By Charita Negi 
During monsoons in India, the Himalayas are turned into clouds-filled and colorful wonders of the world. Though most tourists avoid trekking in the rains, it rewards its adventurous souls by providing them with calm treks with blossoming meadows and clouds in the tops of mountains. Looking to fall under a waterfall, a field of flowers, or just that reflective alone-in-the-wild sort of feel that extreme rain alone can bring? Look no further- here are the 5 best monsoon treks in India. Carefully selected because they are safer, accessible, and look picturesque, each of these treks becomes lively only when the rain comes.
Then there are the benefits, fewer crowds, cooler weather and a possibility to see nature in its most dramatic form. These treks fit both amateurs and those who consider themselves seasoned hikers to be able to see the wild nature of the Himalayas.
Here are the Best 5 Monsoon Treks in India
Valley of Flowers Trek – A Blooming Paradise in the Rain
Undoubtedly, the Valley of Flowers is the jewel to monsoon treks India. One of the most interesting UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Uttarakhand, the Chamoli district is tucked away and active only in the monsoons between mid-July and early September. Just visualize yourself walking through a valley full of so many beautiful alpine flowers in excess of 600 species that the colors are enhanced because of the rain that is still falling so softly and the sunlight filtering through. You will stroll along the banks of glinting streams, traverse across quaint wooden bridges and stop to smell the of waterfall cascading down the sheer mountainsides.
The sky has gloomy clouds that hang down, and give a sense of mystery to any scene. With some luck, you may even find rare Himalayan flowers: blue poppy, or Brahma Kamal. The trek is a moderate grade trek, which does not only give you a visual feast, but also leaves you spiritually and senses saturated as you feel like you are walking in a painting. The vast majority of trekkers add on a visit to Hemkund Sahib (sometimes written Hemkunt), a temple of the Sikhs in the mountains, with snow-capped mountains and a glacier-fed lake. The trip is an ideal combination of nature, calm, and adventure. Among these, this is the best trek out of the 5 best monsoon treks in India.
Hampta Pass Trek – Monsoon’s Grand Contrast Show
The Hampta Pass Trek of Himachal Pradesh is ideal once one desires to spend the journey in two totally diverse terrains. Beginning at the green green valleys of Kullu, you are slowly up to Hampta Pass some 14,000 ft. approx and then down into the austere desert like Lahaul and Spiti. In monsoon, the Kullu side is bathed in green- picture pastoral meadows, pine also-wreathed forests and streams that surge with life. At each twist in the trail you are greeted by a new cascade or an abrupt opening of epic vistas. This is because the dramatic change of scenery is the true excitement of Hampta; the humid forests are exchanged with arid cold mountains.
This contrast is only increased by the rains. And what about the enchanted diversion to Chandratal Lake, an alpine lake shaped like a moon and with waters so clear you think are seeing through stuff, with only mountains around. The monsoon clouds you can see on its placid waters will make you speechless. It is challenging enough and it is exactly what adventure-seekers want to see when they desire to see the whole palette of Himalayan beauty in a single package.
Nag Tibba Trek – A Misty Weekend Escape
The Nag Tibba Trek is highly recommendable in case you have limited time and wish to have a monsoon trek with us. This easy-moderate weekend trek is close to Mussoorie and it does not spare a lot of time and efforts as it provides the magnificent Himalayan views that people need. Thick forest road full of life during the rain is another specialty of Nag Tibba during the monsoons. The ferns unfold, the birds chirp louder and the path is petulantly caressed by little mists of fog and drizzle.
The vistas keep opening up as you walk higher on to the far off mountains Bandarpoonch, Kedarnath etc. which, at times would show up poking through a dense cloud cover. You will walk past little Garhwali villages, good-natured shepherds and perhaps you will see the cattle out in meadows grazing. Near the top is a tiny temple to the Serpent God — “Nag Devta”– and on a clear day the view is spectacular. It is a serene and cool journey and this is ideal to someone who is looking forward to a panicked trip in the rails.
Dayara Bugyal Trek (Uttarakhand)
Dayara Bugyal is one of the longest alpine meadows of the Uttarakhand state situated between June to the month of September when wildflowers and fresh gratitude blaze and cover the slopes with grasses. This is a moderate to easy 4-5 days trek begins at Raithal halt where the trek proceeds along enjoyment in thick forests of oak and rhododendron before coming to flat and carpet like meadows that flow downhill gently and are marked with large landscapes.
It is an emerald canvas during monsoon with colorful flowers and backdropped with far off mountains like Bandarpoonch, Srikanth, Draupadi Ka Danda and Jaunli, which is quite frequently found peering out of the clouds changing shapes. The easy accessibility as well as the scenic beauty of the trail makes it a great option among the first-time trekkers, families, and any one willing to absorb the Himalayan monsoon excitement.
The grandeur of Dayara in rains can be witnessed by the manner in which the mist travels across the meadows in the sunrise creating surreal dreams which look almost unreal. Spending a night out in the open, listening to far away thunder and rain hitting your tent is something that you will never forget when you camp here. Dayara is equal parts accessible, picturesque and monsoon enchanted regardless of whether you are an experienced trekker or have never been trekking before.
Also Read: Everest Base Camp Trek Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Har Ki Dun Trek (Uttarakhand)
The Har Ki Dun Trek is an ancient route that passes through the tiny villages of Garhwal and passes through the legendary region known as the Valley of Gods finishing with a journey through lush meadows, clear lakes and thick climbing to the head of the valley at 10,000 ft. where the real mountains can be experienced . This is a moderate trek that spans over 7-8 days and takes you through a lush vegetation of green forests, flower-laden meadows and cascading streams leading on to beautiful Himalayan villages like Osla and Seema.
The plain at the bottom the valley which is framed by steep sides and snow covered mountains such as Swargarohini opens into picturesque alpine pastures studded with periodic waterfalls so that the land is divine and primitive at the same time during the monsoon season TripZilla India . In addition to the natural beauty, the trek offers some insight into rural living in the Himalaya in terms of traditional houses, wood‑burning stoves and villager culture along the path. Among these, this is the best trek out of the 5 best monsoon treks in India.
FAQ
It is, of course, safe in average cases when you travel with a licensed hike group and monitor weather conditions on a regular basis. The trail is not really steep but since the rain during the monsoons may be slippery some parts, trekking shoes with good grips are necessary.
During monsoon Himalayan monals, pheasants, even barking deer can be spotted in lower forested areas. When it rains, there are many diverse types of butterflies and insects thus making the ecosystem very lively.
Temperature during the night could be as low as 5–8 C in higher camps such as Dayara even during rainy season. Warmer clothing is recommended in the form of one warm jacket, thermals and waterproofs to keep out of the rain.
You will have some network (mostly Jio and BSNL) to Raithal and possibly the initial parts of the trek. After you ascend to higher camps, the network is either become inconsistent or non-existent altogether- which is ideal in case you desire a digital detox.
Though it is an easily approachable trail, one should not trek alone during monsoon because of poor phone connectivity and weather guarantee. The safest way is to trek in a group or trek in a professional company that will avail of guides, safety support, logistical assistance.