I’ve been lacing up my boots and wandering the Himalayas for many years, and I still can’t get enough. There’s this wild pull to those mountains—the way the air bites your lungs, the trails twist into the unknown, and every step reveals a view that stops you cold. I’ve trekked more paths than I can count, but some valleys? They’ve carved a permanent spot in my soul. Here are five that I swear every trekker needs to experience—whether you’re a beginner or a grizzled mountain goat like me. 1. Valley of Flowers – A Floral Fever Dream Altitude: 3,658 meters Trek Distance: 34 km (round trip) Best Time to Visit: July to September Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate Picture this, you’re walking along a trail in Uttarakhand, and suddenly the world explodes into color. That’s the Valley of Flowers for you. I’ll never forget my first glimpse—wildflowers in every shade imaginable, rolling out like nature’s own red carpet. Starting from Govindghat , the path winds past gushing streams and rick...
There’s an indescribable thrill in chasing a high-altitude lake. The trail is difficult to go through. You might find yourself out of breath, with leg ache, and the tough terrain tests your limits. But when you finally get a glimpse of the stillness of the freshwater lake and scenic views of the surrounding mountains, all your tiredness fades into pure wonder. Having roamed the peaks for years, I’ve come to share these treks as some of the most soul-stirring adventures out there. Below are my five all-time favorite lake treks, plus a bonus gem you can’t overlook! 1. Bhrigu Lake (14,000 feet) Manali, Himachal Pradesh Bhrigu lake is a short and offbeat escape into the Himalayas. This 3-day high-altitude lake trek is an ideal destination for beginners who want to explore the beauty of the ever-shifting scenery, then vibrant blue one moment, lush green the next. Its half-frozen surface, even in milder months, casts a spell of mystery. For a short but unforgettable mountain fix,...