Winter Treks in India: Top 5 destinations for trekking this winter
If hiking through snow-laden pine tree forests is something that excites you, this list is for you. Throughout the year, hikers and backpackers from not just the country, but all over the world visit to complete these majestic winter treks in India. The breathtaking views, impeccable landscapes and flora & fauna that is to die for, make North India one of the best places in the world for fellow hikers. Beginners or pros, there’s something here for each one of you!
1. Kuari Pass Trek
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Region: Tapoban, Uttarakhand
Duration: 6 Days
Base Village: Karchhi Village
The beautiful Kuari Pass, located in a glacial valley in Tapoban, Uttarakhand is so whimsical, it almost doesn’t look real. The jaw dropping views of the surrounding snow-clad mountains, the entire way are to die for. An experienced trekker or not, the Kauri Pass Trek is a beginner-friendly trek meant for everybody. The trek takes 6 days to finish but will definitely be worth every moment. This trek is a must-do, mostly for the views of some of India’s most enormously celebrated mountains – Mt Nanda Devi & Mt Dronagiri.
2. Kedarkantha Trek
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Region: Gaichawan Gaon, Uttarakhand
Duration: 6 Days
Base village: Sankri (6,455 ft)
Kedarkantha, not to be confused with the popular Kedarnath trek for all the Bollywood buffs out here, is a 6 day long trek equipped with endearing campsites, the most thrilling views and one of the best winter treks in the Himalayas. One of the easist treks with the best views, the sheer beauty of this trail is no secret. The views from this hiking trail are unmatched, and the villages along the way are true national gems. It is undoubtedly one of the most popular winter treks in India.
3. Chadar Trek, Leh
Difficulty: Extreme
Region: Leh
Duration: 9-10 Days
The rugged beauty of Leh is definitely no secret. The Chadar Trek is one of the most difficult winter treks in India. It is the most unpredictable trek where adventure comes to reality. Physically, this trek is not that hard but it is definitely mentally-challenging. Chadar is basically a frozen river that trekkers walk on in order to reach the peak of this trek. The ravishing beauty of the different sections of the river keeps you enchanted throughout the trek. Although the beauty here is disguised in the form of harsh temperatures, that is the very element that keeps the Chadar river frozen.
Note: Due to the difficulty level of this trek, you will have to spend 3 nights in Let before starting out with the trek, mostly in order to acclimatise. On day 3, a fitness test will be conducted in order to check your vitals and only then will you be granted the trekking permit.
4. Brahmatal Trek
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Region: Raithal, Uttarakhand
Duration: 6 Days
Base Village: Lohajung
Though this paradise is beautiful in every season, specially in the winters it makes for an incredibly beautiful snow trek. The highlight of this trek is the enormous snow-clad mountain views that you will be enjoying while on this trek and the frozen lakes. The frozen lakes are a sight you cannot miss. The surreal lakes look like frozen white carpets, shining like a gleaming star blending perfectly with the surroundings.
5. Triund Trek
Difficulty: Easy
Region: Dharamshala
Duration: 2 Days
If you are from Delhi or Chandigarh and looking for a short weekend trek in the winters, Triund Winter Trek is one of the most popular winter weekend treks to enjoy in India. A perfect trek for beginners, Triund trek can even be taken up by people who have no prior experience in trekking. This beautiful & serene pass located near Dharamshala offers breathtaking views of the Kangra Valley and Dhauladhar mountain ranges. The enchanting Oakwood forests are truly the highlight of this trek.
6. Landsowne
Difficulty: Easy
Region: Landsowne
Duration: 3-4 hours
Base village: Gandhi Park, Landsowne Main Market
Landsowne is an absolute delight when it comes to beginner-friendly treks. Trek to the Snowview point and let the breathtaking sight of the snow-clad Himalayan ranges soothe your soul. With trails that are safe, scenic and pass through enchanting forests that look like something out of a novel, the Hawaghar Trek is the best beginners winter trek you should be taking this year-end. Along with the picturesque views, trails and sunsets, pass through Jauhari khal, Khyber Pass and the little hamlets and tourist-friendly cafes along the way that are true gems.
Here’s a list of StayVista home-stays in Lansdowne, Click here.
7. Ratnagad: The Jewel of Maharashtra
Difficulty: Moderate
Region: Maharashtra
Duration: 5 hours
Base village: Ratanwadi Village
Geographically Ratangad is at the banks of Bhandardara lake of Ahmednagar district. With views of the lake and the highest mountains in Sahyadri looks very much lost in time. This fort offers fabulous views of majestic Sahyadri ranges. Right from Katrabai till Sandhan Valley. And in recent times, this fort is abuzz with the talks of the Karvi flowers in their full bloom covering the lush foliage with a purple sheet. The months of October and November are the best time to visit this place and experience the Karvi flowers blooming season. These Karvi flowers in Ratnagad bloom once in 8 years and were last witnessed in the year 2008.
