Best Winter Treks In India December January And February : Top 10 Winter Treks to do in the Himalayas

Winter is always special in the mountains. The big meadows are covered with snow and look like a wonderland. We are truly blessed for having some of the best winter treks in India. The frozen lakes and rivers with some breathtaking views seem majestic. You will walk on snow-covered trails at sub-zero temperatures. Himalayan Snow Treks are difficult but give you unforgettable memories for life.

List Of Top 10 Best Winter Treks In India

1. Kedarkantha Trek

The Kedarkantha is the best winter trek. This beautiful trek is located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Trekkers call it “Queen Of Winter Treks”. Most trekkers prefer this trek because it is a true summit. The altitude is around 12500 feet and the trail difficulty is also moderate. The sunrise from the summit is the most rewarding thing on Kedarkantha trek. You start your trek from dense forests and walk through beautiful trails to reach the summit.

2. Daraya Bugyal Trek

Daraya Bugyal trek is a special trek because it always looks the best. This trek is also famous as a summer trek. But winter is different and very magical. The big meadows of Daraya Bugyal are covered with snow. The lush green meadows in summer become winter-wonderland in the winter. For good winter treks December January and February, Daraya Bugyal is the one. This is an easy to moderate trek and is perfect for snow lovers.

3. Chopta Chandrashila Trek

Chopta chandrshila trek is a great trek to experience the Garhwal Himalayas. You will start your trek from Chopta and will walk through snow-covered forests and big meadows. The summit of Chandrashila is at the altitude of 3690 m. The best time for winter trekking in India is from December to February. Your whole trail will be covered with fresh snow. The sunrise and sunset on Chopta chandrashila trek is very beautiful.

4. Brahmatal Trek

Brahmatal in winter is probably the most beautiful trek. The altitude of the trek is 3840 m and the trail is very beautiful. You will start your trek from dense Oak forests and then walk through frozen alpine lakes and snow-covered meadows. The Brakhmatal Trek is an easy to moderate level trek. You can do this trek even as a beginner with good physical fitness. All the campsites are located at beautiful locations. Brahmatal is a good choice as the first winter trek. 

5. Nag Tibba Trek

Nag Tibba is a short snow trek and perfect for a weekend adventure. Snow trekking in Uttarakhand is very beautiful. The Nag Tibba is a beautiful trek near Mussoorie. You can cover this trek in just 2 days. The height of the trek is 3022 m and the trail is easy. You will walk through snow-dusted oak and pine forests. Small villages and wide meadows on the trek are alluring.

6. Kuari Pass Trek

Kuari pass trek is a mixture of adventure and beauty. The trail to Kuari Pass is easy to moderate. You can trek to Kuari Pass in summer very easily. But winter trek to Kuari Pass is a bit difficult. This trek has some of the best picture-perfect landscapes. You will see small villages on the trek. The trekkers can also experience the mountain lifestyle. The campsites are also very beautiful in Kuari Pass Trek. 

7. Chadar Trek

Chadar trek is a very special winter trek. Trekkers wait for the whole year to do chadar trek. This trek is a very small time window. There are only 4-5 weeks that have favorable conditions for chadar trek. This trek is very challenging and thrilling. Trekkers walk on the frozen river daily for hours. They spend the night in caves or camps along the riverbank. This winter trek in Ladakh is the most unique trek in India. 

8. Spiti Valley Winter Trek

All the treks in Spiti are special. But Spiti Valley Winter Trek is unique and full of adventure. Winters are harsh in the Spiti region. The valley turns into a frozen desert and the landscapes are very different. You can’t find these landscapes in any other winter treks in India. The trek passes through villages and frozen streams. The temperature can drop to -20℃ and the trails can be very challenging. This trek is also famous for snow leopard expedition.

9. Sandakphu Phalut Trek

This eastern Himalayan trek has some of the most beautiful views. The trek is located in West Bengal starts from Tumling. The trail passes from beautiful forests and villages. You can stay in camps as well as in the cozy homestays in the villages. The Sandakphu phalut trek is more like a cultural trek. You can experience the life of people near the Indo-Nepal border. 

