19 DIY Treks In India Which You Can Do By Yourself But, With Precautions ✌
Mountains are a realm of their own, withstanding the tests of time mountains have been a reminder of the past and a precedent for the future. Treks are nature’s galleries, showcasing the unimaginable and waiting to be unexplored by the curious cats, DIY treks in India are opportunities that offer the solace with which one can wander and experience it first-hand. Trekking has a thrill of its own as the trails surprise you at every step and leave you yearning for more of its adrenaline rush.
“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.”
John Muir
Firstly Understand DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Trekking
At some point in time, everyone imagines being in the lap of nature and experiencing the wilderness mountains have to offer. Everyone dreams of seeing the sunrise from the top of a mountain or walking through the narrow paths alone to have their mind blown and taste the peace within them.
Doing treks alone appears and is a little complicated, but not something that cannot be taken care of with the right information and background study. Well, worry no more Scoutripper is here to help and guide lone adventurers in the way they should be, so scroll down to check off some of these DIY treks on your list.
DIY Treks in Jammu & Kashmir
1. Chattargul Mahlish Gangabal Trek
This DIY trek in India is where heaven exists on earth. The trek uncovers the unseen and unimaginable parts of Kashmir from alpine flowers to starry nights. It travels through the areas of Chattargul, Mahlish, Kolsar, and Trunkul exhibiting snow-clad mountains and offering an oligotrophic experience of fishing in the lakes.
| Total Distance | 32 km |
| Total Time | 6 Days |
| Best Time to Visit | June-October |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Altitude | 4000 m |
2. Bandipora Gangabal Naranag Trek
Exposing the pure beauty of nature this DIY trek in India is surrounded by lush green fields filled with varied flowers and dark green forests of pine. The charismatic lakes of Sarbal and Kundsar reflect sunlight like pearls of nature. The trek starts from the small village of Arin in Bandipora and the drive from Srinagar to Bandipora is a sight for sore eyes as the road run alongside the bank of the Jhelum river.
| Total Distance | 37-38 km |
| Total Time | 7 days |
| Best Time to Visit | June-October |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Altitude | 4000 m |
3. Tarsar Marsar Trek
This trek located in the heart of the seven formidable rivers of Kashmir is one of the most magnificent DIY treks in India. The trek offers a valley filled with velvet grass and striking views. The alpine lakes present here create a magical ambiance and make up for perfect campsites.
| Total Distance | 48 km |
| Total Time | 7 days |
| Best Time to Visit | July-August |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Altitude | 4115 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 13,000-16,000 |
4. Gangabal Lake Trek
Being called the “Eiger of Kashmir” the Gangabal Lake harbors some of the most picturesque views. Along with Nundkol lake, Gangabal lake forms a major part of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. Harmukh is a part of the Himalayas and slowly rises above Gangabal Lake making this DIY trek an unforgettable one.
| Total Distance | 30 km |
| Total Time | 4 days |
| Best Time to Visit | May-July and September-November |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Altitude | 3658 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 9,000-12,000 |
DIY Treks in Himachal Pradesh
1. Triund Trek
This DIY trek in India, actually teaches us that the smallest of things and places can be the most beautiful. Camping under the starry sky of Mcleodganj, Dharamshala is just the feeling. The perfect winter trek for lone adventurers and a short holiday where you get the most surreal of experiences with minimum effort.
| Total distance | 14 km |
|---|---|
| Total Time | 2 Days and 1 Night |
| Best Time to Visit | March-December |
| Difficulty Level | Easy-Moderate |
| Altitude | 9,500 ft |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 1,000 – 2,000 |
2. Laka Glacier Trek
This is a perfect trek for DIY trek enthusiasts to set foot in the higher ranges. Situated in the lap of Kangra valley and surrounded by the Dhauladar range, the trek offers a panoramic view of snow-clad peaks and terrains which can be easily navigated.
| Total distance | 36 km |
| Total Time | 3 days and 2 nights |
| Best Time to Visit | May, June, and September |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Altitude | 3200 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 3,000 – 5,000 |
3. Beas Kund Trek
Thousand-year-old alpine lake, Beas Kund the place from where the Beas river originates is a site unseen and unheard of. This DIY trek is a perfect blend of all forms of nature from meadows to waterfalls and a sight for sore eyes.
| Total distance | 16 km |
| Total Time | 3 days and 2 nights |
| Best Time to Visit | Mid-May and June |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Altitude | 3900 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 4,000-7,000 |
4. Prashar Lake Trek
Nestled in the lap of Kullu Valley this DIY trek is the epitome of serenity and peace. The temple of Rishi Prashar standing tall at the bank of the Prashar lake amidst the snow-clad mountains is a mesmerizing experience.
