Monsoon Escapes: India's Best Trails for Adventure Seekers

Eating hot corn cobs and sipping ginger tea while watching rainfall from your window is undoubtedly a picture-perfect scenario that never gets old. However, if you are a trail runner and embarking on a monsoon trek has been on your bucket-list since forever, Brooks Running has many ideas for you! 

Every region of India promises breathtaking experiences during monsoon. Read up, pick your direction, and head out on your escapade in your best trail running shoes! 

Monsoon treks in Northern India

For nature lovers, the impressive 11-kilometer-long Valley of Flowers is paradise on Earth! From orchids to daisies, be ready to feast your eyes on over 600 varieties of Himalayan flora and, if you're lucky, rare wildlife too! Just don’t forget your shoes for the monsoon to have a comfortable journey! 

Duration: 5-7 days

Level: Easy to moderate 

Things to carry: 

Lace up your trail shoes and set off to one of India's most phenomenal pass crossings. With the lush green valleys of Kullu on one side and the barren mountains of Lahaul on the other, witnessing these contrasting views as you tread along the Hampa pass will take your breath away! 

Duration: 4-6 days

Level: Moderate to difficult 

Other notable treks: 

Tarsar Marsar - Jammu and Kashmir, Warwan Valley Trek - Kashmir, Kashmir Great Lakes - Jammu & Kashmir, Indrahar Pass Trek - Himachal Pradesh, Bhrigu Lake - Himachal Pradesh, Pin Parvati Trek - Himachal Pradesh, Beas Kund - Himachal Pradesh.

Monsoon treks in Western India

If you are a history and culture buff, the state of Maharashtra, with nearly 350 forts, will take your fancy! The ancient Harishchandragad hill fort is famous among trekkers for its challenging uphill climb that rewards them with panoramic views, ancient temples, and fascinating caves. Remember to wear the best trail running shoes to avoid slips and falls!  

Duration: 2 days

Level: Difficult 

While Goa is well-known for its beaches and nightlife, the monsoon season unveils a different side of its natural beauty that tourists often overlook. One such hidden gem is Hukyachi Khadi, a small waterfall that comes alive only during rain. So, get your shoes for the monsoon and discover spice and rubber plantations, forests, creeks, and greenery on your journey to the cascade!

Duration: 1 day

Level: Easy

Browse the complete range of Brooks Running trail running shoes for women. 

Other notable treks: 

Sinhagad Trek - Maharashtra, Andharban - Maharashtra, Garbett Plateau - Matheran Maharashtra, Visapur Fort Trek - Maharashtra, Rajmachi - Lonavala Maharashtra, Torna Fort Trek - Pune.

Monsoon treks in Southern India

If you are an experienced trekker wishing to step up a notch, the Kumara Parvatha trek is your next challenge! Prepare your shoes for the monsoon for climbing Karnataka's fourth-highest peak. It offers plenty, from dense forests to stunning Western Ghat views. What's more, the sounds and sights of wildlife will keep you company if you are alert! 

Duration: 2 days

Level: Moderate to difficult

Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, is on every trekker's bucket list for its charming heart-shaped Chembra Lake. On the trail to this nature's love symbol, you will see tea plantations, misty valleys, cloud-laden cliffs, and a watchtower! 

Duration: 1 day

Level: Moderate to difficult

Other notable treks: Mullayanagiri Trek - Karnataka

Monsoon treks in Eastern India

The Dzongri trek begins from Yuksom, a small town in West Sikkim, and follows a well-defined trail crossing dense forests, monasteries, and waterfalls. Once you reach the viewpoint of Dzongri La, you will be rewarded with dramatic views of the majestic Kanchenjunga mountain range. However, the monsoon season can make the trail slippery and muddy, making it all the more reason to invest in good trail shoes. 

Duration: 9 days

Level: Moderate to difficult

Choose the best trail running shoes for your next adventure

Before you start planning your next adventure awaits you, remember that monsoon trails come with their challenges. To stay safe, ensure you have everything from the trekking essentials: rainwear, quick dry outfits, water bottle, rucksack with cover, waterproof covers for electronics, and most importantly, good-quality waterproof trail shoes. 

Brooks Running offers trail running shoes for women and men that prioritize safety and performance with unique features such as all-terrain stability, good traction, comfort, and rock & root protection.