Sandhya is a founding partner at Indiahikes. Over the past ten years, she has explored and put on the map few of the greatest Himalayan treks in India, including Kashmir Great Lakes and Kedarkantha. She is a TedX Speaker and has been awarded the Women of Worth Award by Outlook Business in 2017.  

She believes in sustainable living just as she believes in sustainable trekking. 

 Read a feature on Sandhya in Outlook Business

 Read Sandhya's other articles 

 Read Sandhya's TedX Talk 
How I Climbed The Mountain Of Entrepreneurship

Sandakphu is a beautiful trek in the north-east of India, and it’s not often that we come across such pictorial blog posts. This Photo Blog by Subhashis Pal will quickly take you up the trail, with mood-based pictures of the Tea-Houses, lovely villages, glimpses of the Sleeping Buddha and of course the sunsets and star-trails along the Sandakphu Trek.

This blog by Subhashis Pal has won the February 2016 Blog Contest!

“I am a PhD student and used to spent my whole day in lab. But one thing often happens with me, whenever I look out through the window, I miss one thing on the skyline, the Mountains.”

Congrats Subhashis Pal! Hope you get to trek more and inspire us more!

To see the winners of the February 2016 Photo Contest, click here.

February 2016 Blog Contest Winner

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Please note that this is a special trek designed for stargazing enthusiasts. The trek fee is slightly more than the regular fee. Know more about the trek here. 

This is a trek specially designed for trekkers above 58 years. The itinerary is specially designed to be different from a regular trek. The trek fee is also Rs 3000 more than the regular fee (Please note this is only for Himalayan treks) Know more about the trek here.  

Our Adventure Therapy Trek is led by a trained therapist, who will guide you through reflective and therapeutic exercises during the trek. To accommodate this expertise, the fee is ₹5,000 higher than our regular trek fee. Know more about the trek here. 

Please note that the family treks are meant for families with a child/children under 18 years of age. If you do not fit this criteria, you can register for any of our regular groups. Read more about family treks here.

Please note, this is an open Collaborative Leadership Programme with a focus on networking and building Collaborative Leadership skills for young professionals and university students. The trek fee is 5000 more than the regular fee. Learn more about the trek here: https://indiahikes.com/blog/open-collaborative-leadership-program

The Indiahikes Summer Camp aligns with the Adventurous Journey of the IAYP programme. Our treks provide a challenging outdoor experience where participants plan, train, and trek in an unfamiliar environment. They develop teamwork, leadership, and resilience while navigating trails, camping, and engaging with nature—fulfilling all the requirements of the IAYP Adventurous Journey.

You are joining our waitlist. Here are a few guidelines that you should keep in mind:

The chances of getting a confirmed slot totally depend on the cancellations we receive from confirmed trekkers. The cancellations cannot be predicted hence are uncertain.

We close the movement of the waitlist 7-15 days before the trek starts.

You don't have to pay right now. You will receive a notification upon confirmation of your slot. You will have 24 hours to pay and confirm your booking.

We are known for our pioneering safety practices in trekking. Microspikes, oximeters, and BP checks became standards thanks to us. In the mountains, emergencies don't care who you're with—everyone knows that when trouble hits, you look for the yellow tents of Indiahikes. When you join our treks, we first make our No-Compromise Safety Promise. It’s our unwavering commitment to keep you safe, no matter what.

Our No-Compromise Safety Promise

Our commitment to the environment is relentless. We don’t just encourage responsible trekking; we insist on it. That’s why our Green Trails principles are non-negotiable. They don’t involve just our trekkers or our staff members. Our entire trek processes and policies are designed to favour the environment, even if it is often counterintuitive to our business.

Our No-compromise Sustainability promise

More than 30,000 trekkers trek with us every year. In addition, our outdoor learning division (InSoul) has participants from the who’s of the education organisation in India, from the IIMs to BITS to top international schools. More than 5,000 participants from these institutions trek with us annually. We do not spend a single rupee on advertising to get these participants. Our reputation precedes us.

We are India’s largest trekking organisation

We are pioneers in trekking. Since 2007, we have documented and brought out most of India’s famous treks: Roopkund, Rupin Pass, Buran Ghati, Kedarkantha, Kashmir Great Lakes, Tarsar Marsar, Phulara Ridge—the list goes on. In 2023-24 alone, we brought out nine new treks in Indian trekking. We know treks better than anyone. This comes directly from the reason why Indiahikes was born: to bring out trek information and enable trekkers to trek on their own. We believe everyone must trek.

Being pioneers of trekking in India

We focus on designing transformative experiences. Our trek leaders conduct thought-provoking exercises that help you reflect and contemplate. This impact stays with you for a long time. Trekkers return feeling energised, more confident, or developing abilities to deal with difficulties. Many have changed careers, rethought their core values, become more humble, shown gratitude to others, or started a new fitness journey. 

Our treks are transformative

5 Reasons Why Indiahikes

Trekking comes with uncertainty. Weather, terrain, and setbacks are part of the journey. We embrace them with resilience and openness—each challenge makes us stronger and more appreciative of nature's beauty.

