As we all know, India is very famous for its treks. India is a vast nation with different physical traits for high-altitude treks. It also has many famous places to travel, and the sight of the Himalayas is an exciting break spot for all, mainly young fans.
Trekking in this era is becoming too famous among many youths. It helps them to leave revived and rejuvenated. It acts as a way of relaxation from busy schedules and hectic lives. Let’s read in this blog about the 15 most popular high-altitude trekking trails in India.
List of the Top 15 Most Popular High Altitude Trekking Trails in India:
1. Kinnaur Kailash Circuit Trek
This place is home to Lord Shiva; Kinnaur Kailash Circuit Trek is a perfect choice for a spiritual tour to Himachal Pradesh. According to the legends, this was the area during January Lord Shiva used to organize the meeting of all gods and goddesses.
This unique 11-day trek begins from Thangi Village near Chail, moves via scenic Charang Village, the high peak pass of Charang La standing at the cliff of 17,200 ft. above the sea level, and finally completes at the Manali via Chitkul, Tabo, and Losar.
The main highlight of this Trek is Kinner Kailash Shivling, which is about 30-40 meters wide and 79 feet high. You can have the chance to see the amazing views of the Great Himalayan Mountain range, like Mt. Rangrik and Mt. Jorkandan, from the Shivling.
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Location: Himachal Pradesh
Altitude: 5,248 meters
Best Time to Visit: May to October
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Shimla to Kalpa
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Shimla
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 11-12 days
- Trek through dense forests, meadows, and rocky terrains.
- Requires a high level of fitness and acclimatization.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Shimla, and drive to Kalpa.
- Day 2: Acclimatization day in Kalpa.
- Day 3: Trek from Kalpa to Pangi Village.
- Day 4: Trek from Pangi Village to Lambar.
- Day 5: Trek from Lambar to Charang.
- Day 6: Trek from Charang to Lalanti.
- Day 7: Trek from Lalanti to Chitkul via Charang La Pass.
- Day 8: Rest day in Chitkul.
- Day 9: Drive from Chitkul to Shimla.
2. Dzongri Trek
A great cliff that reaches about 4,000 meters above sea level, The Dzongri Trek is one of the best spots for trekking in India. This Trek is for those who do not wish to go on long and hard treks.
This beautiful Trek unravels the awe of nature at every turn, from the lush green forests of oak, maple, and rhododendron trees to sparkling streams.
Location: Sikkim
Altitude: 4,170 meters
Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Yuksom
- By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 7-8 days
- Offers stunning views of Kanchenjunga and other peaks.
- Moderate difficulty, suitable for experienced trekkers.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Yuksom.
- Day 2: Trek from Yuksom to Tshoka.
- Day 3: Trek from Tshoka to Dzongri.
- Day 4: Acclimatization day in Dzongri.
- Day 5: Trek from Dzongri to Tshoka.
- Day 6: Trek from Tshoka to Yuksom.
- Day 7: Depart from Yuksom.
3. Kuari Pass Trek
Lord Curzon, in 1905, was the first who reach the Kauri pass. It contains the peaks of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri, Trishul, Bertholi, Hathi Ghodi Parvat, Mana, and Neelkanth in the Garhwal Himalayas.
The average trekking area would be 33km, and it takes about six days to cover the whole area. This is why it is among the popular high-altitude trekking trails in India. It is a moderate type of trekking, and anyone can cover this trek.
Location: Uttarakhand
Altitude: 3,650 meters
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to November
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Joshimath
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 6-7 days
- Known for panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Moderate difficulty, ideal for beginners.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Joshimath.
- Day 2: Drive from Joshimath to Dhak, trek to Gulling.
- Day 3: Trek from Gulling to Tali Top.
- Day 4: Trek from Tali Top to Kuari Pass, return to Tali Top.
- Day 5: Trek from Tali Top to Auli, drive to Joshimath.
- Day 6: Depart from Joshimath.
4. Chopta Chandrashila Trek
Chopta Chandrashila trek high altitude trekking trails in India in the Himalayas that can take you to some high altitude religious places. This is the most famous Chopta Chandrashila trek, as it is a trek to the world’s highest Shiva temple.
Some of the lures are Deoria Tal Lake and small towns lodged in the set of the Chopta Valley. Furthermore, this hike will bring one in contact with Himalayan Monal, Hill Prinia, Golden Eagle, and Lammergeier birds.
Location: Uttarakhand
Altitude: 4,130 meters
Best Time to Visit: April to November
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Rishikesh to Chopta
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 4-5 days
- Trek through dense forests and alpine meadows.
- Suitable for all levels of trekkers.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Chopta.
- Day 2: Trek from Chopta to Tungnath and Chandrashila, and return to Chopta.
