One of the key attractions of monsoon treks is the rare amalgamation of unfamiliar adventure and surreal landscapes. An opportunity to witness the fantastical elements of nature is what drives audacious individuals towards monsoon trekking.
The following five monsoon treks, perfectly encapsulate the beauty and effervescence of trekking. They will force you to consider planning a trip to these amazing locations.
1. Valley Of Flowers Trek
Location: Uttarakhand
Altitude: 14,400 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 6 days
This trek is considered iconic, primarily because of its description in the ancient Indian texts and mythology. However, the enigma surrounding the valley of flowers comes from its abundance of gorgeously scented wildflowers. The whole trail is surrounded by these beautiful flowers, making you feel like you are walking on petals.
The blossoming of the alpine flowers occurs from June to October, and therefore, it is the ideal time to trek and witness this miraculous place. The lush green vegetation in the monsoon will cure your urban fatigue the moment you will open your eyes and smell the wind of this valley.
Usually, this trek is characterized as moderate in terms of difficulty, but it is prudent to not underestimate this trek.
2. Tarsar Marsar Trek
Location: Kashmir
Altitude: 13,201 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 7 days
One of the premier showcases of the exotic beauty of the Kashmir valley is this gem, Tarsar Marsar trek. Tarsar marsar trek has made a name for itself as one of the most scenic monsoon treks in India.
The major attraction of this beautiful trek is the three lakes, Tarsar, Marsar and Sundarsar. These alpine lakes are a sight to behold, and the trek provides a perfect opportunity to explore these mesmerizing lakes.
Among all lake, Marsar Lake is a standout attraction of this trek due to its large size and almond shape. The view of the lake from the far end is spectacularly riveting.
The best time to do this trek is during the monsoon, which starts in July and ends in September. During July the residual snow is still visible on the trail and in August, the lush green imagery will overwhelm your senses. In the first week of September, you are likely to encounter a colourful onset of winter.
Visiting this paradise on earth could be life-changing for you. All you have to do is pack your bags and venture on the adventurous journey.
3. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
Location: Kashmir
Altitude: 13,800 ft
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
Duration: 7 days
One of the truly remarkably beautiful lakes in all of India is the Great Lakes of Kashmir. You will encounter these seven magnificently gorgeous lakes on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.
The signature element of these lakes is the snow patches that give these lakes their uniquely surreal visuals.
The meadows on this trek are equally breathtaking, making this trek worth the effort. This trek is moderately difficult and therefore, requires some preparation on your part.
The highlight of this trek is the alpine lake of Gadsar. Being less travelled among other lakes on this trek, Gadsar retains its naturality for the most part. This pristine lake is enveloped with a delicately large meadow filled with exquisitely colourful wildflowers. The contrast of the blue lake and the colourful flowers makes for striking imagery.
The view from Gadsar pass, which is one of the highest points of this trek is unparalleled. Other highlights include the Sastar meadows and the Gangbal campsites, that are well known for its never-ending treeline and immaculate scenery.
4. Bhrigu Lake Trek
Location: Himachal Pradesh
Altitude: 14,009 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 4 days
The delightfully green meadows of this moderately difficult trek, adds a unique texture to its magnificent glory. The trail will accompany these alpine meadows, all the way up to the Bhrigu lake.
This 4-day trek offers a vivid scenery that combines magnificent mountain peaks, glacial lakes and radiant meadows. Though the trek could be a little challenging, it is perfect for beginners. The trek is easy to access from Manali. And boasts of being one of the best monsoon treks in Himachal Pradesh.
If you want to experience trekking in the thick of the snow, June onwards is the perfect time to trek. Also, the magnificently beautiful Bhrigu lake is still frozen in June, providing you with a brilliant view of the grand and impressive lake. The lake changes its colours and textures with seasons, making it a discovery every time.
What makes the climb on this trek particularly rewarding, are the impeccably virile and endlessly vast stretches of grasslands. Also, the spectacular views of some of the biggest mountains of Manali, adds to the charm of this trek.
You will witness the outstandingly mighty peaks of Ladakhi, Shitidhar and Hanuman Tibba while walking through the grasslands. On the top, you will encounter Indrasen and Deo Tibba as well.
5. Hampta Pass Trek
Location: Himachal Pradesh
Altitude: 14,065 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 6 days
The last trek on this list is an absolute delight, particularly for adventure seekers and trekking enthusiasts.
The first campsite at Jobra kicks off the adventure, which accelerates at the next campsite at Jwara. This second campsite is the home for the phenomenal wildflower meadow. The trail then leads you to Balu Ka Gera and the desert Oasis of Shea Goru.
Needless to say, with so many different landscapes packed into a short trek of 6 days, you are getting more bang for your buck. However, these drastic changes in the scenery are just the beginning, there are a whole lot more for you to discover on this singular trek.
The pass-crossing at the Hampa pass is the ultimate attraction of this trek. The trail transverses out of lush green valleys of Kullu to a perpendicular overhang, placed high up in the mountains. The view from above is nothing short of cinematic. The marvellous panoramic vision of the Lahaul valley and the nearby mountains will leave you awestruck. But you have to put an effort to earn these spectacular views. This moderately difficult trek can be a bit demanding at some points.
Going through this list, you are likely to get enticed into planning your monsoon expedition. The thing to keep in mind is to prepare yourself for the strenuous trails of these treks. A little bit of preparation will enhance your enjoyment of this wonderful journey.