There are hundreds of treks in Himalayas ranging from low to very high difficulty levels. Some of these treks are recommended to pros only. But everyone has to start from somewhere and has to start with easy one. Same goes to the trekkers. For the beginner Trekkers it is advised to start with the couple of easy treks before moving to next level. Here are some easy to moderate treks for new trekkers.
Churdhar Trek
This 14 km long trek in district Sirmaur was the first trek I did. The Churdhar peak at a height of 3647m in Western Himalayas is also a pilgrim site. There is a 5 feet idol of Lord Shiva and temple of Shirgul Maharaj. There are two routes one from Nauhradhar in Sirmaur district which is 20kms long and other from Sarahan Shimla which is 8kms long. Trek from Nauhradhar is the easier one and is prefered for beginners. It would take 7-10 hours for an average walker. There is dharamshala near temple for accommodation.
Also Read our Article: Churdhar Trek from Nauhradhar
Kheerganga Trek
Kheerganga is one of the most visited trek in Parvati Valley. Having places like Manikaran Kasol, Tosh, Pulga etc nearby this is one of the most happening trekking destination especially youths. Kheerganga is also famous for natural hot water spring. You can enjoy a bath in the pool while enjoying the views around. This 12 km long trek starts from Barshaini. There are two routes for Kheerganga also you can take either. The one via Rudranag runs parallel to Parvati river through farms, apple orchards and few villages and enters into a thick Deodar forest beyond Rudranag after crossing the Parvati river. The other one is a all the way Jungle trail. There are camps and one Dharamshala for accommodation at the top. You can also pitch your own tent.
Also Read our Article: Kheerganga- A trekker’s heaven in Parvati valley
Triund Trek
Triund is the best day hike as well as camping destination near Dharmshala. It is located in Dhauladhar ranges of Himalayas. This is a 5-6 kms long trek. You can start either from Mcleodganj or Bhagsunag. You can also drive up to Glu and trek onwards. There is a beautiful meadow and the views of naked dhauladhar peaks. Further you can extend the trek up to Indrahar Pass, which is the gateway to Chamba district. This place is perfect for camping. picnics and star gazing in the nights. During your ascent you can see view of Dharamshala town and HPCA stadium.
Jalori Pass-Serolsar Lake Trek
Serolsar Lake is located near Jalori Pass in the Banjar Valley. It is a wonderful 5 km trail through a oak forest. It is one of the easiest trek in the valley with moderate ascent and descent. The trek starts from Jalori Pass, which is on Kullu-Rampur highway, 12 kms from Jibhi. There is a beautiful lake surrounded by tall trees and hills on each side and the temple of Mata Budhi Nagin. It is a perfect day hike for beginners.
Prashar Lake Trek
Prashar lake is beautiful lake on the top of bowl shape mountain peak in Mandi district. A small island keeps floating over the lake. There is a beautiful temple of Prashar Rishi built in ancient architecture on the side of the lake. Although Prashar Lake is very well connected by road, but still there is a lot for adventure lovers at this place. A small hike and camping in the lush green meadows of Prashar is all we need for a perfect weekend trip. You can start trekking from Baggi. It is a 7 km hike from Baggi village to Prashar and it takes 3-4 hours to complete the trek. For accommodation there
Shikari Devi Trek
Shikari Devi temple is located at a height of 3359 mtr on shikari peak near Janjehli Valley in Mandi district. The temple has no roof. You can see the panoramic views of lush green valleys and snowy Himalayan peaks from Shikari peak. Shikari Mata temple can be reached from Janjehli, Jaach or Karsog. But the trek from Janjehli is most popular one. Although there is road a km short of Shikari Temple but trekking is the better choice if you want to explore the beauty of Janjehli Valley and Shikari peak. Reach Rajgardh in Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary by road and trek to Shikari onwards. It would take 3-4 hours to reach Shikari from there. Alternatively you can also opt for Janjehli-Shikari Temple-Kamrunag-Janjehli round trip. For accommodations there are a PWD Rest House and a number of Dharamshalas, while camping option is always on.
Beas Kund Trek
Beas Kund is the origin of Beas river at an altitude of 2810 metre. It is one of the best short trek near Manali. The trek passes through beautiful Solang Valley alongside the beas river. The trek starts from Dhundi village which is 21km by road from Manali. Beas kund trek is 2 0r 3 days long trek. Reach Dhundi then start a 4.5 km moderate climb to Bhakartach. Beas Kund is another 3 km trek from Bhakartach. You can choose to camp either at Bhakartach or Beas Kund Camp site. Beas Kund trek offers magnificent views of snow covered peaks.
Hatu Peak Trek
Hatu peak trek is a one day trek from Narkanda in district Shimla. It is a perfect option for weekend trip. Hatu peak is 7km from Narkanda and can be covered easily in a day. Trek starts from Thanedar and passes through Gujjar Kotha. There is the temple of Hatu Mata at the top of the peak. There is a 360 degree view of snow-capped himalayan peaks and the valleys of Rohru and Theog.
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