Introduction:
Are you ready for a thrilling trip through the beautiful Himalayas? As a beginner, going on a journey in the Himalayas can be both exciting and scary. But don’t worry, because I have made a list of the easy and Best 20 Himalayan treks for beginners in India. So that your trek will be fun and memorable. I will talk about these beautiful treks, each of which has its own views and activities, in this article. In this article, I will tell you about some of the easiest and most amazing Himalayan treks that are great for first-timers. These walks let you connect with nature, learn about different cultures, and push yourself in a safe and fun way.
I have spent a lot of time in the mountains of India looking for the Top Himalayan treks for beginners. I have put together a list of amazing trips. These are not regular treks; they are the best way to see the natural beauty of Uttarakhand and the easiest mountain treks for beginners in India. Those people who have never done them before. Join us as I check out these easy treks for beginners in India. Each one offers an amazing experience of nature’s beauty. If you’re new to trekking and want to find the best treks for beginners in India, Uttarakhand is the place to go.
Beginner’s Guide and Tips to Safe Himalayan Trekking
Even if you haven’t been on local trails before, these treks are great for people who are new to hiking. Preparing for Safe Himalayan Trekking:
- Fitness Training: Train for at least a month to get in shape.
- Year-Round Trekking: Himalayan hikes are accessible year-round.
- Diverse Scenery: Varied landscapes on each trek.
- Snow in Winter: Expect snow from December to April.
- Start Slow: Pace yourself, especially at high altitudes.
- Proper Gear: Invest in quality gear, including warm clothing.
- Stay Hydrated: Prevent altitude sickness with regular hydration.
- Altitude Sickness: Recognize symptoms and descend if needed.
- Weather Preparedness: Pack rain gear and warm clothing.
- Guidance: Consider a local guide or group for support.
Additional Tips:
- Leave No Trace: Preserve the environment.
- Acclimatization Days: Use rest days wisely.
- Basic First Aid: Carry and know how to use a first-aid kit.
- Permits and Regulations: Check and follow local rules.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep a list for emergencies.
- Enjoy the Journey: Savor the natural beauty along the way.
These tips should help people who have never been hiking before have a safe and fun time in the Himalayas.
20 Best Himalayan Treks For Beginners in India
1) Dayara Bugyal Trek:
- Duration: 6 days
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate | Level 1
- Highest Altitude: 11,939 ft
- Best time: All year, except monsoon
- Child-friendly: For children from 8 years onwards
- Location: Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand
Dayara Bugyal is a fantastic choice for beginners in India. It rewards your efforts with breathtaking scenery throughout the year. From lush spring forests to vibrant meadows in summer and autumn’s golden hues, this trek never disappoints. Dayara Bugyal is one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners in India. It is also a great place for first-time climbers. Spring brings heaps of leaves in the forests, summer makes the fields green. Autumn gives them a golden hue and winter turns them into a white wonderland. At a height of more than 10,000 feet, it gives a close-up view of the Greater Himalayas, including the beautiful peaks of Bandarpoonch and Srikanth. This trek is known for its beautiful mountain flowers, oak, rhododendron, and rhododendron woods, as well as its many types of birds. This is a great option for people new to Uttarakhand.
2) Deoriatal-Chandrashila Trek:
- Duration: 6 days
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate | Level 2
- Highest Altitude: 12,083 ft
- Best time: All year, except monsoon
- Child-friendly: For children from 10 years onwards
- Location: Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
From the start, Deoriatal-Chandrashila gives you rich adventures. You can get to Deoriatal Lake in a few hours. From there, you can see beautiful views of Chaukhamba and the other mountains. At the end of the journey, at the top of Chandrashila, you can see in every direction. Deoriatal Chandrashila is one of the easiest and best Himalayan treks in India for people who are just starting out.
