famous winter treks in india

12 Best Winter Treks in India You Must Undertake

Winter treks in India open up the opportunity for thrilling adventure along with memories of a lifetime. Winter in India brings an abundance of snow to the Himalayas, which heightens the fun of undertaking difficult winter treks in India. In this blog, we introduce you to the 12 Best Winter Treks in India.

Embark on some of the most memorable journeys, such as those that one reads about only in fables and adventure stories. The scenery above all is full of exotic meadows, magical oak forests, refreshing and majestic waterfalls, lakes, remote villages, and more.

Here are the 12 best winter treks in India

Chadar trek – frozen river zanskar trek, kuari pass trek, nag tibba trek, prashar lake trek, kedarkantha trek, dodital trek, chopta chandrashila trek, sandakphu trek, har ki dun trek.

Chamba – Dalhousie Trek

Dzongri Trek

Dayara bugyal trek.

The Chadar Trek in Ladakh is one of the most challenging, picturesque, and exciting winter treks in the Himalayas though also one of the toughest and most adventurous. Surrounded by massive and steep mountainous walls, the weather is severely cold, and therefore requires thorough preparation for the excursion.

The entire stretch approximately spans 100 km, which takes about 8 days on one side depending upon the conditions. Also, you will spend nights in caves or in spaces provided by the locals and eat the local Ladakhi food. However, despite the harsh conditions, it is one of the most memorable journeys you will ever undertake.

This Indian winter trek attracts a number of local and international tourists every year. The path of the expedition is over the frozen Zanskar River (a tributary of the Indus), which is an adventure of a lifetime, making the Chadar Trek one of the most difficult winter treks in the world.

Maximum Altitude : About 10,900 ft. above sea level.
Duration : Take approximately 7-9 days to complete.
Difficulty Level : Moderate Difficulty owing to the sub-zero temperatures.
Distance Covered : Approximately 70-100 kilometers.

Book your Chadar Trek with indianholiday.com

Kuari Pass is an amazing trek that affords the traveler one of the most incredible sights of majestic Himalayan peaks. Marvel at Chaukhamba Range, Mana, Kamet, and Abl Gamin, stretching as far as the Tibet border. In addition, peaks such as the Changabang, Dunagiri, Nanda Ghunti, Dronagiri, Rishi Pahar, and Neelkanth are also visible.

The Kuari pass trail is also called Lord Curzon Trail in the honor of the former British Viceroy of India, who first hiked through it. Start from the village of Dhak, after you arrive at Joshimath from Haridwar by road. The trek approx. takes about 5 days to complete. A tent, a permit, a guide, and food supplies are important for a trekker to keep with them, which can be organized at the Joshimath itself.

Maximum Altitude : About 12,763 ft. above sea level.
Duration : Takes about 4-6 days to complete.
Difficulty Level : Easy to Moderate.
Distance Covered : Approximately 33 kilometers.

Nag Tibba or serpent’s peak is the highest peak in the Nag Tibba range, which is one of the three principle ranges of the Lower Himalayas besides Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal. Perched at a height of approximately 9,924 feet above sea level, this is one of the best winter treks in India for beginners. One can see the beautiful Bandarpoonch peak as well as the Gangotri group of peaks, Kedarnath peak, snowy crests of Chanabang, and Doon valley.

The place is said to be the mythological abode of Nag Devta. The trek is full of mesmerizing flora. It passes through a mix of Deodar and Oak forests humming with a rich diversity of birds and animals. While natural beauty, in essence, the trek also offers a wonderful opportunity to observe the Garhwali way of life closely.

Maximum Altitude: About 9,924 ft. above sea level.
Duration : Takes about 2-3 days to complete.
Distance Covered : Approximately 16 kilometers.

Prashar Lake Trek is located at a distance of nearly 50 km from Mandi and is one of the most peaceful and offbeat treks in Himachal Pradesh. The place gets literally wrapped up in snow in winters and offers a majestic view of golden rays. The destination of the trek is a beautiful lake with deep blue waters, held sacred by the local people. Here visit the three-storied pagoda, located just along the lake. The shrine is dedicated to the sage Prashar, who is said to have meditated here.

