Toughest treks in Himachal
Triund Trek
With sweeping views of the Kangra Valley on one side and the magnificent Dhauladhar range on the other, this is undoubtedly one of Himachal Pradesh’s most breathtaking hikes. The journey can start at Dharamkot or McLeodGanj and take you via the gorgeous Bhagsu Nag and on to the Khabrotu, where you can see the Lake Glacier and the snow-capped Dhauladhar mountain. The hike concludes in Bhagsu Village.
Along the route, you’ll be met with spectacular vistas of snow-capped mountain peaks and the unspoiled beauty of rhododendron, deodar, and oak woods, depending on which base camp you pick. With sweeping views of the Kangra Valley on one side and the magnificent Dhauladhar range on the other, this is undoubtedly one of Himachal Pradesh’s most breathtaking hikes. The journey can start at Dharamkot or McLeodGanj and take you via the gorgeous Bhagsu Nag and on to the Khabrotu, where you can see the Lake Glacier and the snow-capped Dhauladhar mountain. The hike concludes in Bhagsu Village.
Along the route, you’ll be met with spectacular vistas of snow-capped mountain peaks and the unspoiled beauty of rhododendron, deodar, and oak woods, depending on which base camp you pick.
Pin Parvati Pass
The Pin Parvati Pass climb, which begins at a dizzying elevation of 5,320.8 meters, is one of Himachal’s most difficult, although it is made easier by a profusion of breathtaking panoramas along the route. The Pin Valley in Spiti and the Parvati Valley in Kullu are linked by this walk. Travelers will walk through difficult mountains, lush woods, breathtaking waterfalls, and glaciers throughout the 12- to 15-day trip. A rocky trip from Manali to the base camp (Spiti River in Kaza) is required.
Because you will be walking across several high mountain ranges, you should remain in Kaza for a day of acclimatization. The path passes via Mudh hamlet, Pin Valley National Park, where you may see ibex and snow leopards, Mantalai marshlands, Odi Thatch grasslands, Tundra Bhuj pulley bridge, and Kheerganga hot water springs, which are claimed to have medical value. The hot water springs provide much-needed relaxation after a strenuous Himalayan journey. This walk is only suggested for experienced hikers! At several spots along the road, travelers can set up camp.
Best time: July- September
Hampta Pass Trek
The Hampta Pass trip is known for its abundant natural beauty and distant culture. Along this six-day walk, you’ll pass through beautiful Kullu valleys, craggy Lahaul mountains, wildflower fields of Jwara, the sand ground of Balu Ka Ghera, and the lush Shea Goru valley, finally reaching a height of 4,277.8 meters. To get to Jobra, the trailhead, you must drive from Manali or Prini, and the route has 42 hairpin curves. The breathtaking views of the Kullu Valley along the way make the journey worthwhile. The walk culminates in Chhatru, and there are several camping areas along the way where you may pitch a tent. This hike is suitable for both novices and those in good physical condition.
Shepherd Trail Gaddi Trek
Nature lovers, wildlife aficionados, and experienced hikers will enjoy this path. The trail starts in Kullu Valley (Manali) and ends in Kangra Valley (Dharamshala). Along the journey, you’ll pass through shepherd hamlets, cow ranches, lush woods, and a glacial lake, as well as the three high-altitude snow-capped peaks of Kalihani (4,785.3 meters), Thamsar (3,500 meters), and Khanpari (3,600 meters). Along the road, there are several fruit orchards and wild animals. This journey takes around 18 days to complete and is exceedingly difficult, requiring a high level of fitness. The continual fluctuation in altitude will fatigue you, but the stunning views of the Western Himalayas, verdant valleys, and waterfalls will make up for it.
Beas Kund Trek
This hike begins in Old Manali and takes you via the historic towns of Burua and Shang, which are cut off from the rest of the world. The trail then ascends through the lush green meadows of Solang Valley, Dundi, and Bakartach to the Beas Kund, a small alpine lake with turquoise water. The journey is quite straightforward, therefore it can be completed by both rookie and experienced trekkers. It takes around two days to complete, and hikers can spend the night at Solang Valley in a tent.
Mid-May through October is the best time to visit.
Sar Pass Trek
The Sar Pass is located in the scenic Parvati Valley at a height of 4,220 meters. It’s a popular hike because of the breathtaking landscape that varies every few kilometers. The journey starts in Kasol, a backpacker’s paradise, and continues through the villages of Grahan, Padri, Min Thatch, Nagaru, and Barshai. This hike is quite challenging and demands some physical fitness. It will take you roughly five days to finish.
