Choosing your first (or next) Himalayan trek can be overwhelming with so many beautiful options. This comprehensive comparison breaks down five of the most popular beginner to moderate-level treks in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, helping you make an informed decision based on your interests, fitness level, and what you want from your trekking experience.
Quick Comparison Table
| Trek | Location | Duration | Distance | Max Altitude | Difficulty | Best Season | Cost Range | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kedarkantha | Uttarakhand | 5-6 days | 20-25 km | 12,500 ft | Moderate | Dec-Mar | ₹8,000-₹20,000 | Queen of Winter Treks |
| Brahmatal | Uttarakhand | 6-7 days | 22-30 km | 12,250 ft | Easy-Moderate | Dec-Mar | ₹6,000-₹11,000 | Mt. Trishul close-up views |
| Gulabi Kantha | Uttarakhand | 5 days | 24-26 km | 12,000 ft | Easy-Moderate | May-Jun, Sep-Nov | ₹10,000-₹14,000 | Pink meadows & offbeat |
| Patalsu Peak | Himachal | 3-4 days | 16-18 km | 13,990 ft | Moderate | Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct | ₹7,000-₹12,000 | Easiest summit experience |
| Nag Tibba | Uttarakhand | 2-3 days | 16 km | 9,915 ft | Easy | Year-round | ₹1,300-₹7,000 | Best weekend trek |
1. Kedarkantha Trek: The Queen of Winter Treks
Overview
Kedarkantha trek is undoubtedly the most famous winter trek in India, and for good reason. Starting from the picturesque village of Sankri in Uttarakhand’s Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, this trek offers consistent snow cover, magnificent Himalayan views, and a proper summit experience that leaves trekkers with a profound sense of accomplishment.
Trek Profile
- Location: Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand
- Distance: 20-25 kilometers total
- Duration: 5-6 days (including travel from Dehradun)
- Maximum Altitude: 12,500 feet (3,810 meters) at Kedarkantha Peak
- Difficulty Level: Moderate (suitable for beginners with basic fitness)
- Base Camp: Sankri Village (6,400 ft)
- Best Time: December to March (peak winter), April (spring snow)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (200 km, 7-8 hours drive)
- Drive through Mussoorie, Purola, and Mori
- Reach Sankri village, acclimatization day
- Explore local Garhwali culture
Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (4 km, 4-5 hours trek)
- Altitude gain: 6,400 ft to 9,100 ft
- Trek through dense pine and maple forests
- Camp beside the frozen lake (in winter)
- Witness spectacular sunset views
Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (4 km, 3-4 hours)
- Gentle ascent to 11,250 ft
- Walk along oak-forested ridges
- Pass shepherd huts in meadows
- First glimpses of major peaks: Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak
Day 4: Base Camp to Kedarkantha Summit to Hargaon (6 km, 7-8 hours)
- Summit Push: Start at 3-4 AM for sunrise
- Steep final ascent through snow
- 360-degree summit views: Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Gangotri ranges
- Watch sunrise paint mountains golden
- Descend to Hargaon campsite
Day 5: Hargaon to Sankri (6 km, 4 hours)
- Descend through forests and meadows
- Drive back to Dehradun
Key Highlights
- Consistent Snow: December-March guarantees snow throughout the trek
- Summit Experience: True peak climbing feeling, not just a high point
- Juda Ka Talab: Frozen lake in winter, pristine camping spot
- 360° Views: See Himalayan giants from all directions at summit
- Cultural Immersion: Pass through traditional Garhwali villages
- Well-Established Route: Clear trails, good infrastructure, experienced guides
- Sunrise at Summit: Golden hour views are legendary
What Makes It Special
Kedarkantha has earned its reputation as the “Queen of Winter Treks” for delivering on every promise. Every day brings new scenery – forests, meadows, frozen lakes, and finally the exhilarating summit. The snow coverage is reliable, the gradient manageable, and the views consistently spectacular. It’s the perfect introduction to winter trekking and summit climbing.
