The Top 10 Best Himalayan Treks in India for 2023

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If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding adventure, look no further than Indian Himalayan Treks.

These epic journeys through some of the world’s most majestic mountain ranges offer unparalleled beauty, breathtaking views, and an exhilarating challenge that will leave you feeling truly alive.

From Bhrigu Lake to the Buran Pass and snow wall, these treks take you through stunning landscapes and give you a chance to experience local culture and customs. Each one is unique in its own way, but they all share one thing in common; they are guaranteed to leave you with an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.

No matter if you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting your hiking journey, there’s something for everyone in the Himalayas.

In this post we’re going to be exploring the 10 best Himalayan Treks in two of India’s Northern states, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

If you’re ready for the challenge of a lifetime, pack your bags and get ready to explore some of the most incredible Himalayan Treks on earth!

Bharath Raj N | Unsplash – Himachal Pradesh

10 Best Indian Himalayan Treks – TL;DR

1. Hampta Pass Trek
2. Buran Ghati Trek
3. Pin Bhaba Pass Trek
4. Rupin Pass Trek
5. Bhrigu Lake Trek
6. Kedarkantha Trek
7. Brahmatal Trek
8. Har Ki Dun Trek
9. Kuari Pass Trek
10. Dayara Bugyal Trek

Trekking in Uttarakhand

If you are looking for a new adventure, consider trekking in Uttarakhand.

A northern state in India, Uttarakhand is often called the “Land of the Gods” due to its natural beauty and religious significance. The Himalayas run through the middle of the state, making it a popular destination for trekkers and hikers.

Uttarakhand is also home to many Hindu temples and pilgrimage sites, including Kedarnath Temple, Badrinath Temple, and Haridwar. The capital city of Uttarakhand is Dehradun, located in the foothills of the Himalayas.

The people of Uttarakhand are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and the state has a rich cultural heritage. Visitors to Uttarakhand can enjoy hiking in the mountains, exploring ancient temples and shrines, or simply relaxing in the peaceful atmosphere of the Himalayas.

Ashwini Chaudray Monty | Unsplash – Uttarakhand

Trekking In Himachal Pradesh

Trekking has gained immense popularity in Himachal Pradesh in recent years.

It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, with snow-capped himalayan ranges, rushing rivers and verdant valleys.

The culture of Himachal Pradesh is closely linked to its Hindu roots, and the region is home to some of the most important pilgrimage sites in india. Himachal Pradesh also offers a wealth of trekking opportunities, with challenging routes through the Himalayas and plenty of rewarding panoramas along the way.

Triund trek from Dharamshala truly unleashes the magic of the Himalayas and the Tirthan Valley hiking from Manali has the Best Himalayan Treks for Beginners with children.

Chitransh Jain | Unplash – Tirthan Valley

With its rich biodiversity, incandescent glaciers, and pristine lakes, the Himalayas are booming with trekkers from around the world.

Here are our recommendations for the 10 Best Himalayan Treks for 2023;

10 Best Himalayan Treks for 2023;

Best treks in Himachal Pradesh

1. Hampta Pass Trek

• Duration – 5 days
• Best time- Mid June to October
• Highest altitude – 14,000 feet
• Starting point – Manali
• Region – Himachal Pradesh

The Hampta Pass Trek is mainly through dense pine forest and rugged terrains until you reach the top point.

The awe-striking views make up for the hard work with spectacular valleys, snow-capped mountains, and lush green valleys. One side shows the green landscapes and the other displays Lahaul’s rugged terrains.

This route is ideal for both beginners and seasonal hikers.

Hampta Pass trek is one of the most beautiful himalayan treks in India and it leads you to Chandratal Lake which is formed by the confluence of Hampta, Rohtang, and Spiti Pass.

The surreal combination of Buddhist culture and remote villages is an unforgettable experience for anyone who ventures here and the 26 km trek is the perfect challenge for adventure lovers.

Not only does this easy trek through the Himalayas offer stunning views of Dhauladhar ranges and Pir Panjal, but it also provides plenty of opportunities to take dramatic and panoramic pictures.

You begin your journey from Manali early in the morning and drive for two hours to reach the Chika campsite.

On the second day, you’ll start trekking from the campsite through the rocky lands and grasslands. Rani Nallah is a small stream near Balu ka Ghera, which can be reached in about one hour of walking. There is a campsite there where you can spend the night.

