Trekking, Skiing & Mountaineering

Trekking, skiing and mountaineering facts

• Regions suitable- Himalayas deserts, Kashmir valley, Shimla

• States- Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir, Uttaranchal and western Uttar Pradesh

• Best time- season for the same vary hence it is advisable to consult those locals of the region

Extreme trekking and mountaineering enthusiast never had it so much before. The Himalayas that spreads all over North India offer excellent opportunities to serious trekkers and mountaineers. In some areas extreme trekking and mountaineering permits may be required. These permits can be easily organized by tour operators. Right now the dramatic Himalayan deserts of Ladakh and the lush Garhwal hills are especially popular with trekkies. However, extreme trekking on your own in the treacherous Himalayas is strictly not recommended. It is better to organize your trek through local based companies who know their terrain and business better. Seasons for extreme trekking vary in different areas and the local authorities will be able to advice you on this. Several local tour operators offer extreme trekking equipment and reliable guides.

Mountaineering Adventure- Mountaineering seasons also vary in various places. The Mountaineering Institute and Allied Sports Complex, about a km out of Manali in Himachal Pradesh, will offer assistance to anyone interested in extreme mountaineering in that part of the Himalayas.

Diverse Skiing Regions of India- At one time you could have skied right in the Kashmir valley, in Gulmarg – though not now due to the troubled political situation there have been considerable restrictions put in place by authorities. The premier extreme skiing resort now is in Auli near Josimath (western UP). The season is from January to March-end. Other extreme skiing resorts are at Solang, near Manali, and in Kufri and Narkanda near Shimla. These are however not very developed. In Solang Valley, near Manali you can also do ballooning; the season for this is usually in summer.

India with its dominating crown of the Himalayan Mountain ranges is one of the preferred trekking destinations in South Asia. However to the single the regions in North eastern and western region solely for trekking in India would be an understatement. The snow capped mountain of lush green lynches in parts of the country also make up for good trekking paths and are also known for breathtaking scenery. The numerous peaks nestled in the might mountainous regions are also suited for trekking. Without the slightest doubt the best places for trekking in India include the Kumaon and Garwhal region apart from that Chamba, Manali Ladakh, Zanskar, Zahul, Spiti, Kulu, Kangra, Yuksam and Leh. The other hills destinations that offer a similar if not same trekking experience for travelers include Niligiris of Tamilnadu which are also a favored destination. While these hills are not placed in the altitudes of the Might Mountains ranges in the north there are known for their conducive weather and at the same time plentiful options for trekking. The green hilled Sahayadri mountains in Maharashtra dotted with lakes is also a trekker’s paradise. The region famous for its mountain and monuments is also known for alternative routes and lanes for trekking and walking.

Best time for trekking in India- The best time for trekking in India depends largely on the selected area. However the ideal time for the same can be the months from May to October. In the region of Ladakh most treks are done in the months of July and August to September and conclude by late October. In the region of Darjeeling the best time for the same during the months of May to October. In Arunachal Pradesh, Tamilnadu as well as Maharshtra the best time is from October to February and even March. Maharashtra’s Sahayadri hills are also known for monsoon treks

Major trekking destinations in India

The major trekking destinations in India can be divided as follows

• Western Himalayas

• Eastern Himalayas

• Sahayadri ranges

• Niligiris mountain ranges

Western Himalayas includes the state of Uttaranchal. Gangotri and Yamunthri are popular trek destinations along with Nanda Devi in Kumaon

Eastern Himalayas with Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and the hilly regions of Bengal with its green meadows and tea gardens are one of the exotic trekking destinations in India.

Sahayadri range known as the valley of flowers is a treat not only for trekkers and nature lovers and is known for fascinating mountain treks.

Niligiris mountain ranges- Niligiris mountain trek with it its silvery streams and ecology beauty is paradise for trekkers.