Summer Treks in Himachal Pradesh: Best Himalayan Treks

Himachal Pradesh, the 'Land of Snowy Mountains', also boasts as one of the most picturesque trekking destinations in India. From verdant, rolling valleys and beautiful alpine meadows to lofty mountain passes and frozen, glacial lakes, this Indian state offers and array of contrasting landscapes for the adrenaline- junkies to savor. Summer in Himachal is undoubtedly one of the best times to trek many treks here, as from May to June the weather is conducive; trails are more accessible and the higher altitude areas are also starting to open post winter snows. The treks in Himachal during summer are ideal for those, looking for that Himalayan rendezvous sans the piercing winter cold. Treks such as Hampta Pass, Bhrigu Lake, Beas Kund, Triund and Chandrakhani Pass offer astounding mountain vistas, where treks like Friendship Peak and Pin Bhaba Pass appeal to seasoned trekkers and mountaineers looking for more exciting higher-altitude experiences. For those wishing for a weekend venture in the Himalayas to those craving a true high-altitude trek across mountains, there is surely a trek for all.Table of ContentsOverviewSummer Treks in Himachal PradeshTips for Summer Treks in Himachal PradeshConclusionSummer is the best time to explore Himachal Pradesh on foot. The melting of snow takes its due time and before you know the trails are out all set for you to explore the verdant pastures, riot of colors, gurgling streams and of course breath taking vistas of Himalayas. When we come to the Manali we find Hampta Pass, Bhrigu Lake, and Beas Kund treks offering their best through their forests, meadows, glaciers and higher terrains.1. Hampta Pass TrekSTARTING POINT: Jobra, near ManaliENDING POINT: ChatruDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy to ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 35–40 KMBEST TIME: June to SeptemberThe Hampta Pass Trek is one of the best known summer treks of Himachal Pradesh and is quite inviting for first time high altitude pass trekkers. The trail begins near Manali and continues through thick forests, verdant valleys, open meadows and incredible mountainous terrains before reaching Hampta Pass. However, what adds much to the trip is the contrast of scenery while crossing over to the dry terrains of Lahaul from the green Kullu Valley. The trek typically commences from Jobra and proceeds along the Rani River, through lovely alpine environs. As you gain altitude the forests recedes to open out into wide meadows bounded by imposing mountains. This part of the terrain can look quite captivating in summer due to green slopes, rivers and patches of lingering snow. The climb to and traverse of Hampta Pass is the most enchanting part of the trekking trail. Trekker would be able to witness unparalleled Himalayan peaks and valleys from the Pass. The scenery can undergo quite a startling transition after passing the ridge, as the trek descends to the dry terrain of Lahaul and falls at Chatru. Several of the itineraries of the trek are combined with the Chandratal Lake too! The combination of a changing terrain, moderate levels and high altitude adventure makes it one of the best summer treks. Anyone with decent fitness and a desire to see an Himalayan Pass without a highly complicated expedition can opt for Hampta Pass.2. Friendship Peak TrekSTARTING POINT: Solang ValleyENDING POINT: Solang ValleyDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Difficult to ChallengingTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 30–35 KM, depending on the routeBEST TIME: May to June and September to OctoberFriendship Peak is one of the most famous high altitude trekking & mountaineering destinations around Manali. This imposing peak rises to 5,289 meters and is an adventurous route for the serious trekker aspiring to graduate from a trekking expedition to technical mountaineering. The route is strenuous requiring you to cover tough terrain with snow at places and high altitude conditions. The expedition usually starts from Solang Valley and proceeds towards high altitude camps below the peak. You will cover a trekking route through alpine pastures with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The ascent becomes steeper as you gain altitude and will require covering sections with snow. The final section to the peak requires both physical and technically challenging portions of snow slopes, steeper gradients, or glacial paths, depending on the time of year and actual conditions. Proper acclimatization, adequate physical conditioning and suitable gear are of utmost importance for making a successful attempt. Early summer months provide the perfect window for attempting such high altitude treks as there is usually snow present on