If you are an aspiring trekker then there is no better place to hone your trekking skills than the stunning Himalayan Range. Come winter and you will find the mountain range covered in a blanket of snow which in turn attracts trekkers from across the globe. Apart from the majestic scenery that seems to stretch for as far as one can see, the trekkers are also taken in by the fact that the region has some of the most memorable treks which are ideal for first timers. These treks snake through lush meadows, glistening lakes and glaciers, and present before you a world that is such a stark contrast to your life in the city. While you trek through these amazing treks, don’t forget to halt for a while and just savor the deafening silence, the sporadic sound made by the sudden rapture of a branch breaking the pervading silence, or the chirping of birds which fills the air with life and heavenly vibes.
You must now be having a mental picture of what awaits you in this amazing place. To make things easier for you, here is a list of easy treks –in no particular order- in the region that you can choose from:
• Chopta Tunganath: This trek takes you to the highest Shiva temple in the world, the Tungnath Temple which is perched at an altitude of 3,680 m (12,073 ft) above sea level. Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, the trek frequently features in the favorite list of trekkers as much for its incredible beauty as for the panoramic views it provides of the Panchachuli, Nanda Devi and Kedarnath Peaks. If you would like to see the rhododendron trees in their full glory, it is a better idea to come here in early spring.
Altitude: 12073ft
Duration: 4 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Season: February to November
• Har Ki Dun Trek: The trek which is perched at an elevation of 3566mts is especially renowned for its gleaming peaks and unsurpassed beauty. Since the valley is also teeming with rich flora and fauna, you will find naturalists and tourists tricking in to do research and study their findings. Then you would also find others clicking away at sceneries, plants or whatever catches their fancy. Har Ki Dun is also held in high esteem by the Hindus because according to legends it was the region through which the Pandavas went to heaven.
Altitude: 3566 mts/11697 ft
Duration: 8Days
Difficulty Level: Easy- Moderate
Best Season: March – June & September – Mid November
• The Valley of Flowers Trek: Known for its stunning meadows of endemic alpine flowers which dot the landscape, the Valley of Flowers trek presents the trekker some amazing views of the rolling mountains. The trekker would also get acquainted with the rich flora and flora of the region, with endangered animals like the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, musk deer, brown bear, and red fox being some of the major attractions. This trek is just tailor-made for beginners.
Altitude: 12,000ft
Duration: 6 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Season: July, August and September
• Nag Tibba Trek: Perched at an elevation of 9998 ft above sea level, this trek is located in the lesser Himalayan region and is also known as the ‘Mountain of the Serpent.’ It derives its name from Nag Devta, a deity who is believed to reside here; in fact the deity is worshipped by the local people. If you like sighting sunsets and sunrise, then this trek would give you some memorable to carry back with you. In addition, you will get great panoramic views of nearby peaks like Bandarpoonch peak, Gangotri group of peaks, Kedarnath peaks and peaks of Changbang which will make your day.
Altitude: 3048 m/9998 ft
Duration: 6 Days
Difficulty level: Easy
Best Season: Round the year except July & August
• Sar Pass Trek: This trek starts from Kasol and takes the trekker through amazing trails including the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges. The scenic beauty along the entire stretch is simply mind blowing and the trekker gets the opportunity to make his way through evergreen forests, snow-covered mountains and zigzag pathways.
Altitude: 13,780ft
Duration: 5 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: May to June, September to November
• Kedar Kantha Trek: Tailor made for first timers, this trek alternates between moderate ascends and descends and doesn’t put the trekker through any stiff test. It meanders through the scenic valley of the Tons River and the Govind National Park. The trekker will simply be awestruck by the beauty that covers the entire stretch; especially during winters when the valley is blanketed in snow, the view is just majestic.
Altitude: 12,500ft
Duration: 7 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Season: Round the Year
• Kuari Pass Trek: Situated in the Garhwal region of northern India and towards the south of the Indo-Tibet border, Kuari is a high mountain pass which was discovered by Lord Curzon. Kuari in the local language means “doorway” and you will in fact how true it is when you come here and find that you have found your doorway to paradise. Trekking along the pass you will get to view stunning views of nearby peaks like Kamet, Trishul, Chaukhaba and the Nanda Devi.
Altitude: 12,763ft
Duration: 6 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Season: December to March
