For adventure seekers who want to reach new heights as much as explore the unknown, trekking in the Himalayas has emerged as one of the top experiences. There are numerous treks which are part of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh during the autumn season. Selecting the best Himalayan treks in September, November, and December, when the post-monsoon season has just begun, requires thorough research.

Before beginning a Himalayan trek, careful planning is essential. Hence, it’s critical to understand why one should choose the autumn season. I am aware that the mud on the paths is still slippery and there is a risk of landslides, though I think the trekkers are missing out on a lot by not taking advantage of this season.  After the rain has cleared all the dust, the air is fresh including the lofty mountain ranges, which are slightly foggy during the monsoon and covered in clouds throughout the winter. In December, many people rush to go on snow treks, nevertheless, the autumn season is the perfect time to take pictures of beautiful green scenery.

For those who are starting their trekking journey in the autumn season in the mighty Himalayas, I have compiled a list of some of our best Himalayan treks between September and December.

1. Kuari Pass Trek

Region: Joshimath, Uttarakhand
Duration: 5 Nights /6 Days
Grade: Easy – Easy to Moderate

Kuari Pass Trek

From Joshimath, a city in the Chamoli District, the Kuari Pass Trek begins (Uttarakhand). From Rishikesh, the trek takes six days, including travel time. The total Kuari Pass trek distance is 33 km from Dhak Village which serves as the base camp of Nomad Adventures.  Lord Curzon’s path explored in the British era, is also known as Kuari Pass.

The Kuari trek route offers you the enchanting views of Dronagiri, Chitrakantha, Chaukhamba and the grand pious peak of Nanda Devi. From the Kuari pass peak, you can enjoy mesmerising views of Dronagiri, Chitrakantha, Chaukhamba, and the enormous, revered mountain of Nanda Devi.

The walk is like walking on a red carpet when the leaves have fallen from the bushes. I’m proud to share that during my October visit to this trek, I had a mind-blowing experience while soaking in the beautiful landscapes against a vibrant natural backdrop.

More details here: Kuari Pass Trek

2. Kedarkantha Trek

Region: Sankri village, Uttarakhand
Duration: 5 Nights /6 Days
Grade: Easy – Easy to Moderate

Kedarkantha trek is an easy-to-moderate-level trek and is good for first-timers too. Before commencing the trek, you need to maintain a rigorous fitness regimen for you to be physically and emotionally prepared. Kedarkantha is a mountain peak in the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India. Its elevation is 12,500 ft. This is one of the rare treks where you will find clear skies and beautiful campsite locations. Every step taken on the journey to the summit is highly gratifying due to the incredibly beautiful surroundings.

It is one of the best treks in India not only for the lush peaks and invigorating routes but also for the opportunity to savour the local Pahari cuisine.

It has recently grown in popularity among hikers as one of the best snow treks. This excursion attracts a lot of climbers in the winter. But if you want to enjoy the ideal autumn trip in the Himalayas and avoid the crowds and stunning scenery, Kedarkantha should be at the top of your list. When starting any trek, you should be aware of the terrain’s difficulty and the prevailing weather. Timing is key, so be sure to prepare in advance if you want to enjoy your trek.

More details here: Kedarkantha Trek

3. Brahmatal Trek

Region: Lohajung, Uttarakhand
Duration: 6 Days
Grade: Easy – Easy to Moderate

The Brahmatal trek offers brilliant views of Mt. Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Maiktoli, Mrigthuni, and many other mountain peaks. There are myriad reasons why the trek is one of the best Himalayan treks in December, but in the autumn, it simply takes on a different hue. The alluring mountain peaks will transport you to a different world altogether.

The Brahmatal trek takes 6 days to complete, including the drive from Kathgodam or Rishikesh, and it is 30 kilometres from Lohajung. 

More details here: Brahmatal Trek

4. Bhrigu Lake Trek

Region: Kulang village, Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 2 Nights/ 3 Days
Grade: Easy – Easy to Moderate

The Bhrigu Lake Trek starts in the Himachal Pradesh hamlet of Kulang. The trip from Manali to the summit takes three days. The entire Bhrigu Lake Trek distance from Moridugh is 25 kilometres. Although it is rated as the easiest hike in the Himalayas, the beauty and peace it gives are treasured. An impressive feature of the clean Bhrigu Lake is a glacier lake with changing hues throughout the year. It is amazing to see the varied vegetation bringing colour to every step after the rain has stopped. Undoubtedly, a significant number of individuals prefer to go on winter hikes, but once they experience the camaraderie of the mountains in the post-monsoon season, their perspectives will be completely changed.

