In this post, I’m sharing a list of the best treks for beginners in India. 

I’ve noticed that a lot of people are suddenly taking to trekking; nothing makes us happier. We’ve always believed in the transformative power of trekking. The more people experience it, the better this world becomes. Because nothing brings about transformation quite like a trek. It connects you to yourself, to others, and nature.

While many beginners are getting into trekking, I also see that they need the right guidance. So this video is here to help you choose the right trek.

I’m going to break this into four small segments. First, I’ll start with a cheat code. Then I’ll talk about treks for absolute beginners. After that, I’ll share treks for fit beginners. And finally, I’ll end with some bonus treks. 

I’ve also seen that people need more personal guidance, depending on your fitness, your background, the time of year, or whether you're trekking with family. So we have a team of Trek Advisors who can personally guide you. All you have to do is fill out this form to talk to our trek advisors, and we’ll get back to you.

Use this video as a starting point—to know which treks to do and which ones to avoid. Let’s get started.

If you’re a beginner, just head to the “Upcoming Treks” page on the Indiahikes website. You’ll find a category filter—Easy, Easy-Moderate, and Moderate treks. Choose from the Easy or Easy-Moderate treks—whether they’re in Central India, South India, or the Northern Himalayas—you’re safe. These are treks meant for beginners.

We’ve kept beginners in mind while exploring these trails. And any trek on this list will offer a good variety—forests, meadows, mountains. So use this cheat code to get started.

These are for you if you’ve never stepped onto a trekking trail before, don’t know what trekking is like, and don’t have a very active or fit lifestyle.

You walk through old pine and deodar forests on this trek. Every now and then, you’ll find quiet green clearings—perfect spots to sit down and listen to the gentle calls of birds all around you. Photo by Archana Solanki

This is perhaps our most misunderstood trek. Traditionally, people do a one-day visit to the Bijli Mahadev temple. But we take a completely different route that spans 3–4 days. Our trekkers find this one of the most relaxing, stress-relieving treks. You walk through beautiful forests of the Kullu Valley—long walks, but very enjoyable. Even families with young children (7–8 years) can do it. It’s a great stepping stone into the trekking world, without testing your endurance too much.

Click here to view the Bijli Mahadev trek page

The meadows of Dayara in the month of summer are in their best form. The never-ending rolling green hills are a treat for your eyes. Photo by Arjun Majumdar

This is usually my go-to recommendation for beginners who want a proper taste of the Himalayas. Dayara Bugyal offers tremendous variety and rewards for very little effort. Right from the base camp, you see big Himalayan peaks. Then you enter lovely forests, walk through alpine meadows, and climb to Dayara Top. It’s like a mini Himalayan trek. Slight fitness preparation—about 3–4 weeks—is needed, but it's very doable and very fulfilling.

Click here to view the Dayara Bugyal trek page

The reflection of Mt Chaukhamba and the associated ranges over Deoriatal is a sight that often moves trekkers to tears. Witnessing the alpen glow on these during sunset is something worth doing this trek for. Photo by Jothiranjan

Deoriatal-Chandrashila is one of my personal favourites—it was also my first Himalayan trek, so I have a soft spot for it. Like Dayara Bugyal, Deoriatal-Chandrashila packs a lot into just four days. You get to see the beautiful Deoriatal lake, with Mount Chaukhamba in the background. You walk through some of the densest jungles, and top it off with a climb to Tungnath and Chandrashila. That summit climb is truly special. It gives you one of the best panoramic views from just 12,000 feet. It's a little intense on one day (a 10 km walk), but manageable with preparation.

Click here to view the Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek page

As you leave Ali Bugyal and make your way towards Abin Kharak, Mt. Trishul will seem to grow larger with each step, its entire face rising steeply from the meadow, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring view. Photo by Arnab Jana

Ali Bedni Bugyal is one of the most underrated treks in India. Many know of it as part of the Roopkund trail, but Ali and Bedni Bugyal as a standalone trek is spectacular. The meadows here are vast, high-altitude, and incredibly scenic—with big Himalayan mountains rising right out of them. It’s a beautiful, beginner-friendly trek that more people should explore.

