15

Best Himalayan Treks for First Timers

Temperature: Day: 8°C to 15°C and Night: -5°C to 3°C

Kedarkantha Trek Distance:  20 km

Maximum Altitude: 12,500 ft

Kedarkantha Trek Difficulty Level: Easy To Moderate 

Railway Station: Dehradun is the nearest railway station 

Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

Base Camp: Sankri (10 hrs drive from Dehradun)

ATM: Purola has the last ATM point before your trek begins. 

Meals during Kedar Kantha Trek:

Everyday Snacks, breakfast, lunch and dinner (vegetarian) are included in the package

Stay during Kedar Kantha Trek:

Tent or Guesthouse stay on triple/quad sharing basis
Standard tents/Hotels/Guest House with attached washroom in Sankri
Alpine tents in Juda – ka - Talab
Alpine tents in Base of Kedarkantha

There are two different variants available with this package as given below:
Variant 1: Kedarkantha Trek Ex Sankri- Rs. 6000/- per person
Variant 2: Kedarkantha Trek Ex Dehradun- Rs. 8000/- per person

How to reach?

Haridwar has a railway station which is well-connected from all metropolitan cities and nearest airport is Dehradun - Jolly Grant.

About the Kuari Pass Trek:

A top winter trekking destination in India, the Kuari Pass Trek is tucked away in the gorgeous Garhwal region of the Himalayas. This trail, also known as the Lord Curzon trail, is situated at an elevation of 12,516 feet and offers both historical value and breathtaking natural scenery. 

You can experience the vibrant local traditions of Uttarakhand as you travel through villages of Tugasi, Guling, and Khullara with the Kuari Pass trek package. The Pangarchulla, Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Dronagiri, Hathi Ghoda, and Nilgiri mountain ranges are among the breathtaking sights that can be seen from the trail. 

The spectacular vista of the Nanda Devi Massif, which provides an amazing backdrop for stargazing, is the trek's high point. With an easy to moderate difficulty level, the Kuari Pass trip is suitable for both novice and seasoned hikers.

You may come across the paw prints of snow leopards and Himalayan bears throughout your walk, offering a unique look into the local wildlife. The span of November-March is the best time for Kuari Pass trek because of the perfect weather that makes for an unforgettable experience.

Departure Dates (2024)

November: 3, 9, 11, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30

December: 1, 7, 8, 10, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31

January: 4, 5, 6, 11, 12

Kuari Pass Trek Quick Facts:

• Duration:6D/5N
• Kuari Pass Trek Distance: 33 km
• Kuari Pass Altitude: 12,516 ft
• Difficulty Level: Easy To Moderate
• Kuari PassTemperature: Day: 13°C to 18°C and Night: -3°C to 4°C
• Best time for Kuari Pass Trek: March to mid-June & mid-September to early November 
• Railway Station: Haridwar is the nearest railway station 
• Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
• ATM: The last ATM is available in Joshimath
• Start-End Point: Haridwar

With mesmerizing summit views of Kedar, Chaukhamba, and the Himalayas, the Chandrashila trek, at an altitude of 12,083 ft. is one of the most suitable treks for beginners. A visit to the holy Tugnath temple, famous for being the highest Shiva temple in the world offers you a vantage point in the trek.

The journey to the trek takes you through Rishikesh, Sari, and Chopta, and the way is surrounded by vivacious patches of pine, oaks, and rhododendron. When here you can also indulge in bird-watching activities and lakeside picnics. Do not miss watching, the golden-breasted eagles that are a mesmerizing sight from the summit.

About Hampta Pass Trekking

Hampta Pass trek is one of the most picturesque adventure in the Indian Himalayas that takes you through the lush green valleys of Kullu to the rocky, barren landscapes of Lahaul and Spiti.Thrillophilia’s Hampta Pass trek packages offer you to embark on a journey that gives you an essence of the true beauty of mountains.

Our all inclusive packages include all the travel arrangements starting from accommodation in hygienic campsites, transportation to and from the trek’s base camp  and healthy meals. Thrillophilia operates the treks through a vast network of trusted tour operators who know bits and pieces of the journey, in depth. The highly experienced trek leaders guide you throughout the journey and often take you to offbeat places to soak in the best views. 