One of the best parts of this trip is that you can see some of the highest peaks in the Indian Himalayas from the top of Chandrashila. The springtime trail, adorned with oak and rhododendron forests, is a dreamlike experience. The trek is renowned for its incredible vistas, with Mt. Nanda Devi, Mt. Chaukhamba, and other majestic peaks gracing the skyline. Trekkers love climbing to the top of Chandrashila, making it a must-see for beginners who want to have a unique mountain trek experience.
3) Kuari Pass Trek:
- Duration: 6 days
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate | Level 3
- Highest Altitude: 12,598 ft
- Best time: All year, except monsoon
- Child-friendly: For children from 10 years onwards
- Location: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand
Kuari Pass provides close-up views of Mt. Nanda Devi and Mt. Dronagiri, along with captivating oak forests and Gorson Bugyal’s meadows. The trek is great for beginners because it has so many things to see and do.
4) Brahmatal Trek:
- Duration: 6 days
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate | Level 2
- Highest Altitude: 12,250 ft
- Best time: All year, except monsoon
- Child-friendly: For children from 10 years onwards
- Location: Lohajung-Wan Rd, Mundoli, Uttarakhand
In the winter, Brahmatal is a secret gem with frozen lakes, snow-covered woods, and beautiful views of Mt. Trishul and Mt. It has beautiful azalea woods in the spring, making it a great choice any time of year. Among the best Himalayan treks for beginners in India, Brahmatal stands out for its unparalleled mountain vistas. The trek offers breathtaking views of Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti from various vantage points. These spectacular peaks are showcased by Jhandi Top, while Mt. Neelkanth and Mt. Hathi Ghoda may be seen from Brahmatal Top. Brahmatal is a hiking paradise for people looking for easy hill hikes. Which is sure to be a memorable experience thanks to its beautiful woods, two quiet lakes, and breathtaking fields.
5) Kedarkantha Trek:
- Duration: 6 days
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate | Level 2
- Highest Altitude: 12,500 ft
- Best time: All year, except monsoon
- Child-friendly: For children from 8 years onwards
- Location: Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand
Kedarkantha is a well-known trek, often crowded in winter. But it really shines at other times of the year when it is beautifully alone. This trek starts in Kotgaon and takes you through beautiful forests, camping areas, and up to a satisfying peak. In Uttarakhand, Govind Pashu Vihar National Park has a 6-day trip to Kedarkantha, which is different from the well-known Kedarnath Temple. It is notable as being among the Top Himalayan treks in India for beginners. The best part? The extremely rewarding summit ascent. Trekkers will be rewarded with stunning Himalayan views for their difficult ascent. While varied trees add to the trek’s charm, clearings along the route offer lovely rest stops. If you wish to have a fantastic mountain hiking experience. Try Kedarkantha then, you must.
6) Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek:
- Duration: 6 days
- Difficulty: Moderate | Level 2
- Highest Altitude: 12,550 ft
- Best time: All year, except monsoon
- Child-friendly: For children from 10 years onwards
- Location: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand
Ali Bedni Bugyal gives you a taste of what it’s like to go on an adventure while also giving you the beauty of untouched woods and fields. Seeing Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti in the background of a sunrise or sunset will be a memorable experience. Ali Bedni Bugyal is one of the Top Himalayan treks for beginners in India. It has great views of the mountains. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience because Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti rise up in front of you and make a beautiful background for the green fields. In the spring, you can see beautiful mountain views, and in the summer, the area is full of fresh green plants. Those who want an easy hill trek should definitely go there.
7) Phulara Ridge Trek:
- Duration: 6 days
- Difficulty: Moderate | Level 3
- Highest Altitude: 12,345 ft
- Best time: Summer, Autumn
- Location: Garhwal region of Uttarakhand
Even though Phulara Ridge isn’t a usual place for beginners to start, it makes you love the mountains very much. It’s a good choice because you can trek along ridges, camp in pretty places, and get to other hiking trails. One of India’s best Himalayan treks for beginners, Ali Bedni Bugyal offers unrivaled mountain views. With Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti soaring right in front of you, it’s a spectacle to behold. In the summer, thick grass grows in the fields, but the best mountain views are in the spring. It is breathtaking to see the change from dense forests to Ali Bugyal’s wide beauty. The Chaukhamba Range can be seen from Bedni Bugyal, which is another great thing about this trek. This trek is a must for those who want to see the untouched Himalayas. Which makes it a top choice for mountain treks for beginners.
