Can Ponchos and Crampons Get Along | Alemaari Adhyaya Vol 2 Edition 5

Can Ponchos and Crampons Get Along?

Wandering why this edition has this theme? But, do you also honestly think — can they?

One is built for rain, mud, and trails that smell like wet earth and wildflowers. The other is built for ice, altitude, and the kind of silence that only exists above 5,000 metres. One belongs to someone doing their first ever trek slightly nervous, slightly unsure, poncho flapping in the wind. The other belongs to someone who has been building toward a summit for years crampons strapped, ice axe in hand, every previous trek leading to this one moment.

They don't exactly belong in the same sentence.

And yet in May, they shared the same calendar. The same team. The same company that was simultaneously preparing first-timers for their very first monsoon trail and experienced trekkers for Himalayan summits.

That's what made us stop and think. Not just about what happened in May but about what it means that both of these people exist in the same world. That the person nervously lacing up for their first VOF trek and the person preparing for Mera Peak at 6,476 metres are both, in their own way, doing exactly the same thing.

Saying yes to something bigger than their comfort zone.

So, can ponchos and crampons get along?

After May, we think absolutely yes.

Editor’s Desk — Alemaari Adhyaya

Months are just passing so soon. Season by season, before you even realise it — monsoon is already here.

But,I’m glad because our very own favourites are back. The trails we wait for all year. The ones that smell different, feel different, look different from everything else we do. VOF. Hampta. Kashmir. The bookings have started coming in batch by batch and I can almost smell the rain in them if that makes any sense at all.

But here's what's been making May feel particularly full this year.

It's not just the monsoon excitement. It's the fact that at the exact same time — while people are booking their first ever rain trek, nervous and excited and asking all the right questions — we're also seeing a completely different kind of person step forward. Someone who's been trekking for a while now. Someone who's done the valley trails, the base camps, the high passes. And who is now quietly, seriously asking about expeditions.

Because the expedition season has started too.

Mera Peak summited in May. Kilimanjaro batch is forming for August. Elbrus is on the table. And suddenly we're having two completely different kinds of conversations in the same week — one about ponchos and rain covers, another about crampons and summit windows.

That's what gave us this theme. That's why this edition is called what it's called.

Two seasons. Two kinds of trekkers. Both equally exciting. Both equally ours.

— Arshalakshmi Editor,

Alemaari Adhyaya

Stories from May

From Expeditions to Western Ghats, we had all in May.

Langtang Valley Trek on 9th May 2026

Langtang Valley Trek on 2nd May 2026

Mera Peak Expedition on 2nd May 2026

Skandagiri Trek on 2nd May 2026

Experiences Shared By Our Nomads

Everest Base Camp Honest Review

ft.Dr Eash Hoskote

What Different Professionals Felt About the

Manaslu Circuit Trek 2026

MARDI HIMAL AND ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP

ft. Mr.Gursharan Singh Bahia

MARDI HIMAL AND ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP

ft.Hari Nirmal

Mount Elbrus Expedition | Everything you need to know

Everything You Need to Know

Mount Kilimanjaro Expedition Webinar

Everything You Need to Know

Before You Pack Your Poncho — Read This First

Let's get one thing straight first.

Monsoon trekking is not a compromise. It's not what you do when you couldn't get leave in October or couldn't afford the Himalayan spring season. It's not the backup plan.

It's a choice. A very specific, very deliberate choice made by people who know something that the rest of the trekking world hasn't fully figured out yet.

This season, the bookings have already started. Batch by batch, the monsoon trails are filling up. And if you've been sitting on the fence about whether rain season is really worth it — this section is my honest attempt to push you off it. But before that, we would like to take you through your days on the trail.

Your Days in Valley of Flowers with Hemkund Sahib Trek [Premium]

Day 1 Rishikesh | Arrival

You arrive in Rishikesh and for most people, this is the moment it becomes real. The city is loud, the Ganga is moving fast, and tomorrow morning everything changes. Tonight is for meeting the group, getting your gear sorted, and sleeping with that particular mix of excitement and nerves that only a first day can give you.

Day 2 — Rishikesh → Govindghat | Drive: ~270 km | 9-10 hours

A long drive through the Garhwal Himalayas through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Nandaprayag, Chamoli. Five of the Panch Prayag — the sacred river confluences of Uttarakhand pass by your window one after another. Most people don't realise they're witnessing something significant until someone points it out. The mountains are already closer than they were this morning.

