1. Kedarkantha TrekThe Kedarkantha Trek is another popular winter camping and trekking when in India. This trek lies in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary in the Ukhrikhanda area of Uttarakhand. Build up the anticipation with a picture-perfect setup alongside snow-laden peaks, dense pine forests, cute little villages, and the magnificent view of the Himalayas. The trek ends at the Kedarkantha Summit, at an elevation of 12,500 ft (3,800 m), which is ideal for beginners to experience snow trekking. Of course, seasoned trekkers can also give it a try for the challenge.History of Kedarkantha TrekKedarkantha is mentioned in Hindu mythology. It is said that Lord Shiva went there to meditate before going to Kedarnath. The villagers are said to have disturbed him while meditating, so he went away to Kedarnath. The name Kedarkantha signifies "Throat of Lord Shiva." Small shrines are scattered about, and the populace holds the place sacred. This trek lies in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary in the Ukhrikhanda area of Uttarakhand. Build up the anticipation with a picture-perfect setup alongside snow-laden peaks, dense pine forests, cute little villages, and the magnificent view of the Himalayas.Nearby Places of Kedarkantha TrekSankri Village: A picturesque Himalayan hamlet serving as the base camp for several Tajarian treks, including Har Ki Dun and Rupin Pass.Juda Ka Talab: Surrounded by pine woods, the lake acts as a good campsite for the Kedarkantha trek. Its frozen beauty is worth watching through the winter.Someshwar Mahadev Temple: Locals venerated an old Shiva temple in Sankri. A spiritual destination encircled by beautiful nature.Har Ki Dun Valley: One more stunning route beginning at Sankri. Known as the "Valley of the Gods," it boasts verdant vegetation, mountain meadows, and a river fed by glaciers.Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha TrekWinter (December to April): The most visited season at Kedarkantha is this one. Offering a magical experience, the entire trail is covered in heavy snow. Often referred to in India as the "Queen of Winter Treks"Monsoon (July to September): Because of muddy trails, heavy rains, and the possibility of landslides, trekking is usually not advised during the monsoon.Autumn (October to November): Trekking before the snow starts is perfect right now, given the clear skies, fresh air, and breathtaking scenery.How to Reach Kedarkantha TrekBy Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station is the closest train station. Travellers can take a taxi or bus to Sankri (roughly 10–11 hours by road).By Road: The nearest train station is Dehradun Railway Station. From there, travellers can take a taxi or bus to Sankri, roughly a 10–11-hour drive.2. Hampta Pass TrekAmong the Himachal Pradesh Himalayan mountains, the Hampta Pass Trek is a well-known cross-country hike connecting the lush Kullu valleys with the arid landscape of Lahaul and Spiti. Beginner explorers looking for an ambitious but somewhat demanding Himalayan experience will find this walk at 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) perfect. The trip is well-known for its great geographic variety, which spans from towering mountain passes and parched deserts to glacial valleys and thick pine woods.History of the Hampta Pass TrekOriginally a customary route used by shepherds of the Chamba and Lahaul regions to move their herds across the mountains in search of grazing grasslands, Hampta Pass was valued over the years by hikers for its breathtaking beauty and peculiar terrain variations. Taken from Hamta Village, which marks the start of the journey down the Sethan Valley, the name "Hampta".Nearby Places of the Hampta Pass TrekSethan Valley: Famous for snow activities and offbeat charm, a quiet hamlet above Manali. It is travelling toward Jobra.Chandratal Lake: Usually placed at the end of the walk, Chandratal is a crescent-shaped lake in the Spiti area recognised for its stunning beauty and reflections of the neighbouring mountains.Pass Rohtang: Entry to Lahaul-Spiti is a well-known travel destination. near Chatru, where the journey comes to a close.Best Time to Visit the Hampta Pass TrekJune to September: The best and only advised time for the Hampta Pass Trek is this. Mid-June, the snow starts to melt, allowing the trail to be accessible. During this time:June to July: Snow on the high passes will greet you, as well as green valleys below.August to September: reduced snow, cleaner skies, and vivid landscapes.How to Reach the Hampta Pass TrekBy Airport: Manali Airport is the nearest airport to Manali, which is just 50 km away from the city. The best way to go from the airport to Manali is by hiring a taxi or catching a bus.By Railway Stations: Chandigarh and Joginder Nagar are the two main railway stations closest to Manali. However, the nearest train stations are only the starting points for a car trip to the location.By Road: Manali's direct road connection to Delhi, Chandigarh, as well as major Northern Indian centres, is available through roadways. Even while it is a very fragile environment, the local administration has done a lot of work in keeping it sustainable and at the same time open to ecotourism.3. Valley of Flowers (Uttarakhand)The Valley of