8 Best Winter Treks in India

The mountains are the best places to visit during the winter season because of their mesmerizing views and white wonderland. The entire Himalayan region looks stunning, and any mountain trek would be fulfilling, but some treks stand out among others. Here are a few such treks in India that the DiscoveryHike is bringing forward for you to try out.

Index

✓ Kedarkanta Trek

✓ Brahmatal Trek

✓ Kuari Pass Trek

✓ Dayara Bugyal Trek

✓ Nag tibba Trek

✓ Gulabi kantha Trek

✓ Chopta-Chandrashila Trek

✓ Chadar Frozen River Trek

✓ Sandakphu-Phalut Trek

Why are these treks special?

✓ Breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges and peaks.

✓ Dream for any snow lover.

✓ Solitude and serenity.

✓ It’s less crowded than in the other seasons.

✓ Full of adventures and new experiences.

✓ Good opportunity to see rare animals.

✓ You can engage in different winter sports.

✓ Camping and photography in heavy snow conditions.

Why should you choose the Discovery Hike?

✓ Safe and secure travel experience.

✓ Good accommodation and food facilities.

✓ Affordable than other trekking companies.

✓ Experienced Trek Leaders and guides

✓ The trekking experience will be eco-friendly due to the low waste policy.

✓ We focus on community building and making the trek more informative.

Challenges of Winter Treks

✓ Extremely cold temperatures, especially during the night.

✓ Walking on snow and ice can be risky due to the chance of slipping and skidding.

✓ Low visibility due to heavy snowfall.

✓ Unpredictable weather

✓ The water supply is limited.

✓ Luggage becomes a burden due to heavy trekking gear.

Preparation

✓ Cardio exercises like running, jogging and cycling for better stamina and endurance.

✓ Squats, lunges and planks for better leg and core strength.

✓ Regular meditation and breathing exercises for mental strength and low oxygen circumstances.

Kedarkanta Trek

Area: Uttarakhand
Time: 5-6 days
Maximum Altitude: 12500 ft
Distance: 20 km
Grade: Easy to moderate
Best time to visit: December-April (for the winter trek)
Highlights: Juda ka Talab and panoramic views of Himalayan peaks.
Experience: Fit beginners and experienced

The Kedarkanta Trek will allow experience knee-deep snow and the majestic landscape of the Himalayan peaks. The trek starts at the small village of Sankri, which is full of rich culture and lively people. The Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch and Black Peak are visible from different parts of the trek. It is the perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature admirers. The trekkers can also experience dense coniferous forests and frozen lakes before reaching the Kedarkanta Summit. The sunrise from the top is much awaited by the trekkers. The scenic beauty around the trail of the Kedarkanta Trek is enhanced at sites like the Juda ka Talab and Hargaon. The overall experience of the Kedarkanta Trek makes it one of the best treks in India during the winter season.
If you are looking for a short and adventurous trek, there is nothing better than the Kedarkanta Trek. Click here to get a detailed description of the trek.

Brahmatal Trek

Area: Chamoli district, Uttarakhand
Time: 6 days
Maximum Altitude: 12250 ft
Distance: 24 km
Grade: Moderate
Best time to visit: December-March (for the winter trek)
Highlights: Bekaltal Lake and Brahmatal Lake along with views of Mt. Trishul.
Experience: Fit beginners

The Brahmatal Summit sits at the feet of Mt. Trishul. The views are amazing, especially from the Brahmatal Lake, which is the primary attraction of the trek. The Brahmatal Trek begins from Lohajung, where the trekkers can spend time with the locals and get to know the culture very well. The Mt. Nanda Ghunti also stands tall beside the other Himalayan peaks. The dense oak forests at the lower part of the trek are extremely calm and peaceful. The frozen lakes pose for the entire winter season for the photographers to capture the best shots. There are many narrow–ridge walks which adds more excitement to the Brahmatal Trek. The trek is of high spiritual value as Lord Brahma is said to have meditated near the Brahmatal Lake.
Brahmatal Trek is an amazing combination of adventure, spirituality and rich culture. So, are you excited for the Brahmatal Trek? Stop worrying and join the Discovery Hike Team. Click here for more details.

