It is a known fact that we humans are social animals and most often than not, we like to spend our time around other people, whether they are our family or our close friends. When it comes to trekking, people mostly venture out with their group of friends or colleagues to enjoy the beauty of nature high up in the various mountain ranges of the world. However, there are still many people who like to go on solo treks to push themselves beyond their limits and also experience complete peace of mind. In this article, I am going to talk about three best solo treks in India which you can attempt over a weekend.
Advantages of Solo Treks
Before I start talking about the best weekend solo treks, it would be beneficial to know the major advantages of solo trekking. Contrary to popular belief solo treks are very rewarding in multiple ways and offers a completely different experience to the trekkers. I have listed out some of the advantages of solo trekking below:
- Ample time to spend with ourselves: Solo treks provide a good opportunity to spend time with ourselves away from the hustles of daily life and you can also enjoy complete peace of mind at the same time.
- Move at your own pace: While hiking in a group, you always have to keep up with the pace at which your group is moving forward but in case of solo trekking, there is no such limit and you are free to alter your pace as per your liking.
- Challenge: In a solo trek, you can challenge yourself to trek faster, farther or for a longer duration of time than you are used to. This way, you can gain more experience and also cross your barriers.
- Conquer your fears: While many of us have fears of different kinds like height, darkness, storms, wild animals, etc, a solo trek provides an excellent opportunity to conquer them as the complete responsibility of the trek rests on ourselves.
Best Weekend Solo Treks in India: Top 3
Solo trekking has become quite popular in India in the last few years. The younger generation especially is more inclined to traveling alone to enjoy nature's beauty and also explore the various trekking trails all on their own. If you too love traveling alone then you can attempt any of these three solo treks which can be completed in a weekend (2-3 days).
1. Nag Tibba
Nag Tibba trek leads to the highest peak of the Nag Tibba range of the Garhwal Mountains also known as the Lesser Himalayas. A round trip takes about three days from Delhi and it is suitable for people looking for a break from the daily work routine.
Major Highlights: The Nag Tibba peak provides a magnificent view of Bandarpoonch, Kedarnath, and Chanabang, the three popular snow peaks of the Garhwal mountain range. Apart from that, the trek route also passes through exotic regions which provides a pleasant experience to the eyes.
Things to Carry
- 20-30 liter capacity backpack
- Trekking boots
- Warm clothing which includes down jackets, woolen inners, trek pants and two collared t-shirts
- Hand gloves
- Accessories like sunglasses and torch
- First Aid kit
2. Beas Kund
Beas Kund is a very popular short trek near the town of Manali, Himachal Pradesh. The trek takes you to the origin of the Beas River, one of the five northern rivers of India. The trek duration is of three days and it can be attempted by anyone as the difficulty level is moderate without any challenging terrains to negotiate.
Major Highlights: The trek provides a great view of Beas Kund, which is a high altitude alpine lake and is the source of the Beas River. Additionally, you can also clearly see popular peaks like Hanuman Tibba, Friendship Peak and the Seven Sisters on your way. You also get the chance to experience the spectacular sight of the Beas Kund glacier which is over 1000 years old.
Things to Carry
- 50-liter capacity backpack
- Clothing items like trek pants, woolen jackets, thermal inners, full sleeve T-shirts and hand gloves
- Trekking boots or sandals
- Rain Jackets
- Accessories like torch, sunglasses and water bottle
- Trekking pole
- First Aid kit
3. Chandrakhani Pass Trek
Chandrakhani Pass trek is one of the best short treks you can undertake to explore the beauty of Himachal Pradesh and also get a taste of the local culture of the people. The route passes through the beautiful Kullu valley which is a treat to the eyes and the total duration of the journey is only three days.
Major Highlights: Chandrakani Pass lies at n altitude of 3,660 meters in the Kullu valley and provides a spectacular view of the Pir Panjal and Deo Tibba peaks and the Parbati mountain range.
Things to Carry
- 50-liter capacity backpack
- Trekking boots
- Clothing items like full sleeve T-shirts, down sweaters, woolen scarf, thermal inners and hand gloves
- Light rain jackets
- Accessories like sunglasses, torch and water bottle
- First Aid kit
Safety Guidelines You Should Follow
Safety is of utmost importance in any trekking expedition. You may be aware that the mountains can be very unforgiving if you are not careful and one wrong move or measure that jeopardize your expedition completely. This is why you need to be aware of some basic safety guidelines whenever you venture out in the mountains. I have posted some of the basic safety tips to keep you safe and secure in the hills. Here is an infographic that I found suitable to keep these points in mind easily.
- Trek in daylight: You should always trek in broad daylight and avoid venturing out after nightfall. Trekking at night can lead to fatal injuries and you may also lose your way if you do have proper night navigational equipment.
- Never Compromise with Safety Tools: It is recommended to carry all the necessary safety tools and equipment and you also adhere to all local safety guidelines recommended by your trek leader or guide.
- Option to Set Up Fire: Fire can act as a lifesaver in extremely harsh and cold weather conditions and keep you warm. Although all these three treks mentioned above are not known for very harsh climates, you should still have plenty of options to set up a fire if necessary.
Wrap Up
Since India is a very large country and is the home of the Himalayan mountain range, there is no shortage of treks of varied difficulty level which you can undertake with your family and friends. I am sure that the three short solo treks that I have listed here will give you that much-needed break from the monotonous life in a weekend's time.