Difficulty Factors
- Daily Distances: 4-6 km per day (manageable)
- Altitude Gain: Gradual over 3 days (good for acclimatization)
- Summit Day: Steepest section, can be challenging in deep snow
- Weather: Can be harsh in December-January (temperatures drop to -15°C)
- Snow Walking: Requires proper technique and micro-spikes
- Overall: Moderate difficulty but achievable for fit beginners
Best Season Breakdown
- December-January: Peak winter, heavy snow, coldest temperatures (-15°C nights)
- February: Best month – ample snow, slightly warmer, clear skies
- March: Late winter, lesser snow at lower camps, still good coverage at summit
- April: Spring trek, blooming rhododendrons, patchy snow remains
- May-June: No snow, green meadows, warmer weather, less popular
Who Should Do This Trek
- First-time winter trekkers wanting a complete experience
- Beginners with good fitness who can jog 5 km in 35 minutes
- Groups and families (children above 12 years with good fitness)
- Anyone seeking a proper summit experience without extreme difficulty
- Photography enthusiasts (sunrise, snow landscapes, mountain views)
Cost & Logistics
- Trek Cost: ₹8,000-₹20,000 depending on operator and season
- Inclusions: Usually meals, camping gear, guides, permits
- Accessibility: Dehradun well-connected by air, rail, road
- Group Size: Can accommodate large groups
- Permits: Handled by operators
2. Brahmatal Trek: The Mythological Beauty
Overview
Named after Lord Brahma who is believed to have meditated here, Brahmatal is a winter wonderland that rivals Kedarkantha but remains slightly less crowded. The trek’s standout feature is the jaw-dropping close-up views of Mt. Trishul (7,120m) that seem to follow you throughout the journey, along with two stunning alpine lakes – Bekaltal and Brahmatal.
Trek Profile
- Location: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand
- Distance: 22-30 kilometers (varies by route)
- Duration: 6-7 days (including travel)
- Maximum Altitude: 12,250 feet (3,734 meters) at Brahmatal Top
- Difficulty Level: Easy-Moderate (gentler than Kedarkantha)
- Base Camp: Lohajung (7,550 ft)
- Best Time: December to March (winter), April-June (summer)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun/Rishikesh to Lohajung (210-300 km, 10-12 hours)
- Scenic drive through Uttarakhand valleys
- Overnight at Lohajung guesthouse
Day 2: Lohajung to Bekaltal (4.5 km, 5-6 hours)
- First Challenge: Steep ascent gaining 1,630 feet
- Trek through rhododendron and oak forests
- Reach Bekaltal Lake (9,180 ft)
- Camp in forest clearing beside lake
Day 3: Bekaltal to Tilandi/Brahmatal (7 km, 4-5 hours)
- Gradual climb through meadows
- Ridge opens to reveal Mt. Trishul massif – spectacular!
- Also visible: Mt. Nanda Ghunti (6,309m)
- Camp at Tilandi meadow (10,495 ft) – known for strong winds
Day 4: Tilandi to Jhandi Top/Brahmatal Top to Brahmatal Lake (5-6 km, 6-7 hours)
- Summit Day: Steep ridge climb to Jhandi Top (12,250 ft)
- 360-degree views: Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Chaukhamba, Neelkanth
- Descend to Brahmatal Lake (10,190 ft) – often frozen in winter
- Camp near the sacred lake
Day 5: Brahmatal to Daldum/Lohajung (12 km, 6-7 hours)
- Descend through forests
- Return to Lohajung
Day 6: Lohajung to Dehradun/Rishikesh
- Long drive back
Key Highlights
- Mt. Trishul Views: Towering trident-shaped peak dominates the skyline from Day 2 onwards
- Two Alpine Lakes: Bekaltal and Brahmatal, both frozen in winter
- Brahmatal Top: Higher than Kedarkantha summit, incredible panoramic views
- Forest Trekking: Over 60% of trek through beautiful rhododendron/oak forests (reduces AMS risk)
- Mythological Significance: Lord Brahma’s meditation site adds spiritual dimension
- Ridge Walks: Thrilling exposed ridges with mountain views on both sides
- Less Crowded: Fewer trekkers than Kedarkantha despite similar beauty
What Makes It Special
Brahmatal offers what many consider the best mountain views in the Garhwal Himalayas. The sight of Mt. Trishul from Tilandi ridge is simply awe-inspiring – it feels like you could reach out and touch this 7,000m+ giant. The trek is more spread out than Kedarkantha, giving better acclimatization, and the longer forest sections provide protection from harsh weather. Many trekkers who’ve done both prefer Brahmatal for its more intimate, less commercial feel.
