The Himalayan treks, often referred to as the “abode of snow,” boast some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet with diverse flora and fauna. As the snow retreats and the trails become more accessible, trekking adventures come to life during summer.
Don’t get me wrong. Nowadays, people are going for the most popular and crowded Himalayan treks when they want to experience solitude and nature. However, there are also newer treks that are as beautiful as the well-known ones. And it bothers me greatly that trekkers don’t know about these treks. These Himalayan treks can give you the whole experience of mountain cultural encounters and the heavenly bliss of nature.
This is why I decide to note down a list of treks that are the best lesser-known along with the popular ones to do this summer. Let me know if any of these treks don’t take your breath away. I’ve sorted the Top 10 Himalayan Treks by order of their difficulty. We’ll go from easy to difficult treks.
1. Phulara Ridge-A Panoramic Tapestry of Nature’s Grandeur:
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 6 days
Best time for trekking: May, June, September, October, November
This is a moderate, mild-temperature trek which is hidden in plain sight. It begins from Kotgoan, the same base camp as the popular Kedarkantha. This trek silently watches on while Kedarkantha seems massive crowds.
It is the most wonderful ridge trek in India. As soon as you reach the summit of the Phulara ridge, you’ll be greeted by a panoramic view of snow-clad peaks spanning a 270-degree angle. On the opposing side, undulating hills extend to the distant horizon. Beneath you, the slopes of the mountains descend on both flanks. This ridge trek spans three hours, yet with each passing minute, you sense the exhilaration akin to standing atop a peak. The Phulara Ridge guarantees an indelible expedition deep into the essence of the Himalayas.
If you’re looking to trek with your family and looking for budget-friendly summer trekking in the Himalayas. Then this is definitely a good option! The best time to go for an expedition is from mid-April onwards till mid-May for a safe amount of snow!
2. Dayara Bugyal- Explore the Alpine Splendor of Uttarakhand:
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Duration: 6 days
Best time to visit: January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November, December
Only a very few trekkers have set foot on the Dayara Bugyal trek. It is definitely rewarding for very little effort.
The vast meadows, beautiful campsites, and vibrant landscape make Dayara Bugyal an ideal summer trek. Especially if there are kids aged eight years and above, because it’s suitable for a perfect family trek, like the Phulara Ridge trek above.
3. Ali Bedni Bugyal- Alpine Serenity in the Heart of the Himalayas:
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 6 days
Best best time to visit: January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November, December
Among the various excursions through the Nepalese meadows, Ali Bedni Bugyal offers the most magnificent vistas of the mountains. Mount Trishul and Mount Nanda Ghunti stand within close proximity to Bedni Bugyal. The expanses of Ali and Bedni meadows are captivating in their own right, stretching as far as the eye can behold.
These meadows constitute one of the most extensive high-altitude meadows along the Himalayan trail!
Furthermore, the unforgettable sunrises and sunsets while camping at Abin Kharak and the unique experience of trekking through ancient historical sites and dense forests make this trek a treasure in itself.
4. Kedarkantha-Glacial Beauty and High-Altitude Challenge:
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Duration: 6 days
Best time for trekking: January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November, December
There are many reasons why it is a very popular trek in the Himalayan province. The the summit climb is the most important of them.
Exact from the base camp of the trek, the summit looms large. The Kedarkantha summit climb is very rewarding one. As you start your trek in the early morning hours and steadily climb the steep slope, the world surrounds you.
The climb is very challenging. The entire stretch is very steep. It becomes complex as you approach the peak, as well. However, the towering peaks of the upper Himalayas accompany you until you ultimately reach the summit.
As you extend yourself and absorb the vistas of the Himalayas from the peak, you experience a profound sense of fulfillment and achievement. This sensation is unmatched.
Few treks provide a similar thrill, rendering it well-liked among novices for its supreme summit ascent!
5. Har Ki Dun – Take a Walk to The Shelter of Gods:
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 8 days
Best time to visit: March, April, May, June, September, October, November, December
The cultural encounters will amaze you at the beginning of the trek, and you will pass through ancient wooden villages that still stand the same despite being many centuries old. The stories of vibrant festivals and legends of these villages dating back to the mythologies will satisfy your thirst for knowledge.
