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Out of so many Himalayan treks, it is never easy to pick one. We have provided the crucial information you might need to choose your next trekking location.
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Home to the highest peaks on the planet, the Himalayas are vast - stretching across India, Bhutan, and Nepal finding its beginning and end in Pakistan and China. While Everest makes most of the headlines, multiple peaks are striking and exclusive in their characteristics, existing here alone and cannot be replicated in any place in the world, especially when you include mountain ranges west of the Indus – the Pamir, Hindu Kush, and the Karakoram.
We're lucky to be born in a country that hosts this majestic range. At some point in life, we've all wanted to trek the Himalayas. Some of us have made that thought a reality and some of us are still contemplating. Either way, there's always more to learn and more peaks to trek, the Himalayan list isn't really exhaustive. The purpose of this article is to try and address some of the questions you may have in your mind regarding Himalaya trekking.
The tall stranding peaks have always been a home to wanderers, seeking new routes and experiences. From short trekking trails for beginners to some of the highest mountains in the world, trekking in the Indian Himalayas offer a kick of adrenaline like no other destination in this world.
We've tried to list down some of the Best Himalayan Treks according to us (however it was quite difficult to pick and choose because all of them are absolutely gorgeous and lovely). However, narrowing down always helps and we truly hope that you're able to take some good insights from here. Be sure that we've covered all types from the eastern Himalayas to the west covering ridges, lakes, valleys and more. Are you ready to begin your epic "trek the Himalayas" journey?
The experience of Chadar can be described in one word- Surreal, but the trek is rich with elements of its own. It isn't just the mesmerizing landscape, mind-numbing temperature, or the thrilling walk that makes it so phenomenal, but the simplicity of Zanskari people and their adaptability and acceptance of the harsh challenges is what captivates most Trekkers. As far as the route history is concerned, the formation of thick ice during winters on the Zanskar river facilitates the inhabitants to use it as a bridge to connect to the other side and gather supplies for the coming months. As the story goes, trekking through Chadar was so risky and unpredictable back in the days that every villager would make sure to clear his debts and dues before starting the trek, just in case, the river swallows them during the journey.
Altitude: 3383 m
Difficulty: Difficult
Best time to visit: Mid Jan, End Feb
Read about Akshat Jain's Experience of Chadar
Beas Kund is the place where the mighty river Beas originates. The river starts and flows from the glaciers through the scenic meadows which are surrounded by mountains. From Beas Kund, you can see the Shitidhar, friendship peak, and the Hanuman Tibba.
You can easily spot the Dhauladhar and Pirpanjal Mountain Ranges with the help of Beas. On one side, there's the Pir Panjal Mountain Ranges and on the other side, there's the Dhauladhar Mountain Ranges. The Beas Kund trek is rich with flora and fauna. Beas Kund is also a favorite spot for shepherds as you can see them camp around with herds of sheep and watchdogs.
You feel a sense of purity of the environment that exists in its virgin glory. The water there is the purest as it melts from the glaciers.
If you are wondering which can be the best Himalayan treks in may 2020 then this trek is the best.
Altitude: 3700 m
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best time to visit: Mid May to Mid Oct
Read Jeslinz John Experience of Beas Kund
Har Ki Dun is a delight for trekkers who have ventured out to trek the Himalayas both in Summer and Winter. Enriched with a variety of flora and fauna, it offers a stunning view of snow-capped mountains, dominated by Mt.Swargarohini. The trek from Sankri to Osla has a variety of trees, animals, plants, etc. The Govind Wildlife sanctuary is on the way where you can spot a lot of animals like Parakeets, Vultures, etc. There are a lot of pretty campsites that make the trek a memorable one. The view of the sunrise is probably one of the most beautiful sunrises you'll ever see. You also get to pitch your tent by the river or in the middle of the valley and every night you end up seeing billions of stars.
