If spring is the season for the nature lovers, winters can be called as the season for the adventure junkies; especially the trekkers in India. It is during the winters, the fascinating mountain ranges clad themselves with thick blankets of snow and allures trekkers from across the globe.
Passing through five different countries; India, Bhutan, Nepal, China and Pakistan, the mighty Himalayan Range or the home to the Mt Everest, Khanchendzonga, Pin Parvati and other enthralling peaks, also entices trekkers from different corners of the world. With more than hundreds of trekking trails, this astounding range fascinates expert as well as amateur trekkers.
If you are a trekker at heart, here is a list of 50 best Himalayan treks; and in case, you are not, this list will surely encourage you to become one:
Annapurna Base Camp:
Height: 8091m (26545ft)
Duration: 11 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Season: September to November, March to May, December to February
The tenth highest mountain in the world, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is amongst the most enthralling
Himalayan treks in the world. Originating from Pokhara, Nepal, the trek takes you through scenic landscapes, rustic villages, evergreen rhododendrons and offers prismatic views of the Himalayas.
Banderpunch:
Height: 6316m
Duration: 8 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Season: March to October
Resembling the tail of a monkey (Bandar in Hindi), the Banderpunch or Bandarpoonch is acclaimes as one of the most popular treks in Uttarakhand. Originating from Uttarkashi, this trek takes you through some of the glaciers, rivers like Yamuna, Tons and Ganga, lush and evergreen forests and astounding views of the Himalayan Ranges.
Bara Bhangal Trek:
Height: 4800m
Duration: 12 Days
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Best Season: June to October
Also known as the ‘Shepherds Tail
Trek’,
Bara Bhangal Trek originates from Manikaran in Kullu Valley. Passing through high passes, exhilarating terrains, scenic Himalayan vistas and the captivating Spiti Valley, the trek ends with arrival in the Bara Bhangal settlemment of Himachal Pradesh.
Chadar Trek:
Height: 11,123ft
Duration: 9 Days
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Best Season: January to February
Well, this trek needs no introduction! Taking place only during the month of Jan-Feb, it is known to be the most enthralling treks in India; it involves trekking over the Frozen Zanskar River in the Zanskar River in Ladakh.
Chopta Chandrashila:
Height: 3925ft
Duration: 4 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: September to November, January to March
Another enthralling
trekking in the Garhwal Himalayas, this trek originates from Chopta or the ‘Switzerlad of India’. While trailing to the end point of this trek, you will be spellbound by its enchanting beauty, narrow yet fascinating passes, amazing views of the bountiful forests and lot more.
Chopta Tunganath:
Height: 12073ft
Duration: 4 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Season: February to November
Taking you to one of the highest temple in the world; the Tungnath Temple, this Garhwal Himalayan Trek is known for the panoramic views of the Panchachuli, Nanda Devi and Kedarnath Peaks. If taken during the early spring, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the rhododendron forest.
Brahma Taal:
Height: 10500ft
Duration: 7 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: May to June, October, January to February
Deep captivating gorges, lofty peaks, picturesque views all around and enthralling terrains make this trek an amazing experience for the ardent trekkers. Originating in Uttarakhand, this trek is an amazing way to discover the magical beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Dayara Bugyal:
Height: 12,500ft
Duration: 6-7 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Season: May to June, September to October
Deotibba Hampta Pass:
Height: 6725ft
Duration: 5 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: Round the Year (except Monsoons)
The lofty mountain peaks of Himachal Pradesh make it for and wonderful trekking destination. The Deo Tibba and Hampta Pass trek is one such trek, where you can trek through barren lands, lush valleys, lofty peaks and evergreen patches of oak and walnut forests.
Dodital Lake Trek:
Height: 13616ft
Duration: 9 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Best Season: Round the Year
A trek to the Dodital Lake is filled with fun, excitement and adventure! Dodital, which is considered as the birth place of the Lord Ganesha, is known for its exoticness, immaculate beauty and trek friendly ambience.
Dzongri Goecha La:
Height: 5,760-14,100ft
Duration: 13 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Best Season: March to May
While talking about treks, Sikkim proves to one of the finest destinations in the country. Originating from Yuksom, this trek follows the Rathong Valley and is considered as the gateway to the mighty Khanchendzonga Peak along with other Himalayan Peaks.
Everest Base Camp (EBC):
Height: 18,523ft
Duration: 15 Days
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Best Season: February to June, September to November
The fascinating beauty and charm of the Mt Everest has always attracted trekkers from different corners of the world. On this trek that originates from Kathmandu, Nepal, you will be trekking through the ridges of the Himalayas, captivating glaciers, rhododendron and pine forests and much more!
