gear, it is strongly recommended to hire a certified guide or join a trek group — especially for the snow descent from the pass, which can be technical and risky.

 Conclusion


The Buran Ghati Trek is one of India’s most underrated yet spectacular treks. With its exhilarating landscapes, cultural richness, and a pinch of adrenaline near the pass, it offers an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or looking for your next big adventure, Buran Ghati will leave you spellbound.

 

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