Trails in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand divides into Garhwal in the west and Kumaon in the east, and its routes run from Shivalik foothills to glaciated Himalayan passes. In Uttarkashi district, the Dayara Bugyal Trek from Raithal climbs through oak and rhododendron forest to broad alpine meadows, while the Bali Pass Trek crosses from the Ruinsara valley toward Yamunotri. The highest route here pushes beyond Gangotri and Tapovan beneath Shivling to Kalindi Khal at close to 5,900 m.

Chamoli offers classic high trails toward Roopkund, Kuari Pass and Rudranath. Road and off-road routes are just as ambitious: The Nelang Valley Expedition follows the Jadh Ganga into a stark trans-Himalayan valley near the Tibet border, and Tawaghat to Darma Valley climbs into the Pithoragarh border country. Gentler drives link Nainital's hill temples, as on Kainchi Dham to Kasar Devi.