The first shower of the monsoon brings with it not just respite from the scorching heat but also breathes life to nature’s lush foliage. The season is also one of the best times of the year to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the mountains, especially those of Uttarakhand because it is during this period that the state celebrates some of its most beautiful festivals – be it the Shivaratri festivities in Kangra and Chamba, the Harel festival that marks the beginning of the monsoon or the Nandashtami festival that is celebrated by the indigenous Bhotiya community residing in the northern parts of the state. Here are 5 picturesque trekking routes that offer the best of nature and local culture during the rainy season.
Valley Of Flowers Trek
The roaring streams and the mountains laden with flowers make for a great trek. The Valley of Flowers Trek is one of the most popular treks in India. This trek is a famous trick during monsoons, as the flowers appear most vibrant during the rains. More than 500 flowers bloom during the monsoon season, including the rare Himalayan Brahmakamal. The valley is one of the oldest trekking routes in India. Compared to other climbs, this trek is quite long, including the steep and challenging hike to Hemkund Sahib. On the way to Hemkund Sahib, you enter the alpine region and get a panoramic view of Ghangaria and the Valley of Flowers.
The beautiful valley is situated at an altitude of 3600 meters above sea level, and every ten steps introduce you to different flowers. At Hemkund Sahib, it envelops you in peace and fills you with wonder and belief about the creation of nature and the incredible journey that it takes. He gives what man does to experience it. ,
Region: Chamoli
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 7 days
Nag Tibba Trek
Nag Tibba Trek is one of the quickest and most famous treks in the Garhwal Himalayas. This Trek becomes very beautiful during monsoon, as the roads become green and beautiful. This Trek is the highest Trek of the Nag Tibba range, situated at 3022 meters. An easy-moderate trek is ideal for beginners and is one of the few treks where you can witness stunning sunsets. If you are blessed, you can spot the vast snow-capped peaks of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, Shrikant, and Gangotri.
Region: Tehri-Garhwal
Difficulty: Easy-Medium
Duration: 2 days
Nanda Devi National Park Trek
Nanda Devi National Park Trek is one of the most spectacular treks in the Himalayas. It is dominated by the Nanda Devi Peak, a natural remembrance and the second highest peak in India.
Nanda Devi National Park forms the core area of the more fantastic Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. However, the peak monsoon may not be the ideal time to start a trekking expedition in this beautiful region of the Himalayas, dotted with the divine presence of rhododendron, birch, and juniper forests. Late August to early September, when the rains are less heavy, is a golden time to embark on an adventure here. And if you are blessed, you might even spot musk deer, black bear, and blue sheep. The area is also home to the elusive snow leopard. But the pas de résistance of this trek is the route which, despite being moderately complex, offers unmatched views of the surrounding peaks – Bethertoli, Dunagiri, Changbang, Trishul, Nanda Devi East, and Nanda Devi West.
Region: Chamoliko
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 6 days
Chopta Chandrashila Trek
Chandrashila Trek, at an altitude of 12,083 feet, is one of the most suitable treks for beginners, with breathtaking summit views of Kedar, Chaukhamba, and the Himalayas. A visit to the sacred Tughnath Temple, famous for being the tallest Shiva temple in the world, gives you a vantage point in the trek.
The trek’s journey takes you through Rishikesh, Sari, and Chopta, and the path is surrounded by rich patches of deodar, oak, and rhododendron. When here you can also enjoy bird-watching activities and picnics by the lake. Don’t miss out on the golden-breasted eagles, which are a fascinating view from the summit.
Region: Rudraprayag
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Duration: 6 – 7 days
Dayara Bygyal Trek
If you want to involve in some fun adventures during an extended vacation, then the Daira Bugyal trek can be a good start. Experienced or novice, this trek is for all kinds of people and is the most popular trek during the rainy season.
Dayara Bugyal Trek passes through dense forests at various places and ends in lush green meadows and open skies.
Trekking trails reveal vast meadows, alpine lakes, and trickling streams that soothe the senses with a sylvan symphony. The wondrous grasslands of Dayara Bugyal are locked in the embrace of the Himalayas and make for a perfect long weekend trek. Those who wander in this world of untouched beauty give up more than they want.
Region: Uttarkashi
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Duration: 6 – 7 days