Kuari Pass Trek

Area: Garhwal region, Uttarakhand
Time: 6 days
Maximum Altitude: 12516 ft
Distance: 30 km
Grade: Easy to moderate
Best time to visit: December-April (for the winter trek)
Highlights: Stunning views of Mt. Nanda Devi and skiing opportunity at Auli.
Experience: Beginners

The Kuari Pass Trek starts from Joshimath and is popularly known as the Lord Curzon trail. The Himalayan peaks like Mt. Nanda Devi, Mt. Chaukhamba, Mt. Dronagiri and Mt. Kamet are the primary peaks visible from the trail. Auli is also a major attraction in the Kuari Pass Trek as it is the best Skiing destination in India. Some of the top skiers from different countries compete during the National Winter Games every year. Joshimath is well known for its cable car ride, which can also be a good experience. Layering is important during the trek as the temperatures are extremely low during the night. The trekkers should listen to the Trek Leaders for safety and a better trekking experience. The easy-to-moderate trail is suited for both experienced and beginners, provided they are fit. The trekkers should be able to run 5 km in under 35 minutes for the Kuari Pass Trek.
So, are ready to walk along the Lord Curzon trail? The natural beauty of the Kuari Pass Trek awaits you, and so does Auli. Click here for more details and join us soon.

Dayara Bugyal Trek

Area: Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand Time: 4-6 days
Maximum Altitude: 12100 ft
Distance: 25 km
Grade: Easy to moderate
Best time to visit: December to March (for the winter trek)
Highlights: Widespread meadows turned into white snowfields. Good for wildlife photographers.
Experience: Beginners

The Dayara Bugyal Trek is well known for its beginner-friendly trail and therefore, many families turn up to enjoy the stunning Himalayas. Although, winters are primarily less crowded. Hence, solitude seekers might find the winter season to be perfect for a dreamy Himalayan experience. The primary view of the Dayara Bugyal Trek is the meadows which are filled with lush greenery and colourful wildflowers in the Summer and Spring but the winter covers the meadows with a thick white blanket. Himalayan Monal and Griffin Vultures are quite common at higher altitudes. The trekkers can also witness the rare glimpses of Snow Leopard and Blue Sheep in some of the rocky patches.
The snowy wonderland, high in the Himalayas, hopes to see you soon. Are you excited as well? Join the Discovery Hike Team. Click here to get a complete guide about the Dayara Bugyal Trek.

Nag tibba Trek

Area: Mussoorie, Uttarakhand Time: 2 days/ 1 night
Maximum Altitude: 9915 ft
Distance: 16 km
Grade: Easy
Best time to visit: October-March (for the winter trek)
Highlights: Views of Himalayan peaks around.
Experience: Beginners and families

The Nagtibba Peak is popularly known as Serpent Peak because of the belief that it is the home of the Snake God. The Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Kedarnath and Gangotri peaks are visible, which can be quite overwhelming if you travelling for the first time. The Nagtibba Trek is a quick escape, from your 9 to 5 race, into the Himalayan beauty. The trails are thrilling and give the trekkers a serene experience, which takes them away from the mental chaos. The altitude of the trek is also not very high, making it suitable for inexperienced trekkers.
Are you cramped with your tight schedule and only find time during the weekends? The Discovery Hike Team urges you to take up the Nagtibba Trek and experience the Himalayas with your families.

Gulabi kantha Trek

Area: Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand
Time: 4 days/ 3 nights
Maximum Altitude: 12000 ft
Distance: 20 km
Grade: Easy to moderate
Best time to visit: December-February (for the winter trek)
Highlights: Shivalik and Chaukhamba peaks and rich local culture.
Experience: Fit beginners and experienced

The trekkers who are looking forward to an offbeat trekking destination, hidden by the rugged beauty of the mountains, should choose the Gulabikantha Trek. This hidden gem will take you through the dense oak forests towards the panoramic views of some of the most popular Himalayan peaks in this region. As the trek is less crowded, it becomes an amazing destination for capturing beautiful snowy landscapes and rare wildlife.
The Gulabikantha Trek can be a perfect choice for trekkers seeking both peace and adventure. Don’t worry about the trail. The Trek Leaders of the Discovery Hike Team will make sure that you have a safe trekking experience.

