Often referred to as the “Land of the Gods”, the Indian state of Uttarakhand is located just west of Nepal and is the geographical center of the greater Himalayas. Hindus have long made pilgrimages to the source of the Ganges, which begins in the Himalayas, the upper Gangotri Glacier. Nanda Devi’s home (7,816 m / 25,643 ft) is the second-highest peak in India as well as another 7000 m + peak host Uttarakhand is a great destination for trekkers.
Known as Garhwal Himalayas, it is divided into West Garhwal Division and East Kumaon Division. Daily flights can be taken from Delhi to Dehradun, but it is still a few days’ journeys through the rugged mountains. Rishikesh, a small town on the banks of the Ganges and at the foot of the Himalayas, can be a great resting place for those on their way to the mountains. The best trekking season is from April to early June and then again between October and November. Check out some of the best treks in the region here.
1. Chopta Chandrashila Trek
Chandrashila Trek with Chopta is one of the most beautiful and challenging treks for everyone. travelers can tread in Uttarakhand. Soaring up at 13000 feet, adorned with mists, coniferous, and snow, this is one heck of a trek you must take. The Chopta, situated on the Gopeshwar-Ukhimath road, is nestled at an altitude of 2900mts above from the sea level. Rich in flora and fauna, this enchanting way covers a whole illustration of the magnificent panoramas.
The chandrashila trek can be done all through the year except the months of December and January when the Garhwal Himalayas are covered with heavy snow. The summit of Chandrashila, a rock face above the Tungnath temple, offers a beautiful and nice sight of Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Trishul and Chaukhamba peaks. The hike is short but the Tungnath, the highest temple in the Himalayas.
2. Dodital Darwa Pass Trek
Dodital is a good place located in 3024 m north of Uttarkashi. The lake is surrounded by the dense oak woods, deodar, pine, and rhododendrons. The forest surrounding the lake is also full of flora and fauna.The Dodital Lake is a beautiful covered and surrounded by pine and oak trees. Soak in the beauty of the region and keep staring for long at the lake. You can also enjoy some birding.
There also come across a variety of birds like Brown Fronted Woodpecker, Grey Tit, Himalayan Babbler, Red-Billed Blue Magpie, Grey Shrike, Bush Robin, Pink Finch, Munia, Common Chiffchaff, Himalayan Whistling Thrush, Himalayan Tree Pie, Tailor Bird, and Himalayan Monal.When the travelers or tourists will go out from this trip definitely you will experience a lot of fun good memories.
They also have a memory of this trip which you can never erase. It gives an idyllic set up for rest and recreation activities like angling, boating and bird watching. It takes two days to trek from Dodital to Hanuma Chatti via Darwa Top. The serene surroundings, splashing streams, dense alpine forests, and crystal-clear water make for a perfect retreat. The lake is also a home of Himalayan golden trout. The panorama of this trek is beyond your expectations. This is one of the famous Treks in Uttarakhand.
3. Dodital Bamsaru Khal Pass Trek
Bamsaru-Khal defines one of the routes from Gangotri to Yamunotri, along with a traverse up the Hanuman Ganga River, over across to Bamsaru khal. Bamsaru-Khal is a less founded valley in the Garhwal Himalayas, which is adjacent to the Ganga Valley and is known for its virgin Bugyals and beautiful peaks along a beautiful trek.
The Bamsaru Khal trek provides an opportunity to know about the Ganga valley, and the upper reaches of river Hanuman Ganga all the way to Gidara valley. This route is considered as the old traditional conjunction between Yamunotri and Gangotri. Bamsaru Khal is known for its lush meadows and wildflowers, offering splendid views of the Bugyals and the peaks that stand as guards along this wonderful trek. It is one of the least explored valleys in the Garhwal Himalayas.
The valley is well-known Ganga valley. The Dodital Bamsaru Khal Pass Trek provides a chance to see the Asi Ganga Valley and Chayya Gidara Valley. The trail passes through the picturesque places like Bhebra and Sangam Chatti. The route is considered as the old conventional joint between Gangotri and Yamunotri.