Altitude: 6,200m
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best time to visit: April to June
Read Dheeraj Tanwars Experience of Har Ki Dun
In your plan to trek the Himalayas, don't miss out on this one. Even though it's comparatively easier, it's one of the most stunning experiences. Chandrashila is a well-loved trek for mountain go-ers of all kinds which flourish with colorful blossoms and rich green meadows, rhododendrons, red and pink and a gallery of stunning snow peaks. On the way to the Chandrashila Peak, one can encounter flocks of peacocks and herds of deer. The entire route is by the enchanting Deoriatal lake. Chandrashila is famous for its majestic sunrise. When the sun slowly comes up, the entire sky clears up to lighten your face with the golden rays of the red sun. The lower hills beside the peak clear up with a full view of distant abandoned houses and the Nandadevi and Kedar Peaks. It's no less than a miracle.
Altitude: 4,000 m
Difficulty: Easy
Best time to visit: Apr - June
Read Gokul's Experience of Chandrashila
The Kashmir Great Lakes trek, also known as the “The Prettiest Trek in India” has 7 majestic high altitude treks. It's truly a beautiful place for natural beauty and adventure. Trailing through the Maple trees, you'll be exposed to a beautiful view of the nearby villages downhill which includes the Sonamarg village. Some of the spectacular lakes are Gadsarm, Krishnasar, Gangabal, and Vishansar. These lakes have a mythological origin to it named after gods and have interesting stories associated with them.
Altitude: 4191
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Best time to visit: June to Sep
Read Dev's experience in Kashmir Great Lakes
With high and dark pine forests, glacier valleys, river-side camping and much more, Hampta Pass is a complete package. The route includes 40+ sharp bends with a picturesque view of Manali and Kullu Valley. This is followed by short walks through pine forests. The sight and sound of the rivers fill the air which runs vertically beside the rocks making the mountains look carved with a mountain knife.
The long walk toward Hamta is a challenging ascent...through boulders and cold weather followed by a river crossing which literally puts your motivation to test. But the panoramic view of waterfalls and the changing colours of the mountain during sunrise keeps your motivation unshaken.
Altitude: 4,270 m
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best time to visit: Mid June to Mid Oct
Read Bhushan's expereince in Hampta Pass
Valley of flowers as the name suggests is a vibrant and splendid national park with multiple beds of full-blooms, charming meadows of alpine flowers. Located in North Chamoli in the state of Uttarakhand, it does qualify as a legendary trek that's famous across the world. It begins at the holy city of Haridwar and continues along the side of the river Pushpavati.
Altitude: 6750 m
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best time to visit: June to Oct
Want to explore treks in April 2020 in Indian Himalayas? Then this is a must visit place.
Sandakphu truly qualifies as the most beautiful trek of Eastern Himalayas. With a view of the Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world also known as the "Laughing Buddha" by the locals is a real spectacular trail. Starting from Manibhanjan, the entire route runs through the Singalila National Park which is enriched with oak, bamboo, fir trees, alpine forests, and blooming rhododendrons if you happen to be there during spring! One notable feature of Sandakphu Trek is the opportunity of discovering a rich culture of the very fantastic and intriguing Himalayan folks.
Altitude: 3,636 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: April to May
Fringed with pine trees and falling snow, Kedarkanta is one of the most sought after snow treks in India creating what you call a fantastic pictorial view. The trek is considered relatively easier and while it's gorgeous in the summer, it's lovely and completely covered with snow in winter. Kedarkanta also provides a great opportunity to feel the experience of the life of remote villages of Uttarakhand Himalayas. This is the best Himalayan trek in March.
Altitude: 3800 m
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best time to visit: Dec to March
The magic of Brahmatal is in its lake, deep and shadowy forests of oaks, rhododendrons, snow-covered meadows, and lakeside camping. A lot of the Roopkund trek can be seen from Brahmatal including a fantastic view of Ali Bugyal, Bedni Bugyal & Junargali. Expect to walk through conifer, cedar, oak and fir forests for the maximum of the route. We wouldn't do justice to the trek if we didn't talk about the experience of lakeside camping which if visited in winter, you could just be sleeping on top of the softest flakes of snow.
Altitude: 3688m
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best time to visit: Mid Nov to March
The Goechela Trek, another gem of the east, an absolute classic is soaked in the culture and spirit of Sikkim overlooking the massive structure of Kanchenjunga. If you're looking for motivation, one should just visit Goechela for its striking sunrises and sunsets. It's also marked by beautiful orchards and a massive collection of flora and fauna. Don't miss out on the fluttering prayer flags that add a fantastic cultural distinction to the whole experience.
