Essential Planning Guide
Buran Ghati Trek — Complete Guide (2026)
Introduction
Buran Ghati is one of the most exhilarating treks in India. At 15,000 ft, the pass connects the lush Pabbar Valley near Shimla with the stark Kinnaur region. What makes it legendary is the 70-degree ice-wall descent on the far side of the pass — a near-vertical snow face where trekkers rappel down using ropes and harnesses. It is the only commercial trek in India that requires a technical rappel as part of the standard itinerary. The journey starts from the remote village of Janglik, passes through the sacred Chandranahan Lakes (the source of the Pabbar River), and climbs through vast alpine meadows before reaching the dramatic pass. It is a trek that combines the beauty of flower-filled meadows, the spirituality of sacred lakes, and the raw adrenaline of a technical ice descent.
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Iconic Spots
Chandranahan Lake
Buran Ghati Pass Wall
Barua Apple Orchards
Quick Facts
Duration
Max Altitude
Difficulty
Best Time
Trek Distance
Trail Atmosphere
Vertigo Factor
1 / 10
Getting There
Route to Base
8-hour drive from Shimla via Narkanda and Rohru
Last 20 km is rough
Base Village
Janglik (via Shimla/Rohru)
5,600 ft
Nearest Railhead
Rishikesh
Nearest Airport
Jollygrant Airport
Last ATM
Rohru. Carry cash from Shimla.
For Drivers
Explore In Detail
Day by Day Itinerary
7-day route reaching 15,000ft. Covers 48km of varied terrain.
→ See full itinerary with altitude profileDifficulty & Fitness
Rated moderate. Terrain and fitness requirements vary by season.
→ See difficulty breakdown and fitness guideCost & Pricing
Package prices vary by operator, group size and inclusions. Compare transparently on MountRoutes.
→ See full cost breakdownPermits and Regulations
Please ensure you have all mandatory biometric registrations and permits before starting your journey.
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Packing List
Clothing
- Down jacket rated -15°C
- 2 Thermal base layers
- Fleece layer
- Waterproof shell jacket and pants
- Balaclava, woolen cap
- Waterproof gloves
- Woolen socks (3 pairs)
Footwear Gear
- High-ankle waterproof boots
- Microspikes (mandatory)
- Gaiters
- Camp slippers
Technical Gear
- Harness (usually provided by operator)
- Helmet (usually provided)
- 2 Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- UV400 Sunglasses
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Power bank 10000mAh
- 2L Water capacity
- Personal medical kit
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "Slide" at Buran Ghati?
The highlight of the trek is a 400-meter steep snow slide from the pass on the Barua side. It is as exhilarating as it is steep.
Where do we start the trek?
The trek starts from Janglik, a beautiful heritage village in the Shimla district.
Is it a crossover trek?
Yes, you start from the Shimla district and end in the Sangla valley of Kinnaur.
What is the highest point?
The Buran Ghati Pass at 15,000 ft.
Can we see the Chandernahan lake?
Yes, most itineraries include a side-trip to the sacred seven-lake system of Chandernahan.
How is the forest on this route?
Some of the denseest oak and cedar forests in Himachal are found between Janglik and Dayara meadows.
Is it suitable for beginners?
It is moderate. A fit beginner can do it, but the pass crossing requires good physical courage and stamina.
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This encyclopedia entry for Buran Ghati Trek is curated from a mix of public survey records, first-hand climber accounts, and official permit logs. However, mountains are dynamic. If you have been on this route recently and noticed a change in terrain, water availability, or local regulations, we want to hear from you.
Community Vetted
Last Verified: May 2026
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