Best Destinations for Spiritual Trekking in the Himalayas

Have you been looking for a combination of adventure, excursions, nature, and a spiritual getaway? If so, then there can be no better region than the mysterious Indian Himalayas.

Well, the Himalayan ranges are a mystery in themselves, attracting travelers with their stunning landscapes, glaciers, river valleys, and of course the snow-laden mountains. The beauty of the Himalayas compels not only adventure seekers to visit, but also those seeking self-discovery or a spiritual retreat in serene surroundings.

From Hindu temples to Buddhist monasteries, and from Gurudwaras to sacred lakes, the long spiritual walks in the Himalayas in India will not only allow you to obtain blessings, but also give you the opportunity to witness a variety of cultures.

Scroll down the list of 5 Himalayan spiritual hikes that will allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while growing spiritually.

Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash Trek: A Sacred Himalayan Trekking Experience to Attain Blessings from Lord Shiva

One of the most challenging pilgrimages in India, Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash Trek starts from the base point of the village of Jaon or Sinhgad in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh to the top of Shrikhand Mahadev, where the rocky Shivling is about 75 feet high. height. The hike takes about 20 miles on one side and will take you through a rocky moraine path, dense forests, and rugged ice caps. Shivling, when viewed from the front, has cracks and for this reason is named after Shri "KHAND" Mahadev. Being here is a magical moment, as the whole experience brings excitement along with waves of divine emotions amid dazzling views everywhere.

There are many legends behind Shrikhand Mahadev. According to Hindu mythology, the basmasura (a demon who was granted the ability to burn anyone by touching it with his hand) has been meditating for several years. Lord Shiva was pleased and gave him 'Bhasama Kangan' (Hidden Force). Due to pride and ego, Bhasamasura began to use the power of Lord Shiva. For this reason, Mahadev disappeared into the cave and then reappeared on top of a hill, currently known as Shrikhand Mahadev Peak. Legend also reveals that the Pandavas made a pilgrimage to Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash.

Amarnath Trek: A Holy Experience of Discovering the Treasure in the Himalayas

Another legendary hike in the Himalayas, Amarnath Cave Trek in Kashmir gives devotees a chance to visit the famous Lord Shiva cave. The hike covers rugged and challenging mountainous terrain to get a powerful view of the stalagmites formed within Amarnath Cave.

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Legends say that Lord Shiva chose this particular cave to tell the gods Parvati the secrets of life and death on his way to the cave. Although difficult to access, the secret was sacred, so in Pahalgam Nandi had to leave his journey, in Chandanwari he left the moon on his head, in Lake Sheshnag he left the snake around his neck, and in Panchtarni he left the five essentials . elements of the life he led, so he left his son, Lord Ganesha, on top of Mahaguna. Since then, devotees have started following the same trekking route to Amarnath Yatra.

Satopanth Lake Trek: A Short and Spiritual Hiking Experience to Take a Dip in the Holy Water

Being one of the highest elevation lakes in the Indian Himalayas, Lake Satopanth has great religious significance among the people. A trip to Satopanth Lake will allow you to enjoy the abundant natural beauty of snow-capped peaks, gushing rivers and streams, green hills covered in pine and oak trees, and much more that cannot be explained in words, but when viewed with the simple a sight, it can make you say "Wow". The journey begins in Mana, a remote town located approx. Badrinath 3 kilometers. However, the difficult part of the journey will begin after reaching Laxmi Van, heading to Chakratirtha, and finally reaching Satopanth Tal.

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The spiritual history of Satopanth Lake is quite remarkable, and there are many legends behind the lake that are considered religious. According to one, the Holy Trinity comprising Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva bathed in the lake and meditated here on a happy day. It is also believed, for this reason, that Satopanth Taal Lake is a triangular lake with crystal clear waters. Furthermore, according to the Mahabharata, through this lake, the five Pandava brothers and his wife Draupadi made their way to Swargarohini peak, the way to heaven.

Hemkund Sahib Trek: Attain Blessings Along with Relishing the Colourful Hues of the Valley of Flowers

Perched high up in the crystal clear waters of Hemkund, a hike will take you to the highest gurudwara, Hemkund Sahib, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. This spiritual and adventurous destination in India attracts not only Sikh pilgrims but also hiking enthusiasts in impressive numbers. The reason is that with Hemkund Sahib Trek, one can hike to the picturesque Valley of Flowers, hidden above the Nanda Devi National Park. Valley of Flowers will surely mesmerize you in the vast and colorful world.

The journey to Hemkund Sahib begins at Govindghat and continues to Ghangaria, a secluded place in the middle of a dense pine forest. Regarded as one of the best spiritual tours in India, the train to Hemkund Sahib will give you a chance to embrace Mother Nature at her best. From Ghangaria, set out to enjoy the colorful colors of the Valley of Flowers, one of the amazing places to visit in India. Hiking in this picturesque valley will put you face to face with rare species of flowers and a variety of butterflies, making it an ideal location for both photographers and adventure seekers.

Adi Kailash Trek: A Challenging Expedition to Bow Down the Heads In Front of Baba Kailash

Adi Kailash is another place that you can choose to spend your trekking holidays in India. It is located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, near the Indo-Tibetan border. Adi Kailash is known as Chota Kailash, Baba Kailash, Shiva Kailash, or Jonglingkong Peak. The road to Adi Kailash promises to take you to a truly amazing and wonderful land, a sight that will be etched in your heart, mind and soul. Adi Kailash Trek will offer you a panoramic view of the beautiful snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna, and will enliven your spiritual journey with dense forests, lush green meadows, and waterfalls.

The actual trek to Adi Kailash starts in Lakhanpur, which is reached after covering a distance of approx. 50 km from Dharcula. From there, the journey continues to Lamari, which is the next stop. After a night in Lamari, you will head towards Budi, where the hike becomes difficult as it gets quite steep. From Bode, the next stop will be Nabe, and from here you will head towards Namba to Koti village. After spending time in Kutti Village, the next step will be to head to Jollingkong via Sungchuma, where you will finally bow your head in front of Baba Kailash.

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