Best Summer Treks in North India That’ll Take Your Breath Away

Summer has finally bestowed itself upon us. The sun’s on full power, ice cream is a must-have after every meal, and the urge to run away to the hills is hitting harder than ever. If you’ve been dreaming of winding mountain paths, pine trees towering all around, and views that would make your phone run out of storage, then you’ve come to the right place. It’s the season of summer treks, and know that there’s no better way to escape the heat than by heading to the highlands of North India.

And you the best part is that whatever the route, trekking in North India is both relaxing and exhilarating. Whether you’re looking for treks for beginners or want to complete the best Himalayan treks in the summer, these experiences are tailored to your inner adventurer. Think of this as your go-to guide for the best hiking trails in the world for beginners or advanced enthusiast, the most scenic places for trekking in North India, and everything in between. So, lace up those boots as it’s time to walk your way through the clouds.

Bhrigu Lake Trek

If you are looking for one of the best Himalayan treks in summer, Bhrigu Lake Trek is perfect for you. This summer Himalayan trek around Manali is a whopping 14010 feet and takes you to a surreal alpine lake in just four days – yes, just four.

The fact that this trek is only 25 km long makes it quite appealing, but its glorious views justify it completely, making it the top treks in North India. As you trek, witness the beauty of Hanuman Tibba, the Seven Sisters, and a shimmering blue-green lake that changes its hues as the summer progresses. Early in the season, the lake is adorned with icy rings. Come June, the surroundings burst into a riot of alpine blooms, making it one of the most scenic Himalayan treks out there.

Perfect for those looking for treks for beginners or a shorter trekking experience in India, Bhrigu Lake is a simple and quick rewarding trek. The sky is clear, the trails are free of obstructions, and sometimes, patches of snow exist to tickle your affection towards snow.

Beas Kund Trek

For all you first-time trekkers, the Beas Kund Trek is one of the best hiking trails in the world for beginners. Only a short distance from Manali, this three-day hike to 12,772 feet leads to the mythical glacial lake that is thought to be the source of the River Beas.

Oh, and don’t be fooled by the trail’s simplicity as this journey offers Himalayan drama right from the start. As you trek, the skyline is dominated by the tall peaks of Mt. Hanuman Tibba, Friendship Peak, and Shitidhar. This is one of those summer treks when the scenery changes constantly, from verdant valleys to frozen lakeshores.

If you’re looking for the best treks in Himachal Pradesh and especially for beginners, this one’s a no-brainer. Think starlit skies, emerald meadows, and that peaceful feeling of being surrounded by nature’s grandeur. Truly one of the most peaceful yet awe-inspiring places for trekking in North India.

Hampta Pass Trek

The Hampta Pass Trek, which rises to an altitude of 14,010 feet, is a cinematic 5-day adventure. This is where the flower-laden valleys of Kullu and the stark moon-like landscape of Spiti exist together. This is what makes it one of the most offbeat treks in Himachal Pradesh and a strong contender for the best Himalayan treks in summer.

Covering 28 km, it can be termed as easy to moderate and is perfect for adventure-seekers with a flair for drama. Witness sheep grazing at great heights, bubbling rivers, and the grand finale, the Chandratal Lake, a glacial crescent of glittering blue that makes the entire effort worthwhile.

The trek is accessible from mid-June, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch Chandratal in its full glory, which means defrosted, dreamy, and surrounded by towering Himalayan giants. This is undoubtedly among the most picturesque summer treks in India.

Buran Ghati Trek

If pushing your limits is your goal, then conquering Buran Ghati Trek would be your ultimate prize. It offers a breathtaking view from a height of 15,000 feet. This 7-day trek rewards you with a surge of adrenaline that is simply impossible to find anywhere else. It is one of the challenging summer treks in North India, but the one that will give you the most satisfaction.

The trail starts off with lush forests and open meadows, gradually rising to give you snow bridges, gushing streams, and a chilling encounter with the icy Chandranahan Lake. This lake remains frozen for most of the year and adds an eerie beauty to the landscape.

But what makes this trek stand out from the others is the astonishing 70-degree ice wall that one must rappel down. This epic feature makes Buran Ghati one of the most adventurous treks in India and an absolute must for thrill-seekers looking for summer Himalayan treks that go beyond the usual. Due to weather and altitude, this trek isn’t viable in winter, which is why April to mid-June is the perfect window to take it on.

Kuari Pass Trek

Get ready to explore the Kuari Pass Trek, the perfect trek to start your journey in the Himalayas. The trek is located in Uttarakhand and is definitely one of the best beginner-friendly treks in India. The Kuari Pass itself has hypnotic views of Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Kamet, and Hathi Ghoda Parvat, alongside beautiful campsites like Khullara and Chitrakantha which are surrounded by dense forests and open meadows.

The surreal camping grounds under a starry sky in the Himalayas are what make this trek the most rewarding summer trek in North India. The combination of mellow weather, easy paths and breathtaking sunrise views make this an epic trek for families, first-time trekkers, and even those chasing Instagram-worthy Himalayan moments.

Pangarchulla Peak Trek

Pangarchulla Peak Trek is a “starter summit” cause it’s challenging, photogenic, and addictive. This summit-style climb in the Garhwal Himalayas includes exhilarating ridge hikes, alpine meadows, and stunning views of Mt. Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Mana Peak. The climb is steep and the air crisp, but the 360° views from the summit? Pure magic.

Expect to pass through the magical settlements of Joshimath and Auli, providing a cultural element to your experience. With some luck, early summer trips to Himachal Pradesh may still have snow-covered routes, making them ideal for anyone searching for a snow journey in the summer. It’s one of those hidden gem treks in India that tests your grit while providing cinematic scenery around every corner.

Gomukh Tapovan Trek

The Gomukh Tapovan Trek is a holistic trek set against the backdrop of the dramatic Himalayas. From the sacred city of Gangotri, this trek journey takes you to Gomukh, the snout of the Gangotri Glacier and the origin of the River Ganga. The trail continues higher to Tapovan, a high-altitude meadow with breathtaking views attributed by gigantic like Mt. Shivling and the Bhagirathi Sisters.

This trek is a favourite among photographers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers alike. The summer season bathes the valley in wildflowers, sparkling glacier streams, and wide-open blue skies. It’s one of the most spiritually significant treks in India, yet also a feast for those chasing raw Himalayan wilderness and mythology-backed adventure.

So, whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just starting out, these summer treks in North India promise breathtaking views, refreshing climates, and unforgettable memories. From easy trails like the Beas Kund Trek and Kuari Pass Trek to slightly challenging routes like Hampta Pass and Pangarchulla Peak, there’s a perfect path for every kind of adventurer. These trails aren’t just scenic escapes but they’re some of the best Himalayan treks in summer and rank high among the best hiking trails in the world for beginners. So pack your bags, lace up those boots causr the mountains are calling.

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Cover Image Credits: Cayetano Gros via Lummi