the higher slopes. However, conditions in the high Himalayas are extremely variable and such expedition must be accompanied by an experienced mountaineering expedition team and requisite technical support. Friendship peak cannot be considered a trek that beginners can take; it requires adequate trekking exposure to high altitudes and comfort with tough climbing challenges. But for the adventure seeking spirit, Friendship Peak presents a phenomenal experience of high altitude and snow combined with great views and the joy of conquering the peak.3. Buran Ghati TrekSTARTING POINT: JanglikENDING POINT: BaruaDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate to DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 35–40 KMBEST TIME: May to June and September to OctoberBuran Ghati Trek is a unique high altitude trek in Himachal Pradesh. The trail connects dense forests with alpine meadows, villages and a mountain pass with striking scenery all along. Starting from Janglik, a Himalayan village in Himachal with lovely wooden houses. The route of Buran Ghati follows a trail through woods and open fields initially gaining elevation through Dayara and higher areas. During the summer, meadows bloom well adding a touch of color against the backdrop of snow laden peaks. The highlight of the trek is its mountain pass. One must ascend on a snow covered steep terrain, and at times, the ascent on the pass might requires the assistance of climbing equipment if the winter season snow lingers late. Once you successfully summit the pass. The downward slope leads to one of the beautiful destinations the Barua Valley that has different views, lush greenery, and an all together new environment. This hike is definitely for a fit person seeking the diversity of trekking in Himachal this summer.4. Chandrakhani Pass TrekSTARTING POINT: NaggarENDING POINT: Malana/near Malana ValleyDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy to ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 25–30 KMBEST TIME: May to June and September to OctoberLocated a stone's throw away from the tourist hub of Manali, the Chandrakhani Pass Trek promises an ideal mix of woods, lush grasslands, spectacular vistas and charming remote communities that are characteristic of the Himalayas. Beginning from the heritage village of Naggar, it's slow and steady ride through dense forests which will eventually open up into mesmerizing, wide-spread high altitude meadows with views of the imposing mountains. As the route steadily transcends from forest paths into barren rocky landscape leading onto to vast meadows in its way up, it can be seen that a majority of major Himalayas peaks (and surrounding ranges if clear) surround the route. The views offered, at every junction, by the mountain panoramas from the Kullu valley floor can be nothing short of mesmerizing. This passes sits pretty high up and offers splendid views. While in summers the route becomes much greener and quite manageable from its dormant, frozen state of winter, one would find wild flowers, green slopes and brilliant mountain views along the way. To cap this with the allure of traveling to a culturally interesting region like Malana valley which one can get proximity of whilst on the route, but in this case while walking through secluded patches not very far away, the Chandrakhani Pass trip provides everything a Himalayan trekking enthusiast could ever ask for. Being one of the not very technically challenging (comparatively high alt) Himalayan treks, it makes for a great option for trekking beginners who are somewhat fit, and also for veteran Himalayan travelers who are in a relatively light trek mood, as the distances are quite decent and vistas simply sublime.5. Sar Pass TrekSTARTING POINT: KasolENDING POINT: BarshainiDIFFICULTY LEVEL: ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 45–50 KMBEST TIME: May to JuneFor a refreshing Himalayan trip that is suitable for first-timers as well as young adventurers and enthusiasts in Himachal Pradesh, we recommend the Sar Pass Trek. This trek through the famous Parvati Valley comes as a breath of fresh mountain air as it takes you through pine woods and quaint mountain hamlets to expansive meadow stretches and patches of snow. The trek typically starts from the region of Kasol and takes you through charming village trails and forest paths. As we ascend on this itinerary, you'll discover how the landscape gradually transforms itself from dense patches of forest from Pine trees into alpine, open meadows and on the high ascents, one can sometimes even find snow, specifically when the pass is about to be reached. What’s truly special about the Sar Pass Trek is how much the scenery changes in just the space of one. For one while you might be treking