How Difficult is the Buran Ghati Trek?

How Difficult is the Buran Ghati Trek?

The Buran Ghati Trek is an absolute favourite among our trekkers. And it’s not without reason. It is picture-perfect, almost as if the best sections of India’s treks have been woven together into one piece.

But a lot of people wonder about the Buran Ghati trek difficulty.
I’m not surprised. You do cross a mountain pass, climb up to 15,000 feet, and even have a snow wall descent. There’s also the adventure of rappelling down from the pass.

Here’s the good news — it’s not as difficult as it sounds.
We rate the Buran Ghati trek difficulty level as moderate-difficult.

Watch this quick video to get a good overview of the difficulty of the trek. But don’t stop there — the article dives much deeper. I’d definitely recommend giving it a read. Towards the end, you’ll also find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the trek.

Starting at High Altitude

You start the trek at Janglik, which is at 9,200 feet. That’s quite high. Most basecamps start at 6,000 to 7,000 feet.
Starting this high is a challenge in itself. It puts your body under pressure from the start and demands that you prepare for high-altitude conditions.

Climbing to 15,000 Feet

From Dayara, you climb to over 15,000 feet. That’s a big Buran Ghati Trek elevation and difficulty factor — you gain altitude quickly in just a few days.
This makes the trek feel intense, so a good fitness level required for Buran Ghati is essential. Both physical and mental preparation help you enjoy the Himalayan crossover trek without struggle.

Snow in May and June

If you trek in May or June, expect a lot of snow on the terrain of Buran Ghati trek. Snow makes the trail more challenging, requiring careful footing.
We provide microspikes for grip, but you’ll still need to tread cautiously. If you’re unsure, ask your trek leader for help — you’ll always have a technical team to guide you.

The Boulder Section

After the Buran Ghati pass crossing, you encounter a boulder section. In May, snow may cover this section, but by June or later, the boulders are exposed. Walking over big rocks demands strong legs and balance.

The Snow Wall Descent & Rappelling Section

The famous snow wall descent at Buran Ghati is often a highlight. Many trekkers think rappelling down the Buran Ghati wall is difficult, but it’s not.
You’ll be safely harnessed, belayed by our technical team, and lowered gently. You don’t need prior technical skill — just follow the guide’s instructions and enjoy the experience.

High Altitude is Always Demanding

At altitude, every step feels more effortful. If you can do 15 steps easily in the plains, expect to manage 10 here. This is why fitness training for high altitude treks is important before attempting Buran Ghati.

Is Buran Ghati safe for first-time trekkers?

Yes — Buran Ghati for beginners is possible if you prepare well. Focus on stamina, leg strength, and cardio fitness. You should also have the right trekking gear for Buran Ghati — good shoes, layers, and other essentials to keep you comfortable in changing weather.

Final Thoughts

The Buran Ghati Trek is a thrilling blend of meadows, forests, snow, and adventure. It has challenges, but with the right preparation, it’s very doable — even for first-time trekkers.
Train well, pack the essentials for Buran Ghati trek, and enjoy one of the most stunning Himalayan crossover treks out there.

FAQs on Buran Ghati Trek Difficulty and Preparation

1. What is the Buran Ghati trek difficulty level?
We rate the Buran Ghati trek as moderate-difficult. It involves starting at a high altitude, a quick ascent to 15,000 ft, crossing a mountain pass, and navigating snow or boulders depending on the season.

2. What fitness level is required for Buran Ghati?
You should be able to jog 5 km in 32 minutes consistently and do strength exercises such as squats and planks. High-altitude trekking requires strong lungs, endurance, and mental preparation.

3. How challenging is the Buran Ghati pass crossing?
The pass crossing involves a steep snow wall descent followed by boulder sections. While it looks dramatic, it’s made safe with ropes, harnesses, and guidance from the technical team.

4. What is the terrain of the Buran Ghati trek like?
The trek takes you through dense forests, alpine meadows, snowy slopes, rocky boulder sections, and finally over the high-altitude pass — making it one of the most diverse Himalayan crossover treks. 

5. What is the snow wall descent at Buran Ghati?
The snow wall descent is a steep section right after the pass crossing. You rappel down a 400m ice wall with ropes and harnesses, under the guidance of experienced trek leaders. It’s thrilling and one of the unique adventures of Buran in summer.

6. How should I prepare for the Buran Ghati trek?
Start training at least 8 weeks before the trek. Include cardio for stamina, strength training for leg power, and hikes or stair climbing to simulate trekking conditions. Aim to run at 5km consistently. You must aim to cover this distance in 32 mins. Click here to get a more detailed fitness guide.

7. What trekking gear do I need for Buran Ghati?
You’ll need sturdy trekking shoes, layered clothing for varying temperatures, a backpack with rain cover, gloves, headlamp, and personal essentials. Technical gear like microspikes and harnesses will be provided by Indiahikes when required.

8. What are the essentials for the Buran Ghati trek?
Apart from standard trekking gear, pack sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, water bottles, energy snacks, and warm layers. Always carry a waterproof jacket and quick-dry clothing. Click here to get a Buran Ghati trekking gear checklist.