5 Places in India Specially for Hikers

Hiking can be a self-gratifying activity. It challenges you and lets you explore places you have been and have never been before. Plus, with every different location, various challenges and obstacles are unique to each destination. This is why you can anticipate new hiking spots you can try every time you travel.

On top of the many good things in India, such as the food, culture, and beautiful historic sites, India also has excellent hiking spots. If you have a plan to visit India, read on our list and visit one of these hiking spots below.

# Avahalli Forest Loop

Starting with easy routes, the Avahalli Forest Loop in India is one of locals’ and tourists’ most chosen hiking spots. This trail loops for 6.4 km and is available for hikers, those with bikes, and even walkers. This spot also has an elevation count of 199m, suitable for beginners and expert hikers.

The Avahalli Forest also has many trails, offering you a variety of experiences per trail. Some courses are rocky, allowing hikers and bikers to test their abilities. However, most tracks are paved with dirt, ensuring it is not too difficult.

# Chembra Peak, Kerala

The Chembra Peak, another excellent option for hiking, is located 90km northeast of Kozhikode. It is also the highest summit in Kerala, standing at 2100m- despite an easy day hike to reach the peak. Chembra Peak also features impressive biodiversity, preserving more than 300 species of flora and fauna. Nature enthusiasts can look out for beautiful greenery and endemic wildflowers. You might also see wild Asian elephants, hornbills, lion-tailed macaques, and Nilgiri tahr.

This hiking spot will also help you enjoy nature to the fullest. The pleasant trails will lead you to tea gardens and fragrant coffee plantations. There are also spice estates wealthy with delicious bouquets of pepper and cardamom as you stroll through the lush green forest.

# Sunset Point (Narhe) Loop

Another great beginner-friendly hiking spot is the Sunset Point Loop or Narhe Loop. Located near Pune, Maharashtra, this 4km loop takes around an hour to complete. It has an elevation gain of 127m and is kid-friendly, if you plan on bringing your family for a little hiking trip.

The Narhe Loop is partially paved and famous for being a great spot to birdwatch. This place also overlooks Ambegaon Lake and offers excellent sunsets or sunrise views. So, make sure to bring your Android phone to capture the stunning views while you are on your little hiking trip.

# Deoria Tal and Chandrashila Trek, Uttarakhand

Although this trail is accessible all year round, it is best to visit during winter as it offers spectacular scenery. The courses are as long as 18 to 20km and are easy to moderate in terms of difficulty. You can either make a round trip or plan a two-day stay if you would like it.

Deoria Tal is a picturesque lake located in the foothills of Uttarakhand, and the name translates to “the bathing place of Gods”. The trail starts from a pretty village called Sari and you can even navigate through the courses without a guide. However, the climb is steep but manageable, making this trek unsuitable for beginners.

# Goecha La Trek, Sikkim

This trek is for those hiking experts looking for challenging routes. The Goecha La Trek in Sikkim is a challenging route and stretches out 91km long. This hiking spot can last up to 10 days, requiring you to book a hiking trip with a trekking agency to visit.