The 2013 monsoon wreaked havoc in the holy land of Uttarakhand. Excessive rainfall from June 14 to 17 caused the melting of the Chorabari Glacier. The continuous rains along with the water from the melted glacier caused the Mandakini River to erupt. The river grew and grew with great force, overflowing its limits. This inundation of water caused several landslides, which in turn caused the river to change its course.

Water mixed with debris gushed onto roads, bridges, residences and other structures. Many of the roads were washed out; bridges were broken; the buildings collapsed like a deck of cards. The houses that could withstand the strong jet of water were submerged in mud and stones carried by the water.

Garhwal Division of Uttarakhand has suffered maximum destruction of both life and property. Uttarakhand’s economy is highly dependent on tourism. Due to the tragedy, the number of tourists has been greatly reduced.

Not all places in Uttarakhand were affected. There are many fascinating areas throughout the state that are just as impressive as ever. And they can also be reached comfortably and safely.

Following are some winter treks in the Garhwal region that are sure to delight adventure and nature lovers:

dodital

It is a lake that is 3024 meters above sea level. A jeep ride from Uttarkashi can take you to the Sangamchatti starting point. Dodital is 21 km from here. And the refreshing views of forests, meadows, and streams along the way make the 13-mile trail the most enjoyable to hike. The hiker can also stop at a hostel or private camp in Agora or in the town of Bebra. You can also take the tent and stop where you want.

Dayara Bugyal

Spread over an area of ​​28 km, Dayara Bugya is a beautiful alpine meadow that is one of the easiest treks in India. The hike goes through dense forests and open areas. A small lake called Barnala Tal, found on the way, is a delight to behold. There are two points from which the trek can be started: Barsu and Raithal. The best you can choose is to walk up one and down the other. This will give the hiker a chance to see the attractive views at both ends.

Auli Gorson Bugyal

Auli is a popular ski destination that is considered one of the longest in Asia. One can go up through a place called Gorson Bugyal, which is 3 km away from Auli. Gorson Bugyal is a meadow at a high altitude of 3056 meters. Walking across the meadow among oak and coniferous trees, with the alluring Himalayan peaks in the background, is a truly magnificent experience.

Har Ki Dun Valley

Being situated in a secluded part of Uttarakhand, the place has retained its pristine natural beauty. Har ki Dun valley can be reached by hiking from Taluka village. Taluka is located at a distance of 20-25 km from the valley. The distance can be covered in a 2-day trek and the route will pass through some remote villages whose inhabitants still live life in a primitive way.

Kedar Kantha Trek

It is situated near the Har ki Dun valley and is even more isolated than the valley and therefore more exotic. Kedarkantha Peak offers a wonderful 360 degree view of the snow capped mountain peaks. The trek starts from a village called Sankri. The summit is about 26 km from the town. One would come across a dense forest, which is endowed with rich flora and fauna and a small but simply lovely lake.

Nag Tibba Hike

It is religiously believed to be the abode of Nag devta (Lord of Snakes) and is frequented by the villagers who come here to pay their respects. The trek starts from Devalsari, which is at a distance of about 13 km from Nag Tibba. One can stay in Devalsari in the forest guest house before starting the trek. There is no accommodation on top of Nag Tibba. One can take a tent if one intends to spend a night on top. You can walk further for 3 km from Nag Tibba to have a splendid view of the Himalayas.

chopta chandrashila

Chopta Chandrashila Trek is a 5 km long trek that starts at a place called Chopta. From Chopta, the trek leads to Tungnath, which is a Shiva temple and is said to be a thousand years old. It is one of the five temples of Panch Kedar. From here it is a 1 km steep path to the final destination Chandrashila. Standing at a height of 4000 meters, the peak offers a vantage point from which one can have an amazing view of the surrounding Himalayan peaks such as Kedar Peak, Trisul, Nandadevi and Chaukhamba.

The state needs funds to rebuild; the local population needs employment to survive. A trip to Uttarakhand will offer hope to the local people and a wonderful retreat to the guests.