dETAILED ITINERARY
Overview of the Buran Ghati Trek
Buran Ghati Trek is an exceptional and challenging trek in the heart of Himachal Pradesh covering a distance of 42 km from the base camp Janglik to Brua village via Chandranahan Lake, as it is a cross-trail trek starting from one valley and ending in another.
Located at an altitude of 15,000 feet in the Sangla Valley in Kinnaur, Buran Ghati is not just a trek: it is a complete package that includes everything from pristine to challenging terrains. This trek is suitable for both experienced trekkers and adventurous beginners, making it one of the most sought-after treks in the Indian Himalayas. It is a 7-day trek and a slightly challenging trek that can be scaled from moderate to difficult depending on the difficulty.
The best time to explore this trek is from May to October and the ideal time as per the weather is from September to the end of October, which offers trekkers a perfect blend of lush green meadows, dense forests, glacial lakes, and the thrill of crossing high-altitude mountain passes.
Historical and Mythological Importance of Buran Ghati
The Buran Ghati trek is not only a trail of natural beauty but is also full of historical and mythological significance. The area around Buran Ghati has been inhabited for centuries, with villages like Janglikh serving as cultural centers for the local population. The architectural style of the houses, the customs, and the festivals celebrated by the people reflect a deep history that has been passed down through generations.
Mythologically, the region is often associated with ancient Hindu legends. The Chandranahan Lake, which you visit during the trek, is considered sacred. According to local folklore, it is the source of the Pabbar River, and many believe that the waters of the lake have healing properties. This connection to divine myths adds to the spiritual aura of the trek, making it not just a physical journey but a journey through the rich cultural fabric of the region.
Cultural Significance of Buran Ghati Trek
The Buran Ghati region is a blend of cultures, largely influenced by the traditions of the Himachali people. The villages you pass through, such as Janglikh, reflect a lifestyle that has remained unchanged for centuries. The villagers still practice traditional agriculture and are deeply attached to their land, reflecting a symbiotic relationship with nature that is the cornerstone of their cultural identity. Festivals in the region are vibrant and celebrated with music, dance, and traditional attire. Local handicrafts, especially woolen shawls and handmade jewelry, are a testament to the artistic skills of the people. Trekkers often find themselves mesmerized by the warmth and hospitality of the locals, who are eager to share their stories and culture with visitors.
Best Time to Trek Buran Ghati Trek
The best time to trek Buran Ghati depends on what you want from the experience. The trek is open in both summer and autumn seasons, each offering a unique perspective on the landscape.
Spring to Early Summer: (April to June)
Ideal for: Blooming flora and mild weather
During the spring and early summer months, the trail is adorned with blooming rhododendrons and other alpine flowers. The weather is mild, making it the ideal time for those who like to trek in moderate conditions. The days are warm, while the nights are cool, allowing for comfortable camping. The snow begins to melt in the higher elevations, revealing lush green meadows and clear paths, although some snow can still be found in the higher elevations.
Monsoon: (July to September)
Ideal for: Greenery and fewer crowds
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to the region, turning the landscape into a lush paradise. However, the paths can be slippery and challenging due to the wet conditions. This season is less popular among trekkers, so you can expect fewer crowds if you choose to go at this time. Be prepared for possible delays or route changes due to landslides or swollen rivers.
Autumn: (September to November)
Ideal for: Clear skies and panoramic views
Autumn is considered the best time to trek the Buran Valley. The skies are usually clear, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Temperatures are cool, especially at higher elevations, but conditions are generally stable and pleasant for trekking. The post-monsoon season also means that vegetation is still plentiful, with the added benefit of fewer insects and a dry trail.
Difficulty Level in Buran Ghati Trek
The Buran Ghati trek is classified as a moderate to difficult trek, suitable for trekkers with some prior experience. The varying terrain from lush green meadows to snow-laden passes requires a good level of physical fitness and mental preparation.
Trail Conditions in Each Season
• Spring to early summer: Trails are mostly clear, but there are some patches of snow at higher elevations. The paths that are passing through forests and meadows are well-paved, making them easy to navigate.
• Monsoon: Trails can be muddy and slippery due to rain. Forest areas can be more challenging due to wet conditions, and trekkers need to be cautious of leeches and insects.
• Autumn: Trails are dry and firm, making trekking easier. There may still be some snow in higher elevations, but the paths are generally well-defined and safe. Distance and Duration
The Buran Ghati trek covers a distance of approximately 37 km, which is generally completed in 7 days. Each day has a distance of 5 to 10 km to be covered, with varying levels of difficulty depending on the altitude and terrain.
Weather Conditions on the Trails
• Spring to early summer: mild temperatures, little snowfall at higher elevations. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, dropping to 0°C to 5°C at night.
• Monsoon: Hot and humid in the lower regions, with heavy rainfall. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C during the day and 5°C to 10°C at night.
• Autumn: Cooler temperatures, with clear skies. Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, while night temperatures drop to -5°C at higher altitudes.
