The best walks and hikes in the Aravali Range

The Aravali Range offers a variety of hiking routes. Our guide features 5 curated hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to moderate treks, primarily around Udaipur and Mount Abu.

The best time for outdoor activities, especially trekking in the Aravali Range, is during the cooler winter months, from November to February. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring. During late winters (February-March), you can also witness the 'Flame of the Forest' (Khakhara) blooming, painting the landscape with striking red colors.

Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Jagdish Temple – City Palace Udaipur loop from Udaipur is an easy 6.6 km path exploring historic areas. Another easy option is the Nakki Lake loop from Mount Abu, a shorter 2.4 km trail around the scenic lake.

The Aravali Range is a crucial habitat for diverse fauna. Hikers might spot rare animals such as sloth bears, striped hyenas, leopards, bluebulls, and numerous bird species. Areas like Sariska National Park and Jhalana Leopard Reserve are particularly known for wildlife viewing, though direct encounters on general hiking trails are less common but possible.

Absolutely. The Aravali Range is rich in history and culture. You can explore ancient ruins and temples. For example, the Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features an impressive wall over 36 kilometers long. The Ranakpur Jain Temple is another stunning site with intricate carvings. Near Udaipur, you can hike past historic areas like Jagdish Temple and City Palace.

Many trails in the Aravali Range are designed as loops, offering convenient circular routes. Examples include the moderate View of Lake Pichola – Gangaur Ghat loop from Udaipur, which is 11.7 km, and the easy Jagdish Temple – Pathway to City Viewpoint loop from Udaipur, a 5.8 km urban trail.

The Aravali Range is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the historical significance of the sites encountered, and the opportunities for scenic views, especially around lakes and city viewpoints.

While our current guide focuses on easy to moderate routes, the Aravali Range does offer more challenging options for experienced hikers. Treks like Raghunathgarh are known for dense forests and unique rock formations. The Guru Shikhar trek near Mount Abu also provides a more demanding experience with panoramic views.

Yes, during the monsoon season, the trails in the Aravali Range are transformed with seasonal waterfalls and streams, adding to the scenic beauty. The Galta Ji Temple trek near Jaipur, for instance, is known for its wonderful views of waterfalls and natural springs.

For general hiking trails, specific permits are usually not required. However, if you plan to enter wildlife sanctuaries or national parks like Sariska or Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, there may be entry fees or specific regulations regarding access and timings. It's always advisable to check local guidelines for protected areas.

Hiking in the Aravali Range offers a variety of picturesque landscapes. You'll traverse rolling hills, semi-dry deciduous forests with rich floral diversity, and scenic valleys. The region is characterized by ancient granite and quartzite formations, providing unique geological interest.

Many trails in the Aravali Range provide stunning viewpoints. The Jagdish Temple – Pathway to City Viewpoint loop from Udaipur offers excellent city views. Additionally, treks to Nahargarh Fort near Jaipur and Guru Shikhar in Mount Abu are renowned for their breathtaking panoramic vistas.