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Reasons for Trekking
Fitness
People join the gym club to work on their fitness, paying a heavy amount of money but it is an artificial exercise that they forcibly attain. If you want to challenge your fitness naturally, be part of a trudge in trekking. Trekking is a wayfaring journey that examines your level of physical endurance and rewards you with healthy fitness. It also motivates the trekker to survive in adverse situations, pursuing activities like climbing, descending, hiking, and walking.
Appreciate Natural Beauty of the Earth
Why do people bear hardships and go trekking, is it merely for fitness that they spend days walking on rocks or mud? There are lots of things that you cannot experience at home, spending most of your time in front on digital screens. You cannot know how a rock feels, how cold the snow is and most of all, you cannot experience the real and natural beauty of the Earth without going outside. Trekking lets you see the lush green meadow, snow-capped mountains, dense forests, wild species, and more such marvels of nature.
Spiritual Connection
Why do some people make a rural journey where there is a dearth of good food and luxurious comfort, are they hunting for money? No, they walk miles away from home in search of peace and isolation where they can meditate without any disturbance from other people's continuous proximity. People do meditation for spirituality which is the eternal pleasure for those who rove in search of peace and trekking is the only source to make it possible. Once you set off trekking, you also find numerous spiritual sites in the form of temples, stupas, and more.
Feeling of Relaxation and Rush
Life is full of stress and it becomes even more complex in modern times. From office work to private life, everything is under pressure and stress one way or the other – nothing is free. So, the outlet of stress is a must and trekking is the ideal activity which saves you from stress, at least for some moments. During trekking, when you release a good amount of energy, the blood circulation improves and your mind is free from stress – you only focus on the journey enjoying the natural beauty. Ask your friends who have gone hiking and trekking about an adrenaline rush and they will tell you the level of excitement and pleasure which they experienced while being on a trek.
Expansion of Mind
Sitting in the same place for a long time kills your creativity and you are limited with your opinion and philosophy. Set off trekking and observe the people and nature and their harmonious relationship. You get to know the history of a place and you can also collect valuable information. Besides, meditation is the real source of knowledge which you can get during trekking. Trekking also helps you to know yourself better and encourages out-of-the-box thinking and expand your mental horizons.
New Experiences
Our thoughts are fixed until we find something different. Trekking provides you an opportunity to meet new people and new cultures miles away from home. You can observe their lifestyle and learn about their cultures. It will be a beautiful and unique experience watching new places, new dishes, new customs and it will become the source of a story that you can tell others.
10 Best Trekking Places in India
Lamayuru–Alchi Trek
The Lamayuru–Alchi Trek is an exciting blend of monasteries, remote villages and high mountain passes. You can begin the trek by first coming to Leh's Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (if you are travelling by air) and if you want to reach it by road; you can travel on the Srinagar-Leh Highway and the Manali-Leh Highway up to Leh. The trek is mapped through routes from Lamayuru to Alchi and on the routes, you have an opportunity to interact with the inhabitants of the local area and know about the history of the place from the scriptoriums and walls of ancient monasteries of Ladakh. The area that the trek covers has been greatly influenced by the lifestyle of Indo-Tibetans which makes the Lamayuru–Alchi Trek a life-changing spiritual journey and Buddhist pilgrims come here from different parts of the world.
The major attractions on the Lamayuru–Alchi Trek route are Lamayuru monastery, Indus River, Sham valley, Alchi monastery, Ladakhi culture, remote villages, and the Leh Bazaar.
Highlights:
- Maximum Altitude: 5,250 m
- Trekking Difficulty: Moderate
- Best Time to Visit: Mid June – September
Roopkund Trek
The Roopkund Trek takes you to a glacial lake, Roopkund which lies in Uttarakhand, a state in north India. Roopkund is a mysterious and exciting place as it has over 500 human skeletons around the lake's edge which are believed to be from the Palaeolithic Age. If you go on the Roopkund Trek which starts from Kathgodam, you will be mesmerised by the real beauty of Uttarakhand. The panoramic view of the Skeleton Lake atop the hill, snow-clad Himalayas, meadows, waterfalls, etc. will be etched in your memory long after your trek has ended in Kathgodam. You can also enjoy camping during the trek which lets you stargaze into the beautiful clear sky at night.