Flowers, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is a very well-known and highly picturesque trek in India. This place, at a height of 12,000 feet(3658 meters) in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is the location of a unique UNESCO World Heritage Site that has become a popular spot among many trekkers and tourists to India for its green meadows and colourful flowers, as well as the heavenly sight of snow peaks. The place is illustrious. Besides the sheer magnificence of the place, which can easily be seen, the valley shows its jaw-dropping beauty, which brings every hill, nook and corner so beautifully to the limelight by exhibiting more than 600 types of flowers mainly in different colours ranging from the basic violet to the Beyond those the eye can see color scale. Moreover, the entire region turns colourful with this flooding of flowers.History of the Valley of FlowersWhen the English were descending from their mountain, they found a sweet valley on the road near the end of the sanctuary and in 1931, British mountaineers Frank Smythe and R.L. Holdsworth first discovered the Valley of Flowers. One of the most important ecosystems in the world is the Valley of Flowers, which has also been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a result of. The area is supposed to be the piece of earth where Hanuman found the Sanjeevani Booti to revive Lakshmana in the Ramayana.Nearby Places of the Valley of FlowersHemkund Sahib: Just 6 kilometres uphill from Ghangaria, this hallowed Sikh pilgrimage site is at 14,100 feet. It is among the highest Gurudwaras in the world, set among snow-capped mountains and a glacial lake.Lord Badrinath: Joshimath is the centre point for trips and pilgrimages in the area and a holy town. It acts as a critical foundation for treks and the winter seat of Lord Badrinath.Shrine of Badrinath: Situated around 45 kilometres from Govindghat, India's Char Dham is one of the places of pilgrimage. For those seeking a spiritual journey, this is a must-see.Best Time to Visit the Valley of FlowersMid-July to Mid-September: This period of the year is the only time that one can get into the Valley of Flowers and witness its entire bloom. The rainy season is what causes the flowers to be in their peak, it is creating the most beautiful valley of the country.July to August: The beginning of the blooming.September: There might not be so many flowers and the season is over, but there are no clouds and people.How to Reach the Valley of FlowersBy Airport: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 290 km away from Govindghat. After you have reached the airport, you can go to the taxi or the shared jeep sections and then to Joshimath and further to Govindghat.By Train: The closest station is Rishikesh (270 km from Govindghat). There are buses and taxis in Rishikesh that will take you to Joshimath and Govindghat.By Road: The town of Govindghat is accessible by a good road via Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. A table is available that indicates the 4 km from Govindghat to Pulna and the following trek to4. Tarsar Marsar TrekTarsar Marsar Trek is considered one of the most alluring treks in Kashmir Valley for the mesmerising mix of alpine lakes, flower meadows, snow-capped Pelemen Mountains, and pristine camping spots. Situated in District Anantnag of Jammu & Kashmir, the trek heads straight into the raw natural beauty of Kashmir, with the chief attraction being the twin lakes of Tarsar and Marsar, fringed by high mountains. With an average participant altitude of roughly 13,000 feet (3,962 meters), this 7-day trek remains moderate while enticing those wanting a less-crowded alternative to the commercially popular treks.History of Tarsar Marsar TrekThough not directly linked to any tangible religious or mythical story, the lakes carry this otherworldly charm about them from the locals. Marsar Lake, especially, has been held in high regard and is generally not even approached up close. Spiritually, the two lakes may be represented in folklore as the two faces of Kashmir: calm and mysterious, separated by a mountain. The region had long remained closed to the trekkers due to security considerations, but has recently opened up and is slowly gaining popularity among the adventurers.Nearby Places to Visit: Tarsar Marsar TrekAru Valley: Somewhat famously known as a less-crowded valley near Pahalgam, Aru is flanked by pine forests and hills and is the starting point for many treks, including Kolahoi Glacier and Tarsar Marsar.Pahalgam: A much-talked-about town for tourists because of its scenic beauty, riverside allure, and genuine Kashmiri hospitality. Great to unwind before or after a trek.Betaab Valley: Several kilometres away from Pahalgam, this gorgeous place was named after the Bollywood movie "Betaab," conjuring images of a surreal landscape.Kolahoi Glacier Trek: Another tough trek in this area that lands you at the foot of Kolahoi Peak, better known as the Matterhorn of Kashmir.Best Time to Visit Tarsar Marsar TrekMid-June to Mid-September: During this lucky time window for the Tarsar Marsar trek, the meadows are green, flowers are in full bloom, and lakes remain open.June – July: Snow patches remain, flowers start to bloom, and meadows turn lushAugust – Early September: Warm weather, full bloom, and clear trail all unite.Post mid-September: Temperatures drop sharply, and trails begin to close.How to Reach Tarsar Marsar TrekBy Airport: The silver lining for this trek is that it is most easily accessed from Srinagar Airport (SXR), which has excellent air connections to major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai & Bangalore. The travel distance from Srinagar to Pahalgam is only about 90-100 km, providing plenty of options. After that, it is about an additional 12 km from Pahalgam to Aru Village by cab.By Train: The main train station is Jammu Tawi and is about 260 km from Srinagar. You could take a bus or a shared cab from there to reach Srinagar, and then to Aru.By Road: The road distances from Srinagar or Jammu are excellent across all of North India.5. Sandakphu Trek (West Bengal - Sikkim border)Sandakphu Trek is the highest trekking route in West Bengal at about an elevation of 11,930 feet (3,636 meters). Trekkers on this trek will get to see four of the five highest peaks of the world, namely Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu. For trekkers, this experience of seeing four of the five tallest peaks in one go is the biggest highlight of this trek. The trek follows along the Singalila Ridge, which is the natural border between West Bengal and Sikkim. It will include bush walking, through picturesque villages and pristine rhododendron forests,History of Sandakphu TrekThe Sandakphu route has always been part of an ancient trade and pilgrimage route that local pilgrims and merchants used to take. The trek runs alongside the old Indo-Nepal trade route and flickers into Nepal at several points along the trek. The word "Sandakphu" refers to "Height of the Poison Plant", which references the poisonous aconite plant that is present near the top of the peak. Today, in modern times, the Sandakphu trek is known more widely because of the Kanchenjunga family of peaks, many calling it "Sleeping Buddha" because the formation resembles a sleeper figure lying on the ground.Nearby Places Sandakphu TrekSingalila National Park: This protected area contains red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and a large variety of birds. A biodiversity hotspot.Tumling: The beautiful Tamling village provides first views of Kanchenjunga, and most trekkers will overnight here on Day 1.Phalut: Around 21 km from Sandakphu, it has one of the most exclusive perspectives of the Himalayan range, and 360° views.Darjeeling: The famous hill station is nearby, where you will likely want some leisure time either before or after your trek. Visit the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Tiger Hill, and Batasia Loop.Best Time of Year to Visit the Sandakphu TrekSpring (April-May): During this time, you will see Pink Rhododendrons and Magnolias along the pathway in bloom. During these months, visibility is normally much better, and the weather is usually mild as well.(October-early December): During this time, you have not only the clarity but you have wonderful views of the mountains at that time of year. Plus, with cool crisp air, the photo opportunities are endless!How to Reach Sandakphu TrekBy Airport: The nearest airport to Sandakphu is at Bagdogra (IXB) airport. This is about 90 kilometres from Manebhanjan. From the airport, you can take a taxi to Darjeeling (about 3 hrs), or a taxi directly to Manebhanjan (4-5 hrs).By Train: The nearest train station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP). You can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from NJP to Manebhanjan via Darjeeling.By Road: You can take a taxi or just shared jeep from Siliguri, Darjeeling or NJP to Manebhanjan. Manebhanjan is where your trek will start, so you will start your trek from Manebhanjan on foot or in a vintage Land Rover up to Tumling or Gairibas.6. Dzongri Trek (Sikkim)Besides having stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range, rich Rhododendron forests, and alpine meadows at high altitude, the Dzongri trek is one of the most stunning and thrilling short treks out of Sikkim. Dzongri is a viewpoint in its own right, sitting at 13,200 ft (4,023 m) above sea level, and is halfway to trek that continues to a longer, more difficult trek to Goechala. If you would like a wonderful high-altitude trek and experience of the Himalayas but not the commitment of time and risks that come with the longer treks, this can be seen as a more suitable alternative trek. The trek traverses the Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site for its amazing biodiversity and sacred geography. The unique characteristics of these landscapes provide a trek that feels different from any of the other popular local treks in Sikkim, and the natural and social history of the act of trekking alone is engrossing. Trekkers have been travelling this same path and trail to Dzongri for so many generations, from the early incantations of the Tibetan Buddhist monks, yak herders and the ethnic tribes indigenous to the land, the Lepchas and Bhutias, in the Sacred Kanchenjunga region of Sikkim, which is treated with utmost respect by the people of Sikkim.History of Dzongri TrekFor over a thousand years, Buddhist monks, yak herders and indigenous groups of people