Day 3 Govindghat → Ghangaria | Trek: 14 km | Ascent: ~1,200m | 6-7 hours

14 kilometres from Govindghat up to Ghangaria, a steady climb through forests, alongside the Pushpavati river, with the trail getting quieter and greener with every hour. Your legs will know they worked by the time you arrive. Ghangaria sits at 3,048 metres and is your base for everything that follows. Get here, eat well, sleep early.

Day 4 Ghangaria → Valley of Flowers → Ghangaria | 8 km round trip | Altitude: 3,658m

This is the day.

The trail from Ghangaria to the Valley of Flowers is only 4 kilometres — but what waits at the end of those 4 kilometres is something that genuinely doesn't prepare you no matter how many photographs you've seen. Over 500 species of wildflowers in simultaneous bloom. A UNESCO World Heritage Site. A valley so saturated with colour that first-timers often go completely silent when it opens up in front of them.

You spend the day inside it. Walking slowly. Stopping often. Taking photos that will never quite capture it. Coming back to Ghangaria by evening with something in your chest that takes a while to name.

Day 5 Ghangaria → Hemkund Sahib → Ghangaria | 12 km round trip | Altitude: 4,329m

Surrounded by seven Himalayan peaks and a glacial lake that reflects all of them simultaneously. The climb from Ghangaria is steep 6 kilometres up, gaining nearly 1,300 metres. It takes most people 4-5 hours to reach the top. At the top, the Gurudwara sits beside a lake so it still looks painted. Whether you're religious or not, something about standing there, at that altitude, in that silence, with those peaks around you — does something to a person.

Day 6 Ghangaria → Badrinath → Govindghat

The route back passes through Badrinath one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, sitting at 3,133 metres with the Neelkanth peak directly behind it. Whether you visit the temple or simply pass through, the setting alone is worth pausing for. Drive back to Govindghat by evening.

Day 7 Govindghat → Rishikesh | Drive: ~270 km | 9-10 hours

The same road you took on Day 2. The same mountains, the same river confluences, the same curves. But you're not the same person who drove this road a week ago. That's the quiet thing about these journeys — the landscape doesn't change. You do.

Day 8 Rishikesh | Leisure

After everything, most people need this day. The ghats, the cafes, the river moving fast below Laxman Jhula. Some people sit quietly. Some explore. Everyone processes in their own way. Rishikesh has a particular talent for holding people gently after big journeys.

Day 9 Departure

You go home. But somewhere between the wildflowers and the Gurudwara and the long drives through river valleys something stayed with you. Most people who do VOF once start planning their return before they've even unpacked.

Your Days in Hampta Pass & Chandratal Lake Trek [Premium]

Day 1 — Manali in Arrival & Acclimatisation

Manali is where this begins. Tonight is orientation, gear check, and the slow realisation that tomorrow you step away from roads, restaurants, and reliable phone signal. The mountains are visible from almost every corner of town — a reminder of where you're headed. Sleep well. The next six days belong entirely to them.

Day 2 Manali → Jobra → Chika | Drive: 45 mins | Trek: 4 km | 3-4 hours | Altitude: 3,100m

The trek starts at Jobra — a small clearing where the trail begins and the forest takes over immediately. Today is a short, gentle introduction — 4 kilometres through dense forest and meadows alongside the Rani Nullah river, cold and loud, all the way to your first campsite at Chika. The views of the Kullu valley opening up behind you give you the first real sense of how far you've already come from Manali in a single afternoon.

Day 3 Chika → Balu Ka Ghera | Trek: 9 km | 5-6 hours | Altitude: 3,700m

Today the valley opens up properly. Wide alpine meadows — the kind that make you want to sit down in the middle of them and stay for a while — with Mt. Indrasan at 6,220m and Mt. Deo Tibba at 6,001m on the horizon for most of the day. These are serious peaks and they look it. Your campsite at Balu Ka Ghera sits right at the base of the Hamta Pass with those two giants watching from above. One of the most dramatic campsites of the entire trek.

Day 4 Balu Ka Ghera → Hamta Pass → Shea Goru | Trek: 10 km | 6-7 hours | Pass: 4,268m

This is the day the trek completely changes.

You leave early — the pass crossing always starts before the sun is fully up. The ascent is steep in the final section, the air noticeably thinner, snow on the pass itself even in summer. And then you reach the top.

On one side — the lush green Kullu valley you've been walking through for two days. On the other — the stark, almost lunar landscape of Lahaul and Spiti. The contrast is so sudden and so complete that most people stop walking and just stand there for a while, turning around to look at both worlds at once.

You can't unsee it. That's the point.

The descent to Shea Goru is steep and rocky. Your campsite at the bottom sits in the middle of the Lahaul desert — a landscape so different from where you started that it's hard to believe you walked here.

