Go Trekking This Monsoon At 5 Picturesque Indian Destinations & Locales

Who says you can't go out in the rain? Like we embrace every other season with its own essence and activities, vacations in the summer, campires in the winter, monsoon has its own aesthetic that we can subscribe to Imagine yourself enveloped in forest. Raindrops pitter-patter on the lush canopy overhead, creating a symphony of sound that blends with the fragrance of petrichor. Sunlight filters through the leaves, dappling the forest floor in a mosaic of light and shadow. This is the magic of the monsoon in India, a time when the mountains come alive with freshness and adventure beckons the intrepid trekker. Here are some of the best monsoon treks you can go for this season:

Our journey begins in the Himalayas, where the Valley of Flowers unfolds like a dream. Nestled at an altitude of 4,500 meters in Uttarakhand, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts over 100 varieties of wildflowers that bloom in a riot of colours from July to October. Imagine trekking through meadows ablaze with the sapphire blue of the Himalayan poppy, the sunshine yellow of the Brahma Kamal, and the fiery red of the spider lily. Breathe in the crisp mountain air, invigorated by the monsoon showers, as you lose yourself in this paradise.

For those seeking a challenge in South India, Karnataka's Western Ghats offer the thrilling Kumara Parvatha Trek. This 22-kilometer odyssey, spanning over two days, takes you through the ancient Kukke Subrahmanya temple and the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. Dense forests teeming with life give way to expansive grasslands, and a cascading waterfall adds a touch of serenity to the landscape. The monsoon transforms this trek, turning dry trails into pathways adorned with wildflowers. Keep your eyes peeled for unique flora and fauna, making this a true naturalist's delight.

Moving north, we arrive at the breathtaking Markha Valley in Hemis National Park, Ladakh. This "largest and most beautiful valley" in the region, as the name suggests, offers a spectacular contrast of arid and verdant landscapes. The trek, starting from Leh, allows you to immerse yourself in the rich Buddhist culture while traversing diverse terrains. During the monsoon, the arid landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation. Witness the stark beauty of the Indus and Markha regions come alive with verdant meadows as you cross through the farming zone of Markha Village. The trail rewards you with awe-inspiring vistas of the K2 ranges, Stok Kangri, and Kang Yatse peaks, ensuring a visually stunning experience throughout the trek.

For a historical and adventurous escapade, head towards Sinhagad near Pune. This fort trek, part of the significant trio including Rajgad and Torna, holds immense historical significance. The trail itself presents a fascinating dichotomy - a gentle ascent on a tar road from Donje Gaon, followed by a challenging but rewarding climb to the fort's summit. As you conquer the slopes, the captivating landscapes and the whispers of past battles come alive, creating an unforgettable experience.

Finally, we venture down south to Kerala, where Idukki with its captivating Meesapulimala trek. This 8-kilometer path, starting from the Rhodo Valley accessible by jeep, leads you to the second-highest peak in the Western Ghats. The real magic unfolds during the rare blooming of the Neelakurinji flowers, a breathtaking spectacle that occurs only once every twelve years. The next day, embark on a trek through a path adorned with rhododendron trees, a unique feature reminiscent of the Himalayas. The entire trek, culminating in a descent through Kerala's famed tea gardens, offers a unique blend of adventure and serenity.

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