Beginners looking for easy treks in Uttarakhand are pretty common, and honestly, everyone needs a start somewhere. There cannot be a better start to connect with nature than trekking. Are you a beginner in trekking and want to explore some amazing yet easy treks in the Uttarakhand region? You have come to the right place.
Uttarakhand, often called DevBhoomi or “Land of Gods,” is a paradise for first-time trekkers. From Jim Corbett National Park to the Valley of Flowers, from the Dhams of Badrinath and Kedarnath to the holy places of Rishikesh and Haridwar, from thrilling adventure activities including river rafting, bungee jumping, many treks and even skiing around the region, Uttarakhand has you covered.
If you truly want to connect with yourself, with nature and find your center of peace, you need to climb some mountains, you guys! Trekking is the best escape from a life that rewards you with some of the prettiest views in this world. You get to see the sunrises before everyone else.
If you are a beginner in trekking, haven’t climbed any mountains yet, don’t you worry. I’ll tell you all the beginner level treks in Uttarakhand which you can do in a very short time.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
What Makes Uttarakhand Ideal for Beginner Treks?
Uttarakhand is a paradise when it comes to beginner level treks. The most beautiful part of the journey is that it isn’t crowded. A very negligible portion of tourists and travelers is long term trekkers. And add to that the benefit of Uttarakhand being full of offbeat locations. This state has some amazing beginner treks which you can easily conquer in 3 to 6 days while having the best time of your life.
Do not forget to check out our article on easy treks in Himachal as well.
The best months for trekking in Uttarakhand are May to June and September to October. Spring brings rhododendrons in full bloom, summer opens up high-altitude meadows, monsoon is for the Valley of Flowers, and winter gifts you snow-covered trails. There is no real off-season if you pick the right trek.
| Trek | Duration | Max Altitude | Difficulty | Budget (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naag Tibba | 2 Days | 9,914 Ft | Easy-Moderate | INR 4,000-5,000 |
| Kedarkantha | 5-6 Days | 12,500 Ft | Moderate | INR 8,000-10,000 |
| Dayara Bugyal | 5-6 Days | 12,500 Ft | Moderate | INR 9,000-11,000 |
| Deoriatal-Chandrashila | 4-5 Days | 12,083 Ft | Easy-Moderate | INR 8,000-10,000 |
| Valley of Flowers | 4-5 Days | 14,400 Ft | Easy-Moderate | INR 9,000-12,000 |
How to Reach the Starting Point: Dehradun
For all beginner level treks listed here, I am assuming you’ve reached Dehradun (unless otherwise explicitly stated). Dehradun is connected by road, air and train alike.
By Air
The airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. There are cabs (shared and private) available near the Airport. Many flights fly daily from major domestic locations to reach the airport.
By Train
There are multiple trains running between Delhi and Dehradun. The most convenient journey can be made in Shatabdi, which leaves at 6:45 AM and reaches Dehradun at 12:50 PM. Another great option is Nanda Devi AC Express which leaves at 11:50 PM and reaches at 5:40 AM in Dehradun. Again, there are cabs (shared and private) available at the station.
By Road
You can either rent a self-drive car or drive on your own from Delhi to reach Dehradun. The route is as below:
Delhi – Mohan Nagar – Modi Nagar – Khatauli – Muzaffarnagar – Roorkee – Dehradun
Overall, the journey will take you about 6 hours of driving time via NH58/NH44. The journey is not tedious and if you’re a comfortable driver, you’ll be happy along the route.
By Bus
There are regular UPSRTC and UTC buses that run from Kashmiri Gate ISBT, Delhi to Dehradun. You can catch any of these buses and reach Dehradun. Again, cabs and buses for your journey ahead will be available at the Bus Stand. UTC Volvo buses cost around INR 700-1,200 one way (as of 2026).
For all journeys to reach Dehradun, it is better to reach as early in the morning as possible. With our almost always jam-packed schedules and difficulty in getting extended vacation days, be diligent in starting early! Also, keep in mind that driving in the dark in the hills, especially for someone not acquainted with mountain driving, is not at all encouraged.
How Hard Is the Naag Tibba Trek for Beginners?
