The infamous Indian summer is on our heads, and the upcoming months from May to September are unlivable in the Indian plains. Temperatures soar to unbearable levels, often exceeding 40 degrees in many regions. Under such conditions, it is best to avoid the plains and spend your time in the hills, much in the fashion of the Mughals and then the Britons, who are credited with building the summer capital, Shimla. For adventure seekers, the hilly terrains of India offer a variety of trekking trails on which they can embark. Seeing the unbearable months on the horizon, we have put together a list of the best treks of varying difficulties to take in India. Take a look at the list and make a final itinerary in that group chat of friends as you head out to beat the summer.
Nestled in the heart of Uttarakhand lies the renowned Valley of Flowers Trek, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its awe-inspiring alpine meadows adorned with a kaleidoscope of vibrant flowers set against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas. This trek offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and scenic vistas. The trek's difficulty level ranges from easy to moderate, making it accessible to a wide range of adventurers. It is a 6-day, moderate-level trek located in the Chamoli district, spanning approximately 38 kilometres and requires climbing about 2,000 feet each day. The journey through this valley promises a delightful experience filled with panoramic landscapes and the chance to witness a diverse array of flora and fauna unique to this region.
Located amidst the stunning landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, the Hampta Pass Trek covers about 26 km, showcasing a diverse terrain that transitions from lush green valleys to stark, barren landscapes adorned with snow-capped peaks. The pass connects the Chandra Valley in Lahaul to the Kullu district. The trek is rated as moderate because it quickly climbs to a high altitude of 14,000 ft, starting from Manali at 6,725 ft. The trek can take 4–6 days to complete. The highlight of the trek is the exhilarating traverse of the Hampta Pass, which offers adventurers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan vistas. With a moderate difficulty level, this trek presents a balanced challenge suitable for trekkers seeking an immersive wilderness experience coupled with the thrill of conquering high-altitude terrain.
Embark on the captivating Har Ki Dun Trek in Uttarakhand. It is a 67 km valley trek in the Garhwal Himalayas that passes through beautiful villages, dense forests with wildlife, and colourful meadows. The trek usually takes 6-7 days to complete and starts from the village of Sankri. It passes through Govind National Park, famous for its wildflowers, especially orchids, and stunning forests. The trail offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and scenic Garhwalian villages. Besides, the Har Ki Dun Trek provides a unique opportunity to indulge in the rich local culture and experience the warm hospitality and traditions of the mountain communities.
Embark on the enchanting Kedarkantha Trek, renowned for its picturesque campsites nestled amidst dense pine forests while offering sweeping vistas of the snow-capped Garhwal Himalayas that grace the landscape throughout the year. This exhilarating journey covers a round-trip distance of approximately 20 kilometres, making it accessible yet rewarding for trekkers of varying experience levels. The highlight of this trek is reaching the summit of Kedarkantha, where panoramic views of the majestic Garhwal Himalayas unfold before your eyes, a scene that remains etched in memory long after the descent. The Kedarkantha Trek has a moderate difficulty level, promising an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, alpine serenity, and the thrill of conquering a mountain peak in the heart of Uttarakhand.
Experience the challenging Pin Parvati Pass Trek, spanning 110 kilometres through rugged terrain and high-altitude crossings of Himachal Pradesh. The trek starts at Kalga, ends at Mud, and crosses from the Parvati Valley to the Pin Valley at an altitude of 5,298 metres. You'll need endurance and mountaineering skills to navigate steep ascents and descents in remote, untouched wilderness. Along the way, immerse yourself in the unique culture of remote Himalayan villages and experience the warmth and hospitality of locals. The reward is reaching the majestic Pin Parvati Pass, where breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys await. This trek is the ultimate Himalayan challenge for seasoned trekkers.
Embark on the captivating Bhrigu Lake Trek in Himachal Pradesh, covering a 26 km moderate round trip with moderate difficulty. The trek starts in a dense forest and ends in a large meadow with views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Good leg strength and stamina is recommended for the climb. The trail includes steep ascents and descents. You will be mesmerised by the snow-capped peaks, verdant meadows, and the pristine Bhrigu Lake. Enjoy breathtaking vistas at every turn as you ascend through pine forests and alpine pastures. The Bhrigu Lake Trek offers adventure and natural splendour, perfect for unforgettable memories in the heart of the Himalayas.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Goechala Trek in Sikkim. This captivating journey covers approximately 90 kilometres round trip with a moderate difficulty level, taking around ten days to complete while starting and ending in Yuksom. The trek is considered one of the most challenging routes in Sikkim due to its high elevation and demanding landscape. However, it also offers unparalleled vistas of Mount Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak, alongside other majestic Himalayan summits. You'll traverse pristine landscapes adorned with sparkling lakes, dense rhododendron forests bursting with vibrant blooms, and dramatic mountain passes offering panoramic views at every step. The Goechala Trek is an adventure that nature enthusiasts and mountain lovers will cherish, providing an opportunity to witness the raw beauty of Sikkim's wilderness while experiencing the grandeur of the Himalayas up close.
Embark on the epic Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in Sikkim, a challenging adventure spanning approximately 220 kilometres. This adventure culminates at the base camp of the world's third-highest mountain, Mount Kanchenjunga. The trek treats you to breathtaking vistas and diverse landscapes as you traverse through remote wilderness and pristine valleys. Along the way, you will immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Sikkim, encountering lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and high-altitude meadows adorned with colourful flora. The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience for avid trekkers, offering an intimate encounter with one of the Himalayas' most revered peaks amidst awe-inspiring surroundings that leave an indelible impression on all who embark on this remarkable expedition.
Embark on the extraordinary Chadar Trek in Ladakh, a truly unique experience where you traverse across the frozen Zanskar River amidst breathtaking canyons and dramatic landscapes. This remarkable journey covers approximately 70 kilometres round trip, presenting a challenging yet exhilarating adventure. Brace yourself for sub-zero temperatures as you navigate the icy expanse, marvelling at the surreal beauty of frozen waterfalls and towering cliffs that line the frozen riverbed. The Chadar Trek offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in Ladakh's stark winter wilderness, encountering a landscape transformed by frost and ice. This trek is not just a physical journey but a profound exploration of nature's raw power and the indomitable spirit of those who brave its icy embrace, making it an unforgettable expedition for daring adventurers seeking an unmatched Himalayan experience.
Embark on the captivating Roopkund Trek in Uttarakhand, famously known as the Skeleton Lake trek. This trek unveils stunning vistas of the Himalayas and picturesque alpine meadows. The Roopkund Lake, located amidst the glacial terrain, adds an enigmatic allure to the landscape due to the human skeletal remains dating back to the 9th century. The Roopkund Trek is a challenging adventure, covering approximately 53 kilometres round trip with difficult terrain, including steep ascents and descents. As you trek through dense forests and high-altitude landscapes, you'll be rewarded with panoramic mountain views and a unique glimpse into the region's historical and natural mysteries. This expedition is not just about conquering a mountain peak but delving into the intriguing stories and unparalleled beauty that define the Roopkund Trek. It is an unforgettable quest for intrepid explorers seeking both adventure and discovery in the heart of the Himalayas.