We blend into nature, not the other way around. We avoid shouting, loud music, and noisy games. In silence, we hear birdsong, streams, and the wind—inviting peace, reflection, and a deeper connection with nature.

We protect the environment by minimising waste, reusing resources, and picking up litter. We carry eco-bags, segregate waste, and inspire others to preserve trails. Sustainable trekking ensures these mountains remain beautiful for future generations.

We carry our load as much as possible, manage our gear, and stay prepared for all situations. Self-sufficiency builds confidence, independence, and respect for fellow trekkers, support staff, and the trail itself.  

Trekking is not a solo act. We wait for each other, share burdens, and uplift teammates. By putting the group first, we build strong bonds and help everyone complete the trek joyfully.

We train well before our treks. This helps us walk longer, handle emergencies, and contribute to the team. Fitness ensures we are never a burden and always ready to help when needed.

Trekking in the Himalayas comes with challenges such as heavy rain, roadblocks, floods, landslides, and permit restrictions imposed by the government. These situations are not within Indiahikes' control. 

Before you register, please be prepared for the possibility that your trek might be called off due to these uncontrollable factors. In such cases, Indiahikes will make every effort to offer you a safe alternative trek. If that isn't possible, we will cancel your trek and issue a voucher for the trek fee in line with our standard cancellation policy.

However, if you would like to receive a full refund of your fee under such circumstances, opt for the Indiahikes Shield while registering. This shield grants you the option to receive a refund in case your trek is cancelled due to external reasons. 

Why you should opt for Indiahikes Shield 

Security concerns and government orders often lead to last-minute cancellations in Jammu & Kashmir. While we make all the preparations to run the trek, we cannot guarantee that the trek will run. If such a situation occurs, we will try to organize an alternate trek within J&K or Himachal Pradesh, wherever possible. If not, we will cancel the trek and our cancellation policy will apply.

Such circumstances are under nobody's control, but it's best to be well-prepared.  As trekkers ourselves, we understand the loss that you go through when such circumstances arise. To protect against such circumstances, we have the Indiahikes Shield - where you can avail a return of your full trek fee by paying a small additional charge.  

We suggest you opt for the Indiahikes Shield, which will protect your trek fee during such uncertainties. You will find the option during the registration process.

Why you must opt for Indiahikes Shield on Kashmir Treks

When you offload, a mule or porter will carry your belongings.

Offloading is for those with injuries, health issues or other limitations

Book via Your Profile after trek registration. 

We will provide you with a weather-resistant kit bag to transfer your belongings.

The kitbag will be carried by mules or porters.

You will not need a backpack if you're offloading. However, you will need a small day pack.

Find details about the Indiahikes Offloading Process here.

At Indiahikes, we strongly believe that children must trek. Children aged 14 and below qualify for a 30% trek fee scholarship. Check out this article to learn more.


For every ten adult members (aged 15 and above) of the group, we waive off the trek fee for one person. Indiahikes will reimburse the said trek fee after you complete your trek.

A Trek that takes you to the Heart of Lahaul

We have an expert team of Trek Advisors to help you choose the right trek. So if you have questions like, "Can I do this trek?" or "Who else is trekking?", please get in touch.

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₹3,100 for transport to and from basecamp

Very few people in our country have trekked in Lahaul. Hidden across the Rohtang Pass, which would remain closed through most of the year, the region was cut off for trekkers. But with the opening of the Atal Tunnel, came the possibility of trekking in Lahaul throughout the monsoons, when Lahaul is at its lushest best. 

In this remote region of Lahaul, a valley filled with flowers hangs quietly, escaping the attention of trekkers. The route to this valley alternates between remote mountain valleys, quaint villages, and flower beds dominated by the overwhelming presence of Himalayan orchids. This valley is Miyar Valley.

The S-shaped Miyar Valley sits in between Zanskar and Chamba. It is nearly 75 km long. The Miyar glacier is nearly 36 km long to Kang La (17,600 ft pass to Zanskar). 

At the snout of the glacier are seven crystal clear blue ponds, considered to be sacred by Buddhists. Trekking here is a rare opportunity for most trekkers. And doing so in isolation, with very few others on the trail is a godsend. If you get a chance to trek to Miyar Valley, consider yourself lucky. 

5 Things We Love About the Miyar Valley Trek

1) A Climbing Paradise
Long before Miyar Valley gained recognition as a trekking destination, it was celebrated as a climber’s paradise. Mountaineers from across the globe have journeyed here to scale the Fortress Peaks, the Tharang Massif, and the formidable Menthosa. As you trek through the valley, you witness these towering giants in their full glory — from base to summit — their rugged slopes streaked with striking colours and textures. Near your Palpu campsite, you’ll even come across memorials of climbers who lost their lives attempting these peaks. At Miyar Valley, you are trekking through the heart of mountaineering history.

2) The High Altitude River Delta Landscape
After a stony climb up a steep slope ahead of Khanjer, you are greeted by the sight of a full-fledged Cricket Ground. Immediately after that, the entire view of Miyar Valley opens up in front of you. Just before reaching your first campsite at Yolling, you start seeing the iconic green meadows and river delta systems that define this trek. You see numerous small streams crisscrossing the region and merging to form the gushing Miyar River. Observe the striking features formed by silting or exchange stories with shepherds grazing their herds in the meadows.

