5 Offbeat Treks in India 2025

As trekkers, we set out on adventures to escape the noise of everyday life, seeking peace in the mountains. But too often, we end up following the most crowded trails, just because they are popular. This time, why not do things differently?

To make sure you truly experience the magic of trekking in India, I want you to explore hidden trails and the paths just as beautiful as the famous ones but without the rush of the crowds. These alternate routes take you through some of the most picturesque landscapes, giving you the same thrill of adventure and serenity that makes all the difference.

So, this time, step away from the usual and choose a newer path. Choose from these trails and set out on a journey where the only thing that follows you is the sound of the wind and your own footsteps.

Ranthan Kharak Trek

• Grade- Moderate
• Maximum Altitude- 12,900 ft.
• Best Time- Summer and Autumn

The first on the list is Ranthan Kharak Trek, a hidden gem among Uttarakhand’s treks. While most trekkers in the state head towards the well-known trails of the Garhwal region, they often miss out the beauty that Kumaon has to offer. Ranthan Kharak is one such offbeat trail, filled with more charm and wonder than one might expect. This moderately difficult trek, with a mix of gentle and steep sections, begins from the picturesque village of Gogina. As you walk through the route, you’ll pass through open clearings, locally known as "Kharaks," which give the trek its unique name. One of the most magical sights on this trek is the stunning bloom of Rhododendrons in spring and early summer. If you visit during this time, the landscape is transformed into a sea of red and pink as these beautiful flowers cover the trails. The Rhododendrons here bloom for a longer period due to the higher altitude, making the scenery even more special.

During autumn, the trek is a completely different charm. The forests, home to towering Himalayan birch, deodar, oak, pine, and maple trees, turn golden brown, creating a mesmerizing autumn wonderland. As you pass through quaint villages like Gogina and Namik, you’ll also get a glimpse into the rich Kumaoni culture and the simple, warm lifestyle of the locals. One of the most thrilling parts of the trek is the scenic ridge walk towards Ranthan top. With vast mountain views stretching across the horizon, you’ll be greeted by the majestic peaks of Nanda Devi, Sunanda Devi, Panchachuli, and many more.

If you’re looking for a trek that combines vibrant culture, Himalayan beauty and panoramic mountain views, Ranthan Kharak is a must-visit. It is without a doubt, one of the best treks in Uttarakhand!

Bhrigu Lake Trek

• Grade- Easy to Moderate
• Maximum Altitude- 13,700 ft.
• Best Time- Monsoon

The Bhrigu Lake Trek is a short yet spectacular 4-day adventure in Himachal Pradesh. This easy to moderate trek offers mesmerizing views of the Himalayan landscapes, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The biggest highlight of this trek is the stunning Bhrigu Lake, a high-altitude glacial lake with deep cultural significance. According to legend, the great sage Maharishi Bhrigu meditated here, making the lake sacred. The sight of Bhrigu Lake is nothing short of magical. For most of the year, it remains surrounded by snow, giving it an otherworldly charm. During the warmer months, the lake transforms into a crystal-clear pool, reflecting the sky, while lush green meadows surround it, creating a picture-perfect setting.

One of the most captivating features of this trek is the vast alpine meadows that stretch endlessly, covering the mountain slopes like a soft green carpet. As you walk through these rolling meadows, you’ll come across fresh water streams gushing through the valleys and tiny wildflowers adding delicate bursts of color to the landscape. The trek also offers mesmerizing views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges, their mighty peaks dominating the skyline. Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of Manali and Solang Valley, adding a touch of familiarity and cultural charm to your journey. The trail itself is a mix of rocky and snowy paths, making it an exciting and varied trek. Starting from Gulaba, just 22 km from Manali, this trek is easily accessible and doesn’t require long travel to reach the base camp. If you’re looking for a short yet rewarding Himalayan adventure, the Bhrigu Lake Trek is an experience you simply shouldn’t miss!

Chandrakhani Pass Trek

• Grade- Easy to Moderate
• Maximum Altitude- 12,100 ft.
• Best Time- Summer and Monsoon

The Chandrakhani Pass Trek is another beautiful trek in India that is known by very few people. This trek would be a perfect choice for you if you want to trek through lush forests, open green meadows and stunning mountains. During spring, the entire region comes alive with vibrant colors. The meadows turn a rich shade of green, sprinkled with tiny wildflowers in hues of yellow, purple, and pink. The trails wind through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendrons, filling the air with a refreshing scent. The rhododendron trees, with their striking red and pink blossoms, add to the beauty of the scenery, creating a picture-perfect trek.

