Top 10 Winter Treks in India
The trek itself is a challenging hike up the majestic mountain. Add in the winter wind and the competition increases exponentially. Winter treks in the Indian Himalayas usually last from November to the end of March. This is not a favourite season for sleepwalkers. Although the difficulty increases due to the high and low altitude, it becomes a good opportunity for strong people and adventurers who seek adrenaline with every breath.
Winter Trekking in India Winter Trekking has a lonely sea of ??endless whiteness. Loneliness makes many travellers lose track of time and follow footprints long gone in the snow. For some, it’s a chance to step out of their comfort zone, but for many, it’s a chance to escape the boring, noisy city life.
1. Winter Kuari Pass Trek - Uttarakhand
| Region: | Uttarakhand |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 6 Days |
| Grade: | Easy to Moderate |
| Max Altitude: | 12,763 Ft. |
| Approx Trekking: | 33 km. |
| Best Time to Go: | December to March. |
| Best Moment to Capture: |
Trekkers on the endless snow carpet |
Kuari Pass Trek is a beautiful place in Uttarakhand. This journey gained importance in the 1900s when some intellectuals of the British era attempted this route. British celebrities include Eric Shipton, Bill Tilman and the famous Lord Curzon. It is worth mentioning that this journey is called the Curzon Trail.
Kuri Pass is one of the most beautiful places in winter. The temperature rarely drops below -8 degrees Celsius, so it is an average trek, "A beautiful trek through the Himalayan meadows so beautiful that you forget the difficulties of many Peaks. Pay attention to the beautiful views of Nanda Devi, Neelkant, Dronagiri and Mukut Parbat during this trek through the forest of oak and cedar trees. This forest is home to many wild animals like leopards, Himalayan black bears etc. Rhododendrons are still in bloom.
These bright flowers are used in making beverages and are also known for some medicinal uses. The highest point of this trek, Kuari, is 13,990 feet above sea level and offers some of the best views in the world. It also gives you a chance to visit the famous ski resort of Orly. “What makes me happy is the white snow cover that covers every inch that my eyes can see,” says travel blogger and Himalayan trekker Neha Mohta.
How to Reach There
To reach Kuari Pass, you can start your journey from Dehradun, which is the nearest major city. From Dehradun, you can take a taxi to Joshimath, which serves as the base camp for the trek. Anywhere Cab offers reliable transportation services in Dehradun, ensuring you a comfortable ride to your destination. With experienced drivers and a well-maintained fleet, Anywhere Cab can make your travel smooth and hassle-free. You can book your cab easily through their website or by calling them directly. We are known as the best taxi service in Dehradun.
2. Kedarkantha Trek - Uttarakhand
| Region: | Uttrakhand |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 06 Days |
| Grade: | Easy to Moderate |
| Max Altitude: | 12500 Ft. |
| Approx Trekking: | 22km |
| Best Time to Go: | December to April |
| Best Moment to capture: |
The sight of being dwarfed by mountain peaks |
Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most sought after snow journeying route in India. Along with winter falling snow, it forms a hypnotising pictorial view and what's more alluring, is the perspective on the Mighty Himalayas from the path right to the top. Situated at an altitude of 3810 metres which is approximately 12,500 feet this is a perfect journeying trail which spans a combined distance of 20 km.
No list of best winter trekking is ever complete without this classic winter trek. It is the perfect amalgamation of views, walks through remote Garhwal villages, and the joy of snow trekking. It will be a surprise to know that mid-December usually brings in winter snow, and usually stays mostly till mid-April. Kedarkantha lies in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park in Uttarkashi and is said to be one of the easiest winter treks.
How to Reach There?
For a hassle free trip, book anywhere cab from Dehradun, the best cab service in Dehradun. Dehradun is the nearest city to the destination Kedarkantha. From here, take a taxi to Sankri, from where the base camp for the trek. Anywhere cab offers you their safe and secure taxi service within the limits of Dehradun. A hassle-free ride with the excellent service of an experienced driver and a comfortable vehicle ensures that you reach your destination promptly. Just log in to their website or call them directly to book your cab.
