Indiahikes

Indiahikes India's Largest Trekking Community. We explore, document and organise treks around the world. Good, cutting edge ideas are not easy and we are looking for them.
(217)

Today Indiahikes’ website is the largest curated trek information about trekking in India. As more information is being added, we are dealing with technology challenges to make the content editable, informative, easy to read and shareable. If you have any ideas that can make trek documentation more engaging we would love to hear from you. If we find your idea worth following up then we would love

to take you on a trek with us. New Trails, New Explorations

Indiahikes has been instrumental in bringing out great treks in India — be it the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, The Rupin Pass, The Roopkund or any of them listed on our website. All great treks in India have either been discovered, the route modified, or simply brought to people’s attention by Indiahikes. The implication of this is significant. Explorations lead to discoveries of great treks. Indiahikes actively promotes a culture of exploration in trekkers. Indiahikes totally sponsors trek explorations. We don’t charge any money but expect that you be an equal member of the trek documentation process. Explorations are not restricted to the Himalayas, but open to any state in India. They can be in the hills, forests, around a lake, on a beach, anywhere. Email us to sign up for trek explorations. Schools/colleges who would like to encourage trekking explorations can sign up for our Hiking Club program. Email us for more details. Innovation in Trekking

Indiahikes has been instrumental in bringing in new changes to trekking in India. Today, the way treks are conducted in India is not how things were even 5 years ago. Some of these innovations look seemingly small but the impact on trekking is enormous. Microspikes worn over trekking shoes help get a firm grip on snow. The introduction of microspikes has dropped trekking accidents in the mountains by over 80%. Mandatory measurement of oxygen levels in blood on high altitude treks has made early diagnosis of altitude sickness a lot easier. Changing of food menu on Sikkim trails have increased marketable value of local staff, whose incomes have increased as they become universally employable. Solving Problems of the Mountains
At Indiahikes solving problems of the mountains is one of our core values. Solving problems have invariably led to innovations and our growth. At Indiahikes, we believe there are many more problems that we haven’t been able to put our finger on. If you have noticed a challenge that needs to be overcome send us an email. If you would like to be part of the problem solving team let us know as well. Great Treks
Finally, at Indiahikes, we also run great treks. We are India’s largest trek organisation for many reasons. Our attention to detail — our tents are not camping tents, they are expedition tents. Our sleeping bags have 5 layers and go down to -10°C. They are so popular that trekkers want to buy them! There are other reasons too: Trekkers love our trek leaders, each one of them a star. They are qualified (with advanced mountaineering courses), trained, urban and simply love the mountains. Most of them were working in high end industries before getting into, what they say, is the best job in the world. Our local staff are permanently employed by us and not outsourced. Trekkers also love the company they get on our treks. Somehow, being the largest also attract the better trekkers. Women feel particularly safe. Single women trekkers are the largest with Indiahikes. It is not surprising most of our groups run full. Registrations usually need to be done 2-3 months in advance. If you would like to share your thoughts or collaborate with Indiahikes on any of the thoughts that we have raised here, email us at [email protected]. We would love to hear from you.

September brings a festival of colours. The landscape turns into hues of green and yellow. With the rain clouds gone awa...
08/17/2024

September brings a festival of colours. The landscape turns into hues of green and yellow. With the rain clouds gone away, the sky turns squeaky clean, giving you stunning Mountain View’s, and even more stunning night skies.

➡️ For detailed information on each trek, head to the link in our bio.

The Phulara Ridge trek is graded as a moderate trek. But honestly, this trek is not that difficult. It is a that a fit b...
08/17/2024

The Phulara Ridge trek is graded as a moderate trek. But honestly, this trek is not that difficult. It is a that a fit beginner can do. But it is just a few sections that make this trek a bit challenging.

What are those challenging sections?
Watch the video till the end for a detailed explanation.

So, on what basis do we grade these difficulty levels?

