Monsoon Treks in Himalayas

June to September (Monsoon) is the best time to undertake monsoon treks in Himalayas as the dense forests, terraced fields, and hills become verdant due to the heavy rain. However, you need to be cautious while trekking in this season as the trails become slippery and there are chances of landslides.

1. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek: Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is one of the best monsoon treks in Himalayas traversing through diverse landscapes such as high mountain passes and alpine meadows. You’re treated to the breathtaking vistas of the crystal-clear alpine lakes during the trekking expedition.

2. Beas Kund Trek: Beas Kund Trek is a moderate difficulty level trek that takes you to the source of the Beas River. During monsoon, the trail comes alive with gurgling streams, blooming wildflowers, and vibrant meadows.

3. Valley of Flowers Trek: Your monsoon trek tours in Himalayas won’t be complete if you do not hike to the Valley of Flowers. In August you’re treated with the views of rare flowers like Himalayan Blue Poppy and Brahma Kamal.

4. Tarsar Marsar Trek: Tarsar Marsar Trek offers a rewarding adventure to the trekkers in August as the lakes are at their fullest and the entire region gets transformed into a lush green paradise. During this trekking expedition in August, you can see the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda Rivers descend to the lower plains. 

Yes, it is safe to trek in the Himalayas during monsoon if you take proper precautions and do careful planning. Choose monsoon Himalayas treks that are not prone to landslides and flash floods. Always carry proper gear like sturdy hiking boots and waterproof clothing to protect yourself from rain. You can also go hiking in a group during monsoon to deal with emergencies in a better way.

The average temperature in the Himalayas during monsoon can range anywhere around 10°C to 25°C in lower elevations and 5°C to 15°C in higher altitudes. The temperature can vary depending on the trek you’re undertaking, elevation, and time of the day.

If you’re undertaking monsoon treks in Himalayas, you must invest in good quality rain gear and opt for waterproof hiking boots. Pack moisture-wicking, quick-drying clothing that is ideal for layering. In some regions, leeches can be there during this season so you should carry leech socks or salt to deter them.

Valley of Flowers is the best monsoon trek in the Himalayas as during this season you can see a vibrant display of alpine flowers in the region. During your monsoon trek tours in Himalayas to the Valley of Flowers, you’ll witness milky-white streams, unique flora and fauna, and snow-capped peaks.

The Stok Kangri Trek is a challenging trek with harsh weather conditions and lots of ascents and descents. It is the highest trekkable summit that tests your willpower and stamina. You should undertake this trek only if you’re an experienced trekker and have a good fitness level. A good level of muscle strength is also needed to reach the summit of the Stok Kangri.

Here are some of the best Difficult treks in Himalayas:

1. Stok Kangri Trek: Situated at 20,000 feet height from the sea, Stok Kangri is one of the most challenging monsoon treks in Himalayas. During the trekking expedition, you have to face inconsistent weather, high altitude, and lots of ascents and descents.

2. Goecha La Trek: Goecha La Trek is one of the most difficult monsoon Himalayas treks that takes you to an altitude of 16,207 ft. From there, you can have a view of the Kanchenjunga Mountain, the world’s third highest peak.

3. Markha Valley Trek: Markha Valley is a physically demanding trek that involves ascending to high altitudes and hiking through steep ascents and descents. You may have to walk over slippery areas and narrow ridges during the trekking expedition.

4. Chadar Trek: The icy cold temperatures and rugged terrains make Chadar Trek one of the most difficult Himalayan monsoon treks. As you undertake this trek, you get to walk on the frozen river of Zanskar which is not an ordinary feat.

Here are some of the best Summer Treks in Himalayas:

1. Hampta Pass Trek: Hampta Pass Trek is one of the best summer treks in the Himalayas as the sky is clear and the weather is perfect for outdoor exploration. In summer, you’re treated to surreal views of the cascading waterfalls and lush green meadows.

2. Goechala Trek: Goechala is a fantastic summer trek with moderate weather, clear views and less slippery conditions. In Summer, the trails are filled with beautiful rhododendron flowers making the region look like a heavenly paradise. 

3. Har Ki Dun Trek: Another trek perfect for summer exploration is the Har Ki Dun Trek, a 7 day round trail that allows you to explore the rich flora and fauna, scenic valleys and mythological stories. In summer snow melts in lower reaches, allowing vibrant floral bloom.

4. Indrahar Pass Trek: Indrahar Pass Trek offers trekkers clear visibility and optimal hiking conditions during the summer season. Since the trails are free from snow during summer they become accessible and safer for trekkers.