Day 5 Shea Goru → Chatru → Chandratal Lake | Trek + Drive | Altitude: 4,250m

Today you trek down to Chatru on the banks of the Chandra River and then drive to Chandratal Lake at 4,250 metres.

The Moon Lake. A crescent-shaped body of water so clear it has no colour of its own — it just reflects everything above it. Sky. Clouds. Mountains. Whatever the light is doing at that exact moment.

You camp here overnight. Sunrise at Chandratal when the first light hits the water and the surrounding peaks catch it simultaneously is the moment most people in every batch point to when asked what they'll remember longest. We won't describe it further. Some things are better experienced than read about.

Did you know Chandratal is one of only two Ramsar wetland sites in Himachal Pradesh? Walk lightly around it. It was here long before us and deserves to stay long after.

Day 6 Chandratal → Manali | Drive: ~115 km | 4-5 hours

The drive back to Manali crosses Rohtang Pass one of the most dramatic mountain roads in India with the Kullu valley appearing gradually as you descend. By the time Manali appears below you, you've crossed two completely different worlds in six days. That feeling of return is its own quiet thing.

Day 7 Departure

You go home. But that moment on the pass standing between two landscapes, looking both ways belongs to you now. Nobody can take that one back.

Upcoming Departures

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
7 Nights 8 Days

Kedarnath and Badrinath - Do Dham

₹ 33,799

The Kedarnath & Badrinath Dham Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual pilgrimage that takes you to two of the most revered shrines in the Char Dham Yatra. This journey through the Garhwal Himalayas is an opportunity to seek divine blessings while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayan landscapes, ancient temples, and sacred rivers. The trek starts from Rishikesh, giving you time to soak in the serene ambiance of the Yoga Capital of the World before heading towards Kedarnath, Tungnath, Badrinath, and Mana—the last village of India. Throughout this 8-day experience, you will visit some of the holiest sites in Hinduism, participate in spiritual rituals, and witness the majestic sunrise over the Himalayas. Join TrekNomads on this soul-enriching pilgrimage that blends adventure, spirituality, and the divine energy of the Himalayas.

Manali, Himachal Pradesh
6 Nights 7 Days

Hampta Pass & Chandratal Lake Trek [Premium] | 2026

₹ 29,899

The Hamta Pass & Chandratal Lake Trek is one of the most scenic and adventurous Himalayan treks, offering a perfect blend of lush green valleys, dramatic mountain passes, and the stunning Chandratal Lake. This 6-day trek takes you from the forested trails of Manali to the barren landscapes of Spiti, crossing the majestic Hamta Pass (4,268m). Ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers, this trek provides breathtaking views of Mt. Indrasan (6,220m), Mt. Deo Tibba (6,001m), and the rugged beauty of Lahaul & Spiti. The experience is further enriched with a visit to Chandratal Lake, one of the most stunning high-altitude lakes in India. Join TrekNomads for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure that blends nature, thrill, and high-altitude beauty.