- Day 3: Depart from Chopta.
Chopta Package: 6 Nights 7 Days Rishikesh Auli Chopta Package from Dehradun
5. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
This amazing Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is situated at 13,800 ft. It is among the popular high-altitude trekking trails in India, as it offers you unique views of the numerous fields, snow-capped cliffs, and rocky empty plains.
Location: Jammu and Kashmir
Altitude: 4,200 meters
Best Time to Visit: July to September
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Srinagar to Sonamarg
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 8-9 days
- Explore pristine alpine lakes and meadows.
- Moderate to challenging, requires good fitness.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Srinagar, drive to Sonamarg.
- Day 2: Trek from Sonamarg to Nichnai.
- Day 3: Trek from Nichnai to Vishansar Lake.
- Day 4: Trek from Vishansar Lake to Gadsar.
- Day 5: Trek from Gadsar to Satsar.
- Day 6: Trek from Satsar to Gangbal.
- Day 7: Trek from Gangbal to Naranag, drive to Srinagar.
- Day 8: Depart from Srinagar.
6. Markha Valley Trek
This is one of the famous treks in Ladakh, and this Trek has two high peaks, Kang Yissay(21000 ft) and Stok Kangri(20086 ft).
The Markha Valley Trek is called the tea house trek, as lodges in parachute tents are common in most villages. The total length of the Trek is about 75 km, and the trekking is quite tricky.
Location: Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Altitude: 5,200 meters
Best Time to Visit: June to September
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Leh
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 8-9 days
- Cross high passes and remote villages.
- Moderate to challenging, suitable for experienced trekkers.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Leh.
- Day 2: Acclimatization day in Leh.
- Day 3: Drive from Leh to Chilling, trek to Skiu.
- Day 4: Trek from Skiu to Markha.
- Day 5: Trek from Markha to Thachungtse.
- Day 6: Trek from Thachungtse to Nimaling.
- Day 7: Trek from Nimaling to Shang Sumdo via Kongmaru La, drive to Leh.
- Day 8: Depart from Leh.
7. Nagalapuram Trek
Nagalapuram is the loveliest hill station situated in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Here you will find many waterfalls in this hill station. It is a belief that it is the queen of waterfalls. It isn’t easy to reach the waterfalls of Nagalapuram, and the path you take to get there also matters.
There is less difficulty trekking from the west side of the hill station than it is from the east side. People camp in the jungles at their own risk, even though camping is not allowed.
Location: Andhra Pradesh
Altitude: 1,000 meters
Best Time to Visit: November to February
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Chennai
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Chennai
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Explore waterfalls, dense forests, and scenic views.
- Easy to moderate, ideal for beginners.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Nagalapuram.
- Day 2: Trek to Nagalapuram Waterfalls and return.
- Day 3: Depart from Nagalapuram.
8. Har ki Doon Trek
Hiking in RupinPassa and Buran Ghati is often regarded as one of the best treks. In recent years, Har ki Dun and Ruinsara have become Uttarakhand’s most famous treks.
You’ll enjoy the ancient culture, the mountain views, and the flowing river streams along the way at Har ki Dun. The moderate difficulty makes it an excellent place for adventure, especially compared to other summer treks.
Location: Uttarakhand
Altitude: 3,566 meters
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to November
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Dehradun to Sankri
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 7-8 days
- Known as the Valley of Gods with lush greenery and mountain views.
- Moderate difficulty, suitable for all levels of trekkers.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Sankri.
- Day 2: Trek from Sankri to Taluka, then to Seema.
- Day 3: Trek from Seema to Har ki Doon.
- Day 4: Explore Har ki Doon Valley.
- Day 5: Trek from Har ki Doon to Seema.
- Day 6: Trek from Seema to Taluka, drive to Sankri.
- Day 7: Depart from Sankri.
9. Kedarkantha Trek
Trekking in Kedarkantha is a must-visit trekking place in the whole of north India. This fantastic trekking adventure passes via the stunning forests and moves towards the snow-covered land in Uttarakhand.
Furthermore, there are beautiful camps covered by giant pine trees. If you are looking for an easy trek amidst the lush green valleys of Uttarakhand, this could be one of your best options.
Location: Uttarakhand
Altitude: 3,810 meters
Best Time to Visit: December to April
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Dehradun to Sankri
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 5-6 days
- Popular winter trek with snow-clad trails.
- Easy to moderate, ideal for beginners.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Sankri.
- Day 2: Trek from Sankri to Juda ka Talab.
- Day 3: Trek from Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp.
- Day 4: Trek from Base Camp to Kedarkantha Summit, return to Base Camp.
- Day 5: Trek from Base Camp to Sankri.
- Day 6: Depart from Sankri.