Naag Tibba is a gorgeous trek, with the trail taking you up one side of the mountain and the descent on the other side, providing you with the most spectacular and varied views. Situated in the Garhwal hills, the Naag Tibba Trek is a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi.
Reaching the top requires climbing up the Naag Tibba range to reach the Naag Tibba summit from base camp. Approximately, this will take you about 5-6 hours, depending upon your fitness level.
| Maximum Elevation | 9,914 Ft |
| Best Weather | Year-round. Although, best avoided in the Monsoon months. Summer: Daytime 12-16°C, Nighttime 6-10°C |
| Difficulty | Easy-Moderate. Follow the stone trail in place, thanks to the Forest Department. However, be careful as there are some places where the path has loose gravel (watch your grip!) |
| Duration | 2 Days |
| Distance Covered | 8 Kms |
| Budget (2026) | INR 4,000-5,000 (Dehradun-Dehradun) |
Acclimatization is not a concern during the Naag Tibba trek as the maximum height you’ll achieve won’t have any dearth of oxygen. However, I must mention that you should carry sufficient water (and your own water bottle!) from your starting point of Pantwari village.
The first water source is around 1.5 KMs along the trek and the second source is available near the Forest Department (adjacent to the gate), approximately 3.5 Kms from the village.
Trek Starting Point
Pantwari village. The journey to reach Pantwari village takes approximately 4 hours from Dehradun, covering a distance of 85 KMs, and takes you along Mussoorie, Kempty Falls, crossing over the Yamuna river.
How to Reach Naag Tibba Base Camp
Having reached Dehradun, you will need to catch a bus or hire a taxi to Nainbagh. The total distance of 75 km will take you approximately 3 hours of driving time. If you’re driving on your own, follow the route mentioned above in reaching Nainbagh. Once at your location, hire a jeep or hail an irregular bus towards Pantwari Village, which will take you another 30 minutes.
Naag Tibba Itinerary
The following is the most common itinerary for your reference.
Day 0
Reach Dehradun as early as possible and from there start your journey towards the base of the camp, i.e. Pantwari Village.
Day 1
Start trek from Pantwari to Camp 1/Khatian. The 4.5 KM stretch will take you almost 3 hours to trek. The trail is mostly defined in all places, whether it is the cemented start from the heart of the Pantwari village or the rocky markings along the trail further ahead. The climb is mostly gradual with certain steep points, making for an overall beautiful experience. Camp in the night.
Day 2
Start trek from Camp 1/Khatian campsite towards the Naag Tibba summit (9,915 Ft) via the Naag Tibba Base (8,530 Ft). Atop the summit, you will get jaw-drop gorgeous views of the Garhwal peaks, including Swargrohini, Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, Srikanta, and Gangotri. In the winter months, there will be a tonne of snow, and the experience will have its magic.
After looking out into the views to your heart’s desire, it is time to start your descent to Bhatwadi village from the opposite side of the hill or choose to head back to Pantwari.
The journey of 3 km to the summit will take you approximately two hours and the descent of ~8 km will be around 3 hours more. There is a 10-minute section in the trail that is especially steep right before the summit. Reach back to Dehradun and then an overnight bus to Delhi.
Of course, both days it is essential to rise early, to make the most of the experience. As a beginner trekker, it is advised to get a guide who knows the trails and the forests well.
Is Kedarkantha Trek Good for First-Time Trekkers?
A significantly important place in Hindu mythology, the Kedarkantha trek is slightly more challenging than the Naag Tibba Trek. Involving a bigger time commitment, if you are up for a challenge, and want to be rewarded with spectacular views, then Kedarkantha Trek will not disappoint.
This trek will take you through views of frozen lakes, has some of the prettiest campsites across all Himalayan Treks and shows off some magnificent mountain peaks. Although the trek is only five days, you’ll get an opportunity to climb the summit in this short amount of time, which itself is enough reason to do this trek.
| Maximum Elevation | 12,500 Ft |
| Best Weather | Year-round. Best avoided in Monsoon months. Preferred period is winter months. January to April: -6°C to 2°C daytime, -10°C to -18°C at night |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Duration | 5-6 Days (Assuming starting point of Dehradun) |
| Distance Covered | 23 Kms |
| Budget (2026) | INR 8,000-10,000 (Sankri to Sankri) |
Kedarkantha Trek Starting Point
Sankri Village, Uttarakhand. Again, as for most Uttarakhand treks, reach Dehradun by your chosen mode of transportation as early in the AM as possible. From Dehradun, push off for Sankri Village, the starting point of your Uttarakhand Adventure.
