Monsoon treks in Himachal Pradesh
The reason why Himachal Pradesh is a popular trekking destination is primarily because of the spectacular views one witnesses. During the months from June onwards, monsoon treks in Himachal Pradesh become even more beautiful. At this time, the light mountain rain soaks into the ground and provides a boost of growth to everything. Apples and apricots weigh down the branches of trees, wildflowers spring up all over, and the forests are washed clean. Whether you’re an amateur or an expert, monsoon treks in Himachal Pradesh have a little something for everybody. The most popular treks to do in the monsoon in Himachal Pradesh are the Hampta Pass trek, the Chandrakhani Pass Trek, the Triund trek, Indrahar Pass trek, and the Bhrigu Lake Trek.
Here are a few popular monsoon treks in Himachal Pradesh:
1. Hampta Pass and Chandratal trek
The Hampta Pass Trek offers some of the most glorious scenic views. From verdant pastures, open meadows with fragrant sweet grass, cattle grazing, and sparkling streams, this is one of the most picturesque treks to do in the monsoon in Himachal Pradesh. You’ll trek from Kullu valley, filled with greenery and nature, through the challenging Hampta Pass, and then over into the Spiti valley, where the landscape is stark and dry. This monsoon trek in Himachal Pradesh ends with a real treat: a visit to the glittering gem that is Chandratal lake.
2. Bhrigu Lake trek
At the heart of Kullu Valley, Bhrigu Lake is one of the top monsoon treks in Himachal Pradesh because it takes you high up into the cool mountains and lets you camp along the banks of a lake. The trek begins from Manali, and winds through quaint mountain villages, forests of oak and pine, with impressive views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and Hampta valley at every turn. You’ll be camping beside Bhrigu Lake, watching the colours changing as the sky changes. This top monsoon trek in Himachal Pradesh also offers a chance to visit the famous hot water springs in the Vashisht village.
3. Pin Parvati trek
The Pin Parvati Pass trek is one of the top monsoon treks in Himachal Pradesh, but is meant only for those with experience. Located at a height of 17,450 feet, the Pin Parvati Pass is the only link between the green Parvati Valley of Kullu and the dry, arid Pin Valley in Spiti. On this trek, you will start from Manali, and trek through the green valleys of Himachal Pradesh, through fruit orchards, blossoming wildflowers, and sparkling rivers and streams. Once you reach Pin Parvati Pass, you'll see the brown and grey rocky landscape of the Spiti valley. For almost 10 days, you’ll be far away from civilization, crossing wide glaciers, climbing steep slopes, and trekking through thick forests. This makes the Pin Parvati Pass one of the top monsoon treks in Himachal Pradesh.
4. Sar Pass trek
A relatively challenging monsoon trek in Himachal Pradesh, the Sar Pass Trek takes you across the Parvati Valley. This 6-day monsoon trek in Himachal Pradesh has a moderately challenging course and it is a great introduction to those who want to start high altitude treks. It takes you to a height of almost 14,000 feet, through beautiful landscapes, and up to the Pass. You'll start your journey from Naggar, close to Manali. As you trek through Parvati Valley, you'll see pine forests, rhododendron trees, and snowy peaks in the distance. You'll cross rivers and spot waterfalls, with stunning landscapes all around, making it one of the top monsoon treks in Himachal Pradesh.