Winters have arrived in India and it is the time of the year when you start planning your winter treks. Here, in this blog, I have covered the best winter treks in India. The blog includes the top 10 of the best trek locations in India that fits your budgets too. Most of the treks covered are easy to intermediate level difficult with great scenic views of the Greater Himalayan Peaks.
December, January and February are the peak winter months in India and these months have seen a tremendous rise in tourist activities in trekking zones since winter trekking has become a thing. Trekkers and mountain enthusiasts from all over the country look forward to this time of the year for an isolated retreat away from the hustles of daily life.
Winter Treks – Why Are They Famous?
Winters in India, mark both the beginning and the end of the calendar year. For some people, especially the corporate ones, December is the time of the year they have been saving all their holidays for. Winter Treks, thus serve as the best investment one could make for a getaway. For a few people, they need to start the year fresh and full of energy and to get that instant boost, they set out on winter treks.
Winter Treks, alongside offering you the best views of the snow-capped Himalayas, also have some great camp-sites packed with them. They have become quite famous in recent times owing to their majestic and picturesque locations and viewpoints; not to forget that adrenal rush to scale the summits.
Best Winter Treks In India
Here below is a list of some of the best places you can plan a winter trek in. These places feel surreal and have all the things that make a winter trek popular, from scenic views to lush meadows; from snow covered tops, to frozen lakes; these places offer you everything and that is what makes them one of the best winter treks in India.
These treks are moderate in difficulty and are a part of the easy winter treks in India. Some of the treks are among the most famous winter treks in India. Let us have a look at them.
Kedarkantha Trek
Trek Difficulty: Easy
Region: Sankri, Uttarakhand
Duration Of The Trek: 5 – 6 Days
Budget Of The Trek: INR 10,000 – INR 12,000
Maximum Altitude Gain: 12,500 feet (3810 meters)
When it comes to Indian Winter Treks, Kedarkantha is always the table topper. Kedarkantha Trek is often termed as “The Queen Of Winter Treks” being one of the most popular choices amongst the trekkers. It is definitely a great trek for beginners too. Kedarkantha Trek offers some of the best campsites and summit experiences. The trail of Kedarkantha is, thus, a very special one indeed.
For the ones who want to set out their foot for the first time in the field of winter trekking, Kedarkantha is by far the best choice. It is a great choice for the beginners because of the easy terrain and trail. Kedarkantha offers one of the best Himalayan winter trails. For the climbers, Kedarkantha trek is a heavenly experience.
However, the only con of this trek is its popularity. Kedarkantha, right from when the routes to the trek were opened in the year 2011,has seen a large number of visitors trying to scale the summit. The crowd takes away the essence of such a beautiful trek and makes the experience a bit less amusing.
According to my analysis of the trek, I would suggest avoiding the route from Sankri and trekking from the Kotgaon route. The Kotgaon Route is secluded and less attended by the travelers unlike the one through Sankri which is quite a crowded one. It is also a better and a more scenic route in terms of picturesque views and trails.
What are the peaks you can see from Kedarkantha?
Out of the great view of the Greater Himalayas throughout, from the summit and through the trail, you can easily spot some really famous peaks like Swargarohini, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Black Peak and Bandarpoonch. It also gives you a picturesque view of the Kinner Kailash mountain range.
Read more about Kedarkantha Trek here.
Brahmatal Trek
Trek Difficulty: Easy
Region: Lohajung, Uttarakhand
Duration Of The Trek: 5 – 6 Days
Budget Of The Trek: INR 10,000 – INR 12,000
Maximum Altitude Gain: 12,600 feet (3840 meters)
If there was a word to describe this beautiful trek, it would be dazzling. Brahmatal offers you the perfect view of a glacial lake, alongside which you set up your camp and see the night sky twinkling and shining with millions of stars. If lucky, you may even spot Akash Ganga from the campsite. The 5 days that you spend trekking Brahmatal are truly going to be worth each penny spent.
