Complete Guide
Buran Ghati Trek — Complete Guide
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.
Quick Facts
Duration
7 Days
Max Altitude
15,000 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Best Time
Buran Ghati has a tight window: May-June (snow) an...
Trek Distance
48 km
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.
The Ice Wall Adventure
Key point
Buran Ghati is the only commercial trek in India that requires a technical rappel. The 70-degree ice-wall descent is the single most adrenaline-pumping moment in Indian adventure trekking.
Key point
The Chandranahan Lakes are often overlooked in Buran Ghati's shadow, but they are among the most sacred and beautiful glacial lakes in the Shimla region.
Explore In Detail
Best Time to Visit
Buran Ghati has a tight window: May-June (snow) and September-October (clear). The ice-slide is best in May-June when snow is deep.
→ See month-by-month season guideDay by Day Itinerary
7-day route reaching 15,000ft. Covers 48km of varied terrain.
→ See full itinerary with altitude profileDifficulty & Fitness
Rated moderate. Forest, meadows, snow fields, and the technical ice wall. The ice wall is the crux — 70-degree descent on ropes.
→ See difficulty breakdown and fitness guideCost & Pricing
Packages range from ₹12,500 – ₹22,000. Inclusions and hidden costs vary by operator tier.
→ See full cost breakdownPermits and Regulations
Forest permits are required from the Rohru Forest Division. The trek passes through restricted forest zones near Chandranahan. Indian nationals require a photo ID and a medical fitness certificate is recommended for the technical sections. The ice-wall descent requires that all trekkers use harnesses, ropes, and helmets — operators are mandated to provide these. Groups are limited in size to minimize environmental impact on the fragile Chandranahan ecosystem.
Learn more about how we vet operators and ensure transparency on our why MountRoutes page.
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.
Other Trek Guides
Everything you need to know, in one place. Someone else in your group needs to see this.
Planning Buran Ghati Trek?
Get route conditions, operator updates, and season windows before booking.
No spam. Only useful updates.
Ready to walk this route?
You’ve read the guide, now find the perfect local team to take you there. Compare our verified list of operators.
Compare verified operators