Indiahikes

Indiahikes India's most trusted and sustainable trekking organisation. We organise treks in the Himalayas, Central India, Southern India, Indonesia and Georgia.

Today Indiahikes’ website is the largest curated trek information about trekking in India. As more information is being added, we are dealing with technology challenges to make the content editable, informative, easy to read and shareable. If you have any ideas that can make trek documentation more engaging we would love to hear from you. Good, cutting edge ideas are not easy and we are looking fo

r them. If we find your idea worth following up then we would love to take you on a trek with us. New Trails, New Explorations

Indiahikes has been instrumental in bringing out great treks in India — be it the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, The Rupin Pass, The Roopkund or any of them listed on our website. All great treks in India have either been discovered, the route modified, or simply brought to people’s attention by Indiahikes. The implication of this is significant. Explorations lead to discoveries of great treks. Indiahikes actively promotes a culture of exploration in trekkers. Indiahikes totally sponsors trek explorations. We don’t charge any money but expect that you be an equal member of the trek documentation process. Explorations are not restricted to the Himalayas, but open to any state in India. They can be in the hills, forests, around a lake, on a beach, anywhere. Email us to sign up for trek explorations. Schools/colleges who would like to encourage trekking explorations can sign up for our Hiking Club program. Email us for more details. Innovation in Trekking

Indiahikes has been instrumental in bringing in new changes to trekking in India. Today, the way treks are conducted in India is not how things were even 5 years ago. Some of these innovations look seemingly small but the impact on trekking is enormous. Microspikes worn over trekking shoes help get a firm grip on snow. The introduction of microspikes has dropped trekking accidents in the mountains by over 80%. Mandatory measurement of oxygen levels in blood on high altitude treks has made early diagnosis of altitude sickness a lot easier. Changing of food menu on Sikkim trails have increased marketable value of local staff, whose incomes have increased as they become universally employable. Solving Problems of the Mountains
At Indiahikes solving problems of the mountains is one of our core values. Solving problems have invariably led to innovations and our growth. At Indiahikes, we believe there are many more problems that we haven’t been able to put our finger on. If you have noticed a challenge that needs to be overcome send us an email. If you would like to be part of the problem solving team let us know as well. Great Treks
Finally, at Indiahikes, we also run great treks. We are India’s largest trek organisation for many reasons. Our attention to detail — our tents are not camping tents, they are expedition tents. Our sleeping bags have 5 layers and go down to -10°C. They are so popular that trekkers want to buy them! There are other reasons too: Trekkers love our trek leaders, each one of them a star. They are qualified (with advanced mountaineering courses), trained, urban and simply love the mountains. Most of them were working in high end industries before getting into, what they say, is the best job in the world. Our local staff are permanently employed by us and not outsourced. Trekkers also love the company they get on our treks. Somehow, being the largest also attract the better trekkers. Women feel particularly safe. Single women trekkers are the largest with Indiahikes. It is not surprising most of our groups run full. Registrations usually need to be done 2-3 months in advance. If you would like to share your thoughts or collaborate with Indiahikes on any of the thoughts that we have raised here, email us at [email protected]. We would love to hear from you.

07/16/2025

The Gaumukh Tapovan trek is one of the most iconic treks in our country. It takes you right to the snout of the Gangotri Glacier, the source of the Ganga. But it’s not just the significance of the trail that makes it special; it’s the setting.

As you trek deeper, the mighty Mt Shivling rises in front of you, flanked by the towering Bhagirathi sisters. These are among the most majestic mountains in India, and to see them from such close quarters is a rare experience. You camp in wide open meadows of Tapovan, surrounded by these giants — an experience trekkers remember for life.

The trek is rated moderate-difficult, with a tricky glacier crossing, boulder sections, and exposed trails. But if you’re fit and well-prepared, the rewards are unmatched.

The best time to do this trek is in summer (mid-May to June) and in autumn (mid-September to mid-October). Autumn, in particular, offers the clearest views of the mountains and makes the entire glacier landscape glow in golden light.