At Indiahikes, while rating the difficulty of a trek we consider several factors. These include, altitude gained every day, length of a trek every day, highest altitude, nature of the terrain, weather, etc. Based on this we rate a trek as easy or difficult or somewhere in between.

This means the Phulara Ridge trek is ideal for a fit beginner. The trek is 4 days long and each day, you’ll be trekking for an average of 5 hours each on the first two days and longer over the next two days.

The geographical location of the ridge ensures lower temperatures compared to the surrounding region. Therefore, Phulara Ridge is one of the very few treks that have snow even in the spring season at an altitude as low as 12,500 ft. You’ll be provided with microspikes to help navigate these sections safely.

Therefore, you must train for at least a month before going on the Phulara Ridge trek.

The Phulara Ridge trek is graded as a moderate trek. But honestly, this trek is not that difficult. It is a that a fit beginner can do. But it is just a few ...

At Indiahikes, we’ve always seen running as more than just a way to keep fit—it’s a crucial part of preparing for the tr...
08/17/2024

At Indiahikes, we’ve always seen running as more than just a way to keep fit—it’s a crucial part of preparing for the treks we love so much. That’s why we’re excited to share the news about the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department’s very first marathon.

We’ve noticed that many of our trekkers develop a passion for running after their treks. It’s a natural progression: running helps build the endurance needed for trekking, and trekking often ignites a love for running. The Kashmir marathon is a perfect embodiment of this connection.

The marathon route offers a chance to experience the region’s stunning scenery and cultural landmarks. You’ll run past Dal Lake, the Zabarwan mountain range, Shankaracharya Temple, Pari Mahal, and the Dargah Shrine. The course also includes the Mughal Gardens, showcasing the vibrant Chinar trees and elaborate garden designs.

To join, you can scan the QR code shown in the post or visit their official website to register.

In continuation of the Celebrating India series, we are back today with another feature that we dearly love: mountain va...
08/13/2024

In continuation of the Celebrating India series, we are back today with another feature that we dearly love: mountain valleys.

In case you missed yesterday’s post, this Independence Day week, we are celebrating the best landscapes of India.

Yesterday, we already covered some of the best meadows in India.

Today, we are talking about the best valleys in India.

"Valleys always have two main features. First, there are the forests. Whether it's the Har Ki Dun Valley or the Rupin Valley, you'll remember the beautiful forests that line the valley. These types of forests thrive in valleys and make them luxuriant. The second feature is the presence of rivers. Almost every valley is home to a river, and as you walk along them, you can't help but form a deep connection with these rivers," said Arjun Majumdar, CEO and Founder of Indiahikes.

Given the expansive mountain ranges in our country, we are fortunate to have some of the most beautiful mountain valleys: from the gentle valleys of J&K to the lush valleys of Himachal and the rugged valleys of Uttarakhand.

So we’re jotting down the best valleys we have seen through the lens of Indiahikes treks. Each one of them is in tight competition with the other.

We've noticed that while most novice trekkers are drawn to summits, experienced hikers have a fondness for valleys. It takes patience and wisdom to appreciate a valley.

➡️ We would love to hear from you about some valleys that you have trekked in and loved. Drop in a comment below.

It's Independence Day week.We thought we could use this week to celebrate the gorgeous landscapes of India.As trekkers a...
08/12/2024

It's Independence Day week.

We thought we could use this week to celebrate the gorgeous landscapes of India.
As trekkers and not travellers, we have the rare privilege to see and experience the rawest, most gorgeous version of India.

From the high-altitude Himalayan belt to the forests of Central India, and the rich ghats and beaches of our country, the changes in scenery are unimaginable.

But still, we rarely get an opportunity to experience all of it.

That is why, over the next few days, we want to share with you some of the most incredible landscapes of India. We will do it by taking you through some of the best treks of our country, which celebrate these beautiful sceneries.

