14 Best Treks in Himachal Pradesh, India

Himachal Pradesh is a popular tourist destination in northern India’s Himalayan region. It has beautiful mountain peaks, meadows, and resorts, as well as evident Buddhist temples and monasteries. Himachal Pradesh is a heaven for thrill seekers, with over 80 snow capped peaks such as Friendship Peak, Manirang, Parvati Parvat, Gushu, Thamsar, and many more. Sacred sites with local legends, camping near the river or over lush green meadows under a star-studded sky are just a few of the basic additions to an already existing trekker’s paradise.

Owing to its ease of access, Himachal Pradesh attracts a large number of mountaineers from all over the country and around the globe. Himachal’s easy-level treks, such as the Kheerganga, Triund and Beas Kund treks, are some of the popular starting points for many mountaineering beginners. Tourists typically transform into avid trekkers on these treks, wanting to experience their love for mountains now in a much broader sense. The famous sunrise of the tourist-friendly Triund Trek will undoubtedly entice visitors to return.

A naturalist’s paradise, the Himalayas in Himachal offer a diverse range of landscapes, vegetation, forest, alpine lakes, and meadows. The Dayara meadows, arguably one of the best in the country, take trekkers with surprise on the trails of Buran Ghati trek and Chandranahan Lake Trek. Sudden outburst of meadows encapsulating many small shepherd’s trails, galloping horses, and lush green color on the sidelines of hills after a long trail amidst dense forest is an unexpected visual treat. Typically, superficial trekkers are encouraged to traverse these paths and be better self-judges of what lies ahead of them.

Experience the best of both worlds from the treks of Hampta Pass, Bhaba Pass and Pin Parvati Pass. The trails of these treks provide a spectacular transition from lush green meadows on one side to the dry and barren lands of the Spiti Valley on the other. Some of the main highlights of treks passing through the Spiti Valley are not only the contrasting landscapes but also the differences in living cultures that trekker’s get to experience. From trailing among wheat and pea plantations to stacking architecture of monasteries, the Spiti Valley displays a remarkable potential in offering great experience to its explorers.

Trekking through the Himalayan Mountains is a one-of-a-kind spiritual journey, detailed with breathtaking vistas and gleaming golden peaks at sunrise and sunset. It is an inner-outer body experience in and of itself. Himachal offers a diverse range of treks and welcomes trekkers of all levels to visit its sites and rejuvenate in the warmth.

Hampta Pass Trek

The Hampta Pass Trek located at an elevation of 4270 metres on the Pir Panjal range, is a narrow corridor that connects Lahaul’s Chandra Valley to Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu Valley. The trek’s name was derived from Hamta Village, which is located below Sethan Village and is part of the trek route. The trek is well-known for its unpredictable and ever-changing terrain.

Perched at an altitude and surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, the trail begins in the greenery of Jobra, passes through alpine forest, wide meadows with the occasional sight of beautiful flora, and finally ends in the arid desert areas of Spiti Valley.

The trail’s highlights include vertical rock walls, waterfalls, hanging glaciers, and peaks rising above 5500 m. Wildflowers and herbs growing at elevations ranging from 2900 to 3500 metres, as well as pinewoods, rhododendron forests, and wide open meadows, provide a visual treat for all nature lovers. This is an intermediate level trek that covers all of the wildest fantasies of trekkers, so climbers of all levels can visit and explore the beauty of this trek.

• Key points-Hampta Pass Trek
• Duration: 4 nights 5 days 
• Altitude: 4310m.
• Trek distance: on foot 29km- by taxi 236 km
• Temperature: Monsoon Temperature: – Day (5°C to 12° C) Night (2°C to 8°C)
• Best time to visit: June, July, August, September
• Trek level: Difficult
• Trek route day by day: Manali, Jobra, Cheeka camp, Balu ka Gera, Shea Gour Camp, Chandratal, Chatru Camp
• Weather: Winters are covered with snow summits and peaks whereas summers experience higher temperatures

Bhrigu Lake Trek

Bhrigu Lake or Bhrigu Lake with an elevation of 4300m is located to the east of Rohtang Pass and is surrounded by Pir Panjal Ranges in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh, India. Named after Maharishi Bhrigu, this sight holds a sacred place among the locals. According to a local legend, the great sage Bhrigu used to meditate near the lake and rendered the lake never freezes completely.

