Trekking in India - 11 Amazing expeditions by National Youth Hostels India

National Youth Hostels Association of India (NYHAI) is a pioneering organization that was established in 1970s. True to their mission - promote travel, tourism, adventure spirit, national integration and Education & Health -NYHAI arranges a variety of trekking expeditions specially in the Northern India and Himalayan ranges. Here is the good news! Major season of trekking expeditions of NYHAI starts from July, there is plenty of time to enroll into one of their trekking programs which is cost effective. So, here is the list of 10 amazing 10 Amazing trekking expeditions organized by NYHAI starting from July 2017.

1. Trekking Expedition Valley of Flowers Uttarakhand 2017

Valley of flowers is a national park located in Uttarakhand state of India. Valley of flowers is also a UNESCO Wold heritage site in India. During the starting the spring season,  a  wide variety of flowers blooms in the valley and it is heavenly! Valley of flowers located near to the small village named Ghangaria.

The trek to Valley of flowers arranged by NYHAI is an 8 days, 9 nights program. The cost for the entire trekking program is around 7000 Indian Rupees. There are multiple batches starting from 15th July 2017, and the seats are fast filling.

Valley of flowers Garhwal Uttarakhand_India
 By Alosh Bennett (Flickr: valley of flowers) [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

The trek also covers the famous Hemakunt Sahib - a pristine Sikh Gurudwara located near the Valley of flowers. The specialty of  Hemakunt Sahib is that, it is inaccessible from the September to April every year as heavy snowfall blocks the path. Only during the rare occasion from July  and August this temple opens for devotees and trekkers.

Hemakunt Sahib Shrine - Uttarakhand

The base camp of the trek is  Rishikesh and the total distance covered is 45km over the period of 8 days. Check the end of the article to get more information about the trek plan, schedule, booking seats and other information.

2 .  Kumbhalgarh trekking through the Aravalli ranges - Rajasthan

Soak in history, adventure and nature with this unique trekking experience to  Kumbhalgarh fort in Rajasthan. The trek passes through the Aravalli mountain ranges of Rajasthan. The lush greenery in the region would come to you as surprise as Rajasthan is known to be a dry land of deserts. That is the thing about India, it would never cease to surprise you! Kumbhalgarh fort is included in the UNESCO World heritage sites. Not many know that the Kumbhalgarh fort has the second longest wall in the world, which comes right after the great wall of China. Kumbhalgarh fort also is the pride birth place of Maharana Pratap- the famous ruler of Mewar.

Kumbhalgarh fort
By Rahul Patnaik (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Another important destination during the trek is the amazing Jain temple of Ranakpur. The Jain temple in Ranakpur was built around 1437 CE it is an important destination for devotees and tourists as well.
The intricate carvings on the walls and roof would make you awestruck! The construction is completely done in white marble and proclaim the riches of Indian empires before the European invasion. The trek also give you a hint of the local culture and traditions of Rajasthan, helps you meet the people and understand their heritage.

Ranakpur  Jain Temple
By Nagarjun Kandukuru (Flickr: Chaumukha Jain temple at Ranakpur) [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

The schedule for this trek is from 2nd November to 6th November 2016 and the total cost is 4200 Indian Rupees. The participants are requested to report at the Ranakpur base camp in Pali, Rajasthan. It is a moderate hard trek of 40km spread across 5 days.

3. Meghalaya Trekking and Caving Expedition

It is the dream of every traveler to back pack through the amazing hillocks of Meghalaya. The north-eastern Indian state. The name Meghalaya mean the abode of clouds. This YHAI trek is one of its kind as it takes you through the variety of terrains and brings you rarest sights. One of the main things to look for during this trek is the sighting of the rare Amur Falcon birds. Later the trek takes you to Cherrapunjee - known to be the wettest place on earth. The trek covers some of the waterfalls in the region

A beautiful waterfall near Cherrapunjee
By Sayowais (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Another interesting aspect of this trek is the caving experience. Meghalaya is famous for its long winding caves, which present a new world in itself. The caving expedition takes the participants on a guided tour through these caves which is sometimes partially flooded. It is indeed an adventurous activity. 

Exploring the caves of Meghalaya
By Biospeleologist (F Simpson) [GFDL], via Wikimedia Commons

The wonders of this trek doesn't end there. It takes you to a very special village named Mawlynnong. It is acclaimed as the cleanest village in Asia. In the Mawlynnong village, you can also witness a wonder of mother nature - the tree root bridges. These are naturally grown out of the roots of banyan tree in the form of a hanging bridge across the river. This amazing expedition lasts for 8 days and starts from base camp in Shillong. There are only two batches of this expedition, one starts on 31st October and another in 1st November 2016. The total cost for the Meghalaya trekking expedition is 5800 Indian Rupees.

