1. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand A monsoon wonderland, this trail bursts into bloom with over 300 alpine species inside the Nanda Devi Biosphere. Entry is carefully regulated, and the area remains plastic-free to protect its fragile ecosystem. Best time to visit: July to early September, when the valley is in full bloom.
2. Dzongri Trek, Sikkim The trail offers forested paths and panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, with Sikkim enforcing a strict no-plastic policy. Trekkers are encouraged to carry refillable essentials, even at high altitudes. Best time to visit: April to June and September to mid-November, when the skies are clear and views are breathtaking.
3. Kudremukh Trek, Karnataka Rolling green hills stretch inside this protected tiger reserve in the Western Ghats. Permits are mandatory, camping is restricted, and plastic is completely banned to protect the biodiversity here. Best time to visit: Post-monsoon, from September to February, when the landscape is lush and the weather pleasant.
4. Tarsar Marsar Trek, Kashmir This trek features alpine lakes, grassy meadows, and untouched, pristine landscapes. Trekkers must carry back all non-biodegradable waste, with no stalls or packaged goods available en route. Best time to visit: July to September, when the trails are snow-free and the valleys are vibrant with greenery.
5. Har Ki Dun, Uttarakhand Known as the ‘Valley of Gods’, this cradle-shaped valley is dotted with ancient villages and riverside trails. Eco-tourism initiatives here support local homestays and encourage responsible trekking. Best time to visit: March to June and September to December, for comfortable trekking conditions.
6. Coorg Forest Trails, Karnataka These misty hills and rainforest trails wind through coffee estates managed sustainably by local growers. Composting toilets and regular trail clean-ups are common practices here. Best time to visit: October to March, when the weather is cool and dry.
7. Triund Trek, Himachal Pradesh Once heavily overused, this trail overlooking the Dhauladhars has been rejuvenated through efforts by Waste Warriors. Today, plastic use and open fires are banned, and trekkers must return with all their waste. Best time to visit: March to June and September to December, for clear views and mild weather.
8. Chatakpur, West Bengal This eco-village inside the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary offers solar-lit homestays and curated walking trails, all managed by local conservation groups. Best time to visit: October to March, when the air is crisp and the Himalayan views are clear.