15 Most Dangerous And Challenging Treks In India That Are Not Meant For Faint Hearted

Himalayas. What is the picture that comes to your mind when you hear the word, Himalayas? Snow clad high peaks, clear skies, rugged terrains and maybe an aerial shot? For most people, I am sure. But for mountain-lovers and adventure seekers, it is much more than just that. It is about being that close to the mountains that you feel like a part of them, it’s about the highly challenging roads that take you to your desired destination, and the feeling when you reach your destination which is worth all the pains and struggles to get up there. For trekkers, trekking is the perfect way to explore the earth, feel the oneness with nature, get high on the ultimate adrenaline rush while getting a sense of achievement. For me, a mum of two growing girls, going for a trek in the Himalayas is a distant dream. But if it is in your bucket list, then here is all the information you need to know about the various treks that you can undertake to explore the grand thing they call ‘nature!’

So read on to explore some of the most popular treks in the Himalayan region to find the perfect one for yourself.

1. Kafni Glacier Trek

Although this trek is at a high altitude of 3,853 metres at the Kafni Glacier, it can be easily undertaken by beginners or amateurs, provided you are in perfect health. The trek passes through places like Bharadi, Loharkhet, Dhakuri Pass, Dwali and Khatiya and finally reaches the Kafni Glacier which is the source of river Kafni.

With snow all around and mesmerising view of Nanda Kot Mountain, the trekking journey of this trek is simply breathtaking. The ideal time for this trek is between the months of June till September.

Duration- 7 days
Best season- April to May and September to October
Difficulty level- Moderate to difficult
Altitude- 3,860 meters (12664 feet)
Approx trekking- 85 km

2. Goechala Trek

Taking you up to an elevation of 5002 metres, this trek is not suited for beginners as it involves a lot of steep climbs and descents. The trek begins at Yuksom (Sikkim), located at an altitude of 5,643 feet and about 7 hours drive from New Jalpaiguri. The whole trek takes about 11 days and the months best suited are September to November and March to April.

It traverses through thick forests of Pha Khola, waterfalls before reaching Sachen, sharp climbs amidts rhododendrons of Bhakim, spectacular sights from Tshoka, rocky trail of Phedang, climbs and descents of Dzongri, riverside trail of Kockchurang, leading to the rocky terrain of Thansing, Lamuney and finally View Point 1.

Duration- 11 days
Best season- J – April to June and September and October
Difficulty level- Moderate to difficult
Altitude- 4,602 meters (15,100 feet)
Approx trekking- 90 km

3. Darcha Padum Trek

While many trekkers maintain that this is not that difficult a trek, there are others who beg to differ. The reason being a lot of uphill steep climb involved in the trek, especially the areas covered in snow. The trek begins at Darcha and passes through Palamu, Zanskar Sumdo which is the confluence point of 5 rivers, Chumik Napko, Shingo Las Pass (at 16,700 feet), Lakhang, Kargyak, Purne, Pipula, Ichar and finally reaches Padum at 5090 metres.

The trek usually takes around 9-10 days and is best taken during the months between June and September.

Duration- 10 days
Best season- June to September
Difficulty level- Difficult
Altitude- 5,090 meters (16,700 feet)

4. Chadar Trek

Now, while some trekkers consider Chadar Trek to be one of the easier ones, there are many who feel it is not all that easy going through this trek, and definitely not for novices. The trek involves walking on the frozen Zanskar river, hence the name Chadar as the river is frozenly spread like a white sheet of cloth. The trek begins at Chilling in Leh and traverses through Tsomo Paldar, Tibb Cave and Nerak. This trek is extremely popular due to its terrain which is primarily the frozen Zanskar.

It is equally challenging as one wrong move can make go down into the river! The trek takes place during the months of January and February when the river is frozen and it is unbelievably cold!

Duration- 9 days
Best season- January to February
Difficulty level- Difficult
Altitude- 3,475 meters (11,400 feet)
Approx trekking- 105 km

5. Stok Kangri Trek

One of the most popular treks of Himalayas, Stok Kangri Trek is not for the faint-hearted! By which I mean amateurs and beginners. Stok Kangri peak is the highest mountain in the Stok Range of Himalayas falling under the range of Hemis National Park, Ladakh, at an altitude of 20,1890 feet. Before undertaking the trek, the trekkers are advised to acclimatise as the climb is highly challenging and exhausting both, mentally and physically. The duration of the trek is mostly 10 days but differs as it entirely depends on the fitness levels of the trekkers.

The trek traverses through Chang Ma via Stok Village, Mankorma located at 14,200 feet, base camp at Stok Kangri located at 16,300 feet and finally reaches the summit revealing a jaw-dropping sight of the Mighty Himalayan Peaks and serene valleys.