The summit of the Brahmatal Trek is situated at an height of a whopping 12,600 feet, i.e. 3,840 meters above the mean sea level. Trust me when I say it, from that height every peak would feel so close in proximity that you will feel like you can touch it. The camp locations give you a perfect camping experience alongside the frozen glacial lakes.
Other than the beautiful camping locations and its high altitude trek, Brahmatal Trek is also well known for the bird’s eye view of the Greater Himalayas and the Roopkund Trail. It is no mistake in quoting that Brahmatal is the perfect winter trek if snow is what you are looking for. It is the perfect snow trek for trekkers who love to scale the heights in whites.
Also, I would suggest people with breathing issues and less stamina to avoid this one. This trek is easy, but it also has some pretty difficult climbs, so one needs to be physically prepared for that. You need to be prepared for all the snow magic too, because Brahmatal Trek is known for its snow experience.
What are the peaks you can see from Brahmatal Trek?
Brahmatal offers you a great panoramic view of the Greater Himalayas. Some of the most majestic peaks like the Nilkanth, Kamet, Trishul, Nanda Ghunti and Chowkhamba peaks are clearly visible in a very close proximity from Brahmatal. You can also spot the Hathi, and Ghoda peaks from the summit of Brahmatal Trek.
Read more about Brahmatal Trek here.
Kuari Pass Trek
Trek Difficulty: Easy
Region: Joshimath, Uttarakhand
Duration Of The Trek: 5 – 6 Days
Budget Of The Trek: INR 10,000 – INR 12,000
Maximum Altitude Gain: 12,716 feet (3876 meters)
People have rightfully called the Kuari Pass Trek to be the doorway to heaven. It lives up to every bit of the name. It is one of those treks that makes you fall in love with the journey more than that of the destination. The trek is so beautiful that everytime you stop to catch a quick breath, you will feel like staying there, looking at the beauty around you.
No matter the number of treks you’ve been on, if you haven’t trekked Kuari pass, you have not experienced it all. You get to see Mt Nanda Devi and Dronagiri; one of the highest and most celebrated Himalayan Peaks in India, irrespective of the season you trek. Kuari Pass Trek feels like a fairy tale with all the picturesque locations and the amazing views. The campsites just add up to the beauty of the trek.
If you are planning a winter trek in India, Kuari Pass should definitely be one of the top places in your list. I personally recommend this trek for every trek lover out there. During the winters, Kuari Pass becomes a completely different place. It is just beautifully elegant and different from what it remains all season. Winters just boost the beauty of the trek with the perfect amount of snow. The experience this trek gives you is unmatched.
What are the peaks you can see from Kuari Pass?
The high, majestic, snow-capped peaks of Chaukhamba, Mt. Kamet, Neelkantha and Bhagirathi 1,2,3 are what you will easily be able to spot from the summit at Kuari Pass. These peaks add up to the beauty of the Kuari Pass Trek. Not to forget the views of the majestic Mt Nanda Devi and Mt Dronagiri.
Read more about Kuari Pass Trek here.
Dayara Bugyal Trek
Trek Difficulty: Easy
Region: Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
Duration Of The Trek: 4 – 5 Days
Budget Of The Trek: INR 7,000 – INR 9,000
Maximum Altitude Gain: 12,300 feet (3750 meters)
The translation of ‘Bugyal’ in english is meadows. Dayara Bugyal trek is one of the best, if not the best alpine meadows in India. During winters, the meadows become even enthralling. The widespread meadows in winters turn completely white. During winters the snow engulfs the entire meadow.
From the summit of Dayara Bugyal Trek, you get a panoramic view of the Himalayas, and I have to admit that the view from the summit is breath-taking. In terms of the beauty that it offers at such an elevation, there’s no other meadow in close proximity to Dayara. Be it through the open meadows or dense forests or steep climbs, the trek has got it all covered.
