India has world-class trekking opportunities, particularly in the Himalaya, where staggering snow-clad peaks, traditional tribal villages, sacred Hindu sites, ancient Buddhist monasteries and blazing fields of wildflowers are just some of the features that create extraordinary mountain experiences. Hit the trails for easy half-day jaunts or strenuous multiweek expeditions.
Jammu & Kashmir The moonscape ranges rising in Ladakh offer some incredible trails, including routes through the popular Markha Valley and wildly beautiful Zanskar region.
Himachal Pradesh Alpine adventures are easily accessible, including on treks from McLeod Ganj to Bharmour, between the Parvati and Pin Valleys, and on the Buddhist-infused Homestay Trail in the Spiti region.
Uttarakhand Enjoy the pristine splendour of the Kauri Pass, Milam Glacier and Har-ki-Dun treks or join pilgrims en route to sacred religious sites such as Kedarnath Temple or Hem Kund.
Sikkim Gaze at Khangchendzonga (8598m), the world’s third-highest mountain, on the Goecha La trek.
Karnataka Explore the serene hills and forests of Kodagu.
Kerala Go in search of tigers, elephants and deer at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Tamil Nadu Head to Kodaikanal, which has some lovely forest hikes along misty trails, prettier and more laid-back hiking hill-station base than Ooty.
The commercial trekking industry is much less developed in India than in neighbouring Nepal. Thus many places still feel wild and relatively unspoilt. Still, on most routes, you can hire porters or pack animals to haul your gear. If you go with a trekking company, some gear may be supplied. Specify everything that’s included beforehand, and get it in writing if possible.
Wherever you go, make sure you have any permits you may need.
Monitor your health – Acute Mountain Sickness is a serious risk on trails over 3000m.
And beware of herding dogs; they're famously aggressive.
Detailed maps of the Indian Himalaya are difficult to buy in-country. Some maps found online are good enough for planning, and even navigating if you're experienced at reading them. For Ladakh, pricey 1:300,000 scale maps can be bought in Leh; some maps from the 1:200,000 Leomann series are often available in Manali and McLeod Ganj.
On popular pilgrims’ trails, it’s impossible to get lost, but less-travelled tracks can fork or vanish altogether, so hiring a local guide can be wise.
For information on climbing Himalayan summits over 6000m, check the website of the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (www.indmount.org).
Throughout the Himalaya, plan in some extra days to acclimatise while en route to high-altitude destinations. These mountains deserve your respect – don’t try to trek beyond your physical or technical abilities.
Mountaineers need permission from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (%011-24111211; www.indmount.org; 6 Benito Juarez Rd, New Delhi) in Delhi to climb most peaks over 6000m. Expedition fees vary, rising with the height of the peak and number of people on your team. Fortunately, permits for quite a few high 'trekking' summits cost only US$30 to US$100, particularly in Ladakh, Lahaul, Spiti and Sikkim; among them is Stok Kangri (6120m), an affordable but rewarding taste of high-altitude mountaineering.
ABring gear and clothing that are appropriate for the conditions you expect to encounter.
AOn well-established trails, heavy hiking boots are overkill, but on remote mountain tracks they can be lifesavers.
AFirst-aid and water-purification supplies are often essential.
ARain gear is a must, and warm layers are crucial for comfort at altitude.
ARemember sunscreen!
AFollow low-impact trekking practices (you know the mantra – take only photographs, leave only footprints).
ACook over stoves, since local people rely on limited fuel-wood sources.
ARespect local cultural sensibilities by dressing modestly; ask permission before snapping photos; remember that while locals' hospitality may be endless, their food supply might not be; and refrain from giving gifts to children.
The isolated, northeast mountain state of Arunachal Pradesh is an adventurous destination for experienced trekkers. One of the top spots to check out is Namdapha National Park, which is bogglingly rich in biodiversity.
With India’s diverse topography, the best trekking times depend on the region.
May–June This is a good time for mountain trekking, but also high season for domestic Indian travellers. Trails to holy Hindu sites can be packed.
Mid-July–mid-September During monsoon, trekking in the wrong place can be deadly. Ladakh and Spiti stay pretty dry. Uttarakhand’s famous Valley of Flowers National Park unfurls a dazzling botanical carpet.
Mid-September–mid-November Post-monsoon, searing blue skies usually bless the Himalaya. While nights may dip below freezing, days are usually sunny and warm. Facilities often close for winter, so check in advance to see what will be open.
December–March February is the only month where you can attempt the hazardous Chadar Trek, walking along a frozen river to the Zanskar region.
April Head for the hill stations, as it's ripping hot down low and usually still snow-packed up high.