India is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and offers some of the best trekking experiences. India’s diverse terrain, from the high Himalayan peaks to dense forests, provides exciting opportunities for beginner trekkers. The country has an array of treks for all levels – from those that can be completed in a few days to those that take weeks or even months.
This blog will provide an overview of the 15 best treks in India for beginners, highlighting their difficulty level and features so you can find the perfect trek for your adventure.
So grab your trekking shoes and let’s explore the stunning landscapes India has to offer!
Kedarkantha Trek is a breathtaking adventure that takes you through the mesmerizing trails of the Himalayas. This trek is perfect for beginners who want to explore the rugged terrain of the mountains and witness the stunning beauty of nature.
Located in the Uttarakhand region, the Kedarkantha Trek is a popular winter destination that offers panoramic views of the snowy mountains, lush green forests, and quaint villages. The trek starts from Sankri and takes you through the Govind National Park, which is home to a variety of rare species of flora and fauna.
The trail to Kedarkantha is dotted with beautiful pine and oak forests that provide a refreshing atmosphere and scenic views. The trek is not very difficult and can be completed within 4-5 days. The summit of Kedarkantha offers a spectacular view of the surrounding peaks such as Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak.
The best time to embark on this trek is from December to April when the snow-covered landscape transforms into a winter wonderland. You can also witness the local culture and traditions of the people living in the nearby villages such as Saur, Juda-ka-Talab, and Taluka.
The Kedarkantha Trek is a great way to escape the monotonous city life and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the mountains. It is an ideal trek for beginners who want to experience the thrill of trekking in the Himalayas without exerting too much physical effort.
Hampta Pass Trek is one of the most popular treks in India, perfect for beginners who are looking to explore the beauty of the Himalayas. Located in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, this trek is a great option for those who want to experience the thrill of high-altitude trekking.
The trek starts from the beautiful town of Manali and takes you through lush green forests, quaint villages, and breathtaking landscapes. The highlight of the trek is crossing the Hampta Pass, which stands at an altitude of 14,100 feet. The trek also includes a visit to the stunning Chandratal Lake, which is situated at an altitude of 14,000 feet and is known for its clear blue waters.
The trek is relatively easy and can be completed in around 5-6 days. It offers stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and valleys, making it a photographer’s paradise. The best time to do this trek is during the months of June to October when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.
The first day of the trek involves a gentle hike from Manali to Jobra, which is situated at an altitude of 9,800 feet. The second day involves a steep climb to Jwara, which is situated at an altitude of 11,000 feet. The third day is the highlight of the trek as you cross the Hampta Pass and reach Balu Ka Gera, which is situated at an altitude of 12,500 feet. The fourth day involves a descent to Chatru, which is situated at an altitude of 11,000 feet. The final day involves a visit to the beautiful Chandratal Lake before heading back to Manali.
Valley of Flowers Trek is one of the most popular treks in India and is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, this stunning trek is a feast for the eyes with its colorful meadows blooming with a variety of flowers like blue poppies, Himalayan bellflowers, and Himalayan cobra lilies, among others.
The trek to the Valley of Flowers starts from Govindghat, which is about 20 km from Joshimath. From Govindghat, one needs to take a trek of about 16 km to reach Ghangaria, which is the base camp for the Valley of Flowers. The trek is moderate in difficulty and can be completed by beginners as well. The trail passes through lush green forests, gushing waterfalls, and picturesque villages, giving trekkers a glimpse of the local way of life.
Once trekkers reach Ghangaria, they can explore the beautiful village and acclimatize to the altitude before commencing the trek to the Valley of Flowers. The valley is located at an altitude of around 12,000 feet and is spread across an area of 87.5 sq. km. The trek from Ghangaria to the Valley of Flowers is a short but steep one, and trekkers need to be careful while navigating the rocky terrain.
Once trekkers reach the Valley of Flowers, they are greeted by a riot of colors as the meadows are carpeted with a variety of flowers. The valley is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and the sight of the colorful flowers against the backdrop of the majestic peaks is truly mesmerizing. Trekkers can spend several hours exploring the valley and admiring the beauty of this natural wonder.
Ghepan Ghat Lake Trek is a hidden gem in the Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh. This stunning glacial lake is located at an altitude of 4,140 m and is unknown to even many local guides. It’s a moderate-level trek that will challenge trekkers with its difficult river crossings and exposed terrain en-route to the lake.