On the next day you’ll walk to Shea Goru after crossing Hampta Pass which will take about six hours. On the fourth day, you’ll drive to Chandratal and stay in tents overnight. Then on the last day of trekking, you’ll finish by driving from Chatru to Manali.

2. Buran Ghati Trek

• Duration- 7 days
• Best time- May to June| September to October
• Highest altitude- 15000 feet
• Starting point- Janglik
• Region- Himachal Pradesh

The Buran Ghati trek is one of the best Himalayan treks in India for its stunning landscapes and views. Stretching between the scenic beauty of the mountains and thick pine forests, it offers hikers a challenging uphill climb through dense vegetation to reach the Dayara meadows and Litham. Along the way, hikers will be treated to majestic views of the Dhauladhar range lying in Kangra valley.

This incredible trek has many interesting places to visit, like the Buran Pass and Snow wall. Chandranahan Lake is a mystical place with glacial water that stays snow-covered all year round. Litham campsite is in the confluence of two valleys and is a stunning sight, and you will not want to miss the panoramic view of Kinner-Kailash from the pass top.

Trekking In Himachal Pradesh is always thrilling because of the high altitudes, magnificent lakes, lush valleys, and streams.

Drive to Janglik from Shimla on the first day. From Janglik, it’s a six hour journey to Dayara Thatch through high and low descents. After four hours of trekking through gradual ascent and descent covering 3km, you will reach Litham.

In the early morning, visit Chandernahan Lake, then, walk to Dhunda from Litham through steep ascents for about 6 hours until you reach Munirang via Buran Ghati Pass after 11 hard hours of trekking. There are campsites near the river where you can stay and rest overnight before your long journey back home on the last day. Drive back down to Shimla from Barua village.

3. Pin Bhaba Pass Trek

• Duration- 8 days
• Best time- June to October
• Highest altitude- 16100 feet
• Starting point- Kafnu
• Region- Himachal Pradesh

This trek can be broken down into two sections: the Bhabha side features dense alpine forests and green grasslands beside the Bhabha River. The hike concludes at Rohtang pass on the way to Manali, but not before you’re absolutely blown away by the scenery surrounding Kaza.

The main attractions near Mulling include the Bhaba Hydro Project and Hansbeshan. Trekkers also get views of Pin Bhaba, Nimish Khango Peak, and Pin River from the pass. Hikers can also visit Mudh village to see peas farming in action.

On day one, go to Kafnu from Shimla by road. It’s about 200 km and will take approximately eight hours. The next day, trek for nine hours on an 11km path to get to Mulling from Kafnu.

On the third day, travel five hours through rocky terrain until you reach Kara and camp near the lake there. Then Pushtirang is only a four hour journey if you’re trekking — it’s 5km total but over mud and stones so wearing good shoes is key!

After that descent 3km into Mangrungse before nightfall when you’ll stop at a guesthouse . Finally, Kaza is only an eight hour drive away if you start early in the morning on the last leg of your trip.

4. Rupin Pass Trek

• Duration- 7 days
• Best time- Mid May to Mid June and Mid September to Mid Oct
• Highest altitude- 15300 feet
• Starting point- Bawta
• Region- Himachal Pradesh

A Rupin Pass trek is one of the high altitude treks located in the Indian Himalayas near Sangla in Himachal. The route starts from green landscapes and gradually moves towards colder regions by the end.

Hikers can take in the awe-inspiring views of Jhaka village (the hanging village), a village built into the side of a cliff. The snow bridges provide hikers with different routes to explore and discover new areas. One popular attraction is the Kinnaur temple which is full of mountainous culture. There are also mesmerizing views of the Kinnaur-Kailash.

After driving for ten hours, you will reach Bawta. On the second day, you will trail for four hours until reaching Jhaka. From there, Dhanderas Thatch is only an 11km walk.

After lunch at Upper Waterfalls campsite and dinner that night, Ronti Gad is next; cross Rupin Pass to get there and set up camp for the night. The next day is a buffer day in case anyone needs rest. Finally on the last day, those who are feeling well enough can drive back to Shimla from Ronti Gad together.

5. Bhrigu Lake Trek

• Duration- 4 days
• Best time- May to October
• Highest altitude- 14000 feet
• Starting point- Manali
• Region- Himachal Pradesh

Bhrigu lake is one of the highest glacial lakes near Kullu valley in Himachal Pradesh, and it offers stunning views of the seven sister peaks. One of the best Himalayan Treks in India, it features lush alpine meadows with stretching grasslands that are perfect for a family getaway. It’s also one of the most accessible treks from Manali.