Reaching here one can get clear and magnificent sights of the Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal, and Kinnaur ranges. The trek takes about 2-3 days to cover if started from the Baggi village.

Maximum Altitude : About 8,477 ft. above sea level.
Duration : Take about 2-3 days to complete.
Difficulty Level : Easy to Moderate
Distance Covered : Approximately 8 kilometers from Baggi village.

One of the top winter treks in India, the Kedarkantha winter trek is a beautiful trail that takes you through remote villages, expansive pastures and meadows, snowy courses, and majestic views of the great Himalayas. Kedarkantha Trek starts with a small village called Sankari. Kedarkantha is one of the easiest treks of the lot and is easily traversable by first-timers.

The destination is situated in the hills of the Tons Valley and the trail takes you through the rich and protected flora and fauna of the Govind National Park. Reaching the target, one can find the most spectacular views of great mountain ranges such as Swargrohini, Bandarpoonch, Black peak, etc. Also, the locals are extremely friendly and helpful making the journey easy and comfortable as well as an unforgettable one.

Maximum Altitude : About 12,500 ft. above sea level.
Duration : 5-6 days
Difficulty Level : Easy to Moderate. No prior experience in trekking is required.
Distance Covered : Approximately 20 kilometers.

A dramatic and picturesque trail located at an incredible height, the Dodital trek is among the best places to trek in December in India. The hike is essentially a forest trek and it passes through some of the most beautiful thickets of Oak, Rhododendron, Fir, and Deodar.

In winters, the landscape gets entirely capped in snow. However, the campsites are relatively easy to access. Dodital is a sacred lake and home to the famous Himalayan Golden Mahseer Fish and the surrounding area is believed to be the abode of Lord Ganesha. After reaching Uttarkashi, the trekker may take a short jeep excursion to Sangamchatti, from where the real hike begins.

One can take this route via Agoda to Dodital and Darwa pass and return by the same route. Another alternative path is through Hanumanchatti through Yamunotri road to Kandola.

However, there is no facility for hikers on this route. The trek includes camping along the mesmerizing Dodital Lake as well as affording incredible views of Bandarpoonch peak and the magnificent snowy peaks of Dhauladhar. Moreover, this beautiful jungle pathway is a route between the Gangotri and Yamnotri regions.

Maximum Altitude : About 13,615 ft. above sea level.
Duration : Takes about 5-6 days to complete.
Difficulty Level : Moderate to Difficult.
Distance Covered : Approximately 27 kilometers.

Chopta Chandrashila trek is one of the most famous treks in the Himalayas . Located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, travel to Tunganath, the highest situated Shiva temple in India, also one of the five Kedar temples revered in Hinduism.

The hike begins beyond the temple. The trail lets you pass through stunning sights as there is little to refute, the title given to Chopta as the “Mini Switzerland of India”. Situated at the maximum altitude of 12,877 ft. above sea level, this is an all-season hike that affords you the most beautiful vision of Nanda Devi, Kedar, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks and an amazing all-embracing view of the Garhwal Himalayas.

Chandrashila is a short but arduous trek. However, there are fences through the path which makes walking a bit easy.

Maximum Altitude : Approximately 13,200 ft. above sea level.
Duration : Takes about 3-4 days to complete.
Distance Covered : Approximately 5 kilometers.

Known widely as the “Trekker’s Wonderland”, Sakdakphu is the highest point in West Bengal from where you can catch some of the most unforgettable sights of the world’s highest mountain peaks of Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. With some of the most fertile regions of rich flora comprising rhododendrons, magnolias, primulas, orchids, and ferns of distinct varieties, describing the path, the hike is picturesque and thrilling.

However, most of the trek lies along the India-Nepal border, therefore making the trekker move in and out of both countries. Another major highlight is the Kalapokhri or the Black Pond. It is a curious pond whose water never freezes, be it any season or weather. This is the reason why the Buddhists consider this water holy.

