Being one with nature is the perfect antidote to the chaotic existence of city life. Taking a long trek on trails crisscrossing through lush greens is perhaps the best way to let the serenity work its charm on you. All our prominent metro cities have a plethora of such retreats in their vicinities. Here are best trekking destinations to explore from Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru:

Best Treks to Take from Delhi

Triund Trek

Nestled in the lap of Dhauladhar ranges, Triund is best known for awe-inspiring views of natures’ craftsmanship. The trek begins from McLeodganj.

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Best Time: March to May, September to December

Altitude: 9,500 ft

How to Reach: Drive down or take an overnight bus from Delhi to Dharamshala, which is a short distance from McLeodganj.

Other places to explore: Bhagsu waterfall, Namgyal Monastery

Tickle your taste buds: Momos at quaint Tibetan cafes

Where to stay: Adventure Club Triund Camp

Read more: 5 Best Places for Snorkelling in India

Binsar Trek

It makes for one of the most picturesque trekking destinations in the entire Kumaon region. Trek begins from Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse animal and plant species.

Difficulty Level: Easy

Best Time: March to October

Altitude: 8,000 ft

How to Reach: Drive down or take a train up to Kathgodam and then hire a taxi to reach Binsar National Park

Other places to explore: Pariyadeva Pashan, Khali Estate

Tickle your taste buds: Local dishes like Kumaoni raita and buransh – squash made from rhododendron flowers.

Where to stay: Binsar Eco Camp

Best Treks to Take from Mumbai

Torna Trek

This versatile trek through the Sahyadri ranges is a treat to the eyes with breathtaking views all along the way. Mumbaikars can start the trek from Velhe that falls on the Pune-Satara highway.

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Best Time: Monsoon and winter

Altitude: 4,609 ft

How to Reach: Drive up to Velhe or take a night train to Pune and then early morning bus to Velhe from Swargate bus stand

Other places to explore: Panshet Dam, Madhe Ghat

Tickle your taste buds: Vada pav at local food stalls near balekilla of Torna fort

Where to stay: Hotel Sagar Plaza near Pune railway station

Lohagad Fort Trek

This trek right up to the summit of the ‘iron fort’ or Lohagad is all about walking nature’s own green carpet dotted with vibrant wild flowers. Those in Mumbai can set out on this refreshing day-long trek from Lonavala.

Difficulty Level: Easy

Best Time: Monsoon

Altitude: 3,450 ft

How to Reach: Drive down or take either a Pune-bound train or a local shuttle train up to Malavali railway station

Other places to explore: Bhaje Caves

Tickle your taste buds: Famous Lonavala chikki

Where to stay: V Resorts Lonavala

Read more: Adventurous Weekend Getaways From Pune

Best Treks to Take from Bengaluru

Anthargange Trek

Traversing through massive volcanic boulders, this trek makes for a truly exhilarating experience. Right before the endpoint, you’ll be greeted by a stone bull spouting out water from an unknown source – that’s where Anthargange, meaning Ganges of the Deep, gets its name from.

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Best Time: October to March

Altitude: 5,616 ft

How to Reach: Drive down or take a state transport bus

Other places to explore: Anthargange caves, adventure sports like rappelling

Tickle your taste buds: Local delicacies at hotels in  Kolar

Where to stay: Sai Dham, Kolar

Kabbaladurga Night Trek

The night trek to this monolith hillock on the outskirts of Bengaluru offers an idyllic combination of nocturnal mysticism, fascinating trails and scenic environs. The one-and-a-half-hour trek begins at around 1 am. Enjoy camping around a bonfire as you wait at the peak for the sun to spread its morning glory.

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Best Time: September to February

Altitude: 3,234 ft

How to Reach: Drive down or hire a cab

Other places to explore: Goddess Kabbalamma temple and the historic fort atop Kabbaladurga

Tickle your taste buds: South Indian breakfast

Where to stay: Camp in tents

Are you ready to bring out that rucksack and walking shoes for the next weekend?