Himachal Pradesh is renowned for its pristine landscapes filled with snow clad peaks, Buddhist temples, thick forests and flowering meadows. However the true spirit of vacationing in Himachal Pradesh lies beyond admiring the flawless beauty of the scenic setting provided by nature to the tourist state. Himachal Pradesh has earned its fame for trekking and hiking activities which is the best way to experience the scenic splendor of the region. Owing its diverse terrain and the immense beauty of the Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is a popular destination for your next trek and have the feel of blood pumping through your veins as you behold the most spectacular view of the landscape. The best trekking tours of Himachal Pradesh offer the most challenging trails to test your limits and have a mini sojourn from the daily clamor of city life.
Blessed with the immaculate beauty in the lap of the Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh attracts many tourists promising an exhilarating trek that you will remember until you take your last breath. With the best panoramic views of the mountains, trekking in Himachal Pradesh offers something new and exceptional to every traveller. One of the best treks of Himachal Pradesh is Chanderkhani Pass trek.There are many other treks in the state that originate from Manali and Dharamsala. While the beginners can start with some short treks, there are many extensive treks too in Himachal Pradesh like the Pin Parvati pass trek with higher difficulty level for trekkers. However, the challenging slopes of Himachal Pradesh promises something unforgettable to every vacationer in search of an adventure. So take your adventurous folks along with you on the best trekking tours in Himachal Pradesh and witness the most majestic landscape with your own eyes. The captivating beauty of Himachal Pradesh could be best explored with only a trekking expedition while you beat the summer blues in the midst of tall snowy peaks.
Himachal Pradesh Top Attractions
Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh
Rohtang Pass is quite famous among Ladakh travelers but the unpredictable avalanche and severe climatic conditions make it scary some times. Nonetheless, it had made adventure seekers’ tour of Ladakh mind-blowing. A high mountain pass at an elevation of 3978 meters above the sea level, Rohtang is just 51 km from Manali. It is a part of the proud Pir Panjal Range of the mighty Himalayas and it is one of the Kullu famous places.It acts as the connecting link between Kullu Valley and Lahaul and Spiti Valley. Being an ancient trade route, it was well maintained by the natives. The generic name of the pass suggests that either the pass was the oldest and the most used pass. With the increase of visitors every year, the fragile mountain ecology will be in threat, environmentalists worry.But the exciting beauty of the mountain terrains seen from the top of the pass is indescribable and flamboyant. The Indian Government started building a tunnel which is 8.5 km long to bypass Rohtang pass in order to reduce the travel time and distance to Keylong, Lahaul and Spiti and Leh. The tunnel promises to reduce the distance by 50 km and the time by five hours between the south and north faces of Rohtang pass. Currently, the time taken to ascend and descend the pass itself is 5-6 hours.Height: Rohtang Pass is located at an altitude of 3978 meters above the sea level in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas.Location: The pass is located about 51 kms away from Manali and you can reach the pass if you take Leh- Manali Highway.Best time to visit: The pass will be open from the months of May to October as the snow starts melting and the paths will be cleared.
Apart from Khardung La or Baralacha La, Ladakh has numerous other passes at great heights which stand as Ladakh’s pride for centuries now. The glitters of other passes may be diminished by Khardung La mainly but all the other passes are equally important. Lachulung La is a single example. The elevation of this pass is 5059 meters above sea level which is considered to be a dangerously exciting height for any pass after Khardung La. Lachulung La is on the border of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. Also, it separates the valleys of Tsarap Chu and Tozay. If you take Leh-Manali highway, you will be able to cross this pass that has other names such as Lachalung La, Lungalacha La etc. A fact that to be remembered before you head to visit this pass is, it is open only for four and a half months during summer. Any traveler should be prepared not to fall sick during the conquering of Lachulung La because its geographic status, the height, the rugged pathways and the remote villages it goes through may cause dramatic influence on your body. Being one of the most adventurous passes in Ladakh, Lachulung is a favorite stop avid adventure lovers. Also, the surroundings are quite fictional as the towering Himalayan passes and the nature lying in correspondence to them are creating soothing visuals. Trekkers should be very careful while climbing the altitude up as altitude sickness is assured at the top and keep hydrated to maintain your body conditions with respect to the climate. But the descent is smooth and easy so that you will feel overjoyed till the end.Height: 5059 metersBest time to visit: May to OctoberHow to reach: Take Leh-Manali highway, from Sarchu 54 KM and from Pang, 24 Km