Click here to view the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek page

The sheer variety and volume of wildflowers in August can give massive competition to the famous Valley of Flowers Trek in Uttarakhand. Photo by Pritish Bhanushali

Chandrakhani Pass is a classic pass climb in Himachal, but much gentler than other pass treks like Rupin or Buran Ghati, which require experience. Chandrakhani gives you beautiful views of the Pir Panjal range and vast meadows filled with flowers. It’s the perfect introduction to a pass climb—just enough of a challenge, with rich scenic rewards.

Click here to view the Chandrakhani Pass trek page

These are for those of you who have some level of fitness—maybe you run, dance, play sports, or exercise regularly. You’re confident about your fitness and are okay with a bit of a challenge.

If there is a reason to do the Sandakphu-Phalut trek, it's for this: the majestic view of Kanchenjunga range, famously known as the sleeping Buddha. Photo by Sanjay Nargund

We classify Sandakphu as a moderate trek because it has longer walking days and climbs to a decent altitude. But if you're fit, it’s a great choice. It runs along the India–Nepal border, and you almost feel like you're trekking in Nepal, with its culture, tea houses, and warm hospitality. And the views? You don’t just see any peaks—you see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the entire Kanchenjunga range. The Sleeping Buddha formation on this trek is unforgettable.

Click here to view the Sandakphu trek page

You find a variety of wildflowers on the trail. Yellow, pink, red, and purple to name a few. Chat with the local guides to even find ones with medicinal value. Photo by Jothiranjan.

You may wonder—why recommend Hampta Pass to a beginner? But if you’re a fit beginner trekking with the safety and support of Indiahikes, you can do this. The pass climb and a few river crossings are challenging, but the rewards are immense. It’s a very dramatic trek—from lush green Kullu valleys to barren Spiti landscapes. One of the most famous and rewarding treks in India.

Click here to view the Hampta Pass trek page

The first glimpse of Tulian Lake makes you forget all your struggles. It's a beautiful sight. Photo by Lucas Bragagnollo

Most treks in Jammu & Kashmir are long and require a lot of endurance. But Tulian Lake is an exception. It has shorter days, smaller climbs, but still gives you stunning scenery. You pass through vast meadows and reach the emerald-blue Tulian Lake. For very little effort, you get to see the best of Kashmir.

Click here to view the Tulian Lake trek page

At Har ki Dun, Mt Swargarohini rising from the horizon is a sight that stays with you for a long time. Photo by Subhrajyoti Das

Har Ki Dun is one of the most well-known treks in India. It's often called a “500-year-old cultural trek.” You pass through ancient villages like Osla and Gangaad, where age-old customs are still alive. But beyond that, it’s also a beautiful valley trek—with a river flowing beside you all along and gorgeous mountain views at the end. Many trekkers who do this trek remember it as their favourite for life.

Click here to view the Har Ki Dun trek page

These are not just for beginners—they’re for anyone and everyone. Even if you’ve done 10 treks before, these are a must.

On the last day of the trek, you walk through the cool, ankle-deep waters of the Gopat River, with soft sand beneath your feet. You walk like this for hours—a rare and refreshing experience you won’t forget. Photo by Nitesh Kumar

The Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek is in the heart of Guru Ghasidas National Park. You trek through pristine sal forests, right inside a national park. You might not always spot wildlife, but you’ll see signs of it everywhere—pug marks, markings, trails. There’s also a beautiful river walk, and you camp on the riverbank and beside a large lake. It’s a very raw, immersive forest trek. Anyone from age 7 to 70+ can do it.

Click here to view the Chhattisgarh Jungle trek page

Trekking in an untouched jungle like Pench is a dream for wildlife lovers. You are constantly in awe of the signs of wildlife around you. Be it paw prints or deer antlers. There is always something to keep you engaged. Photo by Nitesh Kumar

The Pench Tiger Trail is in the buffer zone of the Pench Tiger Reserve—densely populated with tigers. While you may not actually spot a tiger (and we hope you don’t!), you will see pug marks and territorial markings on trees. There’s also a lovely river walk and incredible forest campsites. The landscape and wilderness experience here are like nothing you’ll find anywhere else in India—or the world.

Click here to view the Pench Tiger Trail trek page

Take a quick look at this table to refresh what you have just read. You can even share this with your friends and loved ones. Click here to download the table. 

