May Trails: 5 breathtaking treks in India to try this summer

As the sun blazes across India in May, turning cities into burning furnaces and plains into scorched lands, the mountains beckon with their cool breeze, lush green valleys, and breathtaking views. Trekking is not just about escaping the heat; it is about stepping outside of your comfort zone and immersing yourself in the raw beauty of these serene hill stations.
So this May, escape the heat of the plains and head to the mountains for an unforgettable experience in the wild. A look at top 5 trekking destinations in India:

Hampta Pass is an exhilarating trek that links the rich green Kullu Valley with the rugged Spiti Valley. With towering landscapes, serene, picturesque rivers, and fields of wildflowers, it presents a thrilling mix of the contrasts of nature. The best part is this trail is accessible in May, with snow still lingering on the routes, adding more to the charm of this beautiful trek.

A breathtaking winter trek provides 360-degree views of the mountain peaks covered in snow. The trek is shrouded under snow-covered woods and picturesque Himalayan villages. This trek is suitable for beginner trekkers. The trail takes you through the dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron, making it an ideal trek for adventure lovers and nature buffs alike.

Hidden away in the Garhwal Himalayas, the Roopkund Trek is one of India's most intriguing and exciting high-altitude treks. At the core of this path is Roopkund Lake, better known as Skeleton Lake because of the centuries-old human skeletons strewn about its glacial rim — a mystery that has confounded historians and adventurers alike. But the lake is just one reason why this experience will be impossible to forget. The trek to Roopkund takes you through thick oak and rhododendron cover, clear water streams, and isolated Himalayan villages before eventually unfolding into alpine grass meadows like Bedni Bugyal and Ali Bugyal — open grasslands aglow with early May sun.

This hike takes you to the stunning Tarsar and Marsar lakes, which are located in Kashmir's lush meadows. With their clear waters that reflect the sky, it is a serene, unspoiled location perfect for nature lovers and photographers. May is the ideal month to visit this wonderful trek, as the snow has just started to melt, creating twin lakes Tarsar and Marsar. The trek is of moderate difficulty, offering a peaceful environment and magnificent views.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Valley of Flowers is a magical monsoon trek in which lovely alpine flowers carpet the meadows. With endangered flora and cascading waterfalls, it's a trek as much like strolling through a dream. May marks the beginning of the blooming season in the Valley of Flowers. This trek is fantastic, offering views of snow-covered mountains and crystal-clear lakes.