If you are a beginner looking for easy treks in Himachal Pradesh, you are in the right place. Everyone needs a starting point, and there is no better way to connect with nature than trekking in the Himalayas. Himachal Pradesh, with its well-marked trails, accessible basecamps, and varied terrain, is the most popular trekking state in India for good reason.
Trekking in Himachal Pradesh is genuinely life-changing. There is something about carrying your own weight through the mountains, sleeping under open skies, and earning every view with your effort that no road trip or flight can replicate. I have done several treks across Himachal over the years, and each one has taught me something new about the mountains, and about myself.
Himachal Pradesh has always been a favorite destination for trekkers in India. There are so many different levels of treks that you absolutely cannot miss this state when planning an adventure. So why not start from the most popular trekking state in the country?
Let's quickly dive into the details:
What Makes Himachal Pradesh Ideal for Beginner Treks?
Himachal offers something that very few regions can match: a combination of accessible basecamps, well-defined trails, and dramatic landscapes at relatively low altitudes. Most beginner treks here stay below 14,000 ft, which means altitude sickness is rarely a concern if you acclimatize properly. The trails pass through thick forests, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys, giving you a taste of everything the Himalayas have to offer without pushing you beyond your limits.
Building on from how to trek in the Himalayas and also having discussed the sister state of Uttarakhand, we will be deep-diving into the Himachal Pradesh landscape below. The Himachali treks are a sight to behold, and of course, there is a reason folks tend to flock towards Himachal Pradesh. Words are never sufficient to describe these trails, they must be experienced for yourself.
Do not forget to check out our article on easy treks in Uttarakhand.
We have chosen beginner level treks in Himachal Pradesh that are doable by most and provide the biggest bang for your buck. From views to accomplishments, from campsites to the trek itself, we have covered it all.
Quick Reference: 5 Best Beginner Treks in Himachal at a Glance
| Trek | Duration | Max Altitude | Difficulty | Budget (per person) |
| Hampta Pass | 5-6 Days | 14,100 Ft | Easy-Moderate | Rs 8,000-12,000 |
| Prashar Lake | 2 Days | 8,960 Ft | Easy | Rs 2,000-3,000 |
| Triund | 2 Days | 9,350 Ft | Easy | Rs 1,500-2,500 |
| Bhrigu Lake | 3-4 Days | 14,000 Ft | Easy-Moderate | Rs 5,000-8,000 |
| Kareri Lake | 2 Days | 9,700 Ft | Easy-Moderate | Rs 3,000-5,000 |
How Do You Reach Himachal Pradesh for These Treks?
For most beginner level treks listed here, you will need to reach either Manali or Dharamshala as your basecamp. Both are well connected by road, air, and train from major cities.
By Air
There is no airport at Manali. The nearest airport is at Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali Airport), which is 50 km away. Shared taxis and cabs are available near the airport. Flights are limited as this is a small hill-station airport, so if you are on a budget, book well in advance. For Dharamshala-based treks (Triund, Kareri Lake), the nearest airport is Gaggal (Kangra Airport), about 15 km away.
By Train
No direct trains run to Manali or Dharamshala. However, you can take the Shatabdi or Jan Shatabdi to Chandigarh and then hire a cab or take an HRTC bus for the remainder of the journey. For Dharamshala, trains run to Pathankot from where buses and taxis are easily available.
By Road
You can either rent a self-drive car or drive your own vehicle from Delhi to reach Manali. The route is:
Delhi – Sonepat – Panipat – Karnal – Ambala – Rajpura – Sirhind – Fatehgarh Saheb – Roopnagar – Kiratpur – Swarghat – Bilaspur – Sundarnagar – Mandi – Kullu – Manali
The drive takes around 10-12 hours depending on traffic and stops. There is a lot to explore in terms of dhaba food along the way, so enjoy your pitstops.
By Bus
There are regular HRTC and HPTDC buses that run from Kashmiri Gate ISBT, Delhi to Manali. You can catch any of these buses to reach Manali or other locations in Himachal Pradesh for your beginner trek. Cabs and local buses for your onward journey will be available at the bus stand. HRTC ordinary buses cost around Rs 700-900, while Volvo AC buses cost Rs 1,500-2,000 (as of 2026). Private sleeper buses from Delhi range between Rs 2,000-4,000.