Difficulty Factors
- Initial Ascent: Day 2 Lohajung to Bekaltal is steepest section (1,630 ft gain)
- Summit Ridge: Steep and icy in winter, requires careful navigation
- Daily Distances: Longer than Kedarkantha (5-7 km days)
- Altitude Profile: Gentler overall gradient, better acclimatization
- Weather: Tilandi campsite notoriously windy
- Snow Conditions: Can be knee-deep in winter
- Overall: Easier than Kedarkantha despite longer distance
Best Season Breakdown
- December-February: Peak winter, heavy snow, frozen lakes, best for snow lovers
- March-April: Spring transition, rhododendrons bloom, less snow, warmer
- May-June: Summer trek, no snow, lush green meadows, clear skies
- September-November: Post-monsoon, crisp air, clear views, golden forests
Who Should Do This Trek
- Beginners who can jog 3-4 km in 25-30 minutes
- Those seeking less crowded alternative to Kedarkantha
- Mountain photography enthusiasts (Mt. Trishul views unbeatable)
- Trekkers wanting longer forest walks for wildlife spotting
- Anyone interested in mythological/spiritual significance
- Families with children (ages 9+ with good fitness)
Cost & Logistics
- Trek Cost: ₹6,000-₹11,000 (generally cheaper than Kedarkantha)
- Accessibility: Lohajung further from Dehradun than Sankri
- Permits: Easier to obtain than some other treks
- Infrastructure: Good but slightly less developed than Kedarkantha
3. Gulabi Kantha Trek: The Pink Meadow Paradise
Overview
Gulabi Kantha, translating to “Pink Bowl” or “Pink Mountain,” is one of Uttarakhand’s hidden gems that’s rapidly gaining popularity among trekkers seeking offbeat experiences. Located in the Yamunotri Valley, this trek showcases vast alpine meadows that burst into pink and purple wildflowers during spring and summer, earning it its colorful name. The 360-degree summit views rival any popular trek, but without the crowds.
Trek Profile
- Location: Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand (Yamunotri Valley)
- Distance: 24-26 kilometers total
- Duration: 5 days (including travel)
- Maximum Altitude: 12,000-12,431 feet (3,656-3,789 meters)
- Difficulty Level: Easy-Moderate
- Base Camp: Hanuman Chatti (7,000 ft) – also gateway to Yamunotri Dham
- Best Time: May-June (wildflowers), September-October (clear skies), December-February (winter snow)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Barkot to Hanuman Chatti (162-175 km, 7-8 hours)
- Drive via Mussoorie, Damta, Naugaon, Lakhamandal
- Reach Hanuman Chatti (confluence of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna River)
- Acclimatization at base camp
Day 2: Hanuman Chatti to Kandola/Channi Camp (8-10 km, 6-7 hours)
- Trek through Nishni Village (authentic Garhwali culture)
- Dense forests of oak, pine, deodar trees
- Altitude gain to 9,100 ft
- Camp in highland meadows
Day 3: Kandola to Seema Thatch (4-5 km, 5-6 hours)
- Gradual ascent through forests and meadows
- Open up to sub-alpine meadows with wildflowers (May-June)
- Reach Seema Thatch (10,700-11,000 ft)
- Spectacular sunset – sky erupts in orange, pink, purple hues
Day 4: Seema Thatch to Gulabi Kantha Summit and back (8 km round trip, 6-8 hours)
- Early morning summit push
- Steep but short final ascent
- 360-degree panoramic views: Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Black Peak (Kalanag), Srikanth, Chaukhamba, Shivalik ranges
- Packed lunch at summit
- Return to Seema Thatch or descend to Kandola
Day 5: Camp to Hanuman Chatti to Dehradun
- Descend through forests
- Drive back to Dehradun (7-8 hours)
Key Highlights
- Wildflower Explosion: Pink and purple rhododendrons, alpine flowers carpet meadows (May-June)
- Offbeat Experience: Very few trekkers, pristine trail, genuine solitude
- 360° Summit Views: See all major Garhwal peaks from one vantage point
- Highland Meadows: Vast, endless grasslands with grazing cattle and shepherds
- Seema Thatch Sunset: One of the most beautiful sunset spots in Uttarakhand
- Cultural Encounters: Gujjar and Bakarwal shepherd communities
- Proximity to Dodital: Can be combined with Dodital trek for extended trip
- Winter Option: Also excellent for winter trekking with snow coverage
What Makes It Special
Gulabi Kantha feels like discovering a secret that few know about. While Kedarkantha and Brahmatal draw hundreds of trekkers weekly, you might encounter just a handful on Gulabi Kantha. The meadows are genuinely massive – you can walk for hours across rolling grasslands. The “pink bowl” designation becomes clear in late spring when rhododendron blooms transform the landscape. It’s a photographer’s paradise with diverse subjects: wildflowers, shepherds with livestock, dramatic mountain backdrops, and stunning sunrises/sunsets.
