Whether you’re chasing snow views, spiritual serenity, or raw adventure, the state’s Garhwal and Kumaon regions deliver unforgettable trails. Trekking in Uttarakhand is a journey through sacred peaks, alpine meadows, glacier-fed rivers, and ancient pilgrimage routes. With over 86% of its terrain mountainous and nearly 65% forested, Uttarakhand is India’s trekking capital—offering everything from beginner-friendly hikes to high-altitude expeditions.
🗺️ Top Trekking Routes in Uttarakhand
1. Valley of Flowers Trek
📍 Chamoli District | UNESCO World Heritage Site
🌸 Best for: Nature lovers and photographers
- Highlights: Alpine flowers, Hemkund Sahib, waterfalls
- Duration: 6–7 days
- Altitude: ~14,100 ft
- Best Time: July–September
2. Roopkund Trek (currently restricted)
📍 Chamoli District
🦴 Best for: Mystery and adventure seekers
- Highlights: Skeleton Lake, alpine meadows, snowfields
- Duration: 7–8 days
- Altitude: ~16,500 ft
- Status: Closed for restoration; check updates before planning
3. Kedarkantha Trek
📍 Uttarkashi District
❄️ Best for: Winter trekking and beginners
- Highlights: Snow-covered trails, pine forests, summit views
- Duration: 4–6 days
- Altitude: ~12,500 ft
- Best Time: December–March
4. Har Ki Dun Trek
📍 Govind National Park
🏞️ Best for: Cultural immersion and valley views
- Highlights: Ancient villages, glacier basin, pine forests
- Duration: 6–7 days
- Altitude: ~11,700 ft
- Best Time: March–June, September–November
5. Panch Kedar Trek
📍 Garhwal Region
🛕 Best for: Spiritual seekers
- Highlights: Five sacred Shiva temples—Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, Kalpeshwar
- Duration: 10–12 days
- Altitude: Varies (up to 12,000 ft)
- Best Time: May–October
6. Nag Tibba Trek
📍 Near Mussoorie
🌄 Best for: Weekend trekkers and families
- Highlights: Forest trails, panoramic views, easy access
- Duration: 2–3 days
- Altitude: ~9,900 ft
- Best Time: October–April
7. Sunderdhunga–Pindari–Kafni Glacier Trek
📍 Pithoragarh District
🧊 Best for: Glacier lovers and seasoned trekkers
- Highlights: Three glacier valleys, remote trails, camping
- Duration: 8–10 days
- Altitude: ~13,000 ft
- Best Time: May–June, September–October
🧭 Suggested 7-Day Itinerary: “Garhwal Explorer”
Day 1: Arrival in Dehradun → Drive to Sankri
Day 2: Trek to Juda Ka Talab
Day 3: Trek to Kedarkantha Base
Day 4: Summit Kedarkantha → Return to Base
Day 5: Descend to Sankri → Village walk
Day 6: Drive to Mussoorie → Explore George Everest Peak
Day 7: Departure
🛍️ What to Pack
- Trekking shoes and layered clothing
- Rain gear and sun protection
- Water bottle, snacks, and energy bars
- First-aid kit and altitude medication
- ID proof and permits (if required)
🧘 Add-On Experiences
- 🛕 Temple visits: Kedarnath, Tungnath, Jageshwar
- 🐾 Wildlife spotting: Govind National Park, Nanda Devi Biosphere
- 🧂 Local cuisine: Mandua roti, bhatt ki churkani, pahadi rajma
- 📸 Photography trails: Valley of Flowers, Har Ki Dun, George Everest Peak
🔗 Where to Book Trekking Packages
| Provider | Highlights | Website |
| Uttarakhand Tourism | Official routes, permits, and guides | uttarakhandtourism.gov.in |
| IndiaHikes | Eco-conscious treks, safety-first approach | indiahikes.com |
| AllTrails | 467 mapped trails with reviews and photos | alltrails.com |
💡 Final Thoughts
Trekking in Uttarakhand is not just about reaching summits—it’s about walking through legends, landscapes, and local lives. Whether you’re tracing glacier-fed rivers or meditating in high-altitude temples, every trail in Uttarakhand offers a story worth living.
So lace up your boots, breathe in the mountain air, and let Uttarakhand guide your next great adventure.
