Countdown of the top autumn treks, Kashmir season commences and much more

To make you a well-planned trekker, we are here to help you with Top 20 Autumn Treks that fill their space in advance by trek junkies. After a careful weighing of the reasons, we have made your wish list for autumn treks. 

We also have been receiving endless number of queries about Kashmir Great Lakes and Valley of Flower treks commencement and we totally sense the excitement around it. Since last week there has been news about heavy rains and cloudbursts in Himachal leading to contemplation of trekking, we are here to clear all your doubts. We want to assure you that we will inform you about concluding updates from State Governments and not indulge in false news. Trekking operations are now resumed in Himachal Pradesh as we are in a much safer place now.

By the same token, we are bringing the latest updates on what is happening in the Himalayan region. The heavenly Kashmir is now accessible after 2019 - a long awaited gap. Our trekkers have already got the ball rolling by trekking through Sonmarg slopes for the Kashmir Great Lakes trek and Tarsar Marsar has also begun with utmost zeal. 

We spot newbies, fairly experienced and advanced trekkers daily on our social media verticals getting curious about upcoming treks which is why we have classified the most happening autumn treks into three categories:

1. Beginners Friendly: The ones who are just stepping into the game of trekking

2. Fairly moderate: The ones who have done 1 or 2 treks in the past.

3. Experienced: Trek junkies who have been trekking since long and are fit enough for long trails treks.

Read through the end of the mail for some Monsoon Hiking tips and what factors you should consider for selecting a trekking company for your mountain excursion. 

Top 20 Autumn treks in India

What remains after being washed out by rains is the bewitching efflorescence that makes Himalayan slopes a dreamy wonderland. Bathed in showers of monsoon and shedding the snow layers of winters, autumn brings unprecedented landscapes. All of the trails that remain closed in winters or rainy seasons are accessible during this time. 

The incredible views come to sight only for a short span of just two months (September and October) every year. Therefore, coming to the Himalayas in this season is a perfect choice. And if you are confused, which mind-blowing trek to go with? We have come with this detailed guide of the top 20 post-monsoon trails categorized from easy to difficult grades.   

Easy treks

Chopta Chandrashila Deoriatal Trek

We start with an all-rounder trek which is practically open throughout the year. It is closed only during the peak rainy season. Owing to its religious significance, Tungnath is famous as the local pilgrim spot. Tungnath is the highest linga of India and it is also one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Apart from this Deoriatal, reflections of Chaukhamba in the tal, Chopta and the path flourished with red-pink rhododendrons make this trek even more alluring.  

The trek begins from Rishikesh and can be completed in 5 days which goes up to 13,000 feet.  

Kareri Lake

Kareri lake has now become known as a weekend trek. The trail is remarkable as it lies in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, a rare trek in this part of the state far from Spiti and Kullu valleys. Kareri is fed by streams from Minkiani peak and the path up to is through lush meadows, bouldery paths and a lot of exciting views.

Being a weekend excursion, the trek is of only 3 days. It begins from Dharamshala and goes up to 10,000 feet. This hike is hence recommended to novice outdoor enthusiasts who haven’t done trekking before, also for kids!

Bhrigu Lake

Another lake trek of Himachal lies in the Kullu region. Bhrigu trek has notable scenes of snow-capped mountains, lush meadows and verdant rich forests. The distant spectacles are of Dhauladhar mountains including  Seven Sister peaks, Deo Tibba and extensive Pir Panjal range. Living up to its name of being a Kullu trail you can see picturesque green meadows and dense forests up to the last day of the trek. The summit has a peculiar view of a silent Bhrigu lake, soaring clouds and a stunning backdrop of blue-white peaks.

Bhrigu lake is at 14,000 feet elevation and can be reached in 4 days of hiking. The trail is an easy grade yet complete ascending path. 

Dayara Bugyal Trek

Another grassland trek of Uttarakhand has become a favourite of kids and family treks in the last few years. Thanks to an easy hike with camping between dense forests, paths decorated with flowers bloomed on the meadows and walking under the shadow of Bandarpoonch and Shrikanth peaks. These two big mountains never go out of sight. 