Bhrigu Lake, lush landscapes, and mountain ranges make this place popular among tourists. The lake water is jaw-dropping during sunrise and sunset when the rays hit the clear water. You’ll also experience stunning views of Deo Tibba or Dhauladhar Ranges on the four-day trek. You’ll be able to enjoy a winter wonderland experience by visiting Rola Kholi which has snow-covered landscapes.

You’ll start at Manali, drive to Gulaba and trek to Jonker Thatch. The drive will take around one and a half hours as will the trek. On the second day you’ll trek for 3 – 4 hours including some steep ascents and camp at Rola Kholi. Day 3 is a long day trekking from Rola Kholi to Bhrigu Lake and back, taking between 5 – 7 hours. On the last day you’ll trek back to Gulaba and drive back to Manali.

Best Treks in Uttarakhand

6. Kedarkantha Trek

• Duration- 6 days
• Best time- November to March
• Highest altitude- 12500 feet
• Starting point- Sankri
• Region- Uttarakhand

Journey through the Himalayan forests of Oak, Pine and Rhododendron trees; witness first-hand the beauty that has made other hikers fall in love with this place. Let nature surround you in silence as you trek towards Gangotri peaks – on your way, catch glimpses of some of Uttarakhand’s remote villages nestled away in the mountains. In just one trek, experience all that is beautiful about the Himalayas – from frozen lakes to a starry night sky.

The main attractions near the Kedarkantha base are the thick pine and oak forests. The dense forest gives an aura of nature that is unmatched. Sunsets from the trail near the Garhwal Himalayas give a molten golden color to the sky, making it a truly breathtaking experience.

After you arrive in Dehradun, drive towards Sankri for ten hours. After that, continue driving towards Juda ka Talab for five more hours before stopping to camp overnight. The next day, reach Kedarkantha Base Camp and stay there overnight again in tents.

Once you wake up the following morning, begin your ascent to the summit. By evening, walk to Hargaon where you will have dinner and spend another night in tents. Finally, on the last day descend through a pine forest back down to Sankri within four hours before making the ten-hour drive back to Dehradun.

7. Brahmatal Trek

• Duration- 6 days
• Best time- November to March
• Highest altitude- 12100 feet
• Starting point- Lohajung
• Region- Uttarakhand

Trekking in Uttarakhand is an experience like no other, with incredible views of mountains and glacial lakes. You can camp near the lakes and enjoy the snow-covered meadows. The dense pine forest is a dream come true for any nature lover. If you’re a beginner trekker, this is the perfect place to start your journey!

The main attraction of the Brahmatal lake is its location in the middle of dense oak and pine forests. Trekkers often pass through the Rhododendron forest situated near the lake.

Day 1: Start from the Kathgodam railway station and travel to Lohajung. Overnight stay in a guesthouse.

Day 2: Travel from Lohajung to Bekalta (5 hours; through villages). Stay overnight in tents.

Day 3: From Bekalta, start trekking towards Brahmatal after six hours (tent stay).

Day 4: Visit Brahmatal Top for 360-degree views. Then walk towards Khorurai and camp overnight (tent stay) .

Day 5: Walk from Khorurai back to Lohajung(4 hours); then return by train to Kathgodam station on the last day.

8. Har Ki Dun Trek

• Duration- 7 days
• Best time- April to June and September to November
• Highest altitude- 12000 feet
• Starting point- Sankri
• Region- Uttarakhand

The Garhwal region provides hikers with an accessible pathway to this heavenly place. Hikers see the alysome view of the Swargarohini peaks and Yamuna River while on their six-hour journey through snow-covered trails and alpine meadows. There are also historical visiting places located nearby.

The main attractions are the zip line near Sankri, Marinda Tal, and Swargarohini Peak. Hikers will also be able to see a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as many different types of birds in remote villages. Trekking in Uttarakhand is an ideal opportunity to take snaps on camera across village tourism.

Drive to Sankri from Dehradun and stay in the guesthouse overnight. The next day, drive for eight hours to Taluka and set up camp for the night. The trail starts from Chilurgad in the afternoon. After six hours of hiking, reach Simantra and set up camp for the night.

On the next day, start from Simantra and hike to Har ki Dun, arriving by early afternoon. Then hike back down to Chilurgad where you will spend another night camping. Finally, on your last day break down camp, head to Taluka, drive back to Sankri and then onwards to Dehradun.

