Basic overview of Buran Ghati Trek

Buran Ghat is a high-altitude mountain pass situated at the height of 15,000 ft, approximately 4,570 m. It links to Shimla’s Pabbar Valley and Kinnaur’s Baspa Valley.One needs to trek for 6 to 8 days, including buffer day, starting from Janglik to Barua village. Trekkers complete around 40 to 45 km round trip, passing through snowfields and ice walls. As dramatic as its landscape is, its descent is equally thrilling.Ideal for adventurers, especially those who are seeking to experience snow thrills. This technical trek comes with caution but a well-trodden path makes it accessible. It is a great choice for nature lovers to immerse themselves in solitude and local culture.

Key Highlights of Buran Ghati

• Dayara Meadows makes a quiet impact on trekkers because of its lush green alpine meadows and 360-degree view of mountains.

• At an altitude of 14,000 ft there is a sacred lake that goes by the name of Chandranahan. This mystical lake is surrounded by snow-clad mountains.

• The Buran Ghati trek offers you the best of thrills like, snow sliding and rappelling.

• The ever-changing terrain introduces you to pine and oak forests, snowy ridges, alpine meadows, glaciers, and riversides- all in just a few days.

• Wooden houses of serene villages give the opportunity to meet Pahadi people and learn about their culture.

Permit Requirement for Buran Ghati Trek

To obtain the Buran Ghati Trek Permit trekkers must bring their government ID cards (Aadhar card, PAN card, driver’s license), both original and photocopied.You also need to submit a medical health certificate signed by the doctor stating that you are fit to do the trek.Before the trek starts, you are given a risk undertaking form stating legal waiver.  Registration fees of TIMS, is included in the package and is usually handled by your trekking agency.

Complete Day-Wise Itinerary for Buran Ghati Trek

Day 1: Drive From Shimla To Janglik

Drive distance: 160 km, around 9 to 10 hours,Altitude covered: 9,200 ft.,Meals included: dinner,Overnight stay: guesthouse in Janglik

How does your day 1 look?

• The base camp is in Shimla. Janglik is 160 km away from Shimla.

• Rohru is the last ATM point in this trek. While driving to Janglik enjoy the view of Himalayan colonies on the way.

• Beyond Rohru, there is no mobile network coverage and you won’t get a charging facility beyond that. So carry your power banks.

• Relish over lunch in Chirgaon village.

• Drive till Janglik and call it a day by resting in a local guest house.

• Settle down, freshen up, and enjoy your dinner.

• If the weather is unfavorable, then you might have to do a trek from Janglik to Tangdu and sleep in camps.

Day 2: Trek From Janglik to Dayara Thatch

Trek distance: 6 to 7 km, around 5 to 6 hours, Altitude covered: 11,150ft.,Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner, evening snacks, and dinner.,Overnight stay: alpine camps at Dayara Thatch

How does your day 2 look?

• Have a hearty breakfast with a hot cup of tea before you begin the journey.

• Climb all the way up to Dayara Meadows until you reach the forest of Oak and pine-the most scenic view of the day.

• Descent the forest for another 30 minutes and enter the wheat field with the border of mud huts.

• Begin to climb uphill for one more hour as you leave the mud houses behind.

• See the mesmerizing view of Janglik, Tangdu, and a few other villages as you enter the ledge. This is where you can pause and re energize.

• Go through a clearing and then ascend towards the forest as you resume your trek journey. Trek in the forest for another 30 minutes before you see the wide landscape in front.

• Take a left and keep climbing uphill to leave the tree line behind.

• One more hour and Coniferous forest cover starts. Make your way to the lush meadows of Dayara as the forest cover ends.

• Look around and enjoy the view of snow-clad mountains embracing the meadow. This is where our campsite is waiting.

• Your trek leader might suggest you to take acclimatization walks before dinner.

Day 3: Trek From Dayara Thatch to Litham

Trek distance: 4 to 5 km, around 3 to 4 hours, Altitude covered: 11,800 ft , Meals included: breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner., Overnight stay: alpine camps at Litham

How does your day 3 look?

• Start early before we resume, as the morning beauty of Dayara Meadows seeks attention. Enjoy breakfast and explore the landscape and recommence your journey to Litham.

• Today’s trail starts with a gentle ascent that takes you through a section of forest, meadows, and streams flowing parallel.

• You will get enough opportunities today to refill your water bottles.

• After sometime reach Guna Pass, and then another forest section and stream. As you cross the Dhauladhar Range the Guna Pass starts emerging.

• Keep walking to enter the Silver Birch forest. Ascend from here, enter another stream. From here the first distinct view of Litham comes.