We have divided it into four categories
> Meadows of India
> Forests of India
> Valleys of India
> High mountains of India

This post is intentionally focusing on treks organised by Indiahikes so that you have the avenue to explore these trails. So let’s celebrate India through the lens of Indiahikes treks.

So, swipe through the slides to see and learn little little about the best meadows we have in India.
While we have limited space and time to talk about meadows in this post, we would love to hear your thoughts on your favourite meadows.

➡️ Drop in a comment below with your favourite meadow and why. It will help other trekkers plan their future treks to a place that you have loved.

🗓️ Meanwhile, we will be back with more, in this Independence Day series, talking about the best forests, mountains, and valleys of our country everyday for the next 3 days.

📸 Photo credits
BG Avinash
Sandhya UC
Pritish Bhanushali
Mayank Singh
Nitesh Kumar
Vishal Pawar
Harsh Gada
Arjun Majumdar

As you trek on the trails of Har Ki Dun, you are constantly weaving in and out through ancient villages. These villages ...
08/12/2024

As you trek on the trails of Har Ki Dun, you are constantly weaving in and out through ancient villages.

These villages never fail to charm trekkers. The houses, all wooden, have unique designs. The temples' culture, deities, and rituals are from a civilisation we do not know. The temples are the heart of the villages, the focal point around which daily life revolves. Villagers wear traditional attire and headgear. It’s as if time has stood still.

Peering into their homes, we see a lifestyle worth learning from. A sense of harmony exudes from their lives, where humans, animals, and the natural world coexist in beautiful harmony.

The fact that we witness this firsthand on this trek is a big reason to do the trek. But because this is among the biggest takeaways for trekkers.

As you trek on the trails of Har Ki Dun, you are constantly weaving in and out through ancient villages. These villages never fail to charm trekkers. The hou...

🥳 We have great news! 🥳We have officially launched groups for our new Pench Mowgli Trek in collaboration with Madhya Pra...
08/10/2024

🥳 We have great news! 🥳

We have officially launched groups for our new Pench Mowgli Trek in collaboration with Madhya Pradesh Tourism. As you know, we announced our Pilot Group a couple of weeks ago. In just 24 hours, the group got fully booked!

We even had a five-member crew from Indiahikes re-explore the trek. They came back with just one thought: Everyone MUST experience the Pench Mowgli trek

Based on these tremendous responses, we have opened the trek for you all in the months of August and September!

Pench has one of the country's most famous tiger reserves. Our new trek runs through the buffer zone of this reserve, teeming with flora and fauna—and yes, tigers, too!

It's not every day that you get to enter such protected tiger reserves in our country. They are usually off-limits to tourists and even trekkers. But here, in Madhya Pradesh, the forest officials and the tourism department have personally invited Indiahikes to organise a trek. This is a result of our long-standing relationship with them, making this trek a truly exclusive and privileged experience.

Here are the new dates that have opened:
29th August - 1st September
5th September - 8th September
13th September - 16th September

This is one for the bucket list. We have all added it to ours. Don't miss this opportunity to be among the first to experience the Pench Mowgli Trek. If you are wondering if this trek is for first timers and beginners, yes it is!!

➡️ Comment “Mowgli” to know more about the trek.

📸 Photo credits
Nitesh Kumar ()
Akshay Kevin (._.puzzle)

Buying a backpack that suits you is almost as important as buying a shoe that suits you. Your backpack is your companion...
08/09/2024

Buying a backpack that suits you is almost as important as buying a shoe that suits you. Your backpack is your companion throughout your trek. It’s either going to make your trek a pleasurable one or is going to be a burden on you. To make sure you buy the right kind of backpack, here are six essential tips you must follow while buying a backpack.

However, If you’re not a regular trekker (someone who does at least 3-4 treks in a year), we would recommend you to rent. Not only is renting economical for you, it is more sustainable and reliable.

➡️ If you have any more tips to choose the perfect backpack, then mention them in the comment section.

➡️ Also share this post with someone who is planning to buy a backpack soon.

