Best Monsoon Treks in Uttarakhand (With Safety Precautions)
As soon as the rain hits Uttarakhand, the mountains are turned into a heaven of misty valleys, lush green grassy meadows, beautiful waterfalls & flowers blooming in every colour. From trekking alpine meadows such as Dayara Bugyal to being a witness to witnessing a sea of wildflowers in the Valley of Flowers, monsoon treks in Uttarakhand are nothing less than magical.
But monsoon trekking comes with its drawbacks too. Wet tracks, flooded rivers, landslide zones & unstable clouds require one to be well-equipped. But with the necessary equipment like water shoes, rain gear, trekking poles & local guidance, these treks become safe & worth the experience.
So with that being said, here are some of the best trekking destinations in Uttarakhand during monsoon that you should definitely go on.
Valley of Flowers Trek
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valley of Flowers is the crown jewel when it comes to monsoon treks. From July to September, the whole valley comes alive with countless types of wildflowers & it stands as one of India’s most magical treks.
- Difficulty level is easy to moderate
- Best time to visit is from July to early September
- Use waterproof trekking shoes to avoid slipping
- Take care against leeches on wet patches
- Arrange local guides to learn about the present weather & track conditions
Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek becomes mist-dipped during monsoon with rhododendron-lined paths & thundering waterfalls. The trails are accessible, although they are very wet and slippery during the rainy season & landslides can slow down access to the road.
- Difficulty level is moderate
- Best time to visit is from July to September
- Start trekking early morning before clouds become a hindrance
- Bring rain jacket & waterproof backpack covers
- Use certified guides or porters with a high level of knowledge about the terrain
- Carefully monitor landslide prone road sections on the way
Dayara Bugyal Trek
Dayara Bugyal walk is one of the finest trekking places in Uttarakhand during monsoon at almost 3,400 meters alpine plateau offering lush green meadows & cloud-drifting views.
- Difficulty level is easy to moderate
- Best time to visit is from July to August
- Use trekking poles to balance on mushy terrain
- Start early to avoid unexpected rain showers in the afternoon
- Take guidance from forest rangers about safe trails
- Carry energy bars & lightweight rain gear
Har Ki Dun Trek
Mostly called the “Valley of Gods,” Har Ki Dun is a valley in dense woods & old villages. During the monsoon, mist rolls over pine forests & the rivers overflow with fresh rains. It’s also one of the most culturally rich treks where you pass by traditional wooden homes & agricultural fields.
- Difficulty level is moderate to difficult
- Best time to visit is from July to September
- Take precautions against river crossings during rain
- Carry waterproof shoes for safety
- Avoid night trekking due to rising water levels
- Ensure that the guides are certified & have communication equipment
Bhrigu Lake Trek
Even though generally associated with Himachal, Bhrigu Lake is also accessible from the Uttarakhand side close to Gulaba. The lake is surrounded by misty Himalayan peaks & thus it happens to be a peaceful & spiritual trekking destination in monsoon.
- Difficulty level is moderate
- Best time to visit is from July to August
- Carry waterproof layers since surprise rains are frequent
- Always venture out in the morning prior to weather turning severe
- Avail local help for the purpose of guidance through foggy parts
- Avoid camping near shaky slopes
Sar Pass Trek
Sar Pass is a trek of contrasts including forest so thick & studded with wildflowers, meadow so vibrant & studded with wildflowers & high-altitude mountain scenery. In the monsoon, the trek is lovely but slippery with soggy slopes & swollen streams.
- Difficulty level is moderate to difficult
- Best time to visit is from July to early September
- Carry waterproof shoes & trekking poles
- Allow light rain to clear before fording streams
- Travel with guides familiar to the terrain
- Always carry a first-aid kit & dry snacks with you
Hemkund Sahib Trek
The hike to Hemkund Sahib starts in Ghangaria & ascends steeply above the Valley of Flowers to the alpine area where oxygen is thin. Brahma Kamal flowers bloom during the Monsoon; however, there can be storms & sudden hailstorms.
- Difficulty level is moderate to difficult
- Best time to visit is from July to September
- Go slow to adjust at higher altitudes
- Stay hydrated to avoid fatigue
- Always use marked trails
- Avoid hiking in cloudbursts or hailstorms
Gidara Bugyal Trek
Less crowded but no less beautiful, Gidara Bugyal offers grasslands with views of Gangotri peaks. During monsoon, knee-high grass carpets the trails & makes them soft but marshy, testing your endurance.
- Difficulty level is moderate
- Best time to visit is early monsoon (June to July)
- Wear water-proof & high-grip shoes
- Environmental permits must be ready in advance
- Avoid night trekking
- Frequent halts at the meadows to enjoy them
Roopkund Trek
Roopkund trek ascends the alpine meadows on the way to the mythical skeleton lake. In the post-August monsoon, rhododendron forests are blushed & fog waves on ridges. However, residual rain leads to rockfalls & erosion of stream banks.
- Difficulty level is difficult
- Best time to visit is from late August to September
- Trek at all times with a seasoned local guide
- Wear helmets on rockfall stretches
- Cross streams early morning
- Check present weather before proceeding
Nag Tibba Trek
In July, the forests bloom & the low-altitude Nag Tibba trek becomes green. This is that rainy season Uttarakhand trek that shows foggy Bandarpoonch views but the trails are slushy & leech clouds are dangerous
- Difficulty level is easy
- Best time to visit is from July to September
- Start the trek early to miss heavy rains in the afternoons
- Carry quick-drying clothes for comfort
- Expect slushy paths & patches with leeches
- Don’t trek along ridges in thunderstorms
Final Thoughts
The Uttarakhand treks for rainy season are an unforgettable combination of adventure & beauty.
If you’re ready to explore these monsoon treks in Uttarakhand safely then connect with Himalaya Tribe for guided experiences that make your journey both adventurous & secure.