Anyone can organize a trek. Two people to lead the trek, a few for logistics, a list of places to reach & a trek is ready. That is the ‘what’, ‘where’ & ‘how’. It, however, doesn’t answer the ‘why’. This is IndiaHikes’ USP. The ‘why’. They’ve beautifully addressed not just ‘why everyone should trek’ but, in order to experience the trek to the fullest, why factors such as physical & mental readiness, gear preparation, emphasis on sustainability and safety are equally important. IndiaHikes personnel during the trek were amazing humans. Their ability to engage trekkers, their local knowledge of environment, sustainability, and topics like Indian history, geography, spirituality and even photography showed their dedication towards their core values. During the trek, activities such as watching a sunset in absolute silence to soak in the moment & being one with the surroundings or standing in a circle in silence at the summit to reminisce all that we did to get here uplifted my trek to a richer, more holistic and a personal experience. Trekking is a transformative activity. The transformation for me started even before the trek. IndiaHikes’ requirement to be physically fit singlehandedly transformed me from a non-runner to a regular runner today. At 48, I feel physically & mentally fitter than I was just years ago. My diet is healthier, my core strength became better & my quality of life is improved. To return from the trek experiencing Indiahikes’ values can only help speed up the transformation.
Indiahikes takes care of almost everything one can think of regarding a trek. They will teach you how to hold trekpoles, tricks and tips for uphill and downhill journeys, the necessity of eating proper food, the way to observe nature and to find directions by looking at forest patterns. The importance of water conservation and smart use of water has been taught. The super tasty warm food at high altitudes is the cherry on the cake. A clean and green environment is another point that Indiahikes takes care of. With excellent guides and trek leaders, you will fall in love with trekking. I think Indiahikes wants you to fall in love with the mountains. As you start loving the mountain, caring for the environment comes automatically. The trek with Indiahikes is going to transform you for sure. I have found a completely new Sabyasachi, a more responsible, more sensitive and more lovable one after trekking with Indiahikes.
I have a team of 14 people and we are completely remote, spread across the country. So every 3 months we meet for 4-5 days, we call it an off-site. And that's the time when we come together, we discover each other, we bond. And then we go into our own worlds to just work the way we do. So this time we decided on a very different experience. Everyone opted for and voted for a trek.
So we started scanning and Indiahikes was evidently the choice because you guys are the best at what you do.
I thoroughly enjoyed this experience because this is not what we're used to or what we experience in city life.
I think while the mission and vision for Indiahikes is that everyone should trek. If I had to add in my little bit here, I have nobody to say so. Every entrepreneur mandatorily should trek. It should be like a national government policy. Because this is truly the test of what real life will be when you go back into your business.
It's unpredictable, you cannot plan. I remember we came in and it was like raining cats and dogs. And we were like, it's over, it's not going to happen. And yet it happened. On the day of the summit which was yesterday, we climbed from 12,000 to 14,000 feet. We were very scared because there were insane thundershowers at night. And we were like, it's over, nothing is going to be seen, nothing is going to happen. Not a single drop of rain. So things will go your way, things will not go your way and you will never know.
But you will have to adjust, you will always have to adjust. You will always have to realign yourself and be super agile to make that happen. You will feel low, you will feel small, you will feel like things are not working out your way. But if you have your collective and more importantly you have yourself and the conversation you have with yourself, you will rise up. And the biggest thing is one step at a time. It doesn't matter how much time you take.
Trek leaders Amit and Sharvari had instilled in our minds that 14,000 feet is not a joke. Generally, when we reached there, we were like, yay, the summit is done. And then they were like, this is 2000 feet above Mount Fuji. We were able to do it one step at a time.
There are hundreds of lessons from a trek that you can pick up and apply in business and real life.
Thank you, India Hikes, for all that you do.
It really makes a difference. And I'm so happy that there are people as passionate as you who own up, show up every day and make the world realize how important the world we stay in is and how we need to both protect it and through this journey, protect our own sanity in so many ways. Because once you go back into the city life, the world just takes over and you get lost in the crowd, only to realize you're not even living your own life but someone else's.