Chopta-Chandrashila Trek

Area: Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand
Time: 3-4 days
Maximum Altitude: 13000 ft
Distance: 15 km
Grade: Easy to moderate
Best time to visit: December-February (for the winter trek)
Highlights: Tungnath temple and sunrise at Chandrashila Summit.
Experience: Beginners and Experienced

Whenever the Chopta-Chandrashila Trek is being discussed, it is impossible to not talk about the Tungnath temple. It is the highest Shiva temple in the world, sitting at an altitude of 12073 ft. The Tungnath temple attracts many trekkers from different parts of the country and also from other countries. The view from the Chandrashila Top is breathtaking as the sunrise looks amazing along with the panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. The rising sun makes the snow-capped peaks look golden.
So, are you looking forward to visiting the highest Shiva temple in the world?

Chadar Frozen River Trek

Area: Zanskar Valley, Ladakh Time: 9 days
Maximum Altitude: 11123 ft
Distance: 65 km
Grade: Difficult
Best time to visit: January-February (only a winter trek)
Highlights: Frozen Zanskar River, changing ice formations, Tibb cave and Nerak waterfall (frozen)
Experience: Only for experienced trekkers

Ever heard of the 1000-year-old monks who could walk on water? Well, you can too just by choosing the right season. The Zanskar River freezes during the winter season and acts as a trekking route. It is one of the toughest treks in India and therefore, it is strictly advised for experienced and skilled trekkers. Think about walking on a thick ice sheet surrounded by tall cliffs, frozen waterfalls and deep caves. This is what the Chadar Trek is all about. There are many highlights along the trail like Nerak waterfall and Tibb cave, which is a campsite. The temperature falls below -20 °C. The zeal for adventure might be overwhelming but never forget about the underlying dangers at every step. The ice sheets are thin in some places and therefore, there is always a risk of sudden collapse. Follow the Trek Leaders throughout the journey.
Feel exalted by the perceived challenges of the Chadar Trek. We welcome you to be a part of our journey through this unique experience.

Sandakphu-Phalut Trek

Area: Singalila Ridge, West Bengal-Nepal border
Time: 6-7 days
Maximum Altitude: 11930 ft
Distance: 75 km
Grade: Moderate
Best time to visit: December-February (for the winter trek)
Highlights: Breathtaking views of Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Everest.
Experience: Fit beginners and experienced

The Sandakphu-Phalut Trek is situated at the border of West Bengal and Nepal, therefore, it is home to multiple cultures and traditions. The trek is also a part of the Singalila National Park and is home to several rare animal species including Red Panda. The view from the Sandakphu-Phalut trail is breathtaking as the trekkers can witness four of the highest peaks in the world. Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Kanchenjunga and the mighty Everest stand tall, posing for the perfect frame. The season chosen by the trekkers doesn’t matter as the Sandakphu-Phalut Trek promises to provide unmatched experience throughout the year.
What do you think about the Sandakphu-Phalut Trek? Want to experience walking on snowy trails while Everest engulfs you in its grandeur?

FAQs

Which of the treks are best suited for beginners?
Nagtibba Trek, Kedarkanta Trek and Chopta-Chandrashila Trek.

Which is the toughest trek in India?
The Chadar Trek is the toughest winter trek in India.

What is the best time to visit these treks?
December-February

What should I pack for the winter treks?
Please check the DiscoveryHike website. The things to carry have been mentioned in every trek detail on our website.

Do we need a guide for the winter treks?
Yes, you need experienced guides but the Discovery Hike Team will arrange for guides and Trek Leaders as per the discussed package.

Are winter treks unsafe?
Winter treks should be attempted after proper preparation. This increases the safety during the trek.

Which winter trek attracts the least crowd?
The Gulabi kantha Trek remains less crowded due to its offbeat location.

About Author

Ganga Rana

Ganga Rana is an explorer, entrepreneur, and professional Mountaineer. Traveling was the only thing he always wanted to do in his life. Hailing from osla this avid traveler started his travel when he was a small boy itself. He started by traveling to nearby places with family and friends.