India is known for a great many things and amongst them all; its enchanting roads, fabulous natural landscapes and exotic views are reasons why many travelers visit this beautiful and eclectic country. Hiking trips in India are one of the oldest activities preferred by adventure enthusiasts from across the world. If scaling the world’s tallest peak, the Everest is an exciting challenge; there are many such peaks and trails that can be relished only during those hiking trips. An experienced hiker is likely to have good idea of the popular hiking trips in the country but there are some that are relatively unexplored and simply stupendous.
Here is a list of some of the best hiking trips in India ranked in no particular order.
1. Pindari Glacier Trek
Located in Kumaon, Pindari Glacier is a strikingly beautiful glacier panning 0.25 km in breadth and 3 km in length. The trek to the glacier is also called ‘soft adventure trek’ and takes between 11 and 13 days to complete. Best hiked between May and October; this trek is best avoided in the monsoons.
2. Roopkund Trek
Located in the Chamoli District of Garhwal, Roopkund is a very popular trek known for magnificent sights of the valleys and meadows. Untouched forests, enthralling campsites and beautiful fresh springs satiate the spirit of every trekker that hikes on this trail. The Roopkund Lake is also the ‘Mystery Lake’ since a number of horse and human skeletons belonging to the Paleolithic Age were discovered here.
3. Pin Parvathi Valley Trek
The Himalayan foothills have many stories to tell. The Pin Parvathi Valley Trek is home to wonderful slopes and high altitude deserts that narrate tales of explorers and the unexplored. Also called the “Valley of Gods”, the trek also winds through the cold desert Spiti region. There is a lot to see and experience during this trek including beautiful pine forests, striking barren lands and exotic flora.
4. Markha Valley Trek
The list of hiking trips in India is seldom complete without visiting Ladakh. Trekking along the Markha River that flows through Little Tibet has numerous experiences to offer the average trekker. Canyons, lovely villages, vast stretches of mustard fields and eclectic culture are sure to fill you up with memories forever. The unbelievable sights of the Himalayas and Karakoram mountain ranges can be witnessed during this trek. Markha Valley Trek is best done between June and October and is of moderate difficulty.