Latest Trek Updates from Himachal Pradesh
08/08/2024

Latest Trek Updates from Himachal Pradesh

August 6th, 2024: Following up from our previous weather update a few days back, the amount of rainfall has been reducing in Himachal Pradesh. There have bee...

08/07/2024

https://youtu.be/zKAGS_2cPKE

Trekking After Dengue: Is It Safe?

Dengue fever is on the rise all over India. And we see many of our trekkers are concerned that they have a trek coming up and they are still recovering. Will they be able to do the trek post recovery is something that is there on everyone's mind right now.

Dr Sree will answer all your questions in this video.
Watch the video till the end to get answers to questions like - Is it ok to trek after recovering from Dengue? How long should you wait? What are the precautions you should take? etc.

If you have any more queries, you can email Dr Sree at [email protected]

“We were standing at the summit when an eagle soared high above us. I could see one of my trekkers get emotional. Later,...
08/06/2024

“We were standing at the summit when an eagle soared high above us. I could see one of my trekkers get emotional. Later, during the debriefing, he told me that his father had passed away a few days ago. And when he saw that bird, in a strange way, he felt like that was his father, bidding goodbye, giving him the closure he needed. He felt a profound connection engulf him. I was glad that, in some way, I played a role in his journey here,” shares Vishal Verma.

Born in Himachal Pradesh, Vishal wanted to work in the government sector. After spending some time in Delhi, he quickly realised that city life wasn’t for him. He yearned to return to the mountains and spend time where he was born.

When he was looking for outdoor organisations, he chanced upon Indiahikes. He was thrilled when he landed a job as a trek leader. “When Vishal had joined, he was underconfident. He had the uphill task of getting used to the mighty responsibilities of being a trek leader,” says Ramon, Vishal’s Experience Manager.

“Today, when I look at Vishal, I see a very responsible, dependable and confident Trek Leader. He has grown so much, to the point where he is leading tough treks like KGL and Warwan Valley with ease,” adds Ramon.

“I will never join any other organisation,” Vishal asserts. “Indiahikes is different. There is so much warmth and learning here. My job has made my life meaningful! How many of us can say that? People are amazed by what I do. I feel incredibly proud to be a part of IH!”

Inspired by the philosophy of MS Dhoni, Vishal believes that being a true leader is not about staying at the forefront; it is about bringing out the best in the people he leads. He, too, follows that philosophy on the slopes.

“When you are trekking, it brings out all your vulnerabilities. You start becoming a different person. Then, in that state, when you just sit amidst nature, looking at the peaks and doing nothing, you’ll find something kindling in you. I have seen people cry at debriefings for this very reason, and that’s priceless. What other work could give me so much happiness and the opportunity to inspire change?”

➡️ Tell us your favorite memory with Vishal Verma!

This is your sign to go for the Chandrakhani Pass trek :)➡️ If you want to know more about the trek, send us a DM!📸 Phot...
08/02/2024

This is your sign to go for the Chandrakhani Pass trek :)

➡️ If you want to know more about the trek, send us a DM!

📸 Photos by Pritish Bhanushali ( )

It has been raining heavily in Himachal Pradesh for 3-4 days. There have been separate incidents of cloudbursts in diffe...
08/01/2024

It has been raining heavily in Himachal Pradesh for 3-4 days. There have been separate incidents of cloudbursts in different regions of Himachal. As of this afternoon, August 1st, the rain has started to clear a bit, but could be back over the next few days.

Keeping this in mind, we’re sharing this post to give you an update on all our currently running and scheduled Himachal treks.

To know more about Himachal’s weather update, click the link on our story.

Buying trek pants can get confusing as they are not everyday wear. You can’t just buy them off the shelf. Why? Because n...
07/31/2024

Buying trek pants can get confusing as they are not everyday wear. You can’t just buy them off the shelf. Why? Because not knowing what qualities to look for in trek pants can keep you confused for hours.

So, here’s a guide on how to choose the perfect trek pants without losing your mind.