In addition, marvel at The Valley of Poison, known as the Bikhey Bhanjyang en route. As a matter of fact, a poisonous flower called Aconite grows here from where the valley derives its name. While the trek varies from moderate to difficult along the route, the trekker is nevertheless rewarded with beautiful sights and stunning experiences when reaching the summit.

Maximum Altitude : About 11,500 ft. above sea level.
Duration : Takes about 8-9 days to complete.
Distance Covered : Approximately 45 kilometers.

Har ki Dun is one of the most popular treks in India in the Garhwal region and is relatively moderate enough to let the trekkers with no prior experience slog through its paths. The trail passes through some of the most remote and least explored regions of the Garhwal region. The natives of Garwal are simple-hearted, warm, and friendly towards outsiders. Along with the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, the forested path is abundantly blessed. In fact, it is a kind of heaven for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Situated at the base of Fateh Parvat, Har ki Dun is believed to be the same site from where king Yudhisthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, ascended to heaven with a dog. During winters, the place gets completely covered with snow and offers an excellent spot for the snow trek.

Maximum Altitude : About 11,000 ft. above sea level.
Duration : Takes approximately 6-8 days to complete.
Difficulty Level : Medium Difficulty. However, no prior experience in trekking is required.
Distance Covered : Approximately 90 kilometers.

Chamba – Dalhousie Trek

Source: http://climber-explorer.blogspot.in/

With a wealth of deodar forests, the Chamba – Dalhousie trek is amazing throughout. Rendering excellent sights of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges, the maximum altitude you scale is nearly 8,000 ft. above sea level. While the path is relatively easy, the views are difficult to find anywhere else. Pass through dense forests of Kalatop – Khajair wildlife sanctuary. Experience the bliss of the Dhauladhar mountain range while you trek.

With its wonderful sights, cool weather, and picturesque forest path, it is very popular with regular hikers. Moreover, children also embark upon the easy trail. In addition, Khajjiar , one of the important spots is also called Mini Switzerland by the locals and tourists.

Maximum Altitude : Approximately 8,000 ft. above sea level.
Distance Covered : Approximately 35 kilometers.

Set high in the Himalayas between the imposing peaks of China, Bhutan, and Nepal, Sikkim,is the Yuksom-Dzongri pass. Blessed with unmatched beauty, the Dzongri trek is one of the most challenging treks in India.

First, you pass the forests of Rhododendron, then the valleys wrapped with lichens and moss, ultimately to might peaks. The route also offers an exciting chance for birdwatching in India. In fact, the trek is also known as the “walk through paradise”. However, it does offer a fairly difficult gradient and exertion.

Maximum Altitude : About 13,800 ft. above sea level.
Duration : Takes about 9-10 days to complete.
Distance Covered : Approximately 60 kilometers from Yuksam, one way.

When you think of the easiest treks in India, Dayara Bugyal is the first name on the list. It is perfect for beginners. Trek through scenic landscapes, dense oak forests, and lush green meadows. In addition, climb the stunning height of approximately 10,000 ft. above sea level. Dayara Bugyal, meaning ‘meadow’ in the local language spans 28 sq. km. Besides trekking, it is also an excellent arena for skiing. Winters in India bring heavy snow to the meadow.

The trek begins from Barsu village, 45 km from Uttarkashi. Moreover, enjoy views of beautiful mountains along with a view of Barnala Tal. Also, Dayara Bugyal is among the most beautiful treks. In fact, it is particularly a favorite for many seasoned hikers.

Maximum Altitude : About 10,000 ft. above sea level.
Duration : 5-7 days

Wake up the adventurer in you and embark on one of the popular winter treks in India. Book customizable packages with Indian Holiday to Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, and more places that are known for several winter treks.

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12 winter treks in India that promise stunning views

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Summer and monsoon treks get all the love but there’s something undeniably satisfying about feeling the crunch of snow under your boots. It is magical to fall asleep under some of the clearest skies of the year and to wake up to vast expanses of all-white landscapes that stretch as far as you can see. But the absolute best thing about winter treks is that for the most part, you’ll be able to do it without the crowds. Gear up and get moving on these gorgeous mountain trails.