Valley of Flowers Trek Uttarakhand with misty Himalayan landscape

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
8 Nights 9 Days

Valley of Flowers Trek and Hemkund Sahib [Premium] | 2026

₹ 32,499

Valley of Flowers trek is one of the most beautiful treks in India, this also happens to be one of those treks where a lot of trekkers begin their journey of exploring the Himalayas. Located in the Nanda Devi Biosphere, Valley of Flowers is a UNESCO World Heritage site and also India's largest natural botanical garden. One of Uttarakhand's most scenic destinations is the two adjoining treks, Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib conveniently positioned between Joshimath and Badrinath. Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers distance is 4km. Visit the abode of various species of flowers! Valley of Flowers altitude is around 3,600 m. The Valley of Flowers National Park opens up in a floral splendour from June until September every year. A good 500 plus different species bloom and carpet the valley during this time. The riot of colours that trekkers get to see during this time period is beyond what words can describe. For us, the best time to visit the Valley of Flowers is anywhere between mid of July - August end. Valley of Flowers Himalayas - Acclimatise in Auli On the trek to the Valley of Flowers, you will be acclimatising in Auli. It is India's most popular ski destination - Auli, on the first two days of the trek. Head out to the beautiful Gorson Bugyal for an acclimatisation trek. Have hot langar by an Alpine Lake at 14,200 ft (4,633 m) The Valley of Flowers trek is incomplete without an exhilarating climb to the world's highest Gurudwara Shri Hemkund Sahib. Nestled in the backdrop of the pristine Hemkund lake is the holy Gurudwara which is visited by thousands of devotees and trekkers every year. (Click here to read a detailed photo blog on our Hemkund Sahib Trek) Visit Panch Prayag Travel via the five sacred river confluences in the Garhwal Himalayas. Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Nandaprayag and Vishnuprayag in the ascending flow sequence of their occurrence. Devprayag is the confluence of the two holy rivers, the Bhagirathi - the chief stream of the Ganges and the Alaknanda. It is the first Prayag on the way to Badrinath. Beyond this confluence, the river is known as the Ganges. Rudra Prayag is the confluence where the river Alaknanda meets the Mandakini River. The confluence is named after the god Shiva, who is also known as Rudra. Karn Prayag is the location where the Alaknanda River is joined by the Pindar River which originates from the Pindar glacier, below the Nanda Devi Mountain range. Nandaprayag is the confluence where the Mandakini River joins the main Alaknanda River. Vishnuprayag - The Alaknanda River, which originates from Satopanth glacier, is joined by the Dhauli Ganga River near Joshimath (on Joshimath - Govindghat/Badrinath route). Alaknanda flows in front of the Badrinath temple, one of the most revered Hindu shrines. Visit here to check out Best Time to visit Valley of Flowers. The stunning views on Valley of Flowers Uttarakhand trek! The trail to Gorsan Bugyal gives you a good close-up view of the revered Mt. Nanda Devi along with other peaks such as Mt. Chaukamba, Mt. Dronagiri, Hathi Parvat, Ghoda Parvat and many more. All of this makes this trek a perfect escapade from the monotony of daily life. The landscapes will surely make you fall in love with photography. Hemkund Sahib Valley of Fllowers trek- See animals that reside in the Biosphere Valley of Flowers location is endowed with a diverse range of endemic flora, it is picturesque in its beauty. This lush region is also home to some rare and endangered animal species. You may spot animals like Asiatic Black Deer, Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Red Fox, Brown Bear, and Blue Sheep. Important Valley of Flowers trek Links: For queries regarding the trek: Go to our Valley of Flowers FAQs page and find answers to all your question. For a detailed guide on Valley of Flowers: Read this comprehensive Valley of Flowers Guide to help you understand all you need to know about the Valley of Flowers trek! To see how the Valley looks during the monsoons: Check out this photoblog of 45 stunning pictures captured during the monsoon trek to Valley of Flowers. How to get fit for the Valley of Flowers trek: Click here to read a detailed blog on preparing for the Valley of Flowers trek. Wondering what to carry for the trek: Read this blog with a detailed list of things to carry for the Valley of Flowers trek. Visit here to know more about the Valley of Flowers trek package. Visit here for Valley of Flowers trek cost and dates. Visit here for Valley of Flowers trek itinerary.

Leh
9 Nights 10 Days

Kang Yatse II Expedition - 6250m | 2026

₹ 74,000

Kang Yatse II, the Western Summit of Kang Yatse, presents an exhilarating opportunity for mountaineers seeking to progress from trekking peaks to semi-technical mountaineering. Located in Ladakh's Markha Valley, this peak offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of iconic mountains such as K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum Massif to the north, and Nun Kun and the Zanskar peaks to the west. With an Alpine PD rating and an elevation just above 20,000 feet, Kang Yatse II poses a challenging yet achievable climb for experienced mountaineers and trekkers. The journey to KY2 traverses picturesque pastures of Thactungtse and Nimling, adorned with vibrant wildflowers. Along the way, you'll encounter mystical Mani stones and pristine Tigu lakes, adding to the allure of the trek. Summit Day presents its own set of challenges, with moraines, loose rocks, and snow-covered crevasses requiring roping up for safety. Despite the obstacles, the climb offers a rewarding blend of pleasure and challenge. The expedition to Kang Yatse II is an ideal opportunity for mountaineers to test their skills on a semi-technical peak while being rewarded with awe-inspiring mountain vistas and the breathtaking beauty of Ladakh's landscape. Join TrekNomads and embark on an unforgettable adventure to Kang Yatse II! LADAKH is home to numerous natural wonders, but the most precious gift bestowed upon this magical land is the Chadar Trek. The trek is all about persistence & survival – learning to survive in the harsh terrains at sub-zero temperatures, interacting with the locals & understanding their way of living, especially in one of the most inhabitable regions in the world, while you trek across a dramatic gorge with frozen waterfalls on the frozen trail of Zanskar spanned out like a “Chadar” it acts as a mirror for the sky! LEH is located in the northernmost parts of the country. It is traveller friendly, enchanting and a hassle-free fun town lapped in the snow-covered fringes of the Himalayas. You can explore the bustling Local bazaar, and enjoy some delicious food ranging from the local cuisine, Mughlai, Tibetan, and Chinese to Italian. Narrow footpaths, sturdy walls, and a view of snow-covered mountains make you fall in love with the place instantly. There are a number of interesting places and monasteries to visit in and around Leh, such as – Shanti Stupa, The Leh Palace, the monasteries of Shey, Hemis, Alchi, Thiksey and Lamayuru, the Armed Forces Hall of Fame and much more!