10. Mukta Top Trek

The Mukta Top Trek is a hidden winter gem. This trek is in Uttarakhand and offers the best winter trekking Himalayas experience. The trek is less-crowded and peaceful. The altitude of this trek is 3600 m and the views from the summit are great. The whole trek became a white paradise. The Mukta top trek is perfect for people who are looking for less-crowded beautiful winter treks. 

Challenges For Trekking In Winter

• Extreme Cold: The temperature in winter treks mainly remains sub-zero. Spending nights at this temperature is not easy. Trekkers need proper layering to prevent hypothermia and frostbites.
• Snow-covered Trails: The trails are covered with snow. The trekkers should walk properly with good balance. Listen to your guide for better instructions.
• Physically challenging: Walking in snow can be very exhausting. Your every step on the trail needs some extra effort. The low oxygen level and thin air can make it physically challenging.
• Shorter Daylight Hours: Winter means short daylight hours. The trekkers have to start the trek early in the morning. They must reach the campsite before dark. Navigation on snow-filled trails can be very difficult. 

Read here: Trekking Fitness Training

Preparation For Trekking In Winter

• Good physical fitness: You must train your body for winter treks in India. Build your stamina with cardio and strength training. Walk at least 10K steps and practice stair climbing with a backpack.
• Good layering: Pack a good pair of thermals to trap body heat. You will need a fleece jacket and a good down jacket for the outer layer. Always pack a windcheater rainjacket with you.
• Winter gear: If you are trekking on your own then carry all the essential winter gear. Start with gaiter and microspikes. Get a good quality tent and sleeping bag that can keep you warm in sub-zero degrees. But if you are trekking with Himalaya Shelter then you don’t need to worry about your stay and meals.
• Mental Preparation: You should prepare yourself to spend your days in sub-zero temperature. Long walking hours in freezing temperatures is not easy. Stay positive and enjoy every moment on the trek.

Read more: How To Prepare For A Trek In The Himalayas

Expert Tips for Safe Winter Trekking

• Smart Layering: One thick jacket is not enough for winter treks. Wear thermals as a base layer then fleece as a mid layer. Now get a good quality down jacket for the outer layer. Layering helps to trap the body heat and protects you in extreme cold weather.
• Protect your head and hands: You can lose your body heat from your hands and head. Always pack a good woolen cap for a winter trek. Pack two pairs of gloves (insulated and woolen). You can also carry some extra pairs of woolen socks. 
• Stay Hydrated: Trekkers drink less water due to cold.  But it can cause dehydration. Carry warm water in a thermo flask bottle and sip it regularly on the trek.
• Start Early: Days are very short in winters. You should start your trek early and reach the campsite on time.

Read more: Safety Tips For Trekking

Why Choose Himalayan Shelter for Trekking In India?

Himalayan Shelter (HS) offers some of the best Himalayan Snow Treks. We have a team of certified guides who have years of experience in winter trekking. The guides and supporting staff will lead you on every step on the trek. Our company has good safety standards. Choosing a right trekking partner can make a big difference. We have all necessity inclusive for the treks. Himalaya Shelter (HS) provides you customized trekking services. Fix the dates and we will plan a tailored itinerary for you. We believe in creating lifelong memories in the Himalayas. 

Conclusion

Snow trekking in India is a surreal experience. The snow-covered trails and big meadows look stunning. Winter treks are challenging and need good guidance. Choose the right trekking partner for completing your trek smoothly. The best time for winter trekking in India is from December to February. Boost your strength and gear up. Plan your trek and pack your bags for the mountains.  

FAQs 

Q1. What is the best winter trek in India?

Ans: Kedarkantha is probably the best winter trek. Another good trek similar to Kedarkantha with less crowd is Gulabi Kantha.

Q2. What are some easy winter treks in India?

Ans: Nag Tibba and Bharamtal are some easy winter treks.

Q3. Can I trek Ladakh region in winter?

Ans: Chadar Trek is a good winter trek in Ladakh region.

Q4. Why should I book my trek with a company?

Ans: Winter trekking is difficult and requires lots of preparation. The trekking company provides good safety and all essentials.

Read more about upcoming winter treks: 10 Best Winter Treks In Uttarakhand