We have limited dates open for the autumn season. If you’ve been waiting to do this Himalayan classic, this is a great time to go.

Comment “ganga” to see all the available dates and to get more information.

📸: Faizan Devdiwala, Experience Manager, Indiahikes

Honestly, we had no plans to open the Ranthan Kharak trek until next summer. However, things changed after we wrapped up...
07/15/2025

Honestly, we had no plans to open the Ranthan Kharak trek until next summer.

However, things changed after we wrapped up our spring season on this trail.

Trekkers have come back absolutely raving about the trek. Yes, the vast rhododendron forests were beautiful. But trekkers also were blown away by some of the most incredible mountain views, vast clearings, and ridge walks on the way to Ranthan Top. To the West, you see the legendary peaks of Garhwal like Nanda Devi, Maiktoli, Mrigthuni, Dang Thyal, and Trishul. On the Eastern horizon, Kumaon’s most iconic massif– Panchachuli– greets you with its five magnificent summits.

It is no surprise that the Ranthan Kharak trek is set to join the list of India’s most popular Himalayan treks, alongside classics like Kedarkantha, Deoriatal-Chandrashila, and Kuari Pass.

We don’t get a very long window to run this trek in autumn. But those who trek during this season are in for something truly special.

The views in autumn are far sharper than in spring or summer. Despite this, autumn is one of the best times to do the Ranthan Kharak trek. The views are much sharper and crisper compared to the Summer season. This is something to witness from Ranthan Kharak. The magnificent views on both sides of the ridge walk are a delight!

The trail changes colour as you trudge deeper into the trek. Initially, you’ll notice many shades of green near the base camp. This continues as you trek through forests and grasslands. But as you gain altitude and enter to the meadow section, you’ll notice more yellows, oranges, and browns.

By end of October or the start of November, if the weather turns bad, there are chances of witnessing the first winter snowfall of the year.

🏔️ We have opened dates in September and October, comment “Ranthan” to know more about the trek!

📸 : Prathamesh Jichkar, Nitesh Kumar, Pritish Bhanushali, Shivank, Jothiranjan

There’s a quiet world of trekking just a few hours outside Bengaluru.These are short trails that take you through forest...
07/14/2025

There’s a quiet world of trekking just a few hours outside Bengaluru.

These are short trails that take you through forests, over grasslands, and to rocky summits with far-reaching views. You don’t need a long weekend to explore them; most can be done in half a day, with enough time to return home by lunch.

What makes these treks special is their variety. Some take you through dense tree cover and hidden lakes. Others open up to wide ridgelines and peaceful hilltops. Even though they’re close to the city, they give you the experience of being deep in nature.

In this post, we’ve listed 8 of our favourite one-day treks near Bengaluru. These are ideal for beginners, weekend explorers, or anyone looking to spend a few quiet hours outdoors.

Which of these would you like to explore next? Tell us in the comments.

Visit the "Documented Treks" section on our website to get more information about these treks.

The Chandrabhaga Glaciers Trek is unlike anything we’ve launched before.For a long time, we’ve been searching for a regi...
07/14/2025

The Chandrabhaga Glaciers Trek is unlike anything we’ve launched before.

For a long time, we’ve been searching for a region that’s free from both — where monsoon doesn’t disrupt trekking, and where trails are stable and accessible.

That’s when our eyes turned to the rain-shadow region of Lahaul.

Starting from the Baralacha La Pass, this trek is set entirely above 16,000 ft. It takes you deep into the glacier country of Lahaul — a region so remote, only a handful of expeditioners have ventured here. And yet, it’s not a technical trek.

You walk beside five massive glaciers, two alpine lakes: Kya Tso and Ga Tso, the very snout of the Chandra River and the iconic peaks of Lahaul from the KR and Chandrabhaga Ranges.

But what stands out to us is the spectacular glaciers you see along the way. This trek is a rare, up-close showcase of glacier country — from crevasses and sinkholes to snouts and icefalls. It’s perhaps the closest you can get to these powerful ice formations without getting into the technical difficulties of actually walking on them.

