Here is a list of the best trekking places in Himachal Pradesh with travel costs, the cheapest hostels, commutation, local food, safety tips, and FAQs. Ideal for Indian adventurers!
Introduction
Snuggled in the arms of the Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is a paradise for any trekker. From snow-capped mountains to verdant meadows and remote villages with centuries-old culture, this Indian state has something for every kind of traveler. If you are a newbie or a pro trekker, this state has pocket-friendly trek experiences to offer that will not cost you a bomb.
Throughout this blog you can read the ultimate guide to trekking in Himachal Pradesh—top trekking spots, how much trekking costs, cheap stays, transport info, cultural insights, what you need to eat, how to remain safe, useful apps, common doubts and questions, and more.
Top Trekking places In Himachal Pradesh
Here are some of the best trekking destinations, which not only provide a beautiful scenic landscape but also offer adventure and experience of local culture.
a. Triund Trek (Close to McLeod Ganj)
- Level: Easy to Moderate
- Duration: 1–2 days
- Highlight: Sunset view of the Dhauladhar range, best for beginners
It’s a favorite beginner trekking point for first-time trekkers in Himachal Pradesh. The path provides a gorgeous view of the Dhauladhar range and an even more amazing sunset. Being a short distance and an easy trek, it is a great weekend getaway for beginners.
b. Kheerganga Trek (Parvati Valley) Source: trekmunk Kheerganga Trek is a paradise for those wanting to escape into the wilderness.
- Level: Easy
- Duration: 2 days
- Spotlight: Hot springs and forest trails
The natural hot springs in Kheerganga are a major attraction. It winds through thick forests and along riverbanks, creating an atmosphere of tranquility. It’s a perfect trek for people who are looking for an easy, picturesque route with a side of excitement. The hot water springs at the end of the trek are great to unwind at.
c. Hampta Pass Trek
- Level: Moderate
- Duration: 5–6 days
- Highlight: Cross over from the green Kullu Valley to the barren Lahaul Valley.
The Hampta Pass trek is a thrilling experience that gives you a sample of two different worlds. You’ll be in green valleys and alpine meadows and glaciers as you travel from Kullu to Lahaul, a dramatically dissimilar region.
d. Beas Kund Trek
- Level: Moderate
- Duration: 3–4 days
- Highlights: High-altitude glacial-fed lake
Beas Kund is a lovely lake with a lot of mythological significance as well. The trail to Beas Kund is moderate and allows for a perfect view of several mountain ranges, Shivalik and Pir Panjal. The edges of the lake are flanked by acres of meadow, a perfect camping area.
e. Bhrigu Lake Trek
- Level: Moderate
- Duration: 3 days
- Highlight: Alpine meadows and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Bhrigu Lake is Himalayan heaven that every trekker wants to witness on the face of the earth. Its is moderately strenuous and is great for those who want a taste of the Himalayas, including steep ascents and easier passages.
f. Pin Parvati Pass Trek
- Level: Difficult
- Duration: 10–11 days
- Highlight: One of the most inflicting treks, not fit for beginners
It is one of the toughest treks in Himachal Pradesh, linking Parvati Valley in Kullu with Pin Valley in Spiti. It’s an opportunity for any serious trekker who has some extra time in their schedule, as the views of glaciers, valleys, and peaks simply cannot be beat. This is a must-do trek for a skilled trekker only.
g. Indrahar Pass Trek
- Level: Moderate to Difficult
- Duration: 4–5 days
- Highlights: Ancient paths, high pass and rocky terrain
The trek to Indrahar Pass is an ancient trek that discovers a variety of terrains, including thick deodar forests and thorny, serrated mountain ridges along the way. It links Kangra Valley and Chamba Valley and provides an insight into the lifestyle of the local people. The walk is moderate to challenging, so it is suitable for experienced trekkers.
Budget Daily Cost of Living:
It is very much possible for a tight-budgeted trekker to be able to prepare a trip in ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 per day. Here’s a breakdown:
Category
Estimated Daily Cost (INR)
Local Transport
₹200–₹400
Meals (Local Dhaba)
₹300–₹500
Accommodation (Budget)
₹500–₹800
Guide (Optional)
₹500–₹700 (Split among group)
Miscellaneous
₹100–₹200
Total Daily Budget
₹1,200–₹2,000
Tip: A group tour helps keep down the cost of guides, tents, and camping equipment. Always check the prices online first before you book to go anywhere you can on transport and accommodation.