3. Brahmatal Trek - Uttarakhand
| Region: | Uttarakhand |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 06 Days |
| Grade: | Easy to Moderate |
| Max Altitude: | 12000 Ft. |
| Approx Trekking: | 22 kms. |
| Best time to go: | November to January |
| The best moment to capture: | The sight of being dwarfed by mountain peaks |
For those who haven’t done winter trekking, Brahmatal Trek is a must do this winter. Located in Uttarakhand, this trekking route offers ample opportunities to experience winter like never before. The amount of snow is a winter miracle that delights travelers and gives them the taste of winter trekking. The trail combines adventure with ease, offering an experience that appeals to avid trekkers. This unique route leads to a vast forest with high mountains behind you wherever you go. With many peaks reaching up to 7000 metres, the trekking experience is truly mesmerising.
It is a fantasy come true. It was like opening my eyes and seeing heaven. Every click is a view,” says Vaibhav, photographer and trekker at Trek the Himalayas. Winter treks and several other treks can enrich your journey in the cold months. The beauty of these treks rivals some of the best in the world. No matter how much we write about this journey, the reward is only felt when you walk it yourself. If you are lucky, you will get a glimpse into the lives of the locals who live and breathe in the Himalayas every day. Time literally stands still as you follow your trekking leader along the snowy paths. When you watch, time seems frozen in time. Just for you.
How to Reach There
You will actually begin your journey towards Brahmatal from Dehradun, the nearest city. From Dehradun to Lohajung, which is a base camp, you would need a taxi. Anywhere Cab easily booked, and it will provide you with a satisfactory ride with excellent drivers. They make sure that the journey is both smooth and pleasant so you may sit back and enjoy the view. Its website or you may contact them for booking a cab.
After reaching Lohajung, one can start a trek to Brahmatal amidst captivating Himalayan beauty.
4. Dayara Bugyal Trek - Uttarakhand
| Region : | Uttarakhand |
|---|---|
| Duration : | 6 Days |
| Grade : | Easy To Moderate |
| Max Altitude : | 12,100 Ft. |
As we all know, the beginning of winter brings with it severe cold and snow, which increases the competition on the roads. However, no one can deny that the dove-white snow creates a fun and beautiful mountain landscape. Dayara Bugyal Trek would be the best option, it is very easy and has beautiful hills. Large pastures and meadows are covered with a layer of white snow to protect their animals from the cold. Walking on the white carpet is like walking on the frozen sea surrounded by beautiful flowers and mountain trees.
Rakesh Pant said, "We have specially planned a trek along the Barnala Lake. It is like a perfect mirror reflecting the beautiful surroundings." As you climb, you will get a clear view of the snow-capped peaks of Bandarpoonch, Gangotri and Shrikanth. Trekking and camping in the snow-capped mountain forest in the clear night will energise you for the surprises to come. Dayara Bugyal Trek is suitable for trekkers of all ages. Sandeep Rawat said, "We have received good reviews from the kids. They are true fans of the stage. Dayala has become a favourite among them."
How to Reach There
To start your Dayara Bugyal trek, you will have to arrive in Dehradun, the nearest major city to the trail. From Dehradun to Raithal, the base camp for the Dayara Bugyal trek, taxi services are available. To make your drive along the road enjoyable and hassle-free, you can book a taxi through Anywhere Cab, which offers safe transportation by professional drivers who know the road well.
On reaching Raithal, you can start trekking to Dayara Bugyal, and the treks will provide the excellent views of white meadows and towering mountains.
5. Sandakphu Trek - West Bengal
| Region : | West Bengal |
|---|---|
| Duration : |
6 Days |
| Grade : | Moderate |
| Max Altitude : | 12,000 Ft. |
| Approx Trekking Km : | 46 kms. |
Every traveller wants to be on top of the world one day. Other mountains above the clouds are like islands floating in the sea of ??clouds. In order for people to reach the height, they must first appreciate and feel the beauty of the peak of the lowland. This is what Sandakphu Trek brings to all mountain lovers. The world's highest peaks Makalu, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga and Everest come together and stand tall when you try to see them.
When the cold season comes, the cracks and streams extending from the mountains to the land are filled with snow. We can't help but wonder how far they will go. "We are happy to announce Sandakphu this season." I want to see how happy our travellers will be on this road. soil “No matter the season, such a journey is worth it.” TTH trekker Pooja returned to see how the sleeping Buddha in the Kanchenjunga region changes colour in the morning sun. The trail also takes you to Singalila National Park, where there are plenty of animals and plants to keep you busy at every step of the way. Surprisingly, you can see the view of Kalapokhri Lake, an alpine lake that tries to be in the white land.