One of the best treks in Himachal for beginners and those seeking a weekend alpine escape is this one. Due to the favourable temperatures, we may anticipate, this trek is suitable for kids over the age of seven from September to December.

More details here: Bhrigu Lake Lake 

5. Har Ki Dun Trek- Valley of Gods

Region: Sankri Village, Uttarakhand
Duration: 6 Nights/ 7 Days
Grade: Easy – Moderate

The best time to undertake the Har Ki Dun trek is from September to December. Har ki Dun Trek is a 7-day hike, including transport from Dehradun. The distance from Sankri Village to Har ki Dun is a total of 44 km. Many trekkers are attracted to this trek by the pristine valleys of the Garhwal Himalayas, which exhibit some magnificent vistas of Uttrakhand. Views of the towering Himalayan peaks, including Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, and many others, are among this trek’s main highlights.

For both experienced and novice hikers, a post-monsoon trek to the Har Ki Doon valley is highly recommended. The Har ki Dun trek in October offers a variety of hues from the forest, meadows, and diverse landscapes.

More details here: Har Ki Dun Trek

6. Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek

Region: Lohajung, Uttarakhand
Duration: 5 Nights /6 Days
Grade: Easy – Moderate

Ali Bedni Bugyal trek is the epitome of meadows and the picturesque campsites with the backdrop of massive Himalayan peaks make a perfect combination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The Ali Bedni Bugyal trek is located in the Chamoli region of the Indian state of Uttarakhand, at an elevation of 3,354 metres. Bedni Bugyal falls on the way to Roopkund, near Wan village. From here, one can see Mt. Nanda Ghunti and Trisul.

The pleasant weather is unquestionably one of the best reasons to exercise in the autumn. With a few stops along the way, this walk can be completed without too much difficulty.

More details here: Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek 

7. Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Region: Gangotri, Uttarakhand
Duration: 6 Nights /7 Days
Grade: Moderate – Difficult

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The term “Gaumukh,” which translates to “cow’s mouth,” was given to it by the sages because of the way that it opens up. Many sages can be found meditating in the caves near Tapovan, an alpine meadow. Observe Mt. Shivling and the stunning Bhagirathi peaks throughout the trek.  This hike is incredibly rewarding and is among the best Himalayan treks in India. You will be enchanted by its magnificence if you delve deeply into its roots and history. Many individuals come to walk here more than once during their lifetime, moreover, the entire route exudes a sense of spirituality and deep connection.

After reaching the Gaumukh national park, you must produce the Gaumukh trek permit. The best part is that officials count the number of plastic objects you bring in and need you to bring them back out again when you leave, otherwise they will impose a steep fine. The mountains may be protected from danger in the best possible way by doing this.

People often consider this trek during summer, generally when they want to escape to the mountains, away from the scorching heat. When people look for the best treks in May, this trek is at the top of the list. However, given that we now have a plethora of options to view the Himalayas from a variety of perspectives, I assume you chose to trek there after the rainy season.

More details – Gaumukh Trek 

8. Bali Pass Trek

Region: Sankri, Uttarakhand
Duration:7 Nights/ 8 Days
Grade: Moderate – Difficult

The Bali Pass trek will make your excursion a once-in-a-lifetime experience as a result it is packed with adventures and breathtaking sights. The trip begins in the town of Sankri and concludes at Janki Chatti. 

Only trekkers with prior Himalayan trekking experience in the Himalayas are advised to attempt it. This valley is at an altitude of approx. 3500m above sea level and is snow-covered from October to March. It is amazing to see the variety of alpine flowers along the riverbed. Bali Pass is a challenging trek, with an impressive 16,076 feet from the base.

The routes through the orange pine forest and the sparkling sunshine striking the snow-capped summits render this trek a full-fledged adventure.

More details here: Bali Pass Trek 

Did we miss any best Himalayan treks which should be on the list, write it down in the comments below.

Must read:  Top treks in Himachal which you should do!