5 Treks To Explore in Uttarakhand

Often referred to as “Devbhoomi” or the “Land of the Gods,” Uttarakhand is home to some of the most iconic treks in the Himalayas. The state boasts numerous ancient Hindu temples and pilgrimage centers, including Badrinath, Kedarnath, the revered Char Dham, and the Panch Kedar.

Blessed with the majestic beauty of the Himalayas, Uttarakhand is rich in biodiversity, sheltering rare and endangered flora and fauna. As the geographical heart of the Himalayan range, it features pristine glaciers like the Gangotri Glacier, towering peaks such as Nanda Devi, rolling alpine meadows (bugyals), and lush forests. The state shares borders with Nepal and Tibet, and its treks offer a blend of raw adventure and spiritual serenity.
Best Time to Trek in Uttarakhand

The ideal months for trekking are from April to June and October to March, with the monsoon season (July to September) best avoided except for the Valley of Flowers Trek, which is in full bloom during the rains.

# Kedarkantha Trek

Kedarkantha is one of the most popular winter treks in Uttarakhand, known for its scenic beauty and beginner-friendly trail. Located in the Western Garhwal region (Uttarkashi district), the trek starts from Sankri village, which lies at an altitude of 6,400 feet.

Trek distance: 20 km

Maximum altitude: 3,810 meters

Best time: December to April for snow

The trail takes you through dense pine forests, snowy meadows, and offers breathtaking views of peaks like Swargarohini, Kala Nag, Bandarpoonch, and Ranglana. Sunrises and sunsets here are truly unforgettable. The final summit push is slightly challenging but immensely rewarding. Trekkers descend via Hargaon, completing a scenic circuit back to Sankri.

# Valley of Flowers Trek

Located in Chamoli district, the Valley of Flowers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for nature lovers. The alpine valley bursts into a vibrant tapestry of colors during the monsoon, making July to early September the best time to visit.

Valley dimensions: 2 km wide and 8 km long

Altitude: ~3,658 meters

Start your journey from Haridwar and drive to Govindghat via Joshimath. The trek begins from Govindghat to Ghangaria (14 km), followed by a shorter 3 km trek to the valley. You'll witness rare Himalayan flowers, and might even spot endangered species like the Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, and Asiatic Black Bear.

# Deoria Tal Trek

Deoria Tal, at an elevation of 2,438 meters, is a tranquil high-altitude lake that mirrors the snow-clad peaks of Chaukhamba and Kedarnath ranges. It lies within the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary.

Trek start: Sari village (190 km from Haridwar/Rishikesh)

Trek duration: 1 hour (3 km)

Camping: Allowed nearby, not at the lake

The serene lake, surrounded by meadows and forests, is a haven for bird watchers and nature photographers.

# Har Ki Dun Trek

Known as the "Valley of Gods" or "Stairway to Heaven," Har Ki Dun is a cradle-shaped valley nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas.

Altitude: 3,566 meters

Trek duration: 5–7 days

Best time: March to June, and September to December

Start from Haridwar, reach Sankri, and then Taluka—your trek’s starting point. The trail offers a perfect mix of alpine meadows, pine forests, and cultural exposure to remote mountain villages.

# Brahmatal Trek

Brahmatal is one of the finest winter treks, offering panoramic views of Himalayan giants like Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti.

Maximum altitude: 3,700 meters

Best time: December to March

Base village: Lohajung (225 km from Kathgodam)

The trek route passes through deep forests of oak and fir, tranquil frozen lakes, and snow-covered trails. It’s a great pick for those who want a winter adventure with moderate difficulty.

These treks not only offer breathtaking vistas but also a profound sense of peace, making Uttarakhand a must-visit for every trekking enthusiast.