The Hampta Pass trek route begins from the quaint village of Jobra from where you hike towards your campsite in Chika. The next day, start ascending towards Balu ka Ghera which is nestled amidst the alpine meadows and surrounded by the gigantic peaks all around. You will be rewarded with beautiful views of the snow-covered peaks and witness the terrain changing from meadows to boulders. You will then commence the final leg of your journey to reach your destination- the Hampta Pass, situated at an altitude of 14,000 ft. Spend some peaceful time there in laps of the Himalayas.

After exploring the remote village of Hampta, proceed to descend towards Chatruwhich is one of the main highlights of the trek. It is the junction point of the roads to Spiti Valley, Rohtang Pass and Hampta Pass. 

So what are you waiting for ? Pack your rucksacks, tie up your trekking shoes and get ready for a life-changing journey through the deep gorges, lush valleys and rocky trails of upper Himachal. 

Quick facts about Hampta Pass Trekking:

Start Point/End Point: Manali Base Camp

Duration: 4 Nights & 5 Days

Hampta Pass Trek Height: 14,100ft

Hampta Pass Trek Difficulty Level: Moderate 

Trekking Distance: 35kms

Best time to do Hampta Pass Trek: Mid June - September

Known as the most beautiful trek in the world with the blue Primula, Valley of Flowers Uttarakhand is a must do trek for you. Tucked up at a high altitude this trek is renewed with the Mountaineers and adventure seekers.  Blessed with exotic flowers, faunas and magnificent views this Valley of Flowers trek will take you to the world of snow clad mountains and high cliffs. High in the grand Himalayas of the Garhwal district sprawls this captivating valley. The best time to do the Valley of Flowers trek is during the month of mid-July to mid-August.  

For this Valley Of Flowers trek, you will have to trek from Govindghat, on the route to Hemkund Sahib, up to  Ghangaria which is quite an exhilarating climb. Catch the glimpse of the Himalayan beauty while you head out on this trek. At an altitude of 14,400 ft, you will come across the large clear water lake which will make you stare at it for long. This hidden jewel is a unique habitat and home to millions of species of wildflowers such as saxifrages, sediams, lilies, poppy, calendular, daisies, geranium, zinnia and petunia.  Not just this you will come across varieties of colourful butterflies as you continue your Valley of Flowers trek. 

This valley is at an altitude of 3250 m and above. This valley is also a core zone of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve with an expanse of 87.5 sq km which is just a colourful paradise with alpine flowers. According to the legends, it is believed that this is the place where Pawan Putra Hanuman had collected Sanjeevani Buti to cure Laxman.  Listen to the sound of birds chirping and the musical sound of the stream during the Valley of Flowers trek. The soothing breeze and the enchanting beauty lure away the nature lovers and the photography lovers. 

This valley was also declared as a National Park in 1982 and is a world heritage site. One can also find a variety of rare and endangered species of animals like Asiatic black bear, brown bear, snow leopard, blue sheep and more. With the backdrop of the mountains and the scenic trail, you will feel as you have definitely landed in the land of fairies.

Valley of Flowers Trek Highlights:

- Blessed with the verdant beauty, valley is filled with 300 different types of flowers.

- Get a chance to witness the vivid flora and fauna of the region like brahamkamal, saxifrages, sediams, lilies, blue poppy, calendula, daisies, dog flower and brown bear, blue sheep etc.

- Catch the glimpse of the famous Hathi Parvat and Saptrishi peaks while you head out on this trek.

-  Meet the local people and learn about the culture of this region. Also, do share a cup of tea with them.

- While at Hemkund Sahib take a dip in the holy water and purify your soul.

Quick Facts About Valley of Flowers Trek:

Maximum Altitude: 14,400 ft

Temperature: Day: 12°C-20°C and Night: 4°C-10°C

Valley of Flowers Trek Distance:  47km

Difficulty Level: Easy To Moderate 

Valley of Flowers Trek Starting and Ending Point: The trek starts and ends at Joshimath

Railway Station: Haridwar is the nearest railway station 

Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

Base Camp: Govindghat

ATM: Joshimath is the last place where ATM is there.