8) Valley of Flowers Trek:
- Duration: 6 days
- Difficulty: Moderate | Level 2
- Highest Altitude: 14,107 ft
- Best time: Monsoon
- Location: GovindGhat, Uttarakhand
Valley of Flowers is an old trek that will help you get used to hiking. With cabins and well-marked tracks, it’s a great way to ease into hiking in a beautiful part of the world. Trekkers talk about the Valley of Flowers trek in the Himalayas as if it were a tale. It is one of the oldest known treks in India. In 2002, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which gave it worldwide attention. Even though this trek is very rewarding, it is not for beginners because the terrain is hard and the level is moderate. So, if you are new to hiking, you should think about other Best Himalayan treks for beginners in India before going on this one.
9) Har Ki Dun – Ruinsara Tal Trek:
- Duration: 8 days
- Difficulty: Moderate | Level 3
- Highest Altitude: 11,850 ft
- Best time: All year, except monsoon
- Location: Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand
Har Ki Dun is a trek rich in culture and tradition. Even though it’s a little hard, it’s a great way to see the rural towns of Uttarakhand and the Ruinsara Valley up close. Har Ki Dun Trek, also called “The Valley of Gods,” is in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 12,000 feet. It is a beautiful place for those who love nature and are just starting out. There are lots of plants and animals here and it is connected to the Baspa Valley by the Borsu Pass. Yamuna River also starts from this trek. This trek is fascinating as the colors change with the seasons, there are lush green valleys and you can see the sky-high peaks. Meet the Himalayan monal and other animals. Making it one of the best Himalayan treks in India for beginners who want to go on mountain treks experiences.
10) Bhrigu Lake Trek:
- Duration: 4 days
- Difficulty: Moderate | Level 2
- Highest Altitude: 14,009 ft
- Best time: Monsoon
- Location: Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh
Bhrigu Lake is recommended for beginners due to its accessibility and stunning landscapes. In just four days, you’ll trek to a high-altitude lake surrounded by vast grasslands and snow-capped mountains. The frozen lake in June is a sight to behold. The Bhrigu Lake trek is one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners in India. It is in Himachal Pradesh, close to Manali. It is not only important in mythology, but it also has beautiful grasslands. Which you can see within a few minutes of starting the hike.
Most alpine meadows are difficult to access and take several days to reach. But the lush green fields of Bhrigu Lake look like they are right outside your door. Nature lovers will adore this hike since it offers vistas of Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar, snow sheets in July, rich vegetation from August to September, and wildflowers. It’s a short but exciting climb of 14,000 feet, making it a great option for beginners and people looking for a wilderness experience.
11) Beas Kund Trek:
- Duration: 4 days
- Difficulty: Moderate | Level 1
- Highest Altitude: 12,772 ft
- Best time: Monsoon
- Location: Solang, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Beas Kund is a trek for beginners that is like Bhrigu Lake and can be reached from Manali. This valley trek takes you to where the Beas River starts. Along the way, there are beautiful campsites, snow-covered hills, and lots of beauty in the valley. Beas Kund, a renowned trek near Manali, offers a remarkable experience for beginners. It takes you to where the river Beas starts, which is in a place with green fields and tall mountains. This trek combines the allure of snowy peaks, verdant meadows, and an emerald lake. Even though it’s good for beginners, you need to be ready for the climb from 8,000 feet to over 12,000 feet. Beas Kund is a gem that is one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners in India. It offers a mountain trek adventure you will never forget.