4. Gomukh Tapovan Trek
Gangotri-Gaumukh Tapovan trek is a popular trek of Uttarakhand. It is Located at the base of the Gangotri glacier, Gaumukh also known as Cow’s mouth is a source of holy river Ganga. On the other hand, Tapovan is located above the Gangotri glacier. This trek will pass traveler through glaciers.
Therefore, it is certainly one of the great treks best meant for adventure from across the globe. This trail is rated as moderate and therefore can be undertaken by mountaineers and non-mountaineers with good state-of-health. The Gomukh Tapovan Trek is one of the most exciting and moderate treks in Uttarakhand. Tourists will pass through an orchard of coniferous pine trees at Chirbasa and birch at Bhojwassa. The trek takes you to the Lanka and Gomukh from Bhojwassa.
The herds of Blue mountain goats known as Bharal are a common here on the mountain ridges. You will explore the Gomukh Glacier, just 4 kilometers ahead from Bhojwassa. From Gomukh to Tapovan the climb is sheer, and as you climb, the sight of the adjoining peaks becomes clear.
5. Har Ki Dun Trek
Har Ki Dun is one of the most beautiful valleys in the Western Himalayas. It is nestled in the middle of a cradle-shaped vale below the Har Ki Dun peak. A delight for trekkers, both in summer and winter, this valley is accessible through Govind National Park – known for its rich variety of flora and fauna.
The trail through alpine meadows, moraine ridges, glacier basins, pine forests, and ancient villages, gives you spectacular valley views and a chance to experience the wonderful slow-paced local lifestyle. Situated at a height of 3566mts, Har-Ki-Dun is enclosed with gleaming peaks and lush-green forest. The valley is rich with flora and fauna and is a veritable paradise for the nature lovers and photographers.
During the trek, tourists can spend time identifying the herbs and shrubs. Har-Ki-Dun is a sacred place and it is believed that the Pandavas went to heaven through this mountain. You can find the trees of rare Bramhakamal and Bhojpatra in the trek. Jaundar and Swargarohini glaciers are located in the southeast and the Bandar Punch mountain is perched in the west of Har-Ki-Dun region.
Suggested Read: 20 Best Camping Places in Uttarakhand
6. Kalindikhal Trek
A challenging Kalindi Khal trek nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, feel a rush of adrenaline in tourists blood as tourists scale right up to a Himalayan pass 6000m high. Not just that, this mesmeric place is a spiritual haven decorated by gorgeous mountains of nature. Kalindikhal trekking experience starts from Gangotri banked beside the Ganga waters.
After seeking the Gangotri goddess’s blessing start off on your journey to Gaumukh, the birth point of the holy Ganges River. Get enchanted by the grasslands at Tapovan and mesmerized by several rivulets and peaks of Shivling, Bhagirathi and Meru. The Kalidikhal trek is regarded as the ‘big daddy’ of all the treks in Garhwal Himalaya. This high altitude expedition commences from Gangotri, and its endpoint is Badrinath, which is reached via Kalindikhal.
7. Kedartal Trek
Kedartal also was known as ‘Shiva’s Lake’ is one of the highest lakes in Uttarakhand. This immaculate glacial lake is seated at an elevation of 4,912 meters above sea level in the Uttarkashi district. This emerald lake is formed by the melting of Kedar glacier, thereby giving birth to Kedar Ganga River which is an important tributary of Bhagirathi River.
Located in the Gangotri region of the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedartal Tal Trek is perfect for the mountain lovers. Amidst the snow-covered peaks and terrain, the trekkers can also get the glimpse of various mountain fauna species like the Blue Sheep, Himalayan Black Bear, and Goral. However, in order to enjoy the sight of all these natural splendors, travelers will have to accept all the challenges of the expedition.
