Rupin Pass Trek

5 (1 Review)
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
From: ₹ 18,000
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Duration

5 Nights 6 Days

Cancellation

Up to 7 days

Group Size

12 people

Languages

English, Hindi

About this activity

High above the valleys and forests, the Rupin Pass Trek reveals a side of the Himalayas that a few get to see. Starting from the serene village of Jiskun in Himachal Pradesh, and ending at the beautiful Sangla Valley, this trek offers a perfect blend of challenge and natural beauty. The Rupin Pass stands tall at an impressive 15,279 ft elevation, making it one of the most exciting high-altitude treks in the region.

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Covering a trek distance of around 33.7 km over 6 days, each day on the trail brings a fresh view, a new challenge, and moments that stay etched in memory. Along the way, you walk through thick forests, green meadows, rocky paths, and snowy slopes

Trekkers walk through offbeat villages like Jakha and camp near the majestic Rupin Waterfall at a campsite, Dhanderas Thatch, that feels like a dream. One of the most thrilling highlights is the steep climb to Rupin Pass, where you may cross snow bridges in summer or rocky trails in autumn. The view from the top, with the Himalayas all around, is nothing short of magical

This trek is a complete Himalayan experience. It combines stunning visuals, adventure, and the calm of untouched mountain life. Ideal for those with prior trekking experience and good fitness, the Rupin Pass Trek promises a challenge and a reward like no other.

Quick Facts about Rupin Pass Trek

  • Trek Region: Himachal Pradesh
  • Start/End Point of the Trek: Shimla
  • Rupin Pass Trek Distance: 33.7 km
  • Trek Duration: 5N/6D
  • Rupin Pass Trek Height: 15,250 ft
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
  • Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station
  • Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla
  • Last ATM Point: Rohru (before Jiskun)
  • Mobile Network: Intermittent (BSNL and Jio at a few points)
  • Trek Distance Per Day: Varies between 2.4 km-11.9 kms

Best Time to Do Rupin Pass Trek

The best time for Rupin Pass Trek is from late May to early July and then from mid-September to mid-October. These windows offer the best mix of clear weather, scenic beauty, and manageable trail conditions.

Summer Season: Late May to Early July

  • Trail Conditions: Snow bridges, melting ice, and blooming meadows.
  • Scenery: Snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and thundering waterfalls.
  • Day Temperature: 12°C to 18°C
  • Night Temperature: 0°C to 7°C

This is when the trek looks magical. Snow is still present in higher sections, especially near Rupin Pass and the famous waterfall zone. Trekkers get to cross icy patches and sometimes even a snow bridge right beneath the waterfall. Forests are green, and the air feels crisp and fresh.

Autumn Season: Mid-September to Mid-October

  • Trail Conditions: Dry, rocky, and more stable; little to no snow.
  • Scenery: Golden forests, clear skies, and sharp mountain views.
  • Day Temperature: 10°C to 16°C
  • Night Temperature: -2°C to 5°C

This is the best time for clear mountain views. The skies are mostly cloudless, and the trail becomes more rugged. Nights get colder, especially near the higher camps like Upper Waterfall and Ronti Gad. This time is great for trekkers who enjoy a chilly, dry adventure without worrying about slippery snow.

Note: The Monsoon Season (July to early September) is not recommended due to frequent landslides, leeches, and risky trail conditions.

How to Reach Rupin Pass Trek Basecamp

The basecamp for the Rupin Pass Trek, Jiskun, involves a combination of travel modes. Whether you are coming from Delhi, Chandigarh, or other major cities, here’s how you can plan your journey to this remote Himalayan village:

By Flight

  • Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti) – approx. 210 km from Jiskun
  • Alternative Airport: Chandigarh International Airport – approx. 301 km from Jiskun

Tip: Shimla Airport has limited connectivity, mostly from Delhi. A better option is Chandigarh, which is more reliable and has frequent flights from all major cities.

From Shimla or Chandigarh, you hire a cab or take a local/shared taxi for Rohru, and then for Jiskun.

By Train

  • Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station – approx. 190.4 km from Jiskun
  • Major Nearby Railhead: Kalka Railway Station – approx. 265 km from Jiskun

If you are coming by train, Kalka is the most convenient broad-gauge station. From Kalka, you can:

  • Take the famous Kalka – Shimla toy train (5-6 hrs)
  • Or hire a cab to reach Shimla directly (3-4 hrs by road)

From Shimla, follow the same road route to Jiskun.

By Bus

  • Nearest Major Bus Stand: Shimla ISBT – approx 194 km from Jiskun

You can find regular HRTC buses to Rohru from Shimla. However, buses beyond Rohru are limited. From Rohru, the route to Jiskun is remote and mostly serviced by shared taxis or private jeeps.

Rupin Pass Trek Package

Planning a high-altitude adventure like Rupin Pass requires good preparation, and a reliable trek package ensures you get the best experience without the stress of logistics. 

For 5 Nights/6 Days, Rupin Pass Trek Cost: Rs. 18,000/-

Kindly review the Terms and Conditions before proceeding with your booking.