The lake is about 6 kilometers from Gulaba’s no-settlement village and can be reached by trekking from Jonker Bugyal and Rola Kholi. The scenic backdrop of Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar follows you along the trail of grassy meadows. The contrast between the textures and colours of the grasslands and the snow capped peaks dominating the skyline is a truly memorable sight.

Despite being a short moderate-level trek, it climbs to a daunting altitude of 14,000 feet. It’s an excellent trek for beginners or families looking to explore the wilderness owing to its easy access from Manali and an achievable goal.

• Key points- Bhrigu Lake Trek
• Duration: 3 nights 4 days 
• Altitude: 4300m.
• Trek distance: on foot 29km- by taxi 236 km
• Temperature: Monsoon Temperature: – Day (5°C to 12° C) Night (-2°C to 5°C)
• Best time to visit: May, June, September, October
• Trek level: Moderate
• Trek route day by day: Manali, Jonker Bugyal, Rola Khuli, Bhrigu Lake,
• Weather: Winters are covered with snow summits and peaks whereas summers experience higher temperatures

Kheerganga Trek

Kheerganga Trek (Khir Ganga) is one of Himachal Pradesh’s most well-known trekking destinations. It is said to have been Lord Shiva’s abode for thousands of years. Kheerganga, located deep in the Parvati Valley at a height of about 2950 m, provides trekkers with a fortune of treasured memories. The location is well-known for its hot water springs and a breathtaking view of the valley, which draws visitors from all over the country to Himachal Pradesh.

The Kheerganga trek starts in Kasol, a well-known tourist destination in the Pin Parvati valley. Trekkers will be able to explore nature at its best, with views of lofty peaks looming in the background. The trail takes individuals through the picturesque villages of Nakhtan and Rudra Nag, which are also the ideal resting and discovering spots. Trekkers can learn about the local people and culture of Himachal Pradesh through these stopping points. As soon as trekkers arrive in Kheerganga, they can go straight to the Parvati Kund, or natural hot water springs, which are particularly appealing in the winter. Owing to its easy trekking level, this trek is a popular and ideal choice for many families and individuals.

• Key points- Kheerganga Trek
• Duration: 1 nights 2 days
• Altitude: 3500m.
• Trek distance: 12km
• Temperature: Monsoon Temperature: – Day (5°C to 12° C) Night (-2°C to 5°C)
• Best time to visit: All Year
• Trek level: Easy
• Trek route day by day: Kasol, Barshaini, Rudra Nag Kheerganga
• Weather: Winters are covered with snow summits and peaks whereas summers experience higher temperatures

Deo Tibba Trek

Deo Tibba is a mountain in the Pir Panjal Range of Himalayan Mountains in Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh, India. At a height of 6,001 metres, it is a popular trekking destination among enthusiastic trekkers. The peak is distinctive in how the summit is a snow dome, similar to an ice cap, with a flat summit plateau rather than a pointed ridge. Per the local legend, Deo Tibba is a gathering place for the gods. According to Hindu mythology, the dome-shaped peak of Deo Tibba is where the gods sit, hence the names Deo (Gods) and Tibba (Hill).

The trek is a moderate to difficult level trek that aims to check off many experienced hikers’ “To Do” list. Climbers will face difficult terrain on their way to the summit of this peak, including steep ice passes, glaciers with crevasses, a rock fall area, and a ridge. Trekkers will pass through many remote valleys and villages on their way to Deo Tibba Base Camp, including Jogidugh, Panduropa, Setan, and Hampta Pass, just to name a few. The trek also takes the expeditioners to the grazing pastures of the Gaddi shepherds, where they can enjoy breathtaking views of Deo Tibba peak.

