The young Himalaya sure knows how to have FUN! This long chain of mountains have good terms with adventure freaks, nature lovers and wildlife conservationists…it’s like the charm of these Himalayan mountains is so irresistible that one can’t help being drawn towards it time and time again. The Northern and North Eastern belt of India through which the Himalayan Mountains runs, is reckoned to be some of the best adventure destinations in the country. Undoubtedly, amongst all the other adventure activities in Indian Himalaya Trekking is the most exhilarating activity one can choose to pick. The states like Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Sikkim offers thrill and tons of fun to those who yearn to explore the challenging yet beautiful trekking trails of Indian Himalaya. It does not matter if you are an amateur or an expert; there is always something or the other in store for you on this North and North Eastern belt. This time around we have for you is a list of best places for trekking in Northern India that are both challenging and full of knowledge. Let us traverse together through the list below!
* Dodital TrekA simple trek that passes through dense forests, small rivulets and large grasslands, Dodital trek is filled with the pristine beauty of nature that never fails to allure the visitor. Dodital is a small lake situated in Uttarkashi district at an altitude of about 3000m above sea level. The lake is fringed by Rhododendron, Fir and Oak and is the home to the Golden Trout Fish. There is a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha situated at the side of the Lake that enhances the beauty of this already picturesque place. Since trekking to Dodital is easy, it has become one of the most popular treks in Uttarakhand. The trek begins from Sangamchatti and after passing through the beautiful Agoda Village and Manjhi one finally reaches Dodital.
* Baraadsar Lake TrekThe Garhwal Himalaya is just magical, as it mesmerizes and captivates the heart of many. This particular trek to Baraadsar Lake is indeed a good way to explore in great detail the beauty of Garhwal region. The trek to this stunning lake is also an adventurous one, as it has a trail that crosses through valleys, boulder-strewn paths and a ridge (it divides Rupin and Supin Valley). The Baraadsar Lake Trek begins from Dhaula and further leads to Bitri, Masundha Dhar, Dhalka Dhar and opens to a large meadow area of Dev Bhasa. It is only crossing through the meadows; one shall reach the Baraadsar Lake. The highlight of the trek is Mansudha Dhar, from where one can see the sun coming out from the back of Swargarohini Peak; the view is simply breathtaking! After trekking to Baraadsar Lake, cross through Rehla and Phitari to reach Dhara, which is the confluence of Supin and Obra. From Dhara move towards Jakhol, the ending point of the trek.
* Kalindikhal Pass TrekThis is the Big Daddy of all the treks; Kalindikhal Pass Trek is indeed one of the most challenging treks in Garhwal Himalaya. Since, it is an arduous trek, only veteran trekkers are allowed as it requires knowledge of some mountaineering as well. It is one thrilling experience where one encounters small natural lakes, rough glaciers, crevassed snowfields and valleys. The trek to Kalindikhal Pass begins from Bhojwassa. The trek further continues along the side of Bhagirathi River, from where the views of the Indian Himalaya are absolutely stunning. From Bhojwassa, the trail moves to Gangotri Glacier and one can enjoy the breathtaking view of Shivling, Bhagirathi, Sudarshan, Thelu peaks and Kedardome. A steady upward trail leads to Vasuki Tal via Chaturangi Glacier and further to Khara Pathar and finally to the base of Kalindikhal. From here start your trek to Kalindikhal via Raja Parav. One can even trek to Badrinath from here via Arwatal, Ghastoli and Mana Village.
* Ripchar ValleyIt is a noteworthy trek in Ladakh that offers panoramic views of three gorgeous ranges namely, the Great Himalayan Range, Zanskar Range and the Karakoram Range. Also, one has the opportunity to interact with the shepherds and nomads and learn about their simple lives. Thus, the trek to Ripchar Valley is worth giving a try in the Indian Himalaya. Ripchar Valley trek begins from the majestic Lamayuru Monastery and then passes through a trail that is replete with willow trees to Hinju. Further a steep ascent takes you to Prinkiti La; a gradual descent later leads the trail to Sumdo Chenmo. The trek becomes gentle by the time it reaches Lanak. Further the trail continues to a small pass called Dungduchun La (4700m) from where the view is spectacular. From the pass a gradual descent takes one to the beautiful village called Chilling, where nomadic and rural settlements can be seen, and it is also the last destination of Ripchar Valley trek.
* Darcha-Padum TrekIt is one of the most popular treks in Ladakh as it covers two states (Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh). Darcha-Padum trek is amongst the most beautiful treks that can be accomplished by crossing valleys, high mountain passes, quaint human settlements, Tibetan Monasteries and rivers. Apart from giving the opportunity to witness the beauty of landscape, this trek gives a offer an insight on the culture and lifestyle of the the nomadic tribes of Ladakh. The trek begins from Darcha, which is situated in Lahaul Valley in Himachal Pradesh, and ends at Padum, which is tucked in the stunning Zanskar region of Ladakh. The trekking trail of Darcha-Padum trek leads past the boulder field, Rarick and Chikka (last villages of Lahaul Valley) to reach Palemo. After a gradual walk on a large boulder-strewn meadow area and crossing several small streams one reaches Zanskar Sumdo. From here a short ascent to Shingola begins; one has to ascend a rough trail to reach a large flower-strewn meadow that leads to the foot of Shingola and further to Chummik Marpo. After crossing an ice-chilled stream a deep descend to Zanskar Valley starts and one has to wade through Kargyak River to reach Lakhang. More chilling streams had to be crossed to reach Kargyak Village from Lakhang. Purni will be the next destination of the trail, which is situated on the confluence of Tsarap and Kargyak River. From Purni you can trek to the exquisite and lesser explored Phutkal monastery. Taking a trail along the river Tserap one can reach Raru via a beautiful village called Ichhar. From Raru, one has to trek to Padum via Mune Gompa and Bardan. From Bardan, take a route to Rangdum and then from Rangdum drive to Kargil and then to Leh.