Best Winter Treks in India

Whenever we talk about the most popular winter treks in India, the Kedarkantha Trek always tops the list. If the idea of trekking on whitewashed trails, through the pine trees covered in snow fascinates you, then this trek is for you. With a distance of about 20 kilometers, this trek takes you to an elevation of 12,500 feet. Kedarkantha Summit offers panoramic views, making it ideal for nature lovers. This trek can be done at any time of the year but winter is the most suitable time for Kedarkantha Trek. This is when the true beauty of this region can be discovered. Being one of the easiest winter treks in Uttarakhand, Kedarkantha attracts many trekkers each year. Nothing can match the joy and feeling of trekking in the snow.

• Altitude: 12,500 feet
  
• Duration: 5 to 6 days 
  
• Best Time: December to April for trekking in the snow
  
• Difficulty: Simple to moderate 
  
• Fitness Required: You need basic physical fitness and stamina to trek for 5 to 6 hours. 
  
• Key Attractions: snow-covered forests, whitewashed trails, panoramic views of peaks like Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and Black Peak, Juda Ka Talab.

Situated at a height of 12,000 feet, Brahmatal Trek in Uttrakhand’s Chamoli District is one of the few popular winter treks in India. The unique trail will take you through majestic peaks and dense forests. Trekkers will be rewarded with picturesque views from all angles. The prime attraction of the Brahmatal snow trek is its campsites near the Brahmatal and Bekaltal Lake, which remain frozen during winter. Being one of the best winter treks in India, it promises a trekking experience like no other. If you are looking for an adventure combined with comfort, the Brahmatal trek is a must-do.

• Altitude: 12,200 feet 
• Duration: 6-7 days 
• Best Time: Between December and March 
• Difficulty: Moderate level 
• Fitness Required: You need a good fitness level for the Brahmatal Trek and you should be able to walk for 6 to 7 hours daily. 
• Key Attractions: The prime attractions of this trek are the breathtaking sights of Mount Nanda Ghunti and Mount Trishul, the beautiful Brahmatal Lake, and forests covered in snow.

Triund is a charming and serene trek destination. Nestled amidst the Dhauladhar Range at a distance of 18 kilometres from Dharamshala, this is an ideal winter trek destination for beginners. Starting from Galu village you will trek up to 2,850 meters. The total distance of Triund Trek is 7 kilometers and it can be easily done in 2 days. This is a family-friendly Winter Trek in India suitable for every age group. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surroundings from the top and soak in the unique charm of Triund. The beauty of Triund makes it one of the best winter treks in Himachal Pradesh.

• Altitude: 9,350 feet.
• Duration: 2 days 
• Best Time: Between September to December and March to June
• Difficulty: Easy 
• Fitness Required: You just need a basic fitness level for the Triund trek, making it ideal for novice trekkers. 
• Key Attractions: Camp stays in Triund, panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range, easily accessible from McLeod Ganj.

Imagine walking on a thick sheet of ice at an elevation of 11,123 feet and admiring the beauty of the Himalayas, sounds thrilling, Doesn’t it? If this idea of trekking fascinates you, then the Chadar Trek is a must-do. Prepare yourself for a frozen surprise that cannot be compared with any other Himalayan Trek in India. This will be a great and unique experience of trekking on a frozen river. This trek can be best done during the peak winter season when the sheet of ice over the Zanskar River is thick enough to handle the weight of a group of trekkers. This wonderful trek starts from Chilling village and during the trek, you can meet local people residing near your campsite and learn about their way of living. Promising spectacular views and a journey filled with thrill, the Chadar Trek is ideal for those seeking a fun-filled experience.

• Altitude: 11,150 ft
• Duration: 9 to 10 days 
• Best Time: Between January and February
• Difficulty: Challenging 
• Fitness Required: You need a higher fitness level for the Chadar trek; you should be able to walk for 5 to 6 hours on the thick ice sheet. 
• Key Attractions: Ancient caves, walking on frozen rivers, spectacular frozen waterfalls, and small villages.