The best winter treks in India

Triund trek, himachal pradesh.

Photo: Yashas Garg/Indiahikes

Duration: 2 days; Level: Easy; Highest point: 2,827m; Starting point: Dharamkot

The Triund Trek is perfect for a short weekend getaway in the Himalayas. Summers usually are the busiest months here, so if you’re trying to escape the crowds and enjoy stargazing, October to December is a good time to visit. It can be done in 4-6 hours but camp the night to really enjoy the views of Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar range. While the trail is short, it’s steep. But every now and then, you will be able to catch your breath during easy, flat trails through rhododendron, pine and coniferous forests. The highlight of the trek is the beautiful sunsets that paint Himachal’s skies and the starry nights.

Markha Valley Trek, Ladakh

12 winter treks in India that promise stunning views

Duration: 6-9 days; Level: Difficult; Highest point: 4,150m; Starting point: Leh

The Markha Valley expedition is one of Ladakh’s most famous summer treks due to its close proximity to Leh. But if a quiet getaway and the chance of spotting the elusive snow leopard is what you’re here for, then opt for a winter trek between January and February. It takes you past the Indus river, Buddhist monasteries, mountain villages, the willow-lined Zingchen gorge and the Hemis National Park. During the walk to the highest point of the trek in Markha, you’ll see fascinating geological creations and large boulders before you head down to camp in Thachungtse, where you can watch herds of blue sheep scale steep cliffs with great agility.

Chadar Trek, Ladakh

Randonneurs trek Chadar 22 janvier 2019 vallÃ©e de la riviÃ¨re gelÃ©e du Zanskar Ladakh Inde.

Duration: 8 days; Level: Difficult; Highest point: 11,123ft; Starting point: Chilling

If you’re willing to brave temperatures that dip to -20 degrees Celsius and occasional avalanches, the Chadar Trek is an adventure you’ll boast about for a lifetime. During winter, the main road to Zanskar Valley remains closed due to safety reasons, and the only way to reach Ladakh’s main town of Leh is by walking across the frozen river. The trek involves trudging through swathes of ice which are basically the frozen waters of the river; Chadar translates to blanket in Hindi. While for trekkers, this is an adventure, for Zanskaris, this route is a way of life. The 105km trek that requires travellers to cover at least 15km a day begins from Chilling, a village about 37 miles west of Leh. The window to trek is narrow, as the ice only starts to strengthen in January through February; come March it begins to thin and can easily break into sheets of water.

Sham Valley Winter Trek, Ladakh

European trekkers cross a footbridge near the village of Snertse. Zanskar Ladakh India.

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Duration: 5-6 days; Level: Easy; Highest point: 13,057ft; Starting point: Leh

The Sham Valley trek is ideal for beginners and is best undertaken when Ladakh’s extreme winters start to wane during March-April. The trek not only offers views of snow-covered mountains but also a glimpse into Ladakhi culture, with pitstops at several villages like Sumdo and Hemis Shukpachan. Evenings are spent at local homes savouring Ladakhi cuisine or taking a stroll through local markets. On the way back to Leh, the route also makes a stop at the Alchi monastery, which dates back to the 11th century and sits at the banks of the Indus River. While the trek spans two to three days, a few days are blocked to acclimatise.

Dodital Trek, Uttarakhand

Photo: Aquaterra

Duration: 6 days; Level: Moderate; Highest point: 3,900m; Starting point: Kuflon Basics Village, Uttarkashi

Dodital is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ganesha, and is named after dodi (Himalayan trout) found in the lake here. The trekking site is said to be beautiful all year round, but all the more gorgeous in the winters (October-March) when it’s covered in inches of snow. Dodital lies in the Garhwal Himalayas. On one side is the Bandarpoonch and Swargarohini ranges and on the other is the Darwa. Day four is when you will climb up to Darwa Pass (4,150m) from Dodital to soak in views of these peaks. While going downhill, unwind with a dip in a natural water pool and dinner by a bonfire.

