Who doesn’t like the fragrance that the earth releases with the first rainfall? The mesmerizing scent fills your nostrils and lungs, and your nature-loving soul craves more of it. No expensive fragrance can match the subtle divine scent that Mother Nature produces. Monsoon in the Himalayas is even more enchanting.
Travellers seek a great adventure by joining the best monsoon treks in the Himalayas. Almost all states of India have more or less options for monsoon treks, and they all are unique in themselves. Each monsoon trek has its own stunning beauty and mesmerizing fragrance to offer.
Here is a list of the best monsoon treks in India that you can embark on this monsoon season
1) Valley of Flowers Trek
The Valley of Flowers monsoon trek is one of the most famous and beautiful monsoon treks in Uttrakhand. the vivid species of flora and fauna create a scenery that offers charming beauty and attracts many trekkers from around the globe. the Valley of Flowers Trek offers magnificent views of forests, rivers and waterfalls. Moreover, this trek offers the sight of rare flowers like Brahma Kamal (Saussurea obvallata) and Himalayan Blue Poppy (Meconopsis betonicifolia)
Read more about the Beauty of Valley of Flowers by clicking here.
2) Nag Tibba Trek
Nag Tibba is one of the short monsoon treks in Uttarakhand. It starts from a small village named Pantwari located in the Tehri Garhwal District of Uttarakhand State. Nag Tibba in monsoon offers a lush green landscape with clouds drifting below as you ascend. During the rainy season, the summit offers an experience of fresh, crisp air, and breathtaking greenery. However, hiking during or after rain poses challenges as the trails might feature red soil, known to be slippery during both ascent and descent.
3) Chenap Valley Trek
Chenap Valley Trek is a lesser-known monsoon trek in India starting from the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand state. Unlike famous monsoon treks like Valley of Flowers and Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, this trek, due to its being less popular, offers pleasant solitude and divinely beautiful views of the valley. With the great combination of clouds and open sky, you may get to see a magnificent sunrise and sunset view with the sky full of hues of different colours. Chenap Valley Trek can be considered one of the best offbeat treks in India.
4) Chopta Chandrashila Trek
Chopta Chandrashila Trek is one of the most beautiful monsoon treks in India. Tunganath Trek is a sacred spiritual trek. This trek is known for its scenic beauty in all seasons. It passes through some beautiful forests and offers excellent views of snow-clad peaks. Chandrashila is famous for its breathtaking 360-degree view of the Himalayan ranges.
5) Bhadraj Temple Trek
Located near Mussoorie, the Bhadraj temple trek is one of the short treks of Uttarakhand. It is a one-day hike. You can start the trek from the Library End in Mussorie and after a couple of hours of hiking, you will reach to your destination. Bhadraj Trek offers spectacular views of the mountain range. Grab the opportunity to reach on the summit by sunset.
6) George Evererst Peak, Mussoorie
We begin the day hike a kilometre short of the George Everest peak and make our way to the top. The under 30-minute hike brings us to the top of the hill and we can get a good view of the house. We descend down the hill and take the course leading towards the house. After visiting the house we continue further and find our way across scattered rural settlements and towards the reserved forest area of Mussoorie, known as Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, which we enter right after crossing the road leading to Cloud’s End, another popular motorable viewpoint for visitors in Mussoorie.
7) Devban Trek
Devban is one of the lesser-known destinations of Uttarakhand. It is part of a reserved forest in the Kanasar forest range bordering Himachal Pradesh. It has a beautiful forest rest house located at an altitude of 2865m built-in 1963. The forests are typically broadleaved Oak, coniferous Pine, Fir, and Devdhar as well as thorny shrubs; especially near the rocky outcrops. The nearest roadhead is Chakrata, 16 km away. Chakrata is an old British cantonment town. The old stone houses with towering chimneys take you back to the British era. Most of Chakrata is inaccessible due to army restrictions.
8) Dayara Bugyal Trek
Dayara Bugyal-Stairway to Heaven is a beautiful alpine meadow situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. The trek to Dayara Bugyal is popular among trekkers and nature enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Dayara Bugyal is a meadow trek that can be done in either 3 days or 5 days depending on the route that you follow. The Dayara Bugyal Trek routes offer you two starting points to choose from. The trek starts either from Raithal or Barsu and often is done in a loop with trekkers returning to the same base camp they start the trek from, i.e. Raithal or Barsu.
Apart from these, you can also embark on the Har ki Dun Trek in the monsoon. However, the trek becomes slippery during the monsoon season. That’s why we don’t schedule fixed departures for the Har ki Dun Trek during the monsoons.
