Trekking in Garhwal Kumaon Region, Uttarakhand
Himalayan foothills of Garhwal and Kumaon are ideal for trekking enthusiasts. The evergreen hills here are covered with dense forests of Deodar, Oak and Pine trees and have been blessed with flora, fauna and a number of bird species. These areas are also famous for Hindu pilgrimage tours. It attracts trekkers from around the world to quench their thirst of exploring nature in Himalayas.Trekking in Himalayas gives you an unforgettable life experience of exploring the rugged beauty of its lofty mountains covered with snow and evergreen Pine forests. These mountains have the potential of touching the adventure freak in anyone. Apart from trekking there are enormous opportunities for adventure lovers in Himalayas.
Major Trekking Routes of Garhwal and Kumaon Regions
Kedarnath-Vasuki Tal Trek
Kedarnath is a pilgrimage place of Hindus and is located at an altitude of 3,584 meters above mean sea level. Trekking on this route starts from Gaurikund. Gaurikund is famous for its hot water Sulphur springs and it is believed that a bath in Sulphur water treats all your ailments. Passing from dense green forests, blessed with a variety of flora, the trip ends at Vasuki Tal. Vasuki Tal is a beautiful lake with clear water and from here one can see beautiful peaks of Chaukhmba and Mandakini. The best season to visit is from May to June and August to October as the month of July witnesses heavy monsoon in this region.
Gangotri-Gaumukh-Nandavan-Tapovan Trek
This is one of the treks in Uttarakhand where a trekker can have all kinds of experiences from climbing mountains, traversing glaciers and rock climbing. On the way one has to cross jungles of Pine and Birch trees in Chir Basa and Bhojasa. Before reaching Tapovan, which is surrounded by many mountains, one has to cross the Gangotri glacier. This trekking route is a rare experience for trekkers seeking adventure and having basic knowledge about mountains.
Rishikesh-Pauri-Binsar Trek
This trekking expedition passes from rich forests of Oak, Pine, Deodar and Fir trees, which are a habitat for a number of species of birds. Rishikesh is a holy place of Hindus with famous temple of Lord Shiva located in its calm environment. It starts from Thalisain, located at an altitude of 1,579 meters above sea level and passes from enchanting hills of Pauri, to culminate at its destination, Binsar. Binsar is a picturesque place in Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand from where one can have a view of snowcapped Himalayan mountain range.