through green cover and the next trail may see you crossing a expanse of snowy landscape and overlooking panoramic ranges; it is this diversity that has truly endeared this trek especially to novices wanting a bit more spice to their first Himalayan sojourn. Even during your trek back, a variety of stunning panoramas will take your eyes till the route gets back on the Parvati side. While June can sometimes witness snow on the trek path in Summer, it usually tends to be an easily trekable expanse in the summers with the weather being fairly conducive too. A day's descent from the pass can be one of those unforgettable experiences on this trekking trail. A good introduction to multi day treks in the Himalayas, the Sar Pass Trek is best done with good preparation and decent level of fitness for an excellent summer experience.6. Bhrigu Lake TrekSTARTING POINT: GulabaENDING POINT: Gulaba/Manali regionDIFFICULTY LEVEL: ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 20–25 KMBEST TIME: May to OctoberThe Bhrigu Lake Trek The Bhrigu Lake trek is a classic short high altitude trek that begins in the vicinity of Manali. The most popular attraction on this trail is the beautiful high altitude alpine lake of Bhrigu Lake along with the breathtaking mountain scenery and alpine meadows. One of the most distinctive features of this trek is the easy access it provides to the alpine level, something many other comparable treks do not offer. Bhrigu Lake, one of the several prominent high altitude lakes around Manali, the trek normally commences from the small village of Gulaba. After a short ascent through coniferous forest areas, you emerge into vast rolling meadows that become resplendent in green hues during summer. A breathtaking panorama of Pir Panjal and associated range of mountains forms the backdrop with the trekkers catching expansive views on days clear days. Further up, as the topography transforms into a rough and rugged, it heralds a definite high mountain experience and before long the destination: Bhrigu Lake perched at 4,300 meters, might be even partially covered by fresh or old snow depending on when one undertake this trek. Bhrigu Lake trek is a perfect destination for trek-lovers with just a handful days at disposal that seek to have an authentic high-altitude experience within Himalayas. Though short in length, this Himalayan treks pose a genuine challenging at a fairly high altitude and is not exactly child’s play. However, if you are a keen nature lover and have an eye for landscapes then there are few treks in the Himalayan region to match the sheer diversity of Bhrigu Lake with its blend of forests, alpine meadows, snowfields, terrain and mountains.7. Pin Bhaba Pass TrekSTARTING POINT: KafnuENDING POINT: Mudh, Spiti ValleyDIFFICULTY LEVEL: DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 50–60 KMBEST TIME: June to SeptemberThe Pin Bhaba Pass trek is the epitome of high-altitude crossover treks in Himachal Pradesh and perhaps across the Indian Himalayas. Connecting the verdant valley of Bhaba in Kinnaur with the arid & surreal landscapes of Pin Valley of Spiti, what makes this trek unforgettable and inimitable is this contrasting, mind boggling juxtaposition of environments – the fertile plains meeting the desolate mountains! Your trekking journey begins at Kafnu in the Bhaba valley, which leads you through lush, beautiful forested trails to alpine meadows, and follows river valleys. As you climb steadily towards higher elevations, you leave the green cover of Kinnaur and encounter increasingly arid environs. You eventually approach the high altitude pass that links the two contrasting valleys of Himachal. You cross Pin Bhaba Pass, which can be challenging with snow, steep slopes, extreme cold, and fluctuating weather but wait, do not prepare yourself mentally because the crossing is not the climax, not exactly. As you successfully conquer the crossing the landscape magically transforms with every step you take downwards; away from Kinnaur into the barren lands of Spiti! Enjoy stunning views as you descend into Mudh village in Pin Valley, gazing at the magnificent surrounding mountains. You will experience this drastic change in ecology after crossing the high pass. Not suitable for beginner, this trek has been a favourite for those looking for a blend of adventure, thrill, varied ecosystems with an ideal test for stamina and high altitude trekking experience.8. Triund TrekSTARTING POINT: McLeod Ganj/DharamkotENDING POINT: TriundDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy to ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 9–10 KM one wayBEST TIME: March to June and September to DecemberTriund Trek - 2 Day Triund, a beginner-friendly day and overnight trek accessible from near McLeod Ganj