 The trek starts from Dehradun and in 6 days there is steady height gain up to 12,000 feet making it less prone to AMS.

Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek

Enough of the lakes; let's thrive for the enthralling Greenlands of the Garhwal Himalayas. Ali Bedni is an absolute meadow treat. Most consider this a replacement for the Roopkund trek but it is not. The trek is easy and has less height gain compared to Roopkund. The trail is bundled with rampant grasslands and Ghairoli Patal forests - one after another which will not end until you get tired walking. 

 With just 11,000 feet of height gain, this easy trek starts from Lohajung of Uttarakhand. 

Moderate Treks

Kuari Pass

You may know this one as the Winter Kuari Pass trek. Because it has been the reigning winter hike for years now. Going through the famous Lord Curzon trail, Khullara pastures and Gurson Bugyal. The top is known for panoramic views of 7000-meter peaks like Kamet, Nanda Devi, Trishul and Chaukhamba. If you are a to-be mountaineer this will feed your mountain climbing visions. 

 Kuari pass is of moderate grade trek with a height gain of 12,000 feet in the span of 6 days. The hike begins from Joshimath and gradually heads to the Garhwali mountains.   

Sandakphu Trek

Sandakphu is the only trek of West Bengal hence has phenomenal importance which makes it another popular and all-rounder trek. Apart from the rhododendrons and lively landscapes of summer and autumn, the trek is famous for its winter landscapes too. It is one of the rarest treks of India that shows the sight of Mount Everest, Lhotse and Kanchenjunga (three 8000 meters peaks) in one effort. The snake-like trail passes through Singalila National Park and the Indo-Nepal border. If you are looking for a unique hiking experience then Sandakphu must be your choice as it shows the lifestyles of Bhutan, Nepal and India. You get to stay in wooden homestays and taste mixed cuisines. 

 The hike starts from Bagdogra and NJP and the maximum altitude is 12,000 feet. 

Pindari Glacier Trek

One of the rarest and easily accessible glaciers, the Pindari glacier accentuates this less familiar hike. The glacier lies in the Nanda Devi National Park and the top is like standing at one hand distance from the entire Nanda Devi range. The trail goes through the less frequently travelled Kumaon region, so you can witness the local culture and typical Kumaoni attire and cuisines. Though the trail is easy it has the thrill of crossing the moraine filled glacier basin. 

The trek starts from Kathgodam and is for 7 days. The maximum altitude of the hike is 12,000 feet. Therefore this trek is best for family or kids to venture into the wild Himalayas. 

Har ki Doon

Har Ki Dun valley or the valley of Gods lies in Uttarkashi district which is flanked by Jaundhar glacier and Swargarohini peaks. Har Ki Dun watershed area is the origin of the Yamuna River System. In autumn the highland meadows bloom to their distinctive beauty. Despite being loved for winters Har Ki Doon reveals a whole new vibrant world. Osla village with 5000-year-old wooden architecture is also an attraction for many. 

Kedarkantha Trek

Kedarkantha is one such trek that probably needs no explanation. It is the most loved Himalayan trek lying in the Garhwal range.  Juda Ka Talab, the frozen lake along the way will amaze you. Even though it is easy getting to the Kedarkantha top is not a piece of cake. Crunched feet in knee-deep snow, skin pricking cold, snow smothered summit walk and waking up at midnight for the final hike is what really makes Kedarkantha the best of the season!

This wonderful hike can be completed in 6 days with the head at 12,000 feet.

Brahmatal Trek

The next in line after Kedarkantha is the Brahmatal lake trek. Again a preferred choice amongst the hiking community, this is a supreme treat for winters. The lambent light reflecting from the ice sheets of Brahmatal lake will steal your heart. It will be nothing you might have seen before. Snow-whipped Nanda Ghunti and Trishul peaks perched distantly can be seen on this trek. 

Brahmatal trek begins from Lohajung and just like its contemporaries the height gain is 12,000 feet in 6 days.

Difficult treks

Buran Ghati Trek

Now introducing the tough high pass treks of autumn. Buran makes the first entry as it is of moderate to difficult terrain. The type of trail seems negligible after the lightning bolt moment as you rappel from the 500 feet ice wall at the summit. Climbing up may sound less fun compared to descending this way. Additional joy follows with huge snow ground crossing, spirit refreshing greenlands and diamond-like Chandranahan lake. 