The best thing about the trek is its scalability. The trek is fit for kids to people in their fifties. This is a beginner level trek that you can do with your family. This is something that is not possible in many of the other treks and is what makes this trek a popular choice amongst the beginners. For the easy experience, the views you get are just more than what you can ask for.
The trail in winter gets completely covered in snow. No matter where you turn, you will find yourself surrounded in the middle of snow everywhere. The trek is simply a very relaxing one. Winters make the trek even prettier. No matter how many times you plan a Dayara Bugyal Trek, it always will leave a smile on your face at the end.
What are the peaks you can see from Dayara Bugyal Trek?
Being one of the most beautiful alpine meadows, covered with snow this time of the year, your Dayara Bugyal Trek becomes even enthralling with the view of the DKD and Bandarpunch peaks. DKD or Draupadi Ka Danda are two high mountain peaks in the Gangotri range of the Himalayas.
Read more about Dayara Bugyal Trek here.
Sandakphu – Phalut Trek
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Region: Darjeeling, West Bengal
Duration Of The Trek: 6 – 7 Days
Budget Of The Trek: INR 12,000 – INR 14,000
Maximum Altitude Gain: 11,930 feet (3,637 meters)
The land of poisonous flowers, Sandakphu, is famous for its winter trek experience too. The summit of Sandakphu transports you to a place in your own conscious self wherein you understand how minute your problems are. Sandakphu – Phalut Trek gives you a clear view of the Kanchenjunga Mountain Range.
People who trek to the summit of Sandakphu do not just do it to gather a trekking experience, but they do it for the view they get from the top. Sandakphu height in feet is 11,930 feet and from that height, you can magically spot the highest peaks of the world. Yes, you heard that right. Four of the five highest mountain peaks in the world are visible from the summit of Sandakphu.
Although if the image of winter treks in your mind is that of snow laden meadows and revolves around the idea of walking on snow, Sandakphu may not be what you are looking for. It does not look like the treks in Uttarakhand, Himachal or Kashmir. However, what it offers is something else, something serene. I mean, where else would you see Mt Everest, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu together?
It is located on the border of India and Nepal and thus the trail of Sandakphu Trek keeps taking you from Nepal to India. It is a strange experience altogether. One moment you are in India and the other your feet are in Nepal. Do not forget to experience your stays in Tea Houses to get a lifetime experience.
What are the peaks you can see from Sandakphu-Phalut Trek?
Four of the five highest peaks in the world, Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu show their majestic nature from the summit of Sandakphu. Many thoughts that keep rushing in our minds are silenced once we reach the summit. The mountains around show us how we and our problems are so small in front of these high, majestic peaks.
Chopta Chandrashila Deoria Tal
Trek Difficulty: Easy
Region: Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
Duration Of The Trek: 5 – 6 Days
Budget Of The Trek: INR 11,000 – INR 13,000
Maximum Altitude Gain: 12,100 feet (3688 meters)
Last year, each one of us who wanted to go on this trek were disappointed because of the closing of some crucial campsites by the forest department. It was one of the most popular winter treks in India and its closing led to many heartbreaks. However, the first department has set up some new and alternative campsites and the trek has commenced again in full force.
There’s nothing to worry because the alternative campsites do not affect the charm of the old trail. It still remains as charming and fresh as ever. You still see the lakes and get to climb to Tunganath and Chandrashila summit. In your trek, the maximum altitude you will reach is 12,100 feet, i.e. 3,688 feet above the sea level.
You get to see India’s Highest Himalayan peaks from the summit of the Chopta Chandrashila Deoria Tal Trek including Mt. Nanda Devi. During winters, you will get to witness snow and I feel the overall experience of the trek is a total blissful experience. From vibrant forests to steep snow-laden climbs, the trek has packed a lot in a box for you.
For a bare minimum physical effort, what the trek offers you is commendable. This is one of the chief reasons that the trek is so popular among the seasoned trekkers and the veterans. I feel this trek would not disappoint any trekker, instead there’s high chances you get awestruck by the magnificence and the elegance of the trek.