I had to work on keeping this list short—there are many other treks I could’ve included like Kedarkantha, Valley of Flowers and Brahmatal. But the chosen treks are among those that give you a taste of all elements of a good trek. 

But remember, there are no strict rules that say beginners must only do certain treks. It all depends on your fitness and your outlook.

Ask yourself:
Are you fit enough to walk several kilometres a day?
Are you open to camping, to giving up your usual comforts?

If yes, most treks are open to you. I would only advise against difficult treks at the start—those require some experience. But everything else is fair game.

And like I said, talk to us before planning your trek. We’re here to help. Just fill out the form to talk to our trek advisors, and we’ll call you back and guide you personally based on when you want to trek, how fit you are, and what you’re expecting out of your trek.

New to Trekking? Here are 11 beginner-friendly treks across India—perfect for first-time trekkers looking for scenic and safe Himalayan experiences.

11 Best Treks for Beginners in India (Handpicked by Indiahikes)

A few days ago, I was speaking to Umesh ji, our Trek Coordinator from Sari, the base camp of the Deoriatal Chandrashila trek. He mentioned something unexpected—rhododendrons had already started blooming along the trail. In fact, they had begun as early as mid-January.

For trekkers, this might seem like a delightful surprise. Rhododendrons, with their bright red and pink blossoms, are a highlight of spring treks in the Himalayas. But as I looked into it further, I realised this was not a good sign. Early blooming is an indicator of climate change, and it has significant ecological consequences.

To understand this phenomenon better, I spoke to Avik Ghosh, a Researcher in Computational Chemistry, who has been studying rhododendrons for the past five years. What he shared confirmed that this shift is part of a much larger environmental concern

Rhododendrons are beginning to bloom much earlier than usual. Picture taken on the Ranthan Kharak trek by Akshay Kevin

Rhododendrons follow a seasonal cycle, blooming in response to temperature and daylight changes. Lower-altitude species bloom first, while high-altitude species, like Rhododendron campanulatum, flower much later, sometimes as late as July. However, these cycles are shifting.

“We are seeing a rapid decline in the duration of the spring season,” Avik explained. “The transition from winter to summer is happening much faster. Instead of a gradual warming, temperatures are rising abruptly, pushing plants to flower earlier than usual.”

This is not just a one-time occurrence. Over the past decade, researchers—and even trekkers—have observed rhododendrons blooming weeks ahead of schedule across multiple regions. Flowers that traditionally bloomed in March or April are now appearing as early as January or February.

Ecological Consequences of Early Blooming

At first glance, early blooming may not seem alarming. But its consequences extend far beyond the flowering season. It disrupts plant-pollinator relationships, affects biodiversity, and alters Himalayan ecosystems.

Rhododendrons rely on pollinators like bees and butterflies for reproduction. In return, these insects depend on nectar from the flowers. When blooming occurs earlier than usual, pollinators may not be active yet.

A 2011 study in Scientific Research Publishing found that when flowers bloom out of sync with pollinators, seed production declines. The absence of pollinators leads to lower pollination success, which weakens the regeneration of rhododendron populations.

We have noticed this firsthand on treks. When rhododendrons bloom too early, the usual buzzing of bees and fluttering of butterflies is eerily absent. This is not just a problem for rhododendrons. It disrupts an entire ecological network of plants and pollinators.

Historically, rhododendrons remained in bloom for nearly a month. Now, many flowers last for less than two weeks. Sudden rain spells, driven by unpredictable weather patterns, are damaging petals before they complete their natural cycle. In some cases, heavy rainfall is stripping flowers from trees altogether.

As trekkers, we have seen this change over the years. In places like Uttarakhand and Himachal, rhododendron forests that once stayed in bloom for weeks now fade away in just a few days. This quick blooming and wilting make it harder for the plants to reproduce and survive in the long run.

The Himalayas support a wide range of rhododendron species at different elevations. Erratic flowering patterns are altering the ecological balance in these regions. Birds, insects, and herbivores that depend on rhododendrons for food are affected by these changes.

A 2024 study published in ScienceDirect highlights that climate change is altering plant-pollinator relationships, leading to a decline in species diversity. If rhododendrons continue to bloom unpredictably, species that rely on them will struggle to adapt, creating a cascading effect on other plants and animals in the ecosystem.