The major attractions on the Roopkund Trek include Nanda Ghunti, Kali Dak, Trishul peaks, Roopkund Lake, and meadows of Ali Bugyal.
Highlights:
- Maximum Altitude: 5,029 m
- Trekking Difficulty: Moderate
- Best Time to Visit: May – October
Goecha La Trek
Cloud covered mountains on the top and lush green rolling meadows at the bottom summarise the magic of the Goecha La Trek. The view of Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Kabru, and Mount Dome can fill your heart with excitement on the Goecha La Trek. When you trek back from Goecha La, you will witness riveting streams, rhododendron forests, and green meadows.
While trekking, never miss watching the sunrise on the Kanchenjunga range and the deep blue waters of the Samiti Lake.
Highlights:
- Maximum Altitude: 4,940 m
- Trekking Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Best Time to Visit: April – September
Gomukh Tapovan Trek
The Gomukh Tapovan Trek is famous for sightseeing and spiritual destinations. The peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas, glaciers, and lush meadows are golden opportunities to feel the true beauty of nature during the Gomukh Tapovan Trek. During this trek you can also camp outdoors at Tapovan and enjoy wonderful views of enthralling peaks including Bhagirathi I, II, III, Mount Shivling, Chaturanga, Meru Parvat, Bhrigunath and Sudarshan.
On the Gomukh Tapovan Trek, do not miss the prime destinations that include Tapovan, Meru Glacier, Kirti Bamak Glacier and Gomukh.
Highlights:
- Maximum Altitude: 4,465m
- Trekking Difficulty: Moderate
- Best Time to Visit: May – June and August – October
Valley of Flowers Trek
The view of snow-capped mountains surrounding a valley of colourful flowers can surely take your breath away and if you want to feel it, get ready to join the Valley of Flowers Trek. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valley of Flowers is home to several species of butterflies, endangered animals and a wide spectrum of wildflowers. The Valley of Flowers Trek has a long journey which begins from Ghangaria but when you arrive in the valley with hundreds of colourful alpine flowers in full bloom, you will simply forget the toils and troubles of the trek.
This monsoon go on a fairy-tale journey of the Valley of Flowers Trek and lose yourself in the famous destination that includes Sri Hemkund Sahib and alpine flowers.
Highlights:
- Maximum Altitude: 4,389 m
- Trekking Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Best Time to Visit: June – September
Hampta Pass Trek
Located in the Pir Panjal mountain range, the Hampta Pass Trek blends the views of wide green pastures, glacial valleys and lofty mountains. The breathtaking views of numerous small streams and the thick vegetation are a sight to behold. Besides, the trek takes you on a picturesque journey with spectacular views of valleys and snow-clad mountain ranges.
You can also join the Hampta Pass Trek for camping as it provides campsites like Chandratal – the Moon Lake. The famous attractions on this trek include views of Lahaul and Spiti valleys, the snow-capped Dhauladhar range as well as the mountain ranges of Spiti and Pir Panjal.
Highlights:
- Maximum Altitude: 4,270 m
- Trekking Difficulty: Moderate
- Best Time to Visit: May – June and August – October
Kuari Pass Trek
The Kuari Pass Trek is famous for the breathtaking view of the great Himalayan ranges. With Tapovan as the base camp, the Kuari Pass Trek leads you through Devaprayag to Nanda Devi summit and leaves you stunned with the mesmerising views of snow-capped mountains.
You can also discover and explore lush valleys, ancient forests, and small villages during the trek. Views of the peaks of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kamet, Hathi-Ghodi Parvat and Dronagiri can also be captured during this trek. If you can already feel the excitement, don't wait until your holidays end – go and join the trek now.