and Dharamshala, is a convenient trek into the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh and ideal for those who are new to trekking, are on a weekend trip or wish to enjoy the experience of mountains without going for long high-altitude trips. It is also quite suitable for families and children of age 8 to 70 for a short trek. You get a lovely route through dense woods of Oak, Pine, Rhododendron that eventually give way to spectacular open meadow of Triund that eventually ends up a peak where one could view the entire Dhauladhar range to the horizon along with the lush Kangra valley at the bottom, this makes this a best trek for any novice. The Triund is a great destination during summer as we are blessed with pleasant weather than the hotter plains down low. In summer one will witness clear skies and excellent views of the mountains and the meadows turn into an exquisite ground to relax. The trail to Triund, although moderately short, it is somewhat steep at few places. So A decent level of physical fitness is require A day or overnight trip to Triund, is undoubtedly the way one could go on to get Introduced with the awe inspiring world of Himalayan High-Altitude trekking.9. Beas Kund TrekSTARTING POINT: Solang ValleyENDING POINT: Beas KundDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy to ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 25–30 KMBEST TIME: May to OctoberBeas Kund Trek is a moderately paced, high altitude expedition to the source of Beas River in the vicinity of Manali town. It is an idyllic and a picturesque expedition trip where a wonderful mix of high altitude alpine meadows, mountains streams, rocky terrains and spectacular views of a set of famous mountains greet you in every turn. This trail of Beas Kund trek primarily starts from Solang Valley and unfolds through a beautiful tract of Dhundi, Bakarthach, where you ascend slowly with your way going through open meadows and terrains going higher up altitude, open green meadows in summer and in places laced with some traces of snow in the upper regions. It is the expanse of views of the neighboring peaks all along which makes it an excellent trek; these peaks often frame the entire views you see in this expedition, a virtual photography heaven. The landscape transitions to rockier landscapes at higher elevations when the destination comes into sight. The significance attached to the place Beas Kund, source of Beas River, adds a kind of cultural dimension and then ascending the Beas Kund through the upward path towards the lake eventually becomes a wholesome expedition. Highlights of Beas Kund Trek: This makes Beas Kund trek a popular short trip to experience a Himalayan high altitude landscape close to Manali. It provides a great preview of high altitude exploration without undertaking large / extremely demanding explorations, provided the traveler respects the altitude and climbs steadily.10. Indrahar Pass TrekSTARTING POINT: McLeod Ganj/DharamkotENDING POINT: Chamba regionDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate to DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 35–45 KMBEST TIME: May to June and September to OctoberBest summer hike Indrahar Pass is one of the most thrilling summer treks of the Dhauladhar region. The trek starts close to Dharamshala, cutting through deep forests, alpine meadows and the rugged slopes to arrive at the Indrahar Pass. Start you ascent from the vicinity of Triund to the lower forests. Later climb up to Laka Got as you head toward the higher regions of the ranges of the Dhauladhar, where the altitude begins to matter to your system and the terrain also turns trickier. Stand on the Indrahar Pass to enjoy immense views over the Himalayas and the valley below, the region near the upper end of the pass might be under snow even up to the beginning of summers making it an all the more adventurous expedition over and across this pass. Even during summers, especially in the first summer month or so, the region around the high end of the Pass might have fresh, knee deep snow making the cross challenging and memorable – Indrahar Pass trek experience! The visual transformation at the Indrahar Pass for summery days is fascinating, as green landscapes turn into rugged slopes covered with grass on its way. High summer is among the favorite months for visiting the pass on foot since the accessibility of the trekking trail to reach the Indrahar Pass during this season becomes smoother due to the relatively pleasant weather though at times snow can be encountered on some parts. As a trekking trail, this hike would best suited for trekkers equipped with high endurance and some prior trekking knowledge in Himalayan region. Considering all this, the Indrahar Pass trek should be a good