➡️ If you have used any other trek pants that you would recommend, then mention them in the comment section.

➡️ Also share this post with someone who is planning for a trek soon.

Trekking in Uttarakhand is synonymous with trekking in Garhwal. Yet, unknown to most, the neighbouring Kumaon is largely...
07/31/2024

Trekking in Uttarakhand is synonymous with trekking in Garhwal. Yet, unknown to most, the neighbouring Kumaon is largely unexplored and has received little attention. Kumaon’s Ranthan Kharak Trek is just one of many undiscovered trekking gems.

While there are many reasons why we love the Ranthan Kharak trek, here is Suhas Saya, who was part of the exploration team for this trek giving us 4 major reasons why this trek, in Kumaon, is special.

Kharak means “clearings” in the local language. On this trek, there are some stunning clearings to trek through. In two such clearings, we set up camp! You don’t get to camp in such settings every day. Frankly, we find the clearings on the Ranthan Kharak trek more beautiful than those on the Kedarkantha.

You see India’s highest peak, like Nanda Devi, and its sister peak, Sunanda Devi (also known as Nanda Devi East), while on this trek. But there is more to Ranthan Kharak.

The forests are exceptionally dense and deep. Flora and fauna enchant every moment. The trees and birds in the virgin forests are just as diverse as the ones we see on our Goechala Trek.

Despite the short Autumn season, it is one of the best times to do this trek.

The views are much sharper and crisper compared to the Summer season. This is something to witness from Ranthan Kharak. The magnificent views on both sides of the ridge walk are a delight!

The trail changes colour as you trudge deeper into the trek. Initially, you’ll notice many shades of green near the base camp. This continues as you trek through forests and grasslands. But as you gain altitude and enter the meadow section, you’ll notice more yellows, oranges, and browns.

➡️ Comment “Ranthan” to know more about this trek.

📷 Photos from Indiahikes Archives

Trekking in Uttarakhand is synonymous with trekking in Garhwal. Yet, unknown to most, the neighbouring Kumaon is largely...
07/30/2024

Trekking in Uttarakhand is synonymous with trekking in Garhwal. Yet, unknown to most, the neighbouring Kumaon is largely unexplored and has received little attention. Kumaon’s Ranthan Kharak Trek is just one of many undiscovered trekking gems.

While there are many reasons why we love the Ranthan Kharak trek, here is Suhas Saya, who was part of the exploration team for this trek giving us 4 major reasons why this trek, in Kumaon, is special.

Kharak means “clearings” in the local language. On this trek, there are some stunning clearings to trek through. In two such clearings, we set up camp! You don’t get to camp in such settings every day. Frankly, we find the clearings on the Ranthan Kharak trek more beautiful than those on the Kedarkantha.

You see India’s highest peak, like Nanda Devi, and its sister peak, Sunanda Devi (also known as Nanda Devi East), while on this trek. But there is more to Ranthan Kharak.

The forests are exceptionally dense and deep. Flora and fauna enchant every moment. The trees and birds in the virgin forests are just as diverse as the ones we see on our Goechala Trek.

Despite the short Autumn season, it is one of the best times to do this trek.

The views are much sharper and crisper compared to the Summer season. This is something to witness from Ranthan Kharak. The magnificent views on both sides of the ridge walk are a delight!

The trail changes colour as you trudge deeper into the trek. Initially, you’ll notice many shades of green near the base camp. This continues as you trek through forests and grasslands. But as you gain altitude and enter the meadow section, you’ll notice more yellows, oranges, and browns.

➡️ Comment “Ranthan” to know more about this trek.

📷 Photos from Indiahikes Archives.