Difficulty Factors
- Gradual Terrain: Most of trek is gentle to moderate gradient
- Summit Day Challenge: Steepest section but shorter than other treks
- Altitude Manageable: Lower than Kedarkantha/Brahmatal by 200-500 ft
- Trail Conditions: Well-marked, easy to follow
- Weather Variables: Yamunotri Valley can be unpredictable
- Overall: One of the easier moderate treks
Best Season Breakdown
- May-June (Spring/Summer): BEST for wildflowers, blooming rhododendrons, warm days, clear skies
- July-August (Monsoon): Avoid – slippery trails, heavy rains, leeches
- September-October (Autumn): Clear post-monsoon skies, crisp air, golden-brown meadows, excellent visibility
- December-February (Winter): Snow-covered wonderland, knee-deep snow, winter trekking experience
- March-April: Transition period, patchy snow, early flowers
Who Should Do This Trek
- Beginners seeking offbeat, uncrowded trails
- Nature photographers (wildflowers, landscapes, cultural subjects)
- Those who prefer peace and solitude over established tourist trails
- Families looking for moderate difficulty with big rewards
- Trekkers combining with Yamunotri Dham pilgrimage (14 km away)
- Anyone wanting a “complete” experience without Kedarkantha crowds
Cost & Logistics
- Trek Cost: ₹10,000-₹14,000 (mid-range pricing)
- Accessibility: Hanuman Chatti accessible by road from Dehradun/Barkot
- Permits: Easier to obtain, less regulated
- Fewer Operators: Not all companies offer this trek
- DIY Possible: Can be done independently with local guides
Nearby Extensions
- Yamunotri Dham: 14 km from Hanuman Chatti (can add pilgrimage)
- Dodital Trek: Same region, can combine for longer expedition
- Bali Pass: Advanced trekkers can extend to this challenging pass
4. Patalsu Peak Trek: The Beginner’s Summit
Overview
Patalsu Peak, nestled in the Kullu Valley near Manali, holds a special place as one of the most accessible summit treks in Himachal Pradesh. Starting from the adventure hub of Solang Valley, this relatively short trek packs a powerful punch – offering genuine summit climbing experience, spectacular views of 6,000m+ peaks, and the thrill of reaching 13,990 feet, all within just 3-4 days.
Trek Profile
- Location: Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh (near Manali)
- Distance: 16-18 kilometers total
- Duration: 3-4 days
- Maximum Altitude: 13,990 feet (4,250 meters) at Patalsu Peak
- Difficulty Level: Moderate (highest peak among these five treks)
- Base Camp: Solang Valley (7,914 ft)
- Best Time: April-June (summer), September-October (autumn), December-March (winter for experienced)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Manali, Drive to Solang Valley
- Reach Manali, meet team
- 13 km drive to Solang Valley (can take 1-3 hours depending on season)
- Acclimatization, explore Solang
- Stay at base camp or trek 2-3 km to initial campsite
- Altitude: 7,914 ft to ~10,000 ft
Day 2: Solang to Shagadugh/Patalsu Base Camp (6 km, 5-6 hours)
- Trek through mixed forests of oak, pine, deodar
- Pass through lush alpine meadows
- Gradual to moderate ascent
- Reach Shagadugh clearing (10,700-11,000 ft)
- 180-degree mountain views appear – Hanuman Tibba, Friendship Peak
- Camp at base camp
Day 3: Base Camp to Patalsu Peak Summit and back (6 km, 8-10 hours)
- Early morning start (3-4 AM) for summit push
- Steep ascent through alpine terrain
- Rocky sections, narrow ridges, moraines – most challenging part
- No water sources – carry 2 liters
- Reach summit around noon
- 360° views: Hanuman Tibba, Friendship Peak, Manali Peak, Shitidhar, Beas Kund peaks, Rohtang Pass, Deo Tibba, Lahaul-Spiti valleys
- Return to base camp or descend to Solang (12 km if descending same day)
Day 4: Base Camp to Solang to Manali (if not descended previous day)
- 6 km descent through forests
- 1 hour drive to Manali
- Trip ends by afternoon/evening
Key Highlights
- Highest Altitude: Among these five treks, Patalsu reaches the highest point (13,990 ft)
- True Summit Experience: Steep final push, rocky terrain, narrow ridges – feels like real mountaineering
- Spectacular Peak Views: Close-ups of Hanuman Tibba (5,982m), Friendship Peak (5,289m)
- Shortest Duration: Can be completed in just 2-3 days of trekking
- Solang Valley: Adventure capital with paragliding, zorbing, skiing
- Birding Opportunities: Spot Himalayan Monals, Khaleej pheasants
- Manali Accessibility: Easy to reach, well-developed infrastructure
- Year-Round Trek: Possible in all seasons with proper preparation
What Makes It Special
Patalsu is the perfect “step up” trek for those who want more challenge than basic treks but aren’t ready for technical climbing. The summit day is genuinely demanding – steep terrain, altitude, and exposure test your limits. However, the short duration means you can attempt a serious peak even with limited time off work. The proximity to Manali is both convenient and enabling – you can easily extend your trip to explore Himachal’s attractions. For mountaineering aspirants, Patalsu serves as excellent training for harder peaks like Friendship Peak or Shitidhar.