• To reach the campsite you will need to take a descent and cross the Chandranahan stream- the other side of the stream is your retiring place for today. The waterfall you see from this site is known as Chandranahan Waterfall. Tomorrow you will be walking beyond this site to visit Chandernahan Lake.

Day 4: Visit Chandernahan Lake and acclimatize

Trek distance: 6 km, 6 to 7 hours trekking to and fro, Altitude covered: 13,200 ft.,Meals included: breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner.,Overnight stay: alpine camps at Litham

How does your day 4 look?

• Today is the day of rest, acclimatization, and soaking up in the beautiful nature. Later you come back to your campsite at Litham.

• After relishing over a hearty breakfast served with hot tea, start your Chandranahan trek, which is an 8 km walk from the campsite. 

• Spend some time here at the lake and click as many pictures as you can so that you can relive this beautiful moment again in the future through pictures.

• Head back to your campsite at Litham. Remember, there is a steep descent on your way back. This is the reason you will be asked to start early so that you reach the campsite on time for lunch.

Day 5: Trek From Litham to Dhunda

Trek distance: 4 to 5 km, around 4 to 5 hours, Altitude covered: 13,100 ft., Meals included: breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner., Overnight stay: alpine camps at Dhunda

How does your day 5 look?

• From Litham to Dhunda, it is a 3-hour climb. Witness the magnificent Dhauladhar Range and a distant view of Buran Ghati Pass summit. Now only a few hours of climbing, and you will finally reach the summit.

• Resume your journey along the Pabbar River bank and take a sharp ascent where a U-shaped gorge awaits. Now here you get the first clear view of Buran Ghati Pass. Pause, take a sigh, and drink some water before you move forward.

• An hour’s climb and you will reach a ridge where you finally get the best view of Buran Ghati. This is going to be the best campsite of your entire journey.

• Your campsite is surrounded by the snow-clad mountains.

Day 6: Trek from Dhunda to Buran GhatPass by Munirang River Side Camping

Trek distance: 8 km, around 10 to 11 hours,Altitude covered/loss: 15,000 ft (Buran Ghati Pass), 11,000ft (Munirang),Meals included: breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner.,Overnight stay: alpine camps at riverside

How does your day 6 look?

• Today your energy levels will be tested as you have to trek for around 10 to hours, both ascent and descent.

• Follow the ridge from Dhunda campsite and cross some boulders to reach the pass’s base. It is only an hour’s climb after you reach the top of the pass. Congratulations, you are at an altitude of 15000 ft.

• After staying there for some time, we will prepare to go down. The descent can be quite risky, and you must use ropes to climb down as on both the sides the narrow ledges have steep drops.

• From here you can see the lush valley right in front of you.

• An hour’s descent and you will reach a stream that needs to be crossed. The other side of the stream is our campsite for tonight.

• Rest, as you had a long and tiresome day.

Day 7: Trek From Munirang to Baru village, Drive to Shimla

Trek distance: 5 to 6 km, around 2 to 3 hours,Altitude loss: 3,400 ft,Drive distance: 9 to 10 hours,Meals included: breakfast

How does your last day look?

• Enjoy the hearty meal with your fellow trekker friends and reminisce about the feat.

• After breakfast we head back to Barua village. You get to witness vegetation and diverse scenery on your way back to Munirang and then Barua Khas.

• Descend through the thick forest of pine and coniferous trees. Half an hour’s descent and a gushing stream reminding you that the journey is almost over. This stream joins you with Barua Khas.

Tips for planning Buran Ghati Trek

The Buran Ghati trek is not just another regular trek. It demands solid fitness and patience throughout the challenges you face during the 6 to 7 day course. Choosing this level of adventure? It is advisable to look for tips.

For a milder trek, September and October months are ideal. For snow and alpine adventure, pick the months of May and June.Even if you exercise regularly, prep extra to increase the endurance for a high-altitude uphill climb.This trek is not just about hiking poles; it is about how effortlessly you handle gear, especially in the snow zones. Thin Air Expedition provides all the essential gear, including crampons, ice axe, helmet, rope, and sturdy boots.Embark on this journey with a trusted and certified guide. Why? Certified mountaineers and trained medical experts in conditions where there are no medical emergencies are available at point to assist and ensure successful completion of the escapade.Carry valid government ID for the permit process, food and drinks to keep you rejuvenated, and enough layers to keep you warm in the worst weather conditions.Many trekking agencies give you one day of acclimatization rest and monitor your symptoms to get you prepared for the high-altitude walk.

