Popular Trekking in India: Best Trails, Difficulty Levels, and Where to Start

When people talk about popular trekking in India, a diverse range of high-altitude trails, forest paths, and mountain passes that attract both beginners and seasoned hikers across the country. Also known as Indian trekking routes, it’s not just about climbing—it’s about walking through villages, past ancient temples, and into skies so clear you can count the stars. India doesn’t have one famous trail. It has dozens, each with its own rhythm, challenge, and reward.

Some of the most loved treks are surprisingly gentle. Kuari Pass, a well-marked, low-risk Himalayan trail in Uttarakhand with panoramic views of Nanda Devi and other peaks is perfect if you’ve never worn hiking boots before. Others, like Kailash Mansarovar, a grueling pilgrimage route in the remote Himalayas that tests endurance with extreme altitude and freezing winds, are for those who’ve already summited other peaks. You don’t need to be an athlete to start trekking here—you just need the right trail.

Manali is the city with the most hiking trails in India, offering over 50 routes within a 100-km radius. From the easy walk to Hampta Pass to the tough climb to Chandratal Lake, there’s a path for every pace. Meanwhile, in the south, the Western Ghats hide quiet, moss-covered trails like the Kudremukh trek, where you’ll see waterfalls and rare birds without the crowds. Even the famous Roopkund trek, known for its mysterious skeletons, isn’t the hardest anymore—just the most talked about.

What makes trekking in India different from other countries? It’s the mix. You’ll pass through villages where children wave, stop at tea stalls run by grandmothers, and sleep under stars with nothing but your tent and a warm blanket. No one asks for your permit until you hit the high passes—and even then, it’s often just a formality. The real challenge isn’t the altitude. It’s deciding which trail to pick first.

Some treks are best in spring, others in autumn. Summer brings monsoon rains to the south, while winter turns the Himalayas into a frozen maze. You’ll find guides, gear rentals, and even homestays along most popular routes. But the best advice? Don’t rush. Walk slow. Listen. The mountains don’t care how fast you go—they’re still there tomorrow.

Below, you’ll find real stories from people who’ve walked these trails—the ones who got lost, the ones who cried at sunrise, the ones who came back just to do it again. Whether you’re looking for your first hike or your next big challenge, there’s a trail here waiting for you.