4 Must-Do Treks in Himachal Pradesh to explore
From the big screen to the summit, the Himachali Himalayas have a trek for every kind of trekker.
If there’s one thing all mountain enthusiasts can agree on, it’s this: Himachal Pradesh never disappoints. Whether you’re pursuing cinematic mountains, alpine passes, or just the soul-calming quietude of the Himalayas, this state has trails that linger within you long after the trekking is done.
Here’s a handpicked list of four treks to do in Himachal Pradesh: each one a mix of challenge, charm, and the most beautiful mountain enchantment.
Hampta Pass Trek
If the scenic valleys shown in the Bollywood movie Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani made you suddenly feel the need to get out and hit the mountains, then this is your trek. The scenes for some of the most enduringly popular moments from the movie were inspired by the Hampta Pass trek’s picturesque landscape. And guess what? The trek isn’t too difficult either.
From the apple orchards of Jobra in the vicinity of Manali, the trail winds through pine forests, meadows of wildflowers, and ultimately opens up to the arid, rocky Spiti side on the other side of the pass. The terrain contrast is dreamlike — as if covering a distance from Switzerland to Ladakh in a couple of days.
Duration: 4 Nights, 5 Nights
Maximum Elevation gained: 14,000 ft.
Best Time to visit: June to September
Suitable for: Monsoon trekkers, landscape photographers, beginners, movie buffs
Rupin Pass Trek
If you want a trek that surprises you at every step, Rupin Pass Trek will leave you stunned. Starting in the green expanses of Uttarakhand and concluding in the harsh landscapes of Himachal, it’s a crossover trek in the truest sense, geographically as well as emotionally.
You’ll see hanging villages, frozen waterfalls, snow bridges, and eventually a steep ascent to the high-altitude pass where prayer flags wave in the breeze. This is not just a trek, it’s an adventure that feels like a complete expedition.
Duration: 6 Nights, 7 Days
Maximum Elevation gained: 15,250 ft.
Best Time to Visit: May to June; September to October
Suitable for: Experienced trekkers, adventure enthusiasts, people who want to see changing landscapes
Duration: 4 Nights, 5 Nights
Maximum Elevation gained: 14,000 ft.
Best Time to visit: June to September
Suitable for: Monsoon trekkers, landscape photographers, beginners, movie buffs
Buran Ghati Trek
The Buran Ghati trek is rightly referred to as the “hidden gem” of Himachal, and when you do it, you’ll understand why. This trek has everything, pine forests, rural Himachali villages, calm lakes, meadows of wildflowers, and one of the most exhilarating snow descents you’ll ever experience.
The thrill? Sliding down a high snow wall after traversing the high-altitude Buran Pass. It’s tough, but not too challenging, making it ideal for those who have done a couple of treks already and are looking for something more memorable.
Duration: 6 Nights, 7 Days
Maximum Elevation gained: 15,000 ft.
Best Time to Visit: May to June; September to October
Suitable for: Experienced trekkers, adventure seekers, nature lovers
Duration: 4 Nights, 5 Nights
Maximum Elevation gained: 14,000 ft.
Best Time to visit: June to September
Suitable for: Monsoon trekkers, landscape photographers, beginners, movie buffs
Sar Pass Trek
If you’re a beginner to Himalayan trekking and want something adventurous but within reach, the Sar Pass Trek is an ideal beginning. Located in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, the trek gives you a little bit of everything the mountains can provide, from forest trails and meadows to snow-covered areas.
The hike starts in Kasol, a bustling backpacker town famous for its cafés and relaxed atmosphere, and slowly ascends through pine-scented woods, picturesque hamlets, and alpine meadows. The actual excitement is when you cross the Sar Pass itself, which is usually covered in snow, and slide down the other side (yes, literally!).
Duration: 4 Nights, 5 days
Maximum Elevation gained: 13,797 ft.
Best Time to Visit: April to May
Suitable for: First timers, people who want the experience of a proper snow trek
Duration: 4 Nights, 5 Nights
Maximum Elevation gained: 14,000 ft.
Best Time to visit: June to September
Suitable for: Monsoon trekkers, landscape photographers, beginners, movie buffs
Conclusion
Himachal’s treks are not just trails, they’re stories to be experienced. Whether you’re stepping onto a trekking trail for the first time or checking off another Himalayan bucket list, these four trails are seasoned, proven, and adored by thousands of people for a reason.
So pack your bags, tie on your boots, and let Himachal present you with its numerous moods, from Hampta Pass’s fairytale greens to Rupin and Buran Ghati’s untamed grandeur.
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Know Everything About Acute Mountain Sickness
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