[Indiahikes, Indiahikes Community, Ranthan Kharak, Ranthan Kharak Trek, Uttarakhand, Autumn, Autumn Trek, Treks in Uttarakhand]

“Before joining Indiahikes, I worked at a bank. I would be so exhausted that despite having the mountains so close, I ne...
07/30/2024

“Before joining Indiahikes, I worked at a bank. I would be so exhausted that despite having the mountains so close, I never travelled. However, one day, I picked up my tent and pitched it right outside my house. I took my blanket, a pot of chai, and some books. I ended up staying there three nights in a row. That’s when I came across a post from Indiahikes. Sitting in my front yard tent, with heavy rain outside, I wrote an email to Indiahikes,” recalls Kaisü Walter.

Born in a family of teachers in Nagaland, Walter’s turning point came right after he graduated with a BCom degree. He decided to take a gap year and travel. When the money ran out, he sold one of the only things he owned to fund his adventures: his phone.

Eventually, Walter applied as an Assistant Trek Leader at Indiahikes wishing to start a professional journey in the outdoors. “When Walter came in, he was a shy, reserved kid in the corner. He rarely spoke or participated in conversations. I wondered how he would be able to lead a group of 20 every week,” shares Lakshmi, head of Learning & Development at Indiahikes.

Today, Walter confidently facilitates experiences for trekkers every week. He’s bristling with thoughts and ideas. His photographs are some of the best on the Indiahikes website. The change we see in him is remarkable. “Trekkers tell me they are deeply touched by the experiences he facilitates. Walter has quietly gone on to become one of the strongest trek leaders at Indiahikes,” shares Lakshmi.

Yet, Walter keeps his humility in place, taking inspiration from his trekkers and the world around him. “Once a 76-year-old woman was a part of one of my groups. She was so alive, she was so full of spirit, the inner-child in her was so alive!” he says, aspiring to be like her in his later years.

A pure trekker at heart, he adds, “I’ve seen that trekking adds a new perspective to life, and you won’t be the same person on the other end.”

➡️ Share your favorite memory of trekking with Walter.

[Indiahikes, Indiahikes Community, Trek Leading Story, Trek Leading, Transformation Story, Working At Indiahikes, Life At Indiahikes]

When it comes to buying a trekking shoe, there is no dearth of options. If you choose to shop online or any sports store...
07/26/2024

When it comes to buying a trekking shoe, there is no dearth of options. If you choose to shop online or any sports store, the options are infinite. However, a plethora of options can sometimes lead to confusion.

So, to make it easier for you to choose a trek shoe and also to not have any bias towards any brand, we asked our trekkers which trekking shoes they have used and loved.

We studied most of these shoes, the specifications, the reviews, and have arrived at these 5 best shoes under Rs 5000!

Most of these shoes are perfectly suited for local treks and easy-moderate Himalayan treks like Kedarkantha and Dayara Bugyal. But for a very long, difficult Himalayan trek, we would choose wisely out of these.

However we encourage you to rent instead of buying. Especially if you are a first time trekker. Not only will it save you the 1/10th of the buying cost, but it is a very sustainable choice as well.

If you’re not a regular trekker (someone who does at least 3-4 treks in a year), not using the shoes regularly will only reduce the quality of your shoe. So it is always better to rent if you are not planning to use it regularly.

If you are someone who plans to use these trek shoes regularly then these are some of the budgeted options to buy.

➡️ If you have used any other shoes that you would recommend, ideally within Rs 5,000, then mention them in the comment section.

➡️ Also share this post with someone who is planning for a trek soon.

Did you know there is a beautiful village on the other side of Pin Bhaba Pass?Trekkers say that the Pin Bhaba Pass trek ...
07/24/2024

Did you know there is a beautiful village on the other side of Pin Bhaba Pass?

Trekkers say that the Pin Bhaba Pass trek is only 60% complete if you don’t visit Mudh village after the trek.

On the last day of the trek, you trek for almost 14 km and reach a secluded village. This secluded village is called Mudh.

Mudh Village is the last motorable village in the Pin Valley of Spiti.

At the village, you’ll get a chance to delve into the splendid landscapes of the barren mountains, azure skies, and the Pin river that flows alongside the village. So we’d recommend to keep a camera handy.

