Trekking with friends in India is an enriching experience. You can conquer challenging terrains, witness the stunning beauty of India, and dive into the vibrant local cultures.

From the Himalayas to the Western Ghats, plenty of options are available for everyone, ranging from day hikes to multi-day expeditions.

Take the opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime with your closest buddies.

1. Kedarkantha Peak Trek | 20 km

Kedarkantha is a popular 6-day winter trek in Uttarakhand, known for its snow-covered mountains and stunning vistas. The trek offers picturesque forests, snowy trails, verdant meadows, and breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains. 

It begins from the traditional village of Sankri and is suitable for both novice and seasoned hikers. If you love mountains, snow, and wilderness, Kedarkantha is a must-visit.

• Altitude: 3,810 m
  
• Best Time to Visit: December to March
• Duration of the Trek (including travelling): 6 days
• Difficulty Level: Easy

2. Harishchandragad Trek | 6 km

Harishchandragad is a popular destination among trekkers due to its various adventure activities. The hike allows you to experience rappelling, rock climbing, and valley crossing all in one go, making it a paradise for adventure enthusiasts.

It is considered one of the best forts for camping in Maharashtra, owing to its scenic beauty and peaceful environment. The fort boasts a total of nine caves, two of which are large and spacious, providing ample space for visitors to explore.

• Altitude: 1,422 m
  
• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Duration of the Trek (including travelling): 2 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate       

3. Rajmachi Fort Trek | 16 km

Rajmachi Fort, located on the wild slopes of the Sahyadri Mountains, is one of the most magnificent ancient forts in history. It's surrounded by lush valleys, waterfalls, and stunning flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for trekking.

Take a break from city life and reconnect with nature by trekking to Rajmachi Fort. Enjoy an exciting day out with your family and friends.

• Altitude: 838m
  
• Best Time to Visit: June to November
• Duration of the Trek (including travelling): 2 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

4. Buran Ghati Trek | 29 km

Buran Ghati Trek is a perfect option for adventure seekers looking for snow, meadows, mountain ranges, and passes. This unique trekking route offers breathtaking scenery, luxurious camping areas, and exciting activities.

Buran Ghati Trek combines culture, history, adventure, and stunning scenery, leaving you in complete wonder. The climb to Buran Pass is an exceptional experience for adventure enthusiasts to learn about the technical side of climbing.

• Altitude: 4,572m
  
• Best Time to Visit: May to June & September to October
• Duration of the Trek (including travelling): 8 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

5. Doodhpathri Tosamaidan Lakes Trek | 49 km

The Doodhpathri Tosamaidan Lakes trek in Kashmir is a breathtaking journey that takes you past nine alpine lakes, four valleys, forests, meadows and rivers. The trek offers stunning campsites near the Gurwansar Lake and the Tosamaidan Forbidden Meadows. 

The highlight of the trek is Tosamaidan, a mesmerizingly beautiful place where the golden sunrise bathes the snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows.

• Altitude: 4,024m
  
• Best Time to Visit: May to September
• Duration of the Trek (including travelling): 7 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

6. Pin Bhaba Trek | 48 km

The Pin Bhaba Pass is a dramatic pass-crossing trek. It offers breathtaking and varied landscapes every day of the journey, including the woodlands of Mulling, the grasslands of Karah, the meadows of Karah and the river delta of Phutsirang.

The trek provides a fantastic view of the Bhaba Valley and Pin Valley below, against the Spiti Alps. The Pin Bhaba Trek is safer than the Pin Parvati Pass Trek and offers a stunning and varied experience.

• Altitude: 4,907m
  
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-July to Early-September
• Duration of the Trek (including travelling): 9 days
• Difficulty Level: Hard

7. Parang La Trek | 128 km

The Parang La Trek is an 11-day hike that starts in Kaza and ends in Karzok village, Leh. It takes place at a high altitude, and prior experience is required due to the complexity of the trail.

This trek offers a diverse terrain that captures the Spiti and Ladakh regions' rich culture and beautiful scenery.

• Altitude: 5,600m
• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Duration of the Trek (including travelling): 11 days
• Difficulty Level: Hard

Trekking with friends is an exciting and adventurous experience, but it's important to be prepared before embarking on your journey. Here are some things to keep in mind before going on a trek with friends in India:

• Choose a suitable trek: Before selecting a tour, consider your group's fitness level and the trek's difficulty level. Choose a trek that suits everyone's physical abilities.
  
• Check weather conditions: Always check the weather forecast before going on a trek. Avoid trekking during monsoon season as it can be dangerous due to slippery paths and landslides.
  
• Get proper gear: Use good trekking gear like shoes, backpacks and clothing. Ensure everyone in the group has adequate equipment and clothing suitable for the trekking season and terrain.
  
• Carry enough food and water: Carry enough food and water for the entire trek. Stay hydrated and carry energy bars or snacks to maintain your energy levels.
  
• Hire a local guide: It's always advisable to hire a local guide who knows the trekking route well. A local guide can also provide valuable insights into the local culture and history.
  
• Get necessary permits: Some trekking routes require permits or permissions from local authorities. Make sure you obtain all necessary permits before starting your trek.
  
• Carry a first-aid kit: Always carry a kit with essential medicines and bandages. In case of injuries or emergencies, immediate first aid can be provided.
  
• Respect the environment: Trekking is a great way to experience nature, but respecting and preserving the environment is essential. Avoid littering and damaging the surroundings, and always follow the Leave No Trace principles.
  

India is a trekker's paradise with numerous breathtaking destinations that offer thrilling experiences. Some of the best trekking areas in India include the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim as well as the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. 

These places offer a combination of challenging and picturesque trails, rich cultural experiences and an opportunity to connect with nature. So, gather your friends and embark on a trekking adventure in India that you'll never forget.