The trek starts from Sissu village located 40 km away from Manali and takes you through a 6 km route with changing landscapes and colorful patches of flowers. As you reach the lake, you witness a long inky blue lake closed on all sides by mountains — like an open cave. The view of this tranquil neon-blue glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains is simply breathtaking!
The trek also offers great opportunities for photography enthusiasts as well as bird watchers. You can spot various species of birds such as Himalayan Monal, Kalij Pheasant, Grey Wagtail, Red Billed Choughs and more. The best time to visit Ghepan Ghat Lake Trek is between April to June or September to October when the weather conditions are favorable for trekking.
Ghepan Ghat Lake Trek is definitely one of the best treks in India for beginners due to its moderate difficulty level and the spectacular views it offers along the way. So if you’re looking for an adventure-filled experience with beautiful sights, then Ghepan Ghat Lake Trek should be on your list!
Brahmatal Trek is one of the best treks in India for beginners who are looking to explore the beauty of the Himalayan Mountains. This trek is located in Uttarakhand and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. The Brahmatal Trek is a moderate trek that takes you through forests, meadows, and mountain passes.
The trek begins from Lohajung, which is a small town located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. From there, you will trek through lush green forests filled with oak and rhododendron trees, which leads you to Bekaltal Lake. The lake is nestled between the mountains and offers a mesmerizing view of the surroundings.
As you continue your trek, you will cross the Telandi ridge and reach Brahmatal Lake, which is the highlight of the trek. The lake is located at an altitude of 12,100 feet and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The view of the lake is breathtaking, especially during sunrise and sunset when the colors of the sky change dramatically.
The Brahmatal Trek is a great option for beginners as it offers a mix of adventure and leisure. The trek is not too strenuous, but it still provides a good workout. You will get to experience the thrill of trekking through the mountains while also enjoying the serene beauty of the surroundings.
One of the best things about the Brahmatal Trek is that it is open throughout the year. In winter, the trek is covered in snow, which makes it even more beautiful. During this time, you will need to be extra careful as the trail can be slippery. However, with the right gear and guidance, you can have an unforgettable experience trekking in the snow.
Sham Valley Trek is one of the 15 best treks in India for beginners. It is a popular trekking route that takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Ladakh region of India. This trek is perfect for those who are looking for a short and easy trekking experience.
The Sham Valley Trek starts from Likir village, which is situated at an altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level. From here, you will be traversing through the beautiful landscapes of the Ladakh region, including lush green valleys, rocky terrains, and snow-capped mountains. The trek is suitable for all age groups and fitness levels, as it involves an average of 4-5 hours of walking each day.
During the Sham Valley Trek, you will get to witness the traditional Ladakhi way of life and culture. You will be staying in homestays or camping in the villages, which provides a unique opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their customs and traditions. You will also get to visit some of the famous monasteries of the region, such as the Likir Monastery, Alchi Monastery, and Basgo Monastery, which are known for their stunning architecture and rich history.
One of the highlights of the Sham Valley Trek is the visit to the ancient village of Tingmosgang. This village is known for its beautiful architecture and is considered to be one of the most picturesque villages in the Ladakh region. The village is home to the Tangtse Monastery, which is famous for its exquisite frescoes and paintings.
Kuari Pass Trek is an ideal choice for beginners who want to experience the thrill of trekking in the Himalayas. The trek is located in Uttarakhand and offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush green meadows, and dense forests.
The trek starts from Joshimath and takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the Garhwal region. The trail passes through small villages, and oak and rhododendron forests, and opens up to vast meadows which are a trademark of the Kuari Pass Trek. The trek reaches its highest point at Kuari Pass, which offers panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Kamet, and other major peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas.
One of the highlights of the Kuari Pass Trek is the opportunity to camp under the stars. The campsites are located in stunning locations with panoramic views of the Himalayas. You can enjoy bonfires, star gazing, and making new friends with your fellow trekkers.
The best time to do the Kuari Pass Trek is from April to June and September to November. The weather is pleasant during these months, and the views are breathtaking. However, it is important to be well-prepared for the trek as the weather can be unpredictable in the Himalayas.
The Kuari Pass Trek is a great choice for beginners as it is not too strenuous and can be completed in 6-7 days. However, it is still important to be physically fit and mentally prepared for the challenges of trekking in the mountains.
If you are looking for a trek that showcases the natural beauty of India, then the Dayara Bugyal Trek should be on your list. This trek is perfect for beginners as it has a moderate level of difficulty and offers some of the most scenic views in the country.