Altitude: 4940 m
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Best time to visit: April to June
Roopkund, locally known as a mystery lake is rather famous for an eerie reason - hundreds of human skeletons which is believed to belong to the Palaeolithic age found at the edge of the lake (the high altitude glacial lake). Despite this, Roopkund boasts of fantastic pictorial views to other peaks like Kedarkatha, Neelkantha, etc. The Roopkund trail is also famous for the celebration of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat which takes place every 12 years. Beware of the snow leopards, the Himalayan Black bears, and the chir pheasants.
Altitude: 5,029 m
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Best time to visit: September
Trekking in the India Himalayas includes various types of treks. Rupin Pass is one of its kind as it's a very high altitude trek and considered a high range expedition. Apart from the high altitude, trekkers are usually attracted to the diverse number of sceneries and surprise variations in trails. You can expect to encounter all types of terrain from snowy to rocky ground, water stream crossings, green meadows and also stark mountains. If you plan to attempt this trek, make sure you have sufficient stamina and fitness to undertake it.
Altitude: 4,650 m
Difficulty: Difficult
Best time to visit: May to june
We've already talked about some of the most famous treks in India but if the remote and the unknown are what attracts you then look no further than Siang Valley in Arunachal Pradesh. From pristine rivers to hanging bridges, rafting experiences and amazing campsites, Siang offers it all. Siang is in itself a joy. Experience birdsongs, sunrises, campsite conversations, bonfires and the sounds of silence.
Altitude: 2743 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: Oct, April
The Tso Lhamo, also know as Che o-lamu is the highest lake in India and the 14th highest altitude lake in the world. Located in North Sikkim, it offers a stern and solemn ambiance filling the air with a sense of isolation. The captivating blue shade of the water and a plethora of bird species adds an element of color to the environment. One can hardly recover from such severe beauty.
Altitude: 5,486 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: Oct and Nov
Out of all treks in Himalaya trekkking, the Prashar Lake Trek is a short duration trek, a perfect fit for your long weekends. Nestled in the valley of the Dhauladhar range, it runs through thick forests of pine with views of snow-capped mountains. Prashar is still a little bit of a secret of the Himalayas, not known by many boasting of a fabulous Himalayan sunrise. The lake is also held sacred to Prashar Rishi, who is known to have meditated here back then.
Altitude: 2750 m
Difficulty: Easy
Best time to visit: Dec to Feb
The Phulnara ridge is a beautiful stretch walking on a mountain ridge, a narrow elevated crest with slopes on either side. This will naturally enable you to see both sides of the mountain which are wide open to you and at the same time feel the thrill of walking on a ridge. The trail before you reach the ridge is a dark dense alpine forest of oak and pine. What makes the trail extra special is that ridge treks are extremely uncommon in our country and Phulara takes the cake for being the best.
Altitude: 2835 m
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best time to visit: March, April, May, June
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is the most popular in the Annapurna region. With stunning mountain views, rice paddies, rhododendron forests and the Annapurna Range looming in front throughout, it's quite an exclusive experience. An interesting feature of the Annapurna experience is the classic teahouses where delicious Nepali dishes are served. This trek is also known as the sanctuary trek because you trek along the protected area where a lot of unique floral and faunal species are preserved. It's considered one of the difficult ones and requires some prior trekking experience.
Altitude: 4,130 m
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Best time to visit: Feb, March, Apr, May
Triund is a small hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Situated at the foot of the Dhauladhar ranges, Triund is a part of Dharamkot. Known for its stunning view, it's full of beautiful oak trees, deodar and rhododendron all through the trail. It's a rather popular trekking destination because it's comparatively easier. The Triund Trek is not only a blissful terrain to walk amidst the beauty of handcrafted rocky pathways, small waterfalls and loads of flora and fauna, but also provides a chance to introspect in the silence.
Altitude: 2,850 m
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best time to visit: May-June, Sep-Oct
If you're out to trek the Himalayas, EBC should have already made it to your list. A lot of people worry that the Everest Base Camp trek is very hard but in all honestly it isn't as high or hard as the likes of Kilimanjaro. On the contrary, it's quite relaxing and stunningly beautiful. However, it does take a longer period in terms of acclimatization to the altitude. The trek takes 14 days from Kathmandu if you take the normal route to the base camp. The entire experience is amidst misty mountains, Tibetan prayer flags, bridges, ridges and a strong cultural exposure.
