Monsoon treks in the Himalayas

Monsoons in India are quite an anticipated phenomena, and play a very important role behind the rich biodiversity in the subcontinent. One such region with a great variation of flora and fauna is the Himalayas. In some parts of the Himalayas (the eastern part mostly), the monsoons remain for the longest time. While some might think that the mountains are inaccessible during the monsoons, some of the treks in the Himalayas can still be visited and cherished, especially during this season. This article gives an overview of some of the monsoon treks in the Himalayas.

Valley of Flowers trek, Uttarakhand

Duration: 6 days.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.

Located inside the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, the Valley of Flowers National Park is no less than a paradise for botanists and nature lovers, owing to its rich flora and fauna. It is known for its rare collection of endemic alpine flowers and all different kinds of wildflowers like orchids, poppies, calendulas, primulas, daisies and so on. One of the oldest and most famous treks in the Himalayas, the Valley of Flowers trek leads one through numerous mountain valleys, streams and glaciers, making it a remarkable experience for trekkers. Despite some of the steep terrains and slippery roads, the best time to visit this trek is during the monsoons, as one can catch a glimpse of the blossoming flowers.

Markha Valley trek, Ladakh

Duration: 6- 9 days.

Difficulty: Moderate to difficult.

The Markha Valley trek is one of the most famous treks in Ladakh, known for its panoramic views of the mountains and Tibetan monasteries. Owing to its high altitude climb in the harsh weather conditions, the trek requires expertise and relevant skills. It’s often hard for trekkers to acclimatise to the weather. A perfect monsoon trek, the Markha Valley trek also provides a magnificent view of Mount Kang Yatse at the end of the valley. It is also known for its spectacular views of the lush green valleys among the barren mountains.

Kashmir Great lakes trek, Jammu and Kashmir

Duration: 7-8 days.

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult.

One of the most famous treks in the country, the Kashmir Great Lakes trek offers mesmerising views of more than seven lakes, which include the Dal lake, Vishansar lake, Gangabal and Nundkol lake, Yamsar lake, Godsar lake etc. the trail will take one through the alpine meadows, valleys filled with wildflowers, rocky terrains and streams, making it one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. One can ideally visit the trek during the monsoon months of July to September.

Parang la trek, Ladakh

Duration: 8-11 days.

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult.

Set at an altitude of about 5,600 metres, Parang La in Ladakh is a high altitude mountain trail which connects the Spiti valley in Himachal Pradesh to Changthang in Tibet. One of the most well known treks in Ladakh, the Parang La trek is unique in its own way, owing to the distinctive features of the mountains. The region also has a considerable abundance of flora and fauna. The vast meadows along the trek and the Tso Moriri lake, along with the Tibetan monasteries in the mountains are other attractions of this trek. The trek is quite challenging because of the steep ascents and descents at such high altitudes. The harsh weather conditions yet add to the list of challenges. An ideal monsoon trek, it is the most suitable to visit during the months of June to September.

Pin Parvati Pass trek, Himachal Pradesh

Duration: 11 days.

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult.

Set at a height of about 5,319 metres, the Pin Parvati pass acts as a bridge between the Parvati Valley in Kullu and the Pin Valley in Spiti. Steep terrains at such a high altitude with adverse weather conditions make this trek quite a difficult one, and requires relevant skills and expertise. Nevertheless, the Pin Parvati Pass trek is a popular choice for trekkers and mountaineers.  The trek offers a stunning view of the lush green mountain valleys and forests, with the snow capped mountain peaks in the backdrop. What makes this trek even more special is the adventure and the adrenaline rush that it leads one through. An ideal trek to undertake in the monsoon, it is generally visited during the months of July to September.

These were some of the notable monsoon treks to undertake in the Himalayas. Other treks in this list include the Hampta Pass trek, Bhrigu Lake trek, Beas Kund trek etc. Monsoons are the ideal time to visit these treks because of the breathtaking views of the mountain valleys and forests that these treks offer. In spite of the challenges they impose, these treks are still one of the most visited treks in the Himalayas.