So thank you for that reminder.
The treks at Indiahikes are always designed such that we get enough time on the trail to pause for a moment and process our thoughts. Sometimes we get postcards while we’re at the summit to write to our loved ones or our future selves; If there’s a beautiful expanse or a stream on our trail, we get to meditate and go through our feelings in solitude! I deeply enjoy these moments. There are multiple small experiences over the treks that I believe will stick with me forever :) On one of my previous treks, we laid our sleeping bags out in the open for an hour at night in the freezing cold, just to watch the sky and shooting stars. One of my trek leaders was into astronomy and they taught us how to identify the Milky Way using three stars. Another time I got inspired to try out a skiing course in Gulmarg just by listening to the stories of our trek leader. They do not know, but the trek leads end up making a huge difference in our lives solely in the six to seven days we get to spend with them. Overall, I can guarantee that the entire experience I go through on each trek with Indiahikes is life-changing, and I always leave with a lifetime of memories and some life-long friends.
One of the things that was repeated throughout the trek was Indiahikes' insistence on keeping it sustainable through its zero waste policy. By the end of the trek, I felt that was one value that was deeply inculcated in every trekker who was part of my group. A lot of credit goes to my trek leader and resource personnel behind by walking the talk.
Being transparent helped to keep doubts and specialisations at bay. At every point of the trek, trek management was very clear about the timelines and quality of service and set the expectations right through unambiguous clear messaging - whether it be whatsapp communication, in-person chats or trek debriefs every night.
One of the mental blocks of a first-time trekker is the fear of being judged. The inclusive nature of trek management was on display in this regard. The trek led by Harsh Jolly made sure that no one was made fun of or reprimanded because they had a different pace of doing it. Proactive efforts in nudging people who are prone to going into a shell by organising group interactive sessions, games and conversations were a masterclass in handling a group.
Finally, the food! I believe the quality of food I tasted, 10,000 feet up will put a lot of restaurants in the plains to shame. The very choice of India Hikes to keep food a priority is admirable and spot on when it comes to knowing the priorities of the trekkers.
Trekking with Indiahikes is not just an adventure; it’s a holistic, fulfilling journey. This organization goes beyond being a business; they are building an entire ecosystem and community of trekkers. The experience is carefully curated to be both fun and intellectually enriching.
The treks are thoughtfully designed, with well-timed breaks, picturesque campsites, and delicious home-cooked meals. They even went the extra mile to accommodate my dairy allergy, preparing food and tea separately for me.
Indiahikes creates an environment where you can reconnect with yourself while also forming meaningful bonds with others. They are mindful of protecting the mountains and their experienced guides are always there to help. Can't recommend them enough.
Indiahikes is one of the most meaningful and purpose-driven trekking organizations I have come across. Their vision towards enabling everyone to trek, providing all the necessary facilities and equipment is a testimony to their fundamentals on how they wish to operate and enable safe treks. Experiences on each of the treks have been carefully designed and assessed. I have been on forest/mountain treks, where they let you soak yourself into the immersive beauty of nature through various activities/tasks. The ability to let your senses speak with you through these activities has a far-reaching purpose during these treks. Trek leaders I have met during these treks are far more than compassionate, human, and mindful. Their experiences have helped us foster a safe environment during treks, especially with the fun sessions they have hosted in the evenings after a day-long tiring hike. Sustainability has been a major focus across organizations, and I am excited to see Indiahikes embed sustainability as part of their initiatives which helps us, as trekkers, to be able to contribute.
Indiahikes' values were not just spoken but vividly experienced throughout the trek. The meticulous design of the trek, from the breathtaking route through fields and villages to the challenging yet rewarding climb, showcased the organization's commitment to delivering unique and memorable adventures. The post-trek activities, like the moment of silence by the lake and the stargazing night walk, demonstrated Indiahikes' dedication to creating holistic and meaningful experiences. These moments allowed us to connect with nature and our fellow trekkers on a deeper level. In essence, my trek with Indiahikes was not just a physical journey; it was a journey through values. The careful planning, knowledgeable trek leaders, and the emphasis on mindful experiences made it a trek to remember.