Altitude: 5,364 m
Difficulty: Difficult
Best time to visit: Feb, March, April, May
Located in the heart of Garhwal Himalayas, Har ki dun trek is one of the least explored regions where the lifestyle of local folks is not affected by civilization yet. Come to Har Ki Dun Trek and discover ancient villages that are almost 3000 years old and learn about the culture from the locals who will make you feel at home. The forests in this area are rich in wildlife and are heaven for nature lovers. Enjoy bird chirruping and get shots of beautiful birds while you soak in the fresh air. Witness a number of langoors, various species of birds, and mammals while on the trek. The Har Ki dun trek takes you through flourishing bushes, terraced fields, glaciers, fragrant orchids, and sprawling meadows. Refresh yourself with a hot cup of tea or coffee before you head out for the trek.
Altitude: 11,811 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration of this trek: Around 5 hours
Best time to visit: March to June and September to December
Nag Tibba, also known as the Serpents Peak, is the highest peak in lower Himalayas of Garhwal region near Mussoorie. This trek is a perfect weekend getaway destination for adventurers. The quaint villages and lush green forests will welcome you warmly to make you feel one with Nature. Trek to Nag Tibba has a different finishing point from a starting point and the exciting part is that there is no overlap on the trails you covered. Witness a contrasting landscape while you descend down from the summit. Nag Tibba is a perfect place for camping during spring and summers. When most of the treks will be closed because of the heavy snowfall, the gates of Nag Tibba will be still open for you, making it one of the best treks in India.
Altitude: 9,910 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration of this trek: Around 7 hours
Best time to visit: February to June and September to November
Brahma Tal is located in the depths of Uttarakhand Himalayans. It is a less discovered area, so while you are on the trek, you will see a very few people that kind of adds to its charm. Enjoy the experience of walking under a heavy canopy of rhododendron and oak trees. It’s always a surprise as to what you will be seeing when you land up on the top. Once you reach the summit, you will be filled with a rush of emotions as you’ll see the most magnificent Himalayan mountains right in front of you. What makes this climb more rewarding is the view of Mt. Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Beta Toli, and Maiktoli.
Altitude: 12,100 ft
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration of this trek: Around 4 hours
Best time to visit: November to March
Chandrashila, means moon rock, is a summit of the Tungnath located at a height of about 4,000 meters above sea level. This trek is famous as one can visit here in any season and each season provides an exclusive level of fun, thrill, and excitement. Fuel your inner adventure with this trail and fall in love with crystal white snow that blankets the mountains, birds that create good music, and forests that will make you feel closer to your inner self. The most exciting part about this trek is that it makes the view of other peaks - Nandadevi, Trisul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch and Chaukhamba peaks - accessible, along with the Himalayas.
Altitude: 12,100 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration of this trek: 3- 6 days
Best time to visit: April to June
If you’re a beginner in trekking or someone who has never trekked before but want to soak in the beauty of Himalayas, then Brighu lake trek is one of the best Himalayan treks to start with. The Bhrigu lake, an enchanting place in the lap of the magnificent Himalayas, lies in the east of the Rohtang pass. The trail to the lake takes one through lush green forests of Deodar Oak that will be a walk to remember. The view of Kullu Manali from the summit makes all the hard work of the climb rewarding. Snow clad mountains covered with floating clouds will make for a dramatic view that will be worth a perfect shot.
Altitude: 4240 m/ 14000 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Duration of this trek: 4 days
Best time to visit: October to February
Kareri lake trek, located in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the best Himalayan treks when you want to switch from your monotonous life and get closer to Nature. The Kareri Trek is formed by the flow of water bodies from the Minkiani peak. Surrounded by mountains, Alpine trees, lush forests, narrow terrains, and scenic meadows, the trek to the lake will leave you awestruck. The forests here are a mix of pines and shrubs which act as perfect hiding for some exclusive birds. When you reach the summit, experience the mesmeric appeal of the lake. It remains frozen during the wintertime that serves as the main attraction of this trek during that time.
