The Borasu Pass Trek is one of the most thrilling high-altitude treks in Uttarakhand, offering adventurers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and challenging terrain. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, this trek connects Har Ki Dun Valley to Bali Pass and finally opens into the stunning Borasu Pass, providing trekkers with breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine glacial streams.
Starting from Osla or Sankri village, the trek winds through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron, gradually giving way to wide, open meadows adorned with wildflowers during summer. Along the way, trekkers encounter traditional Garhwali villages, ancient shrines, and the warm hospitality of local shepherds, which adds a cultural dimension to the adventure.
Reaching the Borasu Pass Trek involves a combination of road travel and trekking, as it is located in the remote high-altitude regions of the Garhwal Himalayas. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach the starting point and navigate the trek:
1. By Air
The nearest airport to the Borasu Pass region is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, approximately 220 km away from the typical starting point at Sankri Village.
From the airport: Travelers can hire a private taxi or book shared cabs to reach Dehradun → Mussoorie → Sankri, which takes roughly 9–10 hours by road.
Tips: Pre-book a reliable vehicle or taxi service, as mountain roads can be narrow and challenging, especially during the monsoon season.
2. By Train
The nearest major railway station is Dehradun Railway Station, well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities.
From Dehradun: Travelers can hire a private taxi or take a state-run bus toward Sankri via Tehri, Uttarkashi, and Mori, which is the base for most Borasu Pass treks.
Duration: Approximately 10–12 hours by road from Dehradun to Sankri.
3. By Road
Sankri, the main base village for the Borasu Pass Trek, is accessible by road from Dehradun, Rishikesh, or Haridwar:
Dehradun → Sankri: ~220 km | 9–10 hours
Rishikesh → Sankri: ~210 km | 9–10 hours
Haridwar → Sankri: ~230 km | 9–11 hours
Road travel tips:
Mountain roads can be winding and slow; travel with experienced drivers.
Local taxis and private car hires through Hodophile Tour Travel ensure safe and comfortable travel.
It’s advisable to start early in the day to reach Sankri before sunset.
4. Trekking to Borasu Pass
Once in Sankri Village, the actual trek begins:
Sankri → Osla → Seema → Borasu Pass: The trek spans approximately 60–65 km over 7–9 days.
Trekkers pass through dense oak and rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, rivers, and high-altitude ridges.
Acclimatization: Spending a day in Sankri and gradually ascending to intermediate camps like Osla and Seema is recommended to prevent altitude sickness.
5. Local Assistance and Guides
Hiring a local trekking guide through Hodophile ensures safe navigation, local insights, and assistance with camping and meals.
Porters or mule services are available for carrying luggage and camping equipment, making the trek more comfortable.
Best Time to Start
May to June: Snow-free trails and clear skies.
September to October: Crisp weather, autumn colors, and stable trekking conditions.
1. Sankri Village (0 km)
The main base for Borasu Pass Trek, surrounded by lush forests and alpine meadows.
Provides accommodation, local markets, and trekking gear rental.
2. Osla Village (~6 km from Sankri)
A scenic hamlet on the trek route.
Offers panoramic views of surrounding Himalayan peaks and small streams.
3. Seema (~12 km from Sankri)
A high-altitude meadow with lush greenery and camp sites.
Excellent spot for photography and birdwatching.
4. Har Ki Dun (~20 km from Sankri)
A picturesque valley known for its pristine beauty and ancient villages.
Popular for treks, camping, and exploring Himalayan flora and fauna.
5. Kedarkantha Base (~50 km from Sankri)
A famous trekking peak nearby, ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
Offers spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and winter snowfall.
6. Ruinsara Tal (~15 km from Seema)
A glacial lake that is a short detour from the Borasu Pass trail.
Known for crystal-clear waters and surrounding alpine meadows.
7. Saru Village (~8 km from Osla)
Traditional Garhwali village with local culture and cuisine.
Provides an insight into rural Himalayan life.
Arrive at Sankri, the base village for Borasu Pass Trek, via road from Dehradun, Rishikesh, or Haridwar.
Check into a local guesthouse or homestay.
Explore the village, interact with locals, and enjoy views of surrounding mountains.
Overnight stay in Sankri for acclimatization.
Begin the trek towards Osla Village, passing through dense oak and pine forests.
Trek along small streams and footpaths connecting traditional Garhwali villages.
Set up camp at Osla, enjoy sunset over snow-capped peaks, and stargaze at night.
Trek through lush alpine meadows with rhododendron blooms in spring.
Arrive at Seema, a serene meadow ideal for camping.
Explore the surroundings, photograph scenic landscapes, and relax near streams.
Overnight stay in tents.
Ascend gradually towards Borasu Pass at approximately 4,500 meters altitude.
Witness panoramic views of peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak.
Set up camp near the pass, enjoy sunset views, and take photographs.
Overnight camping at high altitude; ensure proper acclimatization.
Descend slightly towards Ruinsara Tal, a glacial lake nestled amidst meadows.
Enjoy nature walks around the lake, birdwatching, and photography.
Camp near the lake and relax amid serene surroundings.
Begin the return journey to Seema, passing through previously explored meadows and streams.
Enjoy the changing scenery during descent and revisit favorite spots for photography.
Overnight stay in Seema.
Trek back to Sankri Village, completing the Borasu Pass loop.
Celebrate the successful trek with the trekking group and local community.
Overnight stay in Sankri or begin road journey back to your onward destination.
Depart from Sankri to Dehradun, Rishikesh, or Haridwar by road.
Optional stops at local attractions like Har Ki Dun Valley or small Himalayan villages en route.
- Acclimatize properly at Sankri before ascending to higher altitudes.
- Carry warm clothing, trekking shoes, and camping gear.
- Hire a local guide or trekking company for safety, navigation, and support.
- Bring water, snacks, and first-aid essentials.
- Check weather forecasts before starting the trek, as high-altitude conditions can change rapidly.
The Borasu Pass Trek is a high-altitude trek in the Garhwal Himalayas, connecting Har Ki Dun Valley to Bali Pass and culminating at Borasu Pass, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and glacial streams.
The trek is moderate to moderately challenging, suitable for trekkers with some prior experience. It involves steep ascents, river crossings, and high-altitude conditions.
- May to June: Snow-free trails and clear skies.
- September to October: Autumn colors and stable weather.
- Avoid monsoon season (July–August) due to slippery trails and landslides.
- Duration: Typically 7–9 days, depending on pace and acclimatization.
- Distance: Approximately 60–65 km from Sankri to Borasu Pass and back.
- The trek begins at Sankri Village, which serves as the base camp and can be reached by road from Dehradun, Rishikesh, or Haridwar.