Sankri is approximately 10 hours from Dehradun, so plan accordingly. There is a forest permit that is needed before you enter Sankri. You’ll have to fill up the details and have a photocopy of your ID. The forest permit fee is around INR 200 per person (verify locally for current rates).
Kedarkantha Itinerary (Sankri to Sankri)
Having reached the starting point of the Kedarkantha Trek in Uttarakhand, the below condensed version of the trek should make for a decent roadmap to follow (even though there won’t be any roads for you along the way!).
Day 1: Trek from Sankri to Juda ka Talab
This journey of approximately 4 KMs will take you about 3-4 hours, depending upon your fitness levels. The view in the trek will have you mesmerized, I guarantee you! The trail might be a little steep in certain places and will test your endurance. Juda ka Talab is situated at the height of 9,100 Ft. Camp at Juda Ka Talab and enjoy the magical night sky.
Day 2: Trek from Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp
Another 4 KM trek for you today! This journey will take you anywhere from 3-5 hours, depending upon your fitness level and skills in the hills. You will go through meadows and densely forested hills and cross steep ridges. From the base camp, the Kedarkantha Peak is visible for your viewing pleasure.
Day 3: Trek from Kedarkantha Base Camp to Summit and Descend to Hargaon
The day to conquer literal mountains! The total distance of 6 KMs will take you from 11,250 Ft to 12,500 Ft and take you back down to 8,900 Ft. What a day! It is ESSENTIAL to start your day early as the journey is long and tedious (but the views are well worth it!).
At the top, the Kedarkantha summit offers 360-degree arresting views of Himalayan ranges mixed with white and dark blue clouds. There is a small temple dedicated to Shivji and Goddess Parvati, with a small shrine for Lord Ganesh. Take your time, relax and soak in the generous views to your heart’s content. It is hard to describe in words the sights only your heart can capture.
The downward journey to Hargaon will take you 2 hours. Celebrate with a bonfire in Hargaon!
Day 4: Trek from Hargaon to Sankri
Since you’re mostly descending, the overall journey from Hargaon to Sankri will take you 3ish hours. You’ll be at a height of 6,400 Ft in Sankri.
This beginner-level trek, Kedarkantha is especially beautiful in the winter months. One of the most remarkable crests in the Himalayan region, both nature lovers and ardent trekkers tend to enjoy the experience. If you want a proper winter snow trek as your first Himalayan adventure, Kedarkantha is hard to beat.
What to Expect on the Dayara Bugyal Trek?
Often known as the most beautiful meadow in India, Bedni Bugyal can only contest Dayara Bugyal. An all-time favorite location for local shepherds to take their flock, the richness of Himalayan peaks, often seen as the givers of life, is the definition of this place. Dayara Bugyal is gorgeous, there is no denying that.
Words and stories don’t do justice to the place, and it is truly a sight you must experience to understand. While the summer months will be a treat to watch given the lushness and sprinkling of life across the meadow, the winter months carry their charm. The unending blanket of white on the mighty and majestic Himalayas is awe-inspiring.
This trail crosses through beautiful forests and meadows. It’s one of the most thrilling meadows you will ever trek on. Bandarpoonch peak, Gangotri ranges, and Draupalika Danda ranges are very close, in fact right in front of you.
This trek will take you through a mixture of Oak, Rhododendron and Maple forests. Once you reach the meadow, however, all will be forgotten and much will be remembered!
Important 2026 Update: Dayara Bugyal is open for trekking. Keep in mind that the Uttarakhand High Court’s 2018 bugyal camping ban applies to certain alpine meadows (Roopkund is still closed), but Dayara Bugyal is currently permitted under guidelines. Always check with the local forest department before your trip.