In my opinion, taking a bus is a better option. You will not be using your vehicle for the trek, so there is no point stressing about its safety while you are out in the mountains.
1. Hampta Pass Trek: The Most Popular Beginner Adventure in Himachal
Probably the best Himachal Pradesh trek for beginners is the Hampta Pass Trek. It offers some of the most dramatic landscape transitions in the Indian Himalayas, taking you from the lush green Kullu Valley to the stark, barren terrain of Lahaul and Spiti. The Hampta Pass Trek provides a memorable experience with thick forests, river crossings, glacial valleys, and panoramic campsites with crystal clear night skies.
The biggest selling point of this trek is the sheer diversity of landscapes. You start in thick forests, walk through alpine meadows, cross the pass at 14,100 ft, and descend into the completely different world of Spiti Valley. The river crossings add an element of adventure, and the campsites offer some of the best views you will ever wake up to. Do this trek as a beginner for an experience that will get you hooked on trekking for life.
Where Does the Hampta Pass Trek Start?
The trek starts from Jobra (also spelled Jobri), which is about 30 km from Manali. You will need to hire a cab from Manali to reach the starting point.
| Maximum Elevation | 14,100 Ft (4,298 m) |
| Best Season | June to October |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | 5 to 6 Days |
| Distance Covered | 26 km |
| Budget | Rs 8,000-12,000 per person (with operator, 2026) |
| Permit | Forest entry permit required (Inderkilla National Park) |
Hampta Pass Trek Itinerary
The Hampta Pass Trek is a thrilling experience connecting the “Valley of Gods” Manali to “The Middle Land” Spiti Valley. The crossing of the pass itself is an indescribable feeling, but the diversity of views along the way is equally rewarding.
Day 0
Choose your preferred way of reaching Manali. Get in as early as possible and explore the hippie town, which is always bustling with activity.
Day 1: Jobra to Chika (2-3 hours)
Book a cab from Manali to Jobra, which takes around an hour. Your trek begins here. You will walk along the river through forests to reach the first campsite at Chika. The first day is an easy, gradual ascent, perfect for easing into the trekking rhythm. Chika campsite lets you pitch your tent anywhere you like, so choose your spot and settle in for a beautiful night under the stars.
Keep in mind, please carry a water bottle and keep the area as clean as possible, filling up your bottle when needed. Leave no trace, my friend.
Day 2: Chika to Balu ka Gera (5-6 hours)
The second day is more strenuous. Start early and begin trekking towards Balu ka Gera. The trek initially takes you through stones and boulders, followed by crossing a freezing nallah. Cross it carefully and take a break at the Jwara meadow.
Here, you will experience the meeting of two valleys, a truly spectacular sight. After soaking it in, it takes about an hour’s walk to reach Balu ka Gera campsite. Water sources are available throughout the day’s trek, so you do not need to worry about that.
Day 3: Balu ka Gera to Shea Goru via Hampta Pass (6-7 hours)
Start early in the morning to cross Hampta Pass. This is the most adventurous day of the trek. The climb from Balu ka Gera to the top is challenging but equally mesmerizing. Spend some time at the top, and you may even plan a picnic lunch there.
If there is enough snow, sliding down the mountains is genuinely one of the most fun things you will do on any trek. Once you are ready to descend, it takes about an hour to reach your campsite for the night at Shea Goru.
Day 4: Shea Goru to Chatru (3-4 hours)
Today’s trek is mostly descending, but it can be tricky. I would suggest you descend carefully with the support of your trekking pole. After two to three hours, you reach Chatru, which is the ending point of this trek. From here, you may choose to visit Chandratal Lake (about 50 km from Chatru, entry fee Rs 150/Indian) or head back to Manali.
The contrast from the lush green Kullu side to the barren Spiti landscape is something you have to see to believe.
2. Prashar Lake Trek: Which Is the Best Weekend Trek Near Delhi?
Prashar Lake is a blessing for people who do not have enough time for a long trek. This trek can be completed over a long weekend from Delhi and offers a stunning 180-degree view of the Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar, and Kinnaur mountain ranges. It is one of the most rewarding short treks you will find anywhere in Himachal Pradesh.