Reasonably Priced Places to Stay
You don’t have to stay at a luxury resort to experience the Himalayas. Here are some budget-friendly options:
- Hostels & Guesthouses—Zostel, goSTOPS, The Hosteller (₹500-₹1000 per night)
- Homestays—Live Himachali way with homemade food and cozy hospitality (₹400–₹800)
- Campsites—Triund, Kheerganga, Hampta have camping options (₹300–₹700 per night)
- Budget Hotel—Downtown near to all base village and Military stations
Pro tip: Keep an eye on platforms like Booking.com, MakeMyTrip, or Airbnb to check prices and reviews before booking.
How to Get There
The following are popular means to access trekking areas :
By Air:
Closest airports: Bhuntar (Kullu), Kangra (Dharamshala), Shimla
Make your way to the starting point of your trek by local buses or cabs from the airport.
By Train:
Joginder Nagar (for Barot, Mandi) Pathankot (for Dharamshala)
By Bus/Car:
Daily HRTC and private buses from Delhi, Chandigarh and Punjab going to major towns like Manali, Mandi, Dharamshala, Kullu, Kasol etc.
Tip: Overnight Volvo buses from Delhi are cheap and time-saving.
Best Time to Go for Trekking
- Summer (April – June): Best for most treks — clear skies and unobstructed views.
- Monsoon (July to September): No long treks – very slippery trails and landslides.
- Autumn (October–November): Gusty winds, cold, and very clear visibility.
- Winter (December-March): Only a few treks are open, and only for experienced trekkers—snow trekking.
Local Culture and Best Local Food
Himachal Pradesh is endowed with many folk influences from the Hindu tradition as well as from Tibetan Buddhism. The people are so friendly and kind and extremely helpful.
Must-Try Foods:
- Siddu—steamed bread with butter/ghee
- Chha Gosht—mutton in a yogurt based gravy
- Madra – A rich Pahari curry
- Tudkiya Bhath—spicy rice & split yellow pea pilaf with tomatoes & coconut.
- Local Thalis—You can get these is dhabas (available)
Pro tip: Eat home-cooked food in your homestays whenever possible. It’s genuine, it’s safe, and it’s affordable.
Tips on Safety and Travel for First-Time Visitors
- Acclimatization for high-altitude treks (like 1 day rest in manali or kasol)
- Bring a first aid kit, flashlight, water bottles, and snack bars.
- Do not drink stream water without treating it first
- Wear good trekking shoes and thick layers of clothing
- Let someone know where you’re trekking at all times
- Enlist local guides for extended or off-the-beaten-path hikes
- If you’re a noob, travel in a pack
- Culture Respect the culture and environment; do not litter.
Useful Travel Apps & Websites
Maps.me—Offline hiking trails maps
- This trek is organized by the company Trek the Himalayas (Glide a District)—Guided Trek Products home Shop page Trek the Himalayas (Glide a District)—Guided Trek Booking Source trekthehimalayas.com Reviews There are no reviews yet. Just search for other solutions here! Trek days Hotel type Hotel nights Trek days Hotel type Hotel nights The Rupin Pass trek is quite an adventure, to say the least!
- RedBus—Book Bus Tickets To Himachal
- IRCTC Rail Connect—For booking train tickets
- Zostel / Hosteller / goSTOPS—for booking hostels
- Weather.com/IMD app—for the latest weather information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (Google/Quora Style)
Q1. Is the Triund Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is one of the simplest and most rewarding treks.
Q2. Is it fine if I do the trek in Himachal without any guide?
Yes, if you are going for small and popular treks like Triund or Kheerganga. For longer rambles, hire a guide.
Q3. How much does it cost to trek in Himachal Pradesh?
A simple trek can cost anywhere between ₹3,000 and ₹10,000, depending on the length of time, place of stay, and mode of transport.
Q4. What gear should I carry while on a Himalayan trek?
Trekking shoes, warm clothes, a waterproof jacket, a first aid kit, a torch, a water bottle, and identity proofs.
Q5. Which is the best trek for beauty in Himachal?
Hampta Pass and Bhrigu Lake have beautiful terrains to explore.
FAQs
Q: Is permission required for trekking in Himachal?
Yes, on some treks (like Pin Parvati). Local guides assist with permits.
Q: If I’m a female, can I hike alone?
Yes, particularly on popular routes. But it’s better in groups or with local guides.
Q: So are there camping facilities?
Yes. You can rent tents or participate in camping packages.
Q: Can I go for a winter trek in Himachal?
Yes, with the right gear and experience. Opt for snow treks like Prashar Lake and Tosh.
Q: (Mobile Connection?)
BSNL and Jio work in most of the areas except the high-altitude camps.
Final Thoughts
Hiking in Himachal Pradesh isn’t just about the nature — it’s the local culture, the warm people, and the simple way of life. HuffPost: Some people see travel to the Himalayas as a logistical maze that only the super wealthy can afford to navigate.