I have been trekking with IndiaHikes since 2014 and I am happy to say that the organization has been consistent with its original principles. The trek routes in IndiaHikes are designed in such a way as to avoid the crowd if any in more popular treks. I like that the organization is constantly evolving to be better every day. From the small but significant innovations like the water contraption for washing plates to the big improvements like equipment rentals, they have thought of every aspect in protecting nature and the mountains. They are making a huge impact in the lives of people by educating us about waste reduction, waste management and recycling in line with their green trails initiative. These values are also taught to kids thus making an even bigger impact because they are the future. Everyone in the team believes genuinely in the values of the organization is the most important aspect of any organization and this is what differentiates IndiaHikes from other organizations. After 7 treks with IndiaHikes I would love to complete many more with this organization as I completely trust them.
Something special happened to me on my recent trek to Surya Top.
I booked the trek in February. Subsequently, I was informed by my family priest that my mother's death anniversary (Thithi) fell on 23 Jun, the first day of the trek. It appeared that my only two options were to either cancel the trek, or not perform her "Shraddha" on the designated day. Neither an attractive option.
A quick Whatsapp message to Debadrita, our EC (who had done Nafran valley with me two years ago) led to an introduction to Akshay, the slope manager, who contacted the local priest in Raithal. At 6:00 am, at the local temple, within view of the magnificent Gangotri range, I performed my mother's Shraddha ceremony.
He concluded in time to let me join the rest of the team for breakfast and start walking on time. I'm sure my mother would've been very happy with the outcome. The IH staff really made me feel like I was cared for.
Over the years, I've also seen how you guys have evolved from being trek organizers to becoming the creators of a movement. Kudos must go to you, as the leader, for driving this. All the best and wish you much success.
We did the Dayara Bugyal trek with India Hikes in September 2023 and thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. I personally loved the way IH paid attention to small details to make the trek, not just safe, but truly enriching. The emphasis on leaving the mountains cleaner than we found them and the importance of having a keen eye on keeping the team together and encouraging the stragglers are lessons that help make good trekkers and great human beings. We returned rejuvenated and exhilarated from the trek. In many ways, we returned more aware and possibly more sensitive towards nature. I am convinced this could not have happened without the special handling by Team India Hikes! Look forward to VOF next!
Being a sustainability professional it was natural for me to choose yet another organization that has strong values around it - Indiahikes. The Green trails initiative is focused on reducing litter and waste from trails. Most organisations just talk about sustainability. Rarely do they implement it the way they talk about it. But what I noticed with Indiahikes was different. Everything they spoke to us about was being implemented on ground. It wasn’t just the leader, but it trickled down to every last member working at Indiahikes. Every person we met was sensitive about the environment, which I have rarely seen in any organisation. What I appreciated was that the communication about sustainability started with trekkers much in advance, weeks before we started our trek. We were told not to carry wet wipes, disposables, and made to understand why these were harmful in the mountains. Whether it is the spotless bio toilets, or fixed camps, or equipment to reduce water wastage, or effort to clean the mountains using eco bags, I saw a kind of rigour to follow sustainability practices that can only be ingrained very deeply in the organisation, from the top management to every last person. Sustainability takes time, but it has happened through and through at Indiahikes.
I have done seven treks with Indiahikes till date. And I’m looking forward to doing many more. Indiahikes gives a great trek experience every time - which maybe others can match. But find me another trekking agency that gives detailed information about treks they don’t run. Or one that rescues stranded or unwell trekkers of other agencies. Or one that brings down tons of garbage from the mountains to keep them pristine. Or one that lets you do the same trek more than once, for free, with no questions asked. Indiahikes does all of this and more. My better half has been inspired enough to take their environment initiatives to the cities. My kids have become veteran trekkers and can’t wait to get back to the mountains. We have made like-minded friends for life across the country. I don’t think I would want to trek with any other agency. Thank you for everything.
