07 August 2025
The Himalayas have long been the destination to find peace and to come close to mother nature. Every corner of this wonderful land offers breathtaking landscapes, serene trails and a chance to reconnect with nature and the self. Many think that the Himalayas are only a place for experienced mountaineers but they are greatly mistaken, as there is a huge list of Himalayan treks for beginners that are both accessible and awe-inspiring.
If you are a beginner looking for Himalayan Treks to start your journey to explore the Himalayas then you’re at the right place. Here are some trails that are hidden in the mountains of Himachal and Uttrakhand. These trails are perfect for those starting out with Himalayan trekking for beginners, offering shorter durations, moderate altitudes, and well-established paths. Plus, we’ve added essential trekking tips for beginners to help you prepare confidently and trek responsibly. Let’s explore the 10 best treks to begin your journey into the heart of the Indian Himalayas.
Why Beginners Should Choose Himalayan Treks in India
India is known for its geographical diversity, at one corner of this beautiful country you will find the deep blue ocean and on the other corner you find the snow capped Himalayas peaks. This variety can also be found in the treks that this land offers, apart from the hard mountaineering treks the Indian Himalayas has plenty of Himalayan Treks for beginners that offer the same beautiful landscapes but with the ease of travel.
Another big advantage of Himalayan treks for beginners in India is the availability of well-marked, shorter-duration trails that don’t require advanced fitness or technical skills. These easy Himalayan treks are designed to introduce first-timers to high-altitude environments gradually, helping them build confidence and stamina.
Moreover, India’s trekking infrastructure—experienced guides, local homestays, affordable packages, and community support—makes first-time trekking in the Himalayas both safe and enriching. Whether you're a solo traveler, a student, or a family with young adventurers, these treks offer a perfect mix of challenge, discovery, and comfort.
Choosing Himalayan trekking for beginners in India is more than just a vacation—it's a life-changing experience that connects you with nature, culture, and your own inner resilience.
Best Beginner Treks in Uttarakhand
1. Benog Tibba Trek
Key Information:
Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trek Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours (round trip)
Trek Distance: Around 6 to 7 kilometers (round trip)
Starting Point: Cloud’s End, near Mussoorie
Maximum Altitude: Approximately 2,250 meters (7,380 feet)
Best Time to Trek:
March to June: Pleasant temperatures, clear trails, and blooming spring forests
September to early December: Crisp air, clear mountain views, and post-monsoon greenery
What to Expect:
The Benog Tibba trek near Mussoorie is ideal for beginners seeking a short, easy Himalayan hike. It winds through the peaceful Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, passing under tall oak, pine, and rhododendron trees.
The well-marked, gentle trail is perfect for first-time trekkers or families. As you ascend, open clearings offer stunning views of the Yamuna Valley and, on clear days, distant snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
This trek lets you enjoy fresh mountain air, spot local birds and monkeys, and capture beautiful nature photos—all without camping or intense effort.
Since it can be completed in half a day, it’s a perfect, low-key introduction to trekking in Uttarakhand.
2. Kedarkantha Trek
Key Information:
Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trek Duration: 4 to 6 days (including travel from Dehradun)
Trek Distance: Around 20 to 25 kilometers (round trip)
Starting Point: Sankri village, Uttarkashi district
Maximum Altitude: 3,810 meters (12,500 feet)
Best Time to Trek:
December to March – Popular for snow trekking and winter scenery
April to June – Pleasant spring weather with clear mountain views
September to November – Autumn landscapes and fewer crowds
What to Expect:
The Kedarkantha Trek is another popular beginner-friendly Himalayan trek in Uttarakhand. It is known for its manageable trail, beautiful campsites, and rewarding summit views—all perfect for first-time trekkers.
The journey begins in Sankri, a small mountain village surrounded by pine forests. As you climb, the trail takes you through dense forests, open meadows, and finally up to a snowy ridge that leads to the summit. The route is well-marked and offers gradual altitude gain, making it easier for beginners to adjust.
What makes Kedarkantha special is its 360-degree view from the summit. On a clear day, you can see major Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini, Black Peak (Kalanag), and Bandarpoonch. The feeling of reaching the top—especially with snow underfoot—is one of the main highlights.
Trekkers camp at scenic spots like Juda Ka Talab and Base Camp, where you’ll experience clear skies, starlit nights, and a peaceful atmosphere. Even in winter, the trek is safe for beginners if done with a good guide or group.
Whether you're looking for your first snow trek, a group adventure, or just want to try something new, Kedarkantha offers a complete and exciting Himalayan experience with minimal risk and effort.
