Embracing The Outdoors: Top 7 Beginner-Friendly Nature Treks In India
In this article, we'll look at seven beginner-friendly nature treks across the country, along with lodging options, travel logistics, and directions to these breathtaking locations.
India, with its diverse landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty, offers a plethora of trekking opportunities for both beginners and seasoned adventurers. If you're new to trekking and eager to embrace the great outdoors, you're in for a treat. In this article, we'll explore seven beginner-friendly nature treks across the country, complete with accommodation options, travel logistics, and how to reach these stunning destinations.
Triund Trek, Himachal Pradesh
Triund trek, conveniently accessible from Delhi and Chandigarh for a weekend getaway, offers a relatively easy beginner Himalayan trekking experience. It boasts stunning vistas of the Kangra Valley and the snow-clad Dhauladhar ranges, making it a visually captivating destination. Ideal for those seeking a hassle-free taste of the Himalayan trekking experience, Triund can be comfortably completed over a weekend. While the trail is short, it's marked by a steep ascent, but this challenge is balanced by refreshing strolls amidst rhododendrons and oak forests. Moreover, the area is a haven for birdwatchers, with various songbirds gracing the trail.
Location: Near McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 2 days
Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to November
Accommodation Options:
Triund Camps: Basic campsites with stunning mountain views.
From budget-friendly hostels and cosy guest houses for backpackers, to boutique hotels and luxury resorts for those seeking a touch of opulence, Mcleodganj ensures a comfortable stay amidst its breathtaking natural beauty.
To find the perfect accommodation in Mcleodganj, check out the best hotels in MakeMyTrip compare prices, and read reviews to make an informed choice.
How to Reach: Fly to Kangra Airport (Gaggal), then take a taxi or book a bus to
Valley of Flowers Trek, Uttarakhand
The Valley of Flowers trek is a Himalayan gem, celebrated as one of India's most beloved treks. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002, this monsoon-season wonder, nestled at an elevation of 3600m in Uttarakhand's West Himalayas, offers a chance to witness the elusive blue Primula and an array of vibrant wildflowers. As you step into this paradise, the intoxicating blend of floral fragrances envelops you, while a hidden lake at 14,400 ft shelters a profusion of wildflower species, creating a natural masterpiece of saxifrages, sedums, lilies, poppies, calendulas, daisies, geraniums, zinnias, and petunias. After this enchanting journey, find solace at Hemkund Sahib, a Sikh Gurudwara nestled beside a high-altitude dazzling lake, aptly named Hemkund or "Lake of Snow," offering spiritual tranquillity amidst stunning natural beauty.
Location: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand
Duration: 6-7 days
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Accommodation Options:
In Ghangaria, basic guesthouses and campsites provide an authentic mountain experience amidst nature's beauty. If you prefer a more comfortable stay, Joshimath offers a range of hotels and lodges, ensuring a cosy retreat after your adventures. And for those seeking spiritual solace in the heart of Rishikesh, there are numerous hotels, hostels and resorts that you can check out on TripAdvisor.
How to Reach: To begin your journey to the Valley of Flowers trek, you can fly into Dehradun from major cities in India. You can travel from Dehradun to Rishikesh by road, which takes approximately 45 kilometres and can be covered in about 1.5 to 2 hours by taxi or bus, then hire a taxi to Govindghat. The trek starts from Govindghat.
Book your flights to Dehradun now on Goibibo Flights and start your journey into the heart of the Himalayas.
Chopta Chandrashila Trek, Uttarakhand
Chopta Trek, a haven of lush green meadows surrounded by majestic pine and oak trees, is a trekkers' and campers' paradise. It's incredibly budget-friendly, offering an experience worth far more than the cost. The journey begins in Haridwar, or your preferred starting point, leading you to Sari, the base camp. From Sari, the trek unfolds with a visit to the captivating Deoria Tal Lake, often called "two worlds in one place" for its Himalayan reflections. The path then winds to Tungnath via Chopta, a land steeped in myth and legend. Tungnath, one of Lord Shiva's "maths' ' where his body parts are said to have fallen, is a spiritual highlight. The adventure culminates at Chandrashila Peak, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trisul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch, and Chaukhamba.
Location: Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand
Duration: 4 days
Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to November
Accommodation Options:
In Chopta, you'll find guesthouses and campsites, while Ukhimath offers hotels and lodges for your accommodation needs. Book your hotel in Ukhimath with Goibibo for a hassle-free and comfortable Himalayan adventure!
How to Reach: You can catch flights to either Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) or Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport (DED), both well-connected to major cities in India. From there, reach Rishikesh by train or road, where your adventure truly begins. Once in Rishikesh, hire a taxi for the approximately 6-7 hour scenic journey to Chopta. This picturesque drive of around 190 kilometres will transport you to the base of your trekking expedition.