Choosing Indiahikes for my trekking adventures has proven to be a truly transformative decision, revealing a blend of extensive experience, unwavering commitment to safety, and a genuine dedication to responsible trekking practices that align seamlessly with my values. As someone who finds meaning not only in reaching mountain peaks but also in cherishing the entire journey, Indiahikes has consistently surpassed my expectations, turning each trek into a profound adventure. What truly sets Indiahikes apart is its commitment to offering a diverse range of treks catering to all levels of trekkers. Whether it's a leisurely weekend escape or a challenging adventure for seasoned enthusiasts, Indiahikes ensures there's a trek aligned with my preferences and available time. This diversity reflects a thoughtful approach, recognizing the varied aspirations and expectations of trekkers, and has allowed me to tailor my experiences to match my personal journey. Safety has always been a primary concern for me in the mountains, and Indiahikes' unwavering commitment to meticulous safety measures has provided a reassuring sense of security. Every aspect is thoughtfully considered, from the careful maintenance of equipment to well-established emergency protocols. This assurance allows me to fully immerse myself in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, confident that every precaution has been taken care of. Moreover, Indiahikes' dedication to responsible trekking practices resonates deeply with my values. On a personal level, the consistently high-quality services provided by Indiahikes make each trek stress-free and truly enriching. From well-organized campsites to delectable meals, every detail is attended to, allowing me to focus on the profound beauty of the journey. For those seeking a secure, immersive, and values-aligned trekking adventure in the Himalayas, Indiahikes has undoubtedly become my go-to and highly recommended choice. Thanks and Regards Tarin Patel
The very first thing that appealed to me about IndiaHikes was their commitment to proper preparation. For several weeks before my trek actually started, the team was mailing me trek fitness tips. In fact, they have entire fitness routines designed to prepare us for any kind of trek (be it easy, moderate, hard, or something in between). There are blogs, infographics and youtube videos. And all these routines are well prepared and easy to follow. The second impressive thing about IndiaHikes is their dedication towards the preservation of nature. They have this concept of "green trails", where they teach water conservation and minimising your impact on the natural trail. They even enlist the trekkers' help to collect pieces of garbage that inevitably accumulate. And then they make sure to sort out the garbage and send it for recycling or proper disposal. And finally, I love that IndiaHikes doesn't behave like a for-profit organization. I felt that their policies, terms and conditions are designed towards providing a good trek experience for the customer, not to make money. In today's capitalist world, this is a breath of fresh air. Kudos!
From the first trek with India Hikes to my very recent one to Chattisgarh Jungle trek in 2023 I've perennially been enriched with experiences. On safety which Indiahikes often speak, I've witnessed their thought extends not just to their own trekkers but to others as well. On my Buran Ghati trek in 2019, we encountered a relentless 6-hour snow storm on our summit day. The trek ended up being a 14-hour one as against the usual 8-9 hours. Our trek leader Shyama saw to it that our entire group were closely kept together, during and after the rappelling and further on too. Keeping calm and instructing all of us to keep our extremities moving to allow circulation and encouraging the entire team and remaining pepped up, helped us walk all the way to the campsite. Having seen that the team was safe, he rushed back along with a couple of India hike team members to rescue two trekkers( who were not part of our team) who were lost and stranded whom he had seen while bringing down our team. They got one of them back on a stretcher to the campsite. Unfortunately, the other trekker lost his life by that time. Only on learning the shocking news the next morning, did our entire team realise in what a grave situation we all were in the previous evening but never seemed to know thanks to the adept way the leader and India hike guides handled it. They were so calm and assuring, kept the group in such a positive frame that we did not even realise the gravity of the situation and could go through the day safely. My respect and comfort to be with India Hikes has gone up plenty after that episode.