Situated at 12,303 feet the Dayara Bugyal Trek is ideal for people looking for the best winter treks in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas. This spectacular trek promises a memorable journey, taking trekkers through dense forests, lush green Meadows, and picturesque views of beautiful Himalayan peaks. The Dayara Bugyal Trek begins from Barsu and from here you will climb towards Bugyal, an alpine meadow at a higher elevation surrounded by majestic mountains covered in snow. Famous for a wide variety of flora and fauna, this is one of the best winter treks in India for nature lovers and photographers. If you are an adventure seeker and you are willing to capture some awe-inspiring shots of nature, the Dayara Bugyal Trek is for you. 

• Altitude: 12,000 ft. 
• Duration: 5 to 6 days 
• Best Time: Witness snow between December and February 
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate 
• Fitness Required: beginner level fitness is required for this trek 
• Key Attractions: Views of Gangotri ranges, vast alpine meadows, and trekking in snow.

A snow-covered trail nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, the Kauri Pass Trek offers some of the most awe-inspiring sights of Himalayan Peaks. Famous peaks like Chaukhambha, Kedarnath, Dronagiri, and Nilkantha are visible from the summit, enhancing the beauty of this trek. Taking you up to an elevation of 13,990 feet, the Kuari Pass Trek is one of the easy winter treks in India suitable for novice trekkers. This is an excellent winter trek for trekkers who want to enjoy trekking in the snow along with the panoramic sights of the mountains. Whether you are a newbie or experienced, a trek to Kauri Pass is an experience worth taking advantage of. 

• Altitude: 12,516 feet. 
• Duration: 5 to 6 days 
• Best Time: Between December and March 
• Difficulty: Moderate level 
• Fitness Required: You need good physical health for the Kauri Pass Trek and you should be able to walk for around 6-7 hours per day. 
• Key Attractions: The prime attraction of this trek is the awe-inspiring views of Dronagiri Peak, Mount Nanda Devi, oak forests, and other snow-covered peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas.

A paradise for wildlife junkies and birdwatchers, the Har Ki Dun Trek in Uttarakhand is popular for providing the experience of the best winter trekking in India. Here you can enjoy the views of smothering mountain peaks surrounded by thick pine forests and beautiful valleys. Get ready to return in time with Har Ki Dun Valley in Govind Ballabh Pant National Park. The cradle-shaped valley making the experience unique and memorable for trekkers is worth all the efforts. Being the best December trek in India this trek offers a chance to create great memories to cherish forever. Soak in the incredible views of the surroundings while passing through pine forests, old villages, and meadows. Winter is the ideal time for this trek making it one of the best December treks in India. 

• Altitude: 11,675 feet. 
• Duration: 7 to 8 days 
• Best Time: Between September and December (for snow)
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Fitness Required: You need a moderate level of fitness and stamina to walk for 6 to 7 hours daily
• Key Attractions: Swargarohini Peak, dense forest, Har Ki Dun valley, and camp stay along the river.

Embark on a picturesque journey through the landscapes of the Himalayas with one of the fabulous winter treks in India, the Sandakphu Trek. With a total distance of 32 kilometers, this trek promises spectacular views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s 3rd tallest mountain. Trekkers will pass through charming villages, lush forests, and trails decorated with rhododendrons and wildflowers. This wonderful trek combines the thrill of adventure and nature beauty making it one of the best winter treks in the Himalayas. If you are a mountain enthusiast and like trekking in snow, the Sandakphu Trek is a must-do.

• Altitude: 11,941 feet. 
• Duration: 6 to 7 days 
• Best Time: Between October and January 
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate 
• Fitness Required: You need a good fitness level to be able to walk  6 to 8 hours daily. 
• Key Attractions: Enjoy the sights of famous peaks like Kanchenjunga, Mt. Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse.

Here comes one of the most popular winter treks in India, the Rupin Pass Trek known for its changing scenery. Enjoy a trek with a beautiful river beside you, offering a perfect natural soundtrack. With each step of this trek, you will come across beautiful hanging villages and dense pine forests creating an awe-inspiring scenery. The views of meandering meadows, Glacial valleys, and snow-covered mountains are not worth missing. This is a perfect destination for your winter treks 2024 trip with a group of adventure lovers like you. Get ready for a thrilling trek, capture the scenic beauty of landscapes and snow-capped mountains, and create memories to cherish forever. 