12) Hampta Pass Trek:
- Duration: 6 days
- Difficulty: Moderate | Level 3
- Highest Altitude: 14,065 ft
- Best time: Monsoon
- Location: Kullu Valley, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Hampta Pass isn’t usually a good choice for beginners, but you should think about it if you’re in good shape or willing to train. This high mountain pass treks from the beauty of Kullu to the starkness of Lahaul. The views are dramatic and will stay with you forever. Hampta Pass, in Himachal Pradesh, is a rare gem among the treks in the Himalayas. It is 14,000 feet above sea level.
There is a big difference between the lush green Kullu Valley, with its forests and blooming flowers, and the dry, stark Lahaul scenery. When you cross the pass, it feels like you’re going from the Valley of Flowers in Himachal to the bleak but interesting Spiti Valley. The trip to Hampta Pass is an adventure in and of itself. Trekkers cross cliffs and wait for the big reveal of the pass over the course of six exciting days and 25 km. It is without a question one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners in India.
13) Tarsar Marsar Trek:
- Duration: 7 days
- Difficulty: Moderate | Level 3
- Highest Altitude: 13,165 ft
- Best time: Monsoon
- Location: Anantnag District, Jammu & Kashmir
Tarsar Marsar is a trek that almost feels too good for beginners. It has some of Kashmir’s most beautiful sights, like highland lakes, mountain passes, and green fields. The trek is a great way to have a fascinating experience, but it does take a good level of health. People often say that Tarsar Marsar is one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners in India. It is a beautiful trip through the heart of Kashmir.
This hike shows you how beautiful mountain lakes are, and you can even camp by their royal blue shores. This trek is a unique opportunity to wander around the Tarsar and Sundarsar lakes. From there you get to see many beautiful views. The cloud-covered Marsar Lake, which is hard to find, adds a sense of mystery to the journey. Tarsar Marsar is a great place for people who have never been on a mountain trek before because it has so many beautiful views.
14) Nafran Valley Trek:
- Duration: 7 days
- Difficulty: Moderate – Difficult | Level 1
- Highest Altitude: 13,789 ft
- Best time: Monsoon
- Location: Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir
Nafran Valley is a lesser-known gem among Indian treks. It is beautiful and exciting as famous hikes like Tarsar Marsar and Kashmir Great Lakes. It’s a trip that’s getting known for its alpine lakes, typical Kashmiri scenery, and high alpine parts. I have put together a list of the best treks in the Himalayas for both new and expert hikers. I have spent a lot of time in India looking at its beautiful sights.
The Kashmir Great Lakes and Tarsus Marser walking trips, which are two of our most popular, set a high bar. So it was like looking for an elephant with wings to find a great way. Now, seven years later, we’re doing the trip to Nafran Valley. A jewel that is just as beautiful, interesting, and exciting as its famous predecessors. This shows how beautiful it is to trek in the Himalayas, whether you’ve done it before or not.
15) Sandakphu Trek:
- Duration: 7 days
- Difficulty: Moderate | Level 3
- Highest Altitude: 11,930 ft
- Best time: All year, except monsoon
- Location: Darjeeling District, West Bengal
Even though Sandakphu is pretty long, fit beginners can do it. At the edge of India and Nepal, the landscape is always changing. Here you can see the world’s four biggest mountains. The trek offers a unique experience, from camping in tea houses to the cultural richness of the trail. The Sandakphu-Phalut Trek is one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners in India, and it is unique. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see four of the world’s largest mountains and a mix of cultures that is both educational and special. This walk is a spiritual trip into the heart of the Himalayas. With its beautiful sunrises and sunsets and thick bamboo and rhododendron woods. It is one of the best mountain treks for beginners.
16) Triund Trek, Himachal Pradesh:
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highest Altitude: 2,875 meters
- Best Time: March-June, Sept-Dec
- Location: McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh
Triund trek starts in McLeod Ganj, where the Dalai Lama lives. The path goes through oak and rhododendron woods and gives you great views of the Himalayas. It is a great way to get started hiking in the area and can be done on a weekend.
