Secret Trails: Discovering Offbeat Treks in Himachal

TravelHimachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is a treasure trove of breathtaking natural wonders, with towering mountains, lush valleys, pristine rivers, and dense forests. With touristy destinations like Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala drawing tourists year-round, there exists a hidden world of offbeat treks in Himachal.

These relatively unexplored treks offer a different kind of adventure, where you can escape the crowds, and immerse yourself in a unique and rewarding experience. Let’s uncover some of these off-the-radar trails.

Prashar Lake Trek

Nestled at an altitude of 2730 meters, the trail meanders through dense oak and rhododendron forests, offering panoramic views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges. At its heart lies the enchanting Prashar Lake, you’ll find the enchanting Prashar Lake, surrounded by a floating island in the middle. The serene lake holds great spiritual significance and is a sight to behold.

Altitude: 2,730 m

Trek difficulty: Easy to moderate

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Best time to trek: April to June, September to November

Lamadugh Trek

If you’re in Manali, and seeking a day trek that’s off the beaten path, the Lamadugh trek is an ideal choice. It’s a relatively easy trek, making it accessible to first-timers as well. You’ll hike through lush meadows and enjoy the tranquillity of the mountains. The trail offers stunning views of the Manali Valley and the Rohtang Pass.

Altitude: 3,018 m

Trek difficulty: Easy

Duration: 1 day

Best time to trek: May to June, September to October

Sar Pass Trek

The Sar Pass trek promises a thrilling experience for hikers as they traverse through pine forests, serene meadows, and steep slopes. The highlight of this trek is the crossing of the Sar Pass, which is often covered with snow, providing a challenge for trekkers. The sense of accomplishment and the panoramic views make this trail worth every step.

Altitude: 4,220 m

Trek difficulty: Moderate to difficult

Duration: 5 to 6 days

Best time to trek: May to June, September to November

Kugti Pass Trek

Not for the faint-hearted, this adventurous trek takes you through the lush Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary, offering a chance to spot wildlife like Himalayan bears and snow leopards. The high-altitude pass, not to mention its remote setting challenges even the experienced trekkers. However, the panoramic views of the Pir Panjal range and the picturesque trail of the Gaddis (nomadic herders) will be an unforgettable experience.

Altitude: 5,050 m

Trek difficulty: Difficult

Duration: 8 to 10 days

Best time to trek: June to September

Barot Valley Trek

One of the newly found offbeat treks in Himachal, the Barot Valley offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Coined as a “weekend trek” by adventure seekers, this trail takes you through charming villages, apple orchards, and terraced fields. Find your way through the dense oak forests, and lush deodar trees to get a magnificent view of the Dhauladhar range and the Uhl River.

Altitude: 1,819 m

Trek difficulty: Easy

Duration: 1 to 2 days

Best time to trek: March to June, September to November

Indrahar Pass Trek

This relatively unexplored trek starts from McLeod Ganj. From here, you ascend through the dense rhododendron and oak forests towards Triund. As you advance towards Laka Got, the trail becomes steeper and the landscape more dramatic. Camping here is a surreal experience with the Dhauladhar peaks forming a majestic backdrop. The real challenge comes as you ascend to Indrahar Pass, but the panoramic views of the Dhauladhar Range, the Kangra Valley, and the Manimahesh Kailash Peak will be rewarding.

Altitude: 4,342 m

Trek difficulty: Difficult

Duration: 4 to 6 days

Best time to trek: May to June, September to October

These offbeat treks in Himachal offer a plethora of opportunities for adventure enthusiasts amidst the pristine Himalayan landscape. Exploring these hidden treks not only allows you to connect with nature but also provides an opportunity to witness the unspoiled beauty of Himachal Pradesh. So, if you’re seeking an offbeat adventure, consider stepping off the well-trodden paths to create unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of this Himalayan paradise.

Happy trekking!

Banner Image Courtesy Sanket Barik

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About Author

Saurodeep Basak

Saurodeep Basak is a proud wordsmith. He is known for crafting engaging and insightful content related to travel and lifestyle. When not penning down thoughts, he can be found gorging on pre-owned books, capturing people, and planning solo trips.