The 5 most challenging treks in India

 

 

Us city folks are deprived of mother nature. Some trekkers like to get away from our busy city lives; to breathe fresh air, feel the moist grass beneath us, take a dip in pristine rivers. Some thrive for the adrenaline rush; they long to feel thr epinephrine rushing through their blood. Some are just there to get fit, both physically and mentally. Some are photographers. The list is never-ending. But, for those of you who are not satisfied with the easy things in life, we bring to you the 5 most challenging treks.

 

1. Auden’s Col, Uttarakhand

 

Duration- 13-15 days

Altitude- 18011.8 Ft.

Best time: June to September

Auden’s Col is named after John Bicknell Auden, who first discovered it in 1939. It is seen to be among the toughest treks but non-technical treks in Uttarakhand. It connects Jogin I (6465m) and Gangotri III (6580m) peaks. More importantly, it connects two of the holiest pilgrimage sites of India, Kedarnath, and Gangotri. This trek may be tough, but is very rewarding- there are numerous awe-inspiring views to look out for. The first of them is the Radugaira peak. Do remember to take a nice look at the mountains visible through this point, as you will be in close proximity with them. After climbing on Auden’s Col, you will come across the magnificent Khatling Glacier. This snow-clad glacier stretches as far as the eye can see, and is one of the most incredible sights. After spending days travelling on the white snow, the Bhilanga valley will come across as a welcome change. Overall, this is one of the most underrated treks of Uttarakhand. 

 

2. Chadar Trek, Ladakh

Duration- 8-10 Days

Altitude- 11,100 Ft. 

Chadar trek is one that is full of physical challenges. It involves trekking over frozen Zanskar, with the river changing colours on an hourly basis. It is the most unique experience. Some say it feels like a trek to the North Pole. The trek starts from Chilling in Leh, and the most preferred time to visit is February when the ice is the most stable. This trek is very different from other treks. The trekkers are advised to follow all the safety guidelines. Campers are also recommended to set up their tents either in the caves along the banks like the locals do or on the part of the ice which is the most stable. One of the most memorable moments of this journey is the Nerak waterfall, which is frozen from the top to the bottom. 

 

3. Pin Parvati Pass, Himachal Pradesh

Duration- 11-13 Days 

Altitude- 17388.45 Ft.

This trek is considered to be the most difficult trek, not just in Himachal Pradesh but in the whole of India. This trek is spread out across 100 km; you will travel through the most spectacular traverses, forests, meadows, and villages. You’ll feel at peace within hours of leaving your comfortable city homes. It too has many unique experiences like the pulley bridge at Tunda Bhij, dense forests near Kheerganga, and glacier near the pass. At the end of the trek, you’ll come across the hot water springs at Parvati Kund. Words cannot describe how good the hot water bath will feel after the tiring trek. 

 

4. Lamkhaga Pass

Duration- 8-10 days

Altitude- 17,320 ft

This trek is so remote, that you need special permission from the Indian government to traverse the untouched landscapes. It is the classic route from Gangotri to Kinnaur and can be travelled through both sides. You can spot much of the Himalayan wildlife, like the mountain crow, ibex, eagles, and snow fox. Enjoy passing through the lush alpines of Kyarkoti Bugyals, fishing trouts at the Sangla Valley, the land across the Indo-China border, and much more on this trail. Very few trekkers take on this trail as it is considered to be one of the most dangerous treks in the country. 

 

5. Kang La Trek, Himachal Pradesh

Duration- 11-13 days

Altitude- 18000 ft

Pristine meadows, glacial lakes, snowfields, glaciers- this trek has it all. It is a 90 km long trek and is ideal for those who want to push their limits. It has the longest glacier crossing. It used to act as a travel route for locals before us adventurers took over from them. This trek begins at Lahaul and ends at Zaskar and the best months to visit are in between June to September. 

 

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