As important as the other major passes in Jammu and Kashmir, Nakee La situated at an elevation of 4769 meters above the sea level is a potent competition to Khardung La and similar ones in terms of adventure. On the Leh-Manali Highway, from Manali to Taglang La is Nakee La and it is the third pass among the five passes that to be crossed during the travel from Manali to Leh. The previous travelers shared the experience of driving down the pass was quite dramatic; the expert drivers also find it challenging to steer past the uneven, rugged and off-road paths. But the traversing time would be filled with excitement and thrill if you really love adventure at its level best.The frequent sections of ice are another impediment during the journey as well as an avalanche, heavy snowfalls etc can be expected anytime making the process of crossing the pass difficult. The climate is very dry over here and the harsh cold conditions make the pass a challenge to overcome for many. 21 Gata loops is a repeatedly heard word during the tour of Leh and the ascent to Nakee La is known in the special name. One have to overcome the 23 km ascent that starts from 4250 meters to 4980 meters conquering the 21 tricky hairpin bends. There is also a rumor you can hear about the pass is that the pass is haunted by a ghost of a tourist who was buried here.Height: Nakee La is located at an elevation of 4769 meters above the sea level.Location: Nakee La is located on the famous Leh-Manali National Highway. While you travel from Manali to Leh, you would come across Nakee La.Best time to go: The summer is the best time to visit Nakee La since during winter there would be heavy snowfall and landslide.
Popular Trekking Destinations
Himachal Pradesh Travel Guides
People Also Ask About Trekking in Himachal Pradesh
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When is the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh for trekking?
The best time to plan a visit to Himachal Pradesh would be in summers, in the months from March to June as you will experience pleasant weather.
It is a great time to trek as there is no much snowfall and a lot of travellers visit Himachal during this time.
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How can I reach Himachal?
Situated in North India, Himachal is a famous tourist destination and there are a number of ways to reach here:
- By Air: You can reach Himachal by air, the nearest three domestic airports are Bhuntar, Gaggal and Jabbarhatti.
- By roads: Himachal is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh and Kashmir. Also, the bus facilities in the state are well organised.
- By Train: While there are no direct train routes within the whole state, it is advisable to reach Kalka railway station which is 90 km from Shimla. You can ride by road from here. Also, you can take the famous Toy Train ride from here.
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Is it safe to trek in Himachal Pradesh?
Yes, Himachal Pradesh is quite safe, especially Malana Trek which is considered a safe trek and you can trek along with locals or fellow travellers who constantly visit this village.
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Which are some of the highest peaks for trekking in Himachal Pradesh?
Some of the highest peaks for trekking in Himachal Pradesh include:
- Pin Parvati Trek
- Hampta trek
- Kheerganga Trek
- Beas Kund trek
- Chandra Tal Trek
- Chandrakhani Trek
- Chamba trail
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Can I do Beas Kund Trek? What sort of a trek is it?
Yes, Beas Kund Trek can be easily done as it is a moderate level trek. It is an astounding short trek, where you can witness iced mountains and para gliders floating midair.
The track goes through Dhundi and Bakar Thach and enters Beas Kund glacier, from where the river Beas originates.
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What sort of trek is Hampta Pass Trek? How much will it cost me?
Hampta Pass Trek is a moderately difficult trek to hike and you don’t require much physical strength to climb this. The base camp of Hampta pass is Manali; get enthralled by rivers and picturesque landscape on your way up this trek.
Also, Hampta Pass trek packages will cost you from 8500 INR onwards, so it is great for your soul and pocket.
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Can I do the Tosh Valley Trek? What is the difficulty level?
Yes, Tosh Valley trek is a way to discover the beauty of nature and you can choose your way to climb up the Glacier.
You can pursue the tracks that lead to the challenging Animal Pass or choose the steady easy climb to the Tosh Glacier.
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What is special about Spiti Valley Trek? Is it a difficult trekking option?
Trekking in spiti one daunting expedition you must go on. Get enticed by the unworldly experience and serene scenic views of Himachal Pradesh.
This is situated at a height of about 4000 metres, lying between Tibet and India.
Spiti Valley trek is taken as one of the challenging treks in Himachal Pradesh, with confounding trails and moonscapes.
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What is Bhrigu Lake Trek? Is it worth doing it?
Bhrigu lake trek is an amazing trek to Bhrigu Lake which is situated at a height of 4300 metres and could be initiated from Vashishth temple, which is near Manali. It is almost a 2 days hike and is famous for its natural hot springs.