In 7 days you will reach the pass at 15,000 feet. The hike commences from Shimla. 

Kedartal Trek

Another Gangotri child is the Kedartal trek. Most of you must have never heard of this name as it is an offbeat jaunt with a bag full of taxing climbs and stellar sights. The highlight of the trek is the glistering reflection of Thalay Sagar mountain in emerald Kedartal lake. Camping at this monastery-quiet site will be cosmic. 

The strainful and peaceful hike ends at 15,500 feet with 7 full days of joyous moments. 

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

As the name suggests you will touch the pious Tapovan grounds while tasting the saccharine waters of the Ganges originating from Gomukh. You might have guessed that the hike dwells in the Gangotri area and is an enduring trek. The trail comprises rocky patches, moraine crossing, slippery glacier walks and steep ascents. If you are looking for an adventure clubbed with religious prominence then Gomukh Tapovan must be your choice.

The highest point of the trek is 14,000 feet that lie at the foot of Shivling peak. 

Rupin Pass Trek

If you want to document some of the protected cultures of the Himalayas then Rupin must be on your list. The favoured Trans-Himalayan path connecting Himachal and Uttarakhand states, Rupin pass is a bag full of extraordinary elements. Jhaka, the hanging village, tons of waterfalls, orangish vibrant flowers, wooden marvels constructed centuries ago, glacier walks and awe-striking topography. Rupin Pass will suffice all your dreams of a Himalayan excursion.

The trek starts from Sankri in Uttarakhand and ends in Shimla of Himachal Pradesh. In 7 days you get a height gain of 15,000 feet.

Goechala Trek

The flag bearer trek of Sikkim goes to the base of Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak. Gleaming sunrise on the Kanchenjunga, known as the Sleeping Buddha will be a eureka moment for you. The entire terrain keeps changing every day with distinct landscapes at every turn. Rhododendrons, rivers flowing, Samiti and Goechala lakes, Mt. Kabru views and steep climbs come in a bundle with the Goechala trek.

This marvellous hike comes in a pack of 11 days for 16,000 feet height gain.

Annapurna Base camp trek

Annapurna is the most deadly 8000-meter mountain and also the 10th highest peak in the world. However, reaching the base of the mountain is not that gruelling. The Machapuchare peak with remarkable moonlit skies will leave you mesmerized. A walk-through Nepali mountain, enjoying their culture and food and lots of fun is what makes ABC a commendable journey.

In just 9 days you can touch Annapurna base at 13,000 feet. 

Bali Pass

Introducing yet another arduous, unknown and outstanding trail with Bali pass. The pass connects Har ki Doon and Ruinsara valley. The trail crosses Yumnotri and it is believed that crossing the pass the other end goes to Kedarnath (both Yumntori and Kedarnath are Char Dhams). With so many prevalent locations, the Bali pass is a perfect autumn trek.

The tough trek is 8 days and goes to 16,000 feet.

Everest Base camp

EBC is considered the toughest trek with the maximum altitude of 18,000 feet to the world’s highest mountain, Everest. EBC is the most famous trek in the world. The Base Camp is like a village full of mountain lovers, mountaineers and trekkers. EBC is a difficult trek hence you must be well prepared. Kala Patthar is also covered during this hike. 

With 13 days of adventure, EBC is as good as an expedition itself.

Advanced – Expeditions

Rudugaira Peak Expedition

Rudugaira is only at 5000 meters elevation but falls in the peak climbing category because of advanced techniques to reach the summit. Hence, this should be your first choice if you are stepping into the mountaineering field. The peak lies in the Gangotri region and is preferred for the closest sights of Gangotri peaks. The scary wide crevasses of the Gangotri peaks are one of the sought-after elements by a mountaineer.

In the 2021 autumn, you can take your hiking level to a higher level by learning the load ferry and roping up methods of mountaineering through the Rudugaira peak expedition.

This extensive list of the treks are hideaways of the endearing autumn period. Now is the time to register to get on these Eden-green playgrounds of the Himalayas.