8. Nanda Devi Sanctuary Trek
Nanda Devi Sanctuary Trek is one of the Best treks in Uttarakhand. In the year 1934, a British team with 6 shepherds, was the first group to explore the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. The Nanda Devi Sanctuary in the Garhwal Himalayas of India is a unique geographical feature. A ring of peaks connected by massive rock walls which dip no lower than 17,000ft/ 5200 meters forming an impenetrable sanctuary.
the inevitable damage caused by expeditions and shepherds who were also finding their way in. Thereafter, many travelers made their way to the sanctuary, which eventually led to environmental issues and the sanctuary was closed in 1983 by the Government of India. However, now the scenario has changed and the place welcomes the tourists wholeheartedly. Trekking towards this high altitude sanctuary is an uphill battle, but once reached, the vista you observe is simply worth the entire struggle.
Various beautiful and enticing mountain species like Bharal, Himalayan Thar, Serow, Brown Bear and so on can be seen frisking in the sanctuary. Another fascinating fact about this trek is that treats the eyes with the sight of twelve peaks, a few to name are Changabang, Dunagiri, Trishuli and Nanda Kot
9. Nagtibba Trek
Located in the Lesser Himalayan region, Nagtibba or more popular as the ‘Mountain of the Serpent’ is a paradise for the adventurists. This range is named as Nagtibba as it is regarded as an abode of the Nag Devta, and local people of the region worship the respective deity. In addition to spiritual value, the trek is famous for providing the perfect sights during the sunrise and sunset. Nag Tibba is a trekkers’ delight. Though it is a relatively unknown trail near Mussoorie it can easily be considered one of the best weekend treks for someone around Delhi.
It is the highest peak (9,915 ft) in the Nag Tibba range of the Garhwal Himalayas. The trek takes you through dense forests rich in flora and fauna and presents stunning views of Bandarpoonch peak, the Gangotri group of peaks, Kedarnath peak in the north, Doon valley and the snow peaks of Changabang. The trekkers are also greeted by the vistas of the Bandarpoonch peak, Gangotri group of peaks, Kedarnath peaks, and peaks of Changbang. Thus, owing to the exquisiteness of this trek, trekking in Uttarakhand becomes worthwhile.
10. Roopkund Trek
Roopkund Lake or better known as the Skeleton Lake is one such rare place that is popular not for its magnificence, but for the mystery of the dead. There are thousands of corpses resting in and around the lake, and as per the folklore, it is said that a group of travelers was caught in a hailstorm. A furious hailstorm was caused because the local deity got enraged by the visitors.
One more fact that lures the adventure lovers towards this trek that its challenging terrain complements with the picturesque snow-dressed peaks and Bedni Bugyal grasslands. Furthermore, the lake is also famous for various religious reasons, and one of them is the ‘Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra’. This is one of the famous treks in Uttarakhand.
It is a fact that takes place open once every twelve years. The Roopkund trek is an experience from the high altitude region of Loharjung, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at 3200m, to the ‘Skeletal Lake’ of Roopkund shadowed by the mighty peak of Trishul standing tall at 5000m. The trial for the trek that leads to the frozen Roopkund Lake also overlaps with the religious pilgrimage of Nanda Devi thus making this experience of trekking in Uttarakhand, an overall mix of culture and adventure.
11. Valley of Flowers Trek
The Valley of Flowers “Fulon Ki Ghati” is one of those beautiful trekking adventures that can be enjoyed during the rainy season. The Valley of Flowers is also believed to be the place from where Hanuman brought magical herbs to revive Lakshmana in the Hindu epic Ramayana. The intoxicating blend of fragrance emanating from the flowers gives you a heavenly feeling as you set foot in the valley. The lake, hidden at an altitude of 14,400 feet, forms a hidden cage for wildflowers of numerous species such as Saxifrage, Sedam, Lily, Poppy, Calendulas, Daisy, Geranium, Xenia, and Petunia.
Also Read: Top 27 Places to Visit in Uttarakhand
12. Kedarkantha Trek, Uttarakhand
Kedarkantha one of the best trekking destinations in Uttarakhand is such a popular winter trek that it would be appropriate to entitle it as the queen of winter treks. The ‘easy tolerance’ path has gone through the dense pine forest of Govinda National Park. Views from above are worth climbing to an altitude of 12,500 feet. The Kedarkantha trek will give you an impeccable view of the cosmic sky, meadows, snowy paths, enchanting villages, fragrant pine forests, sky-scraping peaks, calm rivers, and the whispers of some mythological stories.
