◐ Shoulder season — possible with care

Kuari Pass Trek in January

Weather, temperatures, packing and honest advice — from the team that runs this trail.

The quick answer

January is a shoulder month for Kuari Pass. The core season is Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Mar, Apr, so conditions can work with the right preparation — but check with our team about your specific dates. The trek runs 6 days from Joshimath, Chamoli, reaching 12,516 ft at its highest point, and is graded Easy-Moderate (2/5). The fee is ₹7,500 + 5% GST with permits, meals, camping and certified trek leaders included.

Why this window works: September to December offers post-monsoon clarity for the trek's signature Nanda Devi views; March–April adds spring snow and rhododendron bloom on the Curzon Trail. January sits at the edge of this window, so conditions vary year to year — check with our team for your dates.

Weather & trail conditions in January

Expect snow on the upper sections of the trail and frozen water sources near camps. Micro-spikes and gaiters (provided on our snow treks) become essential above the snowline, and daylight hours are short — days start early and end early. On Kuari Pass, expect daytime temperatures around 8°C on the trail and roughly -8°C at the highest camps after dark in January.

January in the Himalayas

Daytime

~8°C

Night at camp

~-8°C

Highest point

12,516 ft

Grade

Easy-Moderate

What to pack for January

✓ Thermal base layers (top and bottom) — never cotton
✓ A fleece mid-layer plus a padded jacket (rentable at ₹499)
✓ Woollen cap, neck gaiter and two pairs of gloves
✓ High-ankle waterproof trekking shoes with woollen socks
✓ Sunscreen and sunglasses — snow doubles the UV

Don't own the gear? Rent shoes, jackets and more on our rentals page — sanitised after every trek.

Booking notes for January

Republic Day long weekends fill up 4–6 weeks ahead — book early if your dates are fixed. The best months for Kuari Pass are Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Mar, Apr.

Frequently asked

Is January a good time for the Kuari Pass trek?

January is a shoulder month for Kuari Pass. The core season is Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Mar, Apr, so conditions can work with the right preparation — but check with our team about your specific dates.

How cold is Kuari Pass in January?

Plan for daytime temperatures around 8°C and nights near -8°C at the higher camps. Our sleeping bags are rated for well below these temperatures.

Can beginners do Kuari Pass in January?

Yes — Kuari Pass is graded Easy-Moderate, one of our most beginner-friendly trails. That said, prefer the Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Mar, Apr window for the best first experience.