This trek begins from the beautiful Rumsu, which is a charming village known for its traditional Himachali architecture. When you trek through the village, you would notice beautifully crafted wooden houses, offering a glimpse into the simple yet rich culture of the locals. The real magic happens when you reach Chandrakhani Pass itself. Standing at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The feeling of being above the world, with the endless sky and towering peaks around you, is truly a memorable one. The trek also offers beautiful views of the Pir Panjal, Parvati, and Dhauladhar ranges. As you walk for hours, the snow-capped peaks slowly reveal themselves, making the journey even more exciting. Some of the most famous peaks you can spot include Hanuman Tibba, Friendship Peak, and Deo Tibba, each adding to the grandeur of the landscape.

Chandrakhani Pass Trek is an experience filled with natural beauty, adventure, and cultural charm. If you are looking for a scenic escape, this trek in Himachal promises a journey you’ll never forget!

Surya Top Trek

• Grade- Moderate
• Maximum Altitude- 12,900 ft.
• Best Time- Summer and Autumn

If you want to trek through vast, open meadows like those in Dayara Bugyal, then the Surya Top Trek in Uttarakhand definitely is a must-do. This trek is a perfect mix of a summit climb and vast alpine meadows. While the Dayara Bugyal trek lets you explore a portion of its meadows, Surya Top takes you even further, revealing the grander, untouched side of Dayara’s rolling grasslands. The Surya Top trek unfolds through a series of stunning landscapes, where endless green meadows meet the towering snow-clad peaks. The scenery feels like a living painting, untouched by noise or crowds, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in nature’s serenity.

The trek begins from the Barsu village, and takes you through enchanting forests filled with oak, rhododendrons, maple and cedar trees. While you keep ascending, the forests open into meadows giving you a wide panoramic view. Passing through Siyari and Dayara bugyal you will reach the Surya Top, the highest point during the trek. From here, you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the mighty Himalayan ranges. Some of the iconic peaks you can see up close include Bandarpoonch, Srikanth, Jaonli, the Gangotri range, and Draupadi ka Danda 2. The view from the top makes every step of the climb worth it.

This trek is a paradise for photography lovers, offering countless opportunities to capture the beauty of nature in its purest form. Unlike many popular treks that are often crowded, Surya Top remains peaceful and untouched, allowing you to trek peacefully. If you like trekking amid the beautiful meadows of the Himalayas, the Surya Top trek is an experience you should definitely have at least once in your life!

Bajre Dara Trek

• Grade- Moderate
• Maximum Altitude- 11,000 ft.
• Best Time- Spring, Autumn, Winter

The last hidden gem on the list is the Bajre Dara Trek, an absolutely stunning yet lesser-known trail that offers one of the most peaceful trekking experiences in India. The name "Bajre" translates to "Bijli" or "light," while "Dara" means ridge, and there’s an interesting story behind this name, to read, head onto our Bajre Dara trek page.

The journey begins from Yuksom, the first capital of Sikkim, where you’ll step into a world of lush greenery and rich cultural heritage. The trek takes you through dense bamboo forests, a rare and refreshing sight that makes the experience even more unique. Along the way, you’ll get to witness Sikkim’s deep-rooted Buddhist culture and visit one of its oldest and most revered monasteries, the Dubdi Monastery. Walking through this charming village, surrounded by the fluttering of prayer flags, is an experience in itself. Another magical spot on this trek is the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, known as the “Wish-Fulfilling Lake” by the locals. Surrounded by dense forests and believed to be blessed, the lake adds a spiritual touch to your adventure. As you ascend, the trek rewards you with stunning views of some of the mightiest Himalayan peaks, including Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim, and Kabru.

If you’re someone who loves exploring the Himalayas, Sikkim’s landscapes remain largely unexplored and full of wonders waiting to be discovered. The Bajre Dara trek is a perfect escape into nature, offering a blend of adventure, culture, and serenity. So, if you're looking for a scenic getaway with fewer crowds and more beauty, this trek should definitely be on your list!

Why Choose Trek the Himalayas for these Adventures?

Whenever you step onto lesser-known trails, you want to be in safe hands, that’s where Trek the Himalayas comes in. Known for being the safest trekking company, Trek the Himalayas ensures that every adventure is not just thrilling but also secure. The experienced team guides you through the untouched beauty of the Himalayas, making sure you enjoy every moment without any worries.

With Trek the Himalayas, you don’t have to think twice about safety, comfort, or convenience. We provide top-notch facilities that make your trekking experience smooth and enjoyable. Whether it’s food, accommodation, or expert assistance, everything is well taken care of so you can focus on the adventure. Not only that, but Trek the Himalayas is also committed to sustainable trekking. They take special care to ensure that these hidden trails remain unspoiled, preserving the delicate biodiversity of the region so that future trekkers can enjoy trekking in India just as much as you do.

So, this time, skip the usual popular treks and set out on an offbeat trek. These lesser-known treks will surely give you a memorable experience, bringing you closer to nature in the most peaceful way possible.