11 hikes in India for beginners
3 min readNew DelhiMar 12, 2026 01:00 AM India’s diverse terrain — from the Himalayas to the Western Ghats — offers plenty of beginner-friendly hikes that don’t demand technical skills or extreme fitness. If you’re new to trekking but eager to experience sunrise summits, forest trails, and mountain meadows, these easy hikes are perfect to start with.
1. Triund (Himachal Pradesh)
Altitude: 2,850 mBest time: March–June, September–NovemberOne of India’s most popular beginner treks, Triund offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar range. The 5–6 km trail from McLeod Ganj is well-marked, moderately inclined, and doable over a weekend.
2. Nag Tibba (Uttarakhand)
Altitude: 3,022 mBest time: October–AprilKnown as the “Serpent’s Peak,” this is the highest peak in the lower Himalayas of the region. The trail is gradual, forested, and ideal for a first Himalayan summit experience.
3. Tadiandamol (Karnataka)
Altitude: 1,748 mBest time: October–FebruaryThe highest peak in Coorg, Tadiandamol, features grassy slopes and shola forests. The trail is straightforward and perfect for beginners wanting a Western Ghats experience.
4. Rajmachi Fort (Maharashtra)
Altitude: Approximately 820 mBest time: June–FebruaryA monsoon favourite near Mumbai and Pune, this trail offers waterfalls, lush greenery, and horic ruins of forts. The route is wide and non-technical.
5. Chopta to Tungnath Temple (Uttarakhand)
A bugyal (meadow) in Chopta (Photo: Wikipedia)
Altitude: 3,680 m (Tungnath)Best time: April–NovemberThis paved 3.5 km trail leads to the world’s highest Shiva temple. Snow in early spring and sweeping Himalayan views make it unforgettable yet accessible.
6. Kumara Parvatha (Karnataka)
Altitude: 1,712 mBest time: October–FebruaryThough slightly challenging toward the summit, the initial sections are manageable for fit beginners. Expect dense forests and expansive ridge views.Story continues below this ad
7. Kheerganga (Himachal Pradesh)
Altitude: 2,960 mBest time: May–June, September–OctoberA gentle 12 km hike through forests and waterfalls ending in natural hot springs. Ideal for first-time multi-hour trekkers.
8. Sandakphu (West Bengal)
Altitude: 3,636 mBest time: April–May, October–DecemberIndia’s highest peak in West Bengal offers views of four of the world’s five tallest mountains. While longer, the trail is gradual and can even be driven in parts.
9. Dzukou Valley (Nagaland–Manipur)
Dzukou Valley (Photo Wikipedia)
Altitude: 2,452 mBest time: June–September (flowers), October–NovemberKnown as the “Valley of Flowers of the Northeast,” this trek is short but scenic, especially during bloom season.
10. Chembra Peak (Kerala)
Altitude: 2,100 mBest time: September–FebruaryFamous for its heart-shaped lake, Chembra Peak offers a steady incline and lush views of Wayanad’s rolling hills.Story continues below this ad
11. Matheran Panorama Trail (Maharashtra)
Altitude: 800 mBest time: October–MayA car-free hill station with multiple easy walking trails. The Panorama Trail is mostly flat and beginner-friendly with sweeping valley views.
Trekking tips for beginners
Start with shorter dances (4–6 km).
Wear proper trekking shoes with grip.
Carry 1–2 litres of water and light snacks.
Check weather forecasts and avoid peak monsoon landslides in hilly areas.If trekking above 2,500 m, ascend gradually and stay hydrated to prevent altitude discomfort.
