12 Best Adventure Weekend Treks from Delhi

As the weekends approach, ideas of short breaks from our hectic routines start winding through our minds. Most obvious ideas which come to our minds are of spending a relaxed weekend at a nearby resort or planning a short day outing or picnic. What if some adventure fun is added to your plans of family outings this weekend? How about an idea of planning for a weekend trek at a nearby place? I am sure this all sounds interesting. Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand near Delhi, offer a plethora of trekking options for people of all age groups. With a number of treks of easy and moderate grades, you can spend an enthralling and exciting weekend with your family. Along with exhilarating trekking adventure, you can also indulge in amazing experience of camping and bonfire.

Listed below are some treasured trekking options near Delhi:

Nag Tibba Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Time for Trek: Round the year except July and August
Altitude: 10,000 ft.
How to Reach: Reach Dehradun by an interstate or Volvo bus or train from Delhi. From Dehradun you can choose share buses, share taxi or private cab to Mussoorie, hire a jeep or taxi to Pantwari or Devalsari.

Considered to be one of the best weekend treks from Delhi, the ‘Nag Tibba Trek’ near Mussoorie, is a trekker’s delight. Situated at almost 10000 ft. above sea level, ‘Nag Tibba’ or the ‘Serpent’s Peak’ is the highest peak in the Nagtibba range of the Garhwal Himalayas. The trek takes you through beautiful forests of oak and deodars. As you reach the Nag Tibba peak, you are welcomed with breath-taking views of the ‘Bandarpunch Peak’, ‘Kalanag Peak’, ‘Swargarohini Peak’, ‘Kedarnath Peak’ and ‘Gangotri’ group of peaks.

The Nag Tibba summit can be reached mainly via 2 routes. The first one is the shortest and starts from the Pantwari village, located at a distance of 85 km. from Dehradun. Due to the complexity of the route, it is recommended to hire a guide for this route. As you start from Pantwari, reach the base of the Nag Tibba peak in the late afternoon; spend the night in the camp and resume your journey to the peak next morning. The overnight camping at the base of the Nag Tibba peak requires permission from forest officials at Mussoorie.

The second route starts from the tiny hamlet of Devalsari, located at a distance of 45km. from Mussoorie. The Nag Tibba peak can be reached by travelling a distance of around 10 km. Stunning views of ‘Pir Panjal range’, ‘Dhauladhar ranges’ and ‘Doon valley’ can be witnessed as you walk through the winding trails from Devalsari to Nag Tibba. An overnight stay can be arranged either in the forest guesthouse or in a camp, both of which requires permissions from the forest office in Mussoorie.

Chopta Chandrashila Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Time for Trek: Round the year except July and August
Altitude: 13,415 ft.
How to Reach: Reach Haridwar/Rishikesh by an interstate or Volvo bus or train from Delhi. From Haridwar/Rishikesh you can choose share buses, share taxi or private cab to Chopta.

The ‘Chopta Chandrashila Trek’ is another great weekend trek from Delhi that leaves you refreshed and rejuvenated from your monotonous work life. The trek starts from small enchanting village of Chopta, located at a distance of around 450 km. from Delhi. Nestled in the lap of Himalayas in Uttarakhand, the magical charm of the Chopta village overflowing with pink and red flower of rhododendron, forest of deodar and oak trees, will leave you mesmerized for few minutes. As you begin your journey to the Chandrashila peak; the wilderness of the thick rhododendron forests, a fresh breeze of air, and scenic vistas along the trekking trails, make you feel revitalized and invigorated. After covering a distance of almost 3 km., your first stop is at the holy ‘Tungnath Temple’, one of the five Panch Kedar temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. After a short break at the temple, you can resume your journey to the Chandrashila summit. Once you reach the top, you are sure to be taken aback with the stunning and panoramic vistas of the ‘Nanda Devi Peak’, ‘Kedar Peak’, ‘Chaukhamba Peak’ and other beautiful peaks in the area around.