Kuari Pass Trek, Uttarakhand

Duration: 6-9 days; Level: Moderate; Highest point: 3,395m; Starting point: Rishikesh

The Kuari Pass affords some of the most breathtaking views of the Himalayas. They range from Trishul in the east to the peaks of Kedarnath, Chaukhambha, Nilkantha, Kamet, Nanda Devi and Dronagiri as you move southwards. While the pass is accessible for 10 months in the year (except July and August), it’s a great option for a winter trek. It is one of the few passes that’s trekkable this time of the year, with the rest of the Himalayas buried deep in snow. On day seven, after you’ve soaked in panoramic views of snow-clad peaks, the trek takes you to a campsite in India’s little Switzerland—Auli.

Dayara Bugyal Trek, Uttarakhand

Photo: Vismay B/Indiahikes

Duration: 4-8 days; Level: Easy; Highest point: 3,606m; Starting point: Raithal

Look upon snow-covered meadows as far as your eyes reach on this trek. While the trek is accessible for eight months of the year (except during the monsoon months), the Dayara Bugyal is a sight to behold in the winter months due to the sheer vastness of its meadows. Getting to the open stretch is no easy task. It involves an arduous trek through forests and thick snow. While the climb may leave you breathless, so will the views. Standing at 12,000ft, you can see Mt Bandarpoonch and Black Peak towering at 21,000ft, as well as, Mt Srikanth, Draupadi ka Danda, and Mt Jaunli. It’s a sight to behold.

Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek, Uttarakhand

Yash Trivedi/Indiahikes

Duration: 6 days; Level: Moderate; Highest point: 3,562m; Starting point: Lohajung (10-hour drive from Rishikesh)

With camping banned in Uttarakhand’s high-altitude meadows, the famous Roopkund trek is out of bounds. The Bedni Bugyal is a great alternative route. Come to see Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti and stay for the beautiful sunsets on this trek. To reach the highest point at 3,562m, you will pass through dense oak and rhododendron forests. Yet the trail is perfect for beginners, with just a few tricky and challenging sections. The trek is open all year round (besides the monsoon months from June to September), but the winters bring a different kind of beauty to the region.

Brahmatal Trek, Uttarakhand

Sudhir Varni/Indiahikes

Duration: 4-6 days; Level: Moderate; Highest point: 3,733m; Starting point: Lohajung (10-hour drive from Rishikesh)

You can trek here all year round, but come winter (December to March), the Brahmatal trek leads you to a frozen alpine lake—and you won’t just spend a few hours there. If the weather holds up and there isn’t heavy snow, you can also camp by the lake. A cup of tea in hand, admire the beauty of the frozen ice mirroring the majestic Mt Trishul and Mt Nandaghunti. As you descend, there’s also lake Bekaltal which is worth a visit and usually freezes over in winter too. Each campsite on this trek offers unique views of forests and lakes. The best part is you don’t have to work too hard to soak in these views. The trek offers a ridge that you can walk along to reach the summit.

Kedarkantha Trek, Uttarakhand

Gourab Nandi/Indiahikes

Duration: 6 days; Level: easy-moderate; Highest point: 3,810m; Starting point: Gaichawan Gaon (10 hours from Dehradun)

The Kedarkantha is a six-day trek in Uttarakhand’s Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. Since Kedarkantha is a standalone mountain, there are several routes to reach the summit, each unique in its own way. You can choose the popular route or the quieter trail. The trek is accessible year-round, but if you’re up for a challenge go in the winter months of December and January. The climb is arduous and steep in the cold, but equally rewarding. The summit is visible right from the base camp and as you climb higher through snow-covered grasslands and forests, the Himalayas come into sight. Along with some of the most dramatic sunsets, the trek also gives you a taste of the local culture and food, as you will spend your first and last night at homestays in Gaichwangaon.

Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek, Uttarakhand

Photo: Avijit Jamloki/Indiahikes

Duration: 3-6 days; Level: easy-moderate; Highest point: 3,675m; Starting point: Sari (7-8 hours from Rishikesh)

The Chandrashila Summit affords some of the most beautiful views of the Himalayas. On the left are the Gangotri range of peaks, Mt Thalaysagar, the Kedarnath and the Kedar dome, Mandani Parbat and Janhukut. On the right are the Gauri Parbat, Hathi Parbat and Dunagiri, and right in front is Nanda Devi. Every season brings a different flavour to this landscape. But the winters here are spell-binding. Even in December, you’ll get to see rhododendron trees blushing with blooms. The trek is also a delight for birdwatchers. If you get lucky, you may spot the beautiful Himalayan monal. At Baniya Kund, you may also get the chance to camp on snow-covered expanses.

Sandakphu Phalut, West Bengal

Photo: Subro Das/Indiahikes

Duration: 6-9 days; Level: Moderate; Highest point: 3,642; Starting point: Shrikhola

This trek takes you to Singali Ridge, the border that separates India from Nepal. It offers views of some of the most famous peaks that tower above 8,000 metres, including Mt Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu. Besides the Kanchenjunga, you can also get a view of peaks famously called The Sleeping Buddha, due to its shape. While the Everest cluster is only visible on day four of the trek, The Sleeping Buddha peaks are visible right from day one. So, you’re promised gorgeous views from start to finish. The trek is open for eight months of the year, barring May to August, but trust us—you’ll want to see the mighty peaks blanketed in snow.

Book these winter treks via Aquaterra or Indiahikes ; Frozen Himalayas offers the Markha Valley trek in Ladakh.

The Kosha Journal

Travel Talk
Kosha Quotient

12 Amazingly Best Winter Treks in India

Oct 25, 2021

Looking for the best winter treks in India? This travel guide has everything covered for you!

The last couple of years have kept almost all of us ‘locked-down’ in the restricted space of our homes. This seclusion has given us newfound respect and admiration for nature and group outings. Treks are a beautiful amalgamation of both of these.

India is replete with trek destinations whose fame has even reached countries abroad. It might turn confusing or even troublesome to know the best winter treks in India. View this list to see a curated list of highly acclaimed winter treks in India!

12 Best Winter Treks in India

Chadar Winter Trek

Trek # 1 Chadar Trek

Difficulty: Moderate to Extreme

Time Required: 9 to 10 days

Area: Zaskar, Ladakh.

Closest City/Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh.

Chadar Trek, also known as the ‘Frozen River Trek’ in Zanskar Range is the most highly applauded winter trek in the country. As the name rightly suggests, it is a winter trail in Ladakh that is carried over the frozen river of Zanskar. Leh is the nearest airport for this trek and the airport in Delhi is the nearest international airport.

Initially, the pathway of this trail could only be travelled by hikes or on foot. Now, the times have changed yet this region remains to be known as a trekking destination.

The overall distance covered by this trail is approximately 105 km (65 miles). This has made it a difficult level trek. However, some suggest that it is not as tough as it used to be. With proper initial training and stamina building, a beginner could prepare their body for the same.

The best time for this trek is from January to February. The temperature range during this time reaches as low as -35 degrees Celsius. The starting point of the trek is at Chilling but sometimes the organizers travel a kilometre further from the first camp at Tilad Sumdo. The trek is around 9 to 10 days long depending upon your planning and trekking speed.

Many are of the opinion that this trekking site might cease to exist in the near future. The melting of the glaciers is adding to the uncertain weather conditions making this trek a health risk. That is something for the coming decade or later. It is now upon you to make the most of this information and plan a safe and researched trip to Chadar this winter!

Trek # 2 Kedarnath Trek

Kedarnath Winter Trek

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Time Required: 6-7 days

Area: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand.

Closest City/Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun.

Kedarnath in Uttarakhand is a renowned destination for religious visits as well as for adventure purposes. The trek is famous in the country as well as all across the world. It is one of the most well-known Hindu shrines in India. The Kedarnath temple was the creation of Pandavas after the war of Mahabharata .

It is a 16 Kilometres long trek that begins at Gaurikund and ends at Kedarnath. Just like the Chadar trek, it is pertinent that you have come with a doctor’s consultation stating that you are fit to carry on with the trek. The best time for this trek would be from September to October and then again from May to June.