Physical Fitness Requirements
Given the treks moderate to difficult classification, participants should be in good physical condition. Regular cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and stamina-building activities are recommended in the months before the trek. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is beneficial, although not mandatory.
How to Reach Buran Ghati
The Buran Ghati trek begins from the base camp in Janglikh, a remote village that can be reached via Shimla, the nearest major city.
Shimla is the Pickup Point
Shimla, well-connected by road, rail, and air, serves as the ideal pickup point for the Buran Ghati trek. The city is easily accessible from major Indian cities, making it a convenient starting location. From Shimla, trekkers typically drive to Janglikh, which takes about 6-7 hours.
Reaching the Base Camp – Janglikh
Janglikh is a small village located at an altitude of approximately 9,200 feet. The journey from Shimla to Janglikh is scenic, passing through dense forests, apple orchards, and picturesque hamlets. The road leading to Janglikh is narrow and winding, adding a sense of adventure right from the start. Upon reaching Janglikh, trekkers can spend the night in a local guesthouse or camp, acclimatizing to the altitude before beginning the trek the next day.
By Air: The nearest airport to Janglik, the base camp, is Jubbarhatti Airport in Shimla, approximately 150 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Janglik.
By Train: The nearest railway station is at Shimla, which is well connected to major cities in India. From Shimla, you can either take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Janglik.
By Road: Janglik is well connected by road to major cities in Himachal Pradesh. You can drive from Shimla, passing through Rohru and Chirgaon, to reach the base camp. Alternatively, regular buses and shared taxis operate from Shimla to Janglik.
Buran Ghat Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Heading to the Janglik Base Camp.
Distance: 150 km by road from Shimla to Janglikh
Travel Time: 6-7 hours by road
Altitude: 9,200 ft
Weather: The weather in Janglikh is generally cool, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C. Nights can be chilly, with temperatures dropping from 0°C to 5°C.
Your adventure begins with a drive from Shimla to Janglik, the base camp for the Buran Ghati Trek. The drive itself is an experience, winding through the scenic roads of Himachal Pradesh, passing through Rohru and Chirgaon, small towns known for their apple orchards. As you ascend to Janglik, you notice the shift in landscape from bustling towns to quiet, serene villages. Janglik is a quaint hamlet nestled at an altitude of 9,200 feet, surrounded by towering mountains and dense forests.
Day 2: Janglik to Dayara Thach.
Distance: 7 km trek
Travel Time: 4-5 hours
Altitude: Start at 9,200 ft and reach 11,075 ft at Dayara Thach
Weather: Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, with cooler temperatures at night, dropping to around 5°C to 10°C. The weather is generally pleasant, with clear skies and cool breezes.
The trek from Janglik to Dayara Thach begins with a gentle ascent through pine forests, gradually opening up to lush meadows. As you leave the forest behind, the landscape transforms into vast, green expanses dotted with wildflowers. Dayara Thach, your campsite for the night, is one of the most beautiful meadows on this trek, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 3: Dayara to Litham.
Distance: 6 km trek
Travel Time: 4-5 hours
Altitude: Start at 11,075 ft and reach 11,737 ft at Litham
Weather: Mild daytime temperatures of 10°C to 15°C, with night temperatures dropping to around 0°C to 5°C. The weather is typically clear, with a slight chill in the air as you gain altitude.
On the third day, the trek continues from Dayara Thach to Litham, a relatively short but incredibly scenic walk. The trail takes you through rolling meadows, alongside the Pabbar River, and finally to the Litham campsite, located at the confluence of multiple streams. The sight of the Dhauladhar range in the distance adds to the beauty of this place.
Day 4: Excursion to Chandranahan Lake.
Distance: 8 km trek (round trip)
Travel Time: 6-7 hours
Altitude: Start at 11,737 ft, reach 13,900 ft at Chandranahan Lake, and return to 11,737 ft at Litham
Weather: Cooler temperatures at higher altitudes, ranging from 5°C to 10°C during the day, and dropping to -5°C to 0°C at night. Expect colder winds and possibly some snow at the lake.
Day four is reserved for an excursion to the Chandranahan Lake, a high-altitude glacial lake revered by locals. The trek to the lake is a steep climb, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the pristine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. After spending some time at the lake, soaking in the tranquility and the beauty of the surroundings, you will return to Litham for the night.
Day 5: Litham to Nalabansh.
Distance: 4 km trek
Travel Time: 3-4 hours
Altitude: Start at 11,737 ft and reach 13,365 ft at Nalabansh
Weather: Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C, with nighttime temperatures dropping to -5°C to 0°C. The weather is typically cold, especially at night, with a high chance of snow on the ground.
The fifth day involves a trek from Litham to Nalabansh, a challenging yet rewarding day. The trail ascends steeply as you approach the Buran Ghati Pass. Nalabansh, your campsite for the night, is a high-altitude meadow surrounded by towering peaks. The campsite offers clear views of the Buran Ghati Pass, setting the stage for the next days adventure.