• Key points- Deo Tibba Trek
• Duration: 6 nights 7 days 
• Altitude: 4171m.
• Trek distance: on foot 30km- by taxi 24 km
• Temperature: Summer Temperature: – Day (13°C to 18° C) Night (0°C to 7°C)
• Best time to visit: May, June, September, October
• Trek level: Moderate
• Trek route day by day: Manali, Bara Bazar, Chikka, Seri, Deo Tibba Base Camp, Chota Chandratal 
• Weather: Winters are covered with snow summits and peaks whereas summers experience higher temperatures

Sar Pass Trek 

The Sar Pass, at an elevation of 4,220 metres, is a popular trekking route in the Parvati Valley of the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Sar means a lake in the local dialect, and while trekking from Tila Lotni to Biskeri Ridge, one must pass by a small, usually frozen lake (sar), hence the name Sar Pass Trek. Because of its ease of difficulty, this trek is ideal for first-time trekkers. It’s a classic choice for those who want to explore a variety of terrain all in one trek. This trail provides trekkers with a range of experiences, including forests, meadows, quaint villages, and snow-covered mountains.

The base camp for this trek is Kasol, which is located near the Parvati river’s banks in the Parvati valley. The trek begins in dense forests and progresses to a total snow-covered setting. The trail loops through pining forests, charming old-world villages, majestic snow-capped mountains, and some of the most breathtaking scenery. During the trek, hikers pass through several small meadows, most of which are grazed by villagers with their livestock.

• Key points- Sar Pass Trek
• Duration: 4 nights 5 days 
• Altitude: 4200m.
• Trek distance: on foot 48km- by taxi 74 km
• Temperature: Summer Temperature: – Day (13°C to 17° C) Night (0°C to 7°C)
• Best time to visit: May, June, September, and October
• Trek level: Moderate
• Trek route day by day: Kasol, Grahan village, Mung Thtch, Naguru, Sar Pass, Biskeri Thatch, Barsheini                                                                                                                                                                                       
• Weather: Winters are covered with snow summits and peaks whereas summers experience higher temperatures,

Buran Ghati trek

Buran Ghati is a diverse trek and thrilling pass located in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, India, at a high altitude of 15,000 feet. The Buran Ghati Pass trek provides a breathtaking view of changing landscapes, diverse vegetation, stunning mountain views, verdant forests, and quaint idyllic villages like Janglik and Barua.

This amazing trek begins in the old-fashioned village of Janglik. Because of how much it has to offer, it is an ideal stopover for hikers. Wooden houses, traditional living, small cafes, and local delicacies await you in Janglik. The trail then climbs further out of Janglik and enters a delightfully deep forest before opening into Dayara meadows. One of the most memorable highlights of this trek is the steep climb of the Buran Ghati wall, followed by a sliding fall on the other side.

Buran Ghati can provide a picture-perfect visual treat to its explorers with its ever-changing landscape of dense forest to meadows and occasional snow walks with steep climbs and riverside camping. This easy to moderate level trek is a fine summer delight for trekkers of all levels.

• Key points- Buran Ghati Trek
• Duration: 6 nights 7 days 
• Altitude: 4572m.
• Trek distance: on foot 29km- by taxi 375 km
• Temperature: Summer Temperature: – Day (5°C to 10° C) Night (-2°C to 6°C)
• Best time to visit: May, June, September, and October
• Trek level: Moderate
• Trek route day by day: Shimala, Rohru, Janglik, Dayara thach, Litham, Chandranahan lake, Dhunda camp, Buran Ghati pass, River Camp, Barua Road head
• Weather: Winters are covered with snow summits and peaks whereas summers experience higher temperatures

Bhaba Pass Trek

Bhaba Pass, also known as Bhawa Pass, is a high mountain pass in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh with an elevation of 4,890 metres. Bhaba Pass connects the green and fertile Bhaba valley on the Kinnaur side with the barren high-altitude Pin valley on the Spiti side. The Pin Bhaba Pass Trek is the passage between two distinct worlds that introduces the trekkers to two distinct Himalayan cultures as you traverse from one side of the mountain to the other.

