"Which trek is best in winter?" This question swirls around in the minds of trekkers worldwide. Especially when they say goodbye to autumn treks, they seek their next adventure: the winter treks! India is rich in vivid terrains and has treks for every season: Summer, Monsoon, Autumn, Winter, and Spring.
Considering the need of the hour, this article is about winter treks in India. For further clarity, it narrows down to Winter Treks in Uttarakhand. Why Uttarakhand? As you skim through the article, you will have your answer.
Uttarakhand offers popular winter treks like Kedarkantha, Brahmatal, Dayara Bugyal, Har Ki Dun, etc. These make the winter treks in Uttarakhand appealing to trekkers. If you're a beginner, don't worry! Winter trekking doesn't have to be overly challenging. This article highlights 3 easy treks for beginners, perfect for beginners ready to take on the snow. Are you ready to find your winter wonderland? Read the article below!
What Makes Winter Treks in India Special?
Winter treks in India are special for different reasons for different people. Below we have tried to sum up some points:
The Best Winter Treks in Uttarakhand
Days: 5 to 6 Days
Altitude: 12,500 ft
Trek Distance: 20 km
Views: The Himalayan ranges, including Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch peaks.
Preferred Season: December to April
Specialty: Known for its summit views and the opportunity to camp under a starry sky.
The Kedarkantha Trek is known among trekkers for its reward-like panoramic views at the summit. The trail leads through pine forests and scenic campsites, where trekkers get to relax in nature. Reaching the summit of Kedarkantha provides an exhilarating sense of achievement. It is elevated if the trekkers can climb the summit at sunrise and witness the snow-clad peaks. This trek is apt for beginners too apart from being a trekker’s choice among experienced trekkers.
Days: 5 to 6 days
Altitude: 12,500 ft
Trek Distance: 24 km
Views: The majestic Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti.
Preferred Season: December to March
Specialty: Features alpine lakes and snow-laden trails—perfect for the sought-out serenity!
Brahmatal Trek has many easter eggs, but two are the most revered, they are the two alpine lakes: Brahmatal and Bekal Tal. Other than that, the trek offers a range of forests (rhododendrons and oaks), covered with snow. The snowy tops of the mountains are beautiful to the naked eye, but they shine twofold in their reflection on lake waters. Brahmatal is a must-visit for winter trekking enthusiasts, it has all—peaks, lakes, and forest stretches.
Days: 4 to 5 days
Altitude: 12,645 ft
Trek Distance: 22 km
Views: Vast meadows and mountain views like Bandarpooch, Draupadi Ka Danda 1 and 2, Jaonli, Gangotri 1 and 2.
Preferred Season: December to March
Specialty: Meadows that offer camping sites and picturesque landscapes.
Dayara Bugyal is famous for its wide-open meadows that turn into a snowy paradise during winter. The trek offers a mix of adventure and breathtaking views. The dense forests and meadows with nothing, but a snow layer in sight, add up to a rich experience. One gets a sense of freedom, a feeling of conquering something as one walks on this pristine landscape. It’s far away from prying eyes and brings you closer to yourself as you focus within. Dayara Bugyal is ideal for families and beginners looking to enjoy winter trekking. It does not demand strenuous work like other higher-altitude treks.
Days: 7 to 8 Days
Altitude: 11,700 ft
Trek Distance: 43 km
Views: A scenic valley trek with views of the surrounding peaks, including Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch.
Preferred Season: December to March
Specialty: A beautiful blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty, passing through ancient villages.
The Har Ki Dun Trek is counted when talking about the most beautiful treks in Uttarakhand. It showcases the region's rich culture and the breathtaking landscapes add to its charm. Trekkers enjoy the views and get to experience local life as they pass through traditional villages. This trek presents the trekkers with an excellent opportunity to learn about the local culture and traditions. The beauty of the Himalayas comes second when one talks about the Har Ki Dun Trek. Therefore, it’s the perfectly balanced imperfection of culture, nature, and the adventure that comes with it.
Short and Easy Winter Treks in Uttarakhand for Everyone
Not every winter trek is suitable for everyone with a dream in winter. For some, this is the reason for never being able to actualize their dream winter trek. But, there is a solution, the three winter treks in Uttarakhand, discussed below:
Days: 4 to 5 days
Altitude: 12,100 ft
Trek Distance: 14 km
Views: Himalayan ranges, including Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba.
Preferred Season: Winter (November to March)
Specialty: Trek to the highest Shiva temple, Tungnath, making it spiritually significant.
The Chopta-Tungnath Trek is a short yet rewarding trek. Its rewards lie with its natural sightings and one of the highest Shiva temples in the world. This temple is known among devotees as Tungnath Temple: built by Pandavas, who were seeking penance after Mahabharata. Winter sees this trail, covered in snow, and offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding peaks. Early morning and the onset of the evening at Chandrashila Peak are the best choices trekkers can make to witness sunrises and sunsets. This trek is ideal for families and beginners as it has both spiritual and adventure angles.
Days: 2 Days
Altitude: 9,910 ft
Trek Distance: 16 km
Views: Views of the snow-capped peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas and a clear view of the Doon Valley. Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and the Gangotri group.
Preferred Season: December to March
Specialty: It is a nature lover's paradise, popular for its diverse flora and fauna.
Nag Tibba is a perfect weekend getaway for those looking to experience a winter. Without extensive planning, you can get the feel of trekking and camping in winter with snow as your companion. The trek features lush forests, diverse wildlife, and extraordinary views from the summit. At the summit, you feel a sense of achievement like no other. Meanwhile, you enjoy the panoramic view of the snow-laden mountains. It is a well-suited trek for families and beginner trekkers. You get the best taste of adventure in a short duration.
Days: 4 to 5 Days
Altitude: 11,500 ft
Trek Distance: 16 km
Views: Panchchuli range, Hardeol, Nanda Devi, Rajrambha, Nanda Kot peaks, and Chaukhamba peaks with expansive valleys.
Preferred Season: Winter (December to March)
Specialty: A challenging summit trek with phenomenal views.
The Khaliya Top Trek offers an experience that is both short and challenging at the same time. The trail got attention for its beautiful landscapes and steep ascents. At the end of the challenge, the trekkers get breathtaking views at the summit. This trek is perfect for those who want to push their limits while also enjoying the views of the Uttarakhand mountains. Khaliya Top combined with snow-covered meadows and forest trails, makes for an adventure one should rarely miss.
The Mountains Are Calling – Will You Answer?
The list of winter treks in Uttarakhand is very long. It includes treks like Kuari Pass Trek, Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, Auli Trek, Gulabi Kantha Trek, etc. Can we cover all these treks in one article? Hardly. Therefore, we have segregated some that you will like above. They are:
To each, their own is our motto in explaining these winter treks. There is a winter trek waiting for you in the Himalayas, are you ready to take on the challenge?
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6N/7D
Moderate to Difficult
15,069 FT