The Prashar Rishi temple near the lake is an added bonus for anyone interested in ancient architecture. The gorgeous sunset from the hilltop near the lake can be the sole reason for visiting Prashar Lake. The floating island on the lake surface adds to the mystique. To imagine the level of fun you can fit into an extended weekend is a pure delight.
Where Does the Prashar Lake Trek Start?
Baggi Village, about 27-30 km from Mandi. One of the best parts of this trek is that you get to choose your starting point. Though the standard starting point is Baggi, you can drive further ahead and trek a shorter distance.
| Maximum Elevation | 8,960 Ft (2,730 m) |
| Best Season | Open year-round. Jan-Feb for snow treks. |
| Difficulty | Easy, Beginner |
| Duration | 2 Days |
| Distance | 7-8 km one way (from Baggi) |
| Budget | Rs 2,000-3,000 per person (2026) |
Prashar Lake Trek Itinerary
The Prashar Lake trek has it all: history, natural beauty, exquisite sunsets and sunrises, and above all, tranquillity. There is something uniquely special about this year-round accessible trek that takes you away from the hustle and bustle and places you atop a beautiful mystical lake.
The lake, encapsulated by the Dhauladhar range in Kullu Valley, makes for a striking sight with its cobalt blue water and the floating circular island on its surface.
Day 0
Instead of reaching Manali, I would suggest you end your journey earlier at Mandi. It is much easier to reach Baggi Village from Mandi.
Day 1: Baggi to Prashar Lake (5 hours, 7 km)
Take an early morning bus from Mandi Bus Stand towards Baggi village. Make sure you fill up your water bottles as there are very few water sources along the trail.
The trek takes about five hours and covers roughly 7 km. The first sight of the lake, appearing suddenly as you crest the final ridge, will be etched in your memory forever. Explore the area and the ancient Prashar Rishi temple, then settle in for the night.
Day 2: Prashar Lake to Baggi (3-4 hours)
Wake up early to catch the most spectacular sunrise of your trip. You can also fit in a visit to the nearby Sukhasar Lake, about 2 km from Prashar. Once you have explored to your heart’s content, start trekking back to Baggi. The descent is easier and faster. Reach Baggi by 1 PM and catch the bus for Mandi.
Prashar Lake can now be reached by road, but I would strongly urge you to trek your way up. The view feels so much more rewarding when you have earned it.
3. Triund Trek: What Is the Easiest Trek in Himachal Pradesh?
If someone asks me which is the easiest and most accessible trek in Himachal Pradesh, Triund is the answer. One of the most sought-after beginner treks in Himachal Pradesh, Triund has been the first trek for countless Indian travelers. Famous for its 22 steep curves along the way, this weekend trek from Delhi, located in the Dhauladhar range, has a charm that is hard to beat.
This relatively easy trek rewards you with some of the most beautiful views of Indrahar Pass and the Kangra Valley. The best thing about Triund is that it is accessible throughout the year and becomes stunningly beautiful in winters when covered in snow.
Important update (2026): Overnight camping at the Triund top has been regulated by the HP Forest Department. Currently, only about 20 tents are allowed at the Triund campground, and a daily cap of 400 trekkers is enforced. An additional charge of Rs 1,000 may apply for overnight stays. I would recommend pre-booking your camping spot through authorized operators in McLeodganj.
Where Does the Triund Trek Start?
McLeodganj is the starting point or base for Triund Trek. The actual trek begins from Galu Devi Temple (also known as Gallu), and you need to travel to Bhagsu from where the trail leads uphill.
| Maximum Elevation | 9,350 Ft (2,850 m) |
| Best Season | March to May, October to December. Beautiful in winters. |
| Difficulty | Easy, Beginner |
| Duration | 2 Days (can be done as a day trek too) |
| Distance Covered | 9 km one way |
| Budget | Rs 1,500-2,500 per person (2026) |
| Permit | Forest checkpoint fee Rs 100/person/day. Camping fee Rs 550/tent. |
Triund Trek Itinerary
Triund is located approximately 18 km from Dharamshala. Dharamshala is about 475 km from Delhi and has its own airport (Gaggal). While there is no direct train, buses ply the route regularly from ISBT Kashmiri Gate.