We have seen trekkers marvel at these forests, not realising the delicate balance that sustains them. If we don’t take measures to protect these ecosystems, we risk losing not just rhododendrons but the rich biodiversity that depends on them.

Some rhododendron species have already disappeared from certain regions due to climate-induced habitat shifts. Species like Rhododendron formosum,  once found in Meghalaya India, has not been recorded in the wild in recent years, hence it has been labelled critically endangered. 

If current warming trends continue, more species could be at risk—especially those that grow within specific altitude ranges. The Indian Himalayas are home to 84 species* of rhododendrons, with the highest diversity found in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and North Bengal. Even a slight shift in climate conditions could impact their survival.

Some rhododendron species have already disappeared from certain regions due to climate-induced habitat shifts. If current warming trends continue, more species could be at risk. Picture shot on the Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek by Jothiranjan

How Changing Rhododendron Seasons Can Affect Local Communities

Rhododendrons are not just an ecological asset. They play a significant role in the livelihoods of Himalayan communities.

In Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Himachal Pradesh, rhododendron flowers are processed into:

Juices, syrups, jams, and wines – Uttarakhand alone produces over 40,000 bottles of rhododendron juice each year.

Traditional medicine – Some local healing practices use rhododendron extracts.

Woodcraft – Rhododendron wood is used for decorative and household tools.

If rhododendron populations decline or their flowering periods become too unpredictable, local economies may suffer. The short-term impact may be lower yields of rhododendron-based products, but the long-term consequences could be much greater.

At Indiahikes, we have always believed that trekking should go hand-in-hand with conservation. We are seeing firsthand how climate change is altering Himalayan landscapes. As trekkers, we cannot ignore these changes. It is essential to promote sustainable trekking, raise awareness, and support conservation efforts to protect these fragile ecosystems.

Reversing the trend of early blooming is not possible without addressing the root causes of climate change. However, conservation efforts can help protect rhododendron species and their habitats. Here's how we can contribute:

1. Strengthening Conservation Programs

National parks and biosphere reserves play a crucial role in preserving fragile ecosystems. For example, the Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand is home to diverse flora, including various rhododendron species. Similarly, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary in Sikkim protects around forty species of rhododendron trees, highlighting the importance of designated conservation areas. 

2. Monitoring Climate Patterns

Long-term data collection is essential to understand how species like rhododendrons respond to environmental changes. Consistent monitoring helps identify trends and informs adaptive conservation strategies, ensuring that interventions are timely and effective.

3. Encouraging Sustainable Tourism

Trekkers play a crucial role in conservation, and responsible trekking is the need of the hour. At Indiahikes, we have taken multiple steps to ensure that trekking remains sustainable. Our Green Trails promise is at the heart of this effort. We actively reduce waste on treks, encourage trekkers to carry eco-bags to collect litter, and run waste segregation and upcycling projects at our base camps. We also use bio toilets, solar energy, and locally sourced food to minimise environmental impact.

As a trekker, you play a direct role in preserving the mountains. Sticking to designated trails prevents damage to fragile vegetation, including the beautiful rhododendron forests that thrive in the Himalayas. Avoiding single-use plastics, respecting natural water sources, and keeping noise levels low help maintain the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Even something as simple as learning about the region’s biodiversity can change the way you interact with nature.

The mountains give us incredible experiences. In return, we must make sure our presence does not harm them. Every small action counts. 

4. Community-Based Conservation Initiatives

Integrating conservation principles into tourism can balance ecological preservation with economic stability. For instance, rewilding efforts are transforming luxury hotels worldwide, emphasizing eco-friendly and sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and local communities. Expanding such efforts to Himalayan regions could enhance conservation while supporting local livelihoods.

By collectively engaging in these strategies, we can mitigate the impacts of climate change on rhododendrons and preserve these vital ecosystems for future generations.

Trekkers play a crucial role in conservation, and responsible trekking is the need of the hour. Picture by Gauri Khamkar

Rhododendrons blooming early may look beautiful, but it’s a warning sign. It signals that our climate is changing at an alarming pace, disrupting natural cycles that have existed for centuries.