Gangotri Tapovan:
Height: 14,638ft
Duration: 14 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Best Season: April (mid) to June, August to October (mid)
Whether you are yearning for
thrill and adventure or peace of mind, the Gangotri Tapovan Trek is an ideal trek to get indulged in. Originating from Uttarkashi in Uttarakhand, you can witness spectacular glaciers, craggy terrains, challenging passes and scenic meadows in this trek.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek:
Height: 10,531ft
Duration: 7 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: January to May, October to December
Rising around 10,531ft above the sea level, Poon Hill is an astounding place to witness the magical beauty of the sunrise. This 4-5 days originates in the Himalayan Range of Nepal and takes you through the untouched beauty of Nepal and its pristine beauty.
Goecha-la Trek
Height: 16,000ft
Duration: 11 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Season: April to June
The enchanting valleys of Sikkim are where this trek originates. Taking you through the magical turns and twists of the Himalayan Range, this trek is considered as an ideal experience to witness and enjoy the mesmeric views of the Khanchendzonga Peak and other astounding Himalayan Peaks.
Hampta Pass
Height: 14,100ft
Duration: 4-5 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: June to September
If you are new to trekking, the Hampta Pass Trek is the best one to opt for! Connecting the scenic Lahaul and Kullu valleys, the easy gradient, prismatic views of the glaciers, alpine forests and the mighty Himalayan Range are the key elements beginners take this trek.
Har ki Dun Trek
Height: 11,675ft
Duration: 7-8 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: March to June, September to November
One of the least explored vicinities, the Har Ki Doon Valley is known for its pristine and untouched beauty. Laced with the amazing views of alpine forests, snow-clad peaks, chestnut, walnut, willow and chinar forests, the trek also offers ample of opportunities for bird watching and enjoy the charm of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Homkund Ronti Saddle
Height: 16,863 ft
Duration: 11 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: June to July
The Homkund or Hom Kund trek takes you closer to the fascinating Trishul and Nanda Ghunti Peaks in Uttarakhand. Considered as one of the newest treks in the country, this trek has gained popularity due to its close proximity with the Roopkund Lake.
Kareri Lake Trek
Height: 10,863ft
Duration: 8 DaysDifficulty Level: Easy to ModerateBest Season: May to June, September to October
Also known as the Kumarwah Lake, this high altitude water reservoir is amongst the most stunning lakes in Himachal Pradesh. Adding to its enchanting beauty is the Dhauladhar Range and the pictorial Kangra Valley. In addition to all these, the fact that the lake remains frozen during December to March/April entices trekkers from across the globe.
Kashmir Great LakesTrek
Height: 13,750ft
Duration: 8 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: July to August
Originating from Sonamarg in Kashmir, this amazing trek takes you through four of the highest altitude lakes in the country. Above all, while on this trek, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the great Himalayan Range cosetted with the thick snow blankets and the pristine beauty of the alpine forests.
Bhubu Pass:
Height: 3000m
Duration: 5 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Season: March to April, Novenber to December
The Bhubu Pass trek is indeed one of the best treks to take during the winters. Nestled amidst the Kullu Valley, this entire trek is an experience of fascinating Indrasan and Deo Tibba pass, snow-clad peaks and some of the hidden rhododendron forests.
Kedar Kantha Trek
Height: 12,500ft
Duration: 7 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Season: Round the Year
With easier ascends and gradual descend, the Kedarkantha Trek proves to be an ideal trek for the beginners. Ascending through valleys of the Tons River and the Govind National Park, the trek offers promising views during the winters as the entire valley remains covered with snow.
Kuari Pass Trek
Height: 12,763ft
Duration: 6 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: December to March
A major trek in the Garhwal Himalayas, the Kuari Pass Trek is an epitome of natural beauty and fascination! Discovered during the British Rule in India by Lord Curzon, the trek offers stunning views of some of the peaks like Kamet, Trishul, Chaukhaba and the Nanda Devi.
Malana-Chanderkhani Pass
Height: 11811ft
Duration: 5 Days
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Best Season: May to November
Experience an astounding as well as enthralling
Malana trek, which is in the oldest democracy in the world. With the Chanderkhani Pass as the main highlight, the trek originates from Naggar and is known for its challenging trails, narrow and high altitude passes.