I recently had the pleasure of trekking with Indiahikes. This was my second trek with them and I must appreciate them for their exceptional commitment to ethical practices and high standards. From the very beginning, it was clear that the company prioritizes environmental sustainability and responsible trekking and hiking tours. Our guides during the trek were very particular about leaving no garbage behind principles, ensuring that our trek left minimal impact on the pristine landscapes we explored. They also actively engage themselves in local community initiatives, supporting conservation efforts in the regions where they operate, showcasing a genuine dedication to social responsibility. The company's commitment to transparency in its operations, including fair treatment of staff and transparent pricing, adds an extra layer of trust. Overall, trekking with India Hikes was not just an adventure; it was a journey guided by principles that align with responsible tourism, environmental stewardship, and community development.
Indiahikes core value starts with Environmental sustainability. As the name suggests, The Green Trails initiative focuses on minimizing the ecological impact of treks by practicing Leave No Trace principles, and waste management. This is one of the best practices I am going to follow in my day-to-day routine. The seasoned trek leaders, who are experts in the region having a deep understanding of the terrain, and culture, explained to us the speciality of each section of the trek including the significance of the region, trees, animals, flowers, local tribes and birds. We also heard mythological and historical stories from the trek leaders. Trek's design was very diverse in terms of scenic routes. It helped me develop a deeper connection with my surroundings and contributed to having a more enriching trekking experience.
The meticulous design of the trek was apparent in every step. The route not only challenged and rewarded us physically but also provided moments for introspection and gratitude. This thoughtful design, with a balance between adventure and reflection, showcased a commitment to creating holistic trekking experiences. It demonstrated that India Hikes values not just the journey's destination but also the transformative process of the trek itself. Their ability to seamlessly integrate mindfulness into our activities, encouraging us to appreciate the journey beyond its physical aspects, was commendable. The emphasis on responsible trekking practices and genuine care for the well-being of both trekkers and the environment was evident throughout. It was evident that Indiahikes' values are not just stated but are actively integrated into the fabric of the trekking experience. My Hampta Pass trek was a testament to India Hikes' commitment to values that go beyond the superficial aspects of trekking. Thank you for providing an experience that not only showcased the grandeur of the mountains but also allowed for a profound connection with the values that define your organization.
Indiahikes are custodians of a profound ethos that permeates every step of their trek journey. What struck me most about my trek with Indiahikes was their unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible trekking. The guides and support staff were not only well-versed in the terrain but also deeply knowledgeable about waste management and the fragile ecosystems we were traversing. Their emphasis on the 'Leave mountains cleaner and better than we enter them' principle went beyond rhetoric; it was a guiding philosophy that shaped every aspect of our trek. The values of Indiahikes became palpable as I observed their dedication to fostering a genuine connection with the local communities. The respectful engagement with the villagers at the end of my trek, providing them with cold and flu meds that we had, showcased a commitment to responsible tourism, ensuring that our presence left a positive impact on the regions we explored.
Having done 4 treks with Indiahikes and already booked the fifth, I had to ask myself why am I not trying another trekking company? Well right from my first trek with Indiahikes to Hemkund Sahib and Valley of Flowers, I have been impressed by the systematic way the trek is conducted with pre-trek video meets, question answer sessions, the ever ready Trek coordinators who clarify all our nagging doubts, ifs and buts. Also the very conscious effort of the team at any of their treks to leave the trails clean by picking up trash and segregating it. The trek leaders are well trained, knowledgeable and medically well equipped- hence I have felt secure with any team of Indiahikes I have trekked with. The magnificent and majestic mountains have a lot to teach us- and I'm eagerly looking forward to my next trek with India hikes.
I used to consider myself more of a solo DIY trekker but my affair with Indiahikes was nothing short of transformative. The ethos of the organization was tangible in every aspect of the trek, from the thoughtful design of our experience (not just the trek or the journey) to the mindful interactions facilitated by our trek leader. The core values of Indiahikes, such as sustainable trekking, respect for local cultures, and fostering a sense of community among trekkers, were not just communicated but experienced. The care and attention put into minimizing our environmental footprint were truly commendable. From the green and yellow Eco bags to the waste management systems we really did end up making a difference as a team. There was minimal waste generation and we would actually end up leaving a place better than how we found it. This unique blend of adventure, sustainability, culture, and personal growth is what sets Indiahikes apart. I am proud to be a part of this wonderful community.