What are the peaks you can see from Chopta – Chandrashila – Deoria Tal Trek?
Apart from the scenic marvels that you get to witness throughout the trail of the Deoria Tal Trek, you can see Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trisul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch, Satopanth, Dunagiri, Kalanka, Bhagirathi, Jogin, Chaukhamba etc. These mountain peaks add up to the eternal experience of the trek.
Har Ki Doon Trek
Trek Difficulty: Easy
Region: Sankri, Uttarakhand
Duration Of The Trek: 5 – 6 Days
Budget Of The Trek: INR 10,000 – INR 12,000
Maximum Altitude Gain: 11,482 feet (3500 meters)
A paradise for the fauna lovers and bird watchers, the Har Ki Doon offers you a glimpse of some rare Himalayan Birds. You get to walk through the valley surrounded by dense pine forests. Snow capped mountains look down to you as you walk through the trail of Har Ki Doon. From the beautiful trail to the ambient and pretty camping locations, the trek has got it all covered. For trekkers who look for peace, this is the one trek they should be on.
Har Ki Dun lies in the Garhwal region and is one of the most famous all season treks in India. During winters, the trek becomes even eye-catching. Due to the cradle shaped mountains that engulf the trail of the trek, the Har Ki Dun Trek is also called the Hanging Valley Trek. It has a separate liking amongst the nature enthusiasts who love to trek. The flora and fauna that this place offers is second to none.
During winters the trail of the Har Ki Dun Trek gets covered with snow and makes it turn into a paradise of snow. The pines and the deodar trees covered with a sheet of snow increase the beauty of the trek and give you a once in a lifetime experience. Har Ki Dun Trek is a must visit for you if you love walking by the pines and like being around nature.
What are the peaks you can see from Har Ki Doon Trek?
Har Ki Doon is an ethereal experience in itself that makes you feel lost in your own positive thoughts. The basic motive behind the trek is to be able to feel Swargarohini not just view it. The Swargarohini and Jaundhar Glacier, and Bandarpunch mountain is clearly visible in close proximity from the summit of this trek.
Panwali Kantha Trek
Trek Difficulty: Easy
Region: Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Duration Of The Trek: 4 – 5 Days
Budget Of The Trek: INR 14,000 – INR 16,000
Maximum Altitude Gain: 11,500 feet (3505 meters)
If I say I would show you the Char Dhams from one place, you would not believe me at first. When I take you to the summit of Panwali Kantha, the view will speak for itself. One of the most beautiful treks in the list, the Panwali Kantha Trek brings to you a view of the entire range of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath mountain peaks. The view of the ‘Char Dhams’ from a single place adds up to the spiritual aspects of the trek.
The views that you get from the summit is not the only reason for your trek to Panwali Kantha. Along with the views, you cross a total of seven meadows. These meadows are all beautiful in their own distinct manner. You can also spot the rare himalayan blue-mountain goat in this region if your luck favors you. It is an all season trek which turns out to be beautiful during the winters as well. In summers, you can spot pink rhododendrons in the meadows. It has quite an exhilarating landscape packed for you. And if you have made up your mind to set out on this trek, you cannot miss the sunset view.
The trek had a huge pilgrimage significance in the past, but pilgrims no longer use the route. Although you will encounter many sheeps and shepherds on your way. The trek is not a difficult one and is considered to be an all season trek which fits the needs of every beginner along with the captivating views of the Greater Himalayas.
What are the peaks you can see from Panwali Kantha Trek?
Want to complete your visual pilgrimage on a trek? If yes, Panwali Kantha Trek is the perfect trek for you. It offers you the view of the Char Dham. Yes, you heard that right, you can see the complete range of Yamunotri- Gangotri- Kedarnath- Badrinath mountain peaks from the summit of the Panwali Kantha Trek.