Markha Valley Trek
Height: 17,060ft
Duration: 9 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: June to September
Nagtibba Trek
Height: 10,006ft
Duration: 3DaysDifficulty Level: ModerateBest Season: February (mid) to June, September to December
A circular trek in the mighty Himalayan Range, this fascinating trek is known for offering spectacular views of the Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Srikanth and Black peaks. Passing through lush and exotic oak, rhododendron, cider and alpine forests, the trek is an awesome way to get introduced with the immaculate beauty of the Himalayas.
Neel Kantha Base Camp
Height: 11,398ft
Duration: 35 Days
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Best Season: June to September
Guarding the Alaknanda River Valley, a trek to this 11,398ft peak of the Garhwal Himalayas is an exhilarating experience. While according to the legends, this peak was celestially created by Lord Shiva, the trekkers find the peak as one of the most enticing peaks in the country.
Panpatia Col Trek
Height: 17,257ft
Duration: 12 Days
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Best Season: June and September
While on this strenuous trek, you can visit two of the sacred shrines in the country: Badrinath and Kedarnath. Known to the largest snowfield in the Garhwal Himalayas, this trek was discovered by Shimpton and Tilman during the 1934s.
Parang La Trek
Height: 18,300ft
Duration: 9 Days
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Best Season: August to October
Originating from Kibber,a high altitude hamlet in the Himalayas, which is also the indigenous home to the snow leopards, this trek is amongst the newest treks in India. Trailing closely with the Tibet border, the trek falls between the ancient
route of Ladakh and Spiti Valley.
Parashar Lake Trek
Height: 8957ft
Duration: 2 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Season: Round the Year (except Monsoons)
Nestled away amidst the enchanting peaks of the Himalayan Range, the Parashar Lake in the Kullu Vaalley is no less than a dream-come-true destination. Overlooking the Dhauladhar Range, the trek passes through dense forests, local villages, stunning rivers and lot more.
Pathalsu Peak Trek
Height: 13,451ft
Duration: 5 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: May to October
Join this trek to the tip of the Kullu Valley and you will never run out of fascinating views and exhilarating terrains! Originating from Manali, it takes you through some of the magnificent villages like Shanag, Solang and Burwa.
Pin Parvati Trek
Height: 17,450ft
Duration: 13-17 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous
Best Season: June to October
An alternate passage to the stunning Spiti Valley, this is amongst the oldest treks in the Indian Himalayas. The Pin Parvati Valley, which is also known as the ‘Valley of Gods’, offers a challenging yet fascinating trekking experience.
Roopkund Trek
Height: 16,500ft
Duration: 7-9 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: May to October
One of the mysterious treks in the Indian Himalayas, Roopkund Trek takes you through dense virgin forests, stunning rivulets, stunning campsites and evergreen meadows. A trek to a high altitude lake, the trails to the final destination of the trek comprises of passes through strewn glaciers, snow-clad peaks and narrow passes.
Rupin Pass Trek
Height: 15,256ft
Duration: 7-10 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous
Best Season: May (last week) to June (end), September (mid) to October (end)
A trek, where every turns and twists can bring in a set of new surprises, the Rupin Pass trek originates in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Comprising of gradient as well as steep climbs, trailing through stunning passes, scenic waterfalls and rivers, colourful meadows and other natural marvels, the trek is an experience of a lifetime.
Sar Pass Trek
Height: 13,780ft
Duration: 5 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: May to June, September to November
Kasol,a paradise for the backpacking lovers is the origin of this enthralling trek. Finding ways through the scenic Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges, the trek is filled with captivating trails that passes through lush and evergreen forests, gurgling rivers and snow clad peaks.
Singalila Ridge & Sandakphu Trek
Height: 11,929ft
Duration: 7 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: April to June, September to November
While trekking to the
highest point of West Bengal, Sandakphu, don’t be surprised if you find some of the best panoramic views of the Mt Everest, Kanchencjunga, Makalu and Lhotse peaks. Taking you through valleys of exotic orchids, lush rhododendrons, pine forests and the Singalila National Park, this is in fact one of the best and enthralling treks to take in West Bengal.
Snow Leopard Trek
Height: 9842ft
Duration: 9 Days
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Best Season: December to March
Sprawling over 600sqkm, the Hemis National Park in Ladakh is the natural home to the snow leopards. A trek to this park through the stunning locales that comprises rocky terrains, views of the mighty Himalayan Range, exhilarating terrains and pictorial landscapes, is an experience of a lifetime.
Stok Kangri Trek
Height: 20,187ft
Duration: 9 Days
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Best Season: July to September
Located gracefully amidst the picturesque valleys of Ladakh, the
Stok Kangri Trek is the best for the beginners to get acclimatised with the Indian Himalayas. During the entire 9 days trek, you will be accompanied by stunning views of the Zanskar Range, Indus Valley and Leh.