10. Buran Ghati Trek
This trip offers it all – fantastic flora, dense forests, expansive green grasslands, glacial lakes, gleaming waterfalls, and dazzling passes – dreamy campsites, glowing waterfalls, and rousing passes.
Location: Himachal Pradesh
Altitude: 4,545 meters
Best Time to Visit: May to June, September to October
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Shimla to Janglik
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Shimla
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 7-8 days
- Features a thrilling snow wall descent.
- Moderate to challenging, requires good fitness.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Janglik.
- Day 2: Trek from Janglik to Dayara Thach.
- Day 3: Trek from Dayara Thach to Litham.
- Day 4: Explore Chandranahan Lake, return to Litham.
- Day 5: Trek from Litham to Dhunda.
- Day 6: Trek from Dhunda to River Camp via Buran Pass.
- Day 7: Trek from River Camp to Barua, and drive to Shimla.
- Day 8: Depart from Shimla.
11. Darcha – Padum Trek
There is something special about the Darcha Padum Trek. The views are so promising that adventurers don’t quit, despite getting so many cuts and slits. After choosing this Trek, you will get a chance to study the Lahaul area and all three main parts of Ladakh. But you are wondering why this place is so strenuous?
A trek in the mountains does not simply consist of walking on hills and spanning beautiful valleys, crossing mountain streams, and trekking through high peaks. You will cover places like Palamo, Zanskar Sumdo, Chuminakpo, Lakong, Purne, and Ichar on your way to Padum after beginning at Darcha in Lake Lahaul.
Location: Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh
Altitude: 5,100 meters
Best Time to Visit: June to September
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Manali to Darcha
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Chandigarh
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 10-12 days
- Cross high mountain passes and remote Zanskar villages.
- Challenging, and suitable for experienced trekkers.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Darcha.
- Day 2: Trek from Darcha to Chikka.
- Day 3: Trek from Chikka to Ramjak.
- Day 4: Trek from Ramjak to Chumik Nakpo.
- Day 5: Trek from Chumik Nakpo to Lakhang via Shingo La.
- Day 6: Trek from Lakhang to Kargyak.
- Day 7: Trek from Kargyak to Purne.
- Day 8: Trek from Purne to Phuktal, return to Purne.
- Day 9: Trek from Purne to Ichar.
- Day 10: Trek from Ichar to Mune.
- Day 11: Trek from Mune to Padum.
- Day 12: Rest day in Padum.
- Day 13: Drive from Padum to Kargil.
- Day 14: Drive from Kargil to Leh.
12. Beas Kund Trek
One of the most famous and arduous and the best summer treks in India, Himachal Pradesh offers a unique trek called Beas Kund Trek. In Manali, this trail is famous for long weekends. You will walk along the banks of River Beas as you will enjoy superb views of the Dhundi & Bakarthach meadows and PirPinjal ranges.
A glacial lake is the originating point of the river. This can be reached by climbing upwards. In myth, it was the bathing site of Sage Vyas, the author of Mahabharata, it was also known as Beas Kund. You don’t need to be an expert to trek on this.
Location: Himachal Pradesh
Altitude: 3,700 meters
Best Time to Visit: May to October
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Manali
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Chandigarh
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 3-4 days
- Trek to the source of the Beas River.
- Easy to moderate, suitable for beginners.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Manali, drive to Solang Valley, trek to Dhundi.
- Day 2: Trek from Dhundi to Bakarthach.
- Day 3: Trek from Bakarthach to Beas Kund, return to Bakarthach.
- Day 4: Trek from Bakarthach to Solang Valley, drive to Manali.
- Day 5: Depart from Manali.
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13. Dayara Bugyal Trek
With its splendid forests, beautiful campsites, ancient towns, rousing climbs, and great mountain views, Dayara Bugyal is the ideal Himalayan Trek.
There is a complete blanket of snow covering these fields during the winter. This is an easy-moderate trek – it’s rare to find these kinds of treks.
Location: Uttarakhand
Altitude: 3,408 meters
Best Time to Visit: May to June, September to October
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Dehradun to Barsu
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 4-5 days
- Explore high-altitude meadows and panoramic views.
- Easy to moderate, ideal for beginners.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Barsu.
- Day 2: Trek from Barsu to Barnala Tal.
- Day 3: Trek from Barnala Tal to Dayara Bugyal.
- Day 4: Explore Dayara Bugyal, trek to Barsu.
- Day 5: Depart from Barsu.
14. Sandakphu Trek
Sandakphu Trek is a trek that leads to 11,930 feet of elevation above sea level in West Bengal’s Singalila National Park. Among the best treks in Eastern India are in this area.
