India is a vast country with varied topography and is home to many exciting places to explore. There are several gorgeous hiking trails in India. If you want to experience the beauty of nature and enjoy the outdoors, set out on an exciting journey to explore these eight hiking trails.
India offers ample opportunities for adventurous travellers and explorers to satisfy their adrenaline rush. The vast terrain boasts a hiking odyssey just as unique as the country's diverse cultural fabric, which holds the nation together.
Here, you can hike through the lofty peaks of the Himalayas in the north and explore the lush green, forest-cloaked mountain ranges of the Western Ghats. So skip the same old famous hiking trail of Manali and choose these six destinations to enjoy a casual and quick hike or a multi-day excursion.
Located in the Himalayan section, on the Dhauladhar range—the trekking expedition begins from the Galu temple in Dharamsala. The expedition will allow you to experience the beauty of the snow-clad Pir Panjal Mountains.
It is essential to note that the hiking on this trail is moderately difficult. During your journey, you will pass through lush pastures and Rhododendron and Deodar jungles. Hiking through the Grand Indrahar Pass will delight you, and the perfect time to hike this trail is between May and October.
The hiking trail stretches 9 kilometres and you need one day to complete the journey. Passing through the borders of Nagaland and Manipur, Dzükou Valley is a vast lush green carpet that grows vibrant wildflowers annually—some rare blooms include the pink Dzukou Lily.
The valley looks gorgeous throughout the summer.
Two routes exist—most hikers begin the hike from Viswema Village, while others trailhead at Zakhama Village. The latter route is shorter. However, the ascent is steeper.
If you have always dreamed of climbing a peak and hoisting a flag in India, opt for this easier option—the Seven Sisters trail in Himachal Pradesh. You can locate these peaks in the Western Himalayas. This hiking trail will take you across apple orchards and the climatic conditions in the mountains are pleasant, making it one of the best and most scenic hiking destinations for novice hikers in India.
If you are eager to explore some hiking trails in the southern states of India, look no further than Araku Valley. This frequently visited trekking destination in the Eastern Ghats boasts spectacular landscapes and lush coffee and tea plantations. Trek across the Chittagong meadows for about 9 km and climb an altitude of 4,500 feet. You will come across the picturesque Chaparai Waterfalls during the expedition—surrounded by forests.
There are other exciting nearby destinations you can explore while hiking—such as Ananthagiri Hills and Borra Caves. The perfect time to hike this trail is between December and February—to indulge in the serenity of the winter air. It takes about 7 to 8 hours to complete this hike.
If you prefer hiking in fair weather conditions only—set out on this trail that will take you across the Har Ki Doon Valley. You will trek across a steady gradient, which is easier to hike as compared to other Himalayan trails that require navigation from one valley to another.
You have to traverse through the Garhwal Himalayas and can witness numerous snow-capped mountain peaks. The hiking trail runs through quaint scenic villages like Seema, Gangaad, and Osla.
If you want to set out on a challenging hike, which offers a stunning view, add the Goechala trek to your adventure bucket list. The hike involves climbing steep ascents (elevation of 10,000 ft) and crossing three suspension bridges built over stunning gorges.
Memories from this hike will etch in your mind especially because of the mesmerising view of the Kangchenjunga, from Dzongri Top at a height of 13,670 feet. The hike begins and ends in Yuksom Village, and the trail should ideally be hiked clockwise to get accustomed to the challenging ascents.
Explore these dreamy destinations and create some exciting memories on the trail.