Located in the state of Uttarakhand, the Dayara Bugyal Trek is a 5-day trek that takes you through lush green meadows, dense forests, sparkling streams, and snow-capped mountains. The trek starts from the village of Barsu and takes you to the Dayara Bugyal, which is a high-altitude meadow at an elevation of 3408 meters.
The trek begins with a gradual climb through oak and rhododendron forests, which lead to a steep ascent to the Barnala Tal. The lake is a perfect spot for a lunch break and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. From here, the trail continues through dense forests and beautiful meadows until you reach the Dayara Bugyal.
Once you reach the meadow, you will be greeted by a vast expanse of greenery and panoramic views of the Himalayas. The meadow is surrounded by towering peaks like Bandarpoonch, Srikanth, and Gangotri. The best time to visit Dayara Bugyal is in the months of May to November when the meadows are covered in wildflowers and the weather is pleasant.
One of the highlights of this trek is camping at the high-altitude meadow under a starry sky. The experience is surreal and something that you will cherish for a long time. Additionally, the Dayara Bugyal Trek is a great way to experience the local culture of Uttarakhand. You will pass through several small villages where you can interact with locals and learn about their way of life.
Deo Tibba Base Camp Trek is one of the best treks in India for beginners who want to experience the thrill of trekking in the Himalayas. Located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, this trek offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
The trek starts from Jagatsukh village, which is located about 6 km from Manali. From here, you will trek through lush green forests, meadows, and streams to reach Chikka, the first campsite. The trail passes through the Solang Valley and offers breathtaking views of the Beas Kund glacier.
On the second day, you will trek to Seri, which is famous for its beautiful meadows surrounded by towering mountains. The trek to Seri is a bit challenging as it involves steep climbs and descents. However, the stunning views of the snow-capped peaks make it all worth it.
The third day of the trek takes you to Tainta, a small village located at the base of Deo Tibba mountain. This is the highest point of the trek, and you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
On the fourth day, you will trek back to Chikka and then to Jagatsukh village. The entire trek takes about 4-5 days to complete, and it is an ideal choice for beginners who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without undertaking a very challenging trek.
The best time to undertake this trek is from May to November when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. However, it is advisable to check the weather conditions before embarking on the trek as the weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable.
Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek is a mesmerizing trekking trail located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the most beautiful and scenic treks in India, perfect for beginners who are looking for an adventure amidst nature’s bounty. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas, meadows, and lush green forests.
The trek commences from Lohajung, a small village located at an altitude of 7,700 feet. The initial trail passes through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and deodar trees, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna. One can spot rare bird species such as Monal and Koklass during this part of the trek. As you climb higher, the trail opens up to the vast meadows of Ali and Bedni Bugyal, which are known for their panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
The trek takes around 5-6 days to complete, covering a distance of around 20 km. It involves moderate-level trekking, making it ideal for beginners. The best time to undertake the trek is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and the meadows are covered with wildflowers.
The highlight of the trek is the Ali Bedni Bugyal campsite. The campsite is situated at an altitude of 11,000 feet and offers stunning views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks. The night sky here is lit up with millions of stars, making it a perfect place for stargazing. The campsite also has a temple dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi, which is revered by the locals.
The trek ends with a visit to the Bedni Kund, a crystal-clear lake located near the Bedni Bugyal meadow. The lake is believed to be sacred and has mythological significance. The trek back to Lohajung takes around 4-5 hours.
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly trek in India that offers stunning scenery, cultural experiences, and a sense of adventure, the Kheerganga Trek is an excellent choice. Located in Himachal Pradesh, this trek takes you through lush forests, streams, waterfalls, and natural hot springs.
The trek starts from the village of Barshaini and takes approximately 4-5 hours to reach Kheerganga. The trail is well-defined and not too challenging, making it perfect for those who are new to trekking. Along the way, you’ll pass through several charming villages where you can interact with locals and get a taste of their culture and way of life.
Once you reach Kheerganga, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The highlight of this trek is the natural hot springs that are believed to have healing properties. You can take a dip in these hot springs and soak in the warm, therapeutic waters while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
The Kheerganga Trek is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature. It’s a relatively short trek that can be completed in two days, making it ideal for those with limited time. The best time to go on this trek is from March to June and from September to November when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.
In terms of accommodation, there are several guesthouses and campsites along the way where you can spend the night. Many of these places offer basic amenities like food, water, and electricity, so you don’t have to worry about carrying too much gear.
