India hiking trails: Best routes, safety tips, and where to go
When you think of India hiking trails, trekking routes across India’s mountains, forests, and high-altitude plateaus that attract both locals and international travelers. Also known as trekking paths in India, these trails range from gentle forest walks to brutal mountain climbs that test endurance and skill. India isn’t just about temples and beaches—it’s home to some of the most dramatic and diverse hiking terrain on Earth. From the snow-capped peaks of Ladakh to the misty hills of Kerala, every region offers something different.
Many of these trails connect to ancient pilgrimage routes, like the Kedarnath trek, a high-altitude pilgrimage path in Uttarakhand that leads to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, or the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Himalayas known for its wildflower meadows and quiet solitude. Then there are the lesser-known gems like the Sandakphu trail, a ridge walk in West Bengal that gives you views of Everest and Kanchenjunga without needing a permit. These aren’t just walks—they’re journeys through culture, climate, and raw nature.
But not all trails are safe year-round. Monsoons turn paths into mudslides, altitude sickness hits fast above 3,000 meters, and solo treks in remote areas can turn dangerous without proper gear or local guides. That’s why knowing which situations to avoid—like hiking alone in the Himalayas during winter or skipping acclimatization days—is just as important as picking the right trail. The posts below cover real stories from hikers who’ve been there: what went wrong, what worked, and how to prepare so you don’t end up stranded.
You’ll find guides on the toughest routes in Ladakh, the safest trails in South India, gear checklists for monsoon hikes, and why some of the most beautiful paths are also the most crowded. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a 10-day trek through the Western Ghats, this collection gives you the no-fluff, real-world advice you actually need.