Kedarkantha is a beautifully cherished trek that gives photographers a perfect opportunity to capture snow falling from a pine tree that looks like magic dust. The ‘I rule the world’ pose at the top of the Kedarkantha Summit will create a great profile picture and with stunning scenes in the background, it will make your friends jealous too.
Experience beautiful campsites where each site is unique in its way and does not match the beauty of any other travel site Get a chance to camp around the frozen Juda Ka Lake where Lord Shiva once had a place to meditate. Experience walking in the middle of the night, showing the way by lighting a head torch and watching the sunrise from the top of the hill before reaching the summit.
13. Chandrashila Trek
A visit to the holy Tugnath temple, famous for being the tallest Shiva temple in the world, offers you a convenient point of the trek . The trek takes you through Rishikesh, Sari, and Chopta, and the path is surrounded by lively patches of pine, oak, and rhododendron. Here’s when you can indulge in bird-watching activities and lakeside picnics. Don’t miss the sight, golden-breasted eagles that have a mesmerizing view from the summit.
Starting from Haridwar, the journey will take you through the famous Har Ki Pauri, Chopta, and Saree and numerous small villages as you ascend to the top. On your way, see the beauty of Kedar, Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Bandarpanch, and Deoria Tal Lake. While trekking, you can also meditate at the famous Tugnath Temple. The full distance of about 10 kilometers, will be covered in 4 days. An experienced guide will be with you throughout the trek. You can enjoy beautiful views of the peaks from your location in high-quality alpine tents or guesthouses.
14. Kuari Pass Trek
Kuari Pass which points to the entrance is one of the best trekking destinations in Uttarakhand. It is also known as the Curzon Trail because it was discovered by Lord Curzon in 1905. Beautiful view of the eastern slopes of the royal Garhwal Himalayas, Nilkanta, Mana, Elephant Ghori Mountains, Bartholdi, Trishul, Dronagiri, and Debit. The peaks can be felt on the Quarry Pass trek. The trek features dense fir, oak, and rhododendron forests that offer a panoramic view. Rare and preserved plants and animals are found on this trail. The trek passes through major rivers like Mandakini, Kaliganga and Dhauli Ganga.
15. Pangarchulla Trek, Uttarakhand
Arranging the Lord Curzon Circuit – Garwal is one of the most popular trails in the Himalayas, the Pangarchulla Peak Trek. The peak is usually covered with snow and rugged hilly terrain. Snowfall is an influential feature of your winter adventure at Pangarchulla Peak. Surrounded by lush green, dense jungle, and pristine snow-covered landscapes around the road. Through this trek, a close-up look of the Garhwal region can be discovered with sunlight at its peak.
Travelers choose to go on this trek to see the amazing sights of Nanda Devi, Mana, Elephant, Lampak, Dronagiri. Trek through steep hills at 15,069 feet and make your way to breathtaking peaks. Witness the Nanda Devi Sanctuary which is a treat for your eyes – a landscape that changes with each ascent and descent. Enjoy the spectacular peaks of Mount Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Donagiri, Kedarnath, Nilkant, Hati-Parbat, Ghori Parbat, and many more. Get a chance to come across some of the royal scenery in the dense woods of forests, valleys, and green hills.
16. Brahmatal Trek, Uttarakhand
It is beautifully located in the Himalayas and covered with snow blankets. The trail lets you see centuries-old forests of oak and rhododendrons. Walking on the grasslands along the Brahmatal Ridge, you will see many sites of the Roopkund trek. On a clear day, a look at the Garhwal Mountains in the distance will melt your heart completely.
One of the winter treks, 2 Glacier Lakes at an altitude of only 3180 meters, where the entire trail is covered in snow during the winter months. See glimpses of the great Himalayan mountains. Mount Trishul is closely assigned with the view of Nanda Ghunti at every step of the Brahmatal trek . The trail peeks from Brahmatal Ridge to Skeleton Lake, Roopkund. Meditating on Brahmatal Lake in a small town in Lohajang, Lord Brahma got ready to learn more about history.
