The ancient mountain ranges, Himalayas have always been a source of fairy tales, mythological stories, myths and fantasies. With time, the magnificent Himalayan ranges have attracted travelers from across the globe- who have trekked and hiked the most difficult paths to unravel the mysteries of this myth. Here is the list of some offbeat Himalayan Treks you need to go in 2017.
Prashar Lake Trek
Located in the enchanting Kullu Valley and amidst the mighty Himalayan range, the Prashar Lake looks straight out of a fantasy novel. The view is surreal at the lake point and only gets better with height. Do try this for a weekend outing from Delhi or other nearby places.
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Altitude: 9,000 feet
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Grade: Easy
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Period: 2 days
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Best time to visit: Throughout the year except monsoon months
Nag Tibba Trek
Loosely translated into Serpent’s Peak, this circular trek provides breathtaking views of the Bandarpoonch Peak, Kedarnath Peak, Chanabag and many other magnificent peaks and valleys. Located quite close to Mussoorie, the route goes through thick Deodar tree forests and has amazing camping places to make your trek extra enjoyable.
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Altitude: 10,000 feet
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Grade: Moderate
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Period: 2-3 days
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Best time to visit: April end to October; January to March for a trek in snow
Chopta Tungnath Trek
The Tungnath Temple is the highest Shiva temple in the world and of tremendous importance to Hindus. The route is said to provide one of the most scenic views possible of the Kedarnath Peak and Nanda Devi. The view is especially spectacular during the summer months. The climb is relatively simple and perfect for beginners, who want to go ahead and tame higher summits in the future.
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Altitude: 12,073 feet
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Grade: Easy
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Period: 5 days
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Best time to visit: February to October
Hampta Pass Trek
The Hampta Pass is the best trail possible to kick off your trekking adventures. This well known trekking place in India is perfect for beginners and has views that will leave you mesmerized for the duration of the trip. The inclination is gradual and the route consists of green meadows, glacial valleys and quite a lot of snow. Only downside is that you might encounter a lot of people while trekking on the route.
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Altitude: 14,100 feet
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Grade: Moderate
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Period: 5 days
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Best time to visit: May to October
Malana-Chandrakhani Pass Trek
Though this trek is not for the faint-hearted, nevertheless the end result of the trek will make your heart skip quite a few beats! The Malana-Chandrakhani Pass trek is tough and not exactly for first-time trekkers. People who have had some trekking experience in the past are the ones who opt to go for this one, and they are rewarded amply by the adrenaline pumping trails, majestic views and life-lasting memories.
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Altitude: 11,811 feet
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Grade: Difficult
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Period: 5 days
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Best time to visit: Mid-May to November
Sar Pass Trek
Kasol itself has become a haven for trekkers, backpackers and adventure hungry hikers. The trek from Kasol to the frozen lake Sar is a splendid myriad of valleys, mountains and meadows. There are a lot of camping spots to spend the nights under the starry sky so as to make the most out of your trek.
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Altitude: 13,779 feet
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Grade: Moderate
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Period: 5 days
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Best time to visit: May to June end; September to November
Borasu Pass Trek
This highly adventurous trek is one that will make you use up all the skills and gears available in your arsenal. The route is full of all possible kinds of landscapes that will make you switch from shoes to crampons and force you to use your wits and experience over the course of the journey. The beauty of this trek is that it will make you view the Marinda Lake, Har Ki Dun Valley and the lush green, flowery meadows.
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Altitude: 17,880 feet
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Grade: Difficult
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Period: 6 days
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Best time to visit: June; September to October
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
The Rupin Pass is not everybody’s cup of tea and requires some prior trekking experience before mounting an attempt here. The route is beautiful beyond words with its flowery and lush green meadows, pristine rivers, challenging climbs and snowy, mountainous landscape.
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Altitude: 15,250 feet
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Grade: Moderately Difficult
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Period: 9 days
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Best time to visit: May (last week) to June end; Mid September to October end
Markha Valley Trek
The best way to explore the gorgeous Markha Valley is probably by taking a trek through two of the highest passes in the world Kongmaru La and Gandala La passes. The valley is enchantingly beautiful with its extensive landscape, ravines and rivers. Be careful though as the trek is a little difficult in its higher altitude reaches.
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Altitude: 17,060 feet
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Grade: Moderately Difficult
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Period: 9 days
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Best time to visit: June to September
Kinner Kailash Trek
This scenic trek is sure to satiate the spiritual and adventure-seeking trekker inside you. Apart from being linked to various mythological stories, the trail has a huge lingam of Lord Shiva that changes its color throughout the day. The trek also provides the climbers with an astounding view of the Himalayan ranges and Zanskar Valley. You can mix and match your route according to the duration you want to spend at the trek and thus enjoy it the way you would like to.
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Altitude: 17,194 feet
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Grade: Difficult
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Period: 10-15 days
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Best time to visit: June to September
Sudarshan Parbat Trek
The Sudarshan Parbat Trek is a fabulous yet relatively lesser heard of trek in the Uttarakhand region. It originates from Gangotri and heads towards Gaumukh, while offering splendid views of the Himalayan ranges and its many, mighty peaks. The path also offers an astounding view of the many glaciers in the area.
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Altitude: 21,348 feet
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Grade: Moderate
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Period: 11-15 days
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Best time to visit: May to June; September to October
Khatling Glacier Trek
The Khatling Glacier is one glacier that has to be visited to actually comprehend its sheer size and beauty. While undoubtedly the glacier is a delight for sore eyes, the path which leads to the final destination is also not less than celestial! The whole route provides you with panoramic views of green meadows, forests, snowy mountains and of course… more glaciers!
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Altitude: 13,779 feet
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Grade: Moderate
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Period: 12-15 days
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Best time to visit: May to October