What’s happening with rhododendrons is just one piece of a much larger puzzle. Understanding these changes is crucial. With continued research and conservation efforts, it may be possible to mitigate some of the impacts. However, if current trends persist, the future of rhododendrons in the Himalayas will remain uncertain.

Rhododendrons blooming early in the Himalayas may seem beautiful, but it’s a warning sign of climate change. Learn why this shift disrupts ecosystems, affects pollinators, and threatens biodiversity.

Why Rhododendrons Blooming Early is Not a Good Sign

Over the years at Indiahikes, we have observed reservations among trekkers about insects on a trek. This insight applies not only to kids and teenagers but also to adults.

We share trekking trails not only with our fellow trekkers but with the diverse insects that inhabit them. When we venture into the outdoors, we inevitably encounter some common insect bites and understanding this reality is key to enjoying our time in nature to the fullest. 

In a similar context, recently when Lakshmi, Head of the Learning and Development team, was at Raithal, the base camp for one of our treks, she was accidentally bitten by a bee. The swelling lasted for almost four days, causing significant pain and itchiness. This experience made her realize how common insect bites are for trekkers and how important it is to know how to deal with them. 

The purpose of putting across this article is quite simple. All of us at Indiahikes believe that when you are empowered with information, you are less afraid of the things that can become a challenge for you on a trek.

Bee and Wasp Stings

This is a very simple formula for the outdoors: If you spot a bee or wasp nest, walk away calmly. They usually attack only when they feel threatened.

Moreover, the first signs and symptoms of an insect bite are crucial in identifying the cause. Whether it’s a bee sting or any other insect bite, recognising the symptoms helps in administering the right treatment.

Remove the stinger properly: Bees leave their stinger behind on your skin. Instead of using tweezers (which can push the venom deeper), slide a card or a hard object across your skin to dislodge it.

Apply a cooling cream: This helps with itching and swelling.

Take an antihistamine: If an allergic reaction occurs, antihistamines like Avil or Fexofenadine can be administered. Both Avil (Pheniramine) and Fexofenadine are antihistamines used to treat allergic reactions, including insect bites.

Monitor the swelling: It should subside within 4-5 days. If it persists, consult a doctor.

What to do if there are serious reactions?

In rare cases, an insect sting can cause anaphylactic shock, where your airways close up. Anaphylactic shock is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur in response to an insect sting, particularly from bees, wasps, or hornets. It can cause airway constriction, swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and even loss of consciousness.

People with a history of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) should always carry an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) and be familiar with its use. It's also crucial for trek leaders and teammates to know how to administer it in an emergency since anaphylaxis can escalate rapidly.

Our observation regarding allergic reactions to insect bites

Trek leaders at Indiahikes are trained to handle such emergencies. Former Trek Leader and Experience Manager at Indiahikes, Sanjay Mistry, observed that “children are more prone to developing rashes due to insect bites, particularly from mosquitoes, ants, or bedbugs. Their skin is more sensitive, and frequent scratching can worsen symptoms.”

Additionally, It is always advisable for trekkers with known allergies to carry their prescribed medicines.

Leeches

Leeches are not common on many Himalayan treks except the Goecha La. They are especially prevalent in slushy areas of this trek, particularly during the first few days. At lower altitude treks like Benog Tibba (5600 feet) they are frequently found near streams. Other than that, in treks in South and West India, you will encounter leeches, especially during the monsoon.

how to prevent or treat a leech bite (video)

Leeches bite by injecting a local anaesthetic and an anticoagulant called hirudin, preventing the victim from feeling pain while the leech feeds. This causes prolonged bleeding once the leech is removed. Since the anticoagulant thins the blood, clotting takes longer.

Leeches can be removed using sanitisers or salt, but salt kills them, which is not a good idea. So, the reason why using salt is discouraged is salt dehydrates and kills leeches. It can make them regurgitate stomach contents into the wound, increasing infection risk. Vinegar, alcohol, or strong-smelling substances can have a similar effect.

Sanitiser may work due to its alcohol content, but: It can also cause the leech to vomit, raising infection risks. The safest method is to use a fingernail or flat object to gently push the leech’s sucker sideways until it detaches.

How to stop the bleeding from a leech bite?