Trek Starting Point
Raithal, Uttarakhand
| Maximum Elevation | 12,500 Ft |
| Best Weather | Year-round. Best avoided in Monsoon months. Preferred period is winter. January to April: -6°C to 2°C daytime, -10°C to -18°C at night |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Duration | 5-6 Days (Assuming starting point of Dehradun) |
| Distance Covered | 23 Kms |
| Budget (2026) | INR 9,000-11,000 (Dehradun to Dehradun) |
Dayara Bugyal Itinerary
This trek will take you around 6 days in total. I have jotted down a referral itinerary to help you plan.
Day 0
Reach Dehradun using your preferred mode of transportation as described above. It is best if you reach early in the AM, so plan accordingly.
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Raithal
The drive from Dehradun is enthralling, taking you through lovely woodlands and should be covered in 8-9 hours. Since you’ll be driving next to the Bhagirathi River for a better part of the journey, the music of the river will keep you engrossed. Once you reach Uttarkashi, you will split towards Batwari. The views entering Raithal will leave you speechless, especially during the sunset over Jaonli’s peak!
Day 2: Trek from Raithal to Gui
You’ll be climbing up from 7,400 Ft of Raithal to 9,500 Ft of Gui. The trek today is easy-moderate and should take you around 5 hours, depending upon your fitness levels. I must mention that you need to carry enough water as there are no major water resources during this part of the trek.
The views along the trek include the Srikhand Mahadev peak along with Gangotri peaks (1, 2, 3). The higher up you go, the clearer the views become. The trail is laid out well. About an hour into the trek, you will come across a small water hand pump. After this, you’ll be engulfed in the woods. Gui campsite is located in a small clearing. Enjoy your time star-gazing through the night.
Day 3: Trek from Gui to Barnala
Today’s trek will take about 4 hours, and you’ll be climbing up to 11,100 Ft. This terrain is mostly a flat trail through the forest. Again, be sure to carry water. Today, the view is only on one side but makes up spectacularly. There are some igloo-shaped forest department structures once you reach Barnala.
You may choose to visit the Barnala meadows as well today. This requires an effort of 10-15 minutes. There is a small lake along with a Nag-Devta Temple. While the walk to reach the temple is steep, the views are worth every breath! Try reaching the temple around sunset as the nearby ranges and mountain peaks light up in the colors of the sunset!
Day 4: Trek from Barnala to Top and Back to Gui
Today, you’ll be climbing up to the maximum height of 12,057 Ft and returning to 9,500 Ft. The journey is a moderate trek, and you walk through meadows before the final hike. It should take you around 5-6 hours. There is one water source on the way, so carry enough water and remember to fill up!
There is a well-laid stone path that takes you up the ascent through the dense forest after the Barnala meadow. Bandarpoonch and Kala Nag are a sight to see when on the trek. If visiting at the beginning of summer, you’ll spot lots of flowers across the meadow. In the winter months, you’ll be welcomed by powdery snow splattered across the views. Enjoy as much time as you like here before starting your descent.
Day 5: Trek from Gui to Raithal
Today’s return journey will take around 4 hours. So, it is imperative to start your trek early.
Day 6: Drive Back to Dehradun
Time to head back home, younguns!
Since it is a longer duration trek, it might be useful, especially for beginner trekkers, to have a guide along! The meadows are beckoning and inviting, and while the journey might not be grilling in terms of toughness, the views at the meadow are something no one can describe. Experience for yourself and know what connecting with oneself and nature truly means.
How Difficult Is the Deoriatal-Chandrashila Trek?
If you want to enjoy the serenity of winter months and have the stark white stare right into your soul, then this is one of the best treks. The biggest selling feature of the trek has to be its iconic campsites. Also, as an example, when you climb up to Deoriatal, you’ll be perched right up on a beautiful lake while all the Himalayan peaks engulf the lake. And, there you are camping around it.
Likewise, I must talk about the second campsite of Rohini Bugyal, which smacks down in the middle of the forest. And finally, the amazing summit climb on snow! What can I even say about this particular trek! It won’t be enough. But, let me just say this. You don’t get this kind of snow climbs in all the treks. If you are a beginner searching for a trek in winters, then this trek is perfect for you.