There are two different variants available with this package as given below:

Variant 1: Valley of Flowers Trek Ex Joshimath- Rs. 6500/- per person

Variant 2: Valley of Flowers Trek Ex Haridwar- Rs. 9200/- per person

How to reach?

Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun serves as the nearest airport to Haridwar. Local vehicles can be availed from outside the airport to reach Haridwar by road from Dehradun.

About Har Ki Dun Trek:

If you love summer treks to expansive valleys surrounded by lofty peaks, the Har Ki Dun trek trails can definitely mesmerise you. This is a 7-day-long trek that you can easily undertake with the help of Thrillophilia’s expert trek leaders.

Being an easy-moderate level trek, Har Ki Dun receives well-deserved importance in the trekking community worldwide. The name “Har Ki Dun” refers to the “Valley of Lord Mahadev”. Its trails take you through dense forests of pine and deodar trees, along the banks of rapidly flowing Tons and Supin rivers, and across several undulating landscapes. 

This trek journey spans around 43 kilometres (both ways) and touches the highest altitude of 12000 feet. You can plan for Har Ki Dun trekking during the summer or autumn season to get the best of this journey.

One of the main reasons for choosing to undertake this exciting adventure with Thrillophilia lies in our on-ground support. With well-arranged camps, proper food, and immediate rescue facilities, you can find comfort even in the nooks of the mighty Himalayas. 

So, buckle up and book your slots now. Get ready to pack your rucksack and set out to the Valley of Gods, Har Ki Dun!

Har Ki Doon Trek Quick facts:

Duration: 7D/6N

Maximum altitude: 11,675 ft

Har Ki Dun Trek Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Har Ki Dun Trek Distance: 47 KM

Temperature: 10℃ to 15℃ during the day and 2℃ to -5℃ during the night

Best Time to do Har ki Dun Trek: April to Mid-June and October to Mid-November

ATM: Purola has the last ATM before your trek begins

Start/End Point of the trek: Sankri Village

About the trek:

Perched at a towering height of 14,245 ft above sea level, the spectacular Indrahar Pass lies at the border between breathtaking Kangra and Chamba districts. Though a short one, this trek is considered to be a bit challenging as the trekking trail consists of numerous sharp ascents and steep climbs. This is one of the most fascinating treks that Himachal has to offer. Owing to the magnificent view of the might Dhauladhar, the lush green valleys, and the exotic flora and fauna will truly leave you awestruck. The path passes by the placid crystal blue waters of Lake Mankiani and Kareri. Hike through the steep passing mostly through the lush green landscapes of the Dhauladhar Range, this challenging yet tempting trek takes about 4 days to complete.

Start Point/End Point: Mcleodganj - Bhagsu Nag Taxi Stand.

Inclusions:

• Stay: Domed tents on sharing basis cleaned & sanitized on daily basis
• Meals: Breakfast and Lunch or Dinner
• Activities: Trekking & Camping
• Highly experienced trek guide

About Kashmir Great Lakes Trek:

The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a life-changing journey through the most scenic trail of the country. This trek takes you through the turquoise lakes, alpine meadows and lush valleys of Kashmir. Thrillophilia’s Kashmir Great Lakes trek packages allow you to embark on this trek and come with every travel necessity starting from meals, accommodations, transfers, and guides.

We work with a wide network of trusted tour operators who make the journey secure. The guides are local residents and often end up taking you through detours to hidden spots, offering the best views. 

Kashmir Great Lakes’ best time is between July to September with pleasant weather and meadows in full bloom. The trek spanning 7 days and 6 nights, leads you through five different valleys of the region and six alpine lakes. You cover a distance of 75 km in a duration of 6 days starting from Sonmarg and ending at Narang Village. 

