Indian Trekking Destinations – Top 10 Best Trekking Locations

By - October 10, 2024 - Adventure, India

Who doesn’t love adventure in their lives? Trekking experiences provide one with different challenges and a new perspective on life. There are so many untouched and remote areas to visit in India which can be fulfilled through treks. It all takes willpower and interest to go on a trek. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, there are numerous treks at different altitudes.

The immense greenery, amazing waterfalls, forested areas, and serene environment fill one with energy when one undergoes a trek. When the concept of trekking comes to mind, then the Himalayan ranges or the Western Ghats provide one with some of India’s best trekking destinations. These treks can be moderate to difficult and one might not find all the basic amenities out there. But surely a trek is always worth the risks.

Here are Some of the 10 Popular Treks in India are listed:

1. Chadar Trek, Ladakh

This trek remains one of the most difficult treks but a life-changing moment for those who embark on this trek. Walking at an altitude of 3390 m, this trek is on the Zanskar river which changes into thick ice sheets during winter. The temperatures fall considerably low and you have to make your way through thin ice and narrow bridges.

This trek starts at Chilling from where you have to head toward Zanskar lake. One can witness many Buddhist Monasteries on the way. January to February are the best months to try out Chadar lake. Read Also: Top 10 Trekking Destinations in Ladakh.

  • Best Time to Visit: January to February.
  • Duration: 8-9 days.
  • Difficulty: Difficult.
  • How to Reach: Fly to Leh, which is the base for the trek. Leh is well connected by air with major cities in India.
  • Why Visit: The Chadar Trek is a unique experience where trekkers walk over the frozen Zanskar River. The stark beauty of the snow-clad mountains and frozen waterfalls offers an unforgettable adventure.
  • Things to Do: Trek across the ice, camp in caves, and experience the harsh yet stunning winter landscape of Ladakh.
Explore Itineraries for Ladakh:

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2. Kheerganga Trek, Himachal

For those who want to discover themselves, the Kheerganga trek is the perfect journey to be on. Kheerganga located in the Parvati Valley is known for its natural hot springs and a mystical take to the woods. Kasol is a peaceful and serene city with picturesque landscapes to view. Kheerganga is the end part of the Parvati River and one can also get a glimpse of Lahaul Spiti.

The Kheerganga trek is an easy trek and the duration is quite short. The campsites in the trek might be near the riverside or at any other place depending on the weather and climate.

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  • Best Time to Visit: May to November.
  • Duration: 2 days.
  • Difficulty: Moderate.
  • How to Reach: Reach Kasol by road from Manali or Chandigarh. The trek begins from Barshaini.
  • Why Visit: The Kheerganga trek offers lush green landscapes, dense forests, and hot springs at the summit. It’s a perfect short trek for beginners.
  • Things to Do: Soak in the natural hot springs, enjoy panoramic views of the Parvati Valley, and explore the nearby villages.
Himachal Trip Itineraries:

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3. Har ki Doon Trek, Uttarakhand

The Har ki Doon trek is known for the stunning landscapes that you can witness during this trek. The Garwal Mountains covered with snow-clad peaks and crystal-clear water flowing from the Himalayan ranges are a treat to the eyes. This trek has significant importance that dates back to the Mahabharata times. The alpine meadows on the journey look beautiful.

Har ki Doon trek is located at an altitude of 4300 m and ranges from an easy to moderate level. The Garwal mountain ranges are also referred to as the Valley of Gods.

  • Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to November.
  • Duration: 6-7 days.
  • Difficulty: Moderate.
  • How to Reach: The trek starts from Sankri, which can be reached by road from Dehradun.
  • Why Visit: Har ki Doon is known as the “Valley of Gods” and offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and dense forests. It’s a great trek for nature lovers.
  • Things to Do: Explore the ancient villages, visit Jaundhar Glacier, and enjoy views of Swargarohini Peak.

Read Other Articles in Uttarakhand:

4. Pin Parvati Trek, Himachal Pradesh

This trek gives one splendid scene of the Spiti Valley. The trek starts from Barsheni Village where you will find evergreen forests and meadows. Then it goes up to Rudranath to the endpoint of Tunda Bhuj. This is a place where you can see many rare species of birds.

Mantalai and the charming lake are the two points on the way to Parvati Valley. The steep slopes, barren mountains, and rugged passes make this trek extra special. This is a 100km trek which is normally completed in 10 days. One can also experience heavy snowfall at times making this trek difficult then. The temperatures drop down to -4 making it difficult to breathe at times.

  • Best Time to Visit: July to September.
  • Duration: 11-12 days.
  • Difficulty: Difficult.
  • How to Reach: The trek starts from Barshaini, which is accessible by road from Manali or Kasol.
  • Why Visit: This is a high-altitude trek that crosses the Pin Parvati Pass (5,319 meters), offering dramatic landscapes, glaciers, and diverse ecosystems as trekkers pass from Parvati Valley to the Spiti Valley.
  • Things to Do: Cross alpine meadows, trek through forests, camp by serene rivers, and explore Buddhist monasteries in Spiti.

