Uttarakhand – the name is enough for boosting adrenaline. From adventure to spirituality, it’s hard to find a balanced state like this one. In short, you can experience the next-level exhilaration with the top treks in Uttarakhand.
Now, the question arises when we think about the difficulty level. Well, the good thing about Debvoomi is it has a good mix of treks. Even though it’s your first time, you can have a blissful experience.
That’s why we have researched and handpicked the best adventurous treks in this Himalayan state. In this article, you will learn about Uttarakhand’s top thrilling treks. Keep reading to learn more details.
Contents
- Top Treks in Uttarakhand
- 1. Kedartal Trek
- 2. Valley of Flowers
- 3. Har Ki Dun Trek
- 4. Brahmtal Trek
- 5. Kalindi Khal Trek
- 6. Satopanth Lake Trek
- 7. Kedarkantha Trek
- 8. Dayara Bugyal
- 9. Auden’s Col Trek
- 10. Bali Pass Trek
- 11. Rupin Pass Trek
- 12. Nag Tibba Trek
- 13. Chopta Chandrashila Trek
- 14. Gomukh Tapovan Trek
- 15. Pindari Glacier Trek
- Packing Tips For Uttarakhand Trekking
- Conclusion
Top Treks in Uttarakhand
A successful trek needs a lot of planning. But before that, choosing the right place is most important. Uttarakhand has been a hot cake for trekkers. Besides having some significant pilgrimages, this mountain state offers some incredible adventures. In the following list, let’s find out about the top treks in Uttarakhand:
1. Kedartal Trek
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to High
- Best Time: September-October or May-June
- Duration: 7 Days
Located near Gangotri, Kedartal is a magnificent natural lake in the Garhwal Himalayas. This trek route is ideal for all mountain lovers as they can discover some significant peaks of the majestic Himalayan ranges including Bhirgupanth peak, Jogin peak, and Thalayasagar peak.
Because of the high altitude, this glacial lake is covered with snow most of the time. Besides witnessing the jaw-dropping views, you can see get sight of iconic mountain wildlife species such as Goral, Black Bear, and Blue Sheep.
2. Valley of Flowers
- Difficulty Level: Very Easy
- Best Time: June-October
- Duration: 5 Days
When we are talking about some exciting treks in Uttrakhand, we can’t miss out on the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO Heritage Site. The best thing about Valley of Flowers is you don’t need an expert guide for this trek. In fact, you don’t need help from a local trek agency.
As the name suggests, the Valley of Flowers trek’s key attraction is wildflowers. So, you have to visit this postcard-perfect valley during the monsoon. If you are a newbie, you can start your trekking experience with this place. You can pocket Hemkund Sahib with this trek as well.
3. Har Ki Dun Trek
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best Time: March-June and October-December
- Duration: 7 Days
If you are looking for an easy trek route, you can choose Har Ki Dun. The key significance of this trek is the majestic Tons River Valley. Surrounded by dense woodlands, this breathtaking place gives a divine vibe.
The pre-monsoon season is the best time to explore this place in Uttarakhand. You can witness some amazing mountain birds during this time. If you are a snow lover, you can choose this trail in December. Overall, an ideal trek for beginners.
4. Brahmtal Trek
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time: December-February
- Duration: 14 Days
Located opposite Roopkund Trek, the Brahmatal trek can be the best experience for you. If you are a snow enthusiast, you have to choose this trek once in your lifetime. Covered with snow, this trail is a paradise for snow lovers.
The highlight of this trek is the unique route that is filled with magnificent landscapes. On the other hand, Brahmtal is very popular among winter trekkers. However, it can be difficult for newbie trekkers.
5. Kalindi Khal Trek
- Difficulty Level: Very Difficult
- Best Time: July to September
- Duration: 15 Days
Nested in the mountains of the Garhwal Himalayas, Kalindi Khal is a high-altitude trek that every adventure lovers prefer. The fascinating trek starts from Gangotri and ends at Badrinath, making it one of the best treks in Uttarakhand. The best part is you will explore some outstanding glaciers on this trek route.
Get ready for knee-deep snow and boulders that will make your journey more adventurous. Don’t forget to carry your camera and capture some excellent shots of the majestic Alaknanda and Bhagirathi River Valley.
6. Satopanth Lake Trek
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to High
- Best Time: May to June
- Duration: 7 Days
If you are looking for an alternative trek for Kalindi Khal, you can go for Satopanth Lake. In fact, some trekkers also club this one with Kalindi Khal. However, the greenery of this route is the key attraction.
Plus, you will get a glimpse of some picturesque Himalayan peaks including Balakun, Neelkanth, and Swargarohini. After reaching the breathtaking lake, you will get an incredible view of Chaukhamba Peak which is also reflecting on the water of Satopanth Lake.
7. Kedarkantha Trek
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best Time: December to April
- Duration: 5 Days
Kedarkantha is one of the best treks in Uttarakhand if it’s your first time. The trek starts from the village of Sankri with an exceptional route. This trek is very popular during the winter months. And you will get a heavenly feel while exploring the route of Kedarkantha. After reaching the point, you will get a 360-degree of the postcard-perfect surroundings.