How to Reach There
You may begin the Sandakphu Trek from Manebhanjan, which serves as the base town for the trek. The closest big city is Siliguri, which can be taken by taxi to Manebhanjan. To get an easy and comfortable ride, book the taxi with Anywhere Cab. Their expert drivers are very much aware of the road conditions and know how to take the safe route through the many rich sceneries of West Bengal.
Once you can reach Manebhanjan, your trek begins towards Sandakphu, which will give you some of the world's greatest peaks and beauty that completes Singalila National Park.
6. Chopta Chandrashila Tungnath Tal – Uttarakhand
| Region : | Uttarakhand |
|---|---|
| Duration : | 6 Days |
| Grade : | Easy |
| Max Altitude : | 13,100 Ft. |
| Approx Trekking Km : | 30 km. |
A superb winter trek, Chopta Chandrashila trek shall take you through snow-filled highlands, camp by a pristine icy lake, meandering forest trails, stop at an ancient temple filled with myths, and finally, unveil a breathtaking summit vista. Some of the mightiest peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas—Chaukhamba, Bandarpunch, and Kedar Range rise to vision on this trek from early on and maximise your chances of awe-inspiring peak photography.
This trail gets especially inviting in the winter because light pours down upon the enchanting Himalayan scene with the quality of the liquid diamond, and clear blue skies perfectly complement it. Trekking to Chopta Chandrashila Trek in winter will mean no scarcity of snow and all those unique challenges associated with it.
However, the trek remains one of the most recommended ones graded easy and okayed for beginning trekkers even during the peak of a snowy winter. Relates anuran, an experienced Himalayan trekker who trekked with TTH one winter: "It was a real winter experience as we climbed higher and peaked at the top of Chandrashila after having the most arduous climb in memory.
How to Reach There
You can start the journey from Haridwar or Rishikesh, which are the closest major cities, to reach Chopta Chandrashila Tungnath Trek in Uttarakhand. Both the cities are well-connected by road and rail and an ideal place to begin the trek. From there, a road trip to Chopta would take you through vistas that remind you of some picture-perfect sceneries- crossing important spots such as Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag and Ukhimath, taking nearly 7-8 hours. Call or book your cab now with Anywhere Cab for a hassle-free and smooth ride. The cab service is known for its expert drivers, who are well aware of the terrain and the best routes. So, enjoy the comfortable ride through the beautiful roads of Uttarakhand.
Once you have reached Chopta, the trek starts. You shall begin walking on a trail from base that will take you through very beautiful alpine meadows and dense forests and snow-covered trails in the winter. Then you'll ascend to ancient Tungnath Temple and further to Chandrashila summit, where you can enjoy such breath-taking sights as Chaukhamba and Kedar Range.
7. Chadar Trek
| Region: | Ladakh |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 9 days |
| Grade: | Difficult |
| Max Altitude: | 11,123 Ft. |
| Approx Trekking Km: | 75 kms. |
| Best Time to Go: | Mid-January to mid-February. |
| The Best Moment to Capture: |
Trekkers in awe of frozen waterfalls |
It’s a dream for every trekker in India and the world. It gets its name from the thin ice that forms on the Zanskar River during winters. At an altitude of 11,123 feet, Rakesh Pant, founder and partner of Trek the Himalayas, said, “Chadar is one of the most challenging treks. The temperature on the trail can drop to -30C, which requires ample physical and mental stamina.” Be prepared for frozen surprises. The total length of the nine-day journey, mostly on the "Chadar", is around 75 kilometres. As you walk across the ice, the ice will thin and crack in places. The sound of the river flowing was like music, a harbinger of the adventure ahead. Himalayan hiker Emily Bridger said: "The Chadar trek is an unforgettable experience. I have travelled all over the world but here I saw some of the most beautiful scenery. This experience was a turning point in life. Sandeep Rawat said.
How to Reach There
Access to the Ladakh Chadar Trek can only be done by travelling to Leh, which is the capital of Ladakh. This can be accessed by an aeroplane coming from the major cities such as Delhi. Leh marks the beginning of this fantastic trek experience. From Leh, you shall travel towards the base camp that is near the confluence of Zanskar River and Chadar Trek. The trek derives its name from the thin sheet of ice, or "Chadar," which forms over the Zanskar River during winter, making it a unique path for trekkers to traverse. Of all the passes and gorges in the Himachals, few can match the rugged grandeur of the Chadar Trek, which takes you into one of the world's remotest and most breathtaking landscapes.