This trek has well-defined trails and is accompanied by stunning views of the Kangra Valley. Although the ascent is steep in parts, the views make up for every bit of effort. If you are traveling in spring, the trail will be lit up by blooming rhododendrons, and oak trees will line your path.
Day 1: McLeodganj to Triund (4-5 hours)
Start from McLeodganj as early in the morning as possible. Book a taxi to Galu Devi temple, which is the starting point of your trek. The trail is simple and level for most of the way, except for the last one km, which gets quite steep.
You will be crossing Dharamkot and Naddi along the way. There are a few shops in between where you can have breakfast and fill up your water bottle. Camp at Triund for the night and enjoy the panoramic views of the Dhauladhar ranges. The night sky at Triund, on a clear night, is something else entirely.
Day 2: Triund to McLeodganj (3 hours)
Trek back to Galu Devi temple, which will take you around 3 hours. From there, book a taxi to McLeodganj.
Often the first trek of most people’s lives in Himachal Pradesh, Triund is a staple that will not disappoint. Be prepared for a good amount of walking, only to be rewarded at the end with views that stay with you forever.
4. Bhrigu Lake Trek: Can Beginners Reach 14,000 Ft in Just 3 Days?
Want something more adventurous with a great story to tell? The Bhrigu Lake trek will be exactly that for a beginner trekker. This is a three to four day trek to reach a high alpine glacial lake at 14,000 ft, and for most of the journey, you will be walking through some of the most spectacular meadows in Himachal.
Most Himalayan treks take at least four days to reach this altitude. But with Bhrigu Lake, you accomplish this height in approximately two days, making it a compact but thrilling adventure, especially for beginners who want to push their boundaries a little.
Peaks like Deo Tibba and Seven Sisters are visible from the trail, and you have the option of ending this trek at the Vashisht hot water springs, where you can soak away all the muscle soreness.
Where Does the Bhrigu Lake Trek Start?
Gulaba, about 22 km from Manali (approximately 1 hour drive).
| Maximum Elevation | 14,000 Ft (4,267 m) |
| Best Season | May to June, September to October |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | 3-4 Days (Manali to Manali) |
| Distance Covered | 25 km |
| Budget | Rs 5,000-8,000 per person (with operator, 2026) |
Bhrigu Lake Trek Itinerary
The views of snow-capped mountains, lush forests, cobalt blue skies, and the sound of birds as your companions, that is what this trek embodies. Bhrigu Lake trek has been gaining popularity due to the ease of accomplishment while simultaneously providing genuinely spectacular views.
Day 0
Reach Manali by your preferred mode of travel. Spend the day exploring and acclimatizing.
Day 1: Gulaba to Rola Kholi (4-5 hours)
Drive to Gulaba, located around 22 km from Manali, taking an hour to reach. Start trekking towards your first campsite of Rola Kholi. Carry sufficient water as there are very few sources on the trail.
The trek takes about 4-5 hours depending on your fitness level. You will camp at Rola Kholi at a height of 10,300 ft. The Gulaba Meadows en route are absolutely gorgeous and a great place for a break.
Day 2: Rola Kholi to Bhrigu Lake to Pandu Ropa (7-8 hours)
Today you reach the highlight of the trek. Start early as it is a long day. The Bhrigu Lake is frozen most of the year, and the sight of it surrounded by snow-capped peaks is genuinely special. Hindu mythology attributes the lake to Rishi Bhrigu, and interestingly, the lake is never completely frozen, even in the harshest winter months.
Spend some time at the lake, take in the views, and then walk towards Pandu Ropa for the night.
Day 3: Pandu Ropa to Vashisht (4-5 hours)
Today’s trek is mostly downhill and quite steep, so maintaining balance is important. This is why many people prefer heading back to Gulaba instead. The descent takes about 4 hours to reach Vashisht hot water springs, from where you can head back to Manali. Until June, the route is mostly covered in snow, so good trekking shoes are essential.
