Top 10 Best Hiking Trails in India

Hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of India. Walking along a quiet path with fresh air, green trees, and a spectacular view is incredibly relaxing and provides an amazing adventure. Each trail provides a unique experience where one can meet new people, find local villages to enjoy a few beverages, discover breathtaking mountain views, find hidden waterfalls, and watch nature and all its forms. Hiking is about the experience and not just reaching the top. So, if you are looking to go hiking, this blog helps you explore the top 10 best hiking trails in India that you can visit with your friends and family. So, let’s dive straight into the blog.

List of Top 10 Best Hiking Trails in India 

India has some of the world’s most beautiful hiking trails and is a wonderful place for adventures. Any level of trekker will find the best hiking destinations in India, whether snow-capped or lush green valleys. Here is an overview of these top 10 sites that you must explore when looking to hike: 

1. Triund Hill Trek, Himachal Pradesh

Triund Hill is possibly one of the most visited places adjacent to Dharamshala and is the birthplace of beautiful green forests full of wildflowers and the breathtaking Dhauladhar mountain range. Trekkers here should be prepared for changeable weather conditions, so take warm clothes and raincoats just in case.  On the trail, you will find temples that are very sacred to locals. The Trek starts from Dharamkot, near Bhagsu Nag Temple, and is a 15-minute drive from McLeodganj. Suitable for beginners as a trek, and best to do in summer. 

2. Markha Valley Trek, Ladakh

The Markha Valley Trek is a 6-day trek in Ladakh that provides a view of lovely villages, rivers, and magnificent mountains.  It starts from Chilling village and ends at Shang Sumdo.  The way of the trek is through green fields and wooden bridges, with rocky paths in between.  White-capped peaks like Kang Yatse and Stok Kangri will definitely follow you, and you may be lucky to spot wildlife, including marmots, blue sheep, and even snow leopards in winter as you go.  Your accommodation will be in tents or local homestays, and it is a lovely journey within Hemis National Park.

3. Hampta Pass Trek, Himachal Pradesh

The Hampta Pass trek is an unforgettable adventure that takes you from the lush green Kullu Valley into the barren rocky valley of Lahaul called the Chandra Valley. The trek begins at Jobra near Manali and ends at Chatru, where you will ride to peaceful Chandratal Lake. On your trek, you can expect to see charming green meadows, beautiful waterfalls, and towering snow-capped mountains. This trek can be completed within a single trip and is good for anyone looking to experience a variety of conditions in one trek. The hike has peaceful trails filled with flora, streams, and adventure.

4. Neelkanth Mahadev Trail, Rishikesh

This comprehensive trek is one of the best hiking trails in India that starts at Ram Jhula, Rishikesh, named after the famous iron bridge over the holy Ganges. You will hike to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, a place of worship for many pilgrims. Much of this trek allows you to see beautiful views of the river as you walk through nature, which is an adventure in itself. Again, you will mostly be hiking through steep inclines, so wear proper shoes. You could do it as an “Out-and-Back” trek, or arrange a ride back from Neelkanth Temple. This trek offers a spiritual and adventurous walk suitable for those who love quiet mountain trails. 

5. Kalsubai Peak Trail, Maharashtra

Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra and is a popular place for adventure lovers. The trek is mesmerizing and in season, completely green with birds and flowers. The climb up to the trek consists of narrow iron ladders, which can be a little shaky, but thrilling. It does get crowded on weekends and is busiest around the ladders. The views at the top are lovely all year long, but during monsoon, they are especially stunning. The trek starts from Bari village, which is easily accessible by bus or taxi, and even camping is fun here with friends and family. 

6. Chembra Peak, Kerala

Chembra Peak is located in Wayanad and is best known for the heart-shaped lake on the way up to the trek. The trek is relatively short, but also astonishing, with gorgeous views of hills, clouds, and solid green jungles. It is, therefore, a significant trek for nature lovers and couples. Permission is required from the forest office, which allows only a few people daily. This trek is quite peaceful and is best completed from September to February for the best conditions. 

7. Dzukou Valley Trek, Nagaland

Dzukou Valley is one of the prettiest valleys in Northeast India and one of the best hiking trails in India as well. This valley is full of enchanting green grasses and wildflowers, including the rare pink Dzukou Lily. You can take a longer trek from Viswema or a more vertical trek from Zakhama. You will walk through oak, chestnut, and juniper trees before reaching the top of the valley. There is also a special permit that Indian travelers must obtain when entering Nagaland. This trek is peaceful, colorful, and enjoyable to camp overnight.

8. Doon Valley Trek (Har Ki Doon), Uttarakhand

Har Ki Doon is a beautiful, long valley in the Garhwal Himalayas, India. This trek takes you through forests, meadows, and along with flowers, and peaceful villages like Osla and Seema. You will cross the Tamsa River and walk beside snowy peaks and rivers. The trek is flat in nature and is less steep than many of the high mountain treks in the region. Timing your trek with the dry months will be enjoyable during the trek, as winters can bring snow. You will have the option of completing the trek by staying at forest guest houses or obtaining camping spots under the stars. Therefore, such factors make it one of the best hiking trails in India to visit.

9. Tiger Hill Trek, Darjeeling, West Bengal

Tiger Hill is another popular trekking site near Darjeeling that people hike to for the chance to see the sunrise shining over the mighty Himalayas. At the summit, Mount Kanchenjunga shines in a variety of beautiful colors like pink, yellow, and purple. It is best to arrive there before dawn to see these grand views. After sunrise, you can hike down to Ghoom town, the path is accompanied by tea gardens and lovely views, along with stillness. March – June is the best time to trek to this amazing location.

10. Seven Sisters Trek, Himachal Pradesh

The Seven Sisters Trek will take you to a mountain group in Himachal Pradesh, popularly known as the Seven Sisters. This trek takes you through peaceful, beautiful surroundings with apple orchards and old wooden temples set against the backdrop of pleasant weather for most of the hike. And as you trek, you will enjoy the peaceful and soft mountain air, even hiking through forests and remote villages. The Seven Sisters trek is a significant hike for a beginner or just a calming and mild trekker to get lost in the western Himalayas without climbing.

Conclusion 

The best hiking trails in India will not only challenge you physically, but they are a journey through the heart of nature and culture. Fresh mountain air, stunning views, magnificent landscapes, local cultures, and customs, the hiking trails will help you experience some of the best of what India has to offer. Therefore, one should surely plan a hiking adventure with their friends and family or maybe solo for a calming experience. 

For those looking to explore the best hiking trails in India, Luxury Trails of India, a leading travel service provider, offers professionally crafted trekking packages with a focus on comfort, safety, and experience. We will take care of all your accommodations, guides, permits, etc., and bring the experience to your vacation, with our personalized services and local insights to make your perfect hiking holiday a reality. So, get to experience the beautiful terrain of our nation with the Luxury Trails of India. 

Also Read – Must-See 7 Wonders Of India to Visit in 2025