Leh
12 Nights 13 Days

Kang Yatse II Expedition + Dzo Jongo Expedition | 2026

₹ 96,999

Dual 6,000m Peak Expedition in Ladakh: Kang Yatse II & Dzo Jongo Step into the world of high-altitude mountaineering in Ladakh with TrekNomads’ signature dual 6000m peak expedition featuring Kang Yatse II (6,250 m) and Dzo Jongo Peak (6,200 m). Set in the breathtaking Markha Valley, this experience blends the beauty of one of the best treks in Ladakh with the thrill of summiting two Himalayan peaks. Designed for trekkers looking to level up, this journey is ideal for those transitioning from high-altitude trekking in India to beginner mountaineering in the Himalayas. The route takes you through scenic valleys, remote camps, and high-altitude meadows like Nimaling (4,700 m), building the perfect foundation for summit success. Kang Yatse II is widely regarded as one of the best first 6000m peaks in India, offering a semi-technical climb with glacier travel, moraine sections, and rewarding summit views of the Zanskar Range and surrounding Himalayan giants. In contrast, Dzo Jongo Peak is a quieter, non-technical trekking peak in Ladakh, perfect for acclimatisation and gaining confidence on snow and scree terrain. What makes this journey truly special is the opportunity to climb two 6000m peaks in one expedition, making it one of the most sought-after Ladakh peak climbing experiences. With fewer crowds, raw alpine landscapes, and a well-paced itinerary, this expedition delivers both challenge and immersion. Starting from Leh (3,500 m), the adventure also offers a chance to explore the cultural side of Ladakh, from monasteries to mountain villages, before heading into the wilderness. For those searching for the best Ladakh trekking and mountaineering experience, this expedition offers the perfect balance of adventure, altitude, and achievement.

Leh
7 Nights 8 Days

Markha Valley Trek [Premium] | 2026

₹ 29,999

Markha Valley is a hidden gem nestled in the Himalayas. Discover the untouched beauty of this picturesque region, where rugged landscapes, charming villages, and high mountain passes await. Immerse yourself in the unique culture of Ladakh as you interact with welcoming locals and witness majestic views of Kang Yatse and the Himalayas. With meticulous planning and expert guidance, the Markha Valley Trek promises an unforgettable journey, offering a perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Take this extraordinary Himalayan trek that will leave you with cherished memories and a profound connection with the mountains.Secure your registration with just a 20% deposit today and pay the remainder 30 days before the departure date. Your journey awaits! ✈️ LEH is located in the northernmost parts of the country. It is traveller friendly, enchanting and a hassle-free fun town lapped in the snow-covered fringes of the Himalayas. You can explore the bustling Local bazaar, and enjoy some delicious food ranging from the local cuisine, Mughlai, Tibetan, and Chinese to Italian. Narrow footpaths, sturdy walls, and a view of snow-covered mountains make you fall in love with the place instantly. There are a number of interesting places and monasteries to visit in and around Leh, such as – Shanti Stupa, The Leh Palace, the monasteries of Shey, Hemis, Alchi, Thiksey and Lamayuru, the Armed Forces Hall of Fame and much more!