Pressure dressings and non-porous bandages can be effective. However, our trek leaders have also observed that pressing a dry piece of paper onto the wound helps seal it. It is essential to use antiseptics to effectively prevent infection. 

To effectively prevent leech bites, applying tobacco directly to the legs and feet works wonders. High-ankle socks or leech-proof socks are essential for added protection. Tucking your trousers into your socks is another smart strategy that trekkers have been following and it definitely offers an extra layer of defence.

Ticks

If you have trekked in Central and South India, you need no introduction to ticks. Ticks can be dangerous as they carry bacteria and viruses that may cause infections. A few months ago, our CEO, Arjun Majumdar, had a similar experience from his Pench Tiger Trail trek. 

So, what becomes important is prevention and proper removal

Use insect repellent: Apply a repellent on your body to keep ticks away.

Wear full-coverage clothing: Ensure there are no exposed areas where ticks can latch onto your skin.

Remove it correctly: Pull the tick perpendicular to your skin using tweezers. This prevents the mouthparts from getting stuck, which could lead to infection.

Treat the bite area: If swelling occurs, apply a topical antihistamine ointment. Cold compresses or ice packs are more effective in reducing swelling. For severe itchiness, an oral antihistamine may help.

Monitor for symptoms: If the bite is followed by fever or fatigue, seek medical attention immediately. Tick bites can lead to illnesses such as tick fever.

Sanjay recounts an incident involving a tick bite that occurred with one of his fellow trek leaders at Indiahikes. Read through: “Having been a trek leader, I have encountered cases of tick bites among trekkers. However, one specific incident involved a trek leader named Aniket at our Manali campus during the monsoon season. Due to a tick bite, his entire leg was badly swollen and red, and it remained painful for 2-3 weeks.”

He continues, “If the tick’s mouthparts remain in the skin and an infection develops, get medical intervention as soon as possible. It is always advisable to consult with a doctor if you suspect complications.”

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are one of the most common insects you’ll come across during a trek. Unfortunately, there’s no way to avoid them completely, but you can take steps to minimize the risk of bites.

Prevention is always the key! Here are a few tips that have consistently aided trekkers in reducing the troubles posed by mosquitoes.

Check for mosquito presence: Before your trek, find out if mosquitoes are a problem in the region you’re visiting.

Use insect repellent: Carry a mosquito repellent, either as a roll-on or topical cream—whichever is more comfortable for you.

Wear appropriate clothing: Light-colored, fully covered clothing helps reduce access points for mosquitoes.

This was all you needed to know about common insect bites on the treks. Write to me if you have any doubts or concerns. I would love to hear about your encounters with insect bites and how you tackled them. It would also help your fellow readers to make informed decisions.

When we venture into the outdoors, we inevitably encounter some common insect bites and understanding this reality is key to enjoying our time in nature to the fullest. 

Common Insect Bites on Treks and How to Handle Them

insect bites on treks, how to handle insect bites on treks

Over the years, what trekkers are looking for in a trek has been slowly evolving. If I talk about a decade back, most trekkers chose treks based on views, summit climbs, terrain, and adventure. However, as times change, a growing number of trekkers are also choosing treks for their natural elements. Today’s trekker is also interested in biodiversity, bird watching, flora and fauna.

One of the natural elements that stand out for trekkers is the presence of Rhododendrons on the trek. Their majestic bloom and cultural significance have secured them a special place in trekkers' hearts and local life.

This piece is dedicated to delivering a nuanced understanding of these botanical gems. Read through!

What are Rhododendrons? Where are They Found?

Rhododendrons are fondly referred to as "Rhodos" in the mountains. They are considered as the ‘glory of the Himalayas’. The most notable species, Rhododendron arboreum, thrives as a tree in lower altitudes, while smaller shrubs dominate higher elevations. This species is culturally significant across the Himalayas. It is prominent in areas like Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Nepal, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and the northern part of West Bengal. 

On treks, such as Ranthan Kharak, Deoriatal Chandrashila, Phulara Ridge, and Sandakphu, we see a variety of red, pink, white, or purple dominating the scenery. The colour keeps changing with the altitude, which means, you will not find a single colour rhodos throughout your trek.

Did You Know? Rhodos also have colours such as yellow and orange, though these are rarer and can be found in the eastern Himalayas.

