You’re looking for an adventure. Something to get your blood pumping and your heart racing. But you don’t want to go too far. You want to stay close to home, but still explore new places and see new things.
We’ve got just the place: Himachal Pradesh, a northern state in India teeming with adventure. With towering mountains, rushing rivers, and picturesque villages, Himachal Pradesh is the perfect place to explore on foot. Here are our picks for the best treks in Himachal Pradesh.
Tosh
If you’re looking for an adventure, look no further than the stunning state of Himachal Pradesh in India. Home to the Himalayas, this is a trekker’s paradise, with villages and trails to suit all experience levels.
One of the best places to start is the mountain village of Tosh. With its dramatic landscape and friendly locals, it’s easy to see why this place is a favorite with travelers. There are plenty of options for treks in the area, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Whatever your level of experience, there’s a trek in Tosh that’s perfect for you. So why not strap on your hiking boots and explore this beautiful corner of the world?
Instructions to reach
To reach the starting point of the trek, take a bus from Shimla to Naggar. The ride is picturesque, and will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. From Naggar, you will need to hire a taxi to Khoksar. The trek begins from Khoksar, and winds its way through several villages before reaching its endpoint in Malana.
Malana
Malana is one of the most beautiful villages in Himachal Pradesh, and it’s a popular destination for trekkers. Why? Because it’s a unique and unassuming village that’s tucked away in the mountains and offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life.
When you trek to Malana, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Himalayas, pristine glacial lakes and acres of terraced farmland. But the real draw is the village itself, which is home to some of the most hospitable people in India.
If you’re looking for an adventurous trek that will take you off the beaten path, Malana is a great choice.
The most effective method to reach
When it comes to finding your way to the villages in Himachal Pradesh, the most effective method is taking a four-wheel drive vehicle. Not only is this transportation option more reliable than public transport, but you’ll also be able to cover more ground and explore more areas. You might even get to see some wildlife!
The roads in the area can be rugged and tricky, so it’s best to hire an experienced driver if you’re not familiar with the terrain. Before you set off on your journey, research the roads, map out a route and make sure they will be open on the dates you plan to travel.
The choice is yours though—you can always trek it, too. Just make sure you’ve got the right gear and a reliable map before venturing out on foot. Also, keep in mind that some of the paths are quite strenuous so be sure to take breaks as often as needed. And remember—it doesn’t have to all be downhill. This kind of adventure is meant for taking your time and really enjoying every moment!
Kasol
Kasol is a small town tucked away in the Parvati Valley, and is often touted as the ‘Israel of India’ because of its large Hippie population. It boasts some spectacular treks that wind through dense forests and stunning mountain passes.
The most popular trek in Kasol is the Kheerganga Trek, which takes about three days to complete. It’s an easy to moderate trek with stunning views along the way, and starts in Kasol and passes through Manikaran, Tosh and Kalga before you reach Kheerganga.
Another great trek near Kasol is the Sar Pass Trek, which takes four-five days to complete. It starts at Barsheni near Bhuntar and takes you through Manikaran, Barshaini and Pulga before you finally reach Sar Pass. This trek provides breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows that will take your breath away!
Travel tip
A visit to Himachal Pradesh is not complete without trekking. And given the gorgeous terrain, India’s Northern state offers some of the most amazing experiences. One such trek route is The Great Himalayan Trail, which takes you through rugged mountain landscapes, tunnels and passes towards mountain villages far away from civilization.
The best way to explore the area is to rent a tent in Shimla or Manali and set off on your own. However, if you prefer it guided, there are plenty of trekking agencies that specialize in building custom packages for all kinds of travelers. Be sure to ask lots of questions before booking your tour as safety must always be your priority. For example, always check what security measures they have in place; such as group sizes and frequency of check-ins with their office.
At the end of a thrilling day out in nature, what better way to relax than by sipping some local chai tea or munching on some delicious hot snacks from a street side vendor? Also, be prepared to make some wonderful new friends during your journey – people who will share their stories and experiences with you until it’s time for you to move on!
Parvati Valley
Unbeknown to many, Parvati Valley is one of the most picturesque destinations in Himachal Pradesh. The beautiful valley lies in the Kullu district and is known for its emerald green hills, dense foliage and rivers.
Parvati Valley has some wonderful treks that wind along the banks of the Parvati River, taking visitors through small villages and ancient temples. It’s an amazing way to experience the culture, nature and hospitality of Himachal Pradesh.
For those looking for a longer trekking adventure, there are several more challenging ones that offer breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Keep your eyes peeled for a chance to spot rare wildlife such as the monal pheasant or the musk deer!
On top of all that, you can take part in activities like camping and river rafting, or simply indulge in home-cooked meals while enjoying the sights and sounds of this incredible valley.
Kheerganga
Kheerganga is an absolute must-do trek in Himachal Pradesh, as it’s breathtakingly beautiful. And what’s even better is that the trek itself isn’t particularly tough and can be done in a day!
The trek begins at the village of Barshaini, located near Manikaran in the Parvati Valley. The trail winds through dense forests of pine, and you’ll also pass alongside rocky gorges and waterfalls. At about 2400 meters, you reach the Kheerganga peak, where there’s a hot water spring and temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that’s said to be thousands of years old. On a clear day, you can even enjoy panoramic views of the mountains.
Overall, Kheerganga offers a unique experience for any traveler looking for an offbeat adventure. I’d recommend packing plenty of warm clothes as temperatures can drop significantly towards evening, but it’s definitely worth it for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Conclusion
So there you have it – some of the best treks that Himachal Pradesh has to offer! Whether you’re looking for a challenge or a more relaxed experience, there’s definitely something on this list for you.
