The hills come alive during the monsoons. The forests come to life and so does the flora and fauna. Though it is risky to trek during the monsoons, but there are many beauties to be discovered in the Himalayas which only come to their own in rains. Here are some of the most awe-inspiring monsoon treks in India which you must undertake.
1) Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
This lovely Valley of flowers trek comes alive during the months of July to September. Countless exotic flowers fill the valley, making it one of the most picturesque places in the world. Now a UNESCO heritage site, this is the second core zone in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. The difficulty level of this trek is moderate. You can also go to Hemkund Sahib, which is one of the most pristine Sikh sites in India.
Duration: 7 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation: 3858 m/12654 feet
2) Sinhagad Trek, Pune:
A popular but slightly difficult monsoon treks near Pune, the trek to the 17th Century Sinhagad fort is pretty popular. This popular picnic spot is just 30 km away from Pune. Monsoon is the best time to do this trek as the views from the fort are fantastic during this time. This fort is the embodiment of valour during Sinhanad Battle. You must see the sunset views from here.
Duration: 1 day
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation: 4320 feet
3) Hampta Pass Trek, Himachal Pradesh:
This trek is between the Kullu and Lahaul valley, and is an ideal trek for beginners as well. This trail begins from the hill station of Manali and continues through paths which have glaciers, forests, grasslands and of course the mighty Himalayas. You will also cross Jobra, which has the most picturesque meadows you will ever see. Bright blue skies, beautiful green valley and horses grazing, it’s a sight worth remembering. The dramatic scenery changes during this trek is one of the best things about this monsoon trek.
Duration: 4-5 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Altitude: 14,100 feet
4) Roopkund Trek, Uttarakhand:
This is one of the most popular monsoon treks of all. Do this trek for the stunning scenery. Deep forests, miles of meadows, snow and much more; this trek is super adventurous. In this trek you will climb from 8,000 ft to 16,000 ft in four days. This lake is also known as the Skeleton lake or the Mystery Lake, because this lake has several human skeletons around it. Of course there are many folklores attached to this, but no one knows the truth behind them. You will also be able to spot the Mt. Trishul from this trek. Be ready to brave snow storms during this trek too.
Duration: 9 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Elevation: 4463 m /14638 feet
5) Zanskar Valley Trek, Himachal Pradesh:
This is for the real adventure seekers as its one of the most difficult treks to undertake. This trek gives a new definition to adventure,a great monsoon treks in India. Trekkers pass small hamlets, wild canyons and lovely monasteries during this trek. The trek begins from Darcha, covering Palahmo, Zanskar Sumdo, Chumik Nakpo, Lakhang via Shingo Pass, Kargil, Phutkal, Purni, Pipula, Raru and finally Padum.
Duration: 16 to 28days
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Elevation: 11,500 to 23,000 feet
6) Dzongri Trek, Sikkim:
This trek will take you deep inside the Kanchenjunga range through dense forest trails, making it one of the best monsoon treks in India. The view of the Kanchenjunga range, Mt. Pandim and Mt. Kabru from Dzongri is unmatched. Dzongri trek spans from Yuksom to Dzongri and also includes a walk on the Goecha La, while covering places like Phedang and Bakkhim. During the rains, the forests look greener and the sights are unbelievable. It’s truly a paradise for trekkers!
Duration: 9 days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Elevation: 4020 m
7) Nanda Devi Sanctuary Trek, Uttarakhand:
Recognised as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, Nanda Devi Park is beautiful. This trail will also take you through a glacial basin. The valley formed by glacial erosion is characterized by a congregation of flower beds and several endangered species of animals and plants. You may also be able to sight musk deer, black bear and blue sheep and the occasional snow leopard. The beauty of the terrain is punctuated with the heavenly presence of rhododendron, birch and juniper forests. This is one of the best monsoon treks in India
Duration: 10 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Altitude: 4250 m/13940 feet
So, start planning for your monsoon treks now, so that you’re fit and ready to conquer the mighty Himalayas in a couple of months! Have you done any of these treks before? Let us know in the comments section below! Tell us more about monsoon treks in India