1) Hampta Pass Trek
Hampta Pass trek has been getting more popular in the last three years. This trek starts from Manali and concludes near the beautiful Chandratal Lake. Hampta Pass offers spectacular views, from maple forests to meadows, and from snow-covered landscapes to the naked mountains of remote Lahaul. The altitude of the Hamta Pass trek makes it a challenging adventure. If you want to go for the Hampta Pass Trek, the monsoon can be considered the best time for this trek. However, the trek was not operable in the year 2023 because of landslides in Himachal Pradesh.
2) Sar Pass Trek
Sar is a frozen lake in Himachal Pradesh, and a trek to this beautiful place is an unforgettable experience. The Sar Pass trek begins in Kasol and will take you through the lush forests of the Parvati Valley, leading you to Grahan Valley. Camping under the infinite stars here is a mesmerizing experience. Sar Pass is also a beautiful monsoon trek.
3) Kalihani Pass Trek
The Kalihani Pass is part of the well-known Bara Bhangal trail. Being close to the thriving town of Manali, the trek offers excellent campsites along with a unique trail that will take you through lush meadows, moraines, snow-laden patches, and a wide variety of wildflowers along the way. You’ll also find stunning views of Mt. Indrasan and Mt. Deo Tibba. The Khanpara Tibba on the way will give you a beautiful view of the Dhauladhar range and the revered elliptical Rani Sui Lake.
4) Pin Bhaba Pass Trek
Pin Bhaba Pass Trek, is a high-altitude mountain pass. It crosses over from Bhaba Valley in Kinnaur Himachal to the magnificent Pin Valley in Spiti. The Pin Bhaba Pass trek has a phenomenal landscape that changes dramatically throughout the trek. The best time to do the Pin Bhaba Pass trek is mentioned below along with the trek distance and altitude of the trek.
5) Pin Parvati Pass Trek
Pin Parvati Pass Trek is one of the longest treks in the state. It goes up to 110 km as the Parvati Pass connects the Spiti and Kullu valley. The trek is known for its unparalleled beauty as it will take you through abundant alpine forests, lush greens, and enchanting waterfalls. You’ll also be greeted with many colourful wildflowers on the way. The contrast of the arid Spiti Valley on one side and lush green surroundings on the other make this a unique experience. Monsoon is considered to be the best time for doing the Pin Parvati Pass trek. The long-distance walks and high altitude make Pin Parvati Trek suitable for experienced trekkers.
6) Bhrigu Lake Trek
Situated at 14,100 ft in Manali, the Bhrigu Lake trek offers thrilling adventures and mesmerizing landscapes. This short Himalayan trek showcases a high-altitude glacial lake, lush meadows, and the ever-changing colours of the lake. With a duration of 4 days, it provides breathtaking views of peaks like Seven Sisters, Deo Tibba, and Indrasan, along with the majestic Pir Panjal ranges. The trek promises an unforgettable experience immersed in the beauty of nature.
7) Kanamo Peak
The Kanamo Peak trek is a thrilling high-altitude adventure nestled in the rugged landscapes of Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India. Beginning in the picturesque village of Kibber, the trail winds through remote plateaus, revealing awe-inspiring views of the Spiti Valley. Trekkers are treated to a stunning sunrise over the Himalayas as they ascend towards the peak. The final push to the summit is a test of endurance, with rocky terrain and, at times, snow-covered paths. However, the panoramic vistas from the top make every step worth the effort. Camping at the Kanamo Base Camp provides an opportunity to soak in the tranquillity of the high-altitude wilderness. The descent back to Kibber is equally scenic, allowing trekkers to relish the beauty of the region.
8) Beas Kund Trek
Beas Kund, a pristine alpine lake situated at 3,700 meters in Himachal Pradesh, serves as the origin of the Beas River. Believed to be the bathing spot of Sage Vyas during his meditation, it offers a captivating trekking experience. This trek passes through some beautiful forests and meadows and there are few patches where you will have to deal with the huge boulders.
9) Sainj Valley Trek
Sainj Valley Trek falls in Himachal Pradesh in the Great Himalayan National Park. This national park due to its uniqueness and diversity is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a small and beautiful hike through forests, villages and meadows. This makes it a perfect family trek.
1) Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
The Kashmir Great Lakes trek, also known as the Great Lakes Kashmir trek, is one of the most sought-after treks in Kashmir. The best time to do the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is during the monsoon months of July, August, and September. This is when the trekking trail is at its best, with snow still present at higher altitudes in July, while the meadows are in full bloom, creating a contrasting landscape. This trek offers stunning views of the alpine lakes of Kashmir.