On the first day of the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, you’ll journey to Nichnai followed by the second day of your trek, when you’ll reach the twin lakes of Vishansar and Krishansar. The next day involves crossing the challenging Gadsar Pass. As you continue your trek, you’ll pass through the beautiful Satsar Lakes, a series of seven interconnected lakes. The final stretch of the journey takes you to the Gangbal and Nundkol Lakes and concludes with a descent to Naranag. 

So, book your packages from Thrillophilia to leave all your worries behind and embark on this once in a lifetime experience.

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Quick Facts:

Duration: 7D/6N

Great Lakes of Kashmir Trek Distance: 72km

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Altitude: 13,800ft

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Temperature: 17°C-20°C (Max. During Day Time) to 3°C-4°C ( Min. During Night Time)

Best Time to do Kashmir Great Lake Treks: July to September

Railway Station: Jammu is the nearest railway station 

Airport: Srinagar Airport

Start Point: Srinagar

End Point: Srinagar

About Deoria Tal Chandrashila:

Deoria Tal Chandrashila is a popular trekking destination located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. The region is home to many small villages and towns that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the area. The village of Sari, which is the starting point for the trek to Deoria Tal Chandrashila, is a small hamlet located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. You can admire the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the surrounding forests. Starting from Sari village & walking through dense forests, streams, and waterfalls. Located at an altitude of 2,438 meters, the serene lake offers mesmerising reflections of the surrounding mountains. Once you reach Deoria Tal, you can engage in various activities like bird watching, camping, and stargazing. Explore its rich flora and fauna and offers a chance to spot a variety of Himalayan birds and animals. Overall, It is a great way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the tranquillity of nature.

Location : Uttarkashi

Start Point | End Point : Sangam Chatti

Start Time | End Time : The Trek starts at 10:00 AM on Day 1 and ends around 06:00 PM on Day 6

Departure Dates : On Weekend (Except July & August)

About the Dodital Trek:

Nestled high up in the mountains at an altitude of 3310 mts above sea level Dodital trek is another must trek. Known as one of the most beautiful treks in North India this trek has been attracting travelers from far and wide. This trek is named after the rare Himalayan trout which is known as Dodi in the local language. Start the journey from Dehradun, drive till the quaint little village- Sangam chati from Uttarkashi,start the initial trek and see Agoda settlement. 

Enjoy camping near the winsome campsite above the rivulet at Bhebra. Continue trekking through a mixed forest high above the Asi Ganga before entering a side valley leading to Dodital. On the third day trek will be around 6 hours and to a height of 3310m. Catch the glimpse of the Gujar settlement and then make your way through the rhododendron, oak, pine and bamboo forest. Listen to the noise of the distant valleys and the birds chirping during the trek. 

The Dodital Lake is a beautiful campsite surrounded by pine and oak trees. Soak in the beauty of the region and keep staring for long at the lake.Enjoy some birding experience come across a variety of birds like Brown Fronted Woodpecker, Grey Tit, Himalayan Babbler, Red-Billed Blue Magpie, Grey Shrike, Bush Robin, Pink Finch, Munia, Common Chiffchaff, Himalayan Whistling Thrush, Himalayan Tree Pie, Tailor Bird, Himalayan Monal during the trek. This Dodital trek package will definitely provide the best experience of trekking.

About the Tarsar Marsar Trek:

Kashmir the “paradise on earth” and universally proclaimed as the home to the most spectacular treks in the Himalayas. Tarsar Marsar Trek takes the cake among all of them. This breathtaking trek is literally located in the clouds, at an altitude of 13,201 feet. The trail of Tarsar Marsar crosses forests, meadows, rivers and snow-clad mountains of Kashmir, promising spellbinding views. The highlight of the trek is watching three charming alpine lakes, Tarsar, Marsar, and Sundarsar, on your way.

As you trek through these pristine lakes, you will be amazed by the lush green meadows of Kashmir. Embraced by the thick avenues of splendid Chinar tree forest and the spellbinding Lidder river, which is also known as a glacier river flowing through the Kolahoi Glacier. Throughout the whole day during the stay, you will be stunned by variable shades of snow-fed lake changing with the angle of the sun. 