3. Valley of Flowers Trek
Key Information:
Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 days (including travel from Rishikesh/Haridwar)
Trek Distance: Around 38 to 40 kilometers (round trip)
Starting Point: Govindghat (near Joshimath, Chamoli district)
Maximum Altitude: 4,390 meters (14,400 feet) at Hemkund Sahib
Best Time to Trek:
Mid-July to August – Peak blooming season in the valley
Late June to early September – Ideal for clear weather and full trail access
What to Expect:
The Valley of Flowers Trek is a beginner-friendly gem in Uttarakhand, perfect for nature lovers and first-time hikers. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s famous for its vibrant alpine meadows and rare Himalayan flowers.
The trek starts from Govindghat, with a short drive and an easy walk to Ghangaria, the base village. The well-paved trail is shared by pilgrims heading to Hemkund Sahib and is ideal for anyone with basic fitness.
As you enter the valley, the scenery transforms—lush, colorful fields of blue poppies, orchids, and brahmakamal, framed by snowy peaks and waterfalls. It's a paradise for photography and peaceful walks.
Those seeking a challenge can add the Hemkund Sahib hike, a steep but rewarding climb to a sacred glacial lake.
This trek offers stunning landscapes, easy trails, and no need for prior experience or camping—perfect for beginners looking for a serene Himalayan adventure.
4. Deoban Trek
Key Information:
Trek Difficulty: Easy
Trek Duration: 2 days (can be done as an overnight weekend trek)
Trek Distance: Around 10 kilometers (round trip)
Starting Point: Lokhandi, near Chakrata, Uttarakhand
Maximum Altitude: 2,870 meters (9,400 feet)
Best Time to Trek:
March to June – Cool, green forest trails
September to December – Clear skies and excellent mountain views
What to Expect:
The Deoban Trek is an easy and short weekend trek, ideal for beginners or families looking for a peaceful getaway in the hills. It takes you through quiet pine and deodar forests near Chakrata, with wide mountain views from the top.
The trail is gentle and not very steep, making it perfect for first-timers. From the summit, called Vyas Shikhar, you can see over 50 Himalayan peaks on a clear day, including Nanda Devi and Swargarohini.
Because of its short length and easy terrain, it’s a great option if you're trying trekking for the first time or want to experience the Himalayas without long travel or camping.
5. Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek
Key Information:
Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 days
Trek Distance: Around 23 kilometers (round trip)
Starting Point: Sari village, near Chopta, Uttarakhand
Maximum Altitude: 3,690 meters (12,100 feet) at Chandrashila peak
Best Time to Trek:
April to June – Clear weather and blooming rhododendrons
September to November – Crisp air and great visibility
What to Expect:
The Deoriatal–Chandrashila trek is a wonderful choice for beginners who want a mix of serene lakes, forest trails, and spectacular mountain views. The trail passes through dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron, and leads to Deoriatal, a peaceful alpine lake surrounded by peaks.
The highlight is the climb to Chandrashila, a summit offering panoramic views of famous Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. The final ascent is steep but short, rewarding trekkers with one of the best viewpoints in Uttarakhand.
The trek does not require technical skills or camping equipment, making it accessible for first-timers who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas with comfortable lodges along the way.
Best Beginner Treks in Himachal Pradesh
1. Beas Kund Trek
Key Information
Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 days
Trek Distance: Around 40 kilometers (round trip)
Starting Point: Manali, Himachal Pradesh (near Uttarakhand border)
Maximum Altitude: 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) at Beas Kund
Best Time to Trek:
June to September – Summer months with clear weather and melting snow
Late May and October – Shoulder seasons with fewer crowds
What to Expect:
The Beas Kund trek is ideal for beginners wanting to explore the beautiful landscapes of the Indian Himalayas. The trail passes through lush forests, alpine meadows, and glacial streams, gradually ascending to the Beas Kund—a glacial lake considered the source of the Beas River.
The trek offers stunning views of surrounding peaks such as Friend’s Peak, Deo Tibba, and Indrasan. The terrain is mostly gentle with some moderate climbs, making it suitable for those new to trekking.
The route is well-supported with basic camping facilities, and the trail is easy to follow. It’s a great way to experience the thrill of a Himalayan trek while building confidence and fitness.