Dayara Bugyal Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Time for Trek: Round the year except July and August
Altitude: 12,000 ft.
How to Reach: Reach Haridwar/Rishikesh by an interstate or Volvo bus or train from Delhi. From Haridwar/Rishikesh you can choose share buses, share taxi or private cab to Uttarkashi/Barsu.

‘Dayara Bugyal’ is one of the most beautiful high altitude alpine meadows in India, surrounded by snow covered Garhwal Himalayan peaks of Bhagirathi, Bandarpunch, Gangotri, and Kala Nag. Owing to its mesmerizing scenic beauty, the meadow is visited by many trekkers and adventure buffs from all over India. Because of its close proximity to Delhi, the ‘Dayara Bugyal Trek’ makes for a perfect adventure weekend destination for people living in Delhi-NCR region. Barsu Village near Uttarkashi in Uttarakhand acts as the base camp for this trek. The scenic trekking trails take you through patches of dense forests of rhododendron trees and the serene ‘Barnala Tal’, finally ending at the vast expanse of lush green meadow of Dayara Bugyal. Camps can be set up at the ‘Barnala Meadows’, few metres short of ‘Barnala Tal’ or near the shepherd huts, a kilometre before the Dayara Bugyal. During summers, you can trek up to the ‘Bakaria Top’, the highest point of the region.

Owing to its powder laden slopes during winters, Dayara Bugyal is also frequented by many skiers from nearby places over weekends in winters.

Dodital Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Time for Trek: Round the year except July and August
Altitude: 13,600 ft.
How to Reach: Reach Haridwar/Rishikesh by an interstate or Volvo bus or train from Delhi. From Haridwar/Rishikesh you can choose share buses, share taxi or private cab to Uttarkashi/Sangamchatti.

Surrounded by the forests of oak, pine and rhododendron, ‘Dodital’ or the ‘Dodi Lake’ is one of the most beautiful high altitudes freshwater lakes nestled amidst rising Himalayan peaks in Uttarakhand. Serene and tranquil settings of the lake make it an ideal weekend escapade for adventure enthusiasts and trekkers from nearby areas. According to Indian mythology, Dodital also holds a great religious significance for being the birthplace of Lord Ganesha. A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is situated close to the lake and is visited by many pilgrims throughout the year.

Trek to Dodital starts from ‘Sangam Chatti’, a small hamlet situated near Uttarkashi. The trekking trails take you through forests of oak, deodar and rhododendron. On your way, witness the beauty of small sparkling streams, deep gorges, valleys and snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Sights of colourful mountain birds such as Himalayan Tree Pie, Himalayan Whistling Thrush, Himalayan Babbler, Red-Billed Blue Magpie and many more; will make your trek even more exciting and fun. As you reach the Dodital, soak yourself in the peaceful environment and pay a short visit to the Ganesha Temple. After taking a break at the Dodital, you can trek further 2500 ft. to the ‘Darwa Top’ from where the view of the Himalayan ranges is indescribable in words.

Bedni Bugyal Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Time for Trek: April to November
Altitude: 11,000 ft.
How to Reach: Reach Haridwar/Rishikesh by an interstate or Volvo bus or train from Delhi. From Haridwar/Rishikesh you can choose share buses, share taxi or private cab to Loharjung.

The ‘Bedni Bugyal’, situated in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is another enchanting high attitude alpine meadow in India. Lush green slopes surrounded by forests of conifers and Garhwal Himalayan peaks make this place one of the most visited adventure weekend destinations near Delhi. Trekking trails to Bedni Bugyal start from ‘Loharjung Pass’ and make their way through forests of oak and rhododendron up to the quaint little hamlet of Didina Village. You can take an overnight stay in the tents or home stays at this village. From Didina Village up to Ali Bugyal, the climb is steep and takes you through dense forest of oak trees. Vast expanse of lush green meadow awaits you at Ali Bugyal from where you descend towards the Bedni Bugyal. Magical charm of a completely different form of nature’s beauty at Bedni Bugyal with enchanting vistas of the ‘Trishul Parvat’ and ‘Nanda Ghunti’ in the Himalayas, will take your breath away in seconds. Reflection of snow-capped mountain peaks in the ‘Bedni Kund’ at Bedni Bugyal, just adds to the magical charm of this beautiful meadow.

