Trekking in Uttarakhand
When we speak of trekking through the best trails that nature offers, you cannot finish your plan without the mention of Uttarakhand. Trekking in Uttarakhand is an amazing experience and it has trails to meet the expectations of both the novice and the professional trekker. People from across the globe travel to Uttarakhand to indulge in a trek and explore some of the uncharted territories, untouched by pollution or population.
Kumaon and Garhwal in Uttarakhand boast of trekking routes categorized for different sections of trekkers, from easy to strenuous. Many new trekking routes like Chopta Tungnath and Kedarkantha have been included recently and have instantly hit the popularity chart for trekking in Uttarakhand.
Top spots for trekking in Uttarakhand
- Valley of Flowers
As you trek along this route, you will witness the exotic flora of the Himalayan region all around you. A bouquet of wild and exotic flowers greets you at every turn on this beautiful Trekking route in Uttarakhand. This trek winds through the River Pushpawati and you will also witness many other waterfalls, glaciers, and bridges on your way. You will witness lush green meadows with alpine flowers and other distinct flora all through your trek, keeping your wariness away.
- Kedarkantha Trek
This is amongst the most popular trekking routes in Uttarakhand currently. This trekking is relatively easy and is the best way to start your journey in trekking. With snow sparkling all around you in the winters, you will witness ample snowcapped peaks all through your way. Trekking in Uttarakhand is a mesmerizing adventure in itself and this trek tops the list for leaving you awe-inspired all way through.
In this trek, you can experience life in the remotest of villages during extreme cold climatic conditions. from magnificent meadows, and lush green landscapes to charming villages and snowy mountains, this trek will captivate you at every step. There are lakes, mountains, rivers, and everything you would sought out in such treks. This is the best trek to experience life in the Himalayas and immerse yourself in the scenic vistas all around.
- Kedartal
With waters that are crystal clear, Kedartal is a lake located at the base of Brigupanth peak and Thalay Sagar. The waters of this lake are so clear, that you can see the reflection of the mountains very clearly in it. The name of the lake translates literally to “Shiva’s lake” and is located at a higher altitude. This is a glacial lake at a height of 4912m above sea level and is formed by the melting of the Kedar Glacier. This is also the origin of the River Kedar Ganga, a tributary of River Bhagirathi
- Har ki Dun
This is the most beautiful destination for trekking in Uttarakhand and is a valley in the shape of a cradle located at a height of 3500m above sea level approximately. It is one of the places where you can get the most spectacular picture of the Garhwal Himalayas. You will find many trekking expeditions featuring Har Ki Dun as the destination for it is a dream destination for all trekkers. It is a place located in the middle of Govind Ballabh Pant National Park, rendering its visitors speechless with untouched beauty.
- Dayara Bugyal
If you are a novice trekker, then this trekking destination is the best place, to begin with. It is also the ideal place to trek over a long weekend where you can walk across dense forests, open land, and finally, end in a lush green meadow. Once you arrive here, you can enjoy a hot cup of tea that is infused with the flavors and aroma of this beautiful place, taking you into a serene mood.
Most of the time, the trekking begins at the Busra village and continues through Raithal to enjoy the scenic panoramic views of both routes of Dayara Bugyal. Winters see heavy snowfall in this region.
- Rudranath
One of the Panch Kedar, Rudranath is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the trekking in Uttarakhand to reach this temple is as scenic as you would hope for. You will be awestruck by the varying natural views with diverse landscapes as you trek along this path. The dense forest, wild grass meadows, and the towering Himalayan mountains make this a wild and heavenly place for a hamlet. It is a revered temple for Hindus and is nestled between the alpine meadows and the rhododendron forests. The snowy peaks of Nanda Ghunti, Nanda Devi, and Trishul add more mysticity to this beautiful temple.
- Deoria Tal
Also known as Devariya Tal, this is an emerald lake at a height of 2438m above sea level, offering breathless views of the surrounding regions. On a clear day, the tourists can view the reflections of Chaukhamba peaks in the waters of this lake. The water is so clear that the reflections look as good as the original. This is also the reason it is often called “the reflection lake”. It is an easy trek and can be undertaken by beginners as well. If interested, one can extend their trek beyond Devariya Tal to Tungnath, Chandrasila, Chopta, etc.
- Chopta
Often referred “the mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand”, this is your dream trekking in Uttarakhand to undertake. This picturesque place offers unmatched views of the towering Himalayan ranges with the perfect meadow to watch from. The wild scent of flowers, the sound of the birds chirping, chill breeze, take you to a different dimension altogether. It is especially a beautiful view when you witness the crimson rays of the morning sun grazing the snowy peaks and peeking through the tall trees. With deodars, pines, rhododendrons, and many other conifers bordering the forest region, this place is a beautiful abode for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Milam and Pindari Glaciers
If you want to check out glaciers then these are some accessible ones in the state of Uttarakhand. While Milam is one of the remotest glaciers, the Pindari glacier is the most easily accessible. It might take a week or more for you to reach these glaciers but if you love to trek and want to see some mesmerizing views, then these glaciers should be part of your list for trekking in Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand is a place known for heavenly hill stations and picturesque views. With a variety of flora and fauna to enjoy, trekking in Uttarakhand can be an exhilarating experience for anyone.