Winter Treks, walking through a picturesque trail, unfurling the majestic surrounding on every step, hearing those tuneful chirpings and nature sleeping by putting a blanket of thick snow, shielding meadows, forests of oaks, pines and deodars, glowing after the morning rays of sunshine! It sounds dreamy cold yet the mood. Winter treks are challenging, exciting with snowy terrain and many magnificent views of snow clads. They are difficult, sometimes moderate yet cherishable for lifetime. Not everyone is a fan of such treks though. You need to be fit, brave with high immunity to overcome the obstacles which you might face during your travel. Nevertheless, many trekkers, travellers prefer them more to experience an exceptional journey. India has many places where you can enjoy snow trekking even if you are an amateur.

Let’s find out some breathtaking winter treks across India that you might like to check out from your wishlist for a thrilling winter adventure.

Kedarkantha, An Exceptional Winter Trek

Known as the best winter trek for beginners, Kedarkantha is one of the most popular excursions during the season. Surrounded by majestic views and snow-covered meadows you get to experience the village life and glorious sunrises during your visit. It is located at the height of 3800 meters in Govind wildlife sanctuary and is a bliss for those who want to discover the thrill of snow trekking vividly. It remains open all round the year and takes around 4-5 days to complete the trek.

Har Ki Dun

This popular Himalayan trek of 3500 meters is also quite famous among the beginners who want to explore in winter. You get to explore some of the less travelled trails of Uttarakhand amidst astounding views of Jaundar glacier, and Swargrohini peaks. This trek takes around 5-6 days and might become difficult during heavy snowfall. Not to forget this trek is a blessing for the nature enthusiasts and mountain lovers.

Chopta Deoriatal Chandrashila Winter Trek

Covered in velvety meadows Chopta remains one of the unexplored beauty of Himalayas. Whether you visit in winters or summer, this magical hamlet will not disappoint you. Starting by trekking to Deoria Tal and then visiting Chopta for Tungnath & Chandrashila trek, you can cover all three of them by exploring further. 

Nag Tibba Trek( Pantwari village)

Known as one of the simplest winter treks in lower Himalayas in Garhwal region. The altitude of this trek is 9910 feet. You get to spot Kedarnath peak, Bandarpoonch peak and Doon valley while walking through quaint villages and the beautiful forest of Oak, Rhododendrons, Cedar and Alpine. This beginner trek takes around 2-3 days as per your location and mostly enjoyed on weekends.

Gorson Bugyal

Auli Gorson Bugyal trek is one of the easiest trekking trails in Gharwal region of Uttarakhand. The exciting views of alpine forests, famous meadows of Bugyals and dense rhododendrons forests with white laden snow are the best part of this trek. This 3 km (one way) trek encompasses many Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Kamet, the Mana Parvat, the Dunagiri and in a clear sky, it appears magical.

Dodital

Dodital known as the birthplace of Lord Ganesha is another serene winters trek and could be your next destination! On the way to Dodital, you reach Darwa Pass, and you can see Gangotri & Yamunotri both valleys. Bander punch ranges, snow-covered conifer forests, crests and high altitude lake full of Himalayan golden trouts is a complete delight to eyes.

Brahmatal 

Walking towards the unexposed forest trails confronting majestic Nanda Ghunti and Mt. Trishul in peace, you get thrilled by the truly magical views of the whole area. for yet pumped up in the chilled weather of January-February is enough to make that adrenaline rush and thrill you are craving for during winters. Prepare yourself beforehand because you need to be fit to face some challenges at an altitude of 12100 feet, right!

Dayara Bugyal

Ideal for beginners, the trek route till Dayara Bugyal has a vast expanse of the lush green sketch, snow-covered meadows, beautiful dense oak forests and is known as one of the most beautiful treks of Uttarakhand. This place receives heavy snowfall and, hence one can enjoy trekking with breathtaking 360-degree views of the whole area. The trek starts from Barsu Village taking around 3-4 days in total.

Bijli Mahadev

Do you want an easy trek of a day, covered in snow, surrounded by snow-clad Pir Panjal ranges with a touch of spiritual feeling around? Bijli Mahadev supports hundreds of pilgrimages every year from different corners. At the top, you get to see a panoramic view of Kullu and Parvati valley.

Triund

Situated at an altitude of 2800 meters, Triund is the base camp of people travelling to Indrahar pass. Mighty Dhauladhar ranges play with your eyes and the breathtaking views of Bhagsu village, Mcleodganj, Dharamshala and Kangra valley during the trek might give a little heartache for a while. In extreme winter, you might experience the snowy trail and snowfall on the whole way, making it difficult at points but, it is worth the risk. Do check the weather before making any plans.

Parashar Lake

Located in the Mandi district of Himachal at an altitude of 2730 metres, the trek trail confronts 180-degree view of Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal and Kinnaur mountain ranges. This trek could be covered in 1-2 days. You can find snow-laden in Parashar Lake trek till early March.

Chandrakhani Pass

Situated at an altitude of 3660 in Kullu region, Chandrakhani Pass is known as one of the most beautiful passes. Bestowed with a mesmerizing view of Pir Panjal, Deo Tibba and Parvati range of mountains, the trek will not disappoint you in terms of adventure and serenity. 

Have you already started picking up the dates but wait are you prepared yet? Well, you can by staying fit and putting enough warmers to make you go on! People come from different corners of the country to discover some hidden mysteries that these mountains offer. 

Comment below if you have ever been to any such winter treks. Share your experience, we would love to hear them!

Picture Sources:

Featured image(c): https://unsplash.com/photos/xvNE3FW8Vd8

When you know that thrill can beat any cold only if are ready for that winter trek challenge. (c): https://unsplash.com/s/photos/kedarkantha-winters

Are you ready for Chandrashila Trek? (c): https://unsplash.com/photos/CV7KPRM6fHc

Are you a beginner? Choose from some of the easiest treks and experience the best.(c): https://unsplash.com/photos/tgIZagjhMtk