The natural root bridge
By Arshiya Urveeja Bose (Flickr) [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

4.  National Sea Beach Trekking Expedition – Odisha

Odisha- the eastern state of India is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches. The Odisha trekking program conducted by NYHAI provides the beach lovers a unique experience of trekking through the long coastal belt of Odisha. This leisurely trek through the Odisha country side starts from Puri and ends at Satapada.

Beautiful Puri beach
By Sambit 1982 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Another highlight of this trek is the Chilika lake. Which is the largest mildly salt water ( brackish water) lagoon in Asia. There is a rich variety of plants and animals to explore throughout the trek like the sea turtles and dolphins. The duration of this trekking program is for 7 days and total cost is 4050 Indian Rupees. The trek covers a total distance of 40km and starts from 18th December. There are multiple batches till 28th December 2016.

Chilika lake in Odisha
By Ckpcb (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

5. Himalayan Trekking Expedition - Stok Kangri Base Camp

Stok Kangri is one of the tallest peak in the Karakoram mountain range. It is situated in the Leh-Ladak region of India. This exquisite Himalayan expedition camp by NYHAI  extends for 9 and starts from the Skara Leh Base Camp. Stok Kangri is a breathtakingly beautiful snow capped peak. There are multiple trekking batches starting from 1st of July and there are plenty of seats available to book. The cost for this expedition is 7350 Indian Rupees. The trekkers need to find their own travel arrangements till the Leh base camp and from there on wards  NYAHI arranges Food, Boarding, Lodging, Equipment, Group Insurance, Forest entry and Trekking. Check the end of the article to get more information about the trek plan, schedule, booking seats and other information. 

View of Stok Kangri
By James Edward Ball (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons
 

6. National Desert Trekking Expedition 

This trekking expedition takes you through a very different geography of India - the Thar desert. The expedition starts at the Golden city of Jaisalmer where you can explore the historic Jaisalmer fort and the heritage of the Jain temples inside the fort. Also, there are rich havelis to explore like Patwon-Ki-Haveli.

The majestic Jaisalmer Fort         
Image Courtesy : From Flickr user kkoshy

Later the program takes you for a trek of 14km to one of the most famous sand dunes of Rajasthan - The Sam Sand dunes. The experience of trekking through the vast desert land is quite an experience and an adventure in itself. The trek also covers a camel safari in Beeda Fanta.  Total cost for this trekking expedition is 4725 Indian Rupees and the duration is for 6 days. The total distance covered on foot is 61km. The dates for this trekking starts from 2nd November to 7th November 2016.

The desert safari awaits the adventurer in you!

7. National Mountain Biking Expedition Leh – 2017

Is biking through the great Himalayas your cherished dream? Then this expedition by NYHAI is ideal for you. The cycling expedition starts from Leh in Ladak and include multiple rides to Skur Buchan, Sakar, Heniskot and Lamayuru. During this biking expedition you will pass through some of the most scenic areas of India and also will be able to experience the cultural diversity of India.

Mountain Biking 
Photo Courtesy: via Filckr User: Andy_C

 It is indeed a challenging yet, heavenly experience to cycle through the rough patches of upper Leh, which is still unspoiled by the crowds of tourists. The expedition Also takes you to the one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries(Gompa), the Lamayuru Monastery perched on the heights of the Karakoram mountain range.  Also this program let you pass through the  Fotu La Pass, one of the highest roads in the world. 

Lamayuru Monastery  - Ladakh
By Varun Chaudhri (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

It is a 9 day biking expedition that costs 8925 Indian Rupees per participant. NYHAI maintain strict rules for entering into this program. You must above 18years and  should produce a medical certificate in the form prescribed by NYHAI. The program starts from 1st August and there are multiple batches till 15th August. The mountain bikes will be provided by NYHAI.  All Participant must bring original photo identity proof as you might need to pass through multiple check posts. Check the end of the article to get more information about the trek plan, schedule, booking seats and other information.

8. Himalayan Trekking Expedition , Kashmir - Great Lakes

The beautiful Himalayan topography 
By Incomposition (Template:Ankit Mehta) [CC BY-SA 3.0 or GFDL], via Wikimedia Commons

Kashmir- Is indeed the heaven on earth with it's beautiful snow capped peaks and pristine lakes. This trekking expedition by NYHAI concentrate on the the emerald green lakes of Kashmir.

It is indeed a hidden gem of a trek, which takes you through the offbeat Kashmir to visit lakes like Vishnusar, Kishansar, Gadsar ,Satsar,Gangabal,Nandkol and also many other small lakes.
Most of these places are not routine tourist destinations and you are sure to feel one with nature during this 10 day trekking.

