A thrilling high-altitude border crossing connecting the apple valleys of Harsil in Garhwal with Chitkul in the Kinnaur valley of Himachal Pradesh across a 5,282m pass.
The Lamkhaga Pass Trek is one of the most adventurous trans-Himalayan cross-border expeditions in northern India. Rising to 5,282 meters, this pass connects the picturesque village of Harsil in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district with Chitkul — the last Indian village in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur valley.
The trail follows the raging Jalandhari Gad river through thick deodar forests, alpine bugyals like Lal Devta and Kyarkoti, and across immense snowfields and glacier snouts.
The crossing of Lamkhaga Pass is a serious technical undertaking across steep ice slopes and razor ridges, followed by a dramatic descent along the Baspa River into Himachal Pradesh.
Trekkers are reminded to stay properly hydrated with a minimum of 3-4 liters of water daily. Uttarakhand forest regulations strictly forbid single-use plastics and campfires outside designated grounds. Always pack out non-biodegradable waste.
Along the ridgelines and summit ascents of Lamkhaga Pass Trek, trekkers are treated to sweeping views of legendary Garhwal & Kumaon summits:
Drive along Bhagirathi to the apple valley of Harsil.
Trek along Jalandhari Gad into remote wilderness.
Ascend to the beautiful alpine meadows of Kyarkoti.
Trek through boulder scree past ITBP post.
High valley trekking along glacier moraines.
Camp on snowfields beneath the pass.
Epic technical crossing into Himachal Pradesh.
Descent along the sparkling Baspa river.
Arrive in Chitkul village in Kinnaur and transfer.
Trek completion.
Proper layering and alpine gear are critical for comfort and survival at high altitudes:
The trailhead for Lamkhaga Pass Trek originates from Harsil in Uttarkashi district (Garhwal region).
Uttarakhand (Harsil in Garhwal) and Himachal Pradesh (Chitkul in Kinnaur).
5,282 meters (17,329 feet).
Yes, Inner Line Permits from the District Magistrate of Uttarkashi and ITBP clearances are strictly required.
Challenging Expedition. Requires prior high-altitude pass experience and technical rope skills.
Starts at Harsil (Uttarakhand) and finishes at Chitkul (Himachal Pradesh).
It was first crossed by Marco Pallis in 1933 and opened for regulated civilian expeditions in recent decades.