8 Must-Visit Mountain Destinations for Trekking Enthusiasts

If you also love the great outdoors and have a knack for hiking through those majestic mountains, then please keep reading!

Trekking holds a different meaning for everyone. Some trek to witness the amazing scenery, some trek to experience the thrill of passing through the most challenging routes while for some, it’s all about the accomplishment of reaching the destination.

But no matter the reason, trekking is one of those activities that fill you with a sense of fulfillment and pride. And India has got some of the most breathtaking trekking routes that every trekker should explore at least once in a lifetime. 

In this blog, we will be discussing about the eight most famous trekking destinations in India

1. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

If you’re someone who loves walking through the colors of nature, then the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand should be on your bucket list. 

This UNESCO World Heritage site with a vast meadow blooming with vibrant wildflowers, set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks is no less than a paradise for nature lovers.

The trek to the valley starts from the quaint village of Govindghat and takes you through beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and serene rivers of the region. 

The trek is moderately challenging, hence both beginners and experienced trekkers can experience it. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season (July to September) when the flowers are in full bloom, painting the valley in hues you never knew existed.

• Distance: 42 Km

• Duration: 6-7 days   

• Level: Moderate

2. Hampta Pass, Himachal Pradesh

Hampta Pass is a trek that offers a little bit of everything – lush green valleys, dense forests, rivers, and ultimately, a stark contrast of widespread barren landscapes. 

Starting from the scenic town of Manali, the trek takes you through the beautiful Kullu Valley and into the parched landscapes of Lahaul and Spiti. 

The pass, perched at an altitude of 14,100 feet, provides panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. But what will keep you hooked are the changing landscapes throughout the trek, each of which brings a new kind of beauty.

If you’re planning a summer trek, June to September is the best time to experience Hampta Pass in all its glory.

• Distance: 26 Km

• Duration: 9 days

• Level: Moderate 

3. Roopkund, Uttarakhand

Roopkund, often known as the ‘Mystery Lake‘, is famous for its skeletal remains that date back to the 9th century. 

This high-altitude trek is perfect for those who enjoy a good mystery along with their adventure. The trail takes you through dense forests, some wonderful, picturesque meadows, and snow-clad mountains, leading to the mysterious Roopkund Lake. 

Standing at an elevation of 16,499 feet, the lake is surrounded by rock-strewn glaciers and snowy peaks. 

If you are planning for a trek to Roopkund Lake, make sure to visit between May and June or September and October when the weather is favorable and the snow has melted enough to reveal all that’s there in the lake.

• Distance: 53 Km

• Duration: 8 days

• Level: Moderate

4. Kinner Kailash, Himachal Pradesh

Kinner Kailash is famously known for its religious significance and the breathtaking views it offers. 

The trek starts from the charming village of Kalpa and passes through lush forests, vibrant meadows, and serene streams. It finally takes you to the Kinner Kailash Shiva Lingam, which is an enormous 24-meter vertical rock formation that resembles a Shivling and is considered sacred by the locals. 

Talking of the trail, know that it is a bit challenging and involves steep ascents and rocky paths. And what adds on to the difficulty are the unpredictable weather conditions. 

However, the sense of accomplishment you feel upon reaching the end and the spiritual aura of the place, make it all worthwhile. The best time to undertake this trek is from June to September when the weather is relatively stable.

• Distance: 62 Km

• Duration: 6-8 days

• Level: Difficult

5. Shepherd Trail, Himachal Pradesh

The Shepherd Trail, also known as the Gaddi Trek, is a beautiful, secluded gem in Himachal Pradesh. This offbeat trek takes you through the less-explored regions of the Dhauladhar Range, offering a glimpse into the life of the Gaddi shepherds. 

The trail starts from the quaint village of Bara Bhangal and walks you through dense forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes. 

But the main highlight of the trek is crossing the Kalihani Pass, which stands at an altitude of 15,500 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. 

The best time to go for this trek is from May to October when the weather is favorable and the paths are accessible.

• Distance: 140 Km

• Duration: 16 days

• Level: Moderate

6. Brahmatal, Uttarakhand

Brahmatal is a relatively lesser-known trek in Uttarakhand that offers a perfect blend of adventure and peace. 

The trek takes you to the wonderful Brahmatal Lake, which is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense forests. 

The trail starts from the village of Lohajung and takes you through enchanting oak and rhododendron forests, open meadows, and open, scenic campsites. 

But the real thing comes up when you reach the Brahmatal Lake – the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti is something you might have never witnessed before.  

However, if you want to get this experience, make sure to plan your visit from December to February for a winter experience. Apart from this, the months from March to May also make for a great summer adventure.

• Distance: 30 Km

• Duration: 6 Days

• Level: Easy to Moderate

7. Kashmir Great Lakes, Jammu and Kashmir

The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a beautiful journey that walks you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Kashmir Valley. 

The trek takes you to several high-altitude alpine lakes, each of which is just more beautiful than the last. The trail starts from the village of Sonamarg and takes you through lush meadows, dense forests, and high mountain passes. 

But the main highlight of the trek is reaching the stunning lakes such as Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, and Gangbal, wherein you can see a clear reflection of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. 

The best time to go on this trek is from July to September when the meadows are in full bloom and the weather is quite favorable.

• Distance: 75 Km 

• Duration: 7 days

• Level: Moderate to difficult 

8. Chadar Trek, Ladakh

The Chadar Trek is unlike any other trek in India, offering an experience that is truly out of this world. On this winter trek, you’ll be walking on the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh, where temperatures can drop as low as -30 degrees Celsius. The trail takes you through breathtaking icy landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and caves. 

But remember that it’s a challenging trek that requires mental and physical endurance. However, the surreal beauty and the unique experience make it all worth it at the end. 

The best time to undertake the Chadar Trek is in January and February when the ice is thick enough to walk on safely.

• Distance: 105 Km

• Duration: 13 days

• Level: Moderate to Challenging 

Takeaway

Trekking in India brings you a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. And no matter whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just starting out with your first trek, there’s a trail out there that will captivate your heart and challenge your spirit. 

So pack your bags, lace up your trekking boots, and set out on an adventure that you’ll remember for a lifetime.