Srinagar
8 Nights 9 Days

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek [Premium] | 2026

₹ 34,499

Make just a 20% deposit today and pay the remainder 30 days before your departure date. Your journey awaits! ✈️ Kashmir trekking is undoubtedly one of the most heavenly places on Earth. Kashmir hiking is on the wish list of most trekkers. Trekking in Kashmir involves beautiful breathtaking valleys and mountains that exude serenity, Kashmir is easily a trekker's paradise. Kashmir's altitude is an average of 1,850 metres (6,070 ft) above sea-level. is With pristine high-altitude lakes such as - Gadasar, Satsar, Nundkol, Gangbal, Vishansar and Krishnasar, the trail that explores these lakes is one the most sought after treks in the region. The trek exudes beauty like no other and validates the statement - "Kashmir is heaven on Earth". The Kashmir Great Lakes trail is meandering and takes you to superbly diverse terrains that will be etched in your memories forever. The trail was closed to civilians until a couple of years and was later opened up as a boon to the trekking community who could see the real beauty of Kashmir through its valleys and mountains. The High-Altitude Alpine Lakes in Kashmir Great Lakes Trek On the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, you get to explore and camp 5 high-altitude lakes in various mesmerizing valleys. with emerald green waters, these untouched water bodies look straight out of HD wallpaper. These lakes are surrounded and guarded by tall mountains and are extremely scenic. One of the less explored lakes in this category is Gadsar Lake. Not only does it require a hard trek, but it is also less visited by tourists. Gadsar is fed by a gigantic glacier near it and the trail will remind you of the Valley of Flowers trek. The meadowed grasslands and the wildflowers that grow here will make you feel like you're in the middle of a movie set! You get a glimpse of all 5 lakes from Gadsar pass on the Kashmir Great Lakes trek While the Gadsar lake is immensely beautiful, the Gadsar pass is incredibly magnificent in itself. The higher you climb, the better the view gets. Right from the twin lakes - Vishansar & Kishansar, you can also get a glimpse of the three Gadsar lakes which would be located towards the right. If you have a good camera, a panoramic picture of this view will be worth millions! With lush green meadows sprawling out near the crystal blue waters and snow-clad mountains in the backdrop, this sight will make you fall in love with nature all over again. Another surprising element here is that the Gadsar pass will also show you a glimpse of many smaller lakes on the way. Don't forget to count the lakes you've come across here! Breathtaking drive from Srinagar to Sonmarg/Sitkari The base camp for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is an enthralling hill station called Sitkari near Sonmarg. According to Kashmir Great Lakes trek map, post arrival in Srinagar, you will be driving down to Sonmarg and then to Sitkari. The drive to Sitkari will give you views of scattered forests, meandering streams, extremely treacherous roads, and incredibly majestic snow-clad mountains. Visit Zoji La Pass & Zero Point On your day of arrival at Sitkari, to help you acclimatize to higher altitudes, you will be driven to Zero points near Kargil and will get to travel through the super famous high mountain pass - Zoji La Pass for sightseeing. Trekking to the treeline from Gangbal Another promising aspect of this trek is the descent from Gangbal to the tree line. This picture-perfect hike will take your breath away and leave you awed. While you would leave behind the view of Harmukh Peak which is engulfed by the humongous glacier near the Nundkol Lake. you will begin to realize that the beauty you see in Kashmir is something you would never find elsewhere. Gangbal - The Ganges of Kashmir Great Lakes trek Here's an interesting fact: The name Gangbal was derived from the river Ganges. The lake is extremely sacred to Kashmiri Pandits and is also considered to be a holy pilgrimage site. They take part in what is called a Gangbal-Harmukh yatra, the annual pilgrimage to the 14,500 feet-high Harmukh-Gangbal lake shrine. It is also believed that Lord Shiva resided near the Gangbal lake which makes it religiously significant.

Panoramic views of Himalayas in Everest Base Camp Route

Kathmandu
15 Nights 16 Days

Everest Base Camp Trek [Premium]

₹ 111,999

Everest Base Camp Trek: Ultimate Adventure to the World’s Highest Peak Experience the Spectacular Everest Base Camp Trek with Stunning Himalayan Views and Sherpa Culture The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most iconic and breathtaking trekking experiences in the world, drawing adventure seekers to Nepal to witness the majesty of the Himalayas up close. This journey offers spectacular mountain scenery, including panoramic views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other towering peaks. The trek combines thrilling outdoor adventure with rich cultural immersion in the Sherpa villages, monasteries, and traditions that make this region so unique. Starting from the vibrant city of Kathmandu, trekkers enjoy a full day of sightseeing before flying to Lukla—the gateway to the Everest region and home to one of the world's most challenging airports. From Lukla, the trek passes through iconic Sherpa settlements like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche Monastery, winding through rhododendron forests, crossing suspension bridges, and navigating diverse mountain terrain. The trek’s highlight is reaching Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters, offering an unmatched panoramic view of Everest’s summit and surrounding Himalayan giants. Typically lasting around 16 days, the Everest Base Camp trek is best undertaken between March to May and September to December, when the weather is clear and favourable for trekking. Along the route, trekkers can savour authentic Sherpa hospitality—sampling local tea and millet beer, exploring traditional markets, and visiting ancient monasteries adorned with colourful prayer flags and carved Mani stones. The combination of physical challenge, stunning natural beauty, and cultural richness makes the Everest Base Camp trek a truly unforgettable adventure.Secure your registration with just a 20% deposit today and pay the remainder 30 days before the departure date. Your journey awaits! ✈️

Pokhara
12 Nights 13 Days

Annapurna Base Camp Trek [Premium]