For flights to Dehradun, visit Skyscanner to find the best deals and flight options.
Kheerganga Trek, Himachal Pradesh
Location: Parvati Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 2-3 days
Best Time to Visit: May to June, September to November
Accommodation Options: For those seeking a rugged mountain experience, Kheerganga offers basic guesthouses and campsites nestled in nature's embrace. On the other hand, in the vibrant towns of Kasol and Manikaran, a diverse range of hotels and hostels cater to various budgets and preferences.
To secure your ideal stay in Kasol, visit TripAdvisor and explore the diverse range of options.
How to Reach: Fly to Bhuntar Airport (Kullu) and then take a taxi or bus to Kasol. The trek starts from Barshaini, which is a short drive from Kasol.
Brahmatal Trek, Uttarakhand
Nestled in the pristine Himalayas, the Brahmatal trek is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by trekkers worldwide. Dedicated to Lord Brahma, this trek offers a captivating landscape blanketed in snow. Along the trail, you'll traverse centuries-old Oak and Rhododendron forests and stroll through picturesque meadows alongside the Brahmatal Ridge, offering glimpses reminiscent of the Roopkund Trek. On a clear day, the distant Garhwal Mountains provide a breathtaking view that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your heart.
Location: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand
Duration: 6-7 days
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Accommodation Options:
In Lohajung, you'll find basic guesthouses and campsites, while Kathgodam offers hotels and lodges.
How to Reach: Reach Kathgodam by train, then take a taxi to Lohajung, the starting point of the trek. Jolly Grant Airport, situated 222 kilometres away, is the nearest airport to Chamoli.
Visit Cleartrip, a trusted platform that provides a comprehensive list of available flights, making your trip planning seamless and convenient.
Hampta Pass Trek, Himachal Pradesh
In the lap of the Himalayas, the Hampta Pass is a trekker's paradise and a gateway to stunning landscapes and high-altitude adventures. This enchanting pass is located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, offering a thrilling journey through lush green valleys, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks. The Hampta Pass trek is renowned for its diverse terrain, allowing trekkers to experience the changing landscapes, from the green Kullu Valley to the barren, surreal landscapes of Lahaul and Spiti Valley.
Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 4-5 days
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Accommodation Options:
You can find a variety of campsites along these treks, each offering a distinct experience. In Manali, you can choose from cosy guesthouses, comfortable hotels, charming resorts, and even budget-friendly hostels, all available in a variety of options on MakeMyTrip.
How to Reach: Reach Manali by road or take a bus from Delhi. The trek begins from Jobra, which is a short drive from Manali.
Sandakphu Trek, West Bengal
The Sandakphu trek, perched at 11,930 ft, is a trekker's paradise known for its panoramic views of Mount Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. This route traces the famed Singalila Ridge, forming the Sikkim-Nepal border and passing through charming settlements. Inside the Singalila National Park, a biodiversity hotspot, lucky trekkers may spot the elusive Red Panda. The trek also unveils the stunning "Sleeping Buddha" formation, sculpted by the world's tallest mountains, and during spring, the forest blossoms with Rhododendrons and Magnolias, a true Himalayan gem.
Location: Darjeeling District, West Bengal
Duration: 6-7 days
Best Time to Visit: October to November, March to April
Accommodation Options:
Trekking huts and guesthouses are available along the trekking route, providing essential shelter for trekkers. In Darjeeling and Manebhanjan, you can choose from a range of
hotels from TripAdvisor, offering comfortable stays in these picturesque towns.
How to Reach: You can take a flight directly to Bagdogra Airport (IXB), which is the nearest airport to the region. From Bagdogra, you can arrange for transportation to Manebhanjan, the starting point of the trek. Alternatively, you can book your flight tickets at the best deal to Kolkata (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport - CCU) and then take a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From NJP, you can proceed to Manebhanjan by road.
India's diverse terrain offers an array of trekking experiences for beginners. Whether you prefer the lush green landscapes of Himachal Pradesh or the snow-covered trails of Uttarakhand, there's a trek for everyone. Prioritise safety, pack appropriately and consider hiring local guides when needed to make your trekking adventure memorable. So, lace up your hiking boots and embrace the outdoors – India is waiting to be explored!
(Disclaimer: This is a partnered article. The information is provided to you on an "as-is" basis, without any warranty. Although all efforts are made, however, there is no guarantee to the accuracy of the information. ABP Network Private Limited (‘ABP’) and/or ABP Live make no representations or warranties as to the truthfulness, fairness, completeness, or accuracy of the information. Readers are advised visit to the website of the relevant advertiser to verify the pricing of the goods or services before any purchase.)
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