The Chadar Trek is no easy one. Sometimes, temperatures may even drop as low as -30°C. For the extreme conditions, trekkers have to prepare themselves physically and mentally. On this 9-day trek, you are going to cover about 75 kilometres on ice. The cracks and shifts under your feet make this an other-worldly experience. Along the way, you'll see a few frozen waterfalls, towering cliffs, and quiet background music from the flowing river beneath the ice. Anywhere Cab would help you make your journey safe and comfortable by arranging for a ride to Leh. With some of the most experienced drivers, they can ensure that you reach Leh. Once there, you would be all set to undertake this once-in-a-lifetime trek.
8. Dayara Bugyal and Dodital Trek
| Region: | Uttarakhand, Garhwal Himalayas |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 6 days |
| Grade: |
Easy to Moderate |
| Max Altitude: | 12,000 ft (3,658 metres) |
| Approx Trekking Km: | 20-25 km |
Dayara Bugyal and Dodital Trek follow the same trek but Dayara Bugyal is the most famous Bugyal Trek in Uttarakhand Himalayas. The trek is known as the beautiful trek of Uttarakhand. This trek is called Raithal. It is mid run and fall in Uttarkashi region starting from Via Village or Bars u and reaches Barnala Tal and Devi Kund Camp, Satgarhi Camp, Manjhi and Dodital and Dayara Bugyal gates. This trek at an altitude of about 3640 metres above sea level is open all year round and is a simple and easy route especially for your family, kids and schools.
We pass from Dayara Bugyal to Sangam Chatti and then to Assi Ganga Valley leading to ancient and beautiful Dodital. Dodital Trek is famous for the world famous Dodital Lake. Its altitude is a few metres. The lake is about 3110 metres above sea level. The dense forests surrounding Dodital Lake make spending the night in this camp a unique experience. Dodital is also dedicated to Lord Ganesha and the villagers celebrate Lord Ganesha here every year. Believers say that whoever comes here to worship God, his wish will come true. Every year, people flock to Dodital Lake to pray to Lord Ganesha for happiness and peace.
How to Reach There
The trek to Dayara Bugyal and Dodital begins with reaching the nearest major town, Uttarkashi. From here, one can drive forward to the base villages of Raithal or Barsu, from where the trek begins. A comfortable ride with a scenic view can be enjoyed through booking a taxi with Anywhere Cab. The seasoned drivers here are familiar with mountain routes and ensure a smooth journey to the starting point.
It is a light to moderate trek suitable for family, kids, and beginners alike. As one ascends, there occur the most beautiful Bugyals high-altitude meadows of Dayara Bugyal in Garhwal Himalayas. The trail passes through some popular camps such as Devi Kund, Satgarhi, Manjhi, while finally culminating at the famous Dodital Lake.
Dodital Lake is surrounded by dense forests at an altitude of roughly about 3,110 metres, offering an unmatched peaceful camping experience. This lake also holds religious importance as it is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. People visit Dodital each year to pray for happiness and peace. This entire trek, with the beautiful landscapes and cultural richness, serves as a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
9. Har Ki Dun Trek
| Region: | Uttarakhand, Garhwal Himalayas |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 7-8 Days |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Max Altitude: | 12,000 feet (3,658 meters) |
| Approx Trekking Km: | 47-50 km |
If one needs to say more about 'Treks' in the Indian Himalayas, then Har Ki Dun needs no further introduction. All trekkers have always walked upon these trails and sighting the majestic Swargarohini massif from the valley of Har Ki Dun will be something to remember for a lifetime.
Yet we wanted to stray a little from the beaten path. We wanted to show trekkers a side of the Har-Ki-Dun trek that they rarely do. So we chose a route different from the regular one, which includes terrific scenic beauty on the new route while retaining the old charms of the ancient route, at the heart of which still lies a journey towards the beautiful Swargarohini peaks.
Let's take you through the new route, as some sections are among the best-kept secrets of this region.
For example, take Boslow woods. The new track from Boslo winds on through dense conifers and oaks in the shadow of the mountains before clearing into daylight. Snow patches glide into the forest from high above, cutting across the floor at times-as you must arrive early in the season to appreciate this. A wonderful sight.
Just beyond the Boslow Forest lies another secluded area. Crossing Ruinsara Gad, we climb up to Devsu Thatch. Little is written in the trekking world about Devsu Thatch, though it is one of the most beautiful trek scenes. We would go so far as to say that if you trek to Har Ki Dun and miss the Devsu Thatch, then the trek is incomplete.