Gangabal Lake
By Mehrajmir13 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

The cost of this trekking program is 8400 which includes Food, Boarding, Lodging, Equipment, Group Insurance, Forest entry and Trekking guide charges. The participants should report at the Sonamarg Base Camp and should make their own arrangements to reach till this point. The total trek distance is 61km in the span of 10 days. It is a medium hard trekking program and anyone above 15 years of age can participate in it.

The first batch of trekking starts from August 5th and there are multiple batches till August 25th. Check the end of the article to get more information about the trek plan, schedule, booking seats and other information.

9. National Trekking Expedition - Goa 

This a very unique trekking expedition starting from the beaches of Goa and extends up to the  rugged Western Ghats. Starting from the Benaulim beach, this trek covers different terrains and culminate in the picturesque Dudhsagar falls. This program extends for 8 days and the total cost is 4200 Indian Rupees.

The trek also covers the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and beaches of southern Goa. The reporting point for this trekking expedition is in Panaji. Trek to Dudhsagar through the lush green forests of Western Ghats is a unique and challenging experience. The beach trekking programs starts from 15th December to 31st December 2016

By Akshayay1 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons

10. Himalayan Trekking Expedition -   Hampta Pass Trekking

Hampta Pass is a trekking path that connects the beautiful valleys of Kullu and Lahul  in Himachal Pradesh. It is an ideal trek for enjoying the beauty of the Himalayas. This trek is of special interest for those who love nature and enjoy different species of flora and fauna. The trek offers the views of alpine forests, sprawling meadows and glacial valleys.

View of Majestic Himalayas from Kullu Valley
http://www.flickr.com/photos/dainismatisons/ [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

NYHAI Hampta pass trekking starts from 15th August and there are batches till 14th September. The trek extends for 8 days and covers 48km through the Hampta pass. The base camp for this trek is at Manali. Check the end of the article to get more information about the trek plan, schedule, booking seats and other information.

11. National Family Adventure Camping Srinagar

Did you think the trekking and adventure are only for nomadic souls? Then this trekking program by NYHAI would make you think twice. The Family adventure camp starts at the base camp Srinagar and is planned exclusively for families including husband, wife and children. There is no age limit for the children however preferred age is below 12. This rare adventure camp takes the participants through the beautiful Pahalgam valley with grass meadows and majestic views of Himalaya.

Grass meadows and the view of Pahalgam valley
Vinayaraj (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

The next destination in this trekking program is the enchanting Gulmarg. There is not better place to see the snow fall and for an adventure -joyride in the cable car to the top of the Apharwat summit. It is traditionally known as Gondolas. Multitude of activities like , tobogganing, snowboarding and heli-skiing are conducted in Gulmarg. It would be an ideal getaway with the family. The cost per family is only 5000 Indian Rupees and the program is for 4days. The schedule starts from September and October in 2016. The participants are supposed to report at the Srinagar base camp. Check the end of the article to get more information about the trek plan, schedule, booking seats and other information.

The cable car(Gondola) in Gulmarg passing through the snowy terrain
By Skywayman9 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Disclaimer: This post is purely of informational nature and I am not related to NYHAI in any way. To know more about the trekking programs,  booking and other information please visit the below links. The price and schedule for the trekking may change kindly be in touch with NYHAI.

National Himalayan Trekking Expedition Valley of Flowers Uttarakhand 2016

http://www.yhaindia.org/adventure-programme.php?id=288

NATIONAL HIMALAYAN TREKKING EXPEDITION STOK KANGRI BASE CAMP(16,338 FT) LEH LADAKH 201

http://www.yhaindia.org/adventure-programme.php?id=221&ty=s

National Mountain Biking Expedition Leh – 2016

http://www.yhaindia.org/adventure-programme.php?id=301&ty=s

NATIONAL HIMALAYAN TREKKING EXPEDITION KASHMIR GREAT LAKES- 2016

http://www.yhaindia.org/adventure-programme.php?id=245&ty=s

NATIONAL HIMALAYAN HAMPTA PASS TREKKING EXPEDTION 2016 - (MANALI-HP)

http://www.yhaindia.org/adventure-programme.php?id=231&ty=s

National Family Adventure Camping Srinagar 2017

http://www.yhaindia.org/adventure-programme.php?id=302&ty=s

National Sea Beach Trekking Expedition – Odisha 2016

http://www.yhaindia.org/adventure-programme.php?id=256&ty=s

NATIONAL TREKKING EXPEDITION- GOA 2017

http://www.yhaindia.org/adventure-programme.php?id=328&ty=s

Kumbhalgarh trekking through the Aravalli ranges - Rajasthan

 http://www.yhaindia.org/adventure-programme.php?id=236&ty=s