Difficulty Factors
- Altitude: Highest among these five treks (acclimatization crucial)
- Summit Push: Long, steep, physically demanding (6-8 hours up and down)
- Rocky Terrain: Loose boulders, narrow ridges, exposed sections
- Rapid Altitude Gain: 6,000 feet in just 2 days
- No Water Sources: Must carry all water on summit day
- Weather Exposure: Final sections very exposed to wind and elements
- Overall: Moderate+ difficulty, requires good fitness and some experience
Best Season Breakdown
- April-June (Summer): Best for beginners, pleasant weather (10-25°C days), clear skies, no snow complications, excellent visibility
- July-August (Monsoon): AVOID – dangerous due to rain, landslides, slippery trails
- September-October (Autumn): Clear post-monsoon skies, crisp air, best photography conditions, comfortable temperatures
- November: Transition to winter, some snow appears
- December-March (Winter): Advanced trekkers only, heavy snow, extreme cold (-2 to -10°C), requires winter gear and experience
Who Should Do This Trek
- Beginners with excellent fitness wanting a challenge
- Experienced trekkers seeking quick weekend summit adventure
- Those with limited time (just 3-4 days needed)
- Aspiring mountaineers preparing for technical peaks
- Fitness enthusiasts wanting to test their limits
- Manali visitors looking to add trekking to their itinerary
- Anyone who can jog/run 5+ km comfortably
Cost & Logistics
- Trek Cost: ₹7,000-₹12,000 (relatively affordable)
- Accessibility: Manali extremely well-connected (flights, buses, taxis)
- Permits: Minimal bureaucracy
- Equipment Rental: Available in Manali
- Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun): 52 km from Manali
- Bhuntar Airport: 52 km from Manali (closer option)
Extensions & Combinations
- Manali Sightseeing: Hadimba Temple, Old Manali, Vashisht hot springs
- Solang Activities: Paragliding, zorbing, cable car, skiing (winter)
- Rohtang Pass: Day trip if roads open
- Longer Treks: Can combine with Hampta Pass or Beas Kund
5. Nag Tibba Trek: The Perfect Weekend Escape
Overview
Nag Tibba, meaning “Serpent’s Peak,” holds the distinction of being the best weekend trek in North India. At just 2-3 days from Dehradun, it offers the complete Himalayan trekking experience – forests, meadows, ridge walks, summit climb, and 360-degree mountain views – all in the shortest possible timeframe. Named after the Nag Devta (Serpent God) temple at the summit, this sacred peak in the lower Garhwal Himalayas is perfect for first-timers, working professionals, and anyone seeking a quick mountain fix.