I absolutely loved the deep care and strong belief in leaving things (and humans) better than you find them - that drives the staff at IndiaHikes. IndiaHikes also designs trekking as a leadership journey - while maintaining highest standards of hygiene, discipline and safety, they still compel you to push yourself outside your comfort zone. Various moments teach you to be mindful of your actions and their impact on others On a trek with IndiaHikes, each moment is a teachable one - whether it is learning to walk silently, to listen to your inner self and the first, or to ponder about the wisdom that nature carries or building everlasting bonds with fellow trekkers. On these treks, people are their authentic selves which leads to strong bonds. In the past four months, I have already been on bird-watching and camping trips with the friends we made there. On my trek, I learned to find beauty and magnificence in little things and slow events, rather than seeking something 'big' or 'eventful'. Lastly, I feel that their mission outsizes the company. From simple leadership lessons through role reversals to teaching how to navigate on treks using GPS apps - the love for trekking as a transformational experience is at the core of everything that you do.
At 61+, it wasn’t an easy decision to plunge in this adventure of trekking. As I threw myself in Indiahikes Dayara Bugyal trek, I found myself very close to the values ingrained in my life.I think “everyone must trek” is a very much relevant concept in today’s India, as it helps build one’s character, and more importantly, it is a very good, action-oriented, leadership development tool, irrespective of age. I found the actions on treks were truly “Pushing my Boundary” both physically and mentally. I could relate to Indiahikes well-documented vision through everyday action on trek and tent. Simply because of how Indiahikes conducts their treks, I quickly pursued my second trek, Sandakphu, 6 weeks after I completed the 1st one on 28 Sept 2023. Waiting for my next trek, possibly sooner.
If you prefer professional safe trekking and love the environment with a strong sense of sustainability, Indiahikes is the best choice to visit the Himalayas. From the very first moment, the thorough health check and the detailed briefing made us feel that we made the right choice. Every day and every hour IndiaHikes focuses on 3+1 things: Safety, Health, environment protection, and of course the plus one: enjoy the hike, and bring home several experiences that you will remember for a lifetime - and that's a guarantee. One thing I need to highlight: camping in the middle of nowhere, just using the limited groceries the porters can bring, I had one of the best meals of my life - the group cooked us better meals than the ones I tried in Delhi. If you want to get beautiful memories, see amazing places, test your limits, and do it in a safe organized way: IndiaHikes is the best choice you can make! :)
I have done two treks with Indiahikes and arranged for my daughter to do a summer camp with Indiahikes as well. Both my treks have been excellent experiences for me. My daughter also loved her trek camp, so much so that she is planning on returning to the camp this year again. In my first trek with IndiaHikes, I realised that IndiaHike's approach to organising a trek was near perfect and meticulous. So much so that I think that it can't be any better. They keep trekker safety as a priority. The team members of Indiahikes the trek leaders, guides, cooks and all helpers inspire confidence. Both of my trek leaders have been wonderful. They just didn't lead the trek, but they also got involved with everyone at a level and took such good care of everyone that they appeared to be superhumans! They show so much patience with everyone! The food on the trek is excellent, always! The camping sites are selected with utmost care, and it's always amazing to stay at such. nice locales. We trek, and then we do something more, some activities, and in the process enrich ourselves.
Indiahikes is known for its strong commitment to sustainability and creating meaningful trekking experiences. They actively promote eco-friendly practices, urging trekkers to leave no trace and minimize their environmental impact. Beyond just the adventure, They design treks as opportunities for experiential learning, aiming to deepen participants' connection with nature and foster a greater appreciation for the environment. Choosing Indiahikes means not only exploring beautiful landscapes but also doing so with a focus on responsible trekking and a genuine connection to the surroundings.