The Ranthan trail passes through dense forests carpeted with rhododendrons, especially during their blooming season. Photo by Akshay Kevin.

How do the Colours of the Rhododendrons Change with Altitude?

While ascending to the summit on the treks in the Himalayas, you will notice a shift in the colours of Rhododendrons. As the altitude increases, the colours change as follows:

6,000 to 9,000 feet: Vibrant red rhododendrons bloom on trees.

8,500 to 10,000 feet: Pink and violet blooms dominate here.

Above 10,000 feet: White rhodos appear, with faint pink or violet tinges.

This palette of colours is a visual feast for trekkers traversing these altitudinal zones. 

But, Why do the Colours of the Rhododendrons Change with Altitude?

An enigma for many, the colour shift from red to pink to white with elevation remains under scientific study. This could stem from environmental adaptations to light, pollinators, and climatic conditions.

As altitude increases, the colour shifts to shades of pink. At above 10,000 feet, we get to see the lavender and white flowers. Photo by Akshay Kevin.

How do Rhododendrons Influence the Culture and Lives of Locals in the Himalayas?

Rhododendrons have a significant impact on the culture in the Himalayas. Red Rhododendrons are edible and are loved for their tangy-sweet taste. Consumed raw or made into juice, squash, chutneys and wine, they are popular in the Indian Himalayan regions.

Rhododendron wine is particularly popular in Nepal and Himachal Pradesh, while juices and squashes are common in Uttarakhand. 

All these products are made from the petals of the flowers, which are edible and are believed to have anti-inflammatory and other health-promoting properties. 

Talking about pink and white varieties: they are toxic and can be hard to digest due to the presence of certain proteins. Hence, they are never advised to be consumed.

Did You Know? Rhododendron campanulatum is the state flower of Himachal Pradesh. Rhododendron arboreum is recognized as the state tree of Uttarakhand and the state flower of Nagaland. Locally, they are referred to as Buransh in Uttarakhand and Gurans in Nepali language.

Ranthan Top in Spring. Photo by Akshay Kevin

How are Rhododendrons Globally Distributed?

Rhododendrons are found across multiple continents, primarily in Asia, Europe, and North America. In Europe, they mostly grow as shrubs. Interestingly, while rhododendrons have a positive cultural impact in the Himalayas, some species are invasive in regions like Scotland and New Zealand. 

For example, Rhododendron ponticum, in Scotland and other parts of Europe, is considered highly invasive. It inhibits the growth of native plants and produces toxic nectar, which creates poisonous honey. The honey produced by bees that feed on the nectar of the Rhododendron ponticum plant is called "mad honey."

Did You Know? Rhododendrons have extraordinary codependency with bumblebees, which are among their most effective pollinators. Their bell-shaped flowers house tightly packed pollen that bumblebees release (from the anthers) through "buzz pollination," a specialized vibrating mechanism. 

Climate Change, Rhododendrons, and Trekking

Rhododendrons are highly prone to temperature and are affected by the global rise in temperature or what is commonly called climate change.

During peak blooming, from mid-March to mid-April, trails of popular treks like Deoria Tal Chandrashila, Sandakphu, and Ranthan Kharak are carpeted with petals. However, the typical blooming season is shifting due to climate change. Early blooms as early as January or February are observed, especially at lower altitudes, disrupting patterns and raising ecological concerns. 

These seasonal anomalies call for deeper attention and mindful trekking practices.

Top 3 Rhododendron Treks in the Himalayas

Below I will list the three most famous treks in the Himalayas that give you an unparalleled taste of trekking through the rhodo-filled trails. 

If you are stepping on a trek to witness Rhododendrons, it is important to time your trek well. In Uttarakhand, the peak flowering season starts at the end of February and lasts until the middle of April. Whereas, in the eastern Himalayas, i.e. in Sikkim, Nepal and North Bengal, rhodos are in full bloom from early April to early May.

We fell in love with this trek because of the rhodos. On this trek, Rhododendrons are such a big highlight that the Ranthan Kharak trek can be synonymous with them. I recommend the peak blooming season, which runs from mid-March to mid-April. Just ahead of the forest section of the Namik village, you will start seeing them. From bushes and shrubs to tall Rhodo trees– you see them all in abundance and diversity. From reds to pinks and whites– they are everywhere.

