Great Himalayan Trail: Trekking Routes, Tips, and Must-Visit Stops in India

When you think of trekking in India, the Great Himalayan Trail, a continuous high-altitude footpath stretching over 1,700 miles across the Himalayas from west to east. Also known as GHT, it’s not just a trail—it’s a journey through some of the planet’s most remote and breathtaking mountain ecosystems. Unlike short weekend hikes, the Great Himalayan Trail is designed for serious trekkers who want to experience the full cultural and geographic diversity of the Himalayas—from the arid deserts of Ladakh to the lush forests of Sikkim.

This trail isn’t one single path but a network of connected routes, each offering something different. The western section near Kedarnath and Badrinath is steeped in spiritual history, where pilgrims and trekkers walk side by side. The central stretch through Nepal’s border regions in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh passes through villages untouched by modern roads, where tea is served in clay cups and yaks carry supplies. And the eastern end in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh opens up to alpine meadows, glacial rivers, and monasteries clinging to cliffs. You don’t need to hike the whole thing to get the magic—most travelers pick a 7- to 15-day segment that matches their fitness and time.

What makes the Great Himalayan Trail stand out isn’t just the views. It’s the people. You’ll meet Sherpas who’ve guided climbers for generations, monks who bless trekkers with prayer flags, and local women who run homestays with home-cooked dal and roti. The trail connects you to a way of life that hasn’t changed in centuries. And while you’ll need good gear, a solid fitness level, and altitude awareness, you don’t need a guide for every section—many routes are well-marked and supported by local tea houses.

Seasons matter here. The best time to walk is between April and June, or September and November. Winter brings snow that blocks passes, and monsoon season turns trails into mudslides. If you’re planning a trek, check local conditions—some areas like Spiti Valley open only after May, while others in Sikkim close during political unrest. Pack light but smart: thermal layers, a durable rain shell, and a water purifier. You won’t find ATMs on the trail, so carry enough cash in small denominations.

Behind every post in this collection is someone who walked a piece of this trail—whether they hiked from Gangotri to Kanchenjunga or just spent a week in the Annapurna foothills. You’ll find real stories about altitude sickness, unexpected hospitality, and the quiet moments when the mountains feel alive. There are tips on permits, gear lists, and how to avoid tourist traps disguised as "authentic" treks. Whether you’re planning your first Himalayan hike or you’ve already summited a few peaks, the posts here give you the unfiltered truth about what it’s really like out there.