Gunji is a remote village located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, near the India-China border. It lies in the scenic Himalayan region and serves as a base for several high-altitude treks and border explorations. Many travelers visit Gunji for its natural beauty and strategic location.

This guide explains the main ways to reach Gunji, including road and trekking options, along with practical travel advice. You will learn about transport modes, step-by-step planning, and what to expect on arrival, helping you prepare well for this unique journey.

Getting from Major Cities to Gunji – Main Options

Train

Gunji does not have a railway station due to its remote Himalayan location. The nearest major railway stations are far away, so train travel is only suitable for reaching nearby cities before continuing by road or trekking.

• The closest major railway station is Kathgodam, about 350 km from Gunji, well connected to Delhi and other northern cities with frequent trains, including express and superfast services.

• From Kathgodam, you must take a bus or taxi to Pithoragarh, which is around 150 km and takes 5–6 hours on hilly roads, as no direct trains serve this route.

• Train travel is comfortable and economical for long-distance segments but requires multiple changes and additional road travel to reach Gunji.

• Booking tickets via IRCTC is recommended well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer and festivals, to secure seats on popular trains to Kathgodam.

Bus

Buses are a common way to reach Gunji from nearby towns, but direct bus services to Gunji are limited. Most travelers use buses to Pithoragarh or Dharchula and then continue by taxi or shared jeep.

• State-run buses from Delhi and Dehradun reach Pithoragarh daily, taking around 12–14 hours, with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹900 depending on bus type and season.

• From Pithoragarh, you can find shared jeeps or local buses to Dharchula, about 70 km away, which takes 3–4 hours on mountainous roads with scenic views but narrow stretches.

• From Dharchula, taxis or shared vehicles can take you to Gunji, approximately 40 km further, requiring 2–3 hours of travel on rough roads, especially during monsoon when landslides are common.

• Bus frequency reduces significantly in winter due to snow and road closures, so plan accordingly and check local schedules before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Gunji is an adventurous option for experienced drivers comfortable with mountain roads. It offers flexibility but requires careful planning due to challenging terrain and weather.

• The route from Delhi or Dehradun to Gunji covers about 600 km via NH9 and NH309A, passing through Haldwani, Pithoragarh, and Dharchula, with travel time around 18–20 hours including breaks.

• Road conditions vary; major highways are well maintained, but the last 40 km to Gunji involve narrow, winding roads with steep climbs and occasional landslides, especially during monsoon.

• Toll plazas are present on NH9 and NH309A; expect to pay tolls totaling around ₹300–₹500 one way, depending on the vehicle type.

• Fuel stations are available up to Dharchula, but beyond that, fuel options are limited; carry extra fuel or plan refills carefully.

• Driving permits may be required near border areas; check with local authorities in Pithoragarh or Dharchula before proceeding to Gunji.

Trekking

Gunji is a gateway for several trekking routes, including the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Trekking is suitable for adventure travelers and pilgrims prepared for high-altitude conditions.

• The trek from Dharchula to Gunji covers about 40 km and takes 2–3 days depending on pace and weather, passing through forested and mountainous terrain with basic rest stops.

• Local guides and porters are recommended for safety and navigation, especially during the monsoon or winter seasons when trails can be slippery or snow-covered.

• Accommodation options on the trek are limited to small guesthouses or campsites; carrying essential gear and food supplies is important.

• Permits and permissions may be required for trekking near border areas; arrange these through local tourism offices or authorized agencies in Pithoragarh.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan helps first-time travelers reach Gunji smoothly, covering transport, permits, and local arrangements.

• Book train tickets to Kathgodam early via IRCTC to secure a comfortable seat for the long journey from your city.

• From Kathgodam, take a bus or hire a taxi to Pithoragarh; confirm bus schedules in advance as frequency varies seasonally.

• Arrange local transport from Pithoragarh to Dharchula by shared jeep or taxi; shared vehicles are economical but may be crowded during peak travel times.

• Obtain any necessary permits for travel near the border at Pithoragarh or Dharchula; carry valid ID and photocopies to avoid delays.

• Hire a local taxi or join a group vehicle from Dharchula to Gunji; roads can be rough, so choose experienced drivers familiar with the terrain.

• If trekking, book a local guide and plan overnight stays in advance; carry sufficient warm clothing and water purification tablets for safety.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry sufficient bottled water and avoid drinking tap water to prevent stomach issues common in remote Himalayan areas.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber only up to Dharchula; beyond that, rely on local transport arranged through trusted sources.

• Pack light but include warm clothes, rain gear, and sturdy shoes, as weather can change quickly even in summer.

• Book bus and train tickets well in advance during summer and festival seasons to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Be cautious of landslides and roadblocks during monsoon (July–September); check weather and road conditions daily before traveling.

• Keep your valuables secure and avoid traveling alone on isolated roads, especially after dark, for safety reasons.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Gunji is from May to October when the weather is mild and roads are mostly clear. Winters are harsh with heavy snowfall, making travel difficult.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains and landslides, causing delays and road closures, so plan carefully if traveling during this period.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Navratri when transport is crowded and accommodation is scarce.

• Early morning departures are advisable to avoid afternoon fog and landslide risks on mountain roads.

• Winter months (December to February) see snow blocking roads beyond Dharchula, so trekking or driving is not recommended then.

• Summer months (May to June) offer pleasant weather but expect increased tourist traffic on weekends and holidays.

Arrival at Gunji & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Gunji, you will find a small village with limited facilities but warm local hospitality. The area is quiet and peaceful, ideal for nature lovers and trekkers.

Local transport options are minimal; walking is common within the village. Accommodation includes guesthouses and basic lodges, so booking in advance during peak season is advisable. Prepaid taxis or shared jeeps are not available in Gunji, so plan your return transport carefully.

Conclusion

Reaching Gunji requires a combination of train, bus, taxi, or trekking, depending on your starting point and travel preferences. The most efficient way is to take a train to Kathgodam, then use road transport via Pithoragarh and Dharchula, followed by a taxi or trek to Gunji. This route balances comfort and accessibility while allowing you to enjoy the scenic Himalayan journey.

Plan your trip carefully by booking tickets and permits in advance, checking weather and road conditions, and preparing for limited facilities in Gunji. With proper planning and local guidance, you can confidently explore this beautiful and remote part of Uttarakhand.