Nag Tibba Trek is a perfect trek for beginners who are looking to explore the mountains and enjoy the scenic beauty of nature. The trek is located in the Garhwal Himalayas, which is one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in India.
The Nag Tibba Trek starts from the small village of Pantwari, which is located near Dehradun. The trek is a 2-day trek and is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. The trail is well-marked and can be easily navigated, making it an ideal trek for beginners.
The trek takes you through dense forests, meadows, and beautiful streams. You will also get to see stunning views of the Himalayan range, including Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Kedarnath, and Gangotri.
The highlight of the Nag Tibba Trek is the summit climb, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The summit is at an altitude of 9,915 feet and takes around 4-5 hours to reach from the base camp. The summit climb is a moderate-level trek and requires some physical fitness and endurance.
During the trek, you will get to experience the local culture and cuisine of the Garhwal region. You will stay in tents at the base camp and enjoy delicious meals prepared by the local guides.
Bhrigu Lake Trek is an ideal destination for beginners as it is a relatively easy trek that offers scenic beauty and adventure. Located near Manali in Himachal Pradesh, Bhrigu Lake at an elevation of 14,100 feet above sea level, is a glacial lake that is believed to have been named after the famous sage Bhrigu.
The trek to Bhrigu Lake starts from the base camp at Gulaba, which is about an hour’s drive from Manali. The trek is about 6-7 km long and takes about 4-5 hours to complete. The initial trail is through dense forests of oak and pine trees, which gradually give way to open meadows filled with wildflowers. The breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains, the lush green valleys, and the glistening streams make the trek an unforgettable experience.
The climb to the top can be a little challenging, but the panoramic view of the Bhrigu Lake surrounded by snow-clad mountains makes it all worth it. The lake is said to change its colors every now and then, adding to the mystique of this serene place. The lake is also considered sacred by the locals, and many devotees take a dip in its waters during the annual Bhrigu Lake festival.
The best time to do the Bhrigu Lake trek is from May to mid-June and from September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. However, it is advisable to check the weather conditions before embarking on the trek as the region is prone to sudden changes in weather.
Phulara Ridge Trek is one of the best treks in India for beginners. Located in Uttarakhand, this trek offers a moderate level of difficulty and takes around 2-3 days to complete. The highlight of the trek is the Phulara Ridge, a narrow and steep trail that runs along the edge of the ridge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
The trek starts from Sankri village and passes through dense forests, meadows, and streams before reaching Phulara Ridge. As you ascend higher, you will be rewarded with stunning views of snow-capped mountains. At its highest point, you will be at an altitude of 12,000 feet above sea level.
On this trek though, you’re at a high point for a day’s worth of trek (4-5 hours!). You can also explore some nearby villages to get a glimpse into local culture and lifestyle.
The Phulara Ridge Trek is ideal for both experienced hikers as well as beginners who want to experience the beauty of nature in India’s Himalayas. It is an excellent opportunity to get away from your daily routine and explore some breathtaking landscapes while challenging yourself physically and mentally.
Chopta Chandrashila Trek is the perfect choice for beginners who are looking to explore the Himalayas in India. This trek offers stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and the lush green valleys, making it one of the most popular treks in the country.
The trek starts from Chopta, a small village located in Uttarakhand. The village is surrounded by dense forests of oak, pine, and deodar trees, which make for a picturesque setting. The trek to Chandrashila peak begins from Chopta and takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region.
The trek is relatively easy and can be completed within four days. On the first day, you will trek from Chopta to Tungnath, which is the highest Shiva temple in the world. The trek will take you through a dense forest of rhododendron trees, which are in full bloom during spring. The temple is located at an altitude of 3,680 meters and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
On the second day, you will trek to Chandrashila peak, which is located at an altitude of 4,130 meters. The trek is steep and challenging, but the stunning views of the Himalayan range make it all worth it. From the top, you can see the peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.
On the third day, you will trek back to Chopta, with a stop at Deoria Tal. Deoria Tal is a serene lake located at an altitude of 2,438 meters. The lake offers stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains and is a great place to relax and unwind.
Exploring India’s natural beauty on foot is a great way to experience the country in an intimate and memorable way. Whether you are looking for something easy, moderate, or challenging, there are plenty of treks available that will suit your needs.
We hope this list has given you some ideas about where to start when it comes to trekking in India as a beginner.
Keep exploring, stay safe, and let us know which one was your favorite!
