Best Lesser-Known Himalayan Treks

Among the many reasons that the Himalayas are famous for, the mesmerizing scenic beauty and serenity of the mountains are the foremost. These mountains provide ample opportunities for trekking and hiking, and a significant number of trekkers and mountaineers visit these treks every year. However, because of the huge popularity of these treks, they are often overcrowded and prevent nature lovers from enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the mountains in solitude. This article gives a brief introduction to some of the lesser known Himalayan treks one can visit to relish the natural beauty of one of the most famous mountain ranges in the world.

Nag Tibba Weekend Trek, Uttarakhand

Duration: 1-2 days.

Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate.

With an altitude of about 3,022 metres, the Nag Tibba peak is one of the highest mountain peaks. A perfect weekend trek, the Nag Tibba trek can be visited by both amateur and professional trekkers. Except for a few steep ascents, this trek is an easy one owing to the relatively gradual elevation. The Nag Tibba trek will take one through several lush green valleys and open meadows, forests of pine and oak, along with panoramic views to some famous Garhwal Himalayan mountains like the Bandarpunch peak, the Gangotri peaks, and the Kedarnath peak. Another special feature of this trek is that it can be visited during both summers and winters.

Indrahar Pass Trek, Himachal Pradesh

Duration: 10 days.

Difficulty level: Moderate to Difficult.

Set at an altitude of about 4,342 metres in the Dhauladhar mountains, Indrahar pass is a high mountain pass which acts as a border between the Kangra and Chamba districts of Himachal Pradesh. Best known for its stunning views of the snow laden Dhauladhar mountains along with the lush green Kangra and Chamba valleys, and forests of pine, oak and deodar, the Indrahar pass trek is growing increasingly popular among trekkers and mountaineers. A moderately difficult trek, the trek will lead one through some narrow and steep terrains. The adverse weather conditions at such a high altitude pose yet another challenge. Despite the difficulties, the Indrahar pass trek is an absolute delight for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The trek can be ideally visited during the months of May to October. It is generally advised to not visit this trek during the monsoons due to the slippery roads and frequent landslides.

Brahmatal Trek, Uttarakhand

Duration: 6 days.

Difficulty level: Moderate.

Brahmatal is an alpine freshwater lake lying at an altitude of about 3,400 metres, which mostly remains frozen during the winters. A classic winter trek, the Brahmatal trek will lead one through numerous valleys and open meadows, forests of oak and rhododendron, stream and waterfalls along with some panoramic views of some famous Garhwal Himalayan peaks, like Mount Trishul and Mount Nanda Ghunti. The trek is distributed along different routes, and the ascent is relatively gradual apart from a few steep terrains.

Dayara Bugyal Trek, Uttarakhand

Duration: 4-5 days.

Difficulty level: Easy.

A beautiful alpine meadow at an elevation of about 3,639 metres in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Dayara Bugyal is growing as quite a popular trekking destination. Best known for its rare and exotic flora and fauna, the Dayara Bugyal trek will take one through lush green valleys and meadows, thick forests of oak and rhododendron, along with the magnificent Garhwal mountains in the backdrop. An ideal trek for both beginner as well as experienced trekkers, the Dayara Bugyal trek is no less than a paradise for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts, owing to the rich natural biodiversity of the region. It is most suitable to visit this trek during the months of May to November, but one can also visit the trek during winters to witness a ravishing view of the mountains and valleys covered in snow.

Rupin Pass Trek, Uttarakhand

Duration: 8 days.

Difficulty level: Moderate to Difficult.

Located at an altitude of about 4,650 metres, the Rupin Pass in Uttarakhand connects Dhaula in Uttarakhand to Sangla in Himachal Pradesh. A mesmerizing trek along the Rupin river valley, the Rupin pass trek is best known for its jaw dropping views of the mountains and valleys, along with the rapidly changing landscapes. The trail will lead through the lush green mountain valleys and meadows, thick forests of fir, oak and rhododendron, snow bridges, streams, waterfalls and glaciers along with the snow capped Dhauladhar mountains in the skyline. The trek also offers panoramic views to some famous mountain peaks, like the Kinner Kailash. A moderately difficult trek owing to the narrow and steep ascents along with the adverse climate, this trek requires some level of physical endurance and relevant skills. It is mostly suitable to visit the Rupin pass trek during the months of May to September.