₹ 84,999

The Annapurna Base Camp or Annapurna Sanctuary trek is one of the classical and most scenic treks in Nepal. The trek passes through spectacular and tranquil landscapes, charming Gurung and Magar villages, and pathways filled with colourful Rhododendrons, lush green forest bamboo, and alpine forests truly The Annapurna Base Camp trek offers it all. At the trip’s final destination, the Annapurna Base Camp at the height of 4130m where you can achieve a feeling of peace and become one with the beautiful nature of the mighty Annapurna. The Annapurna range of Nepal is a massif of mountain ranges with over sixteen peaks over 6000m. In Nepal, Annapurna is believed to be the avatar of Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva. The literal meaning of it also translates to give or full. The entire ranges of Annapurna are protected in the Annapurna Conservation Areas which is the first and largest conservation area in Nepal. The trek to Annapurna is considered one of the best treks in the world as you can see the transition of the green hills with waterfalls to jungles, then eventually to barren rocky hills and the snow-clad Annapurna ranges. Why trek to Annapurna Base Camp? Revel in breathtaking vistas trekking amongst the Annapurna Range Immerse yourself in Nepali life as you trek through Gurung Villages Journey into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary for sublime panoramic views Experience two spectacular Himalayan mountain flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara

While the Ponchos Are Out — The Crampons Are Ready Too

Here's something most people don't think about when they hear "monsoon season."

While one group of trekkers is lacing up for their first rain trail — poncho packed, slightly nervous, wildflowers waiting - another group is quietly preparing for something entirely different. Higher. Colder. More technical. The kind of objective that doesn't just test your fitness but asks something deeper of you.

May is when we started those conversations seriously.

And June is when they need to become decisions.

Could You Stand on the Roof of Africa?

35,000 people attempt Kilimanjaro every year.

Not mountaineers. Not professional climbers. Just people from all walks of life, all fitness levels, all ages who decided that standing on the highest point in Africa was something they wanted to do before they ran out of reasons not to.

Here's what makes Kilimanjaro unlike any other summit in the world. You don't climb one mountain. You walk through five completely different worlds to get there.

Rainforest — 800 to 2,800m Dense canopy, mist hanging low, colobus monkeys in the trees, orchids and moss draped over everything. Warm, humid, alive. You start here and it feels almost too gentle for a mountain this famous.

Moorland — 2,800 to 4,000m Giant lobelias and groundsels stretching to the horizon — plants that look like they belong on another planet. Heather everywhere. The temperature drops noticeably and the landscape starts to feel genuinely otherworldly.

Alpine Desert — 4,000 to 5,000m Rocky. Arid. Barren. The air thins noticeably here and your body starts paying attention. The sunsets from this zone are the kind that photographers travel specifically to capture — the sky turns orange, then pink, then something that doesn't have a name.

Arctic Zone — 5,000 to 5,500m Ice fields. Glaciers. Boulders of scree. Below -10°C. This is the section that separates the people who prepared from the people who thought they had. Mentally the hardest stretch. Physically demanding in a way that surprises most people who felt strong the day before.

Uhuru Peak — 5,895m The Roof of Africa.

That's it. That's what's waiting at the end of all five worlds.

We're forming our 10th August 2026 batch right now for a summit on the 15th of August, Independence Day. The window is good, the route is the Lemosho, the most scenic approach on the mountain and the spots are filling. We also have a confirmed departure on 22 nd January 2027 for a summit on the 26th January, Republic Day.

Need guidance to understand about this expedition? Watch here.

If Kilimanjaro has been on your list for longer than you'd like to admit — this is the batch. This is the year.

Reach out at info@treknomads.com or +91 9886444809 and let's talk about getting you to the roof.

Mt. Elbrus Expedition - Europe's Highest Summit

For a lot of trekkers that question sits quietly for a while. You've done the base camps. You've done the high passes. You've maybe even done a summit or two. And somewhere in the back of your mind, a number keeps appearing. 5,642 metres. The Caucasus Mountains of Russia. The highest peak in Europe. The one that sits on the Seven Summits list right after Kilimanjaro and before everything gets seriously technical.

Mount Elbrus.

Here's what makes Elbrus different from every other mountain on the Seven Summits list — the standard route is technical, requires ropes, rock climbing, previous mountaineering experience. What it demands is altitude fitness, cold tolerance, and the right support on summit day when the weather on the upper mountain can change faster than you expect. Need guidance to understand about this expedition? Watch here.

What it gives back is a summit at 5,642 metres higher than Mont Blanc, higher than anything in Western Asia, higher than anywhere most people will ever stand in their lives with views across the Caucasus that stretch into three countries simultaneously.

Check our departure dates: 2nd Aug 2026; 10th Aug 2026 & 18th Aug 2026

If Elbrus has been sitting in your head as a goal, as a next step, as the answer to that question of what's next — this is the conversation to have now, not later.