Day 6: Nalabansh to Munirang via Buran Ghati.
Distance: 7 km trek
Travel Time: 7-8 hours
Altitude: Start at 13,365 ft, cross Buran Ghati at 15,000 ft, and descend to 11,800 ft at Munirang
Weather: Extremely cold at the pass, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to -10°C. The descent into Munirang brings milder conditions, with temperatures around 0°C to 5°C during the day and -5°C to 0°C at night.
This is the most challenging and exhilarating day of the trek, as you cross the Buran Ghati Pass. The ascent to the pass is steep, and the descent on the other side is even steeper, often requiring the use of ropes. The thrill of crossing the pass is unmatched, with stunning views of the Kinnaur Valley on the other side. The descent leads you to the Munirang campsite, located in a lush green valley.
Day 7: Munirang to Barua Village.
Distance: 5 km trek
Travel Time: 3-4 hours
Altitude: Start at 11,800 ft and descend to 6,700 ft at Brua Village
The final day of the trek involves a descent from Munirang to Brua Village. The trail passes through dense forests of oak and pine, gradually leading you back to civilization. Brua Village, with its traditional Himachali architecture and friendly locals, marks the end of the trek.
Why Choose Our Buran Ghati Trek Package?
- Expertise: With years of experience in organizing treks, we provide a well-structured Buran Trek Package that caters to all your needs.
- Safety: Well-defined safety protocols are designed through our team for the trekker to safer trekking to the trek.
- Value for Money: We offer competitive pricing for our package without compromising on quality or experience.
faq
1. What is the best time to do the Buran Ghati Trek?
The ideal time to go on the Buran Valley trek is during the summer months of May to June and the post-monsoon season of September to October. During these periods, the weather is generally stable, the trails are clear and the natural beauty is at its peak.
2. How difficult is the Buran Ghati Trek?
The Buran Valley trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. It involves steep climbs, tricky descents, and crossing the Buran Pass at an altitude of 15,000 feet. Proper physical fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.
3. How are the trail conditions on the Buran Ghati Trek?
The trail conditions vary depending on the season. In summer, the trails are generally clear and well-defined, while post-monsoon, the trails may be a little muddy but manageable. In winter, the route is covered with snow, making it more difficult and suitable for experienced trekkers.
4. What is the elevation profile of the Buran Ghati Trek?
Buran Valley Also known as the Burando Pass trek, the trek begins at Janglik (9,200 ft), gaining altitude at Dayara Thach (11,075 ft), Litham (11,737 ft) and Buran Valley Pass (15,000 ft). After crossing the pass, the trek descends to Munirang (11,800 ft) and finally to Brua Village (6,700 ft).
5. What are the accommodation options on the Buran Ghati Trek?
Accommodation along the Buran Valley trek includes basic guesthouses, homestays, and campsites. Shimla, Janglik, Dayara Thach, Litham, Nalbansh, Munirang, and Brua Village all offer places to rest, ranging from simple lodges to tented camps.
6. Is it necessary to have prior trekking experience for the Buran Ghati Trek?
Although prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it is highly recommended due to the challenging nature of the trek. Participants should be physically fit and prepared for steep climbs, high-altitude trekking, and potential weather-related challenges.
7. What should I pack for the Buran Ghati Ghati Trek?
Essential items include warm clothes, trekking shoes, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a first-aid kit, and enough food and water for the trip. Also, pack a raincoat and waterproof cover for your gear, especially if trekking during the monsoons.
8. How long does the Buran Ghati Trek take?
The Buran Valley trek usually takes 7 days, starting from Janglik and ending at Brua Village. It involves daily treks of between 4 and 8 hours, depending on the days route and elevation gain.
9. Is there any cultural or historical significance attached to the Buran Ghati Trek?
Yes, the Buran Valley region has rich cultural and historical significance. This trek passes through ancient villages like Janglik, where traditional Himachali culture is well preserved. Additionally, Chandranahan Lake is considered sacred by the locals. The classic route connecting Pabbar Valley of Shimla to the Baspa Valley of Kinnaur in Himachal; eventually the British used this trek route to travel on a route with less humidity than others.
10. What kind of weather can I expect on the Buran Ghati Trek?
The weather on the Buran Valley Trek varies according to the season. Summers have pleasant temperatures, while the post-monsoon period has cool breeze and clear skies. Winters are cold, with heavy snowfall making the trek more challenging.
11. How do I reach the starting point of the Buran Ghati Trek?
The trek starts from Janglik, which is accessible by road from Shimla. Trekkers usually drive from Shimla to Janglik, passing through charming villages and beautiful landscapes.
12. What are the safety considerations for the Buran Ghati Trek?
Safety is paramount on the Buran Valley trek. Trekkers must acclimatize properly, carry adequate supplies, and be prepared for sudden weather changes. It is advisable to trek with a guide or in a group, especially when crossing the Buran Pass.