It’s one of the most dramatic landscapes we’ve seen — rugged, raw and breathtaking in every direction.

This year, we are launching just two pilot groups in August. Being a part of the pilot group means that you are almost re-exploring the trek, maybe even making some changes in the trek design for future trekkers. We are putting together two small teams of around 15 members who are fit, adventurous, and passionate trekkers.

If you’ve been waiting for a remote, high-altitude adventure this monsoon, this is it.
Not many will get to experience this — we hope you do.

🗻Comment “Glacier” below and we’ll send you the details.

Photos by: Pritish Bhanushali
These photos are from the exploration.

Most people think of Bijli Mahadev as an easy trek. And it is, when you think of distance and effort. But what surprises...
07/11/2025

Most people think of Bijli Mahadev as an easy trek. And it is, when you think of distance and effort. But what surprises you is how much beauty it packs in such a short trail.

The route we take at Indiahikes begins deep in the forest. The trail is soft under your feet, with tall pine trees on either side. The sunlight comes through gently, and the only sounds you hear are birds and the crunch of leaves as you walk. It’s the kind of forest walk that slows you down without you even realising it.

And just when you think the forest is the highlight, the trail opens up into wide rolling grasslands. It’s unexpected. Suddenly, you’re walking through open meadows with clouds floating low and views of both Kullu and Parvati valleys stretching far into the distance. Horses graze quietly, and everything feels calm and open.

This weekend trek (yes, we have changed it to a weekend trek) ends at the Bijli Mahadev temple. But the temple is only one part of it. The real experience lies in the quiet forests, the surprise of the grasslands, and the ease with which you move through it all.

It’s a reminder that even the simplest treks can offer some of the richest experiences when you trek mindfully and take it all in.

➡️ Comment “Bijli” to get more information about the trek.

Photos by: Pritish Bhanushali

For a long time, we’ve been searching for a place that takes you away from city life. A place where you can connect with...
07/10/2025

For a long time, we’ve been searching for a place that takes you away from city life. A place where you can connect with nature, but still reach without much hassle.

We’ve finally found that space. It’s a beautiful Forest Campus in Yelagiri.

What we love about this campus is that it was not built like a resort or a homestay. It was designed to help people learn about the outdoors through experiences.

As soon as you step in, you’ll notice how close it feels to nature. You’ll camp under mango trees, explore trails through eucalyptus forests, and come across natural boulders to climb. The campus is full of jackfruit, bamboo, and banyan trees, too!

You don’t even need to leave the campus to feel like you’re deep in the outdoors.

But there’s more. One of the highlights of the two-day experience is a trek to Swamimalai, the highest point in Yelagiri. It is a short climb, but a rewarding one. From the top, you get a beautiful view of Jolarpettai town below the hills.

The entire experience is thoughtfully put together to give you not just an adventure, but also new skills and insights — from learning how to pitch your own tent to understanding the natural world more deeply.

And it’s all just a 4-hour journey from Bangalore, Chennai, and nearby cities — easily reachable by road or daily trains.

If you are a family, a group of friends, or a solo trekker, this is the perfect starting point for your trekking journey.

We have dates for this trek starting in August.
➡️ Comment “Camping” to know more.

📸 Pictures by: Nitesh Kumar, Chief Explorer

There is something deeply wrong with the way we treat our natural spaces.Over the past few years, we have come across ch...
07/09/2025

There is something deeply wrong with the way we treat our natural spaces.

Over the past few years, we have come across chocolate wrappers in flowering meadows, wet wipes along forest trails, and bottles carelessly tossed near alpine lakes. Even in the Valley of Flowers, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we see heaps of trash in every nook and corner.

Trash in the mountains has become so common that many have stopped reacting to it. That in itself is worrying.

Often, people say there are no dustbins on the trail or that clean-up systems are missing. But these spaces were never supposed to need dustbins. The outdoors was never meant to be cleaned.

This is not an infrastructure problem. It is a behavioural one.

