Shutting down of schools, trying out hobbies, gulping fresh mangoes and relishing games and chatter; summer months were craved for eagerly in our childhood. But it’s years later, life’s busy, you’re cranking up the AC and ahem, how many complaints have you made about the heat?
You don't need summer vacations to enjoy yourself, take a few days off for a Himalayan trek to immerse yourself in the quiet of the mountains, sit by streams, huddle around bonfires and see spectacular landscapes unfold - it’s just what you need this summer!
goSTOPS, India’s largest and fastest-growing backpacker hostel brand launched goEXPERIENCES which offers various activities including tours and treks. Their treks are mindful of locals, full of adventure and safe with experienced guides who keep you company. Rekindle the adventure within you with these five treks offered by goEXPERIENCES which will make you experience the best of summer amidst pristine nature.
Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
The name says it all! This gem is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Trekking through this valley will have you feeling as if you’re walking into a life-sized bouquet as the region is home to approximately 600 species of alpine flowers. The Pushpawati river keeps you company as it meanders along the trail, greeting you every now and then. The highlight of this trek is the ascent to Hemkund Sahib, one of the highest gurudwaras in the entire world. After a steep climb, the soothing prayers and the mouthwatering kadha prasad in front of the alpine Hemkund lake leave you with the most rewarding feeling.
Total trekking distance: 47 km
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Best time to visit: June end to mid-September
Highest altitude: 14,400 ft.
Duration: 6D/5N
Trek route: Joshimath - Pulna (Govindghat) - Ghangaria - Valley of Flowers - Ghangaria - Hemkund Sahib - Ghangaria - Joshimath - Rishikesh
Hampta Pass, Himachal Pradesh
Get ready to be awed by how the terrain changes in Himachal Pradesh’s Hampta Pass. You start off from Kullu with a spread of flora and fauna and you end up on the rugged side of Lahaul. What makes this trek immensely popular is the fact that in just one trek you get to see waterfalls, glaciers, streams and grasslands! It is also considered a good trek for beginners to get acquainted with the idea of camping out and covering short distances daily. The crossover on the pass has you move from the blossoming end of Himachal to Lahaul, a barren land of rocks and steep mountains that can only be termed as otherworldly. This brings you to the confluence of Hampta Pass, Rohtang Pass and Spiti, lending that serene Buddhist charm to your journey.
Total trekking distance: 21 km
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Best time to visit: mid-June to October
Highest altitude: 14,000 ft.
Duration: 5D/4N
Trek route: Manali - Jobri Nallah - Chika - Balu ka Ghera - Shea Goru via Hampta Pass - Chhatru - Chandtrataal - Rohtang Pass - Manali
Chandrashila Chopta, Uttarakhand
At the top of Chopta Tungnath is an ancient temple and further beyond it, the Chandrashila summit stands tall with the mighty mountains of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba and the Gangotri range. Make your way through the rocky path, crossing oak and rhododendron forests that are home to over 240 species of birds! Those with a keen eye may even spot Himalayan swiftlet, snow partridge and mountain hawk-eagle. Animals such as the tahr and ghurad are also spotted in the nearby forests. This ‘Moon Rock’ mountain top is perfect for a picnic because how can you not sit down and take in the majestic 360-degree view of peaks offered here?
Total trekking distance: 21 km
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Best time to visit: April to June
Highest altitude: 12,100ft.
Duration: 3D/2N
Trek route: Rishikesh - Chopta - Chandrashila - Chopta - Sari Village - Deoriatal Lake
Har Ki Dun, Uttarakhand
Nestled in the Himalayas is not only natural beauty but also a rich mythological history. On this trek, known as the Valley of God, one gets to witness the temple dedicated to Duryodhana as well as a glimpse of the Swargarohini peak. The peak is believed to be the path that the Pandavas took to make their journey toward heaven. Meander across gorgeous hamlets as you listen to the rich folklore of this land. This includes the hamlet of Taluka where chestnut, wild roses, chinar and walnut trees make the area seem like a postcard. Another attraction here is the chance to gaze at the Jaundhar glacier - after all, it isn’t every day that one gets to see a glacier! Unleash the explorer in you, sing your heart out around bonfires under starry skies and jot down your adventures in your journal.
Total trekking distance: 49 km
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Best time to visit: September to November, April to June
Highest altitude: 11,675 ft.
Duration: 7D/6N
Trek route: Dehradun - Sankri - Taluka - Seema - Har ki Dun - Jaundhar Glacier - Har ki Dun - Seema - Sankri via Taluka - Dehradun
Sar Pass, Himachal Pradesh
From dense forests to quaint villages, from massive mountains to pretty meadows, the Sar Pass trek is a favourite among adventurers on account of the varied views that it offers. The term ‘sar’ translates to ‘pond’ which you come across, set like a jewel amidst the deodars and pinewood trees. This trek is for those looking to get away from the madness of crowds in order to reconnect with nature and themselves at the rustic campsites of Min Thatch and Nagaru. Have a conversation with the villagers, ask them about their lives and spend your time admiring this haven in the depths of Kasol; this trek is to let go of all worries and just give in to the charm of the place you’re exploring.
Total trekking distance: 48 km
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Best time to visit: May to October
Highest altitude: 13,580 ft.
Duration: 5D/4N
Trek route: Kasol - Grahan - Min Thatch - Nagaru - Biskeri Thatch via Sar Pass - Barshaini - Kasol
Unlock the magic now with goEXPERIENCES for an adventurous and rejuvenating Himalayan escape!
In association with goSTOPS.
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