Bhrigu Lake Trek will test your physical strength at a few points, but the meadows en route and the glacial lake at the climax make every step absolutely worth it.
5. Kareri Lake Trek: What Is the Best Offbeat Beginner Trek in Himachal?
If you want something quieter, away from the crowds, the Kareri Lake Trek is your answer. This is another two-day trek that takes you to a serene glacial lake surrounded by mountains. The most special thing about this trek is that most people do not know it exists. You will find very few trekkers on the trail, and the level of isolation is genuinely addictive.
The lake is equally beautiful at all times of the year, though summer and monsoon months make for a particularly lush experience. Being Dev Bhoomi Himachal, another attraction near the lake is a Lord Shiva temple. The trek follows and crosses several villages and settlements through thick pine forests, eventually crossing Kareri Nallah several times over wooden bridges.
While most people choose Triund for their first trek, Kareri Lake makes for an equally amazing, and much less crowded, experience.
Where Does the Kareri Lake Trek Start?
Ghera Village, about 20 km from Dharamshala. A forest entry permit for Dhauladhar Wildlife Sanctuary is required, which you can obtain in Dharamshala or McLeodganj.
| Maximum Elevation | 9,700 Ft (2,956 m) |
| Best Season | March to July, September to December |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | 2 Days |
| Distance Covered | 26 km (round trip) |
| Budget | Rs 3,000-5,000 per person (2026) |
| Permit | Forest entry permit for Dhauladhar Wildlife Sanctuary |
Kareri Lake Trek Itinerary
This offbeat trek is a perfect way to spend an adventurous extended weekend. With several campsites along the trail, there are food options available, making it a great beginner or do-it-yourself trek.
Overall you will be walking for about 5 hours on your first day and another 6 hours on the second. The trail is pretty well-defined except for the last stretch towards the lake itself. For this trek, you need to reach Dharamshala.
Day 1: Ghera Village to Reoti (4-5 hours)
Book a cab to Ghera Village, which is around 20 km from Dharamshala. The trek starts through mixed pine forests, and you will pass a small shop that sells snacks and Maggi. After trekking for 4 to 5 hours, you reach Reoti, where you can camp.
Along the way, you will cross bridges, walk through thick pine forests, and be accompanied by the sounds of local birds. Consider yourself lucky if you spot Himalayan Griffon Vultures overhead. At Reoti, you will find basic food and the option of renting sleeping bags and tents. Sleeping bag rental is approximately Rs 150-200 (as of 2026), and tent pricing depends on size.
Day 2: Reoti to Kareri Lake and Back (5-6 hours)
Start trekking towards Kareri Lake, which is about an hour’s trek from Reoti. I would suggest waking up as early as possible to start your day. On the way, you will cross the Nyund Nallah, which gains speed as you approach the lake.
You can take a slight detour to explore the Shiv Temple atop a hilltop. The path is paved with stone steps, so you will easily recognize the way. On the other side of the hill lies the beautiful, glacial Kareri Lake. Spend some time at the peaceful lake, then head back to Reoti and onward to Ghera village, from where you can go to Dharamshala by cab.
Kareri Trek is a gorgeous experience, engulfing you in pine forests and taking you right up to a glacial lake to relax, unwind, and enjoy spectacular nature in complete solitude.
What Should You Keep in Mind Before Trekking in Himachal Pradesh?
- Do not go without a guide on any trek unless you have significant experience. Mountains can be harsh, and a local guide can be a lifesaver in bad weather or trail emergencies.
- Use proper trekking gear on every trek. In case of bad weather, your gear will not just be helpful but often critical for your safety.
- Always carry extra water and food while trekking, because weather in the mountains is always uncertain.
- Do not litter waste in the mountains. No cleaning crew will come after you. Be a responsible trekker and keep these mountains clean and beautiful for the next person.
- Invest in a good pair of trekking shoes under Rs 5,000. Your feet will thank you.
- Start training at least 2-3 weeks before your trek. Even easy treks require a basic level of fitness, especially in your legs and cardio.
Other Beginner-Friendly Treks Worth Considering
While the five treks above are my top picks, Himachal Pradesh has over 200 defined trails. Here are a few more beginner-friendly options worth exploring:
- Kheerganga Trek in Parvati Valley, a 2-day trek ending at natural hot springs (12 km one way, 9,700 ft).