• Altitude: 15,250 feet. 
• Duration: 7 to 9 days 
• Best Time: Between September to October (for snow)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 
• Fitness Required: You need a high fitness level for this trek as there are steep climbs and you will need to walk for around 6 to 8 hours daily on challenging terrain 
• Key Attractions: The prime attractions of Rupin Pass Trek are snow bridges, glacial meadows, Waterfalls, and hanging villages.

Here comes one of the most popular winter treks in India, the Rupin Pass Trek known for its changing scenery. Enjoy a trek with a beautiful river beside you, offering a perfect natural soundtrack. With each step of this trek, you will come across beautiful hanging villages and dense pine forests creating an awe-inspiring scenery. The views of meandering meadows, Glacial valleys, and snow-covered mountains are not worth missing. This is a perfect destination for your winter treks 2024 trip with a group of adventure lovers like you. Get ready for a thrilling trek, capture the scenic beauty of landscapes and snow-capped mountains, and create memories to cherish forever. 

• Altitude: 15,250 feet. 
• Duration: 7 to 9 days 
• Best Time: Between September to October (for snow)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 
• Fitness Required: You need a high fitness level for this trek as there are steep climbs and you will need to walk for around 6 to 8 hours daily on challenging terrain 
• Key Attractions: The prime attractions of Rupin Pass Trek are snow bridges, glacial meadows, Waterfalls, and hanging villages.

If you are looking for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure that combines natural beauty and spirituality, the Chandrashila Chopta Trek is a must-do. Prepare yourself for a captivating expedition through the snow-covered landscapes of the Garhwal Himalayas and witness the ethereal beauty charm of Chopta. Famous for spiritual significance, Natural beauty, and thrilling yet rewarding trek, the Chandrashila Chopta Trek attracts many adventure junkies throughout the year. This is one of the most popular winter treks in India which rewards trekkers with views of some Himalayan Peaks like Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, and others. The frozen Deoriatal Lake is surrounded by snow and offers a perfect sight to be captured.

• Altitude: 13,123 feet.
• Duration: 4 to 5 days 
• Best Time: Between December to March 
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Fitness Required: You just need a normal fitness level and stamina to walk for around 4-5 hours daily.
• Key Attractions: Tungnath Temple, spectacular views of Himalayan peaks, and sunrise

Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, the Nag Tibba Trek is one of the ideal winter treks in India, offering a thrilling snow trekking experience. Starting from Pantwari, located at a height of 4,650 feet, this trek gives you a chance to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings and experience the beauty of snow-covered landscapes while trekking. On the Nag Tibba Trek, you will achieve an elevation of 9,900 feet and the summit offers breathtaking views of Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and the Gangotri group. Nag Tibba Transforms into a winter wonderland with whitewashed trails and snow-covered trees. Visit with your group, capture the natural beauty, and create memories to cherish forever.

• Altitude: 9,914 feet
• Duration: 2 days 
• Best Time: between October to April 
• Difficulty: Easy 
• Fitness Required: Beginner-level fitness is required for the Nag Tibba Trek 
• Key Attractions: Views of Himalayan peaks including Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and the Gangotri group.

Imagine walking through snow-covered mountains where each step takes you close to beautiful nature. This is how the Beas Kund Trek feels like. It starts from Manali and while trekking you will come across fields filled with colourful flowers and majestic mountains capped with snow. Beas Kund is one of the best winter treks in Himachal Pradesh and it is ideal for people who want to spend some peaceful time in nature. Away from the chaos of bustling city life, you’ll also have closer views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges. At the end of this trek, you will be rewarded with scenic views of this tranquil Beas Kund, making all your efforts worth it. This place is perfect for someone looking for the best winter treks in the Himalayas.