Every wrapper, packet, and bottle was carried in by someone. And it was left behind with the thought that someone else would take care of it.

At Indiahikes, we have tried multiple ways to tackle this — eco bags, awareness campaigns, clean-up drives. But the truth is that the problem begins long before we step on the trail. It begins with how we think about nature.

It is easy to believe that one packet will not matter. But it does. It alters the trail. It affects the forest, the water, the wildlife. It affects the experience of the next trekker who walks there.

If we claim to trek to connect with nature, then we cannot walk away from what we leave behind.

So the next time you are outdoors, ask yourself a simple question: does this belong here?

If it doesn’t, carry it back with you. Because protecting our trails begins with the smallest choices we make.

And the responsibility is always ours.

Not many realise it, but monsoon is one of the most beautiful seasons to trek in.This is when nature is at its freshest....
07/08/2025

Not many realise it, but monsoon is one of the most beautiful seasons to trek in.

This is when nature is at its freshest. The rain brings the mountains alive — meadows turn lush, forests grow thick and full of energy, and streams and rivers begin to flow with a new rhythm. Flowers begin to bloom, birds return to the forests, and even the air feels different.

“This is one of my favourite seasons to trek,” shares Arjun Majumdar, Founder and CEO of Indiahikes. “It’s when you see a completely different side of the Himalayas. There’s a richness to the experience that’s hard to put into words.”

There’s also variety in the treks. On one side, you have the lush treks of Uttarakhand and Himachal, like the Valley of Flowers or Hampta Pass. On the other, you have the dry, stark beauty of the rain-shadow regions like Miyar Valley or Pin Bhaba Pass. No matter where you go, the trails look and feel different in the monsoon.

Yes, there may be some rain, but with good preparation and proper gear, it’s never a barrier.

If you’ve never done a monsoon trek before, this is the season to start.

➡️ Save this post for your monsoon trek plans.

➡️ Comment “Monsoon” to get our list!

Photos by: Arpit Agarwal, Gourab Nandy, Indiahikes Trekkers and Archives.

We all have moments from a trek that we cannot forget. For some, it’s even the entire trek.It could be the first time yo...
07/03/2025

We all have moments from a trek that we cannot forget. For some, it’s even the entire trek.

It could be the first time you saw a sky full of stars. Or that steep climb you didn’t think you could finish. Maybe it was walking through a forest that felt endless, or just sitting quietly at a campsite after a long day.

These moments don’t need to be big. But they become part of why you remember the trek the way you do.

What’s that one moment you still think about?

The Chandrakhani trek takes on a dramatically different character in summer and monsoon, almost as if you're walking two...
07/03/2025

The Chandrakhani trek takes on a dramatically different character in summer and monsoon, almost as if you're walking two entirely different trails.

In summer, large sections of the trail are still under snow. The meadows are only beginning to open up, and patches of brown earth peek out beneath the melting snow.

In contrast, the monsoon breathes life into the trek. By July, the trail is lush and bursting with greenery. The forests are dense and rich, the meadows come alive with wildflowers, and streams flow freely across the path. Clouds hang low over the valley, and the trail gets wrapped in soft mist every now and then. It’s a quieter season on this trail, too, which makes the experience even more personal.

Monsoon brings out a side of Chandrakhani that few trekkers get to see; it’s one of the best and most unique ways to experience this trek.

Comment “Pass” to get more details about this trek.

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What Is Indiahikes?

Indiahikes started almost 10 years ago with one vision: to define the future of trekking.

What began as one humble blogpost about the Roopkund trek has now blossomed into India’s largest trekking community and an authoritative source of all trek related information.

Nine years later, the Indiahikes website is the largest database of trek information in India.Thousands of trekkers use information on the Indiahikes website to go trekking on their own. Credible information has become the fulcrum that has taken trekking forward in India.

Being the last word on all trek related information is part of our core values. Since the time of Indiahikes’ inception, we have been working hard to gather, organise and make available any and all information to anyone even remotely interested in trekking.