HIKING TRAILS INDIA - TOP 5

Roopkund
A trek to Mystery Lake of Uttarakhand i.e. Roopkund Lake is a must-do for an avid trekker! Battling several adversities common to the Himalayas, this water body perched in the laps of the snow-clad Mt. Trishul is situated at an altitude of 16,499ft.

Most attractive for the human skeletons lying at the bottom of the lake, which are distinctly visible when the snow melts, the lake is swarmed by the plenitude of visitors.

The route along this trek is a fascinating journey of discovering the most pristine of the Himalayan contribution of oak and blooming rhododendron forests. A moderate trek, the trek trails through mountainous rivers, enthralling ridges, lush forests and scenic meadows.

Chaddar trek

If you've had enough of trekking over rolling glades or mountainous peaks, try walking over a frozen river next January. The frozen river Zanskar (also called Chadar that literally means sheet) situated in the Zanskar Valley presents an intriguing yet challenging trek, extending across 105 kilometres at extremely low temperatures (-25 degrees at night). The swiftly flowing river freezes over only in the months of January to February, and can prove an arduous obstacle to cross: one has to climb over icy rocks, and sleep in caves at night. The view combined with ice sheets that constantly change colour however, makes it an unparalleled experience.

Chandratal trek

Its romantic name (literally translated, Lake of the Moon) matched with its easy journey setting makes for an amorous vacation. Situated in Spiti valley, at a height of approximately 4,300 metres, this one-kilometre long lake is a popular destination for campers, and should be visited between May to October. Trekking enthusiasts headed to the Hampta Pass can also plan their route to spend a day here.

Indrahar pass trek

mountain pass in the Dhauladhar range, this is located close to Dharamsala at approximately 4,300 metres, and attracts a large trekking crowd between April and October. The trek starts from Bhagsu or Dharamkot, near Mcleod Ganj, and can take from 4-10 days to complete.

Valley of Flowers
The Valley of Flowers is a National Park in Uttarakhand. Rumour has it, the plethora of sweet scented flowers that blanket the vast meadows of this valley has the ability to send visitors into a deep-dream filled sleep. If you manage to stay awake, this trek through the Valley of Flowers will take you through steamy valleys, up rocky terrains and even give you the opportunity to take a dip in the Hemkund Sahib and warm yourself up with hot tea at the Gurdwara.