India’s 10 Must-Do Treks: Himalaya To Western Ghats

OT Staff & Waquar Habib

Kedarkantha, Uttarakhand

Kedarkantha’s snow-covered trails offer pine forests, scenic summit views, and cosy campsites at 3,810 metres. Ideal for beginners, the trek is best done between December and March.

A trekker at Kedarkantha | trekkersofindia/instagram

Goecha La, Sikkim

This high-altitude trek rewards trekkers with majestic views of Kangchenjunga, rhododendron forests, and alpine lakes. Starting from Yuksom, it’s suited for experienced adventurers seeking Himalayan grandeur.

Trekkers along the Goecha La route | @AdventureNcom/x

Hampta Pass, Himachal Pradesh

Connecting Kullu and Lahaul valleys, this scenic trail transitions from green meadows to arid mountains. Expect river crossings, glacier views, and thrilling five-day itineraries from Manali.

View of Hampta Pass | Shutterstock

Roopkund, Uttarakhand

Famous for its mysterious Skeleton Lake, Roopkund offers alpine meadows, rugged ascents, and views of Trishul peaks. A challenging route ideal for seasoned trekkers.

Roopkund trek paths | Wikimedia Commons

Chadar Trek, Ladakh

Walk across the frozen Zanskar River during Ladakh’s harsh winter. Known for icy beauty and extreme conditions, this trek demands physical fitness and guided support.

People spanning the Chadar trek | Shutterstock

Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this alpine meadow bursts into bloom between July and August. The moderate trail offers a blend of adventure and serene beauty.

Trek site of Valley of Flowers | indians/instagram

Markha Valley, Ladakh

Combining desert landscapes and Himalayan passes, this trek passes through remote villages and monasteries. It’s perfect for those seeking solitude and authentic Ladakhi culture.

Markha Valley trek, Ladakh | hippie_in_hills/instagram

Chembra Peak, Kerala

Wayanad’s Chembra Peak features lush forests, a heart-shaped lake, and sweeping Western Ghats views. A short but rewarding trail, ideal for beginners and couples.

Views along Chembra Peak, Kerala | thedhruvbhende/instagram

Kumara Parvatha, Karnataka

Karnataka’s toughest trek ascends through dense forests and ridgelines of the Western Ghats. The panoramic views and challenging climbs make it a favourite among seasoned trekkers.

Majestic kallu Mantapa of Kumara Parvatha trek trail | backpackers_united_/instagram

Sandakphu, West Bengal

Known as the “Trekker’s Wonderland,” Sandakphu offers views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu. Tea-house stays and rhododendron trails enhance this scenic experience.

Views along the Sandakphu trek | Shutterstock

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