The Pin Bhaba trail begins in the charming little Himalayan village of Kafnu in Kinnaur Valley and extends down to Mudh in Spiti. This route from Kinnaur through dense forests and old trails to the vast, arid lands of Spiti is a visual cautionary tale about the peaceful coexistence of extremes. The reward for reaching the highest point of the journey is a view that combines the best of both worlds. The vibrant greens on one side contrast with the barren grey on the other, creating one-of-a-kind experience. This moderate to difficult trek offers trekkers a range of experiences.

• Key points- Bhaba Pass Trek
• Duration: 7 nights 8 days 
• Altitude: 4909m.
• Trek distance: on foot 60km- by taxi 409 km
• Temperature: Summer Temperature: – Day (13°C to 18° C) Night (0°C to 7°C)
• Best time to visit: May, June, September, and October
• Trek level: Moderate to Difficult
• Trek route day by day: Shimla, Kafnu, Mulling, Karah, Phutsirang, Mangrungse, Mudh, Manali
• Weather: Winters are covered with snow summits and peaks whereas summers experience higher temperatures

Kanamo Peak Trek

Kanamo Peak, at 19,600 feet, is one of the highest trekkable peaks in the Himalayan region of Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti Valley. The Kanamo Peak towers behind the villages of Kibber and Tashi Gang, deep in the heart of Spiti. Coming after the peak of Stok Kangri in Ladakh, Kanmo Peak is one of the lesser-known thrill fest for trekkers. The entire trek provides comparable experience of high-altitude Mountains while requiring fewer mountaineering skills.

The trail begins in the small village of Kibber and winds through wheat and pea plantations in the mountains of the Spiti Valley. The track is traversable until you reach Kanamo Base Camp, after which it’s a never-ending ascent over scree and boulder moraine to the summit. Upon reaching the summit, trekkers will be able to dwell over a panoramic view of 35 other summits in Ladakh, Spiti, Kullu, and Kinnaur. Shilla Peak, Kanamo’s sister peak with equally enthralling beauty, will also be on display with intimidating proximity.

This is a difficult to challenging level trail, with dares looming right from the start. High order of physical fitness will be necessary for its need for acclimatization. 

• Key points- Kanamo Peak Trek
• Duration: 6 nights 7 days 
• Altitude: 5964m.
• Trek distance: on foot 27km- by taxi 215 km
• Temperature: Summer Temperature: – Day (7°C to 13° C) Night (0°C to 4°C)
• Best time to visit: July, September
• Trek level: Difficult to challenging
• Trek route day by day: Manali, Kibber, Kanamo Base camp, Kanamo Peak Summit
• Weather: Winters are covered with snow summits and peaks whereas summers experience higher temperatures

Triund Trek

Triund is a small hill station located in the Kangra district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Triund is a part of Dharamkot and is located at the foot of the Dhauladhar ranges at a height of 2828m. This is an easy and ideal destination for trekkers looking for a short but moderately difficult trek with spectacular vistas and a rewarding end result.

The journey to Triund is short but arduous. Right from the start of the trek, you can see the Moon peak, Rifle Horn, Arthur’s Seat, and the mighty Dhauladhar range.  The forest section of this trek is small but refreshing with oak and rhododendron forest, this lovely forest segment is quite memorable for trekkers. 

The sunset is perhaps the most spectacular aspect of the Triund Trek, and it is the main draw for all nature paparazzi. It is a very picturesque and rewarding trek with breathtaking views of the Kangra valley and the snow-covered Dhauladhar ranges. Because of its easy difficulty, this trek appeals to nature lovers and trekkers of all levels.