| Total Distance | 16 km |
| Total Time | 2 days and 1 night |
| Best Time to Visit | April, and May |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Altitude | 2730 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 2500-4,000 |
5. Kareri Lake Trek
The beautiful glacial lake of Kareri has an untold charm. The DIY trek in India, is a walk through the low canopies of pines, especially Chir and Chilgoza pines. The unfathomable greenery and the bird density will leave you amazed by this alluring trek.
| Total Distance | 13 km |
| Total Time | 5-6 hrs |
| Best Time to Visit | May-July |
| Difficulty level | Easy |
| Altitude | 9,650 ft |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 2500-5,000 |
6. Pandu Ropa Trek
A day trek perfect for wild spirits not looking to put in a lot of effort but amazing views. The trek travels to the alpine forest to the Pandu Ropa situated at an altitude of 3500 m.
| Total distance | 12-13 km |
| Total Time | 8 hrs |
| Best Time to Visit | June and July |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Altitude | 3500 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 800-1100 |
7. Tosh Valley Trek
The name of this DIY trek comes from the tributary of river Parvati, River Tosh. Present in the small and hidden village of Tosh and on the edge of Parvati valley, this trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
| Total distance | 6 km (to and fro) |
| Total Time | 2 days and 1 night |
| Best Time to Visit | April-June |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Altitude | 2400 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 1000-3000 |
8. Solang Valley Trek
The valley is situated at a 9km distance from Manali and is perfect for DIY enthusiasts. Situated in the most beautiful location the valley has views of Kullu valley and snow-clad peaks to leave you spellbound.
| Total distance | 9 km |
| Total Time | 2 days and 1 night |
| Best Time to Visit | April to August |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Altitude | 2600 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 1100-1500 |
9. Lamadugh Trek
Lamadugh, a high-altitude alpine meadow near old Manali, this DIY trek offers the thrill of an uphill climb while walking through the thick deodar forest.
| Total distance | 6-7 miles |
| Total Time | 1 day |
| Best Time to Visit | March-August |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Altitude | 3100 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 1200-1600 |
10. Bijli Mahadev Trek
This DIY trek in the Kullu valley leads up to a sacred temple of Lord Shiva and is accompanied by beautiful landscapes filled with tall lush trees.
| Total distance | 3 km |
| Total Time | 4-5 hrs |
| Best Time to Visit | March-September |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Altitude | 2460 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 1100-1600 |
11. Deo Tibba Trek
This DIY trek is home to the most stunning views of mountains. It offers views of Mt. Deo Tibba, Mt. Indrasan, and the Glaciers of Jatsukh and Deo Tibba this diversity of viewpoints makes the trek a special one. Nature here exists in its wildest form filled with alpine flowers and waterfalls.
| Total distance | 75 km |
| Total Time | 6 days and 5 nights |
| Best Time to Visit | May-June |
| Difficulty Level | moderate |
| Altitude | 3900 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 11,000-14,000 |
DIY Treks in Uttarakhand
1. Nag Tibba Trek
This trek is among the most beautiful and short DIY treks to do in India, with the ultimate summit of the highest peak of the Nag Tibba Range of The Garhwal Himalayas, giving you a paranormal view of Himalayan Ranges such as Swarghrohini, Kala Nag, Srikantha, Gangotri, and Bandarpoonch. The trek walks alongside the most beautiful sceneries and the thickest of forests to the calmest of streams. The trek is the perfect getaway as your short weekend DIY trek, breathe in the fresh air, and have a relaxing cup of tea.
| Total Distance | 15 km |
| Total Time | 2 Days |
| Best Time to Visit | April-June |
| Difficulty level | Easy-Moderate |
| Altitude | 9806 ft |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 1300 – 3500 |
2. Kedarkantha Trek
Not to get it confused with the famous Kedarnath Temple, Kedarkantha is one of the most popular and promising DIY treks to do in India, often called the “Queen of Winter Treks”. The trek takes you through the dense pine forests of the Govind National Park to the clearings which are too beautiful to be true. The trek is for all, from beginners to experts looking to bask in the unmatched beauty of the Himalayas alongside the most tranquil streams, rivers, and old mythological tales to have their fill of memories.
| Total Distance | 20 km |
| Total Time | 6 Days and 5 Nights |
| Best Time to Visit | November – April |
| Difficulty level | Easy-Moderate |
| Altitude | 12,500 ft |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 4500 – 11,000 |
3. Dodital Trek
This DIY trek has attracted people worldwide and is considered the most beautiful trek in Northern India. The chance to camp at the bank of the mesmerizing Dodital Lake is something you will definitely regret missing.