Altitude: 11480 ft
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration of this trek: Around 6 - 7 hours
Best time to visit: May to July and September to November
Tungnath is a short and easy trek in the region of a small region known as Chopta which is a part of Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary located in Uttarakhand, India. While on the trek, you’ll have access to a clear view of sumptuous peaks of Panchachuli, Nanda Devi, Nilkanth and Kedarnath. Chopta gives a scenic view of the Himalayas. To enjoy the picturesque Rhododendron forest, come in Spring and witness the forest glow red as the flowers blossom. During wintertime, soothe your eyes with the mountains covered with snow that looks no less than heaven.
Altitude: 11,154 ft
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration of this trek: 3- 6 days
Best time to visit: April - June and October to December
The Pin Parvati Pass is a mountain pass in Himachal Pradesh, India. From dramatic landscapes to spectacular traverses to forest and verdant meadows of the Parvati Valley, there is a massive dose of beauty here in everything. The sharp contrast in landscapes, culture, flora and fauna will leave wonderstruck.
Altitude: 17,450 ft
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Duration of this trek: 10 days
Best time to visit: July - September
Mt. Kanchenjunga is one of the most beautiful trekking trails in Nepal. The trek takes you to, Mt. Kanchenjunga - one of the mountain massifs in the world. In the Tibetan language, Kanchenjunga means Five Treasures of the Great Snow. The beauty of the trek lies in the landscape that keeps changing. Witness diversifies vegetation and wildlife as you climb the summit. From pristine Rhododendron forest to walking over glaciers to interacting with locals of the remote villages, Mt Kanchenjunga Trek offers a once in a lifetime kind of experience.
Altitude: 28,169 ft
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Duration of this trek: 10 days
Best time to visit: March to May and September - November
Without a doubt, trekking in the Indian Himalayas gives you a sense of achievement and adrenaline rush. But, it is important to be safe while you trek the himalayas. Keep these simple things in mind before you head for the best Himalayan trek.
Now that we've listed down some of the best Himalayan treks, we don't see any reason for you to contemplate any further. Pack your backpacks and see where the road leads you to.
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Chadar Trek - An Unfinished Journey Embarking on a journey sets us on a fixed goal. Whether it is to climb a mighty peak or to simply reach a destination, the end is what keeps us going.
Stills from Hampta Pass - Bhushan RautWith high and dark pine forests, glacier valleys, river-side camping and much more, Hampta Pass is a complete package.
Sunrise at Chandrashila Top“The sun knocks at my door and I start another day where everything will be new, a day that will not be repeated. I am not certain about what I will find but I am certain about everything else that I am free and completely free”
Beas Kund Glacier Trek through Jeslinz Johnson EyesBeas Kund is the place where the mighty river Beas originates. The river starts and flows from the glaciers through the scenic meadows which are surrounded by mountains.
Dhaval Choksi On Everest Base Camp Via Gokyo Ri - Things Nobody Tells YouThe trek to Everest Base Camp is the ultimate bucket-list experience for any outdoor person. Check out one of Dhaval Choksi's Everest base camp experience here. Must Read!
Monsoon Hikes North - Triund in Himachal PradeshTriund is a small hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Situated at the foot of the Dhauladhar ranges, Triund is a part of Dharamkot.
Kedartal Trek - The Hidden Gem of Uttarakhand - Narrated by Kanak JoshiWe reached Kedartal at 9 am. The Lake was completely frozen and the view of the mountains from Kedartal cannot be explained in words.
Kashmir Great Lakes - Through the eyes of DevKashmir Great Lakes trek “The Prettiest Trek in India” with 7 majestic high altitude treks was merely a coincidence which made a place in the deepest part of my heart.
5 Reasons You Will Love Trekking Har Ki DunIf you're looking to trek the Himalayas for the first time, then Har Ki Dun might just be the best trek for you. Here are 5 good reasons why you love the Har Ki Dun Trek.
Treks in and around Manali: 8 Best Treks To Explore Manali trekking is one of the bests in the Himalayas. You can enjoy adventure camps, thrilling mountain biking, etc. Check out this amazing list of treks in and around Manali.
Himalaya Trekking For Beginners: A Step-by-Step GuideTrekking in the Himalayas is an adrenaline rush. These beginner tips for Himalayan trekking will come in handy whenever you go on such a trip.
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