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5. Valley of Flowers Trek, Uttarakhand

This trek can provide you with a very magical experience amidst the meadows and clouds touching the ground. This trek can give your eyes a feast once when you look into the new blossoms of flowers. Serene lake and the beauty of the peaks can make you fall in love with this place. The Valley of Flowers trek will give you a chance to see some of the exotic wildlife present in this area of India.

Poppy, Calendula, Daisies, etc. are some of the exotic species of flora that you can find here. Hathi Parvat and Saptarishi peaks can also be witnessed in this trek. You can get to enjoy a lovely evening with the locals in this area to know more about them. This trek ends at Joshimath and is considered to be a moderate-level trek.

  • Best Time to Visit: July to September.
  • Duration: 4-5 days.
  • Difficulty: Moderate.
  • How to Reach: The trek begins at Govindghat, which is accessible by road from Haridwar or Rishikesh.
  • Why Visit: The Valley of Flowers is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its vibrant meadows filled with endemic flowers and diverse flora. The landscape changes dramatically during the blooming season.
  • Things to Do: Explore the Valley of Flowers National Park, visit Hemkund Sahib, and enjoy the colorful alpine meadows.
View more other places and tourist attractions in Uttarakhand:

6. Goecha La Trek, Sikkim

Trekking in Sikkim is different from other parts of India as one has to cross various ranges of mountain peaks while trekking in Sikkim. You can get a chance to walk through rhododendron trees, fresh streams, and green meadows. This trek starts at Yuksom and you have to travel through Tshoka, Sachen, and Thanking to reach Goecha La. Goecha La is an icy track and one can see snow-capped mountains on all sides.

The best time to carry out this trek is from September to November and you will get a completely different experience while trekking in Sikkim.

  • Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to November.
  • Duration: 10-11 days.
  • Difficulty: Difficult.
  • How to Reach: Start the trek from Yuksom, which is accessible by road from Gangtok.
  • Why Visit: The Goecha La trek offers breathtaking views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. The trail passes through beautiful rhododendron forests and high-altitude lakes.
  • Things to Do: Camp near Samiti Lake, trek to Dzongri viewpoint, and enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Packages for Sikkim Trip:

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7. Trek to Nishani Motte Hills, Coorg

This trek is an easy one and is considered a weekend gateway trek in Coorg. The trek starts from Bangalore and it is only about a 14 km long trek. One has to cross Shola forests to reach the top. When you reach the top, you can get superb glimpses of the Brahmagiri range.

This trek needs to have a guide to give a complete understanding of the places which you will cross on your journey.

  • Best Time to Visit: October to March.
  • Duration: 1-2 days.
  • Difficulty: Moderate.
  • How to Reach: Reach Coorg by road from Bangalore or Mysore. The trek starts from Bhagamandala.
  • Why Visit: Nishani Motte offers a relatively less-explored trail through the Western Ghats, offering scenic views of the Coorg countryside, lush green valleys, and coffee plantations.
  • Things to Do: Trek through the dense forest, enjoy the biodiversity of the Western Ghats, and visit nearby coffee estates.
An itinerary for Karnataka is as follows:

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8. Kareri Lake Trek, Mcleodganj

Those who have a fetish for the Himalayan ranges should visit the Kareri Lake trek to get scenic views of the mountains. This trek will provide you with glimpses of the whole of the Himalayan ranges. This trek starts at Dharamkot from where you will go to Kareri Village. From there on, you will go up to Minikiani Pass. You can get many terrains on your journey and many bridges to cross.

Spend some quiet time near the lake taking pictures of the beautiful scenery. Night tents are mostly put up near the lake. You can get a view of the clear night sky and sleep under thousands of stars.

  • Best Time to Visit: May to July, September to November.
  • Duration: 3 days.
  • Difficulty: Moderate.
  • How to Reach: Start the trek from Mcleodganj or Dharamshala, which are accessible by road from Delhi or Chandigarh.
  • Why Visit: Kareri Lake is a high-altitude, glacial lake surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped mountains, making it a perfect destination for trekkers seeking serenity.
  • Things to Do: Camp near the lake, explore the quaint villages on the way, and enjoy the clear night sky.

McLeod Ganj Package: 2 Nights 3 Days Mcleodganj Tour Package from Delhi

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9. Hampta Pass Trek, Himachal Pradesh

The Hampta Pass Trek is located at a higher altitude in the Kullu valley. The trek starts at Jobra and you will cross places like Balu ka Ghera, Chika, Chandratal, etc. to reach Hampta. This is one of the best treks that you will find in Himachal Pradesh. At every step of the trek, you can witness grass-laden meadows and peaks of the Himalayas. This trek is usually a 4-day long trek and in the end, you will experience the best of what Himachal has to offer.