Kedar Kantha Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Time for the Trek: Round the year except July & August
Altitude: 12,500 ft.
How to Reach: Reach Dehradun by an interstate or Volvo bus or train or flight from Delhi. From Dehradun you can choose share buses, share taxi or private cab to Sankri village.

Stunning views of vast blanket of white amidst tall pines, surrounded by snow-covered Himalayan peaks all around, make Kedarkantha, a perfect weekend getaway for nature enthusiasts and trekkers. The Kedarkantha Trek starts from ‘Sankri Village’ near Dehradun and takes you through dense forests of pine and sparkling streams, finally ending at a beautiful site of ‘Juda ka Talab’. Overnight camp stay near the talab encircled with tall pines, make your trekking adventure more thrilling and exciting. From the ‘Juda ka Talab’ up to the Kedarkantha base, you pass through scenic meadows adorned with shepherd log huts. Splendid views of the ‘Bandarpoonch’, ‘Swargarohini’, ‘Kalanag’ and ‘Ranglana’ peaks welcome you as you reach the Kedarkantha base site. Get the most memorable experience of your lifetime here as you spend a night in one of the tents laid out at vast carpets of snow with tall pines and starlit sky overlooking the arena. Make your way to the ‘Kedarkantha Summit’ early morning and embrace the unsurpassed beauty of nature as you reach your final destination.

Auli Gorson Bugyal Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Time for Trek: Round the year except July and August
Altitude: 10,000 ft.
How to Reach: Reach Haridwar/Rishikesh by an interstate or Volvo bus or train from Delhi. From Haridwar/Rishikesh you can choose share buses, share taxi or private cab to Joshimath. From Joshimath one can take taxi or ropeway to reach Auli.

Auli is famous as skier’s paradise in India owing to its powder laden slopes during the winter months. The place has its own charm even during summers when vast stretch of green carpeted meadow is blooming with colourful flowers. Undulated beauty and glorious views of towering peaks of ‘Nanda Devi’, ‘Mana Parvat’, ‘Haathi – Godhi Parvat’, ‘Neelkanth’ , ‘Trishul’ and ‘Dunagiri’, makes Auli one of the ideal holiday destinations for people living in nearby areas. What adds to the charm of this quaint hill station is the abundance of treks of varying degrees in the region and therefore, it has to its acclaim, the reputation of being one of the great weekend trekking destinations from Delhi. The most famous treks that start from Auli is the ‘Gorson Bugyal Trek’ that takes you to the befuddling meadow of Gorson situated in the lap of Garhwal Himalayas. The charisma of this trek gets double fold during winters. Easy and scenic trekking trails covered with conifers and oak trees, smell of fresh mountain air and stunning views of Himalayan ranges, leaves you refreshed and rejuvenated from your hectic routine.

Beas Kund Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Time for the Trek: May to October
Altitude: 12,000 ft.
How to Reach: Delhi to Manali by interstate or Volvo bus and then to Solang Nala by a jeep/taxi or local bus.

Beas Kund is a beautiful high altitude alpine lake located in the valley of Kullu-Manali in Himachal Pradesh. As per the mythological legends, sage Vyas used to take his daily bath in the waters of the Beas Kund and it is from here, the Beas River originates. Acclaimed to be one of the most beautiful short treks in Himachal Pradesh, the ‘Beas Kund Trek’ makes you pass through lush green meadows of the enchanting Solang valley and Bakarthach. Mesmerizing views of glaciers, small sparkling streams gushing down the mountains and snow-capped mountain peaks of ‘Indrasan’ and ‘Deo Tibba’ along the trekking route, are real treat to eyes. As you reach the Beas Kund, panoramic views of snow covered peaks of the ‘Pir Panjal’ range painted in different colours of nature, overlooking the pristine blue waters of the holy pond; seem to have you landed in a different world of serenity and tranquility.

Bhrigu Lake Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Time for Trek: May to October
Altitude: 14,000 ft.
How to Reach: Delhi to Manali by interstate bus or Volvo and then to Gulaba through a private taxi.

