Best trails in India

Trekking in a vast country like India can be a thrilling experience. From icy deserts and tropical rain forests to climbing vast Himalayan peaks, one can enjoy some of the most diverse and beautiful trails. India rewards every hiker with spectacular views of snow-capped mountain peaks, lush meadows, gushing streams and waterfalls, high altitude glaciers, and amazing variety of flora & fauna. Here are India's most reputed trekking trails that one should visit at least once in a lifetime.

1. 
   1. Roopkund, Uttarakhand:

   Roopkund trek is the most popular treks in the Himalayas. For those who enjoy more daring experiences, this trek presents an opportunity to view Roopkund's famous Mystery Lake. This trek is of moderate difficulty level and it takes around 8 to 9 days to complete the entire route. With a maximum altitude of 15,696 ft, the best season to attempt Roopkund Trek is from mid-May to mid-June, and September to December. There are three trekking routes: via Mundoli, Kathgodam or Lohjang.

2. 
   2. Har Ki Dun, Uttarakhand:

   It’s the most visited trail for experiencing adventure in the Himalayas. The Har Ki Dun Trek hasn’t seen much human footprint, leaving many birds & animals to thrive in this region. You can spot black bears, wild boars & swamp deer amongst other animals. You would also be walking along the playful, sparkling, flowering waterfalls and streams. With every step, the views and the landscapes would become spectacular. Best time to go for The Har Ki Dun trek is from September to December. Total trekking distance is 67 km, it takes 5 days to cover the route with max. altitude of 3500 m.

3. 
   3. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, Jammu & Kashmir:

   The Great Lakes Trek, also known as Sonamarg-Vishansar-Naranag Trek, is an alpine Himalayan high- altitude trek in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. It generally starts from almost 3 km out of Sonamarg, on the Srinagar road. The Kashmir Great Lakes trek can be completed in 8 days. Monsoon is the best season to go for this trek, as during this period, one can expect clear tracks filled with lush grasslands and plenty of wild flowers which stimulate the air with their fabulous fragrance.

4. 
   4. Chokramudi, Kerala:

   Munnar is one of the most beautiful hill stations of South India and a significant place to trek in Kerala. Trekking in this region will surely test your adrenaline and energy skills. The trek to the highest peak can be divided into four parts—Shola walk, the grass stroll, steep climb, & the dangerous terrain. Enjoy the misty clouds, lush greenery, and cool breeze while trekking as you cover an altitude of 7200 feet.

5. 
   5. Kolli Hills, Tamil Nadu:

   The Great Lakes Trek, also known as Sonamarg-Vishansar-Naranag Trek, is an alpine Himalayan high- altitude trek in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. It generally starts from almost 3 km out of Sonamarg, on the Srinagar road. The Kashmir Great Lakes trek can be completed in 8 days. Monsoon is the best season to go for this trek, as during this period, one can expect clear tracks filled with lush grasslands and plenty of wild flowers which stimulate the air with their fabulous fragrance.

6. 
   6. Dzukou Valley and Japfu Peak Trek:

   Known as one of the most charming valleys in all of Nagaland, Dzukou Valley is a spectacular visual treat of emerald green hills and lush forests. Japfu Peak trek, which is well defined by a single trail all the way to the top, takes you to a wonderful trekking spot where you can see a vast spread of valleys, hills, and villages. Interestingly, almost half of Nagaland is visible from this point. The trek is of moderate difficulty level and can be completed in about 5 days.

7. 
   7. Sandakphu Trek, West Bengal:

   The Sandakphu Treks in North East India begins at Manebhanjan, West Bengal and winds in and out of Nepal before it reaches the ’valley of poison’ or Sandakhpu. Sandakphu Trek, West Bengal is a wonderland for trekkers. The spectacular views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu are just the reward you waited for on summit. It’s a 6 day trek with an altitude of 3636m. Best time to visit is April- June, & October- December.

8. 
   8. Shillong Peak Trek, Meghalaya:

   Shillong Peak Trek is an amazing experience of snow-capped peaks, numerous waterfalls, and luscious terrains. The Shillong peak is not steep and can be termed a gentle climb. You can approach the Shillong peak through upper Shillong or the Jowai road. If you love trekking then do try out the cobbled trekking route from Umkynrut-Kynjat Phutbol to the Shillong View Point a Laitkor.