Highlights:
- Maximum Altitude: 4,268 m
- Trekking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time to Visit: November – March
Chopta Chandrashila Trek
If you want a blend of spirituality and natural beauty, nothing can be better than the Chopta Chandrashila Trek that offers lots of such amazing opportunities. 360° views of various Himalayan peaks like Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi and Trishul, alpine vegetation, and clear waters of the lake will surely hypnotise you for a long long time. Once you reach the altitude of almost 3,048 m, you can also witness the 100-year-old Tungnath Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
During the Chopta Chandrashila Trek, don't miss the famous highlights that include a visit to the Shiva temple at Tungnath, Chandrashila, bird-watching in Chopta, and views of the Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks.
Highlights:
- Maximum Altitude: 4,090 m
- Trekking Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Best Time to Visit: March – June as well as September – December
Chadar Trek
Walking on the sheet of ice of the frozen Zanskar River is one of the best trekking experiences in the Ladakh Himalayas. The panorama of a cool atmosphere, the frozen river, caves, unusual campsites, sledges and the ever-changing Zanskar River are such beautiful landscapes which you can witness only during the Chadar Trek.
Walking on frozen rivers, spending the night in the cave and visiting Shanti Stupa are the popular activities during the Chadar Trek. Feeling excited, why are you wasting your time?
Highlights:
- Maximum Altitude: 3,850 m
- Trekking Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Best Time to Visit: January – February
Dodital Trek
The Dodital Trek takes you through lush green forests to the Dodital Lake which is famous for the Himalayan Golden Mahseer fish. You can enjoy the trek listening to the chirping of birds through oak, pine, and rhododendron forests. The Dodital Trek is aptly suited for beginners who may not like to take difficult hikes, yet they can witness the amazing trekking surprises.
Be a part of the Dodital Trek as it provides with lots of surprises like fish feeding at Dodi Lake camp and views of Bandarpoonch peak as well as the Dhauladhar ridges.
Highlights:
- Maximum Altitude: 3,085 m
- Trekking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time to Visit: March – June as well as September – December
Safety Tips for Trekking
- Plan Thoroughly:
Trekking is not a party activity at a destination where you can go without planning. Plan everything – the destination, duration of the trek, your budget, essentials, etc. before you go trekking. It will take sometime, so get these things planned at least a few months before the trip. - Prepare Yourself Physically and Mentally:
Is it your own plan that you are going trekking, are you completely ready for the long hours of walking and carrying your backpack for miles? Before you jump into trekking, complete a comprehensive medical check-up first. And if you are a novice or have never been hiking or trekking, practice workouts in your home or gym. And if you are unable to control your breathing at high altitudes, you may feel dizzy or vomit later. So, you need to prepare yourself physically as well as mentally and it will help you to be positive and condition yourself for the trek. - Carry Your Essentials with You:
Backpackers accord great priority to their packing. Your packing should include essentials like water bottle, windproof jacket, a dry pair of socks, sun hat, medicines, first-aid kit, food, compass, lights, etc. If you are going into high altitude mountain ranges, never forget taking sturdy rucksacks and waterproof boots. - Keep Your Gear Protected:
Trekking always challenges you, bringing new hardships and you have to proceed on the trekking journey always protecting your gear. Use a sturdy cover to save your expensive rucksacks from damage due to sharp rocks and thorny bushes. Do not carry an expensive camera with you all the time as nobody knows when the wild animals could damage it. - Respect Your Environment:
Don’t be irresponsible towards your environment – leaving firewood scattered, polluting water resources, etc. as it has an extremely adverse impact on the fragile environment of the remote location. Also, it is our duty to clean the campsite that we use, before we proceed further on the trek. - Be Familiar with Your Limitations:
If you are not too familiar with trekking and wayfaring, take the easy and short trek first. Do not jump into an excursion that you cannot return from. Also, carefully study the location on a map where you are planning to go, get your bearings before you go astray. Never move ahead of your group until you are permitted as some of the places may be restricted.
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Make the Most of Your Trekking Trip
As you would have realised by now, going on a trek is very different from a regular holiday. You not only need to plan for your trek but also condition yourself both physically and mentally. However all your preparations, effort and sweat is forgotten when the magnificent natural landscape unrolls in front of your eyes. We hope you would have loved this BP Guide and would have already started planning for your next trekking trip.