Best Treks in India in December That Belong on Every Trekker’s List
The end of the year brings with it a crisp new energy. December in India is when the outdoors feel inviting. The rains have washed the skies clean, the sun is softer, and the Himalayas begin to wear their coat of snow. It is the month when valleys open up in clear visibility, forts stand tall against bright blue skies, and trails welcome trekkers with both adventure and calm.
From the rugged Sahyadri hills in Maharashtra to the green slopes of Karnataka and the white mountains of Himachal, December is one of the most rewarding times for trekking. Some trails are short and beginner-friendly, others are longer snow-filled paths that demand stamina, but each one promises something unforgettable.
Below is a guide to the best treks in India in December, spread across three states, each offering a different mood of winter.
In this Blog
Treks in December in Maharashtra
The Sahyadri ranges near Mumbai and Pune are perfect for quick weekend treks. December brings cool, dry weather that makes ridge walks and fort climbs far more enjoyable than in the humid months.
1. Rajmachi Trek
Rajmachi is one of the most popular December treks in Maharashtra. The twin forts of Shrivardhan and Manaranjan rise above a plateau that you reach by walking through forests and meadows.
Why go: Climb the old fort walls, explore small shrines, and watch mist gather and disperse in the valleys below.
Weather: Pleasant days around 15 to 25°C with cooler nights.
Stay: Camp near the fort for a raw trekking experience or book a villa in Lonavala for more comfort.
2. Harishchandragad Trek
Harishchandragad is known for its dramatic Konkan Kada cliff that curves in a natural amphitheatre. The fort is dotted with caves, shrines, and ancient walls that tell stories of its past.
Why go: Stand at Konkan Kada and take in the sweeping views, step into Kedareshwar Cave to see the Shiva linga, and wander along stone fortifications weathered by time.
Weather: Cool and dry, making the climb comfortable.
Stay: Many trekkers camp in caves, while others prefer villas in Igatpuri or homestays near Malshej.
3. Kalsubai Peak
At 1,646 metres, Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra and a must-do for anyone looking for a challenge. The trail has metal ladders at steep sections and rewards you with endless views at the summit.
Why go: Visit the temple at the top, watch a golden sunrise, and enjoy the feeling of standing on the highest point in the state.
Weather: Clear mornings and brisk evenings make December the safest time to attempt this trek.
Stay: Stay in simple homes at Bari village or opt for villas around Bhandardara lake.
Treks in December in Karnataka
Karnataka’s hills turn gentle in December. The forests stay green, the air is crisp, and the trails offer just the right mix of effort and reward.
4. Kudremukh Trek
Kudremukh is named after its horse-shaped peak and is loved for its endless grasslands and shola forests. Small streams cut across the trail and wildlife sightings are common.
Why go: Walk through open meadows, cool off at Hanuman Gundi waterfall, and enjoy local hospitality in Chikkamagaluru villages.
Weather: Cool and breezy, usually between 12 and 20°C.
Stay: Choose eco-homestays or villas set among coffee plantations.
5. Kumara Parvatha Trek
Kumara Parvatha is considered one of the toughest treks in Karnataka. Starting at the Kukke Subramanya temple, the trail winds through dense forest before opening into grasslands that stretch into the horizon.
Why go: Test your endurance, enjoy temple traditions at the base, and spend a night under the stars at Battara Mane.
Weather: Cool temperatures in December make the long walk easier.
Stay: Most trekkers camp along the way, while some relax later in villas in Coorg.
6. Skandagiri Night Trek
The Skandagiri night trek is an experience like no other. Trekkers begin the climb after midnight and reach the summit just before dawn to watch the sun rise over a blanket of clouds.
Why go: Witness the magical “sea of clouds” sunrise and visit Papagni Mutt near the base.
Weather: Nights are cold at 10 to 15°C so warm clothes are essential.
Stay: Guesthouses and villas in Nandi Hills are good options nearby.
Treks in December in Himachal Pradesh
If you dream of snow, Himachal Pradesh in December is where you should go. Pine forests, frozen lakes, and mountain passes create landscapes that look like something out of a winter postcard.
7. Triund Trek
Just a few hours from McLeodganj, Triund is a short trek that offers beginners a taste of the Himalayas. In December, snow often begins to appear along the trail.
Why go: Walk through rhododendron forests, camp overnight, and combine your trek with visits to Dharamkot or McLeodganj.
Weather: Light snow makes it a perfect introduction to winter trekking.
Stay: Camping is common though Dharamshala has plenty of villas and homestays.
8. Kedarkantha Trek
Kedarkantha is one of the most loved snow treks in India. The route winds through pine forests heavy with snow and ends at a summit with panoramic views of Himalayan peaks.
Why go: Camp in snow, experience silence broken only by crunching footsteps, and take in views of the Swargarohini mountains.
Weather: Heavy snowfall begins in December and nights dip below freezing.
Stay: Stay in Sankri village at simple homestays or camp along the trail.
9. Prashar Lake Trek
Prashar Lake is a smaller, quieter trek near Mandi. In December, the lake sometimes freezes, and the floating island at its center adds to the surreal feel.
Why go: Visit the three-storey pagoda temple, walk along snowy ridges, and enjoy the stillness of an offbeat winter spot.
Weather: Sub-zero temperatures and frozen paths make it a true winter experience.
Stay: Camp near the lake or book a stay in Mandi town.
10. Hampta Pass Trek
Hampta Pass connects the lush Kullu Valley with the stark and barren Lahaul Valley, offering two very different worlds in one trek.
Why go: Cross icy rivers, pass through alpine meadows, and step into snow-covered landscapes.
Weather: Early December is best before heavy snow blocks the higher stretches.
Stay: Homestays and villas in Manali are the most convenient options.
December is one of the most rewarding months to trek in India. Maharashtra offers forts and history, Karnataka has rolling meadows and wildlife, and Himachal delivers on snowy landscapes that feel like another world.
If you are a beginner, Triund and Rajmachi are safe and accessible. If you want snow, Kedarkantha should be at the top of your list. And if you are seeking a challenge, Kumara Parvatha or Kalsubai will keep your adrenaline high.
Pair your adventure with the right stay, whether it is a village homestay, a campsite, or a villa with mountain views. December has a way of making treks more memorable, combining crisp winter air with landscapes that stay etched in memory long after you return.
Cover Image Credits: Aadil Mehraj via Pexels
Article by Ruben Saha