• Altitude: 12,772 feet.
• Duration: 3 to 4 days 
• Best Time: November to April (for Snow) and May to October
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Fitness Required: You need a basic fitness level for the Beas Kund trek and you should be able to walk for 4 to 6 hours daily 
• Key Attractions: Beas Lake, views of famous peaks like Friendship Peak and Mount Hanuman Tibba.

Situated in Himachal’s Kullu Valley the Parashar Lake trek is famous for being one of the best snow treks in India with a short distance. Taking you up to an elevation of 8957 feet this is a 16 km long trek that takes you to a charming lake surrounded by some picturesque mountain ranges like Pir Panjal, Kinnaur, and Dhauladhar. Beside the lake, you will find an ancient temple dedicated to Rishi Prashar, adding a spiritual touch to this trek. Trekking trails of Parashar Lake will take you through snow-covered peaks and dense forests. While trekking, you will see apple orchid groves, oak, rhododendrons, and Pine. Being one of the easy winter treks in India this is suitable to do with families.

• Altitude: 8,956 ft
• Duration: 2 days 
• Best Time: Any time of the year except the rainy season
• Difficulty: Easy 
• Fitness Required: You need a beginner level fitness for this trek 
• Key Attractions: Dhauladhar range views, Parashar Lake, and a pagoda-style temple.

Nestled in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, the Kasol Kheerganga trek is one of the most popular and easiest Himalayan winter treks in India. The trek route takes you through some picturesque views of snow streams, valleys, and mountains. This trek does not require prior experience, making it perfect for beginners and experienced-level trekkers. As you stroll through the picturesque terrain of Himachal Pradesh, you will be rewarded with charming views of nature. Reaching at a height of 9700 feet the trail of Kasol Kheerganga trek passes through cascading waterfalls, wooden bridges, dense pine forests, and picturesque meadows. For people looking for an easy and picturesque trek journey, the Kasol Kheerganga trek is a must-do.

• Altitude: 9,678 feet
• Duration: 2 days 
• Best Time: Between May and November
• Difficulty: Easy level 
• Fitness Required: beginner level 
• Key Attractions: Beautiful Parvati Valley, Kheerganga’s Natural Hot springs, and trails surrounded by dense forests

Embark on a trekking journey towards the Roopkund Lake located in Uttrakhand, famous because of over 500 human skeletons found at the banks of this lake. At an elevation of 4,800 meters, this is one of the popular winter treks in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas. Also known as a mystery Lake it attracts many adventure enthusiasts worldwide looking for the best winter treks in India. The trek route rewards trekkers with well-known peaks like Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, and Neelkantha. This trek is rated as moderate on the scale of difficulty levels for this you need prior trek experience and good physical health.

• Altitude: 15,750 feet
• Duration: 8 to 9 days 
• Best Time: Between September to October for snow and May to June for lush greenery
• Difficulty: Challenging level 
• Fitness Required: For the Roopkund trek you need a high fitness level as you will have to walk over challenging terrain for long hours 
• Key Attractions: Peaks covered in snow, Mysterious skeleton lake, and beautiful meadows.

Trekking in the Himalayas is more than just accomplishing a higher elevation; it is about experiencing the magnificence of majestic mountains. The Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek is famous for its natural beauty and Himalayan Peaks creating a picturesque backdrop. This hike takes you through grasslands, landscapes filled with blooming flowers, and chirping birds. Situated in Roopkund Trek’s Midway, this is a challenging 6-day-long Himalayan trek. Your journey will begin from Lohajung and the last point of this journey is the charming Wan village. You might also encounter wildlife and capture some awe-inspiring pictures.

• Altitude: 12,500 feet. 
• Duration: 6 to 7 days 
• Best Time: Between September and October 
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging 
• Fitness Required: You need a good fitness level for this trek. 
• Key Attractions: Beautiful Meadows, views of Mt. Nanda Ghunti and Trishul, camp stay amidst nature.

The Bhrigu Lake is a high-altitude lake in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, which is one of the best winter treks in the Himalayas. This lake offers a perfect trekking opportunity for seasoned, beginners, and Families. Situated at 14,000 feet the Bhrigu Lake Trek promises a memorable experience, offering perfect sights of grasslands, meadows, and the seven sister peaks. It is believed that saint Maharishi Bhrigu used to meditate near the lake in ancient times. Admire the beauty of nature with this one of the top winter treks in India and make memories to cherish forever.