2) Warwan Valley Trek
Kashmir is considered to be heaven on earth. Its unmatched beauty is due to the innumerable trekking and tourist destinations that fall in Kashmir. The Warwan Valley is one such place that contributes to the beauty of Kashmir. As the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is a famous glacier trek in Uttarakhand, the Warwan Valley Trek is the famous glacier trek of Kashmir. Warwan Valley trek is a moderately difficult level trek.
3) Tarsar Marsar Trek
Set deep in Kashmir, the queen of all lands known to humankind, the Tarsar Marsar trek is a gem among all such trekking experiences. Marsar and Tarsar lakes are magnificent enough to give you the jitters of a different kind, with the famous words of a renowned poet, ‘If there is heaven on earth, it is here in Kashmir.’ This trek takes you to the magnificent Tarsar Lake and Marsar Lake. Tarsar Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Kashmir. Monsoon is the best time for the Tarsar Marsar Trek.
4) Nafran Valley Trek
Nafran Valley is a remote and relatively untouched valley located in the Himalayan region of Kashmir. It’s known for its pristine natural beauty, stunning landscapes, and rugged terrain. situated in a mountainous region, likely in a remote part of the Himalayas. The valley is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. It typically offers panoramic views of towering peaks, lush green meadows, alpine forests, and possibly high-altitude lakes. The trek starts in the pretty Aru village, known for its amazing beauty and different landscapes, making the Nafran Valley Trek a standout in Kashmir. The Nafran Valley trek is one of the most beautiful monsoon treks in India.
5) Gurez Valley Trek
Gurez Valley, also known as Gurais Valley, is a picturesque and remote region located in the northern part of the Indian-administered union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated in the high Himalayan mountains, surrounded by majestic peaks, dense forests, and pristine rivers. The valley is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. During the monsoon, especially in July and August, Gurez Valley displays incredible beauty.
6) Tosa Maidan Trek
Tosa Maidan, nestled in the heart of the Pir Panjal range, is a hidden jewel in the Indian Himalayas. This trek offers a unique blend of natural splendour, cultural richness, and historical significance. The trail leads through diverse terrain, encompassing thickets of pine, oak, and deodar trees, opening up to expansive alpine meadows carpeted with a riot of wildflowers during the summer months; and during the monsoon season, the lush greener on this trek wins everyone’s heart.
7) Tulian Lake Trek
One of the most beautiful alpine lakes of Kashmir, Tulian Lake is an 8-shaped alpine lake. On one side of the lake is the Zanskar range and on the other is the Pir Panjal range, Tulian Lake is surrounded by mountains on all three sides. Tulian Lake Trek is a short trek in Kashmir and is considered to be one of the best monsoon treks in India.
8) Kolahoi Glacier Trek
The Kolahoi Glacier trek is a challenging and awe-inspiring trekking expedition that takes you deep into the pristine and rugged landscapes of the Kashmir Valley in India. It offers breathtaking views of glaciers, alpine meadows, dense forests, and towering mountain peaks The trek offers some of the most spectacular and diverse landscapes in the Kashmir Valley, including lush meadows, dense forests, glacial lakes, and towering peaks. the Kolahoi Glacier, a massive and breathtaking ice field surrounded by rugged mountains. The viewpoint provides a stunning vantage point to witness this natural wonder. The milky white waters of Dudhsar Lake against the backdrop of pristine surroundings make it a captivating spot for trekkers.
9) Bodpathri Lake Trek
The Bodpathri Lake trek in Kashmir adds to the gem of a palace of natural nature amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of the area. Located in the Ganderbal district, this trek takes visitors to a cluster of tranquil alpine lakes, each more enchanting than the last. As one finds the island surrounded by dense pine forests and lush green grasslands, the shimmering waters of these lakes emerge as an ethereal sight in the backdrop of the lakes. The lakes, with their crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains, provide a tranquil sanctuary for trekkers seeking solace in the midst of nature. During the summer months, the journey is punctuated by carpets of wildflowers, adding a burst of colour to an already picturesque route. With its relative solitude and breathtaking landscapes, the Bodpathri Lake Trek stands as a testament to the untouched beauty of Kashmir.
10) Kounsarnag Lake Trek
The Kounsarnag Lake Trek is a thrilling excursion with difficult terrain and stunning views. The optimum time to do this walk is between June and September when the snow has melted and made the trail more accessible. On this thrilling trek, hikers will come across rocky terrain and tranquil lakes, which will give them a feeling of success if they manage to complete the challenging pathways.