9. Kuari Pass Trek

• Duration- 6 days
• Best time- November to March
• Highest altitude- 12700 feet
• Starting point- Joshimath
• Region- Uttarakhand

Starting in Dhak village, this winter expedition in the Himalayan Mountains continues to Kuari Pass. On the way, you’ll see peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kamet, and Chaukhamba. The trees during winter show contrasting yellow colors on the mountains. And if you’re looking for some adventure sports action, be sure to visit Auli for skiing fun!

The biggest draws to this beginner’s hike are the expansive meadows near the base of Dronagiri Mountain, and the Rhododendron forest. Hikers will also love adventuring in the snow on summit day to get unparalleled views of both the valley floor and Himalayan peaks. Seeing Nanda Devi up close is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The journey starts in Rishikesh and after a twelve hour drive arrives in Joshimath. Your overnight stay will be in a guesthouse with food and water included. The next day, there is a four-hour hike to Dhak then Gulling Top at 9600 feet where you will see mountain peaks like Dronagiri, Hathi Parvat, etc along the way.

That night’s accommodation will be in tents set up in the village. After another four hours of trekking, arrive at Khullara where you’ll spend the night again sleeping in tents, before continuing ten hours the next day towards Kuari Pass. Here you’ll experience oak and rhododendron covered mountain peaks including Ghori Parvat, Kedarnath Peak, Mukut Parvat & Nanda Devi. Stop for the night back at Khullara campsite before a seven hour hike to reach Joshimath via Gurson Bugyal in order to get to Auli. On the last day, you will then drive to Rishikesh.

10. Dayara Bugyal Trek

• Duration- 4 days
• Best time- November to March, April to June, and September to November
• Highest altitude- 12100 feet
• Starting point- Raithal
• Region- Uttarakhand

The Dayara Bugyal trek provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is accessible from Uttarkashi. You will walk through rocky terrain, forests of wild oak and pine, with occasional glimpses of Gangotri and Black Peak. Trekking in Uttarakhand is ideal for beginners who want to enjoy nature’s beauty while getting some exercise.

In the summer, trekkers can experience the yellow flowers and Rhododendron covers. You’ll also witness vast landscapes covered in snow. Autumn treks are ideal for spotting mountain peaks like Gangotri and Bandarpoonch mountains.

The itinerary for the trek is 4 days, starting from Dehradun. From curvy mountain roads with zig-zaggy roads to Raithal, the drive is beautiful and majestic. The campsite will be Gui Campsite where we will stay for 2 cozy nights.

Best Time To Trek In The Himalayas

Winter

Winter season starts from November to January when it gets colder. The trails remain less crowded because few trekkers hit the mountains.

Spring

If you’re looking to commune with nature, there’s no better place than the Indian Himalayas. You can trek for miles and marvel at the diverse range of plant-life, all while being surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. In late March or early April everything is in full bloom. And don’t worry about encountering too much snow – by that point in the season, most of it will have melted away.

Summer

Some trekkers hit the mountains during the summer to avoid the cold. This is also the season where you can see high levels of wildflowers. Because not many people go hiking in this season, there are less crowds overall.

Top 10 Best Himalayan Treks in India – Summary

The best Himalayan treks in India offer an incredible variety of top-notch experiences that you can cherish for a lifetime.

From the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas to the serenity and solitude of the high altitudes, trekking in India’s himalaya region provides something for every traveler.

Whether you prefer a longer backpacking adventure or a shorter trekking holiday, there is a himalayan route to suit your needs.

Some of the most popular himalayan treks include Kedarkantha Trek, Buran Ghati Trek, Bhrigu Lake Trek, Brahmatal Trek and Rupin Pass Trek. All these treks offer stunning views of the himalaya mountains and surrounding landscapes and provide travelers with an opportunity to explore picturesque villages and diverse cultures.

In addition to enjoying beautiful landscapes, trekkers can also witness some of India’s rarest wildlife species such as snow leopards, Himalayan musk deer, Bharal (blue sheep) and spectacular birds like monals.

Experienced guides are available at many himalayan destinations to ensure a safe and memorable journey, while basic facilities like toilets and food are provided along many routes.

With its majestic himalayas and fascinating cultures, himalayan treks in India are a must-do if you want to experience one of nature’s most stunning regions up close.