Buran Ghati Trek stands as one of India’s most compelling high-altitude adventures, offering a classic "crossover" experience that bridges the lush, emerald valleys of Shimla with the rugged, high-desert landscapes of Kinnaur. Scaling an impressive altitude of 4,575 meters, this seven-day trek is a masterclass in Himalayan diversity, featuring ancient architecture, glacial lakes, and adrenaline-pumping descents.
Journey begins with a scenic 182 km drive from Shimla to the remote village of Janglik. This settlement serves as a living museum of Himachali culture, where traditional wooden houses and intricate temples set the stage for the wilderness ahead. Staying in a local homestay on the first night provides trekkers with a vital glimpse into the quiet, resilient life of the upper Pabbar Valley before the ascent begins.
As the trek unfolds, the trail climbs through dense forests of pine and oak, eventually opening into the sprawling alpine meadows of Dayara Thach. Known for its vibrant wildflowers and panoramic views, Dayara is the quintessential Himalayan campsite.
By Day 3 and 4, the landscape shifts toward the dramatic. From the base at Litham, trekkers embark on a challenging acclimatization hike to the sacred Chandranahan Lake. Perched at 4,260 meters, this glacial tarn remains snow-bound for much of the year and serves as the source of the Pabbar River. The sight of the lake nestled within a jagged stone amphitheater is often cited as the trek’s spiritual highlight.
This trek reaches its crescendo on Day 6. Starting from the high camp at Dhunda, trekkers navigate a steep, technical ascent over snowfields and moraine to reach the summit of Buran Ghati. The pass offers a breathtaking 360-degree vista: behind lies the green Pabbar Valley, while ahead wait the stark, towering peaks of the Kinnaur range.