Reach out. We'll be honest about whether you're ready, what getting ready looks like, and why this might be the most important yes you say this year.

Kang Yatse II — What Comes After Markha Valley

At 6,250 metres, it sits at the top of the same Markha Valley you already know which means the approach isn't just logistics, it's a return to a place that meant something. You walk back through those same barley fields and prayer flags and mud-walled villages, but this time the valley is leading you somewhere higher. To the base of a peak that has been visible on the horizon since day one of Markha, watching you the whole time.

Did you know that Kang Yatse II at 6,250 metres is higher than Mont Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe and higher than Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa? You'd be standing, on Indian soil, above both of them.

From the summit on a clear day, you can see K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrum massif the giants of the Karakoram laid out across the horizon. That view is available to exactly the people willing to do what it takes to get there.

This expedition runs over 11 days from Leh, two days of acclimatisation, the Markha Valley approach, base camp, summit push, and descent. It is not for everyone. It demands previous high-altitude trekking experience, real physical preparation, and the kind of mental commitment that doesn't waver on summit night when everything is cold and dark and the top still feels far away. We have upcoming departures on 18th July 2026, 8th Aug 2026, 29th Aug 2026, 18th Sept 2026

Need guidance to understand about this expedition? Watch here.

Before You Go — The Poncho Edition

Since this is officially the poncho edition — let's talk about what most people get completely wrong about monsoon trekking gear.

The poncho debate. Yes, bring one. But not a cheap plastic one that tears on the first branch and becomes useless in a crosswind. A proper rain poncho that covers both you and your pack, that's the one that actually works on a full day of rain on a Himalayan trail.

The boot trap. Waterproof boots sound like the obvious choice for monsoon. They're not. Water gets in from the top on river crossings and wet descents, and then it stays there trapped, cold, and extremely unfriendly to your feet for the rest of the day. Mesh trail shoes that drain fast and dry overnight will serve you far better on most monsoon trails.

The cotton problem. If you pack cotton anything for a monsoon trek, you will regret it. Cotton absorbs moisture and holds it against your skin, all day. Quick-dry synthetics and merino wool are what actually work. One wet cotton t-shirt is all it takes to understand this lesson permanently.

The dry bag. One dry bag inside your pack. Phone, documents, one set of completely dry clothes for camp. This is the difference between a comfortable evening and a miserable one. Non-negotiable.

The one thing nobody mentions. Your mood. Monsoon trekking requires a particular kind of willingness to be wet, to laugh at being wet, and to find the beauty in grey skies rather than cursing them. The trekkers who struggle most in monsoon aren't unprepared physically. They're unprepared mentally for the rain to just be part of the experience rather than a problem to solve.

Pack the poncho. Embrace the rain. The wildflowers don't bloom without it.

TrekNomads Exclusive For the Nomads Who Pack Smart

You're on day three of a Himalayan trek. Your regular towel the one you optimistically packed is damp, heavy, taking up a third of your bag, and showing absolutely no signs of drying anytime soon. You drape it over your tent. It's still wet at dinner.

That's a problem Tisaana solved.

Tisaana's NanoLite towel is built specifically for people who move trekkers, travellers, anyone who needs a towel that earns its place in a 40-litre pack. Ultralight nanofiber technology that absorbs fast, dries in minutes, resists bacteria and odour, and folds down so compact you'll forget it's even there.

We've been using it. We're recommending it. And we've got something for you.

As a TrekNomads community member, you get an exclusive discount on Tisaana's NanoLite towels the ones that have quietly become one of our most recommended pieces of kit before any monsoon or high-altitude trek.

Get 30% off for first 100 customers.
Use code TREKNOMADS30.
BUY NOW

We also bring you Community Exclusive get ₹500 OFF on all NanoLite towels.
Use code TREKNOMADS500
BUY NOW

[Valid until 9th July 2026]

Until The Next Month

May gave us two worlds running simultaneously. Someone putting on a poncho for the first time. Someone else strapping on crampons at 6,000 metres. Both of them nervous. Both of them ready. Both of them coming back different.

That's what this month reminded us that there's no single version of what a trekker looks like. No right way to start, no ceiling on how far it can take you. The person doing VOF this July and the person summiting Kilimanjaro in August are on the same journey. Just at different points on it.

Wherever you are on that journey right now there's a trail waiting for you.

Poncho or crampons. Both are welcome here.

Until the next edition — may the mountains stay somewhere in your thoughts.

Arsha Lakshmi

Editor

Can Ponchos and Crampons Get Along? | Alemaari Adhyaya By TrekNomads VOL 2 Edition 5