Rugged Routes: Toughest Treks In Northeast

11 JUN 2024

Credit: Getty Images

Credit: Google Images

Goecha La Trek (Sikkim)

Difficulty: High Altitude: 16,200 feet Highlights: Stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Samiti Lake, and diverse flora and fauna. Challenges: Steep ascents, high altitudes, and unpredictable weather conditions.

Credit: Google Images

Sandakphu-Phalut Trek (West Bengal-Sikkim border)

Difficulty: Moderate to High Altitude: 11,929 feet Highlights: Panoramic views of four of the five highest peaks in the world (Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu), rich biodiversity. Challenges: Long distances, steep climbs, and varying weather.

Credit: Google Images

Dzongri Trek (Sikkim)

Difficulty: High Altitude: 13,123 feet Highlights: Spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga range, dense rhododendron forests. Challenges: Steep ascents, cold weather, and high altitude.

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Dzukou Valley Trek (Nagaland-Manipur border)

Difficulty: Moderate to High Altitude: 8,045 feet Highlights: The picturesque Dzukou Valley, known for its seasonal flowers, including the rare Dzukou lily. Challenges: Slippery trails, dense bamboo forests, and the need for proper navigation.

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Tawang Trek (Arunachal Pradesh)

Difficulty: High Altitude: 14,000 feet Highlights: Monasteries, high-altitude lakes, and the pristine beauty of Arunachal Pradesh. Challenges: Harsh weather conditions, high altitudes, and difficult terrain.

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Living Root Bridge Trek (Meghalaya)

Difficulty: Moderate to High Altitude: 2,400 feet Highlights: Unique living root bridges created by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes, lush green forests, and waterfalls. Challenges: Slippery and steep trails, high humidity, and monsoon rains.

Credit: Google Images

Namdapha National Park Trek (Arunachal Pradesh)

Difficulty: High Altitude: 4,500 feet Highlights: Biodiversity hotspot with a variety of wildlife including tigers, leopards, and red pandas, dense forests. Challenges: Remote and dense jungles, river crossings, and the need for a guide.

Credit: Google Images

Bailey Trail (Arunachal Pradesh)

Difficulty: Very High Altitude: 16,000 feet Highlights: Historical trail used by the British during World War II, views of Gorichen and Kangto peaks, remote villages. Challenges: Extremely remote, high altitude, challenging weather, and difficult terrain.

Credit: Google Images

Each of these treks offers a unique experience but requires thorough preparation, including physical fitness, proper gear, and sometimes local guides. The weather in Northeast India can be unpredictable, and the terrain is often rugged and remote, adding to the challenges.