Article Published On - 18-04-2025
Himachal Pradesh offers trekkers both well-established paths as well as lesser-known treks that remain unknown, offering unexpected delights – the Hatu Peak trek being an example. This day trek provides an intoxicating taste of what a full Himalayan trek experience could be like, with lush pine forests, stunning mountain panoramas, picturesque meadows, and even snow walking possible if timed correctly. Starting from Narkhanda, which is located 63 km outside Shimla, this trek makes an excellent weekend escape from Delhi. Beginning your adventure during March’s early weeks will bring with it stunning, unspoiled snowfall; the Hatu Peak trek leads up the famed Hatu Hill summit for incredible panoramic views over Narkhanda while eventually arriving at Hatu Mata Shrine, revered among locals.
April-June brings beautiful weather, stunning trees and clear skies; July-September monsoon mist brings lush vegetation with leeches sometimes present; while in October-November crisp air and golden forests offer better visibility.
December – March: An ideal time and place for snow trekking, offering stunning snow-covered landscapes (though more effort may be necessary).
But be wary of heavy monsoon rains (late July to early Sept) which could result in slippery treks and poor visibility, and therefore increase effort levels required.
Amazing Panoramas of the Himalayan Mountains Covered in Snow, including Shrikhand Mahadev and Kinnaur ranges
Beautiful Forest The treks pass through deodar, oak, and conifer forests for a beautiful forest experience.
Quick Escape from Shimla. It can be completed within one day or over a weekend.
Hatu Mata Temple stands atop an ancient site and is dedicated to Goddess Mandodari (wife of Ravana).
Spring/Summer Flora – wildflowers, berries, and dense greenery
Winter Wonderland – an expanse of snowy carpet covering the ground from December until March (ideal for snow treks).
1-Day Trek: The starting point is Narkanda (2,700 meters)- Then trek up to Hatu Peak (~3,400 m)- Return to Narkanda
From Narkhanda, follow the path leading towards Thanedar for approximately one kilometer until reaching an intersection where three roads meet in a spacious area surrounded by towering pine trees. At this intersection, there will be three narrow paths, of which one ascends directly into a pine forest with help from signboards guiding your journey. Immediately on entering, you’ll be struck by its beauty, with majestic towering pines likely dating back centuries based on their impressive size.
As it curves eastward, it begins a gentle ascent through an expansive stand of pine trees now bathed in sunlight. Stay on this isolated road for another hour as it winds around the mountain’s slope, eventually opening up into a small but peaceful glade on your left and offering breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan range peaks. Double back and climb further until reaching a large clearing marked by a cluster of flat-roofed huts used by local shepherds.
Gujjar Kotha is a small pond boasting breathtaking mountain range views, making it the ideal spot to rest. After traveling on the road for about one kilometre, it will make a sharp right turn towards the south, shifting away from its associated ridgeline. Once off the road and on to your journey of discovery, this is where it all begins. Your journey towards Hatu Peak begins here – follow the ridge and take the marked trek into the forest; in March, expect snow-covered forest floors. Stay on the ridge without deviating to either side until you reach a road as it winds across it. Cross it and continue ascending along its length, passing pine and oak trees as your trek quickly gains elevation. Once on Hatu Peak, the trek generally travels east. At around 11,000 feet elevation and feeling breathless, however, a shortcut opens up onto its summit of Hatu Peak. As soon as you reach the summit, a stunning panorama of Himalayan mountains opens before your eyes. Take time to admire this natural splendour before enjoying lunch on top. Don’t forget to stop and see the Hatu Mata Temple while unwinding before beginning your descent via either your original path or using motor roads back downhill toward Narkhanda.
By Road: At approximately 65km away from Shimla via highway NH5, Narkanda lies approximately a 2.5 to 2 1/2-hour journey away by car.
Regular taxis and buses run between Shimla and Narkanda, providing access to public transport facilities.
There is also the option of driving to Delhi (approximately 400 kilometres between Chandigarh and Shimla on highway routes, approximately 9-10 hours via this method)
By Train: By Far, the nearest major station would be Shimla Railway Station.
Shimla is linked by a narrow-gauge train to Kalka (UNESCO Heritage) via a narrow-gauge track.
By Air: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti airport in Shimla, approximately 80km away from Narkanda.
Narkanda Airport provides access to local transport or taxis that are readily available.
Remember to always seek advice from a physician before consuming any medication.
Head Of Mountain Experts
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