2. Jalori Pass Trek
Key Information
Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trek Duration: 3 to 4 days
Trek Distance: Around 25 kilometers (round trip)
Starting Point: Shoja village, Himachal Pradesh
Maximum Altitude: 3,120 meters (10,236 feet) at Jalori Pass
Best Time to Trek:
May to October – Best for clear weather and blooming landscapes
December to February – For experienced beginners interested in snow trekking
What to Expect:
The Jalori Pass trek is perfect for beginners looking for a short and scenic Himalayan hike. The trail winds through dense forests of oak, pine, and deodar trees, leading to the picturesque Jalori Pass, which offers beautiful views of surrounding peaks.
Along the way, you’ll pass charming villages, alpine meadows, and peaceful streams, making the trek a blend of nature and local culture. The trail is well-marked and has gentle slopes, making it easy to follow for first-time trekkers.
At Jalori Pass, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Kullu Valley and snow-capped peaks like Seri and Mural Danda. It’s a great trek for those wanting to experience the Himalayas without the need for technical gear or long days on the trail.
3. Triund Trek
Key Information
Trek Difficulty: Easy
Trek Duration: 1 to 2 days
Trek Distance: Around 9 kilometers (one way)
Starting Point: McLeod Ganj, near Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Maximum Altitude: 2,828 meters (9,280 feet)
Best Time to Trek:
March to June – Pleasant weather and clear views
September to November – Post-monsoon freshness and good visibility
What to Expect:
The Triund trek is one of the easiest and most popular beginner treks in the Indian Himalayas. The trail is well-marked and mostly gentle, passing through beautiful oak and rhododendron forests.
It’s a great day hike or overnight trip for first-time trekkers looking to experience mountain scenery without any technical challenges. From the Triund ridge, you get stunning views of the Dhauladhar range and the Kangra Valley below.
Along the way, you’ll find small tea stalls and resting points, and at the top, basic camping facilities and guesthouses offer a cozy place to stay. The trek offers a perfect combination of nature, tranquility, and accessibility.
4. Kheerganga Trek
Key Information
Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trek Duration: 3 to 4 days
Trek Distance: Around 25 kilometers (round trip)
Starting Point: Barshaini village, Parvati Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Maximum Altitude: 3,050 meters (10,000 feet)
Best Time to Trek:
May to October – Best for pleasant weather and clear trails
Winter (Nov–Feb) – Possible but cold; only for experienced trekkers
What to Expect:
The Kheerganga trek is a very popular and beginner-friendly trek in Himachal Pradesh, known for its beautiful landscapes and natural hot springs at the destination. The trail passes through dense pine and oak forests, quaint villages, and scenic meadows.
Along the way, you will enjoy views of the Parvati Valley and the snow-capped peaks in the distance. The highlight is reaching Kheerganga, where you can relax in natural hot water springs—perfect for soothing tired muscles after the hike.
The trek has gradual inclines with some steeper sections, but overall is manageable for first-timers who have basic fitness. It’s a great combination of nature, adventure, and a rewarding experience without needing technical gear.
5. Indrahar Pass Trek
Key Information
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 days
Trek Distance: Around 38 kilometers (round trip)
Starting Point: McLeod Ganj or Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Maximum Altitude: 4,342 meters (14,245 feet) at Indrahar Pass
Best Time to Trek:
April to June – Clear skies and pleasant weather
September to November – Cool temperatures and fewer crowds
What to Expect:
The Indrahar Pass trek is a popular and rewarding trek for beginners looking to challenge themselves with a moderate Himalayan adventure. The trail starts from McLeod Ganj, passing through beautiful forests of oak, pine, and deodar, along the scenic Chandra River.
You will trek through quaint villages, cross suspension bridges, and climb gradually to the stunning Indrahar Pass at over 4,300 meters. The pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of surrounding peaks and deep valleys.
The trek involves some steep sections and high altitude, so basic fitness and acclimatization are important. Along the way, you’ll camp at beautiful spots like Lahesh Cave and Pandupul (ancient caves with natural rock bridges).
Indrahar Pass is perfect for first-timers wanting to experience real mountain trekking, with a mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and physical challenge.
A Few Tips for First-Time Trekkers
Starting your first trek can be exciting but also a bit overwhelming. To help you prepare well and enjoy the experience safely, here are some essential tips for beginners.
Conclusion
For the expert and the amateur, the Himalayas have something for everyone. For every hard trek that might take years of experience, there is an easy trail that feels as easy as a Sunday walk in the park. These places are best for beginners who want a trek that is easy on their feet without compensating on the views and the spectacular scenery. Trek with Himalayan Daredevils to experience these beginner-friendly routes with expert guidance and unforgettable mountain moments.
