Are you a venturesome soul looking for a riveting expedition? One that gives you a stimulating experience for the rest of your life? How about trekking to the Himalayas and recharging your body, mind, and soul?
An enthralling escape to nature from the tedious routine of metropolitan cities—trekking gives you clarity, moments of self-reflection, and a sense of cultural understanding. It offers numerous health benefits and helps you live a longer, healthier life.
You will witness breathtaking views, capture the beauty of nature through your eyes, explore ancient walking trails, and discover untouched lakes and rivers.
Also Read: Five Hidden Treks in Uttarakhand for All Trek Lovers
To help you plan your adventurous journey, I have made a handpicked list of the 10 best treks in India for first-time trekkers.
Triund Trek
A single-day trek with a steady trail, it offers majestic views of the Dhauladhar mountain range and Kangra Valley. It is an easy grade trek because of its well-defined route, which makes it perfect for first-time trekkers.
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Extremely popular amongst mountain lovers, Triund Trek takes you through the dense forests surrounded by pine, oak, and rhododendron trees. You get a chance to witness the most memorable sunset and experience overnight camping with your friends.
- The ideal time for Triund Trek: March to June and September to November
- Base camp: Dharamshala
- Nearest airport: Gaggal Airport (located at a distance of 13 km from Dharamshala)
- Distance: 9 km
- Duration: 4-6 hours
Brahmatal Trek
One of the best winter treks in India, Brahmatal Trek is a perfect amalgamation of tranquility and adventure. Its easy trail and comfortable route make it ideal for first-time trekkers.
Imagine walking through rhododendron forests, lush green meadows, and glacial lakes while enjoying the magnificent views of the Trishul and Nandaghunti peaks. You can take breaks, stop by the local dhabas, and camp at Daldam.
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The highest point of Brahmatal Trek is Brahmatal Top which offers panoramic views of mountain ranges like Mt Hathi Ghoda and Mt Neelkanth.
- The ideal time for Brahmatal Trek: During winters (December to February)
- Base camp: Lohajung
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant
- Distance: 30 km
- Duration: 6 days
- Altitude: 12,600 ft
Nag Tibba Trek
Don’t have a prior experience in trekking? Delve in this simple trek in the Garwal region of Uttarakhand. It takes you through scenic landscapes and dense forests.
The tour offers a captivating 100-degree view of snow-capped Himalayan ranges like Gangotri, Kala Nag, Srikantha, Swargrohini, and Bandarpoonch.
You can enjoy the unforgettable sunset from the campsite, visit ancient temples, and get a glimpse of rare bird species like the Himalayan monal.
- The ideal time for Nag Tibba Trek: During winters (October to December) during summers (April to June)
- Base camp: Pantwari
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant
- Distance: 8 km
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Altitude: 9806 ft
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Indrahar Pass trek
A 5-day journey from Mcleodganj, Indrahar Pass is one of the most popular treks amongst adventure seekers and is famous for its mesmerizing trails and sand-covered terrain.
During your trip, you get to witness enchanting landscapes, pristine water lakes and walk through sparkling streams and deodar forests.
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You will cross several ancient villages, get a glimpse of the tranquil Kareri and Mankiani lakes, and enjoy views of the Dhauladhar range. If you want to spot different species of wildflowers, cross enthralling valleys and watch alluring sunsets, do take this hidden trek in Himachal.
- The ideal time for Indrahar Pass Trek: May to October
- Base camp: Mcleodganj
- Nearest airport: Kangra Airport
- Distance: 35 km
- Duration: 4 days
- Altitude: 14,245 ft
Hampta Pass Trek
A path that connects the alluring valleys of Kullu and Lahaul, this majestic trek takes you through hidden waterfalls, rhododendron forests, open meadows, and astonishing landscapes.
The changing terrain and breathtaking trail make it one of the most popular treks in India, especially for beginners.
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You will walk through alpine forests and witness enthralling views of numerous mountain ranges and glaciers along with several river streams that will make all the effort worth it. The trek ends at Chhatru, which offers a mystical view of the famous Spiti Valley.
- The ideal time for Hampta Pass Trek: May to October
- Base camp: Jobra
- Nearest airport: Bhuntar airport
- Distance: 20 km
- Duration: 5 days
- Altitude: 14,000 feet
Parashar Lake Trek
Another hidden hike in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, this trek takes you to the sacred and scenic Parashar Lake through dense forests, waterfalls, streams, and green meadows. The soft terrain makes it a perfect outing for those indulging in this activity for the first time.
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Known for offering the best view of the Dhauladhar range, this secret treasure in Himachal is a must-visit for all nature lovers. Don’t forget to click photos of the tranquil Parashar lake and visit the ancient Parashar Rishi Temple.
- The ideal time for Hampta Pass Trek: April to June and September to November
- Base camp: Baggi
- Nearest airport: Bhuntar airport
- Distance: 8 km
- Duration: 4 hours
- Altitude: 9,000 feet
Sham Valley trek
Also called Baby Trek, this hike takes you through the sham region of Ladakh and gives you a chance to discover ancient villages, visit prominent monasteries, walk amidst barren wilderness, and enjoy the spectacular landscape.
Imagine witnessing the beauty of the Tsermanchang La pass and Mebtak La while exploring villages like Temisgam, Ang, and Hemis Shukpachan. Sounds like a dream expedition, right?
- The ideal time for Sham valley trek: May to October
- Base camp: Leh
- Nearest airport: Leh Airport
- Distance: 32 km
- Duration: 3 days
- Altitude: 12,715 feet
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Kedarkantha Trek
A scenic trek near Uttarakhand’s Har ki dun valley, it takes you on a less traveled route. Observe the unmatchable beauty of nature by enjoying the views of picturesque rivers, snow-capped mountain peaks, snow-laden trails, and dense forests.
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You will witness ancient villages, majestic lakes, and Himalayan ranges during your journey. If you are an adventurous soul, you must take this enchanting trek with an easy trail.
- The ideal time for the Kedarkantha trek: December to March
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport
- Distance: 24 km
- Duration: 2 days
- Altitude: 12,500 ft
Kuari Pass Trek
Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, it is one of India’s most prominent trekking destinations. You will walk through ancient forests filled with rhododendrons, oak, and pine trees and spot rare bird species and wildlife.
Imagine sitting and enjoying the breathtaking views of famous mountain peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhaba, and Kamet. Makes you excited already, right?
- The ideal time for Kuari Pass Trek: September to November and April to June
- Base camp: Dhak
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun
- Distance: 33 km
- Duration: 4-5 days
- Altitude: 12,763 ft
Beas Kund Trek
Want to witness the fascinating beauty of the prominent Beas River and the spellbinding magic of the Beas Kund lake?
Go on this rejuvenating trek that starts from Solang Nallah and takes you through several river streams, glaciers, and strawberry fields. It offers enchanting views of peaks like Shitidhar, Hanuman Tibba, and Seven Sisters.
- The ideal time for the Beas Kund trek: May (mid) to October (mid)
- Nearest airport: Bhuntar
- Distance: 18 km
- Base camp: Solang Valley
- Duration: 4 days
- Altitude: 16,240ft
Final Takeaway
Trekking is not just a recreational activity but an experience that transforms lives. It boosts your physical and mental strength, helps you overcome your fears, and makes you challenge yourself.
Now is the time if you have never been on an adventurous trek. After all, we aren’t getting any younger, are we?
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