Risks and Precautions

The Buran Ghati trek does come with some precautions that need to be strictly taken seriously. Symptoms like headache, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and breathlessness are common when the trek crosses 15,000feet.As thrilling as the Buran Ghati trek climbs are, its descents are equally risky. If you are trekking in the months of May and June, then be prepared for the rappelling and snow sliding which cannot be done without proper gear usage guidance and expert assistance.Weather can go from normal to extreme suddenly. And with extreme weather conditions risks also come like hypothermia and gear failure. Slippery trails increase the risk of falling.

There cannot be a quick response in times of emergency. Zero network connectivity limits the access; hence, medical facilities and rescue and evacuation operations can take hours.There are sections in the journey where you will have to cross the fast-flowing rivers, which become more dangerous during the snowmelt and rainy season.The narrow trails and steep ascent and descent demand physical fitness and patience. Be ready to give stress to your legs during the long downhill slopes. But isn’t it all worth it to feel free?

Acclimatize properly and do the workout month prior to this trek. Use only branded, trusted, and technical gear to stay safe.

Always book your trek with a trusted trekking agency. You need to make a life-saving choice with your decision, as these certified trek leaders are trained for emergency protocols. They carry oxygen cylinders, first-aid kits, and enough food for the journey so that your trek is hassle-free.Keep a check on the weather, or ask your trekking agency to update you with the weather conditions.Pack smart, not anything. Keep your luggage as light as possible with essential layer clothing to keep you warm in the cold. Rain jackets are suggested to save you from the sudden shower. Keep sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap.

Do not ignore the signs of AMS (high-altitude sickness symptoms). Immediately inform your guide about your health. If your legs are shaking, stop and drink some water, eat something to regain the energy, and then restart your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Buran Ghati located?

It is located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. This high-altitude mountain pass connects Janglik and Barua village, offering diverse trekking routes.

At what height is Buran Ghati situated?

It is situated at the height of 15,000 feet, approximately 4,572 meters above sea level.

How long is the Buran Ghati trek?

The trek is of around 7 to 8 days (37 to 440 km approx.), inclusive of one additional buffer day.

Is Buran Ghati an easy or difficult trek?

Buran Ghati is a moderate to difficult trek—not recommended for beginners due to steep ascents and descents and snow traverses.

What is the best time to do the Buran Ghati trek?

The best time to embark on this trek is the autumn season (September to mid-October), when the skies are clearer, the landscapes are golden, and there is no or less snow.

Some adventure enthusiasts choose to do this trek during the summer season (mid-May to the end of June) due to thrilling rappels and snow walls.

Is Buran Ghati safe for a solo traveler?

If you are fit and have done other treks before, you are most welcome to join the group. Buran Ghati is not for beginners and solo travelers. Pick a trusted trekking agency and embark on this trek with a group. It is safe, and you can receive emergency services if stuck anywhere.

What kind of climate does Buran Ghati have?

In lower camps the temperature goes from 10 degrees to 15 degrees in the daytime. As the night falls, it can drop to -5 degrees. However, take note that a sudden shift in weather is expected in the region, such as rainfall or snow storms, especially when you are near the pass.

What permits are required for the Buran Ghati trek?

You need to submit a medical certificate signed by the doctor to the travel agency. Fill in and submit the travel registration form. Get the forest entry permit from the local forest department. Thin Air Expedition will help you with all the procedures.

What fitness level is needed for the Buran Ghati trek?

The Buran Ghati trek provokes one’s fitness level. It is advisable to start working on your leg strength at least 4 weeks in advance. Stair climbing, jogging, and cardio exercises also need to be included in your workout routine.

What gear should I carry?

Good hiking boots and a pole are your best friends during the trek. Wear layered clothing to stay warm. The weather keeps changing in the mountainous area, so it is advisable to carry a raincoat. Headlamps help you see the trail during the night trek. Thermals and gloves keep you warm and are essential gear.

Will I get a mobile network or electricity to charge the phone during the trek?

The treks intend to disconnect you from the digital world. The last available network of service providers like BSNL and Jio is in Janglik village. Beyond that, you neither get electricity nor a mobile network. Carry power banks in this case.

What about accommodation and food?

From the first day of your journey, you stay in camps. The package includes meals like breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner—except on the first and last days. On day 1 you get dinner, and on the last day you leave after relishing a hearty breakfast.

Can children do this trek?

This trek is not advisable for children below the age of 12 years.

Within a short span of time, this breathtaking Himalayan terrain offers you snow adventures, cultural immersion, high-altitude passes, and wildflower meadows. This trek is recommended for fit trekkers who crave and thrive for alpine excitement.

Thin Air Expedition promises to give you a complete Himalayan experience by taking you through deep forests, lush meadows, crystal-clear lakes, mountain passes, and snow walls. The trained leaders offer you a raw experience of your lifetime—all in a week’s time.