Best State for Hiking in India: Top Trails, Terrain, and Tips

When it comes to hiking in India, a wide range of mountainous and forested landscapes that offer trails for all fitness levels. Also known as trekking in India, it’s not just about walking—it’s about climbing through ancient forests, crossing high-altitude passes, and sleeping under stars in places few tourists ever see. The country doesn’t have one single best state for hiking—it has several, each with its own flavor of adventure.

The Himalayas, a massive mountain range stretching across northern India and home to some of the world’s most challenging treks make states like Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh top contenders. In Uttarakhand, trails like Valley of Flowers and Roopkund pull in serious hikers with wild alpine meadows and glacial lakes. Himachal’s Hampta Pass and Pin Valley offer rugged terrain with fewer crowds. Then there’s South India, a region with lush green hills, misty plateaus, and ancient forest trails that feel worlds away from the northern peaks. Karnataka’s Kodagu and Tamil Nadu’s Ooty deliver cool, wet hikes through coffee plantations and shola forests. Even Goa’s hidden trails, like those near Netravali, surprise visitors with jungle paths and waterfalls.

What makes one state better than another? It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want high altitude and snow-capped peaks, go north. If you prefer green, humid trails with fewer permits and lower costs, head south. The Western Ghats, a UNESCO-listed mountain chain running along India’s west coast and packed with biodiversity alone covers parts of Kerala, Karnataka, and Maharashtra—and it’s one of the most underrated hiking zones in the country. You won’t find K2 here, but you’ll find solitude, rare birds, and trails that feel untouched.

Most of the posts in this collection focus on real travel experiences—whether it’s comparing North and South India, finding the safest places to trek, or understanding what makes certain routes stand out. You’ll find guides on where to go when, what gear to pack, and how to avoid common mistakes. No fluff. No generic lists. Just practical details from people who’ve walked these trails.

So if you’re planning your next hike, don’t just pick the most famous name. Look at the terrain, the season, the crowd, and the local support. The best state for hiking isn’t the one with the highest peak—it’s the one that matches your pace, your goals, and your sense of adventure.