Article Published On - 16-04-2025
Gunas Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh, often compared with Buran Ghati Trek, is known for its technical difficulty and rugged terrain. At 4,800m above sea level, this pass connects the Pabbar Valley and the Sangla Valley. Sangla Valley can be reached via the Buran Ghati Trek from Janglik. Along this path are lush forests of oaks and pine, beautiful camping spots abounding with flowers in bloom and lush meadows, not to mention Chandranahan Lake with its winding streams. Gunas Pass requires skill with rope-fixing as well as proficiency with appropriate equipment due to its steep inclines, so only experienced trekkers should attempt its ascent—it is both strenuous and demanding! Gunas Pass is one of the lesser-travelled routes due to its altitude and difficult conditions. Weather changes create additional dangers, especially before monsoon season when snow deepens on the path—ideal times to undertake your Gunas Pass Trek are between May–June and September–October for optimal conditions. Please read further for more details about this incredible trek.
Day 1: 150 km Drive from Shimla to Janglik.
Meet in Shimla around 8 am to prepare for a journey from Shimla to Janglik along a varied forest terrain known as P. Along this stretch of road are charming Himachal homes as well as terraced fields of wheat. While approaching Chirgaon be prepared for rough roads as we will cross over Pabbar river near Tonglu and ascend back up toward Janglik; total travel time should take 8-9 hours.
Day 2: From Janglik to Dayara (11,000 Feet)
Travel through the village homes and reach our campsite on the other side in just thirty minutes. Although the initial ascent may be rough, once higher up, make sure to stop and admire the incredible views, which include Janglik and Tonglu’s gardens, as you find respite from the heat after your strenuous climb. Our trek weaves between forests numerous times until finally arriving at our campsite, where we spend the night. Here, you will have ample opportunity to make this all-nighter truly yours!
Day 3: From Dayara to Litham (11.880 Feet).
Wake early to witness the sun’s golden light cast over the meadow’s grasses and sip hot tea while taking in all the sights – this day’s trek will mainly encompass meadows, forests, and vibrant streams. Gunas Pass is reached via meadows, crossing over a river for spectacular views of the Dhauladhar range and moving onto stunning woodland with the Bhoj tree (Silver Birch). Continue until we come upon another stream which allows us to catch a glimpse of Litham. Once again, we cross through an idyllic meadow before crossing Chandranahan Stream, before finally arriving at our camping spot for the evening. Litham is an idyllic campsite offering views over Chandranahan waterfalls and Lake, as well as Buran Ghati on its western border and Gunas Pass on its right – everything needed for an exciting adventure ahead! Get your tent out for this thrilling journey tomorrow.
Day 4: Litham to Chandranahan Lake (13,000ft), then back to Litham in approximately four-five hours.
Chandranahan Lake lies deep within the mountains and is replenished by melting snow from nearby mountains, making its trip exciting and fulfilling. To get there you must follow a river from Litham camping area until it reaches the summit of its ridge, before following it downstream towards an unforgettable waterfall where Chandranahan Lake awaits us – making this short excursion an excellent chance to prepare ourselves for more demanding journeys ahead.
Day 5: from Litham to Dunda (13.550 Feet).
Head north-east along the Pabbar River that originates on Buran Ghati slopes and Khubrini Thach until reaching Dunda Thach at the foot of Mountain Pass. Continue through Khubrini Thach until arriving at Dunda Thach, where trees form a forest around it, and climb the rockface towards Dunda Thach, situated below its foothills.
Day 6: From Dunda to Rankhona.
Today, we will begin trekking from Dunda towards Rankhona at the top of Gunas Pass and settle into our beds as soon as possible.
Day 7 From Rankhona to Soraden Lake (138080 Feet), via Gunas Pass (15800 Feet).
Today we will begin our trek in the early morning, crossing Gunas Pass before noon – covered with snow and its ascent requires ropes for safety – before descending into Soraden Lake or potentially setting up camp at Ronti Gad if time allows.
Day 8: Soraden Lake/Ronti Gad to Sangla (8800 Feet). Drive back to Shimla (230 km).
On our final day of trekking, our journey ends with a dramatic drop. Ascending toward Kinner Kailash ranges rewards us with stunning vistas that can bring out your inner photographer. Travelling down, we catch our first glimpses of human presence from far away: ancient stone structures, lush pastures dotted with grazing chupas, charming village farms, orchards, and green fields as an oasis from snow-covered mountains we have become accustomed to. Sangla should take around an hour of driving before turning back towards Shimla late into the evening. So be sure that your accommodation plans are well in advance.
By Air: Nearest Airport to Dharamshala via Ghera: Gaggal Airport of Dharamshala
By Drive: Ghera Village lies less than an hour’s drive away from Dharamshala on an accessible road.
Gunas Pass Trek can best be experienced between late May and early July (monsoon season) and mid-September until early October (post monsoon).
Operations Manager
Nanda Rawat holds a Master’s degree in Tourism & Hospitality and brings over 16 years of experience in adventure and leisure travel. He has led multiple Himalayan expeditions, contributed to ATOAI, and is trained in first aid by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation. A strong supporter of sustainable and ethical tourism, he plays a key role at Trekup India. Write to him at: nanda@trekupindia.com