Devsu Thatch is a large open clearing way up over the Thamsa River. Being so large, it is technically a meadow in the heart of the forest. Sharply landscaped mounds of grassy hillocks create an eye-candy multi-tiered effect as if islands in dense forests. You can walk barefoot, feeling the soft moist grass under your feet, while exploring Devsu Thatch. It's so beautifully landscaped that we had to spend a day camping here just to take it all in.
As you trek on this new route, you still weave in and out of the old Har Ki Dun route, trekking through ancient villages.
The scenery of these villages will never fail to delight the trekkers. The houses are all wooden and of different designs. The culture, deities, and rituals of the temples are from a civilization we do not know. The temples are the heart of the villages around which life unfolds. The headgear that is part of traditional clothes. It's as if time has stood still.
How to Reach There
To reach Har Ki Dun Trek, your journey starts from Dehradun as it is the nearest major city and which is well connected by rail, road, and air. From Dehradun, one can move to Sankri, which is the base village for the trek. To make your drive hassle-free and scenic, book a ride with Anywhere Cab that offers experienced drivers who will take you comfortably through the beautiful landscapes of Uttarakhand.
Har Ki Dun Trek can be categorised broadly under moderate treks and covers within 7-8 days. It starts by navigating through the relatively unknown Boslow Woods, showing dense conifer and oak forests. In early season time, snow flows from higher mountains inside these forests, so it really looks good. On you go you'll cross Ruinsara Gad, reaching Devsu Thatch - an expansive grassy meadow above the Thamsa River and surrounded with a complete wall of dense forest. These are some of the beautiful clearing juncture points of the trek, however the grassy hillocks present a scenic account that only this place can offer.
The walk also takes you through old villages, where life does not appear to have moved an inch. Wooden houses, the headgear typical of the times, and temples bound in old rituals and gods provide a piece of a civilization that remains pristine. On the way you will see fantastic views of the Swargarohini peaks, making this trek a perfect blend of scenic beauty and cultural richness.
10. Rupin Pass: A Journey of Varied Landscapes
| Region: | Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 7-9 Days |
| Grade: | Moderate to Difficult |
| Max Altitude: | 15,250 feet (4,650 meters) |
| Approx Trekking Km: | 52-65 km |
Treks in the natural wonders of the world would be enough to be undertaken, and for one seeking an adventure to remember at Rupin Pass, this is surely one tremendous choice. The Indian Himalayas are known to hold within itself a gigantic spread of unbelievable landscapes, arduous terrains, and a glimpse of local cultures that call these mountains home. Such gigantic steps of nature unfold themselves at each step during the Rupin Pass trek - a smorgasbord of barristi valleys, waterfalls raining and rushing from cliff tops, and snow-capped peaks. It's especially an exciting activity for adventure and nature lovers alike. Rupin Pass is a very famous Rupin Pass trekking route in Himachal Pradesh, India, known for dramatic changes in scenery and terrain.
It offers the ascension, from about 8,000 feet (2,400 metres) to an elevation of an awesome 15,279 feet at the summit of the pass itself. The trail takes you through evergreen forests, remote villages, lush green meadows, and finally to the pristine snowfields of the Rupin Pass.
How to Reach There
You have to reach Dehradun or Shimla from where you can take the road journey to the base village Dhaula, commencing your Rupin Pass Trek that stretches across Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. To avoid the hassle and make it a relaxed journey, you can book a ride with Anywhere Cab. Experienced drivers would take it as a safe journey through the winding roads of the region.
Rupin Pass is one of the most spectacular varieties of treks that last between 7 to 9 days. The trek emerges as one of the most thrilling and scenic treks in the Indian Himalayas that goes from an altitude of 8,000 feet to an astounding height of 15,250 feet. The trek involves constantly changing landscapes from dense forests and quaint remote villages to lush green meadows and dramatic cliffs with waterfalls falling from great heights.
One of the most remarkable features of the trek is its sheer variety of terrain and scenery. You will pass along one of the more picturesque barristi valleys, witness water cascading from cliffs, and ultimately trek up snowfields at the higher altitudes of the pass. The trail certainly offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks as it goes higher, making this whole trek a visual feast for adventure and nature lovers. Rupin Pass Trek is known for challenging terrain and sudden changes in the environment, providing an unforgettable experience for seasoned trekkers.