Flanked by the prodigious Himalayas, Uttarakhand is blessed with exceptional scenic beauty that can rival any picturesque mountainous region in the world. It boasts several pilgrimage sites that lend a divine flavour to its heavenly grandeur. The moniker “abode of the Gods” is rightfully attributed to this breathtakingly beatific place. It is of no surprise that Uttarakhand is brimming with numerous and several trekking destinations that attract a host of adventurers throughout the year. Not only do these paths offer striking visual imagery, but they make way for an arduous journey as they are difficult to traverse as well. But trekking is not meant for timorous hearts, is it?
Let us have a look at the top five toughest trekking destinations in Uttarakhand.
1. Kedarkantha Trek
Kedarkantha Trek is probably the easier among the ones listed in this post. It is also one of the most popular treks in the country. The trek offers spectacular views of several mountain peaks. First-time trekkers can also opt for this odyssey, although one will have to cover approximately 20 kilometres in 5-6 days. A stunning vista of rich and diverse flora and fauna of Kedarkantha will greet the travellers but beware of the frigid temperature, especially during the steep climb on the second and third day, which invites blustery winds. The snow-capped Kedarkantha peak on moonlit nights is a sight to behold!
Best season: December-April
2. Roopkund Lake Trek
Roopkund is shrouded in mystery that gives an eerie chill to adventurers as they traverse a taxing terrain to reach the approximately 16000 ft. altitude. The mystery is owing to the discovery of over 500 skeletons near the glacial lake in 1942. An unsolved thriller, which raises more questions than answers, has several theories that magnify its enigma further. However, the meandering trail is of unbelievable beauty as it takes you through shadowy oak and pine forests and streams as clear as crystal.
Best season: May-June and September-October
3. Auden’s Col Trek
As one of the most demanding high-altitude terrains, Auden’s Col trek will greet you with several and numerous glaciers, deep crevasses, tapering ridges, moraines, treacherous snow slopes, etc. The descent from Khatling glacier to the base is the highlight of this gruelling journey. Probably not recommended for first-time trekkers as this expedition demands patience and extreme physical fitness.
Best season: April-October
4. Kalindi Khal Trek
Regarded as the most onerous trek route in the Himalayas, Kalindi Khal is strictly recommended for seasoned trekkers. The rewards are lucrative as the trail offers spectacular views, but one must conquer scree-covered slopes, cavernous crevasses, and rock-strewn glaciers to reach the great pilgrimage site of Badrinath, where the trek ends. You would require some rudimentary mountaineering skills as well to manoeuvre through this testing landscape.
Best season: June – August
5. Rupin Pass Trek
Rupin Pass requires you to get the better of a variety of terrains in order to relish the cascading waterfalls, lush green undulating meadows, and opaque umbrous rhododendron and pine forests. The trek stretches over 60 kilometres, and it requires around eight days traversing the landscape.
Best season: May-June and September-October