8. Dayara Bugyal
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time: May to July
- Duration: 7 Days
Nested at a height of 3,408 meters above sea level, Dayara Bugyal is one of the most underrated treks in Uttarakhand. The best part of this trek is it will take you to a lush green meadow where you will meet native people.
If snow isn’t your category and you are looking for an easy trek, you can choose Dayara Bugyal. Plus, this one is ideal for adventure junkies of all age groups.
9. Auden’s Col Trek
- Difficulty Level: Very Difficult
- Best Time: May to October
- Duration: 16 Days
Pro trekkers love something challenging. If you have been looking for a thrilling trek, Auden’s Col is the one for you. In simple words, this is one of the hardest routes in Devbhomi. Starting from Gangotri, this route will take you to the Rudra Gaira Base Camp where you will get a breathtaking view of snow-capped mountains.
However, it’s not ideal for beginners. Plus, you have to start this trek with an expert guide. You also need high medical fitness to complete Auden’s Col trek.
10. Bali Pass Trek
- Difficulty Level: Difficult
- Best Time: May to June and September to October
- Duration: 10 Days
When we are talking about the most challenging treks in Uttarakhand, we can’t miss out on Bali Pass. The best part of this route is you can explore the splendid Govind Wildlife Sanctuary where you will find exotic flora and fauna.
Another attraction of this route is the picture-perfect Ruinsara Tal. Keep unearthing the magnificent route and capture the unparalleled views of the Bandarpoonch and Kalanag peaks.
11. Rupin Pass Trek
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Best Time: September to October
- Duration: 7 Days
Rupin Pass Trek is popular for its fantastic landscapes and thrilling route. The best part is you don’t have to be a pro trekker to complete the adventure. This amazing trek starts from Dhaula and takes around 7 days.
You have to climb almost 10,000 feet to complete Rupin Pass Trek. You will pass several breathtaking mountain villages while climbing Rupin Pass.
12. Nag Tibba Trek
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time: April to June
- Duration: 5 Days
Nag Tibba is another amazing trek for beginners. The best thing we love about this route is the panoramic view of the surroundings. Many people choose this spectacular route to see sunrise and sunset from the hilltop.
After reaching the end point of Nag Tibba, you will get a postcard-perfect view of the Gangotri, Bandarpunch peak, and Kedarnath peaks.
13. Chopta Chandrashila Trek
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best Time: March to June
- Duration: 2 Days
Chopta Chandrashila is one of the easiest treks in Uttarakhand. Popularly known as the ‘Mini Switzerland’, Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary offers charming hills and exotic flora and fauna. The best part of this adventurous trek is Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world.
14. Gomukh Tapovan Trek
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to High
- Best Time: May to October
- Duration: 2 Days
Do you want to discover the birthplace of the River Ganga? Join the excellent trek of Gomukh Tapovan with incredible mountain views. Located at an elevation of 4,400 meters, this place will give you a thrilling experience. Capture every moment of your trek and uncover the wonders of mother nature.
15. Pindari Glacier Trek
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Best Time: April to November
- Duration: 10 Days
Located in the Bageshwar district, Pindari Glacier Trek is one of the most magnificent adventures of this state. The scenic beauty of this trek is unmatchable. Besides exploring the beauty of nature, you can learn about this place’s rich culture. Discover stunning waterfalls and lush meadows on the way to Pindari Glacier.
Packing Tips For Uttarakhand Trekking
Before planning your first Uttarakhand trek, you must consider some crucial factors. In this case, packing is one of the top considerations. If it’s your first trek, you need to pack some essential things. Let’s find out what’s the top things you have to pack for Uttarakhand trekking:
- Basic Essentials
Just like other tours, a trek needs some basic essentials such as valid ID proof, rain cover, backpack, pet water bottle, trekking shoes, hand lamp, LED torch, raincoat, and umbrella.
- Clothing Essentials
Almost all treks in Uttarakhand need the same type of clothing essentials. So, make sure you pack 2 pairs of tees and track pants, 2 pairs of cotton socks, 2 pairs of woolen socks, 2 full-sleeve sweaters, thermal inner, feather jacket, light towel, sun cap, 2 pairs of gloves, UV-protected sunglasses, and a few plastic bags.
- Medicine Kit
You can’t travel without your medicine kit. Well, when it comes to trekking, you have to choose everything carefully. Make sure you include some essential medicines including Combiflam, Crocin, Vomistop, Digene, and Band-aid.
- Accessories
There are some essential accessories you need to carry for trekking. In this case, you can pack a hiking pole, camera, extra batteries, and a headlamp.
Conclusion
The first trek needs a lot of research. So, if it’s your first time, make sure you choose a suitable trek route. And Uttarakhand is the ideal place to start your trekking journey. There are so many options available as we penned down the best treks in this Himalayan state.
Ruchira is the founder of India Travelpedia, a writer by passion and profession. Besides writing, she’s a travel buff, foodie, and culture enthusiast.