The architecture and lifestyle of this village will astonish you. The houses in the village harmoniously blend with the rugged terrain of the valley. One interesting fact about the houses of Mudh is that these houses have flat roofs made of wooden beams and covered with a layer of mud to serve a dual purpose - they provide an extra living space during the summer months and are used for drying crops and food.

Life at Mudh village moves at a relaxed pace. Animal husbandry and agriculture, particularly Pea farming, are the main occupations in the village.

The people of Mudh Village are warm and welcoming and will make you feel at home.

You would also enjoy some mouth-watering Tibetan Momos and Thukpa. Tibetan food is unique and refreshing. Although they don’t use a lot of spices, the food will delight you.

You would be saddened if you did the trek and didn’t stay at this village later on. Which is why on the last day of the trek before heading back to Manali we make sure you experience the real magic of Mudh. Spending a day after your trek will give you a deeper glimpse into Buddhism and Tibetan culture. You will also take back ancient stories, memories, a new cuisine, and amazing photographs from this lovely Mudh village.

➡️ Have you been to this village? Let us know your experience in the comments!

Photo Credits:
Opening Slide: Deepak
Slide 2: Megha Naik
Slide 3-4: Teena Shah
Slide 5-7: Indiahikes Archives
Slide 8: Sangharsh Lohakare

“Trekkers come with fears—of heights, spiders, and being unable to complete the trek. I reassure them that the mountains...
07/23/2024

“Trekkers come with fears—of heights, spiders, and being unable to complete the trek. I reassure them that the mountains are greater than their fears and that taking one step at a time is all we need. I share stories throughout the trek and be with them. Witnessing the joy on their faces when they complete the trek is priceless. Treks are an opportunity to confront and conquer your fears. Everyone should trek,” happily shares Aneesh Jacob.

Born in Kerala, Aneesh had no idea about the Himalayas until he read an article about biking in Ladakh. Mountains became his new obsession. So much so that he convinced his parents to let him pursue a degree not offered easily in Kerala so that he could go to Dehradun and fulfil his dream. He says, “Thoda makhann lagane ke baad, they agreed. I trekked to Kedarnath as a student, but it was a nightmare because it was right after the flash floods. I was also not fit. I vowed never to trek again. But the mesmerising view from the top changed my mind.”

Despite not knowing Hindi and forsaking his love for non-vegetarian food, Aneesh continued to trek for six years and, upon the recommendation of a local, enrolled in the Basic Mountaineering Course. He worked in the tourism field in Manali but still missed the outdoors. Once, while searching for his next trek, he stumbled upon Indiahikes online and seized the opportunity, drawn to the Green Trails concept.

He chuckles, “My family was not happy with my decision; they still aren’t. But when I return home now, my mom sees the change in me. My anger has disappeared, and my way of talking to and treating people has changed. I belong here.”

From mothers who have missed their child’s first words to do a trek to students who cry when they struggle on the peaks, Aneesh has now found his calling in helping people from all walks of life on the slopes.

He says, “If I don’t get to eat food, it’s okay. But I can’t exist without the outdoors—the water bodies, the stars, and nature. They keep me happy. When I look at the sunsets and sunrises, it’s like meditation. Miraculously, I find the answers to all my questions.”

➡️ Share your favorite memory trekking with Aneesh

We are thrilled to open yet another trek in Central Asia, this time in the heart of Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh....
07/22/2024

We are thrilled to open yet another trek in Central Asia, this time in the heart of Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh. Pench, is one of the most famous tiger reserves in our country. This new trek runs through the buffer zone of this famous tiger reserve, teeming with flora and fauna, and yes, tigers too!

Trekking inside the Pench National Park is truly a privilege. Pench has been recognised as the reserve with the highest density of herbivores in the entire country. It is home to endangered animals like the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, leopards, the mighty Gaur, Indian wolf, and Sloth bear.