Sudarshan Parbhat Trek
Height: 21,348ft
Duration: 11 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: May to June, September to October
If you are amongst those who years for adrenaline kick only through trekking, you cannot afford to miss this trek! Originating from Gangotri and heading towards Gaumukh; via the Raktavarn glacier, the trek offers astounding views of the Mt Saifee, Mt Thelu, Mt Koteshwar, Mt Swetwarn and several others.
Brighu Lake Trek
Height: 13910ft
Duration: 4 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: May (mid) to November (mid)
On a
Bhrigu Lake Trek in the Kullu Valley, you will be crossing the astounding Rohtang Pass. According to the legends, a local God called Guru Vashisht used to take dip in this lake and thus it hold a sacred place in the Hindu mythology. While on the trek, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar and the other Himalayan peak.
Trek to Beaskund
Height: 16,240ft
Duration: 4 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: May (mid) to October (mid)
One of the most sought after treks in Manali,
the Beas Kund trek is considered holy by most of the Hindus. The fun and excitement of this trek begins with the glimpses of the Mt hanuman Tibba and it is ideal for trekkers of almost all age groups.
Valley Of Flowers Trek
Height: 12,000ft
Duration: 6 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: July to September
Though this trek is considered as a moderate trek, upon completing it, you will be rewarded with the most captivating views of a hidden colourful valley. As the name goes, the trek leads to a pictorial valley comprising of exotic and rare flowers in the lap of the Himalayan Range in Uttarakhand.
Mt. Kanchenjunga Trek
Height: 28,169ft
Duration: 15 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Best Season: March to June, October to November
Well, for an ardent trekker, what can be more fascinating than hiking to the Mt Kanchenjunga peak? Considered as one of the best treks in the world, this astounding trek start from Yuksom in Sikkim and takes you through some of the challenging passes, trails and forests areas of the Himalayas.
Borasu Pass Trek
Height: 17,800ft
Duration: 6 Days
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Best Season: June, September to October
A connecting pasage between the Himalayan Range of Himachal and Uttarakhand, the Barasu Pass trek is a unique experience for the trekkers. The trails of this amazing trek pass through the Har Ki Dun Valley and also through the Marinda Lake and finally lead to lush and flowery meadows.
Kinner Kailash Circuit Trek
Height: 17,257ft
Duration: 15 Days
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Best Season: May to September
Originating from Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh, this enthralling trek is also linked with several mythological tales. In addition to the panoramic views of the ranges like Zanskar, Greater Himalayas and Dhauladhar, this trek also allows the trekkers to visit a 79ft Shiva Lingam that changes its colour all through the day.
Khatling Glacier Trek
Height: 13,779ft
Duration: 12-14 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: May to October
Source of the Bhilangana River, the Khatling Glacier is undoubtedly one of the stunning glaciers in the Indian Himalayan Range! On this trek, the trekkers are sure to find some of the best views of snow capped peaks, hanging glaciers, scenic meadows and other natural marvels of the Himalayas.
Panchachuli Base Camp Trek
Height: 13,976ft
Duration: 7-10 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: May to October
Though moderate in nature, this trek is filled with fun, excitement and enthralment! Originating from the Dharma Valley of Uttarakhand, the trek passes besides the Tibet and Nepal border and takes the trekkers to the Panchachuli Glaicer that is nestled amidst the stunning beauty of the Kumaon region.
Milam Glacier Trek
Height: 13,615ft
Duration: 13-15 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous
Best Season: June to October
Yet another engrossing trek in the Kumaon region, this trek takes you to some of the remote settlements of Uttarakhand. Around 28km in length, the trek can be strenuous in nature depending on the weather and climb.
Padam – Darcha Valley Trek
Height: 16,240ft
Duration: 9-12 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Season: June to October
An ideal trek for the beginners as well as the expert trekkers, this trek is accompanied by lofty snow capped peaks, stunning valleys, groovy forests and exhilarating trails. Taking place only during the summers, on the completion of the trek, the trekkers are rewarded with promising views of the Himalayas and local experience.
Kafni Glacier Trek
Height: 12n769ft
Duration: 9-11 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Season: May to October
Located within a close proximmity to the Pindar Valley and south to the Nandakot Peak, the Kafni Galcier also makes it for an amazing trekking destination. In addition to a wide range of flora and fauna, the trek also offers magical views of the Nandakot and Nandabhnar summits of the Himalayan Range.