This trek is considered to be a moderate one with May being the best time for this kind of trek.

  • Best Time to Visit: June to October.
  • Duration: 4-5 days.
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult.
  • How to Reach: The trek starts from Manali, which is well connected by road.
  • Why Visit: Hampta Pass is known for its diverse landscapes, from lush green valleys to barren deserts. The trek connects the Kullu Valley to the Spiti Valley, offering a contrasting experience.
  • Things to Do: Trek through the alpine meadows, camp by Chandratal Lake, and experience the cultural difference between the Kullu and Spiti valleys.

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10. Nag Tibba Trek, Uttarakhand

The Nag Tibba trek is a circular trek where you will start from a different point and come and meet at the same point. There is no overlap of trails and you will move through forests of Alpine, Oak, and Cider. The beauty of this trek is enhanced when you visit the quaint villages and come to know about the lifestyles of these people.

The best part of the trek would be drenching your feet in the cold waters of the lakes situated on the way to this trek.

  • Best Time to Visit: October to March.
  • Duration: 2 days.
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
  • How to Reach: The trek starts from Pantwari, which is accessible by road from Dehradun or Mussoorie.
  • Why Visit: Nag Tibba is a perfect weekend trek offering stunning views of the Bandarpoonch, Kedarnath, and Gangotri peaks. It is a great option for beginners.
  • Things to Do: Enjoy the short trek through oak forests, camp at the base of Nag Tibba, and visit nearby hill stations like Mussoorie.
Suggested Uttarakhand Itineraries:

These are some of the best treks to go to India. Do plan one soon in the coming year!

Suggested India Tour Packages:

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the best trekking destinations in India?

India offers many great trekking destinations like the Roopkund Trek in Uttarakhand, Valley of Flowers Trek, Chadar Trek in Ladakh, and Goecha La Trek in Sikkim.

2. Which are the best places for trekking in North India?

Popular trekking spots in North India include the Hampta Pass Trek, Kedarkantha Trek, and the Triund Trek in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

3. What is the most beautiful trek in India?

The Valley of Flowers Trek in Uttarakhand is often considered one of the most beautiful treks due to its stunning alpine meadows and diverse flora.

4. Which are the best trekking places near Chandigarh?

Some great trekking spots near Chandigarh include Kheerganga, Triund, and Kareri Lake in Himachal Pradesh.

5. What is the best time to go trekking in India?

The best time for trekking in India depends on the region. The summer and autumn months (May–October) are ideal for treks in the Himalayas, while winter treks like Kedarkantha are popular from December to March.

6. What are some famous trekking routes in India?

Famous trekking routes in India include the Chadar Trek in Ladakh, Markha Valley Trek, and the Everest Base Camp Trek in the Indian side of the Himalayas.

7. Are there any easy treks for beginners in India?

Yes, easy treks like Triund Trek in Himachal Pradesh, the Deoriatal-Chandrashila Trek in Uttarakhand, and the Prashar Lake Trek are suitable for beginners.

8. What are the best trekking spots in the Western Ghats?

The Western Ghats offer treks like Kudremukh Trek in Karnataka, Chembra Peak Trek in Kerala, and Tadiandamol Trek in Coorg.

9. Is trekking in India safe?

Trekking in India is generally safe as long as you follow local guidelines, hire experienced guides, and are physically prepared. Always check weather conditions before starting any trek.

10. What should I pack for a trekking trip in India?

For trekking in India, pack essentials like good-quality trekking shoes, warm clothing, rain gear, a first aid kit, water bottles, and energy snacks. For longer treks, carry proper camping gear.

11. What are some famous trekking spots in South India?

Some popular trekking spots in South India include the Kudremukh Trek in Karnataka, Meesapulimala Trek in Kerala, and the Nilgiri Hills Trek in Tamil Nadu.

12. Which is the best winter trek in India?

The Kedarkantha Trek in Uttarakhand is considered one of the best winter treks in India, offering breathtaking snow-covered landscapes.

13. Are there any monsoon treks in India?

Yes, some of the best monsoon treks in India include the Rajmachi Trek in Maharashtra, Valley of Flowers Trek in Uttarakhand, and the Mullayanagiri Trek in Karnataka.

14. What are the best trekking spots in the Eastern Himalayas?

In the Eastern Himalayas, treks like the Goecha La Trek in Sikkim and the Sandakphu Trek along the India-Nepal border are popular.

15. How can I prepare for a high-altitude trek in India?

To prepare for a high-altitude trek, build your endurance through cardio exercises, gradually increase your hiking distance, stay hydrated, and acclimatize properly during the trek to avoid altitude sickness.

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