But more than the animals, it is the forests that steal your heart.

We have never seen such ideal forests for trekking, with beautifully carved trails (used by forest patrol officers). Deciduous canopies spread out above you; sometimes teak trees, sometimes mango, sometimes bamboo, and local trees like Mahua, Palash, and Arjun. The sheer variety in the trees is enchanting.

These are the very same forests where Rudyard Kipling’s characters of The Jungle Book were born, where Rudyard Kipling spent several years of his life. That’s why the name: Pench Mowgli Trek.

How difficult is the trek?

Pench Mowgli Trek is a ‘moderate’ trek, in terms of difficulty. It demands stronger legs to cover long distance and ideal judgment on footings for tricky descents. Amongst our low altitude treks, the Pench Mowgli trek poses a low risk terrain wise.

Since this is a new trek, we are only opening a pilot group for Pench Mowgli Trek.

What is a Pilot Group?
Our pilot group will have only 15 team members. Since this is not a full fledg-ed Indiahikes experience yet, we will be picky about the team. It will be a Semi-DIY trek and you are likely to be out of your comfort zone several times. So join only if you’re doubly sure of being part of the adventure.

➡️ Comment “Mowgli” to know more about the trek!

Nehal’s passion for preserving nature was like an heirloom she wanted to pass on, but it was a challenge in Mumbai. Unab...
07/22/2024

Nehal’s passion for preserving nature was like an heirloom she wanted to pass on, but it was a challenge in Mumbai. Unable to find a reliable travel company for young adults, she took matters into her own hands after her son Dev was born. Nehal founded ‘Heart and Soil,’ a community promoting outdoor activities and sustainable living for families.

Thanks to this initiative, Dev went camping at two and a half years of age which ignited his love for trekking and the outdoors. Last year, when Dev was 10, Nehal took her son on an Indiahikes Family Camp in Dayara Bugyal.

“We loved everything from the DIY activities to the food and the Green Trails initiative. We decided to make this a yearly ritual,” shares Nehal.

Little did they know that their next trek to Deoriatal-Chandrashila would be extremely different.

A few days before the trek, Nehal suffered a back spasm. Thinking she might be able to make it nevertheless, they both left home for the trek.

“Before the trek, I had asked him if I could not carry on, would Dev want to carry on without me? To my surprise, he told me he would complete the trek regardless,” shares Nehal. If it came to it, I knew it would be tough for me to let him go on his own, but I also trusted that he was in safe hands.

When the trek finally began, Nehal’s back did not hold. She was at the end of the group while her son was leading; She had to leave to the base without saying goodbye. “I started doubting my decision on the way back but half an hour later, I saw pictures of him on our WhatsApp group and felt confident,” recalls Nehal.

The first night away from his mother was tough, especially with an unexpected hailstorm. “Dev called me from his Trek Leader, Siddharth’s phone. I could sense he was emotional. I had to be strong for both of us,” shares Nehal.

The second day, filled with group activities, helped Dev regain his spirits. He learned new skills and made new friends. His trekking guides, Amitji and Karmaji were a constant source of motivation.

Story continued in the comments…

Address

245, Memorial Drive
Cullowhee, NC
28723

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 7pm
Tuesday 9am - 7pm
Wednesday 9am - 7pm
Thursday 9am - 6pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Indiahikes posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Indiahikes:

Videos

Share

What Is Indiahikes?

Indiahikes started almost 10 years ago with one vision: to define the future of trekking.

What began as one humble blogpost about the Roopkund trek has now blossomed into India’s largest trekking community and an authoritative source of all trek related information.

Nine years later, the Indiahikes website is the largest database of trek information in India.Thousands of trekkers use information on the Indiahikes website to go trekking on their own. Credible information has become the fulcrum that has taken trekking forward in India.

Being the last word on all trek related information is part of our core values. Since the time of Indiahikes’ inception, we have been working hard to gather, organise and make available any and all information to anyone even remotely interested in trekking.