• Altitude: 14,100 feet
• Duration: 3 to 4 days 
• Best Time: November to April for snow 
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate 
• Fitness Required: Beginner-level fitness is required 
• Key Attractions: scenic Bhrigu Lake, stunning views of the Pir Panjal range, dense forests, and meadows.

Kareri Lake journey in the winter guarantees a wonderful journey through the picturesque landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. Located near Dharmashala, this trek starts from Kareri village and takes you to this beautiful lake. Trekking to this lake in winter promises a magical and memorable adventure for all nature and thrill seekers. During peak winter you will see a thick sheet of ice over Kareri Lake and the cold weather can make the trek challenging but once you reach the lake and witness the beauty, all the efforts will be worth it. On the way to this lake, you will come across dense Oak and Pine forests and the other best thing about winter treks in India is that you find less crowd.

• Altitude: 9,650 ft
• Duration: 3 days 
• Best Time: Between September to October and May to June 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Fitness Required: You need a good fitness level for the Kareri Lake Trek 
• Key Attractions: Tranquil environment, Kareri Lake, sights of Dhauladhar range, and picturesque pine forests.

Nestled in Himachal Pradesh’s Dhuladhar range, the Indrahar Pass Trek is one of the popular winter treks in India. Starting from McLeodganj, the trek route takes you through streams, thick forests, and meadows and you will see some famous Himalayan Peaks. The distance of this trek is around 35 kilometres which can be completed in 4 days. This is a moderate to difficult trek for which you need to have good physical fitness and past trekking experience would be better. During winter you will have stunning sights of snow-covered peaks and clear skies. The trails pass through many small villages where you can meet locals and learn about their way of living.

• Altitude: 14,245 ft
• Duration: 4 to 5 days 
• Best Time: Between May to October 
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 
• Fitness Required: You need a High fitness level as the Trek involves Steep climbs and some difficult sections. 
• Key Attractions: Amazing sights of Dhauladhar range, Lahesh Caves, rocky landscapes, and forests of Rhododendron

Prepare yourself for an awe-inspiring Hampta Pass in Himachal that will give you unforgettable memories to cherish forever. Situated at a height of 14,000 feet this trek covers a distance of around 26 kilometers. Enjoy trekking through the trails decorated with meadows, forests, blooming flowers, and waterfalls. The start point of this trek is Manali, Himachal’s charming town, and passes through different terrains. The main attraction of the Hampta Pass Trek is the Chandratal Lake, which will be seen at the end. The trek to Hampta Pass is more than just a journey; it is an adventure that will leave you with awesome memories. So, if you are looking for winter treks in Himachal Pradesh, Hampta Pass Trek is a must.

• Altitude: 14,000 feet 
• Duration: 4 to 5 days 
• Best Time: June to September 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Fitness Required: Medium level of fitness is required for the Hampta Pass Trek 
• Key Attractions: Chandratal Lake, Lush green Kullu Valley, snow bridges, barren Spiti Valley, river crossing

Located in Ladakh, the Markha Valley Trek offers one of the most fascinating winter trek experiences. The journey towards Markha Valley takes you through high passes, colourful prayer flags, exotic wildlife, and mane walls. During the trek, you will come across many small villages of Ladakh, which will bring you closer to the culture of Ladakh. You might face some challenges during this trek like steep ascents, crossing high passes, and stream crossings. You should prepare yourself physically and have prior trek experience for a safe and comfortable experience. Markha Valley Trek is ideal for everyone looking for the best snow treks in India.

• Altitude: 17,100 ft
• Duration: 8 to 9 days 
• Best Time: Between June to September 
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 
• Fitness Required: You need a high fitness level for the Markha Valley Trek
• Key Attractions: Buddhist monasteries, small villages of Ladakh, High-altitude deserts, and spectacular views of Kang Yatse Peak.