The Himalayan India, located in the far north of India, is brimming with landscapes and cultures, each one more enriching than the last. Surrounded by the two highest mountain ranges in the world (Himalaya and Karakoram), the Ladakh region promises unique ascents and discoveries. In this article, we present the must-see treks in the heart of the Himalayan India, one of the most beautiful regions in the world.

The circuits we present are designed for beginners with 3-4 hours of walking per day, as well as for experienced hikers with days that can go up to 7 hours of walking. Identify their highlights and itinerary, and choose the one that suits you best!

1. The Valley of Flowers trek

Located at 3,500m altitude, deep in the Himalaya, the Valley of Flowers awaits you to enjoy a breath of fresh, floral air. Discovered in 1931 by mountaineer Frank Smythe, this meadow transforms into a magnificent profusion of colours during the months of August and September. You will find more than a thousand varieties of flowers, shrubs and orchids. Amid snow-capped peaks and highly diverse fauna and flora, this trek promises you an exceptional spectacle.

Highlights

• Discover the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Visit Hemkund Sahid, a sacred Sikh site on the edge of Hemkund Lake
• Wander through verdant meadows
• Explore the towns of Rishikesh and Joshimath, pilgrimage centres for Hindus

Level: Easy

Duration: 10 days

Discover our circuit Trek in the Valley of Flowers.

2. Hiking in Dharamsala

A wonderful hike through the Himalayan mountains, with passages through the hill stations of Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj – a village known as the home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan community. A carefully planned itinerary to enjoy the magnificent panoramas of Dhauladhar and the Kangra Valley, as well as a remarkable experience in the heritage village of Pragpur.

Highlights

• Visit McLeod Ganj, the "Little Lhasa", home to the Dalai Lama and the exiled Tibetan community.
• Admire the coniferous forests surrounding Dharamsala
• Reach Triund, the highest point of the trek, at 2,850m
• End your trek at Andretta, a small village renowned for its pottery
• Spend the night in a manor house over 300 years old, in the village of Pragpur

Level: Easy

Duration: 11 days

Discover our circuit Hiking in Dharamsala.

3. Trek to Rupshu Tsomoriri

This fascinating hike takes you across the high plateaus of Changtang. In the heart of this barren landscape at 4,400m altitude, near Tso Moriri Lake, small groups of nomadic Chang tribes live out a particularly difficult existence in extremely cold conditions. Here, the fauna includes bar-headed geese, common shelducks, wild donkeys and also snow leopards.

Highlights

• Discover Leh, India's second largest district, with its local markets and temples
• Visit some of the oldest monasteries, renowned for their murals from the 11^th and 12^th centuries, at Alchi and Likir
• Contemplate Tso Kar Lake, a salt lake known for its size and depth
• Camp on the shores of Tso Moriri Lake, the largest high-altitude lake in the trans-Himalayan region
• End your trek in the village of Karzok, one of the highest inhabited villages in the world

Level: Difficult

Duration: 18 days

Discover our circuit Trek to Rupshu Tsomoriri.

4. Great Himalayan Crossing

This hike is among the longest, most ancient and most remote, in the corners of the Trans-Himalaya. You will cross the lush green foothills of the Kullu Valley as well as the Ladakh Desert. But it is also an opportunity to test your endurance during this journey, which will nonetheless offer you wonderful memories. An unforgettable experience amid a tableau of splendour that is both cultural and natural. Not to mention an ascent to 5,100m altitude, at the Shingo La pass.

Highlights

• Push beyond your limits on this terrain as cold as it is barren
• Admire the unique beauty of the Zanskar Valley
• Visit isolated villages and their monasteries
• Contemplate the exceptional panoramas offered by Shingo La (5,100m)
• Discover the fascinating culture of locals in the villages of Leh and Manali

Level: Difficult

Duration: 28 days

Discover our circuit Great Himalayan Crossing.

Why go trekking?

Trekking, in addition to leaving incredible memories and experiences, is a way to disconnect from daily life, set off on an adventure and surpass your own limits. At the heart of nature, you will discover landscapes and corners of the world accessible only on foot. Certainly, both physical and mental efforts are required, but the emotions and connections felt throughout this adventure could well change your perspective, and your way of living. So grab your trekking poles, shoes and backpack, and join us!

Also read, The most beautiful trekking trails in Ladakh.