Tarsar Marsar Trek Quick Facts:

Duration: 7D/6N

Maximum Altitude: 13,201 ft

Tarsar Marsar Trekking Difficulty level: Moderate

Tarsar Marsar Trek Distance: 47kms

Temperature Range: During the day: 17°C - 20°C and During the night 3°C - to -4°C

Best Time for Tarsar Marsar Trek: July - September

Railway station: Jammu is the nearest station [ 260kms ]

Airport: Srinagar

Basecamp: Aru (112 km drive from Srinagar approx 4 hours)

Atm: Pahalgam [ But do not rely on the last ATM as it runs out of cash frequently. Withdraw cash at Srinagar or even before that.]

Start point / End Point: ARU

About the Yuksom Dzongri Trek:

The Yuksom Dzongri trek will take you to the heart of the beautiful Sikkim landscape. One will be tasked to make their way through the rugged, challenging and fascinating trails. Offering you a glimpse of some of the magnificent peaks like Kabru (7,353m), Ratong (6,678m), Kanchenjunga (8,534m), Koktang (6,147m), Pandim (6,691m) and Narsingh (5,825m). Along with your way to the Dzongri peak, you can also visit several other attractions as well.

This includes some of the popular and stunning waterfalls within the region, sunset point like Tiger Hill in Darjeeling which will cap off a wonderful trek. The trek will lead you to some of the majestic sights of the mountains and the distant valleys. This trek is considered as a moderate trek. The temperature here might go beyond the freezing point at any time of the year. This exotic trek takes you through the thick pristine forest of Sikkim Himalayas takes you to the highest point of at Dzongri Top around 15000 ft from where one can imbibe the splendour of Kanchenjunga National Park. You will complete this trek in a period of eleven days. 

Come across the famous and beautiful Khecheopalri Lake. It is believed that the birds here do not allow any leaves to fall on the lake. This trek shares the similar trek course to Chaurikhang the HMI Basecamp and Goechala Trek and starts at Yuksom. Listen to the chirping of the birds and spend some time staring at the small lakes while you head out on this trek. Head out for this amazing trek and also get a chance to explore the beautiful northeast. An augmentation of the Dzongri Trek, the Yuksom-Dzongri Trek brings the crude trekking adventure at its best beyond and past the glades where the trekkers can come close to nature.

Location - Old Manali

Start Point/End Point: Old Manali

Start Time/End Time: The trek start at 10:00 AM on day 1 and ends around 2:00 PM on day 4.

About Bhrigu Lake:

Bhrigu Lake is the high altitude glacial lake at the height of 14,100 ft. It is said that thousand year ago, Maharishi Bhrigu used to meditate near this pristine lake & hence it is named after him. The beauty of the lake is different in every season, In winters it is frozen, In the early summer you will find small glacial pieces floating in the lake and in summer & spring the lake becomes blue and keep on changing its color every hour of the day. 

About the Bhrigu Lake Trek:

The Bhrigu Lake trek is classified as a trek of moderate difficulty. You start from an altitude of 8,530 ft at Gulaba and you reach the highest point of the trek at 14,009 ft. On this trek you will get the unparalleled breathtaking views of Seven Sister Peaks, Deo Tibba, Indrasan, Hanuman Tibba, the outstretched Pir Panjal ranges, the rich line of oak and cedar forests, fascinating green lush meadows, enthralling carpeted alpine flooring and the gushing streams along the meandering trail, the scenic vistas of the region is absolutely captivating which also makes the trekking experience overwhelming.

Quick Facts About Bhrigu Lake Trek:

Trekking Distance: 26 km

Maximum Altitude:14,000 ft

Bhrigu Lake Trek Difficulty Level: Easy To Moderate 

Electricity: Electricity will be available in Manali campsite, However, there will be no electricity at the campsite on the trek.

ATM: Manali is the last point where you will get ATM.

Trekking Gradient: Steep ascent throughout the trail

Landmarks : Gulabha, Rola Kholi, Panduropa,Vashisht

How to reach?

You have to report at  Base camp, Old Manali which is the starting point of the trek. Many local transports and private cabs are available from Mall Road to reach Old Manali.