With its blend of nature and culture, India’s many trekking routes offer a wide range of experiences. From the Himalayas in the north to the Western Ghats in the south, every trek has something different. Trekking is one of the best ways to take in the country’s landscapes, mountains and culture. Here are some of the best treks across India.
Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
Difficulty: easy to moderate
This valley takes its name from the many wildflowers that bloom across it. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the trek runs about 55 km to a high point of 3,658 metres. Ringed by snow-capped peaks and carpeted in flowers, it starts at Govindghat, via Joshimath, with a steep climb near Ghangaria. Along the way you pass the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers, which meet to form the Ganges at Devprayag. High up, at around 14,400 feet, sits a clear mountain lake, one of the finest sights here. It is a rewarding walk, and suitable for trekkers of all ages.
Sandakphu, West Bengal
Difficulty: moderate
The Sandakphu trek winds through the country around Darjeeling and is one of the finest in India. Sandakphu, the highest point in West Bengal, is known as the trekkers’ wonderland, with views of four of the five highest peaks in the world. There are two routes, via Tonglu or via Phalut. The 51-km trek takes its name, meaning “height of the poison plant,” from the Himalayan cobra lilies along it. The going is considered hard, so trekkers should be fully fit, but the reward is wide views of valleys and slopes dotted with magnolias, rhododendrons and primulas. Another highlight is Kalapokhri, the black pond, held holy by Buddhists.
Dzukou Valley, Nagaland
Difficulty: moderate to difficult
Nagaland is often called the Switzerland of the East, and for good reason: the Dzukou Valley and Japfu Peak offer some of the finest views in India. The valley lies at the foot of a volcanic crater, at about 2,450 metres. Starting at Dimapur, you pass through villages and towns, meet local people, try the food and get a feel for the region’s culture. The trek gives wide views of rolling hills and a valley carpeted with flowers. It is steep and testing in places, but the views along the way make it worthwhile.
Har ki Doon, Uttarakhand
Difficulty: easy to moderate
This trail in the Garhwal mountains passes through forest rich in wildlife. The region has a strong link to mythology and to many stories of the Mahabharata. The cradle-shaped valley reaches about 3,566 metres, and its gentle ascents and descents make it a good choice for beginners. Forests of deodar, chestnut and sycamore line the route, and with views of the snow-covered Himalayas, mountain streams and waterfalls, it is one of the finest treks in Uttarakhand.
Stok Kangri, Ladakh
Difficulty: hard
At 6,153 metres, Stok Kangri is one of the highest trekkable peaks in India, and a route for experienced trekkers. The nine-day trip starts at Leh and passes green fields, cold rivers and glaciers, with a steep final climb to the summit ridge that needs some technical skill. From the top you can see the whole Zanskar and Indus valleys. (Note: Stok Kangri has been closed to trekkers since 2020, to let the fragile mountain recover, so check whether it has reopened before planning a climb.)
Chadar, Ladakh
Difficulty: moderate to hard
Also known as the Zanskar trek, this is a walk over the frozen Zanskar River. It takes you through remote country, icy paths and bitter cold; the region records some of the lowest temperatures in India, which makes the Chadar one of the coldest treks anywhere. It starts at Chilling and goes to Lingshed, walking across the frozen river. There is little climbing, and the high point is only around 3,390 metres, but the sub-zero temperatures make it demanding. The experience, walking the frozen river beneath the mountains of Ladakh, is unlike any other.
Pin Parvati Pass, Himachal Pradesh
Difficulty: hard
This trek passes waterfalls, meadows and a glacier, reaching about 5,320 metres. From the pastures of the Parvati Valley to the Buddhist villages of Spiti, it takes you through changing landscapes, cultures and vegetation. It starts at Barsheni, through the forest around Kheerganga, and on to Mantalai Lake. Best done between June and September, it crosses from the green Parvati side to the cold, high Spiti side. After a hard day, the hot spring at Kheerganga is a rare treat on a trek. The 11-day route ends at Manali.
Markha Valley, Ladakh
Difficulty: moderate
One of the most popular trails in Ladakh, this trek passes dry mountains, streams, Buddhist villages, high passes and wide canyons. Through Sara, Skiu, Chilling, Nimaling and Hankar you come across old forts, temples and monasteries. The trail gives views of peaks such as Kang Yatse and Stok Kangri, and of the Zanskar range. It has some steep sections, but rewards you with the colourful landscapes of “Little Tibet.” The 65-km walk starts at Leh and crosses two passes, the Ganda La and Kongmaru La.
Kudremukh, Karnataka
Difficulty: moderate
Known for the distinctive shape of its peak, Kudremukh is one of the highest in Karnataka, at about 1,900 metres. The green meadows of the Western Ghats are a fine sight, and the trek gives wide views of the region. It starts gently but grows steeper towards the summit, passing through dense forest and streams. The grasslands hold plenty of wildlife, and you may spot the odd peacock or sambar deer. Trekkers also enjoy camping and campfires along the way. For a walk in southern India with a strong sense of local culture, this is a fine choice.
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