Trek Starting Point
Sari village, Uttarakhand
| Maximum Elevation | 12,083 Ft |
| Best Weather | Preferred winter trek. Spring is a good season to travel as well |
| Difficulty | Easy-Moderate |
| Duration | 4-5 Days (Assuming starting point of Dehradun) |
| Distance Covered | 18 Kms |
| Budget (2026) | INR 8,000-10,000 (Dehradun to Dehradun) |
Deoriatal-Chandrashila Itinerary
To enjoy the spring months with Rhododendrons in full bloom, or the winter months of pure, beautiful snow all around, head to this trail! The best part? Getting to see all the major (and mighty) summits of the Uttarakhand region up close and personal. A trek this easy with views this magnificent is hard to find. This trek will take you around four to five days in total.
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sari Village via Haridwar
The journey is scenic, and the views are astounding. You will see the confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi (thus, forming Ganga). Sari is at an elevation of 6,600 Ft. From Haridwar, the journey will take you 8 hours.
Day 2: Trek from Sari to Deoriatal
A relatively easier day with only 3 KMs of trekking time, which could take you anywhere from 1-2 hours. The trek today is easy, and the trail is well defined. There are no water sources, so remember to carry your water from Sari! If traveling in the spring months, the trail will be colored with beautiful Rhododendrons.
Deoriatal or Devariya Tal comes after a short downhill trek after reaching a dhaba en route. Hope for a clear night. The views will be spectacular from your campsite!
Did you know that Rhododendrons are juiced to make the perfect fruity drink? Ask some locals if the same can be available for your tasting pleasure!
Day 3: Trek from Deoriatal to Baniya Kund Through Rohini Bugyal
This is a big mammoth packed day. You will be covering a distance of 7 KMs, which will take you around 6-7 hours. The trek today is moderate, you’ll have an easy climb for the first 45 minutes, followed by a gradual descent for 40 minutes and rapidly succeeded by another ascent of an hour towards Rohini Bugyal.
You’ll have the option to fill your water bottles 20 minutes before reaching Rohini Bugyal (however, this might be frozen if traveling in the winter months). Post Rohini Bugyal you’ll be traversing through ascents and descents to reach Chopta.
The forest will continue to thicken around you throughout the entire day today. There are also multiple shrines scattered across your trek today. If you’re lucky, you might even spot leopards and foxes. Keep your eyes peeled and be alert of noises around you!
Uttarakhand is also famous for its birds. As the forest continues to thicken, the birds become more exotic and rare. They will be a sight to behold.
En route, you will also spot Kala Parvat, below which is a small glacial lake, Bisuri Tal. Of course, there is a legend associated with the lake, the Pandavas hid their weapons here.
You can choose to stay at Rohini Bugyal for the night or move further ahead for another 3 KMs. It is preferable to camp at Baniya Kund Campsite, especially if you’re pressed for time. However, you can easily have a more relaxed day by covering these three KMs the next day. Take a call.
Day 4: Trek from Chopta to Chandrashila Top and Back to Chopta
Start this day as early as possible from Baniya Kund. This will ensure you catch a spectacular sunrise from Tungnath and Chandrashila peaks. There is a cemented pilgrim trail from your campsite where your journey for the day starts. The climb is sharp, but, overall, the walk is enjoyable.
At Tungnath, there is a beautiful historical temple (which is closed in the winter months). From the temple, Chandrashila peak is about 1.5 KMs, with the last half KM being an extremely sharp climb. At the top, enjoy the panoramic views of Garhwal and Kumaon peaks.
Spend as much time as you like here and then start your descent towards Chopta. You will be able to find some guesthouses in Chopta. Basic rooms in Chopta cost around INR 500-1,500 per night (as of 2026).
Day 5: Drive Back from Chopta to Haridwar
Return back from your spectacular journey!
A trek to be enjoyed just for the sheer beauty of the trail and the spectacular views from the top. It is even more endearing, given that you don’t have to work too hard for your views. Great for beginners to get into trekking. For a more detailed guide on this trek, check out my Tungnath-Chandrashila-Deoriatal itinerary.
When Should You Do the Valley of Flowers Trek?
