The best hikes in Uttarakhand: next-level hiking in the Land of the Gods

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    Uttarakhand is one of the northern states in India, nicknamed the Land of the Gods. There are many Hindu temples and pilgrimage centres. Its amazing scenery offers you lots of amazing places to explore. Have a look at these amazing hikes in Uttarakhand, the perfect trekking destination in India.

    There are so many hiking landing places in the state of Uttarakhand. Before exploring them, just have a look at some of them which are really great and you can have an unforgettable and mesmerizing experience by visiting them.

    Valley of Flowers National Park: unique and impressive

    The most impressive trekking destination on this list is the Valley Of Flowers. This is a must-visit destination in Uttarakhand, India. It provides an amazing backdrop for an incredible hike. Valley of Flowers is affluent and prosperous in diversified vegetation, foliage and animals. It is the perfect destination for nature lovers and fans of amazing scenery created by Mother Nature.

    Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand India - Sandip (PD)
    Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand, India | photo: Sandip

    Valley of Flowers is located in the district of Chamoli. In 1982, it was awarded the status of a national park. And, presently it is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization global legacy area.

    It is the second central sector of the Biosphere Reserve named Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. It has several falls and greyish icebergs that impress visitors every step of the trail. Ghangaria is a small town, 13 kilometres from Govindghat, which is the endmost human habitat on the route to Valley Of Flowers.

    Valley Of Flowers interchanges its shades all over the season. The reason behind this interchange is that it blossoms various types of flowers that take on various shades as the tempo changes from time to time. This place should be explored by each and every traveller. You can have a lot of fun there. It’s a place to relax and explore. Here, you can have a great time.

    Kedar Tal Trek: almost perfection

    The second best hiking landing place in the state of Uttarakhand is the Kedar Tal Trek. This is a must-see for any kind of traveller. Kedar Tal Trek is located close to Gangotri. It is the most preferred landing place in the state of Uttarakhand.

    An amazing pond is located close to the iceberg named Kedar Bamak, at the edge of the massive mountaintops. These mountaintops are called Brigupanth and Thalaysagar. You can get unreal and dreamlike views of the surrounding area of Gangotri.

    Continue via the tough hiking path, that guide you to Kedar Kharak. The complete trek will give an opportunity to witness several spectacular vistas. An amazing and once in a lifetime experience. This is the perfect exploration for real pilgrims.

    Sunrise from Kedarkantha Summit - Neha Maheen Mahfin
    Amazing sunrise from Kedarkantha Summit | photo: Neha Maheen Mahfin

    Brahmatal Trek: a great hike in Uttarakhand

    The Brahmatal hike is one of the great hikes in the state of Uttarakhand. It is a frosty hike that has 2 iceberg ponds. This is not a hike for everyone as it is only suitable for experienced hikers.

    This trek is dedicated to the God Brahma. It is a snow-capped mountain, gracefully and magnificently located in midst of the Himalayan ranges. The hike lets you witness the prehistoric oak woodlands. You will also gain knowledge about the old days of God Brahma. The length of this hike is 22 kilometres.

    Although its difficulty level is average, you need to be physically fit and have some hiking experience. The perfect month to do the Brahmatal hike is December. It sure is an amazing hike in Uttarakhand, one that we highly recommend.

    BrahmaTal in Uttarakhand India - Tejashvi Verma
    Brahmatal Trek in Uttarakhand, India | photo: Tejashvi Verma

    Kedarkantha Trek: a popular hike in Uttarakhand

    Let’s not forget about another amazing hike in Uttarakhand: the Kedarkantha Trek. This one ranks among the best hikes in Uttarakhand and is a popular one.

    The views from the crest are splendid on this hike that has been done by some famous hikers from around the world. The trail goes across the pine-woodlands of Govind National Park. The views at the end make it all worth your while.

    Expect to experience unique and distinctive views of the heavenly blue coloured sky, luxuriant pastures, icy routes, attractive towns and serene water bodies. This trek covers a distance of 20 kilometres. A great month to do this hike is the month of November. The beginning point of the hike is Sankri town. Before you think of doing this hike in Uttarakhand, make sure you are fit and healthy as this one isn't for inexperienced hikers as well.

    Pangarchulla Trek: for experienced hikers only

    The last hike in Uttarakhand we want to touch on is the Pangarchulla Trek. Another good hike for experienced hikers to explore and discover this amazing region. The overall hiking distance is 38 kilometres. The best time of the year for this hike is the months of May and October.

    Joshimath is the starting point of the Pangarchulla Trek. This hike is highly recommended if you want to observe the extraordinary views of Hathi, Nanda Devi and Mana (15,069 ft or 4593 metres). You'll have great views of the Garhwal region. The memories of this hike in Uttarakhand will last a lifetime.

    Will you go hiking in the Land of the Gods?

    Uttarakhand in India is such an amazing region if you're into challenging yet amazing hikes. Most hikes require at least a normal level of fitness but some of these are so challenging that you'll need to be an experienced hiker. But once you've reached the top of the mountain and/or the end of the trail you'll bring back heaps of memories and photos that your followers on Instagram will love.

    Just make sure you only leave footprints behind and nothing else. Let's keep the scenery of Uttarakhand in India in pristine condition so other hikers and future generations will be able to enjoy it.


    The guest post was created by our travelling mates BanBanjara, experts in hiking in the Uttarakhand region and specialising in customisable hiking trips.

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