option for those fond of high altitude challenges and looking forward for some remarkable summer trip along the ridges of Himachal Pardesh, especially in Dhauladhars.11. Churdhar TrekSTARTING POINT: NohradharENDING POINT: Churdhar PeakDIFFICULTY LEVEL: ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 14–18 KM one way, depending on the routeBEST TIME: April to June and September to NovemberTop treks in Churdhar trekking Himachal Churdhar trek leads you to the highest peak of outer Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh at height of 11027ft above the sea level. Nestled in Sirmaur, the trek offer you the serene forests, excellent views of surrounding mountains, also it is also a place of religious significance. Nohradhar route are also popularly use route to reach the Churdhar peak. You start climbing to this peak from the forests you climb gradually through lushgreen forest you have best panorama of hills and the valleys. Climbing Churdhar trekking is also popular for its spectacular view from summit of the hill you will see a wide vista view of Himalayan Ranges if clear day. The famous chureshwar Mahadev temple at the summit is revered all across Sirmaur. Churdhar peak are not so steep that requires any professional trekking training,However, because you go to a decent altitude, you can use to maintain body strength and you feel great strength when you complete the climbing of churdhar . Summers are perfect to visit here so that you may experience blooming season. If your intention of adventure trip in Himachal Pradesh then Churdhar can be on the most promising routes from few reasons it is in the proximity of cities from sirmaur region and provides decent trek up and down to your adventure spirit.12. Jalori Pass TrekSTARTING POINT: Jalori PassENDING POINT: Serolsar Lake/nearby trailsDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy to ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 5–10 KM for popular routesBEST TIME: March to June and September to NovemberThe beautiful mountain resort of Jalori Pass, located in the Kullu region of Himachal Pradesh provides some exciting short trekking options. Not the extremely arduous trek, unlike the long mountain expeditions at higher altitudes, the paths originating from the pass are easily traversable and perfect for someone seeking a tranquil trekking experience in the Himalayas. A favorite of many treks form the Jalori pass goes to the serene Serolsar Lake passing through dense foliage thereby offering a respite and a peaceful, refreshing locale away from the typical hubbub of tourists. Serolsar lake is also a local holy water body surrounded by dense, captivating forests making it one of favorite picnic-spots to be on. Apart from the treks, the environs of the Jalori pass offers amazing valley views along with scenic back drops of mountains making it a worth-visit for honeymoon couples, Families & Trekkers who have less time on hand.13. Kheerganga TrekSTARTING POINT: BarshainiENDING POINT: KheergangaDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy to ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 12–14 KM round tripBEST TIME: April to June and September to NovemberA Short Himalayan Himalayan Trek You Must Consider The Kheerganga trek is among the most sought after shortest Himalayan trek in Himachal Pradesh. Situated inside the Parvati Valley, the trek is blessed with lush forests, winding rivers, picturesque water streams, stunning mountains and an immensely profound & serene environment. Kheerganga trek usually commences from Barshaini to proceed towards the verdure, crossing some beautiful little towns as well as village of the region. Your way will present some delightful combination of forest landscapes and village charm in Parvati Valley. With streams gushing on and water streams splashing on your way, while taking a moment off to watch the scenic view of the majestic hills along the trek, you will only have moments to experience here! Kheerganga holds a very important religious value as the place is connected to Lord Shiva and attracts various religious tourists and pilgrims each day. The major highlight of Kheerganga is its natural hot water spring.14. Spiti Valley TrekSTARTING POINT: Varies by routeENDING POINT: Varies by routeDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate to DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Varies depending on the routeBEST TIME: June to SeptemberIt is hard to believe that so many possibilities exist for hiking in this region once one of India’s greatest remoteness locations; one, in particular, is the great high-altitude district known as Spiti. Spiti lies within Himachal Pradesh, and within these high mountain ranges of the Indian Himalayas it presents remoteness valleys