An Overview Of India's Best Hiking Trails

India is an incredible destination for lovers of the outdoors, with stunning mountains and lush forests all around. During the monsoon season, these natural wonders come to life – it's a perfect time to explore them!

Given the familiarity of the terrain and the ideal monsoon weather, India has some excellent trails for hikers of all levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced outdoor enthusiast, there's something here for everyone.

 From easy treks that are suitable for beginners up to experienced hikers looking for something more challenging, here's an overview of some of India's best hiking trails.

Pangarchulla Peak Trek, Uttarakhand

The Pangarchulla Peak Trek in Uttarakhand is one of the most popular hikes in India. With its breathtaking views of the Himalayas and alpine meadows full of wildflowers, this trek offers a great balance between challenge and reward. It involves a moderate-difficulty ascent up to the summit at 4500 meters above sea level and offers spectacular views of the Garhwal Himalayan range.

Goecha La Trek, Sikkim

The Goecha La Trek is one of the most beautiful treks in India. It offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga peak and passes through several high-altitude meadows and forests. During the trek, you will also get to see a wide variety of wildlife, including snow leopards, red pandas, and blue sheep. The entire route takes about 8 days to complete and involves an ascent up to 4500 meters above sea level - definitely not for beginners!

Kheerganga Trek, Himachal Pradesh

The Kheerganga Trek is one of the most popular treks in Himachal Pradesh. It is relatively easy and can be completed in just two days, making it ideal for beginners. The trek takes you through lush forests and stunning meadows, culminating in a hot springs pool at the top. Here, you can take a dip to relax your tired muscles after all that hiking!

Valley Of Flowers Trek, Uttarakhand

The Valley of Flowers Trek is one of India's most picturesque hikes. Passing through valleys full of wildflowers and snow-capped peaks, this trek is perfect for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience. It involves a moderate-difficulty ascent up to 4200 meters above sea level and offers stunning views of the Garhwal Himalayan range.

Deoria Tal and Chandrashila Trek, Uttarakhand

The Deoria Tal and Chandrashila Trek is one of the most challenging treks in India. It involves a steep ascent up to 4000 meters above sea level, with spectacular views of the Himalayas along the way. This trek also passes through several dense forests and high-altitude meadows, making it an ideal choice for experienced hikers looking for a real challenge.

Chembra Peak, Kerala

Down south, the Chembra Peak in Kerala is one of India's most beautiful hikes. It involves a moderate-difficulty ascent up to the summit, with spectacular views of rolling hills along the way. It is the tallest summit in Kerala at 2100 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Embark on a picturesque journey through the captivating greenery of deep forests, rolling tea plantations, and aromatic coffee and spice farms that offer unique bouquets of pepper and cardamom.

Triund trek, Himachal Pradesh

For those wishing to discover the mesmerizing beauty of the Himalayas, look no further than Triund Trek. This accessible route all year round follows a well-trodden path used by local shepherds and begins at Galu Temple in Dharamkot, situated nearby McLeod Ganj - home to the Tibetan Government-in-Exile. For your convenience, buses run up from Dharamsala valley straight into Mcleod Ganj daily! For hikers seeking a more immersive experience, tents, and sleeping bags can be rented at the summit campsite so that you may spend an evening admiring the star-speckled night sky above while mesmerizingly watching Kangra Valley’s twinkling lights below. Whether it's one day or two, the Triund trek is certainly worth exploring!

Tadiandamol trek, Karnataka

For those looking for a more laid-back trekking experience, head to the Tadiandamol Trek in Karnataka. This moderate trek takes you through lush forests of evergreen and deciduous trees, grassy plains, and wildflowers. The trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills, along with glimpses of local wildlife and traditional villages. At the summit sits an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which makes for a rewarding finish!

Hampta Pass trek, Himachal Pradesh 

Start your journey by strolling along what was once a shepherd trail and later an ancient trading route - the Kullu Valley. Ascend to Hampta Pass (14,009ft) as you travel past lush green meadows into the old Hindu and Buddhist valley of Lahaul, serving as a gateway to Ladakh. Prepare yourself for rugged beauty on this stirring hike! The panoramic views of the Lahaul Valley from atop the pass will leave you breathless and with memories that last a lifetime! Don't forget to bring along an extra camera memory card - trust us, you'll need it. Upon completing your hike at Chhatru, travel down a picturesque dirt track that leads to Chandra Taal (Moon Lake), located high in altitude at 4250m (13,944ft).

Khaliya Top, Uttarakhand

Explore the enchanting beauty of Uttarakhand with a trek to Khaliya Top, located at an altitude of around 3600 meters above sea level. Admire the stunning landscape as you pass through meadows, streams, and rhododendron forests. Keep your eyes peeled for wild animals and birds along the way! The majestic views from Khaliya Top will make this journey one you'll never forget. The route is clearly marked, although it has several challenging ascents. As you continue to advance through the trail, dazzling views of both the Panchachuli and Nanda Devi ranges appear before your eyes, becoming even more spectacular with every step you take!

Factors to Keep in Mind When Hiking in India

India is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. While embarking on an adventure of this kind, it is important to pay attention to your safety and health at all times. Carry enough water to last you throughout the hike, as well as snacks and energy bars for extra fuel. Make sure you have adequate protection from the sun, such as sunglasses and a hat, and wear light-colored clothing made of breathable fabric, which makes it easier to stay cool during hot summer days. Furthermore, always let someone know where you are going and when you plan on returning so that they can contact help if need be!

Most importantly, if you are heading out during the monsoons, be sure to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Carry raincoats, Rain Jackets, umbrellas, and waterproof bags to keep your belongings safe from the rain. Additionally, be aware of the possibility of landslides and other risks that come with wet terrain, and never attempt to cross a swollen stream or river.

Conclusion

With India offering countless outdoor opportunities like these, why not choose your own adventure this monsoon season? Whether you’re interested in tackling a challenging trek or just want to take the more relaxed route, there is something for everyone. So get out and explore!

Happy Hiking!