| Whenever you find yourself succumbing to a
sense of ennui; whenever you're blue and things look glum- what do you do? If your answer to that question was an unequivocal "Go
trekking!", then this section's for you. Dedicated to the inimitable task of hauling
on heavy-duty shoes and heavier backpacks, of striking out into the great wild outdoors-
of going trekking. Hiking, walking the wilds, call it what you will, trekking is the best
way to see the world. If you really want to get a feel of the earth; if you really want to
walk through the forests and feel the breeze on your face; trudge through unspoilt
territory and explore for yourself- go trekking.
And if you're an Indian- or have come visiting- then three
cheers for that. Because this fabulous country offers some of the most awesome trekking
opportunities anywhere. All across, from north to south and from east to west, are a
series of breathtaking trekking trails, ranging from even-kiddies-can-manage to the
hardcore professional. Head for the Himalayas- for arid but gorgeously beautiful Ladakh
and Zanskar, if you're looking for adventure; or make tracks through Himachal Pradesh-
Lahaul, Kangra, Spiti, Kinnaur, and the Sangla Valley- for easier treks which take you
through stunning landscapes and quaint villages where time stands still.
Go hiking through Garhwal and Kumaon, to the clearest of
lakes and the holiest of Hindu shrines; or trek further south, where lie rolling hills,
craggy peaks and cool valleys, just waiting to be explored. Try your hand (and foot) in
the Satpuras near Pachmarhi, or go
to Tamilnadu, where the dreamy blue-misted hills of the Nilgiris make for great treks
through coffee, spice and tea plantations, dense forests and tribal villages. Strike base
at Ooty or Coonoor, and you can plan some great treks in the area.
That isn't all, of course: there are plenty of other treks
to try and to enjoy. The Sahyadris in Maharashtra; the hills around Shillong, Kalimpong,
and Gangtok; the Valley of Flowers- and so much more.
There's actually no end to the paths you can find, the
trails you can follow- or blaze.
Exciting trekking trails:
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