Having a monotonous job life made me want to pull myself out, to live in the wild and be spontaneous. And that's how I happen to get the India Hiked! Their key motto is to educate and support the sense that "Everyone must trek". And every step along the way, we also get to cling on to the same. That's how the whole experience is built around the same value. Be it a First time trekker or Experienced you get taught and treated the same. Apart from the views and summit walk, our expectations get grounded with the way the trek is built and witnessed. All I can say is you will be awakened from everything that you seek, look and feel. I am glad that my first was the best with IH.
For last 10 years I have been traveling solo and covered almost 15+ States of India & 5 international trips. From the very start my experience with Indiahikes was smooth. They train us remotely and after submitting valid data of fitness only we get approval for trekking that shows how an organised trekking company works. Indiahikes takes different routes as compared to other trekking assistance groups or individuals, and because of that the route is not crowded with other trekkers. The camp locations are clean and planned on perfect locations where you can enjoy breathtaking views during your stays at camps. The concept of green Trek & taking a small bag with you to collect small plastic or any kind of waste during your trekking is what makes India hikes stand separate. It was not like after our summit, the duty of Indiahikes team was over. Even at the time of coming down from the summit, they will guide you & be with you. I was totally a different person after spending 5 days with India hikes. The importance of food shelter & nature in my life has changed after this trekking experience with Indiahikes.
I started trekking with Indiahikes in 2019, along with my daughter Nitya. I was introduced by a very dear friend of mine, who passed away last year. I was always fond of trekking during my school days, but didn’t know how to start again, after marriage. I, along with my daughter have done 6 hikes with them. Indiahikes, I feel has a very good organisational setup, where everything is planned in detail, just like a Corporate. Right from detailed information about a trek, booking and experience, everything is smooth and easy. The work ethics of all the Trek Leaders are superb, as they are personally recruited by Mr. Arjun Majumdar, after careful scrutinisation. I have become more fitness-conscious and conscious about not littering, where ever I go. Thanks to Indiahikes, I have seen a different world, which is extremely beautiful and untouched. I hike only with Indiahikes.
I chose India Hikes for my first solo trek to Kedarkantha in the month of December and what an experience! I say experience because those 5 days not only gave me good memories or exposed me to a new place but also left a mark on my life. I want to mention my top 3 things about the trek besides the fact that they had the best facilities, food, and the secluded route. Firstly, we were a family there and the reason we became a family was the Indiahikes team, I have never met a more humble and helpful bunch of people. Second, their green trails initiative for a sustainable community and a sustainable lifestyle. They do not only preach but also do things, I won’t lie I still think twice while using or throwing away any plastic. Third, we did not only trek but learned the basic surviving skills for future (solo) treks. Their idea of trekking was, “Everyone must trek”. The team was very knowledgeable and made sure we learned from them. I was scared that would I be able to do the summit. However, I did it and this experience could not have been any better without India Hikes.
The best thing that I loved about India Hikes is that it makes you realize the importance of nature, and how the plastic waste is impacting the climate. It makes you enjoy the moment, for example while everyone was clicking photos nobody was actually living in that very moment, to which Yashwant called us all, asked us to keep our mobiles away and just sit and not talk just feel that breeze passing. At that moment I realized how small our issues are. I realized how beautiful it would have been to live in that very moment and not think about the past, or future. I saw one by one people removing their shoes just to feel the earth beneath their skin. That moment we realized the importance of everything we have got, the importance of being healthy.
I couldn't have picked a better team than Indiahikes on my last journey. From their user-friendly website to seamless group communication and established protocols, the groundwork for an eco-friendly, smooth journey was laid even before our trek commenced. Indiahikes demonstrated unwavering commitment, clear goals, impeccable discipline, and boasted a team that exuded high motivation and involvement – both at the base camp and during the hike itself. These attributes collectively transformed several days on the trail into an immersive experience, seamlessly blending with the awe-inspiring beauty of nature and mountains during the strenuous activity that is hiking. The mission, vision, and core values of Indiahikes not only resonated with me but also made me an avid fan and an integral part of their community. I wholeheartedly endorse them, readily offering my reference to anyone inquiring, and consider myself a potential repeat customer due to the outstanding experience they provided.
