Gone are the days when people used to like luxurious holidays. it is now the age of nature lovers and expeditions. Here are some choice locations to go for a summer trek in the Himalayas. Pick your favourite trekking vacation from the list here.
1. Hampta Pass Trek
Filled with contrasts, the Hampta Pass trek is considered to be one of the best Himalayan summer treks. Opening up into the deserts of Lahaul, the pass resembles a portal into another world, before leaving behind the lush greenery of the meadows of Jwara. If you’re new to trekking or want to add a high-altitude trek to your list of achievements, Hampta Pass is where you should begin. The views are stunning, and you’ll be presented with picturesque landscapes every step of the way. The ascents are gradual, and the descents are steep only in a few places. The best time to visit the trek is from July to the end of September or first week of October.
2. Pin Parvati Pass Trek
Apart from its many challenges including steep inclines, heavy snowfall and rugged landscapes, the Pin Parvati Pass trek has set itself impressed by people. The trekking route covers a range of terrains including marshlands, meadows, forests, cold deserts and glaciers. If you’ve done high altitude treks before and are physically fit, you should certainly give this a try. It will be one of the best Himalayan summer treks you’ve ever taken. The best time to go is from June to July.
3. Stok Kangri Trek
The highest peak of the Himalayan Stok range, this is one of the most enchanting destinations for the trekkers. At a distance of almost 24 km from the Leh district, the trek provides the most challenging and thrilling trekking experience. The difficulty of this trek lies in its great height. The air gets thinner at such heights, which makes it very difficult for breathing. The trekkers also have to get prepared for the frequent and unexpected changes in the weather conditions. However, for those who are looking for Trekking in Ladakh, the Stok Kangri Trek can provide one of the ultimate experiences of their life. The months of July to September are the best time to go Trekking in Ladakh.
4. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
Five lakes, each more beautiful than the next, will take your breath away and leave you wondering if you’ve stumbled upon paradise. At different points of the trail, trekkers pass through maple and pine forests, rivers, valleys and hamlets. There are some challenging climbs and sharp descents that you’ll want to be able to conquer without using up your stamina. As with any high elevation location, altitude sickness can occur, and trekkers should be prepared to deal with it. The best time to visit is from July to August.
5. Valley of Flowers Trek
Considered as one of the best Himalayan treks for many, the Valley of Flowers is set in the Valley of Flowers National Park, famed for its endemic flora and home to endangered animals. An easy one and ideal for novices, it is favoured by seasoned trekkers looking to take in the beauty of the valley. The snow-clad peaks and glaciers create a gorgeous contrast and compel you to take out your camera and capture as many memories as possible. The best time to go to this trek is from July to September.