If you are searching for a trek that feels raw, quiet and close to nature, Monal Top Trek is the perfect choice. Hidden above Wan village in Chamoli, this short Himalayan trail gives you dense forests, open ridges and sunrise views that feel unforgettable. It is named after the Himalayan Monal, the rainbow colored state bird of Uttarakhand that can often be spotted along the route.

The trek starts from Wan, a traditional Himalayan village with stone houses and calm surroundings. As soon as you enter the forest, you feel the shift. Oak and rhododendron trees line the path, the breeze feels fresh and the silence is soothing. The trail gradually opens into meadows and ridges with wide views of Trishul and Chaukhamba glowing in the distance. Reaching the top during sunrise is a different kind of magic. The golden light hits the peaks and paints the entire horizon in soft colors.

Monal Top Trek is short, beginner friendly and perfect for weekend travelers. You get the real Himalayan vibe without steep climbs or long travel hours. The calmness of the forest, the open ridge walk and the early morning glow make this trek a great pick for nature lovers, photographers and solo travelers.

Best Time to Visit Monal Top Trek

March to June

Green forests, blooming rhododendrons and comfortable temperatures. Great for beginners.

September to November

Clear skies, amazing sunrise views and crisp mountain visibility. Ideal for photography and peaceful trekking.

December to February

Snow covered trail, quiet forest and a beautiful winter feel. Carry proper warm layers.

Avoid the monsoon season due to slippery forest trails.

Why You Should Do This Trek

Monal Top is one of the few treks that still feels untouched and peaceful. You get a mix of dense forests, huge sunrise views and a chance to spot the Himalayan Monal. The trek is short but rewarding, making it perfect for beginners, solo trekkers or anyone needing a quiet escape. It delivers big views without difficult climbs.

Packing Checklist for Monal Top Trek Clothing

• Warm padded jacket

• Fleece layer

• Thermals for night

• Two quick dry t shirts

• Trek pants

• Warm cap and gloves

• Rain jacket or poncho

Footwear

• Trekking shoes with good grip

• Woolen socks

• Lightweight slippers for camp

Gear

• Forty liter backpack

• Headlamp with spare batteries

• Trekking poles

• Water bottle

• UV protected sunglasses

Toiletries and Essentials

• Sunscreen

• Lip balm

• Hand sanitizer

• Wet wipes

• Basic first aid kit

Extras

• Camera or phone

• Power bank

• Energy bars

• Small towel

Travel Guide: Rishikesh to Wan Village

Rishikesh to Karnaprayag

Start early and take a bus or shared taxi from Rishikesh toward Karnaprayag. The route follows the Ganga and Alaknanda rivers and takes around five to six hours.

Karnaprayag to Tharali

From Karnaprayag, take a shared jeep to Tharali. The valley opens up with scenic mountain views on both sides.

Tharali to Wan Village

Take another jeep from Tharali to Wan. The drive passes through forests and hillside villages before reaching the trek starting point.

Total Travel Duration

About eight hours to ten hours in total, depending on road conditions.