"Trekking is transformative..!! it is a life changing experience" This is something I read on your website last year. And what I want to share with you today, is my transformative journey.
We booked the trek for Apr2024 and started preparing as per the guidance from the videos. Though I have always been a regular at the gym,I was not running much. But this new endeavour I had undertaken, brought motivation. By April, I was able to run 5Kms in 38min. That was the first transformation, which happened even before I went for the trek. :)
Plenty of learnings from the trek:
- Minimalism, the perks of keeping your life simple and close to nature.
- A sense into how little we actually need and how much we accumulate.
- An insight into what really matters in life, valuing experiences over things.
- A feeling of gratitude and appreciation for what we have, without all the time worrying about what we don't have.
- After 5 days of using dry bio toilets and not bathing, an attached bathroom of my home seemed like a luxury :-)
- As a woman, travelling alone has always been a worrisome affair. Indiahikes makes it possible for women to explore the world without depending on anyone to accompany us. This is truly empowering.
I am extremely pleased that I got an opportunity to go through this journey, even happier that my son has embraced it. With the values and learnings from such experiences, I am sure he will be able to make wise choices in life and navigate the challenges thrown at him.
Read Prachi's full trek experience here
When a trekker who has trekked all over the world appreciates you, it makes me feel very, very happy. It makes me believe our journey is worthwhile; together, we are all creating something magical. Thank you, team Indiahikes.
Dear Arjunji and Sandhyaji,
I hope you are well. My name is Sofia Salas and I have been meaning to write this email for over a month, the time has finally come.
I’ll start with the most important: WOW and THANK YOU! I did the Har Ki Dun trek on November 3rd, as part of a 9 week long trip in India. During my time in this wonderful country, I had some amazing experiences and now I can say without a doubt that the trek was the highlight.
When I started planning my trip, I knew only a couple of things and one of them was that I wanted to feel and see the Himalayas. As a long time mountain lover and trekker, I felt the mountains were calling me. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to experience them.
I have done many treks and adventure trips in different parts of the world, and this was the most professional, well organized and sustainable trek I have done. I want to express my admiration and gratitude for the company and life project that you have created; it feels like a work of love.
From the very first moment, Mokshada -who also went on the trek as a participant and made it even more unforgettable-, Vinay, the two Kuldeeps and all of the kitchen team, and all the team in general were so kind and made sure we had the best experience, and one could feel that is all the result of an intentional work culture and mission.
I am originally from Colombia, and I currently live in Mexico City. If you where visit either of the two countries, please do let me know. I would love to take to some of our beautiful mountains and other wonderful ecosystems.
Until the next trek!
Best regards,
Sofia
I’d like to start by saying that “Indiahikes and trekking has changed my life in a way that I can only call a profound transformation”. 1. Impact of Trekking on my health - Physical, mental and emotional I’ve always been active and outdoorsy. But I started a regular exercise routine only after my first trek in 2022. Since then, I’ve fallen in love with running. At the beginning even 5K was difficult; but now a 10K excites me, and I look forward to the runs and improving myself day by day. 2. Why Indiahikes? Safety - Indiahikes has made my journey a solo female traveller possible and safe. Trek leaders and guides are extremely capable and knowledgeable, and they treat each trekker with respect, love and kindness. Green Trails initiative - “Leaving the mountains better than we found”, I’ve carried this mantra of IH into my daily life in the city. I’ve started to carry basic utensils (Tiffin box, mug, spoon, and straw) everywhere, trying to do my best to reduce plastic and single-use items from shops. Inclusiveness - I’ve found my people, my tribe through IH. In my 4 treks, I’ve met so many like-minded people, created amazing memories, and experienced beautiful friendships and connections that I’ll cherish forever. Overall, I believe, Indiahikes has made me a better, stronger and kinder human being; and I do secretly wish to join this family one day. :)