It is worth experiencing standing near the lake, marvelling the oval-shaped water body and enjoying the tranquillity near the lake.
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How difficult is Chanderkhani Pass Trek? How many days are required to complete it?
Chanderkhani Pass Trek is quite a moderate to easy level trek, perfect for a new bee. It is a 20 km long hike, with an elevation of 3670 metres and it will take 2 to 3 days to complete it.
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What sort of Trek is Kanamo Peak Trek?
Kanamo Peak trek is a 6000 m hike in the fabulous peaks of Himalayas. It is essentially a 5 day trek to Kanamo Peak, although, Chandratal trekking can be included to increase the travel time and fun.
Kibber is the default base camp, however you can start your trek from Batal to reach Kanamo summit.
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Is it worth doing the Triund Trek? What sort of a trek is it?
Triund trek is one of the most wondrous treks in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the jewels of Dharamshala valley and is quite popular among tourists.
This trek is suitable for all age groups, considerably easy in the beginning, but tourists face difficulty during the end of the trek as it has 22 curves in the last kilometre.
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Can I do the Kareri Lake Trek? When should I do it?
Yes, one can enjoy trekking to this beautiful high altitude, fresh water Kareri Lake which is 2934 metres above the sea level.
The best time to plan a trekking expedition in Kareri Lake is May and June or September and October.
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What is special about Kheerganga Trek? When is the best time to do it?
Kheerganga is a special trek location where the trail ascends through thick pine forests to the Kheer Ganga Village. It is ringed by the Himalayan massifs and streaming rivers.
You can witness scenes of nature and enjoy a bath in natural hot springs. Also, there’s a Shiva temple situated on the peak of the hike. Best time to plan a hike is from July to October.
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What is the Bhubhu Pass Trek like?
Bhubhu trek in Himachal Pradesh is a trail connecting Kullu (Lagh valley) to Mandi (Chuhar Valley). It is an ancient trail, not very high and therefore is an easy hiking path.
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Can I do Prashar Lake Trek? What is special about it?
Yes, Prashar Lake trek is a beautiful hiking location in Himachal Pradesh. It is frozen in winters. Encounter the stunning views of Dhauladhar, Kinnaur and PirPanjal mountain ranges. Other than this, it is known for the famous 13th century pagoda temple located near the lake.
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Will we stay in camps during trekking in Himachal?
You will find unique locations for your stay while trekking in Himachal Pradesh. Yes, you will also be staying camps during your trek, at various sites like Manali, Kheer Ganga etc.
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What sort of tents will be there to stay at night?
Tents will be spacious enough to accommodate up to 3 people. The tents will be waterproof, lightweight and equipped with comfortable sleeping mats or beds, compost toilets and hand basins.
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What all things must I carry while going for trekking in Himachal?
You must be really well equipped with all your essentials while going for trekking. The things that you must carry along include a water bottle, a cap, scissors, comfortable footwear, sunscreen, socks, snacks, sunglasses, first aid kit, and a camera for sure.
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Is it safe for a solo female to trek in Himachal?
As for girls, trekking is extremely safe. The vendors have highest regards for women safety and will ensure that they're safe during the entire trek. If there is only one girl in the trip, then she will be provided with a single tent to sleep alone.
If there are more girls, then they can sleep under one tent. Always make sure that you are never left on your own. Understand your pace and be with the group.
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What kind of sleeping bags will there be during the trek in Himachal Pradesh?
You will be provided with proper and comfortable sleeping mats. These will be long foamed mats on which a person can sleep with ease.
Moreover, if you are already familiar with heat and insulation, these mats will help insulate your body from the cold ground. Further, you can carry your own sleeping bag during the trek.
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What are the different things apart from trekking which can be done in Himachal?
- You can enjoy more than just trekking in Himachal Pradesh.
- Fly in the vast skies in Bilaspur
- Take an enchanting ride on the toy train
- Visit the holy temples
- Camp under starry skies
- Go skiing in some of the fascinating ice peaks
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Which places are famous for other adventure activities in Himachal?
Himachal Pradesh is a paradise for scenic views of nature as well as packed with adventure to satisfy your desire.
- River rafting in the Beas river and Satluj river
- Climb to the Triund Hill
- Camp in the open lands of Sarchu and Kalpa
- Get blessings at Hadimba Devi Temple
- Mountain biking in Manali- Leh - Shimla.