Garhwal and Kumaon

The region of Garhwal and Kumaon is an excellent trekking area in northern Uttar Pradesh. Interesting treks include the one that follows the outer rim of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, the Kuari pass trek out of Joshimath, the trek to Rup Kund, which lies at the base of the 7120 m high Trisul, the route to the Pindari Glacier, south of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary and the trek to the Milam Glacier, east of the 7817 m high Nanda Devi, India's second highest peak.

Other treks to numerous pilgrimage places such as Badrinath, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, Gangotri (near the source of the Ganges) and Hem Kund, close to the Valley of the Flowers, are also possible. The best time to visit the Garhwal and Kumaon region is outside the monsoon period, but not in the winter, which leaves about 2œ months, 1œ from half May to July and another one between mid-September and mid-October. The town of Rishikesh is a good place to base yourself. Hotels, restaurants and other facilities are available there.