3) The Boulders Around Zardong Campsite
The Zardong Campsite is known for its mountain views. Here, you feel surrounded by the icy giants of the valley with their giant glaciers and clouds playing around their top. But what we hardly talk about are the myriad boulders that surround your camp. Not only do they shelter the camp from harsh winds, but clambering up these boulders is a fun adventure in itself. Some are easy, others a bit more challenging and simply sitting atop one in stillness is a very immersive experience — a moment to connect with yourself that you’ll remember for a long time.

4) River Crossings on the Trek
On the Miyar Valley Trek, you are constantly accompanied by the Miyar stream and its smaller tributaries. You cross one of them just before reaching Palpu. Two more streams wait for you on the way to Summit from Palpu. Some of them are tricky due to the current. Others flow straight from glaciers and are icy cold. Wading through them is a challenge but also a memory to cherish forever.

5) The Mixed Culture of Lahaul
Just before you reach Yolling, you'll cross a Stupa which are known to be Buddhist structures. But very close to it, you'll also see a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is a hallmark of the unique mixed culture of Lahaul. If you speak to locals, you'll also notice that many have two names, one from a Tibetan Buddhist origin and other Hindu roots. Since Lahaul has long been a region where cultures have intermixed due to cross border trade, this is something very unique to the region. It's hardly that you get to experience this as a tourist. But as this trek takes you to the heart of Lahaul, you get these rare insider glimpses of the culture and history of the region.

When it comes to landscapes, terrain, or culture, the Miyar Valley Trek gives you a glimpse of Lahaul that most tourists never get to see. It’s still off the radar for many, which makes it a rare chance to explore one of the most remote and stunningly beautiful regions in our country.

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.

Use this section to learn about the Miyar Valley trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

Read our No-Compromise Sustainability Promise

Trekkers often ask us for hotel recommendations before or after their treks. Finding a good place using online listings can be tedious and tricky. So, through our network of trekkers and trek leaders, we have put together the best hotel recommendations in the major cities near our treks.

These are tried-and-tested recommendations—places we trust for comfort, cleanliness, and convenience. They’re also located near town centers and your pick-up points. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay or something a little more premium, you’ll find an option that suits your needs below.

Visible Peaks from Tharang Top

Watch these videos to plan and prepare for your trek.

- It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo ID for entry at forest check posts on the trek.

- At the base camp in Khanjer on Day 1, your stay will be arranged in homestays. This cost is included in your trek fee. 


IMPORTANT UPDATE (Since July 2024): The tourism department of Himachal Pradesh has stopped permitting children below 14 to do the Miyar Valley trek. This is an edition of regulations after the Sahastra Tal incident.

You are going on a Himalayan trek, where there are several unpredictable factors. It's best to book flexible flight tickets, which you can reschedule if required. These are available for a small added cost with most travel companies.

There are two ways to reach your pick-up point -- fly to Chandigarh on Day 0, proceed to Sector 43 and take a bus to Manali, or fly to Delhi, and take an overnight bus to Manali from ISBT Kashmiri Gate.

The drive to the basecamp of Miyar Valley can also be seen as a highlight of the trek. “The roads are beautiful and smooth, almost straight. So you have the visibility of the whole valley as you drive towards it,” shares Slope Manager Ravi Ranjan. 

On the left, if you are going towards Udaipur, just next to the Chandra river you see tiny villages. These remind you of a European setting. The houses are made tiny, diligently. They are not constructed haphazardly. It reminds you of Aru in Kashmir. It’s picture perfect, next to the valley. 

The Chandra river also keeps changing its colour. When the flow is high, the water towns brown. But in late September, when the flow has reduced, you see the colour turning to green. Good thing is, at every point on one side of the road you see the river flowing with you, like a constant companion. 

The valley of Lahaul, the villages have all exotic vegetables, fruits growing right next to the road!

While returning, you will reach Manali by 7.00 PM. Plan your travel any time after that from Manali.

As one of the veterans of the trekking community in India, here's Arjun Majumdar, the founder of Indiahikes, talking about the remotest trek in our country.

 Long days are  the biggest challenge on the trek.  Almost every day, you’ll cover 9 to 10 kilometers. This requires you to trek 7-8 hours daily. This is no mean feat at 12,000 ft above sea-level.

Right after you step out of Khanjer, a steep uphill climb awaits you. It leads to a high-altitude cricket ground, your gateway into the Miyar Valley. This initial ascent can be quite tiring. Please pace yourself properly in this section

There are several  river crossings on this trek. Palpu, where you camp on the fourth day of your trek, is situated in a river delta area. You need to cross a stream to get to this campsite and the current can catch you off-guard.

Even ahead of Palpu, you have two more stream crossings to navigate before reaching Kesar Yon Choo. These are glacial streams and  the water is freezing cold. Going barefoot into these streams demands physical and mental preparedness.

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