of vast expanse, ancient monasteries set in deep gorge’s and spectacular barren landscapes of mountain views so high it almost resembles a deserte landscape with river streams snaking through gorges of barren brown mountains! Summer time often presents as the ideal season to discover Spiti valley. With weather that usually is more forgiving the region often shows a completely different face. In comparison to the rich Green valleys in and around Manali Spiti valley presents itself with some dry desert-like mountains with scattered and distant tiny villages and deep rocky gorges or with numerous thin streams that cut across the landscape. During a Spiti trek you can experience and travers ancient remote settlements, deep gorges and even extreme remote ancient monasteries in high high altitude’s, also such trekk experiences within the Pin Valley and around Dhankar / Kaza are well available to admire some well structured 5 – to 8- day trekking trips that present wonderful Spiti hiking tours! We are strongly recommend to slow down in Spiti; as it is a high altitude zone so we should give body a chance to acclimatize to the thin air gradually so not to face any health issues like High Altitude sickness’. Spiti valley weather changes quickly; more especially high altitude pass routes where weather can change rapidly.15. Chandratal TrekSTARTING POINT: Kunzum Pass/Batal region, depending on routeENDING POINT: Chandratal LakeDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy to ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 10–20 KM depending on the approachBEST TIME: June to SeptemberHigh up in the desolate stretches of the Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh holds this gem: Chandratal Lake. This naturally occurring lake, nicknamed the “Moon Lake”, is so called thanks to the striking arc shape it takes, cradled between mountains and a vista of brilliant blue. Best known for their dramatic mountain ranges, this region has a truly different look to offer and Chandratal is possibly the prettiest spot. Although most of the Himalayan routes are full of gruelling long treks, you don’t have to be a hardened trekker to enjoy the high-altitude views available here. Depending on when and where you decide to begin, road trip to Chandratal from Batal may take all but half a day and can be fitted within just a part of your stay. However, remember that the best time for visiting Chandratal Lake, which is when it’s mostly free from the icy glaze, is generally the summer months after the last vestiges of ice have cleared from around the lake. The view of remaining patches of snow against the barren, rocky hills and bright blue water is truly something special! Chandratal, along with its surroundings, is one that requires you not only to appreciate the end goal, but the journey itself-because let me tell you, the road trip to Chandratal Lake is an epic in its own right. Take your time during the initial journey up to get yourself accustomed to the altitude-you don’t want your trip marred because you didn't acclimatize well! Photographers, road trip enthusiasts, and adventure buffs, take note; a visit to Chandratal is a must on a summer trip to the Lahaul-Spiti valley!Tips for Summer Treks in Himachal PradeshSelect a route according to your fitness, trekking experience and altitude tolerance.Himalayan weather can change quickly, even during summer.Choose shoes with good grip for rocky, muddy and uneven trails.Summer afternoons can be pleasant, but temperatures can drop sharply at higher altitudes.Sunglasses, sunscreen, a cap and full-sleeved clothing are useful at high altitudes.Carry sufficient water and use a reliable water purification method where required.Give your body enough time to adjust before attempting higher-altitude sections.Respect local communities, protected areas and trekking regulations.Carry your waste back and keep Himalayan trails clean.ConclusionSummer season in Himachal has such an amazingly variety of experiences that you can actually plan treks according to the different skill and fitness levels ranging between easy treks such as Triund, Jalori pass and Kheerganga to high altitude treks such as Hampta pass, Bhrigu lake, Indrahar pass, and strenuous treks such as Friendship peak and Pin Baba pass for very experienced trekkers. The special feature of summer season in Himachal is the diverse topography you will see across the state from green meadows and valleys to flowing streams and rivers to snow covered mountains and the contrasts between cold high altitude deserts. Whether be it a short weekend getaway or a strenuous multi-day endeavor, a carefully chosen trekking spot, pre-trip preparation and respecting the local environment is surely the key to a successful expedition to the Himalayas.