Duration- 10 days
Best season- June to August
Difficulty level- Difficult
Altitude- 6,150 meters (20,180 feet)
Approx trekking- 40 km

6. Pin Parvati Trek

This one is for the seasoned trekkers as it traverses through a pass that’s located at an altitude of 17,500 feet in Himachal Pradesh and covers around 110 kms in just 10 days. It is one of the most popular treks among experienced trekkers as it is highly challenging and equally rewarding! The trek begins with a land of lush green meadows of Parvati Valley in and ends at a contrasting, an-almost no man’s land of arid dry dessert of the Spiti Valley and as you trek along the valleys and mountains, you can feel the gradual change in topography as well as religion as Hinduism vibes in Himachal Pradesh are replaced by Buddhist vibes in Spiti. Commencing at Manali, trekkers pass through alpine meadows, quaint villages, dense forests, lush greenery, glaciers, gushing streams and hot water springs to finally reach the Pin-Parvati Pass.

The view from here is known to be astounding and breath taking as one can see peaks of Kinnaur, Kullu and Spiti, Parvati South Ridge, Pyramid Peak, Snow Peak, Ridge Peak and if lucky, Kinner Kailash and/or Shrikhand Mahadev. However, the descents in this trek are dangerously steep and crevasse prone.

Duration- 11 days
Best season: July to August
Difficulty level: Difficult
Altitude- 5,334 meters (17,500 feet)
Approx trekking- 110 km

7. Auden’s Col Trek – Uttarakhand

This one is meant for highly experienced trekkers who want to test their limits as this trek is one of the most challenging treks in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. Auden Col is a high mountain pass located at an altitude of 5,490m and it connects Gangotri peak, located at 6,580m to Jogin peak at 6,465m. The trek is not for beginners/amateurs or trekkers who are likely to have issues acclimatising at high altitude areas. It involves passing through a highly challenging trail of moraines, boulders, narrow cliffs and dangerous ridges.

However, once you reach the summit, you are awed by the spectacular sights of various mountain peaks such as Kedar Dome, Jogin group, Bhagirathi group, Gangotri group and Rudragaira. The trek is named after a British Geographical Survey Officer, John Bicknell Auden, after he crossed the pass in 1939, four years after discovering it.

Duration- 15 days
Best season- May to June and post monsoon from September to mid October
Difficulty level- Tough
Altitude- 5,334 meters (18,012 feet)
Approx trekking- 90 km

8. Kalindi Khal Pass Trek

The ‘Baap of all treks’, Kalindi Khal is only meant for experienced and/or trained trekkers as it one of the most challenging trek covering a distance of about 99 kms of an adventure laden trail. The trek begins at Gangotri and traverses through a 6,000m high mountain pass, crevasse snow laden valleys, treacherous glaciers, scenic lakes and gorgeous views of high Himalayan peaks all through, ending at Badrinath. You could start your trek on a religious note by offering prayers to Goddess Ganga at the temple in Gangotri, which is the place from which river Ganga originates (as Goddess Ganga descended on Earth at this point).

You can end your trek at a religious note too, by visiting the temple of Lord Vishnu, located at 3,130 m. The descent is believed to be extremely dangerous and strenuous, especially around the Shivlinga Peak and the neighbouring crevassed regions.

Duration- 20 days
Best season: From mid June to July and August
Difficulty level: Tough
Altitude- 5,946 meters (19,500 feet)
Approx trekking- 99 km

9. Roopkund Lake Trek

Another one for seasoned trekkers, Roopkund Lake Trek is all about exploring the Himalayan beauty. Where thrill meets scenic landscapes and superb views, this trek is not suitable for beginners as the air gets thinner as you climb from an altitude of 3,200 m to 5,000 m and your fitness levels and strength along with trekking experience have to be perfect. The trek commences at Lohajung in the Garhwal mountains and takes about 5 days to reach the lake, traversing various quaint villages, gushing rivers, densest Oak and Rhododendron forests, beautiful alpine meadows and adventurous snowy mountain slopes.

Roopkund Lake Trek is one of the most popular treks in the Himalayas due to its sheer beauty and adventure level!

Duration- 9 days
Best season- May, June, Mid August to October
Difficulty level- Moderate to difficult
Altitude- 4,785 meters (15,696 feet)
Approx trekking- 53 km

10. Markha Valley Trek

One of the most popular treks of the Himalayan region, this trek is where you get the best of both the worlds. However, it is to be undertaken only by seasoned trekkers as its highly challenging, especially while crossing waist-deep river waters and steep climbs. The maximum altitude of the trek reaches 5,050 metres and offers spectacular views of the Ladakh and Zanskar ranges and Stok Kangri peak. The trek takes you through the scenic green landscape of Hemis National Park, Gandala Pass, Kongmaru Pass and some challenging canyons. Adding to the beauty are numerous Buddhist villages that you need to traverse along with the lush green barley fields.

Adding to the challenge are the waist-deep icy-cold streams that you need to cross and steep ascents and descents. This trek is remembered for its exposure to exotic wildlife, colourful culture of Ladakh and spectacular canyons!