Location: West Bengal
Altitude: 3,636 meters
Best Time to Visit: April to May, October to December
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Darjeeling to Manebhanjan
- By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 6-7 days
- Offers views of four of the world’s highest peaks.
- Moderate difficulty, suitable for all levels of trekkers.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Manebhanjan.
- Day 2: Trek from Manebhanjan to Tumling.
- Day 3: Trek from Tumling to Kalipokhri.
- Day 4: Trek from Kalipokhri to Sandakphu.
- Day 5: Trek from Sandakphu to Sabargram.
- Day 6: Trek from Sabargram to Gurdum.
- Day 7: Trek from Gurdum to Rimbik, drive to Darjeeling.
- Day 8: Depart from Darjeeling.
15. Panpatia Col Trek
Many people have undertaken this Trek, but most lost their way and never returned. The intensity of Panpatia Col Trek must have become clear after this short and windy intro. Due to its difficulty, it’s offbeat, but it connects two of Uttarakhand’s most sacred monuments, Badrinath and Kedarnath.
In Badrinath, the Trek begins and ends in Nilkanth Khal along the Dumkal Kharak route. As you continue, you will visit the Panpatia glacier snout and the flats of the Panpatia glacier. After crossing Panpatia Plateau, you will reach Maidagala Tal via Panpatia Col. After that, you’ll trek to Ransi downhill.
Location: Uttarakhand
Altitude: 5,260 meters
Best Time to Visit: May to June, September to October
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi from Rishikesh to Joshimath
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar
Experience Tips:
- Duration: 12-15 days
- A challenging trek through glaciers and crevasses.
- Suitable for highly experienced trekkers with technical skills.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Joshimath.
- Day 2: Trek from Joshimath to Badrinath, drive to Khirao.
- Day 3: Trek from Khirao to Shepherd Camp.
- Day 4: Trek from Shepherd Camp to Snout Camp.
- Day 5: Trek from Snout Camp to Moraine Camp.
- Day 6: Trek from Moraine Camp to Base Camp.
- Day 7: Trek from Base Camp to Panpatia Col, descend to Sujal Sarovar.
- Day 8: Trek from Sujal Sarovar to Deoban.
- Day 9: Trek from Deoban to Ransi.
- Day 10: Trek from Ransi to Madmaheshwar.
- Day 11: Trek from Madmaheshwar to Bantoli.
- Day 12: Trek from Bantoli to Ransi, drive to Rudraprayag.
- Day 13: Depart from Rudraprayag.
The bottom line,
These are among the top 15 most popular high-altitude trekking trails in India. These treks offer unique views, which are very difficult to find anywhere on the earth. So don’t wait anymore. You will relax and get rid of any worries after the trekking tour.
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FAQs
1. What are the best high-altitude treks in India?
- Roopkund Trek: Known for the mysterious skeleton lake.
- Chadar Trek: A unique trek on the frozen Zanskar River.
- Stok Kangri Trek: A challenging trek to one of the highest peaks in the Ladakh region.
2. Which is the highest trekking point in India?
- Stok Kangri: At an altitude of 6,153 meters (20,187 feet), it is the highest trekking peak in India.
3. What should I consider when joining a high-altitude trek team?
- Experience: Ensure the team has experienced guides and support staff.
- Fitness Level: Be physically prepared for the challenges of high-altitude trekking.
- Equipment: Make sure the team provides necessary high-altitude gear and safety equipment.
4. What is the best time for high-altitude trekking in India?
- May to October: This period generally offers the best weather conditions for high altitude treks, especially in the Himalayas.
5. What are some famous high-altitude national parks in India?
- Great Himalayan National Park: Known for its biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
- Nanda Devi National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site with challenging treks.
- Hemis National Park: Famous for its high altitude and snow leopards.
6. How should I prepare for a high-altitude trek?
- Physical Fitness: Engage in regular cardio and strength training exercises.
- Acclimatization: Spend a few days at a high altitude to acclimatize.
- Proper Gear: Invest in good quality trekking gear, including warm clothing and sturdy boots.
7. What are the risks of high-altitude trekking?
- Altitude Sickness: Symptoms include headache, nausea, and dizziness.
- Extreme Weather: Sudden weather changes can occur, so be prepared for cold and snow.
- Physical Exhaustion: High-altitude treks are physically demanding.
8. Can beginners go for high altitude treks?
- Yes, but with caution: Beginners should start with less challenging high-altitude treks like Kedarkantha or Dayara Bugyal and ensure they are in good physical condition.
9. What are some safety tips for high altitude trekking?
- Acclimatize Properly: Spend time at high altitudes before the trek.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness.
- Follow Guide Instructions: Always listen to your trek guide for safety and route advice.
- Carry Essential Medications: Bring medicines for altitude sickness and other common ailments.