Trek Profile
- Location: Tehri Garhwal District, Uttarakhand (near Mussoorie)
- Distance: 15-16 kilometers total
- Duration: 2-3 days (quickest of all five treks)
- Maximum Altitude: 9,915 feet (3,022 meters) – lowest summit of these five
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate (easiest of these five)
- Base Camp: Pantwari Village (4,652 ft)
- Best Time: Year-round (December-March for snow, April-June for pleasant weather)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Pantwari to Khatiyan Base Camp (90 km drive + 4 km trek)
- 6:30 AM pickup from Dehradun
- 4-5 hour drive via Mussoorie, Kempty Falls, Nainbagh
- Reach Pantwari village (4,652 ft)
- Begin 2-3 hour trek through forests
- Reach Khatiyan/Goat Village base camp (7,500 ft)
- Evening campfire, stargazing
Day 2: Base Camp to Nag Tibba Summit to Base Camp (9 km round trip, 8-10 hours)
- Early morning start
- 3-4 hour ascent through oak and rhododendron forests
- Pass Nag Devta Temple (locals worship Snake God for cattle protection)
- Steep final push to summit ridge
- Nag Tibba Summit (9,915 ft): 360° views of Bandarpoonch, Kedarnath, Swargarohini, Gangotri range, Black Peak, Kala Nag
- Packed lunch at summit
- Descend back to base camp (3-4 hours)
- OR continue descent to Pantwari same day
Day 3: Base Camp to Pantwari to Dehradun (if camped overnight)
- 2-3 hour descent to Pantwari
- 4-5 hour drive back to Dehradun
- Reach by evening
Key Highlights
- Shortest Trek: Complete in just one weekend (Friday night to Sunday evening)
- Lowest Altitude: 9,915 ft means minimal altitude sickness risk
- Nag Devta Temple: Sacred site with mythological significance
- 360° Summit Views: See entire Garhwal range despite lower altitude
- Year-Round Access: One of the few treks open in all seasons
- Dense Forests: Walk through beautiful oak, rhododendron, deodar forests
- Ridge Walk: Exciting exposed ridge section before summit
- Cultural Immersion: Interact with local villagers, shepherds
- Proximity to Mussoorie: Can combine with hill station visit
- Budget-Friendly: Most affordable of these five treks
- Mentioned in “Seven Years in Tibet”: Historical significance
What Makes It Special
Nag Tibba is the ultimate “gateway trek” that introduces beginners to Himalayan trekking without overwhelming them. Despite being the shortest and lowest, it doesn’t feel like a compromise – you get genuine summit experience, spectacular views, camping under stars, and the full mountain immersion. For Delhi/NCR residents, it’s the perfect Friday evening departure, weekend adventure, Sunday evening return schedule. The lower altitude makes it safer for children, seniors, and those with altitude concerns. Many trekkers use Nag Tibba as their “tester” trek before attempting longer expeditions.
Difficulty Factors
- Lowest Altitude: 9,915 ft minimizes AMS risk
- Moderate Gradient: Steepest section is final summit push
- Short Daily Distances: 4-5 km per day maximum
- Summit Day Long: 8-10 hours can be tiring but distance is manageable
- Well-Marked Trail: Easy navigation, hard to get lost
- Accessible: Close to civilization, easy exit if needed
- Overall: Easiest of these five treks, perfect for absolute beginners
Best Season Breakdown
- December-March (Winter): BEST for snow trekking, temperatures -7°C to 10°C, trail covered in snow, winter wonderland experience
- April-June (Summer): Pleasant weather (5-20°C), no snow, lush green forests, blooming rhododendrons, ideal for beginners
- July-September (Monsoon): Possible but not ideal, trails slippery, leeches, avoid if possible
- October-November (Autumn): Clear skies, excellent visibility, comfortable temperatures, golden forests
- Year-Round: One of the few treks that works in all seasons (with appropriate gear)
Who Should Do This Trek
- Absolute beginners with no prior trekking experience
- Working professionals with limited vacation time
- Families with children (8+ years with reasonable fitness)
- School groups for educational trips
- Senior citizens with good health
- Delhi/NCR residents seeking weekend escapes
- Anyone testing if they enjoy trekking before committing to longer trips
- Those building fitness for harder treks later
Cost & Logistics
- Trek Cost: ₹1,300-₹7,000 (cheapest of all five treks)
- Accessibility: Extremely easy – just 90 km from Dehradun
- Permits: Minimal requirements, easy to arrange
- DIY Friendly: Many do it independently with local guides
- Infrastructure: Basic but adequate
- Mobile Network: Limited at camps, available in Pantwari
- Last ATM: Nainbagh (en route to Pantwari)
Why It’s Called “Serpent’s Peak”
According to local mythology, Nag Tibba is the abode of Nag Devta (Serpent God). Villagers from surrounding areas make pilgrimages to the summit temple, offering prayers for protection of their livestock against snake bites. The trek passes through this culturally significant region where Hindu traditions remain strong. Interacting with local villagers offers insights into Garhwali culture and their reverence for nature and deities.



