10-must-do-himalayan-trek
There’s something about the Himalayas not just being the world’s highest mountain range that makes time slow down in a magical way. The crunch of snow under your boots for the first time, that pervasive scent of pine rolling through the air, a mountain range that glimmers gold during sunrise — all seems as if from another planet. As the year slips away, these trails provide something more than adventure — they offer perspective and peace, as well as stories to bring home.
If you’ve been fantasizing about snow-topped peaks and peaceful forest paths, here’s your sign. Here are 10 must do Himalayan treks that should be on everyone’s bucket list before the year ends.
Brahmatal Trek– Where the Meadows meets the Sky
If you have always longed to walk on trails covered in snow amidst all things quiet, Brahmatal Trek in Uttarakhand is what you've been looking for. This is a trek that feels like walking through a winter fairytale — the trees along forest paths are smothered with snow, lakes are turned into glassy mirrors, and the air smells crisp and fresh.
As you gain altitude, let the jaw-dropping views of Mount Trishul and Nanda Ghunti keep you going. The best part? You will have a rare, otherworldly ridge walk above the clouds where every step feels like you’re on the top of the world. The silence of the frozen Brahmatal Lake beneath the starry night sky is what makes this trek memorable.
Kedarkantha Trek– The Perfect Winter Wonderland!
If there’s one trek that has always stolen the heart of Indian trekkers, it’s Kedarkantha Trek. It's known as the “Queen of Winter Treks” – with a perfect balance of beauty and adventure.
The path passes through dense pine forest, where quaint wooden huts and snow cover the meadows. As you trek, the view opens up and you get a glance of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch and Black Peak ranges. What really sets this trek apart is the summit climb — it’s nothing short of magical to be standing on top of Kedarkantha at dawn, watching the mountains bath in golden light.
Nights under the starry sky and snow underfoot — those are moments you never forget.
Chopta–Chandrashila Trek– The Spiritual Adventure
The Chopta–Chandrashila has the perfect combination of nature and religion The trek begins at the small village of Chopta, a place often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India.”
Further up still is Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple anywhere in the world; it’s cloaked in mist and snow. The final segment to Chandrashila Peak provides a breathtaking, 360-degree view of some of the Himalayas’ most famous summits — Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba and Kedar Dome.
This trek is not only about conquering the summit —it’s about finding a peace that can only be felt when encircled by ancient mountains and sacred silence.
Dayara Bugyal Trek-The other side of Meadows of gold
For first time trekkers or for those looking to escape to peace and silence in the Himalayas, Dayara Bugyal is a find you can’t afford to miss. The word ‘Bugyal’ is commonly used for high altitude meadows in the Uttarakhand Himalayas. It comes alive with riot of colours particularly during the months of August and September as millions of flowers bloom here.
The walk begins through oak and rhododendron woodland, then emerges on to a vast plain where the sky appears to go on forever. The views of the Gangotri range and peaks like Srikanth and Jaonli are stunning in all directions.
This is the sort of journey where you can take your time, rest yourself down on a snowfield and just be quiet. It’s simple, comforting and soul-soothing — great for families and novices.
Kuari Pass Trek- A trail once walked by the British
The Kuari Pass Trek, aka the Curzon trail, sticks your foot right in history mixed- up with adventure. This road was first opened by Lord Curzon in the British Period and it still maintains the old world appeal.
You’ll trek through tightly packed oak forests, high alpine meadows like Khulara and isolated mountain villages where time feels like it’s standing still. The main attractions are Nanda Devi Dronagiri and above all, Kamet.
This trek provides you a real taste of the wilderness of the Himalayas and without being too hard. The changing landscapes are enough to keep you hooked at every turn.
Pangarchulla Trek– As Real as it gets!
If you are an adrenaline junkie and would not mind pushing your limits, Pangarchulla trek provides the kind of thrill that will last for the rest of your life. It’s not a stroll in the park — the last mile demands will and legs — but the reward is immeasurable.
The trail cuts through snow blanketed meadows, rocky ridges and pine forests before opening up to stunning views of Hathi Parvat, Nanda Devi and Dronagiri. Once atop the Pangarchulla summit, the myriad peaks encircle you, and give a high that only genuine adventure could.
Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek– The Meadow of Ali and Bedni
There are few treks as beautiful as Ali and Bedni Bugyal, which is among or perhaps is the finest alpine meadow anywhere in India. In the winter, they turn into giant blankets of white and continue on as far as the eyes can see.
What makes this trek special is the contrast: one minute you’re walking through a dark forest and the next you step out into a world of open snowfields with Trishul and Nanda Ghunti shining in the distance. The peace is unparalleled here — it feels like nature’s own meditation retreat.
Kareri Lake trek
Close to Dharamshala is the little-known Kareri Lake – a great getaway for those seeking a quick Himalayan escape that’s easy on the eyes. The trek leads through pretty Himachali villages, thick pine forest and includes crossings of wooden bridges over sparkling streams.
The highlight of the trek is Kareri Lake, a glacial lake that freezes in winter and mirrors the snow-capped peaks in its surroundings. The serenity of the area also makes it ideal for photography, meditation or just sitting in peace by the water.
Indrahar Pass Trek– The Trail of Two Worlds
The Indrahar Pass Trek beginning from McLeodganj is an experience that unfolds lush valleys to rocky mountain passes in just a few days. It’s a spectacular trip that has a little bit of everything — forest trails, ridge climbs, and some stunning views.
For the closer you come to the pass, all along both these mountain ranges are covered with white snow, and nothing can possibly be more truly magnificent than a sight of those two ranges — they are so perfectly beautiful, so calm, and so majestic! You will also encounter a blend of Himachali and Tibetan culture on the journey, which adds both an element of cultural richness to the natural majesty.
A must-do for those who like a bit of challenge and charm is Indrahar Pass.
Kheerganga Trek– Nature’s Own Hot Spring
Last but not the least - Kheerganga Trek is one of the most famous short treks in Himachal Pradesh, particularly among youth. The hike leads through thick pine trunks, waterfalls cascading down rocks and small log bridges — at every turn there’s a postcard perfect view.
At the top are the fabled natural hot springs, buried between snow-covered mountains. There’s nothing like sitting in warm water with views of ice-encrusted peaks. There’s a sense of relaxation in the air here — part spirituality, and all mountain charm.
Final Thoughts – The Call of the Mountains
Each of these Himalayan treks has its own tale, mood and magic. From the still snow fields of Brahmatal to the spiritual calm that comes at Chopta, from one adventure at Pangarchulla to an experience of relaxation in Kheerganga — each trail is a journey within.
With the year winding down, there’s yet time to hoist the backpack and lace up the trekking shoes to head out for mountain adventures. Because, sometimes, the best way to ring in the new year isn’t at a party — but with a sunrise over snow-capped peaks.
Soniya
Sonia heads the content team at Trekyaari, where she leads the creation of informative and inspiring content. With an eye for detail and a love for storytelling. Currently pursuing her Bachelor’s in Business Administration (BBA), Sonia also holds a diploma in Digital Marketing. Her journey into travel writing stems from her passion for exploration — she loves travelling, meeting new people, and learning from diverse experiences.