When it comes to trekking, there is nothing that is quite as special as going on an adventure during monsoon in the Himalayas. Aside from the special charm it offers, there is rhythm from the patter of falling rain, which makes the trek even better. Clouds hang low and you will be surrounded by glistening green valleys that are studded with exquisite flowers and plants. For those who are looking for adventure in the Himalayas, there is nothing that beats the experience of trekking during the monsoon season.
When July and August come around, summer becomes a thing of the past and the blistering sun makes way for much-welcomed glistening raindrops. The monsoon rain transforms the skies in the Himalayas and leaves the air cleaner and fresher. While it is true that the rain washes away a few trekking routes, there are, nevertheless, some trails that are still very safe and is perfect for an exciting adventure. Here is a look at 9 exciting treks in the Himalayas you should not miss this monsoon.
Valley of Flowers National Park
Located within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve in Uttarakhand, the valley of Flowers trek is one of the most popular monsoon treks in the Himalayas. This trek’s core zone offers the most amazing vistas of snow-capped mountains and incomparable natural beauty. True to its name, the Valley of Flowers is home to about 300 species of endemic alpine flowers, including a couple of rare ones like the blue Himalayan Poppy, Geranium, Anemone, and Potentilla.
- Click here to see the detailed itineraries for Valley of Flowers Trek
Tarsar Marsar Lake
If you are in Jammu & Kashmir during the monsoon season, there is one trek you should not miss – the Tarsar Marsar Lake trek. It is without a doubt one of the most alluring Himalayan treks. You will go on an exciting journey that takes you to the breathtaking twin lakes, Tarsar and Marsar that are surrounded by the Kolahoi Mountain’s peaks. The contrasting landscape in this region is what makes it one of the best monsoon treks in the Himalayas.
Hampta Pass
With a maximum altitude of roughly 14,000 feet, the Hampta Pass trek in Himachal Pradesh is a moderate-level trek that is perfect for experienced trekkers as well as those without much experience. The colorful, mesmerizing flowers on the valley bed and snow-capped peaks in the background give you a surreal experience. You can get more fun and excitement by trekking further to Chandratal.
- Click here to see the detailed itineraries for Hampta Pass Trek
Spiti Valley
Another amazing trek in Himachal Pradesh, the Spiti Valley offers you jaw-dropping sights and glimpse into the region’s history and culture. On this excursion, you can see the high-altitude villages of the region and many monasteries that you will love exploring. What’s more? This is where you can find precious fossils that date back to the time when this part of the state was covered by the Tethys Sea!
Rupin Pass
If you are a seasoned trekker who is looking for a little more excitement and challenge than the average trekker, you will find the perfect trekking route in Rupin Pass in Uttarakhand. Your inner daredevil will love the possibility of needing to use ropes to cross patches of ice – it adds a thrilling element to your adventure. As you make your way across this amazing trekking route, you will find plenty of breathtaking sights to make your trip even more special. This is one trek you should not miss during monsoon in the Himalayas.
Kashmir Great Lakes
When you go on a high-altitude trek, it is normal to spot one, or perhaps two, alpine lakes. But how would you feel being able to see seven majestic alpine lakes day after day during your trek? The Kashmir Great Lakes trek gives you exactly that, ensuring an unforgettable experience. With a maximum altitude of 13,800 feet, the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is relatively new, giving you an unforgettable view of never-ending emerald-green meadows and pristine blue lakes.
- Click here to see the detailed itineraries for Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
Bhrigu Lake
What makes the Bhrigu Lake trek a must when you are in Manali? Well, for one, the high-altitude alpine lake is a sight that you will not forget no matter what time of year it is. Frozen from May to July, it turns into a turquoise blue-green lake as the monsoon season rolls in. It is believed that Bhrigu Lake changes color every season, but it is at its most splendid during the rainy season. This is an easy trek, making it an ideal choice for first timers as well as experienced trekkers.
Markha Valley
If you are in Ladakh and looking for an exciting trekking excursion, you should go for the Markha valley trek. A cultural retreat in the “Land of Llamas,” Markha Valley gives you an opportunity to experience the culture in Leh’s mountains and get a first-hand look at the stunning natural sights that surround this region. While on this trek, the highest altitude you will climb is 5,200 meters at Kongmaru La. This is where you will get the grandest views of the Zanskar and Karakoram Ranges.
Pin Bhaba Pass
Also known as Tarik La, the Pin Bhaba Pass is located at the head of a breathtaking alpine valley and marks the division of Himachal Pradesh’s forests and Spiti’s arid expanse of land. When you go on this route, you will follow the famous shepherd trail between the beautifully lush Kinnaur valley and the contrasting stark region of Pin valley over the 16,125-foot Bhaba Pass. You will see dramatic changes in the landscape, from majestic pine and cedar forests to barren, lonely lands. The Pin Bhaba Pass trek is one of the most interesting monsoon treks in the Himalayas.
As you can see, there is no shortage of trekking routes in the Himalayas, whether you are a beginner or an experienced trekker. To add a touch of excitement and get a memorable view of the landscapes, you should definitely make it a point to go on your adventure during the rainy season. You will have, without a doubt, one of the most incredible experiences of your life by going on a monsoon trek in the Himalayas.
- Must Read: Popular Winter Treks in India