Duration- 8 days
Best season- Mid May to Early September
Difficulty level- Difficult
Altitude- 5,200 meters (17,060 feet)
Approx trekking- 110 km

11. Khatling Glacier Trek

This trek is a nature-lover’s road to heaven (no pun intended!) and a photographer’s delight! The trek to reach a maximum elevation of 5,000 m starts from Ghutu village and traverses through dense forests of alpine tress, rich green meadows, beautiful caves, scenic lakes like Masar Tal, Vasuki Tal and Sahastra Tal and two passes above 17,000 feet. The trek is believed to be difficult due to the altitude and the path that involves crossing various glaciers, moraines and snow patches.

Khatling Glacier is the feeding source of river Bhilangana and the trek to this glacier promises some of the most breath taking views of the Himalayan peaks like Jaonli, Thalay Sagar, Kirti Stambh and Bharte Khunta. The best time to undertake this trek is during the summer months from May till October.

Duration- 18 days
Best season- April to May and September to October
Difficulty level- Tough
Altitude- 5,000 meters (16,405 feet)
Approx trekking- 120 km

12. Kinner Kailash Trek

While most of us are familiar with the religious importance of the mighty Kailash Parvat, the trek to this mountain is not of any less either! Mount Kinner Kailash lies in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh and is belived to be an abode of Lord Shiva. It houses a 79 feet rock formation which is in the shape of a ‘Shivling’ and is believed to change its color during a day. The maximum altitude during this goes up to 5,242 metres and it consists of a boulder ridden trail and cold-icy streams to cross. Therefore, this trek is not advised for amateurs.

The trek begins at the Tangling village and traverses through the lush meadows, orchards, gushing streams, dense forests of Deodar trees and reaches the Shivling at Mount Kinner Kailash after passing through steep climbs, moraines, caves and glacial lakes. This trek offers some of the most challenging trails along with scenic beauty that is worth all the time, effort and struggle!

Duration- 13 days
Best season- September and October
Difficulty level- Difficult
Altitude- 5,242 meters (17,198 feet)
Approx trekking- 60 km

Apart from the difficult one’s mentioned above we have listed 3 more treks which has mixed reviews among one who have completed it.

13. Valley of Flowers Trek

With a maximum elevation that goes up to 4,329 metres, this trek is ideal for beginners or amateurs as the route is not that challenging. The trek takes you about 14 kms from Govindghat (located near Rishikesh) towards Ghangaria, which is the last settlement on your way to the Valley of Flowers. The valley starts right after the gorge over river Pushpavati and is a sight to behold! The whole valley seems like its covered in a blanket of colours as the flowers are in full bloom, but only during the months from June to October.

This trek is open to public only during summers. Monsoon months of July and August simply make this valley look straight out of a dream due to its greenery and blooming flora. The trek can also be started from Joshimath, covering around 17 kms by foot.

Duration- 6 days
Best season- July to September
Difficulty level- Moderate
Altitude- 4,389 meters (14,400 feet)
Approx trekking- 37 km

14. Pindari Glacier Trek

Another trek suited for beginners and amateurs, this one reaches an altitude of 3,660 metres in Pindar Valley, in the lap of Kumaon hills. Pindari glacier is located between the peaks, Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot and the trek to here begins from Loharkhet. It traverses through the thick forests and streams of Dhakuri, Khati, Dwali and Phurkia before reaching the Pindar Glacier.

The trek takes you through some of the densest forests, gushing streams, colourful meadows, spectacular waterfall to reach a breath-taking location with a panoramic view of surrounding valley and mountains. The best time to trek along this route is the summer, beginning from March and going on till October.

Duration- 8 days
Best season- May, June, Mid August to October
Difficulty level- Moderate
Altitude- 3,749 meters (12,300 feet)
Approx trekking- 80 km

15. Kuari Pass Trek

Moving on to a relatively more challenging trek, the Kuari Pass trek or Lord Curzon’s Trail (In 1905, Lord Curzon, a great adventurer and the then viceroy of British India took this trail and since then it is named after him) takes you to the Kuari Peak at an altitude of 13,990 feet brimming with spectacular views! This trek begins at Joshimath in Uttarakhand and traverses through various small villages, oak-deaodar-rhododendron forests, Himalayan Bugyals (meadows), Auli, Vinayak Pass and Tali Peak.

The trek offers breathtaking views from start to finish, as the sight of high peaks such as Kamet, Chaukhamba, Trishul and Nanda Devi travel all along with you; and the views upon reaching the Kuari Peak cannot be described in words! However, the best time to undertake this trek is only during the months of December to March.

Duration- 6 days
Best season- Round the year except monsoon
Difficulty level- Moderate
Altitude- 3,890 meters (12,763 feet)
Approx trekking- 33 km

As I started to explore and research more about these treks, my inner ‘nature lover’ was making plans already! These treks, challenging and/or easy, take you to another level of exploration, offering you some of the most amazing rewards in the form of breath-taking views after days of struggle and adventure. But I am sure the thrill is highly addictive! I hope this gave you an idea about various treks that you can undertake in the Himalayan region, although there are many more. However, you can pick the one that suits you out of these popular treks and take one item off your bucket list.

Happy Trekking!