17) Nag Tibba Trek, Uttarakhand:
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Highest Altitude: 3,022 meters
- Best Time: March to June, September to December
- Location: McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh
Nag Tibba, also known as the ‘Serpent’s Peak,’ is a fantastic option for beginners. The trail winds through oak and rhododendron forests, providing a chance to witness stunning vistas of the Himalayas. It’s a perfect introduction to trekking in the region and can be completed in a weekend.
18) Kheerganga Trek, Himachal Pradesh:
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highest Altitude: 2,960 meters (approximately)
- Best Time: May to June, September to November
- Location: Parvati Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Kheerganga is a trek to a hot spring that is known for its beautiful scenery and healing hot water baths. The trail isn’t too hard, so it’s good for people who are just starting out. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming villages and lush forests.
19) Chopta Chandrashila Trek, Uttarakhand:
- Duration: 4-5 Days
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Highest Altitude: 4,000 meters (Chandrashila Peak)
- Best Time: April to June and September to November
- Location: Chopta, Uttarakhand
The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is a fun trip that takes you to the Tungnath Temple, which is the world’s highest Shiva temple. The trek offers majestic views of snow-capped peaks and dense forests. It’s a great choice for people who are beginners and want to learn more about the spiritual and natural parts of the Himalayas.
20) Gidara Bugyal Trek:
- Duration: 7 Days
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Region: Uttarakhand
- Best time to do the Gidara Bugyal Trek: Summer, Spring
The Gidara Bugyal Trek in Uttarakhand offers a 7-day journey through stunning high-altitude meadows. It’s moderately to moderately difficult (Level 2) and best enjoyed in summer and spring. The trek boasts an extensive meadow, possibly larger than Ali Bedni Bugyal. A unique feature is the enchanting ridge walk. The campsites, nestled in the Gidara grasslands after the forest section, provide a serene and awe-inspiring experience for trekkers. This trek promises an unforgettable adventure in the Himalayas.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, as we move into 2024, I can look forward to a wide range of the best Himalayan treks for beginners. These treks not only show you beautiful parts of nature, but they are also a great way to start hiking. Even though I have focused on these easy options. But it is important to know that Buran Valley, Rupin Pass, Kashmir Great Lakes, and Gaumukh Tapovan are ready for those who want to push themselves. These Himalayan odysseys are more than treks. They give you a deeper connection with nature and a deeper sense of accomplishment. So, when you put on your hiking boots, know that the mountains are calling you. Traveling in the Himalayas will be an experience you will never forget.
FAQs
Yes, the mentioned treks are suitable for beginners with proper preparation.
The ideal time varies for each trek, so check the recommended months.
It’s advisable to have a local guide for a safe and enriching experience.
Many tour operators offer Himalayan trek packages; research and book one in advance.
While there may not be strict age limits, ensure you’re physically fit for the chosen trek.
Triund is often thought to be the easiest hike in the Himalayas. It has beautiful views of the Dhauladhar mountains and the Kangra valley. This hike is great for first-time hikers and can be done on a weekend.
Some of the best treks for beginners in India include Triund, Nag Tibba, Beas Kund, and Kheerganga.
Yes, the Kedarkantha trek is easy enough for people who have never been hiking before. It’s important to be physically ready and have done some hiking before.
Along with Triund and Nag Tibba, Chopta Chandrashila walk is another walk in India that is easy enough for first-timers.
Stok Kangri, Chadar Trek, Pin Parvati Pass, and Roopkund are some of the hardest treks in India.
The Valley of Flowers trek in Uttarakhand is considered by many walkers to be one of the most beautiful and scenic treks in India.
Focus on your physical health by doing things like camping, running, and riding to get ready for a Himalayan trip. Strength training and stretching routines can also help. Gradually build up your stamina and hike with a backpack to get ready for travel. A healthy diet and staying refreshed are also important for fitness and energy. A customized training plan can be made by talking to a fitness expert or hiking guide.