Offbeat Himalayan Treks you’ve probably never heard of (Part 1)

Finding hidden Himalayan treks has turned into a tedious task over the past 2–3 decades. As high-altitude adventures grow more popular, trekkers have increasingly overcrowded the Himalayas. From treks in India like the Kashmir Great Lakes to Everest Base Camp in Nepal, the same condition prevails across regions. Thousands of trekkers flock to these popular destinations each season. This not only disrupts the trekking experience but also triggers serious ecological concerns. These rising numbers now stand out more clearly. They can be measured more accurately than ever.
Because of this, many mountain enthusiasts now avoid popular trails. They seek the peace of lesser-known paths instead.

D you happen to be one such person? Then this blog is for you ! These 10 offbeat/hidden Himalayan treks should make it to your bucket list.

Offbeat Himalayan treks in India

1. Lamkhaga Pass Trek (Himachal–Uttarakhand)

One of the most remote and challenging treks in the Indian Himalayas, this route connects Chitkul (Himachal) to Harsil (Uttarakhand) via Lamkhaga Pass (5,280 m). The trail includes moraine fields, glacial traverses, and stark alpine wilderness.

• Grade: Difficult. Requires excellent fitness, experienced guides, and permits.
• Distance: 90 to 100 kms
• Max Elevation: 5280 m
• Season: May – June & September to October.

2. Parang La Pass (Ladakh)

One of the most remote and challenging treks in the Indian Himalayas, this route connects Chitkul (Himachal) to Harsil (Uttarakhand) via Lamkhaga Pass (5,280 m). The trail includes moraine fields, glacial traverses, and stark alpine wilderness.

• Grade: Difficult. Requires excellent fitness, experienced guides, and permits.
• Distance: 12 to 130 kms
• Max Elevation: 5500 m
• Season: Mid July to September.

3. Pangarchulla Peak via Lord Curzon Trail (Uttarakhand)

This spectacular trek from Joshimath combines the historic Lord Curzon Trail with a summit climb to Pangarchulla Peak (4,700 m). Over 6–8 days, the route ascends through oak forests, alpine meadows, and panoramic ridgelines overlooking Nanda Devi and Dronagiri.

• Grade: Moderate to Difficult. The summit push in snow requires good conditioning and some high-altitude experience.
• Distance: 45 kms
• Max Elevation: 4700 m
• Season: April to June & September to November.

4. Debsa Pass Trek (Himachal Pradesh)

Connecting the lush Parvati Valley with the cold deserts of Spiti, this hidden trail takes about 7–8 days. The trek involves river crossings, moraine sections, and a pass crossing at around 5,300 m.

• Grade: Difficult. Requires glacier travel experience and wilderness navigation — ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking true isolation.
• Distance: 60 kms
• Max Elevation: 5300 m
• Season: June to September.

5. Kugti Pass Trek (Himachal Pradesh)

Tucked deep into Chamba’s Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary, this 6–7 day trek crosses the Kugti Pass (5,050 m) linking Bharmour to the Lahaul region. Remote shepherd settlements, sacred temples, and sweeping alpine meadows define the route.

• Grade: Moderate to Difficult. Best for trekkers with prior experience and a taste for off-grid travel.
• Distance: 60 kms
• Max Elevation: 5050 m
• Season: June to September.

Offbeat Himalayan treks in Nepal

1. Tsum Valley Trek (Manaslu Region)

This spiritual journey through the remote Tsum Valley stretches over 100+ kilometers spanning over 10–14 days. It diverges from the Manaslu Circuit near Lokpa and explores ancient monasteries, yak herder camps, and Tibetan-influenced stone villages.

• Grade: Moderate. The trail isn’t technical but does require stamina and a special restricted-area permit.
• Distance: 120 kms
• Max Elevation: 3700 m
• Season: June to September.

2. Phoksumdo Lake Trek (Lower Dolpo, Nepal)

This 7–9 day trek starts from Juphal (reachable by flight from Nepalgunj) and leads to the pristine turquoise waters of Phoksumdo Lake (3,611 m) in Dolpo. The trail passes through remote Thakuri and Bon villages and lush pine forests.

• Grade: Moderate. Isolated but not technically difficult, it offers a rare glimpse into untouched Tibetan culture.
• Distance: 60 kms
• Max Elevation: 3611 m
• Season: March to May and October November.

3. Nar Phu Valley Trek (North of Annapurna)

A rarely visited region tucked behind the Annapurna massif, this 9–12 day trek takes you to the hidden valleys of Nar and Phu, with dramatic gorges and cliff-hugging villages. Crossing the Kang La Pass (~5,300 m) adds to the adventure.

• Grade: Moderate to Difficult. Requires a restricted area permit and good fitness.
• Distance: 80 kms
• Max Elevation: 5300 m
• Season: March to May and October November.

4. Mardi Himal Trek (Annapurna Region)

One of Nepal’s best-kept secrets, this 4–5 day trail climbs to Mardi Himal Base Camp (~4,500 m) via rhododendron forests and alpine ridgelines. Ideal for trekkers short on time, it offers close-up views of Machapuchare and the Annapurna range.

• Grade: Easy to Moderate
• Distance: 40 kms
• Max Elevation: 4500 m
• Season: March to May and October November.

5. Khopra Ridge Trek (Annapurna Region)

A stunning alternative to the busy Ghorepani circuit, this 6–7 day trek ascends to the panoramic Khopra Ridge (~3,660 m) and optionally to Khayer Lake (~4,500 m). Views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Nilgiri dominate the skyline.

• Grade: Moderate. Teahouse-based but less frequented than its neighboring trails.
• Distance: 55 kms
• Max Elevation: 4500 m
• Season: March to May and October November.

Parting Thoughts

In an era where popular Himalayan trails face the brunt of over-tourism, these offbeat treks offer a rare opportunity to reconnect with nature in its rawest form. Whether you crave alpine solitude, spiritual depth, or the thrill of remote wilderness, the hidden corners of India and Nepal have something extraordinary to offer. So if you’re ready to trade crowds for quiet trails, let these lesser-known adventures lead the way. Your next unforgettable journey might just lie off the beaten path.