Another beautiful high altitude alpine lake, the ‘Bhrigu Lake’ is also nestled amidst towering Mountains of Kullu-Manali region in Himachal Pradesh. Located on the east of ‘Rohtang Pass’, the lake gets its name from sage Bhrig who, according to the mythological legends, meditated here. One of the popular weekend treks from Delhi, the ‘Bhrigu Lake Trek’ makes you leave all your worries behind, giving an opportunity to spend a peaceful weekend in the lap of the Mother Nature. The trek starts from a small village, Gulaba located enroute from Manali to Rohtang. As you walk along the trails adorned with trees of cedar, birch and silver oak, tremendous views of green pasture lands decked with vibrant alpine flowers, sparkling rivulets, conspicuous apple orchards, striking peaks of ‘Hanuman Tibba’ and ‘Seven Sisters Peaks’, seem to be embracing you with its open arms. Captivating views of snow-covered peaks of ‘Dhauladhar’ and ‘Pir Panjal’ ranges cradling the turquoise blue lake in their lap, leave you spell bound for few moments as you reach your destination. During winters, the sight is all the more mesmerizing when lake and the area around is blanketed in white and sunrays are painting this white canvas in different hues with every passing moment.

Hampta Circle Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Time for the Trek: May to October
Altitude: 14,000 ft.
How to Reach: Delhi to Manali by interstate bus or Volvo and then a short drive to Jagatsukh village.

Another popular weekend trek for Delhiites, the ‘Hampta Circle Trek’ starts from Jagatsukh Village close to Manali and takes you through dense forests of pine and fir, lush green alpine meadows, milky white streams and melting glaciers in a circular fashion, and hence, the name ‘Circle Trek’. Jaw-dropping views of Kullu Valley swarming with greenery, distant Dhauladhar ranges, fluffy clouds hovering on your head, and deep gorges captivate you with an unfathomable beauty and solitary charm as you walk through the picturesque Himalayan trails up to the ‘Hampta Pass’. The trek is an awesome breather for people seeking some calm and peace, away from the hustle-bustle of their busy lives.

Kareri Lake Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Time for Trek: April to November
Altitude: 9,700 ft.
How to Reach: Delhi to Dharamshala/Pathankot by interstate bus or Volvo or train and then to ‘Ghera Village’ by a local bus or shared jeep.

‘Kareri Lake’ is a small glacial lake snuggled between the Dhauladhar ranges in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. Tranquil settings of this quaint lake with scenic terrains, lures hundreds of trekkers and adventure seekers from different parts of India. Owing to its close proximity to Delhi, the ‘Kareri Lake Trek’, makes for the perfect weekend adventure trip from Delhi-NCR region. The trek usually starts from Ghera Village in Dharamshala and passes through secluded meadows, lush forests, whirly passes and gushing streams. Fascinating views of the shimmering lake amidst the green grassy meadows and hovering clouds, will make you feel as if nature has casted its magical spell and you would want to stay at this serene place all your life.

Triund Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Time for the Trek: March to May and September to December
Altitude: 9,500 ft.
How to Reach: Delhi to Dharamshala/Pathankot by interstate bus or Volvo or train and then to McLeodganj by a local bus or shared taxi.

Nestled in the laps of Dhauladhar ranges in Dharamshala providing unmatched views of the snow covered peaks, Triund is visited by many travel and adventure enthusiasts from across the country. Trekking up to Triund offers awe-inspiring and exhilarating panorama of nature’s craftsmanship. The trek starts from McLeodganj and takes you through quaint village of Dharamkot and forests of oak and deodar on the way. Panoramic views of the Dhauladhar ranges and valleys of Bhagsu, Kangra, and Dharamshala await you as you finally reach Triund.

Trekking not only satiates your adventurous thrust but also gets you closer to Mother Nature. Scenic landscapes and artistry of nature helps you forget all your worries, making you refreshed and rejuvenated to face upcoming challenges of work life. Hope the above list of trekking options, make you plan for a fun-filled and adventurous weekend trip with your family.