Assam : Trekking

Assam is also famous for Trekking. North-Cachar Hills and Karbi Hills provide ample scope for Trekking. There is a recognised trekking route in both the districts.

Himachal Pradesh : Trekking

The main trekking areas in Himachal are the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges, routes over the passes between the Shimla region and the Kullu valley, the numerous treks out of Kullu and select tracks in the Trans-Himalyan regions of Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti. Most trekking areas are between 1500 metres and 6000 metres.

With well over two hundred and seventy defined trails, the variation in terrain is also enormous. Low scrub-land and paths through paddy fields, give way to trails strewn with pine needles. Then come woods of oak and flowering rhododendron, which merge into forest of Himalyan cedar - 'deodar' - and spruce. On most trails, small pastoral hamlets dot the way. Cunningly hidden between the high mountains are passes which were once known only to migrant shepherds and dare all traders. These lead to the fabulous wastes and swift rivers of the arid Trans-Himalya. A host of combinations and variations take the trails through changing countryside. The degree of physical output can also be changed to suit your requirements. For example, the same trek can be developed from a week to last longer. Or, the two ends of a trek can be the same, but the trails can be designed to be taxing, or gentle.

There are several agencies that conduct treks. Guides, equipment, porters, pack animals and maps are available at major starting points. The old Forest 'dak bunglows' that are strategically placed along many trek routes, add a considerable measure of nostalgic charm and convenience for trekkers. Practically all have an aura of the past, and lie nestled in deep woods. In addition, the State Electricity Board and the PWD also have rest houses. Most of these are marked out on trekking maps and advance booking is possible. The Forest Rest Houses are booked by the area's Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and the PWD and Electricity Board ones are booked by the concerned Executive Engineer.

Training facilities, with basic and intermediate courses are available at Manali's (Kullu) Mountaineering Institute and at its Regional centres at Dharamsala (Kangra) and Bharmour (Chamba). Excellent camping facilities exists at these points.

Uttranchal : Trekking

At a relex level, trekking is a physical challenge: a simple desire to pick a path and measure up to the terrain and the elements. The adventure component adds the spice of uncertainty, raising the stakes for you to test yourself in unfamiliar territory.

On a deeper level, trekking is a bridge between ancient lifestyles: the fixed vision of a settler counterbalanced by the transient motion of a nomad. As an evolution from a simple walk into a more self sufficient venture, trekking requires simplification, a reduction to portable basics, and implicit trust in your ability to define what you need to live.

The Garhwal Himalayas are trekker's delight. Come … explore them with us.