like the Lepchas and the Bhutias have made the journey to Dzongri. The Kanchenjunga area is a sacred place in Sikkimese culture and mythology. Your trek will likely have a few sightings of prayer flags, chortens, and monasteries, each in their way symbolic of the spiritual energy of the Himalayas. The trek traverses the Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site for its amazing biodiversity and sacred geography. The unique characteristics of these landscapes provide a trek that feels different from any of the other popular local treks in Sikkim, and the natural and social history of the act of trekking alone is engrossing. Trekkers have been travelling this same path and trail to Dzongri for so many generations, from the early incantations of the Tibetan Buddhist monks, yak herders and the ethnic tribes indigenous to the land, the Lepchas and Bhutias, in the Sacred Kanchenjunga region of Sikkim, which is treated with utmost respect by the people of Sikkim.Nearby Places of Dzongri TrekYuksom: Yuksom is the starting point for the trek and the 'Gateway to Kanchenjunga', and is close to the Dubdi Monastery, and the Norbugang Coronation Throne, which is the place of Sikkim’s first Chogyal’s coronation.Tshoka: A delightful Tibetan refugee settlement on the route to Dzongri. Expect some photo opportunities at Mt. Pandim, as well as the rhododendrons that provide a vibrant line along the trail, on the long walk to Dzongri.Kanchenjunga National Park, A UNESCO World Heritage Site, has the richest biodiversity: red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan birds, etc..Goechala Viewpoint (optional extension): If you continue your trek beyond Dzongri, you'll reach Goechala, a mountain pass and the closest view of Mt. Kanchenjunga (16,200 ft). Requires an additional 4–5 days.Best Time to Visit Dzongri TrekSpring (April to May): Rhododendrons blooming, clear views of snow-covered peaks, perfect for photographyAutumn (September to November): Clear mountain views, stable weather and golden light for landscape photography. The best time for viewing the summit of Kanchenjunga, Pandim and Kabru.Monsoon (June - early September): Can be slippery trails with landslides and leeches.Winter (December - February): A very cold winter with trails completely snowed in and limited access.How to Visit Dzongri TrekBy Airport: The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport (PYG) near Gangtok, or Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal. From there, hire a taxi to Yuksom (a 5–7 hour drive from Gangtok or Bagdogra).By Train: Nearest station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), from NJP hire a taxi or shared vehicle to Yuksom (7–8 hours estimate).By Road: Yuksom is accessible by road from Gangtok, Pelling, Kalimpong and Darjeeling. Roads are scenic, but winding, and thus, plan on a full day of travelling.7. Brahmatal Trek (Uttarakhand)The Brahmatal Trek is a beautiful winter trek in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, The trek provides a combination of snow-filled landscapes, dense oaks and stunning views of Himalayan peaks such as Trishul, Nanda Ghunti and Mount Chaukhamba. The trek takes you to an elevation of 12,250 feet (3,735 meters) to the mythical Brahmatal Lake, which is where Lord Brahma is said to have meditated. It is a trek that is one of a handful in India that you can complete at the peak of winter with a large amount of snow. It is popular among trekkers, as well as photographers. Brahmatal itself holds significance in Hindu mythology. it is said that the frozen lake is where Lord Brahma, the creator in the trinity, once meditated, and the trek itself passes through historic forests and lesser-known Himalayan villages, which are also significant in local mythologies. This trek over time has gradually become more popular for its relatively easy difficulty, reliability of winter snow and views from the summit, etc.History of Brahmatal TrekBrahmatal is important in Hindu mythology. It is said that Lord Brahma, the creator of the Hindu trinity, had meditated at this lake, which is frozen in winter. The trek takes you past old forests and ancient Himalayan villages, some of which hold historical significance in the local stories. The trail recently became popular in the market because of less distance/less difficulty, colourful snow during the winter, and big summit views. Brahmatal itself holds significance in Hindu mythology. it is said that the frozen lake is where Lord Brahma, the creator in the trinity, once meditated, and the trek itself passes through historic forests and lesser-known Himalayan villages, which are also significant in local mythologies.Nearby Places to Visit: Brahmatal TrekLohajungseveral: The base village for several treks (including Roopkund); Lohajung is the centre of trekking in this area, but is also said to be the place where Goddess Parvati fought with some demonsBekaltal: An alpine lake where you can search for wild flowers; it is supposed to be beautiful with oak trees and rhododendron trees; it may be frozen in winterAjan Top / Brahmatal Top: Brahmatal pitch; some of the best views of Mt. Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Neelkanth, huge views of the Roopkund ridgesWan Village: Typical of other traditional Himalayan villages; beautiful, great views, and the base village for treks (Roopkund).Best Time to Visit Brahmatal TrekWinter (December to March): Snow-covered trails, frozen lakes, clear views of the Himalayan peaks, starts to freeze and a good option for first-time snow trekkersSpring (April – May): melting snow, blooming rhododendrons, warm temperatures, colours of the forestsMonsoon (June – August): slippery trails, landslides are probablePost-monsoon (September–November): clear but no snow, decent time if you want dry trailsHow to make it to the Brahmatal TrekBy Airport: Nearest airport: Pantnagar Airport (PGH), approx 230 km from Lohajung, you can alternatively have a flight to Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport, then share a cab with others to Lohajung via Rishikesh or KaranprayagBy Train: Nearest station: Kathgodam Railway Station. From Kathgodam, take a cab or a bus to Lohajung (Approx. 9–10 hrs)By Road: Buses and shared jeeps from Kathgodam, Rishikesh or Dehradun to Lohajung. Roads are winding, so expect to spend a whole day travelling.8. Phulara Ridge Trek (Uttarakhand)Trekking Phulara Ridge is one of the most unique and scenic treks in Uttarakhand. It has a rare ridge walk of more than 4 km at approximately 12127 ft (3696 m) high. Phulara is not like most treks, where trekkers either summit a peak or cross a pass. Phulara is almost a ridgeline walk with a 360° panorama - uninterrupted and stunning views of snow-capped mountains, deep valleys and meadows. The trek is situated in the Govind Pashu Vihar wildlife sanctuary, and it is an excellent kaleidoscope of alpine forest, wildflowers, meadows (Bugyals) and bird life that will cater to both adventure seekers and nature lovers.History of Phulara Ridge TrekDefine the word 'Phulara', it means 'abundance of flowers’ and has been known to the area shepherds for decades, but only recently was it discovered by trekkers and referred to as a hidden gem. Phulara is situated in the same region as the Kedarkantha trek, but so offbeat that it is often less travelled and uncrowded. The best advice for potential trekkers is to get out and have the experience for yourself. The trek has a respectable population of wildlife animals with a wide variety of birds, as it is within the Govind National Park, where efforts were made to conserve endangered animals such as Musk Deer and Himalayan Monal.Nearby Places to Visit: Phulara Ridge TrekSankri: This is a pretty village and base camp for multiple treks, including Kedarkantha, Har Ki Dun, and Bali Pass.Juda Ka Talab: A small alpine lake on the nearby Kedarkantha trail. It can be visited as a day hike from Sankri.Pushtara Meadows: Large alpine meadows near Phulara Ridge, filled with wildflowers and perfect for camping.Taluka & Osla Villages: Close to traditional Himalayan villages, which offer a real cultural experience and architectural heritage.Best Time to Visit Phulara Ridge TrekSpring & Summer (May - June): Meadows are filled with blooming wildflowers. Clear skies coupled with warm, mild weather. Ideal for bird watching and photography.Post-monsoon & autumn (September - October): Crystal clear views of the mountains. Golden meadows, with great lighting and clouds. Average temperatures. A nice escape from the crowds of summer.Monsoon (July-August): The path is slippery and prone to landslides.Winter (Nov-April): Snow can make the ridge walk treacherous and largely inaccessible.How to Visit Phulara Ridge TrekBy Airport: The nearest large airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (210 km from Sankri). Take a cab/shared vehicle from Dehradun to Sankri (approximately 8 - 9 hours).By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun, trains from Delhi overnight; drive from Dehradun to Sankri.By Road: Buses and shared cabs are available from Dehradun to Sankri, and the road trip is very scenic (via Purola, Mori).Why Book with escape2exploreWhen exploring Himalayan Treks and beyond, escape2explore stands out as a trusted name in adventure and experiential travel. Here’s why hundreds of travellers choose us for their getaways:Trusted, Well-Reviewed Local Operator: escape2explore has gained the trust of thousands of content tourists all over India. With persistent positive feedback and an unblemished reputation for delivering quality experiences, we assure you that your experience will be hassle-free, memorable, and value-packed. Our insider local knowledge guarantees that you will always be in safe hands.Seasoned Guides: Our trips are led by friendly, trained, and professional guides who are passionate about the outdoors and your safety. Whether it's a beach trek, a cultural tour, or a spiritual walk through temples, our team knows the terrain, the stories, and how to make each moment count.Safe & Curated Itineraries: Your safety is our number one priority. Our tour packages are thoughtfully crafted with safety measures, researched accommodations, and easy travel arrangements. We take care of the details so you can have the experience hassle-free and worry-free.Unique Experience That You Won't Find Anywhere Else: With escape2explore, you discover more than the tourist attractions. We go off the beaten track with hidden beaches, unusual treks, offbeat cultural destinations, and true interactions.