| Total distance | 54 km |
| Total Time | 6 days and 5 nights |
| Best Time to Visit | April-June |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Altitude | 4150 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 8,000-12,000 |
4. Har-ki-Dun Trek
Har-Ki-Dun Trek offers the most surreal view of the unseen valleys of the Garhwal Himalayas. It is a cradle-shaped valley situated in the eye of Govind Vallabh Pant National Park. This DIY trek in India, is among some of the most offbeat and easy treks, giving you an experience of everything from lush green valleys to the pine forest covering the snow-clad mountains. The main highlights are Swargarohini peaks, Kala Nag, etc.
| Total distance | 54 km |
| Total Time | 6-7 Days |
| Best Time to Visit | April-June |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Altitude | 11,850 ft |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 8,000 – 18,000 |
5. Chopta Chandrashila Tungnath Trek
This DIY trek offers you a vantage point at The infamous Tungnath Temple, the world’s highest Shiva temple. The trek gives a paranormal view of majestic and holy mountains like Gauri Parbhat, Hathi Parbhat, Gangotri Range, Kedarnath, Kedar dome, and many more. You will be left speechless by the rewarding landscape being incomparable to the efforts being put in. This DIY trek is one of its kind and at the top of the bucket list of treks to do in India for any and all travelers.
| Total Distance | 30 km |
| Total Time | 5 days |
| Best Time to Visit | March-August |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Altitude | 3700 m |
| Approx. Cost (per adult) | 9,000-14,000 |
Final Opinion For DIY Treks in India
DIY Trekking or the thrill to go on a trek alone is very prevalent nowadays but many miss out on it because of the lack of guidance and the right knowledge. Read this article and find out the DIY Trek in India that interests you most, you can read an in-depth article and itineraries about each of these locations on the website.
Scoutripper is here to help all the lone ‘n’ wild spirits and experts with the best of its resources and make sure to keep them hooked for the next upcoming DIY trek in India.
Feel free to reach out to us regarding any query related to DIY Trekking through our email or just drop your query in the comment section.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs for DIY Treks in India
What is the ideal age for trekking?
16-55 yrs is the said ideal age, but there is no hard and fast rule as long as you are healthy enough you won’t be devoid of the thrill of trekking.
What kind of shoes are required for trekking?
Don’t go for any kind of designer, fashionable, or high-brand shoes, just find the ones with good grip, waterproof material, and strong enough to support your feet while climbing or trekking up a mountain.
Do I need a first aid kit on the trek?
Treks are unexpected and so is the human body, it is always good to have your medicines and first aid kit as it helps to avoid the reactions a generalized medicine can cause to your body and also helps in a tension-free journey.
How to keep me healthy and active during trekking?
Keep yourself hydrated, don’t touch every plant you see they may or may not be harmful, take frequent breaks, and don’t over-exert yourself.
How to prepare yourself for a trek?
Start doing 30 mins or 1hr of daily brisk walking and some basic exercises like squats, jumping, etc for at least 15 days, so that your body can quickly adapt to the situation while walking.
Which is the Highest Trek in India?
Stok Kangri Trek of Ladhak at the altitude of 20,187 ft is the highest trek in India.
What kind of clothes do I take for my DIY trek?
The clothes don’t have to be fashionable or a specific type. The clothes should be just comfortable, and breathable, and can be layered easily as the temperatures increase on ascend and decrease on the descent.
Do I need to get a medical check-up before my DIY trek?
A medical checkup before the trek would be advisable as it gives you a recent picture of your body and can help in preventing any mishaps during trekking. Also, you can have prescribed medicines from your doctor for particular allergies or injuries.
What documents do I need to carry for my DIY trek?
A valid id proof is necessary and also other documents asked by the group leader or guide you are trekking with, have your documents laminated so that in case they fell somewhere dirty or wet the documents would be safe. Also, have your documents scanned and saved offline on your mobile phone as the documents can be misplaced or the internet may not be working.
What is the best time to do treks in Uttarakhand?
The best time would be April-June and October-November.
Related Articles
10 Best Hill Station In Himachal Pradesh, Highlights, FAQ’s
10 Best Hill Stations In Maharashtra, Highlights & FAQ’s
10 Best Hill Stations In West Bengal – Best Time, How to Reach Highlights & FAQs
10 Best Maharashtra Trekking Places, Highlights, Treks & FAQ’s
10 Best Trekking Places Near Delhi In 2024 & FAQ’s
