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.

The trek with the grandest mountain views of Uttarakhand

₹2,500 for transport to and from basecamp

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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QUICK INFORMATION ON KUARI PASS

Kuari Pass is a trek that takes you to a grand amphitheater offering the grandest views of Garhwal Himalayas. It offers some of Uttarakhand's most breathtaking mountain views, including the rare sight of Mt. Nanda Devi. From the start of the trek, you are greeted with incredible views of towering peaks, beautiful oak forests, and vast meadows. 

It is a great reward for those exploring the Himalayas for the first time. It’s a moderate trek with amazing rewards — forest walks, ridge climbs, and the exciting climb to Kuari Pass. It’s an experience you’ll carry with you forever.

Starting from Karchi, the trail takes you through dense forests, open meadows, and finally to Kuari Pass. Be it the forests on the way to Akhrotghetta or the sunsets at Khullara campsite, there are no ordinary days on the Kuari Pass Trek. On your summit day, you stand at the grand viewpoint of Khullara Top. The iconic shapes of Mt. Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kamet, Mana-Mandir Peaks, Dronagiri, the most iconic peaks of Garhwal, lay bare right in front of you. Next is a stunning ridge walk leading to the Chitrakantha meadows, before descending into the magical Tali campsite. Nestled in a forest of golden oaks and resting beside a gentle mountain stream, Tali is easily one of the most picturesque campsites.

Adding to all of this, Kuari Pass is a trek steeped in history. Famously known as the Lord Curzon Trail, this route has remained a timeless favourite among Himalayan treks for years. 

Kuari Pass is categorized as a moderate trek. It climbs to an altitude of 12,516 feet over a total distance of 22 km and is completed in six days. While the trek offers breathtaking views and thrilling experiences, there are a few tricky sections. Challenges include a steep 3,000 ft ascent on Day 1, narrow overhanging trails near Gorson Bugyal, and navigational difficulties in foggy weather. With proper preparation and fitness, even beginners can enjoy this rewarding trek safely.

Stunning views of Mt. Nanda Devi and other peaks

One of the biggest attractions of the Kuari Pass trek is its unmatched mountain views. From the very first day, you are greeted by towering giants like Mt. Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Chaukhamba, Kamet, and the Hathi-Gauri peaks. These peaks dominate the skyline, offering a mesmerizing backdrop as you trek through forests and meadows. The sight of Mt. Nanda Devi, in particular from Gorson Bugyal, is breathtaking. It leaves you in awe, and the view remains etched in your memory long after the trek ends.

Kuari Pass is home to ancient oak and rhododendron forests, which add a magical element to the trek. These dense, green canopies offer a peaceful, almost otherworldly experience as you walk through them. In winter, these forests transform into a snowy wonderland, with snow-laden branches creating a picture-perfect scene. The gentle gradients make these forest walks enjoyable and relaxing, giving you time to soak in the beauty of nature.

Expansive meadows that change with seasons

Once you leave the forests, the trail opens to vast alpine meadows like Gorson Bugyal and Chitrakantha. These meadows are a refreshing contrast to the dense woods and a delight to walk on. In early autumn, the meadows are lush green, while late autumn brings golden hues. In winter, a blanket of snow covers the landscape, creating a stark, white beauty. Each season offers a unique charm, making the trek visually stunning at any time of the year.

The moment you reach Khullara Top is the pinnacle of the trek. Surrounded by a sweeping panorama of snow-clad peaks, the feeling is both humbling and exhilarating. The climb to the pass is challenging but rewarding, and standing there amidst such grandeur is an unforgettable experience. For many, it’s a deeply emotional moment, a culmination of effort and awe.

Picturesque campsites at Tali and Khullara 

The campsites on this trek are remarkable. Whether it’s the quiet, forested setting of Tali or the open meadows of Khullara under the gaze of Mt. Dronagiri, each campsite offers something unique. Compared to most other treks, Kuari Pass has some of the most picture-perfect campsites.

Every element of the Kuari Pass trek, from open views of Garhwal's most iconic peaks to camping experiences and a fantastic ridge walk, comes together to make it an adventure to cherish. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned hiker, Kuari Pass promises memories that will last a lifetime.

What made this trek the really special was the team

I’d not recommend IndiaHikes to anyone who's looking to settle for less

In hindsight, I realised that there was a component of inconvenience that brought about a certain renewed perspective to life.

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 Kuari Pass 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 these 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 Jhandi Dhar

Get to know what is included in your trek fee here

➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo id along with the mandatory documents of the Medical Certificate. These document will be part of the Safety Check-in done by the trek leader when you arrive at the base camp. 

As the Joshimath Department has taken a call to ensure the trekkers are Medically fit . The already filled Medical certificates will be attested by them at Rs.100. This will be collected at the base camp by the trek leader.

➤Stay facility: Please note that you will be staying at Indiahikes Campuses at Karchi and Dhak. Do not leave getting your gear or anything else until the end.  Do not bring any packaged food, tags from your new clothes, or any waste with you. We follow a Dustbin Free Zone and No Wet Wipes Policy at our base camps in line with our spirit of Green Trails.

On the trek, you will be staying 2 in a tent.

➤Cloakroom facility for excess luggage: We have a cloakroom facility at the base camp for excess luggage. Anything beyond one bag is chargeable at Rs 500 per luggage. Do not leave any valuables in the cloakroom.

You'll love the drive to Karchi! The drive is very scenic along the mighty Ganges. You would be enjoying the view of the Sangam of many rivers which form the Ganges; Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karnprayag are a treat for the eyes. 

After Karnprayag, you would be travelling alongside the Alaknanda River. You then enter the beautiful valley of the Chamoli region. Keep your eyes open and look out, the glimpses of the big mountains are visible from here onwards. 

Try getting the seat on the left-hand side to get some stunning moments during your travel. The journey itself is a visual treat both ways. 

February 2016 Blog Contest Winner

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