Uttarakhand is known for its scenic beauty, and is home to some of the most famous mountains in the country, including the second highest peak in India- Mount Nanda Devi. A major part of the state lies in the Garhwal Himalayas, and thus is very popular among trekkers and mountaineers. This article provides a glimpse of some of the most famous treks in the state.
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Kedarkantha trek:
Duration: 6 days.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
Kedarkantha is a mountain peak lying in the Garhwal Himalayas with an altitude of about 4,100 metres. The Kedarkantha is one of the most famous treks in the state, owing to its accessibility for both beginners and expert trekkers, and gradual elevation. The summit is best known for its spectacular views of the mountain peaks in the Garhwal Himalayan range, which include the Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Bleak Peak and Ranglana in the Yamunotri and Gangotri ranges. The peak offers a magnificent view of a total of 13 Himalayan mountain peaks. Walking through the beautiful valleys and forests makes tis trek all the way more memorable. The ideal time to visit this trek is during the months of December to april, as one can get a ravishing view of the mountains covered in snow.
Hark ki Dun trek:
Duration: 7 days.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Har ki Dun, a cradle-shaped valley in the Uttarkashi district in the Garhwal Himalayas, lies at an altitude of 3,566 metres and surrounded by snow covered mountain peaks and alpine vegetation. The Hark i Dun trek offers stunning views of the mountain valleys and forests, with some famous mountain peaks in the backdrop, which include the Swargarohini group of peaks, Black Peak, Bandarpoonch etc. It will also lead one through some of the most isolated and remote villages in the lap of the mountains. A quite popular trek among trekkers and mountaineers, this trek can be visited both during the summers and winters.
Kuari Pass trek:
Duration: 6 days.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
A high altitude mountain pass, the Kuari pass is situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 4,265 metres. Also known as Lord Curzon’s trail, the Kuari pass trek is quite popular among trekkers and mountaineers, owing to the breathtaking views it offers. It provides one of the closest views of Mount Nanda Devi. One can also get glimpses of some other famous mountain peaks which include Mount Trishul, Kamet, Dronagiri, Chaukhamba etc. A moderate trek in terms of difficulty, the Kuari pass requires some level of physical strength and endurance. Yet, it is one of the most sought- after treks, especially during winters.
Dodital trek:
Duration: 7-8 days.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
Situated at an altitude of 3,024 metres, Dodital is a freshwater lake in the Uttarkashi district, and the origin of the Assi Ganga river which joins the Bhagirathi river in Gangotri. Considered to be one of the most beautiful treks in Uttarakhand, the Dodital trek is quite popular among nature lovers and mountaineers. The trek takes one through the valleys filled with wildflowers, streams and alpine forests. An ideal winter trek, the Dodital trek is known for its serenity of the mountains and the picturesque valleys.
Nag Tibba Weekend trek:
Duration: 1-2 days.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
Nag Tibba (literally meaning Serpents peak) is the highest mountain peak in the lesser Himalayas, with an altitude of about 3,022 metres. The Nag Tibba trek is considered to be an ideal weekend trek, and perfect for both beginner and professional trekkers. It offers a panoramic view of some of the famous mountain peaks in the lesser Himalayan region, which include the Bandarpoonch peak, the Gangotri peaks, and the Kedarnath peak. The beautiful mountain valleys and forests along the trek add to the appeal. It is suitable to visit both during the summers and winters.
These were some of the most famous treks in Uttarakhand. Other notable treks in the state are the Brahmatal trek, the Valley of Flowers trek, Deoriatal Chandrashila trek, Dayara Bugyal trek, Pindari Glacier trek, Roopkund trek etc. The land of Gods which holds some of the holiest Hindu shrines, is also known for its breathtaking views and serenity of the mountains, and is no less than a paradise for nature lovers. Trekking to these mountains is definitely the most rewarding and an experience of a lifetime.