It has not been long since we opened this trek but the amount of love trekkers have been pouring in in this trek is immense. And a major credit goes to Rhododendrons.

The trekking experience in spring is pleasant with mild temperatures. And what makes it more beautiful are the blooming rhododendron trees and flowers throughout the trail. Photo by our former trek leader Shivank Dwivedi

Soon after you start the Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek, you are welcomed by a dense rhododendron forest. The sheer amount of rhodos you find at this section of the trail will blow your mind. You reach Deorital Tal and see that too surrounded by rhodos in red, pink and magenta colours. 

On the following day as well, from Deoriatal to Syalmi, as you trek towards Jhandi top, a forest trail with maple and rhodos is lined up. Rohini Bugyal is another spot which is bestowed with a sheer amount of rhododendrons. It is a small meadow surrounded by a beautiful rhododendron forest and a view of the Kedar Dome and the Kala Parvat peaks.

You might believe you've encountered the most stunning rhodos but wait for the following days. As you trek further on the trail, starting from Baniya Kund campsite, you will see the most beautiful pink blooms. You won’t believe but the charm of these majestic blooms just doesn’t end on this trek. It stays with you throughout.

Trekkers have been loving this trek for so many reasons and we are glad that rhododendrons is one among them.

The grand entrance to the Rohini Bugyal. Photo by Jothiranjan

During the peak blooming season in spring, the trails of Sandakphu Phalut Trek are spread with pink, red, scarlet, and white flowers, creating a truly magical moment. Additionally, The bamboo and rhododendron forests of the Singalila National Park are among the densest in the Himalayas. 

Akshay Upreti, Slope Manager at Indiahikes, who has spent several months in the Sandakphu region, says, "The best rhododendron sections are between Samanden and Molley. The last stretch of this walk is entirely through rhododendron forests. The flowers are completely red and pink here. If you time your trek right, you'll be trekking in a sea of pink,".

As Spring arrives in March, a different kind of magic begins to unfold on this trek. Rhododendrons begin blooming. Photo by Sharat Kolke

This was my time sharing information on rhododendrons, especially, in the context of trekking and the Himalayas. 

Let me know in the comments section if you want me to cover any other information about the rhododendrons you have observed. I would love to hear if you have been on any of these treks and what your highlight is.

Rhododendrons are fondly referred to as "Rhodos" in the mountains. They are considered as the ‘glory of the Himalayas’. The most notable species, Rhododendron arboreum, thrives as a tree in lower altitudes, while smaller shrubs dominate higher elevations.

A Guide to Rhododendrons: Where to Find Them and When

rhododendrons, rhodos, rhododendron treks, when to find rhododendrons

A Guide to Rhododendrons: Where to Find Them and When?

Soon after we opened our groups in Mount Rinjani, our trekkers have been tossing many questions about trekking to an active volcano.

Mount Rinjani has always been very popular because of the thrill of looking into a volcanic crater, and trekkers around the globe have always been very fond of it. Izzat Yaganagi, Head of the Indiahikes School of Learning (InSOUL) Team, shared a similar story with all of us after completing this trek. 

Our trek information team has beautifully documented her account. You can read it here (Head to the experts speak section) 

This post is dedicated to addressing a very frequently asked question: 

Is Mount Rinjani still active? 

Mount Rinjani is known for being an active volcano, and though you may not always witness visible fumes, the potential activity adds an element of excitement to this trek. The visibility of fumes depends on the timing; sometimes trekkers have spotted them, while for other trekkers, they were absent.

The last time Mount Rinjani erupted was in late October 2015. The ashes from this 12,000-foot volcano blanketed the entire town and surrounding farmlands. Soon after, the government shut down air traffic to several airports.

Reports by several experts and a prominent educational channel, GeologyHub, which emphasises volcanoes and their current eruptions, had predicted Rinjani could erupt in 2024. 

Rinjani is known for a pattern of eruptions that have occurred approximately every decade over the past 100 years. However, it showed several signs of unrest in 2023.

Is it safe to trek to Mount Rinjani?

Mount Rinjani is known for being an active volcano. It has always been very popular because of the thrill of looking into a volcanic crater, and trekkers around the globe have always been very fond of it.

Expert Opinion

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