Welcome to the Nag Tibba Trek, one of the most exciting places near Mussoorie and a must-visit for all trek-lovers!
At 9,910 ft, the Serpent Peak is the highest peak in the Nag Tibba range of the Garhwal Himalayas and has a lot of things to offer to its visitors. You’ll be happy to know that this trek is ideal for beginners.
The temperature in Nag Tibba remains pleasant throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 6 degrees at night in December to 25 degrees during the day in the summers. If you’re visiting during peak winters, you’ll start coming across patches of snow just ahead of the base camp. However, you’ll hit the real deal on the second day as you get nearer to the Tibba Top. Don’t forget to pack your snow gaiters and trekking poles on this day! The view of Spiti on one side and the Bandarpoonch on the other will make you believe that heaven really does exist!
The Nag Tibba trek challenges the myth that the harder and longer the trek, the better the view and the more memorable the experience. You’ll be surprised to know that the total distance covered during the trek is only 25 km, making it ideal for beginners. However, the altitude covered during the second day of the guided trek is relatively higher and can get steep in parts. So, be ready to huff and puff a bit!
There are two possible routes to take on this trek, one via Auntar village and the other via Patwari Village, which converge at Nag Mandir. This trekking experience takes you along the Patwari village, starting with a gentle incline that gets steeper in parts and takes you to the charming Goat Village. This quaint little hamlet makes for an ideal pit stop where you can fill up your water bottles before continuing on your ascent.
The Garhwal Himalayas are not only known for their stunning vistas but also for their wide range of flora, including beautiful wildflowers that add color to the scene. To make the most of this trekking experience, one can take the other route to descend. Thus, you’ll have the opportunity of taking in new vistas while covering the same distance!
Beginners looking for a winter trek in North India have limited options, but Nag Tibba is open year-round! The best time to undertake the trek is during the summer season, from April to June, or the winter season, from October to December. It’s best to avoid undertaking the trek during the monsoon season, especially without an expert guide, as the rainfall can dampen your experience and make the path slippery and dangerous.
If you’re a first-timer, it’s always better to plan ahead and start exercising at least two weeks in advance to prepare for the trek. Since you’ll climb to the Nag Tibba top, which boasts an elevation of 3022 m, doing yoga to strengthen your lungs is also a viable option! Make sure to get lots of pictures clicked with your co-travelers, as you’ll end up forming a memorable bond with them over the trek!