• Key points- Triund Trek
• Duration: 1 nights 2 days 
• Altitude: 2875m.
• Trek distance:
• Temperature: Summer temperature – (20°C to 30°C)                                                                                                                                       
• Winter temperature – (5°C to 12°C)
• Best time to visit: All year
• Trek level: Easy
• Trek route day by day: Mcleodganj, Triund
• Weather: Winters are covered with snow summits and peaks whereas summers experience higher temperatures

Beas Kund Trek

Beas Kund is an emerald blue lake and the source of the River Beas located at an elevation of 3700 m amidst towering mountains in the Solang valley. The trail lets trekkers embark on a memorable journey through the grasslands and tall mountains that lie perfectly in nature’s canvas.

Solang Nallah, also known as the adventurer’s paradise, serves as the starting point for this trek with its picture-perfect green meadows. Trekkers continue their journey near the shepherds trails, marvelling at the sight of locals and cattle. This trek’s highlights include wild flora and fauna, gushing streams, and camping under the star-studded sky. Upon reaching the end, the contrasting display of a wide lake among the green glasslands with a daunting image of summits like Friendship Peak, Shitidhar, Ladakhi, and Hanuman Tibba in the surroundings captures trekkers’ attention.

This ideal short summer trek, ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate, is an excellent way to learn about native culture, adventure sports, and local legends.

• Key points- Beas Kund Trek
• Duration: 3 nights 4 days 
• Altitude: 3700m.
• Trek distance:
• Temperature: Summer temperature – (10°C to 25°C)                     
• Best time to visit: Mid May to Mid Oct
• Trek level: Easy to Moderate
• Trek route day by day: Manali, Solang Valley, Dhundi, Lohali, Beas Kund
• Weather: Nights are colder and compared to pleasant daytime temperatures.

Indrahar Pass Trek

Indrahar Pass is a mountain pass in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 4,342 metres above sea level, near the tourist town of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, Indrahar pass forms the border between Kangra and Chamba districts.

The four-day Indrahar Pass trek takes you through vast meadows, gushing streams, deep gorges, tranquil lakes, and deodar forests. The trail begins in Mcleodganj and continues through the Triund, Laka Got, and Lahesh Caves camping grounds. The journey provides an excellent opportunity to learn about Himachal’s cultural diversity as well as its magnificent natural aesthetics. The sight of beautiful crystal blue lakes Mankiani and Kareri, as well as mind-blowing views of Kangra Valley, Pir Panjal, Kishtwar, Bara Banghal, and Mani Mahesh, are some of the trek’s major highlights.

Though it is a short trek, it is considered to be somewhat difficult due to the trekking trail’s numerous sharp ascents and steep climbs; therefore, trekkers with reliable mountaineering experience are encouraged to traverse this magnificent path.

• Key points- Indrahar Pass Trek
• Duration: 3 nights 4 days 
• Altitude: 4342m.
• Trek distance:
• Temperature: (-5°C to 18°C)                     
• Best time to visit: May, June, September and October
• Trek level: Easy to Moderate
• Trek route day by day: Mcleodganj, Triund, Laka Got, Indrahar Pass
• Weather: Nights are colder and compared to pleasant daytime temperatures.

Chanderkhani Pass Trek

Chanderkhani Pass, at an elevation of 3,650 metres, is a beginner-level trek located in Himachal’s Kullu district. This pass acts as a bridge between Kullu and Parvati valley offering marvelous landscapes and vegetation. In earlier settlement records, this pass was the only route to reach Malana village.

The trek begins in the picturesque Naggar settlement and continues across the Chanderkhani Pass to the Malana village. The first trail leading to the pass is known for its enchantment and alluring views. Hiking through forested areas of blue pine and deodar, walnut, golden oak, and wild cherry is part of the Chanderkhani pass trek. The trek also offers a breathtaking panorama of the Kullu region, as well as the cloud-touching peaks of Deo Tibba, Parbati, and Pir Panjal. The mountain slopes, magnificent flora-fauna, and water streams all contribute to it being one of the most scenic and photogenic passes in the country.

