Trekking is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the natural beauty of India. From the towering Himalayan ranges in the north to the lush Western Ghats in the south, India offers a wide array of trekking experiences. What makes trekking even more appealing is that it doesn’t have to break the bank. There are numerous budget-friendly treks across the country that offer the thrill of adventure without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a novice looking for a weekend getaway, there are plenty of affordable options to suit your needs. Among these, the Skandagiri Trek is a standout, with easy and affordable skandagiri trek booking​ options available for those near Bangalore. This article explores some of the top budget treks across India, offering unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler.
1. Skandagiri Trek (Karnataka)
One of the most popular budget treks near Bangalore is the Skandagiri Trek, also known as Kalavara Durga. Located just 60 km from the city, it is a fantastic option for those looking for an affordable and quick escape into nature. The skandagiri trek booking​ process is simple and inexpensive, making it accessible for both seasoned and beginner trekkers. The trek itself takes you through a blend of dense forests, rocky trails, and ultimately to the summit, which offers a stunning sunrise view above the clouds.
Skandagiri is best known for its night treks, where trekkers begin the journey in the dark and reach the peak by early morning to catch the sunrise. The trek is around 8 km long (round trip) and moderately challenging. With minimal equipment required and a nominal fee for the trek, Skandagiri is an ideal budget-friendly adventure for city dwellers.
2. Triund Trek (Himachal Pradesh)
For those who crave the grandeur of the Himalayas but want to keep costs low, the Triund Trek is a fantastic choice. Located near Dharamshala and McLeodganj in Himachal Pradesh, this trek offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar range without the need for expensive equipment or guides. The trek is about 9 km long and is relatively easy, making it suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike.
Triund is famous for its breathtaking sunset views and offers trekkers a serene camping experience on the ridge. You can either bring your own tent or rent one at the top, both of which are affordable options. The entire trek can be completed over a weekend, making it a cost-effective escape for those on a tight budget.
3. Har Ki Dun Trek (Uttarakhand)
Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, the Har Ki Dun Trek is another excellent budget-friendly option for nature lovers. Known for its lush valleys, pristine rivers, and scenic meadows, this trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. The trail passes through ancient villages, where trekkers can experience the local way of life.
Har Ki Dun is a relatively long trek, taking about 6-7 days to complete, but it remains one of the more affordable multi-day treks in India. The cost of food and accommodation in the villages along the way is low, and trekkers often opt for budget homestays or tents. The beauty of the landscape, combined with the trek’s affordability, makes Har Ki Dun a must-visit for budget travelers.
4. Kedarkantha Trek (Uttarakhand)
The Kedarkantha Trek is another Himalayan gem that can be done on a budget. Located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, this trek is particularly popular in winter when the trail is covered in snow, offering a magical trekking experience. Despite its snowy landscape, the trek is surprisingly affordable, with basic homestays and campsites available at budget rates.
The trek lasts around 5 days and takes you through beautiful pine forests, frozen lakes, and snow-covered peaks. Kedarkantha is known for its clear night skies, making it a favorite among photographers and stargazers. For budget-conscious trekkers looking to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without spending a fortune, Kedarkantha is a perfect choice.
5. Sandakphu Trek (West Bengal)
If you’re looking for a trek that offers panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga, the Sandakphu Trek is a budget-friendly option that should not be missed. Located on the border of West Bengal and Nepal, Sandakphu is the highest point in West Bengal and offers a unique trekking experience.
The trek can be completed in about 6-7 days, and there are plenty of affordable accommodation options along the way, including tea houses and guesthouses. The cost of food and lodging is minimal, and the trail doesn’t require any special equipment, making it accessible for those on a budget. Sandakphu’s breathtaking views of the “Sleeping Buddha” formation (Kanchenjunga) make it one of the most visually rewarding budget treks in India.
6. Rajmachi Trek (Maharashtra)
For trekkers in Maharashtra, the Rajmachi Trek is a great low-cost option that combines adventure with history. Located near Lonavala, this trek takes you to the historic Rajmachi Fort, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The trek is relatively easy and can be done over a weekend, making it perfect for budget-conscious trekkers.
Rajmachi is especially popular during the monsoon season when the landscape is lush and green, and the waterfalls are in full flow. The trek itself is free, and budget accommodation is available at the base village. Many trekkers choose to camp near the fort, which is an affordable and scenic option for those looking to minimize costs.
7. Chopta-Chandrashila Trek (Uttarakhand)
The Chopta-Chandrashila Trek is a beautiful and affordable trek in Uttarakhand that takes you to the summit of Chandrashila Peak, offering stunning 360-degree views of the Himalayan ranges, including Nanda Devi and Trishul. The trek also passes through the famous Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world.
This trek is relatively short and can be completed in 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for a budget-friendly trip. Accommodation in Chopta is inexpensive, with many trekkers opting for campsites or budget lodges. The natural beauty of this trek, combined with its affordability, makes it a top choice for budget travelers.
8. Goechala Trek (Sikkim)
For those who want a more challenging but budget-friendly trek, the Goechala Trek in Sikkim is a fantastic option. Known for its close-up views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world, this trek is perfect for experienced trekkers looking for an affordable adventure.
The trek lasts about 8-10 days, and while it is more challenging than some of the other treks on this list, it remains affordable due to the availability of budget accommodations and simple food options along the way. The highlight of the trek is reaching the Goechala viewpoint, which offers unparalleled views of the mighty Kanchenjunga.