11) Sonmarg to Vishansar Trek
The vivid meadows and crystal-clear alpine lakes, notably the lovely Vishansar Lake, are famous features of the Sonmarg Vishansar Trek. This trip provides a breathtaking fusion of tranquillity and natural beauty. It is ideal to visit between June and September, when the meadows are in full bloom and form a vibrant carpet against the skyline of snow-capped mountains.
12) Khilanmarg Valley Trek
Trekkers who complete the short and simple Khilanmarg Valley Trek are rewarded with sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains. In Kashmir, this hike is ideal for a one-day trip during the summer. From June through September, when the meadows are in their full splendour, is the best time to take in the bright scenery and beautiful perspectives. Everyone will remember the journey because of how easy it is and how beautiful the valley is in its natural state.
13) Barafsar Lake Trek
A tranquil and pure alpine lake surrounded by spectacular natural beauty may be reached via the Barafsar Lake Trek. Trekkers may take pleasure in the peace of this isolated area, giving it the ideal getaway from the commotion of daily life. This walk is best done between June and September when the weather is nice and the paths are well-lit.
1) Kang Yatse II Expedition
Kang Yatse II is a prominent peak located in the Markha Valley of Ladakh, India. It is part of the Kang Yatse mountain range and stands at an impressive altitude of approximately 6,250 meters (20,511 feet) above sea level. The Kang Yatse I expedition is more technical and difficult than the Kang Yatse II expedition. Kang Yatse is one of the most beautiful and challenging trekking destinations in Ladakh.
2) Stok Kangri Trek
The Stok Kangri trek is a challenging and exhilarating adventure located in the Ladakh region of northern India. It’s renowned for being one of the highest trekking peaks in the Indian Himalayas, offering trekkers an opportunity to summit a 6,153-meter (20,182-foot) peak. Ladakh culture is one of the most unique ancient cultures of India. The Stok Kangri Trek can also be considered a trek to explore and witness Ladakh lifestyle and culture.
3) Sham Valley Trek
Sham Valley, also known as the “Apricot Valley,” is a picturesque region located in the Ladakh region of northern India. It is situated to the west of the better-known Nubra Valley and lies along the lower reaches of the mighty Indus River. The Sham Valley trek is renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant apricot orchards, and traditional Ladakhi villages. The villages in Sham Valley offer a glimpse into the traditional Ladakhi way of life. Click on the link to learn more about the Sham Valley Trek Itinerary.
4) Spituk Trek
Spituk is a small village in the union territory of Ladakh. The Spituk Trek is a popular trekking route in the Leh region of Ladakh, India. It is a relatively short trek that can be completed in a day, making it accessible to a wide range of trekkers, including beginners. The trek typically begins from Spituk Village, which is located about 8 kilometres from the main town of Leh. One of the main highlights of this trek is the stunning view of Stok Kangri, which is one of the highest peaks in the Stok Range. Trekkers get to experience the dramatic landscapes of Ladakh, including barren mountains, rugged terrain, and beautiful vistas.
5) Markha Valley Trek
Markha Valley trek takes you along the ancient silk route with astounding villages of Markha & Hankar, in a valley now situated in the Hemis National Park. The valley is located to the south of Leh and runs in the North West – South East direction. The trek follows the valley all the way up to Kongmaru La, a high altitude pass with over 17,250 feet in altitude, which connects it to a gorge on the other side, which finally leads you to “Chogdo” village, that connects to the Leh – Keylong highway at Martselang. The village of Markha, which is a highlight of the trek, can be accessed from either side and has other access points too. The Markha Valley trek however starts from the North-western end at Chilling, making inwards towards the Markha Village, proceeding ahead to Kongmaru La.
6) Mentok Kangri Expedition
Located in the cold desert Ladakh, Mentonk Kangri is very near to the magnificent Tso Moriri Lake. Due to its challenging nature, this trek is actually an expedition. This trek is indeed not for beginners.
In this article, we have tried to provide the basic details of monsoon treks starting from Ladakh, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. As mentioned above, all these treks have their unique beauty. Apart from these, the Indian state of Maharashtra has become a famous destination for trekkers looking for the best treks in the monsoon. Maharashtra has many monsoon treks like the Bhimashankar monsoon trek, Kalsubai monsoon trek, and Harishchandragadh monsoon trek, among many others. Among all these, the Kalsubai trek in monsoon has magnificent beauty.
May you all have a safe and wonderful trekking experience in the monsoon season. May the divine fragrance of Mother Nature fill you with peace and tranquillity. Happy trekking!