The Chanderkhani Pass trek is a five-day easy to moderately difficult trek with scenic vistas and stunning sunsets as well as sunrises. Trekkers of all skill levels are encouraged to explore these trails and discover Himachal’s untouched beauty.

• Key points- Chanderkhani Pass Trek
• Duration: 4 nights 5 days 
• Altitude: 3650m.
• Trek distance:
• Temperature: (5°C to 15°C)                     
• Best time to visit: May, June, September
• Trek level: Easy to Moderate
• Trek route day by day: Naggar, Rumsu, Stelling, Chiklani Base camp, Chanderkhani Pass, Nagruni Thach, Malana, Jari
• Weather: Nights are colder and compared to pleasant daytime temperatures.
• State name: Himachal Pradesh

Chandranahan Lake Trek

At a height of 13,900 feet, Chandranahan Lake is a small lake in Himachal Pradesh’s Pabbar valley. Its waters feed the River Pabbaar, one of the headwaters of the Ton River, which is also a major tributary to the Yamuna River. The entire trek route offers ever-changing scenic vistas of Himachal, ranging from green meadows to snow-covered plains and wild vegetation to snow-capped neighboring summits.

Chandranahan Lake, considered a trekker’s paradise, is relatively unexplored. Adventurers usually take this less travelled trail to complete the difficult route and witness the shimmering lake. 

The trail begins in Janglik and winds through dense pine forest with gushing streams before arriving at Dayara’s green meadows. The majestic Dayara is always a sight to behold, with golden reflections of the sunset and sunrise. This trek to the sacred Chandernahan Lake is an easy to moderate level trek that encourages trekkers of all levels to traverse these routes and experience nature in its most natural state.

• Key points- Chandernahan Lake Trek
• Duration: 5 nights 6 days 
• Altitude: 13,900ft..
• Trek distance:
• Temperature: Day-(13°C to 18°C)  Nights (0°C to 7°C)                
• Best time to visit: May, June, September and October
• Trek level: Easy to Moderate
• Trek route day by day: Janglik, Dayara, Litham, Chandranahan Lake
• Weather: Nights are colder and compared to pleasant daytime temperatures.

Pin Parvati Pass Trek

The Pin Parvati Pass, at an elevation of 5,319 metres, is a mountain pass in Himachal Pradesh, India. This pass connects the lush and fertile Parvati valley on the Kullu side with the barren high-altitude Pin valley on the Spiti side. The trek provides spectacular experience of two contrasting worlds; on one side, trekkers can cherish the lush meadows, while on the other, they get to admire the cold arid deserts of Spiti Valley.

The Pin Parvati Pass trek, which begins in Kalga and ends in Mudh in Spiti Valley, is one of the most scenic treks in the Himalayas. The trail winds through lush green forests, wide open meadows, numerous waterfalls, and a high altitude lake before bringing you close to the Parvati glacier. During the trek to Pin Parvati camp, Mantalai, known for its age-old Lord Shiva temple and charming lake, serves as a cheerful host. One of the highlights of this trek is camping under a clear sky at the Mantalai Lakeside, with a view of the neighboring snow-capped mountains and glaciers.

Given the length and rugged terrain, this is a difficult level trek requiring excellent physical fitness and endurance. Trekkers with reliable experience are encouraged to traverse these paths and enjoy the serenity of the journey.

• Key points- Pin Parvati Pass Trek
• Duration: 11 nights 12 days 
• Altitude: 5319m.
• Trek distance: On foot 110 Km – By taxi 236 km by Taxi
• Temperature: Summer Temperature: – Day 8°C to 12°C and Night: 0°C to 7°C)                
• Best time to visit: Mid July- Mid of September
• Trek level: Difficult
• Trek route day by day: Manali, Barshini, Kalga, Kheerganga, Tunda Bhuj, Thakur Kuan, Odi Thatch, Mantalai Lake, Pin Parvati Pass Base camp, Base camp 2, Tiya, Mudh, Kaza
• Weather: Nights are colder and compared to pleasant daytime temperatures.