- Beas Kund Trek near Manali, a 3-day trek to the source of the Beas River (12,500 ft).
- Treks in Parvati Valley, including Tosh and Grahan, which are excellent short treks for beginners.
- Winter treks in Uttarakhand and Himachal, for those who want snow treks without high difficulty.
Have Questions? Let Us Know 🙂
These are some of the best beginner treks in Himachal Pradesh that will surely leave you wanting more. Trekking is an amazing way to test your limits, push your boundaries, and come out stronger, mentally, physically, and emotionally.
Himachal Pradesh provides hundreds of trekking opportunities across all difficulty levels. The five trails above make for the best starting points for beginners. Hoping you will have an exhilarating experience out there!
Are there any other treks we should add to this list? What has been your favorite trekking experience in the Himalayas? Do comment below. I would love to swap some stories! And if you know friends or family planning a trek in Himachal Pradesh, feel free to share this article with them. Also, feel free to join the DwD Community for route updates, trek conditions, and connecting with fellow trekkers.
Last Updated: March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the easiest trek in Himachal Pradesh for complete beginners?
Triund Trek from McLeodganj is considered the easiest trek in Himachal Pradesh. The 9 km trail is well-marked, takes about 4-5 hours, and reaches a maximum altitude of 9,350 ft. It can be done as a day trek or with an overnight stay. The only challenging section is the last 1 km, which is steep. It is the most popular first trek for Indian travelers.
How much does a beginner trek in Himachal Pradesh cost?
A beginner trek in Himachal costs between Rs 1,500 to Rs 12,000 per person depending on the trek duration and whether you go with an operator. Short treks like Triund and Prashar Lake cost Rs 1,500-3,000 including transport, food, and camping. Longer treks like Hampta Pass with a trekking operator cost Rs 8,000-12,000 all-inclusive. Solo trekkers can do shorter treks for even less.
What is the best time for trekking in Himachal Pradesh?
The best months for beginner treks in Himachal Pradesh are May to June and September to October. May-June offers pleasant weather with green trails and blooming wildflowers. September-October has clear skies and the best mountain visibility. Avoid July-August due to monsoon rains and slippery trails. Some treks like Prashar Lake and Triund are accessible in winter too, but you will need proper cold-weather gear.
Do I need a permit for trekking in Himachal Pradesh?
Most beginner treks in Himachal do not require a formal permit. However, some treks pass through protected areas. Hampta Pass requires a forest entry permit for Inderkilla National Park. Kareri Lake requires a permit for Dhauladhar Wildlife Sanctuary. Triund has a forest checkpoint fee of Rs 100 per person per day. These permits can be obtained in the nearest town before starting the trek.
Can I do these treks without a guide?
Short, well-marked treks like Triund and Prashar Lake can be done without a guide as the trails are clear and well-traveled. However, for treks like Hampta Pass, Bhrigu Lake, and Kareri Lake, I would strongly recommend hiring a local guide, especially if it is your first time trekking. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, and having a guide who knows the terrain can make a significant difference to your safety.
Is Hampta Pass trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, Hampta Pass is classified as easy-to-moderate and is one of the most popular beginner treks in India. The trek reaches 14,100 ft, which is relatively high, but the gradual ascent over 5 days makes it manageable. Basic fitness and stamina are required. Most trekking operators run guided batches that are well-suited for first-timers. Start training 2-3 weeks before the trek for the best experience.
What should I pack for a beginner trek in Himachal Pradesh?
Essential items include trekking shoes with good grip, a 40-50 litre backpack, layered clothing (base layer, fleece, windproof jacket), a rain poncho, sunscreen (SPF 50), sunglasses, a headlamp, a water bottle (2 litres minimum), energy bars, a first aid kit, and a sleeping bag if camping. Avoid carrying too much weight. For a detailed packing list, check our trekking essentials guide.
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I strongly believe that himachal pradesh has everything for everyone. Your article has proven my belief right. The tips you have provided are actually important and helpful for the people who are the beginners of trek. Thank you for sharing this information.