You can also spot the Thalay Sagar, Meru Parvat, Kirti Stambh, Kedar Dome, Chaukhamba and Nikanth peaks from here. It offers a 360 degree view of the greater Himalayas and if I had to describe it, it feels like home to a mountain lover.
Goecha La Trek
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Region: Yuksom, Sikkim
Duration Of The Trek: 9 Days
Budget Of The Trek: INR 18,000 – INR 20,000
Maximum Altitude Gain: 16,207 feet (4940 meters)
Sikkim is a place where you can find all sorts of mountainous terrains. Traveling to Sikkim is in itself an amazing experience to have, let alone trekking in Sikkim. The Goecha La Trek is another beautiful winter trek with amazing views of the snow capped heights. Isn’t it great that you get to clearly see the Greater Himalayas with the panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga?
Winter Trekking in Sikkim is one of a kind experience that I highly recommend to each one of you. It is a surreal experience in all and the panoramic view of the Himalayan Mountain ranges adds up to the beauty of the trek. You are going to leave with a once in a lifetime kind of experience from the Goecha La Trek, while covering different sorts of terrain.
The snow covered trail of Goecha La Trek is supposed to make you feel other-wordly. From lush-green meadows, to curves through the pines, to hiking up snow laden meadows, Goecha La trek offers you all of this and more. The distinct flora and fauna of the place adds up to the eye-catching beauty of the trek. For nature enthusiasts and all season trekkers, Goecha La is a paradise.
What are the peaks you can see from Goecha La Trek?
From the summit of Goecha La Trek, the Mt. Pandim and the entire Kanchenjunga range is visible. You will be truly lost and enchanted when you get to see those majestic peaks covered with snow. Along with the cool winds blowing throughout the trail, you can also find picturesque views of the Greater Himalayan Mountain ranges.
Chadar Trek
Trek Difficulty: Difficult
Region: Leh, Ladakh
Duration Of The Trek: 9 Days
Budget Of The Trek: INR 22,000 – INR 25,000
Maximum Altitude Gain: 11,200 feet (3413 meters)
What would you feel like if I came to you and asked you to pack your bags because I am taking you out to walk on a river? Yes, you heard that right. Walk over a river, not swim. Chadar trek is the most famous trek in Leh, Ladakh and some trekkers consider it to be the best winter trek in India too. It is one of the most adventurous winter treks amongst the ones that have made it to this list.
‘Chadar’ translates to blanket/ bed-sheet in English which is clearly justified.Through the trek you walk on a frozen ice bed under which the Zanskar River flows. It gives you a surreal experience and gives you memories that you carry to your grave. You get to see the beautiful Nerak Falls on your way.
Due to heavy snow in winters, most of the passes and roads remain blocked, thus making the river the only way to travel in and out of Zanskar. This was why the trek came into existence. Beyond its significance in the niche of winter treks and travels, Chadar Trek is also an established trade route for the Zanskari people. It later became famous as a winter trekking route.
I would suggest you to be physically well prepared and well equipped for the trek. The trek tests your ability and is the most difficult winter trek in this list among all the others being of easy – moderate level difficulty. If you’re a beginner, I would not prefer Chadar Trek to be the one you start with. It may cause a bit of a difficulty to beginners.
What are the peaks you can see from Chadar Trek?
Well the speciality of Chadar is you do not get to trek to scale the summit of a mountain or a hill, you get to walk through them. You will be surrounded by high Himalayan Mountain on all sides throughout the trek. The beauty of Chadar Trek is out of this world; it is a surreal experience in all.
Conclusion
With this list of ten of the best winter treks in India and their brief description, I would thus conclude my blog. I hope I was able to keep you engaged till the very end. Every trek has its own different experience and every experience changes your outlook on life. With my blogs I hope to keep sharing such experiences with you all because “Experiences Are Eternal!”
Make sure to be well covered and protected this winter and please do not litter or destroy such amazing places. Mountains are but temples of peace.
Happy Travels.