Known all around the world, Valley of Flowers trek is FAMOUS, possibly the most searched place in Uttarakhand (although there is tough competition for great places to see in the state)!
It’s a rare botanical garden with an epiphany of colors. The entire valley (huge, wide, stretching up to around 8-10 km) is submerged in the play of colors. The moment you enter the valley, you see the amazing riot of flowers.
There are different kinds of flowers like red, which are followed by the pretty yellow flowers. The valley itself is beautiful scenery, you have views of peaks on all sides, some of them are snow-clad, some are grasslands, and on top of it all, there is also a beautiful river flowing in the middle of the valley. Valley of Flowers is amazing for a first-timer. If a landscape can be defined as ideal, this has to be it!
Also, you must cover the Hemkund Sahib. Having langar after an adrenaline-charged climb to the top of 14,400 Ft is an achievement that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Trek Starting Point
Govindghat, Uttarakhand
| Maximum Elevation | 14,400 Ft |
| Best Weather | July and August (Monsoon only trek) |
| Difficulty | Easy-Moderate |
| Duration | 4-5 Days (Assuming starting point of Dehradun) |
| Distance Covered | 17 Kms (round trip from Ghanghariya) |
| Budget (2026) | INR 9,000-12,000 (Dehradun to Dehradun) |
| Entry Fee (2026) | INR 200/person/day (Indians), INR 850/person/day (Foreigners) |
Valley of Flowers Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Haridwar to Govindghat
From Dehradun, reach Haridwar and move further along to reach your base camp of Govindghat. You’ll need to travel along the beautiful Alaknanda river on the Badrinath Highway. The roads are steep and cut dangerously, so if you’re driving on your own, BE VIGILANT! Especially during the monsoon season, when this trek is in-season, the rivers might be overflowing. The drive from Haridwar will take you around 11 hours.
Day 2: Trek from Govindghat to Ghanghariya
The trek begins. On your first day, you’ll drive to Poolna (4 KMs), and then you’ll be covering about 9 KM of distance, and this should take you about 6 hours. The trail is well defined, and usually, you’ll spot a lot of Sikh pilgrims. The entire trek is beside the river, and there are multiple dhabas along the way, serving lip-smacking food. The gurudwara offers free accommodation and food.
Day 3: Trek from Ghanghariya to Valley of Flowers and Back
You may leave Ghanghariya as early as possible, 6 AM is ideal. You will need to buy an entry ticket for the Valley of Flowers (INR 200 per person for Indian nationals as of 2026). The well laid out trail metamorphoses into a small footway along the side of the valley. The journey will take you around 6 hours total with 3.5 KM one way.
Once you reach the valley, enjoy the carpet of colors as far and wide as you can imagine, a splattering of yellow, blue, red, pink, green, and everything in between! Some common flowers in the region are Himalayan Rose, Blue Poppy, River Anemone, White Leaf Hog Foot, Meadow Geranium, Hooked Stick Seed, and Dog Flower.
Day 4: Trek Back to Govindghat from Ghanghariya
Before heading back, it is strongly advised that you also cover the Hemkund Sahib, which will add another day and 6 hours of a trek to your journey. However, if you choose to go back, then the journey will take you around 4 hours. Carry sufficient water with yourself for the journey.
Day 5: Drive Back to Rishikesh from Govindghat
Get back to Rishikesh and ponder on your next big destination (or even spend some time exploring Rishikesh and its adventures).
Many myths surround the beautiful valley, including that some people faint by the onslaught of fragrance, which is so intense. Take such sayings with a grain of salt. Although you should be aware that the intensity of the place is legit! It is an explosion for the senses.
Essential Tips for Trekking in Uttarakhand
- Do not go without a guide on any trek unless you have a lot of experience in climbing mountains. Mountains can be harsh sometimes and that’s why you need a guide.
- Use proper trekking gear while doing any trek. In the case of bad weather, even the gear can be very much helpful.
- Always carry some extra water and food while trekking because the weather is always uncertain in the mountains.
- Do not litter waste in the mountains. Be a responsible trekker and keep these mountains clean and beautiful.
- Carry a basic first-aid kit with band-aids, Diamox (for altitude), painkillers, and ORS packets.