Also Read: National Parks in Uttarakhand
17. Rupin Pass Trek, Uttarakhand
The pass is located at an altitude of 15,250 feet in the surreal Himalayan mountains of Himachal Pradesh. The trek is surrounded by small villages from Dehradun in Uttarakhand to Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, which gives a reason to explore the beauty of its local culture. You will be greeted with stunning views such as cascades, green ice meadows, incredible things to cross snow bridges, snow-kissed hills, enchanting villages, big rivers, hanging villages, scary forests, hundreds of waterfalls, and a delightful crossing. Overall, the Rupin Pass Trek is completely experiential.
Faced with hundreds of waterfalls cascading down from the high mountains, it may seem like it is floating from the sky. Experience the beauty of the unique location of Jhaka village located on the border of the hill, it seems to be hanging through a hill. The main part of the Rupin Pass trek is that it connects two beautiful states, starting from Dhaula in Uttarakhand and ending at Sangla in Himachal Pradesh.
18. Dayara Bugyal Trek
Of all the treks in Uttarakhand, Dayara Bugyal is considered to be the most breathtaking trek. The trek takes us to a highland grassland in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand which stands at an altitude of 10,000-12,500 feet. This green expanse of grassland serves as an excellent destination for winter skiing and covers an area of 28 sq km. This breathtaking location is located in the middle of high snow-capped mountains.
On this memorable Himalayan Dayara Bugyal trekking tour in Uttarakhand, India, take a look at Lake Bernala Tal spread across the green alpine prairie – the reflections of which make the peaks look even more beautiful. The trek starts from the small village of Barolo on the Haridwar-Gangotri road, 32 km from Uttarkashi.
Barolo can be settled in any of the rest-houses or GMVN houses that overlook the stunning valley on one side and the snow-capped mountains on the other. The path to the Dayara Bugial Trek goes through gorgeous oak forests, clear ponds, and vast meadows while overlooking the valleys and high hills overlooking huts, sheep grazing. The current flows across the pasture and wildflowers also bloom around the stream.
19. Panchachuli Base Camp Trek
Hidden in the snow-capped mountains, the Panchchuli base camp trek originates in the Darma Valley of Pithoragarh District, between the borders of Nepal and Tibet. Adorned with the glory of nature, the path to the Panchchuli Glacier in the lap of the Kumaon Himalayas is adorned with breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped mountains, spring water, alpine meadows, and a variety of flora and fauna.
Located in the eastern Kumaon Himalayas, the trekking route forms a reservoir between the Gori Ganga and the Darma Valley. The entire trek to the glacier is a walk along the Dhauliganga river. Here is a 9-day Panchchuli base camp trekking package that starts after you reach the woodshed and the first point of stay in Dharchula. The scenic ways to reach Dharchula beyond the cities of Bhimtal, Almora, and Dhaulchina will be amazing and you will come across various small villages and canyons.
From Daharchula, your next destination will be Dar to Earthing. The path will take you along the small tribal settlements of Tawaghat and New Soba. After reaching Dar, take a 3-4 hour walk along your entire path along a narrow cliff to the right of the Dhauli Ganga River to reach the Rating Campsite. Then comes the easy way to Nagling through the hanging bridge across the river.
Conclusion
As the source of the river Bhagirathi, Gaumukh is considered to be the real source of the river Ganga. A trek of 18 km from Gangotri takes you to Gaumukhe, a surreal and peaceful area that offers panoramic views of the Bhagirathi peaks. Tapoban is situated 4300 meters outside Gaumukh and consists of magnificent grasslands at the foot of Shivling mountain. The Gaumukh Tapoban trekking trail is usually mild but dangerously steep in place.
When you reach Tapoban, you will see a beautiful view of the beautiful snow-covered peaks covered in sunlight. Another attraction of this trekking trail is the Akash Ganga, the actual river Ganga which according to popular belief flows from the entanglement of Lord Shiva by bathing Shiva linga. The beauty and serenity around Tapoban will captivate, relax and soothe your mind.