Looking to explore more adventures? Here are the top treks in Himachal Pradesh that promise stunning views and unforgettable experiences:

  1. Indrahar Pass Trek, MacleodGanj
  2. Sar Pas Trek
  3. Buran Ghati Trek

Also, you can explore Him Trek’s top stays in Himachal while travelling to your favourite destinations.

Departure Dates

Highlights

  • Cross the iconic Rupin Pass with 15,250 ft, one of the most thrilling high-altitude Himalayan passes.
  • Trek through stunning landscapes - dense forests, hanging villages, glacial meadows, and roaring waterfalls.
  • Camp below the majestic 1,500 ft Rupin Waterfall at Dhanderas Thatch.
  • Experience the rich culture of remote Himachali villages like Jakha.
  • Trek across snow bridges and rocky ridgelines, especially during the exciting ascent to the pass.
  • A complete package of adventure, culture, and natural beauty - ideal for those seeking both challenge and serenity.
  • Total travel duration is 7 days, including long yet scenic drives from Shimla to Jiskun and back via Sangla.

Included/Excluded

  • Accommodation on a sharing basis in tents or homestays
  • All veg meals from Dinner on Day 1 to Breakfast on Day 6
  • Camping and trekking gear - tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, etc.
  • Micro spikes and gaiters (as per snow conditions)
  • Trek leader certified in wilderness first aid
  • Supporting staff, including the cook and helpers
  • Forest permits and trek permissions
  • Basic medical kit with an oxygen cylinder
  • Stay includes both tent accommodation and traditional homestays
  • Meals during travel (Shimla to Jiskun and Sangla to Shimla)
  • Personal expenses like snacks, bottled water, or souvenirs
  • Backpack offloading charges (if you choose not to carry your own)
  • Any kind of personal/travel/medical insurance

Itinerary

Drive Distance: 280 km | Basecamp: Jiskun

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Shimla to Jiskun, a peaceful village tucked away in Himachal Pradesh.

Arrive at Jiskun by evening and settle into the cool, crisp mountain air. Rest well, for the trek begins tomorrow.

Trek Distance: 4 km | Trek Duration: 4 hours | Altitude Gain: 7,630 ft to 8,755 ft

The trail kicks off with a refreshing descent through pine forests, followed by a steep and demanding ascent toward the charming village of Jakha.

This is the last inhabited village on the trail, known for its old-world Himachali charm.

The trek is a challenging one. You can expect an hour's descent followed by an hour's steep ascent.

Trek Distance: 8 km | Trek Duration: 5 - 6 hours | Altitude Gain: 8,755 ft to 10,770 ft

Today’s trek is a treat for nature lovers.

You begin through enchanting fir and maple forests, often blanketed in morning mist.

Soon, the scenery opens up to vast meadows with the roar of the Rupin River beside you.

As you reach Dhanderas Thatch, the awe-inspiring sight of the 1,500 ft Rupin Waterfall steals the show - your campsite lies right beneath it.

Trek Distance: 2.4 km | Trek Duration: 2 - 3 hours | Altitude Gain: 11,700 ft to 13,275 ft

Though short, today’s trek is steep and thrilling. You ascend alongside the mighty waterfall, often crossing over it via snow bridges in early season or rocky patches later on.

The campsite at Upper Waterfall offers spectacular panoramic views and prepares you for the big pass day ahead.

Trek Distance: 7.4 km | Trek Duration: 9 - 10 hours Altitude Gain/Loss: 13,275 ft to 15,279 ft (Rupin Pass), descend to 13,005 ft

This is the most exciting and challenging day of the trek. You’ll begin around 3 AM, climbing through snowy gullies and steep ridges to reach the majestic Rupin Pass.

The climb is intense but incredibly rewarding - stand atop the pass and soak in the views of snow-capped peaks all around.

The descent to Ronti Gad tests your endurance but ends at a peaceful high-altitude meadow.

Trek Distance: 11.9 km | Trek Duration: 6 hours | Altitude Loss: 13,005 ft to 8,660 ft

Your final day begins with a long descent through alpine slopes and pine forests as you leave the high mountains behind.

By afternoon, you will reach Sangla, a picturesque village in the Baspa Valley.

After some rest and celebration, begin your drive back to Shimla, carrying unforgettable memories from this incredible journey.

Frequently asked questions

The trek covers approximately 33.7 km over 6 days, with varying daily distances ranging from 2.4 km to 11.9 km.

Rupin Pass. It stands at an impressive altitude of 15,279 ft.

Moderate to Difficult. This trek is ideal for trekkers with prior experience and good fitness levels.

  • Comfortable trekking shoes
  • Warm clothing (layers, as temperatures can vary)
  • Rain gear
  • Personal toiletries
  • A sturdy backpack
  • Snacks and hydration gear

  • Summer Season: Late May to early July (for snow bridges and blooming meadows)
  • Autumn Season: Mid-September to mid-October (for dry, rugged trails and clear skies)

Activity's Location

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
From: ₹ 18,000

Owner

Damini

Member Since 2025

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