- Trek operators for these beginner treks typically charge between INR 5,000-12,000 per person (2026 rates), which includes camping gear, meals, guide, and permits.
- Always carry your original government-issued photo ID, as forest checkpoints require it.
Wrapping Up: Which Beginner Trek Should You Pick?
If you want to have a slow life where you just want some time of your own, then trek to any of these mountains, and I bet you’ll feel much better. You will be amazed by the beauty of the Himalayas that you will not stop yourself from trekking again.
My recommendation? If you have only a weekend, go for Naag Tibba. If you have 5-6 days and want a winter snow experience, go for Kedarkantha. If meadows and flowers are your thing, pick Dayara Bugyal in summer or Valley of Flowers in monsoon. And if you want the best all-round experience with a mix of lakes, forests, and summit views, the Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek is hard to beat.
If you know your friends or family are planning a trek to Uttarakhand, do share this article with them to help them make a memorable trip. For queries, finding travel partners, or sharing your experience, feel free to join our DwD Community from the link in the main menu. You can also check the offbeat places in Uttarakhand for your next adventure 🙂
Last Updated: March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the easiest trek in Uttarakhand for complete beginners?
Naag Tibba is the easiest trek in Uttarakhand for complete beginners. It is a 2-day trek covering just 8 km with a maximum elevation of 9,914 Ft. The trail is well-defined, acclimatization is not a concern at this altitude, and you can do it over a weekend from Delhi. The total budget is around INR 4,000-5,000 from Dehradun.
What is the best time to trek in Uttarakhand?
The best time for trekking in Uttarakhand is May to June and September to October. Spring (March-April) brings blooming rhododendrons, summer opens high-altitude meadows, and autumn offers the clearest views. Winter (December-February) is excellent for snow treks like Kedarkantha and Chandrashila. The Valley of Flowers is a monsoon-only trek (July-August).
Do I need a permit for trekking in Uttarakhand?
Yes, most treks in Uttarakhand require a forest permit from the Uttarakhand Forest Department. The permit fees range from INR 150-200 per person for Indian nationals and higher for foreign nationals. For the Valley of Flowers, you need a separate entry ticket (INR 200/person/day for Indians). Always carry your original government-issued photo ID as checkpoints will ask for it.
Can I do these treks without a guide?
While Naag Tibba has a fairly well-marked trail that experienced trekkers can follow independently, I strongly recommend hiring a local guide for all beginner treks. The guide typically costs INR 800-1,500 per day and knows the trails, weather patterns, and emergency routes. For treks like Dayara Bugyal and Kedarkantha, a guide is practically essential, especially in winter when snow can hide the trail.
How fit do I need to be for these beginner treks?
You need basic fitness for these treks. If you can jog 3-4 km without stopping and climb 4-5 floors of stairs without feeling breathless, you should be able to handle Naag Tibba and Deoriatal comfortably. For Kedarkantha and Dayara Bugyal, start a simple cardio routine (walking, jogging, or cycling) at least 3-4 weeks before the trek. No prior trekking experience is needed, but stamina matters more than strength.
How much does a beginner trek in Uttarakhand cost in 2026?
A beginner trek in Uttarakhand costs between INR 4,000 and INR 12,000 depending on the trek, duration, and whether you go with an operator or independently. Naag Tibba is the cheapest at around INR 4,000-5,000. Kedarkantha and Dayara Bugyal cost INR 8,000-11,000. Valley of Flowers runs INR 9,000-12,000. These budgets include transport from Dehradun, food, camping, and permits. Trek operators charge INR 5,000-12,000 per person which covers camping gear, meals, guide, and permits.
Is Dayara Bugyal trek open in 2026?
Yes, Dayara Bugyal is open for trekking in 2026. While the Uttarakhand High Court’s 2018 order banned camping on certain alpine meadows (bugyals), Dayara Bugyal is currently permitted under guidelines. However, Roopkund trek remains closed under this order. Keep in mind that regulations can change, so always verify with the local forest department or your trek operator before booking.
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Bhai Saab this is a helpful article for the beginners, who can’t decide where to go. Love your well described blogs. All the very best.
Thank you so much Mahan bhai 🙂