Later, the astounding scenery changes every day, which can leave anyone breathless. Then, Ruinsara Tal pulls every possible expectation from under our feet. It’s a wonder that such places exist in the Himalayan trek.
6. Gidara Bugyal – Peaceful Meadows Amidst Nature’s Embrace:
Difficulty: Moderate – Difficult
Duration: 8 days
Best time for trekking: June, September
Gidara Bugyal is a pristine alpine meadow renowned for its natural beauty, cultural encounters, and tranquil ambiance. It stands as among the highest-altitude grasslands you’ll ever tread upon. It surpasses its counterpart, Dayara Bugyal, in size. Conceivably even outstrips the paired pastures of Ali and Bedni Bugyal. A journey across it demands a minimum of two days. Does that sound challenging?
Even though it is well known in the trekking circles, Gidara is extremely secluded. There are very few people who actually trek in these meadows. The only signs that people live nearby are the shepherds and their homes near your first camp, Rikoda. You might see a few dogs, too. But you’ll likely be the only group hiking and camping in these fields!
7. Gaumukh Tapovan – A Sacred Journey to the Source:
Difficulty: Moderate – Difficult
Duration: 8 days
Best time for trekking: May, June
Gaumukh Tapovan is a revered pilgrimage site and a trekker’s paradise nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. In fact, this trek is the only trek in the Himalayan region that takes you closer to Mt. Shivling, where you see it for yourself from the base to the summit in one large frame!
Along with Mt Shivling, Bhagirathi, and Mt Meru, the sisters keep close company at Tapovan.
8. Rupin Pass- A Trans-Himalayan Journey:
Difficulty: Moderate – Difficult
Duration: 7 days
Best Months for trekking: May, June, September, October
If an iconic journey exists in India, it undoubtedly lies within the Rupin Pass expedition. This adventure resembles a symphony, gradually crescendoing with unexpected changes in landscape at regular intervals. With each stride forward, the expedition unveils fresh panoramas, revealing new vistas with abruptness!
The journey commences with surprises right from the onset of the trekking experience. Approximately 20 minutes along the path, you catch sight of the Rupin River emerging, spreading out into a broad expanse beneath you. And the journey doesn’t end there. Beyond this point, the path winds through suspended settlements and unexpectedly descends into a dense pine woodland!
But that’s just the beginning. The trail then winds its way through icy meadows, snow-capped bridges, glacial valleys, lush scenery, snowy expanses, and myriad cascades!
9. Bali Pass – Crossing the Threshold into Himalayan treks Majesty:
Difficulty: Difficult
Duration: 8 days
Best time for trekking: June, Septem
Few hikes offer the chance to immerse oneself in the unrefined magnificence of a Himalayan pass journey. Linking Har Ki Dun Valley with Yamunotri, the Bali Pass presents an electrifying route. It crosses the meeting point of Tons and Ruinsara rivers, the Ruinsara Valley’s tranquil seclusion, and the Devsu Thach’s verdant pastures.
10. Kedartal – Crystal Lake in the Lap of Sacred Peaks:
Difficulty: Difficult
Duration: 7 days
Best time for trekking: May, June, September, October
One of our demanding expeditions is certainly not suitable for novices. It ascends 16,000 ft to reach the Kedartal Lake, offering close encounters with towering peaks like Mt Thalaysagar and Mt Bhrigupanth.
This journey ranks high in thrill and is a test of endurance due to its lengthy stretches, rugged terrain, and ascents to extreme altitudes. If you seek the excitement of treks such as Rupin Pass and Gaumukh Tapovan but wish to explore a different route, opt for this expedition.
Embark on this adventure only if you possess exceptional fitness and some prior experience with high-altitude trekking. Its verdant landscapes will leave you breathless.
Himalayan treks during the summer are a magical experience, as nature comes alive with vibrant colors and verdant landscapes. The summer trek is not just a physical challenge but a soul-stirring journey that immerses you in the unparalleled beauty of the mountains. Each trek on this list brings its own unique charm; whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, the top 10 Himalayan treks mentioned above promise maximum summer joy and unforgettable memories amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of the mountain.
So, gear up, embrace the adventure, and let the Himalayan trails unfold like never before. You will save 5% when you reserve your Nepal Trek with Alpine Ramble Treks.
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