As this is a trek widely used by pilgrims, you may find yourselves surrounded by a religious atmosphere. Relish it and make the most out of the natural landscapes that will come your way during the hike.

Economic Times considers the Kedarnath trek amongst the world’s 6 most difficult treks but its scaling level remains to be easy to moderate.

If you are one of the adventure junkies on the trek, make sure that you keep aside a day or two for making the most of the things this place has to offer. Rishikesh river has India’s most beautiful (and difficult) river rafting. It can be covered when one is visiting Kedarnath. The river rafting is open for tourists from September to mid-November and then again from March to mid-May.

Trek # 3 Brahmatal Trek

Brahmatal Winter Trek

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Time Required: 5-6 days

Area: Kuling, Uttarakhand.

Closest City/Airport: Pantnagar Airport, Uttarakhand.

Brahmatal means a place belonging to Lord Brahma. Looking at this exquisite beauty, you will believe it to be true that it indeed belongs to divinity. This is an easy to moderate level trek and it covers the area of the serene Bekal Tal Lake.

The Brahmatal trek marks its beginning in a small village located in Garhwal Himalayas called Lohajung. From the airport, it makes for a full-day journey of about 8-10 hours.

Lohajung is the base camp for numerous treks, Brahmatal being one of them. This trek is open to tourists most months of the year. However, it is advisable that you don’t embark upon the trek during summertime or in monsoons.

Winter is when this trek is enjoyed at its best. Himalaya has most of its mountains shut for tourists and trekkers during peak winters due to health hazards. But this trek is kept open as it is not a very difficult climb. The majority of this trek takes place under forest area, therefore, making it fit for the newbies and beginners.

The lowest temperature recorded is about -9 degrees celsius at night. During the daytime, the temperature is at a pleasant range of 8 – 10 degrees Celsius. If you are new to the world of trekking or hiking, this would be the best trek to try!

It has a great view of a water body which is Beka Tal Lake, of greenery as most of the trek is carried under a forest cover. In addition to that, the trek being an easy scale is indeed the best of both worlds scenario! December to February would be the ideal time to visit Brahmatal.

Vivek Tomar, a trekking enthusiast explains the USP of Brahmatal and tells us why this trek is his favourite trek so far-

“ First would be the change in terrain that you witness. The trek starts from a dusty, rocky trail on day one and you find yourself in greenery and snow at the end of the day. On the second day too, you trek in a good amount of snow and greenery. These transitions and changing terrains are the most beautiful things for anyone.

The second would be the campsite. Brahmatal has one of the most beautiful campsites with the most mesmerizing views. Especially the second or third day with the campsite at the Bekal tal lake.

On the final day of the summit, you go to Brahmatal and all the mountains are snow-covered. At the summit point, you get to see the other legendary peaks. These magnificent peaks are enough to make any trekker starstruck. I haven’t witnessed such high peaks in such proximity during treks .”

On what sets this trek apart he says –

“This trek is quite approachable and it is a must-do trek. It is not as difficult either. These things make this trek stand apart.”

Talking about the USP, treks with such a picturesque trail and abundance of natural beauty are difficult to climb. As Brahmatal is an easy-moderate climb, it should be made the most of!

Trek # 4 Nag Tibba Trek

Nag Tibba Winter Trek

Difficulty: Easy

Time Required: 2 days

Area: Dehradun, Uttarakhand.

Similar to the Brahmatal trek, the Nag tibba trek also has its base in Garhwal Himalayas. This trek’s maximum altitude comes to around 10,000 Kms making it an easy climb for beginners as well as children.

The start of the trek is in a small hamlet called Pantwari in Mussoorie, Dehradun. As this is a trek reserved especially for winters, you will be stoked to find snow during your trial.

The trek extends to the Nag Tibba base which is marked by a temple dedicated to the Serpent god. The itinerary of the trip includes trekking and mountaineering so make sure you and your company enjoy both of these activities for a wonderful experience.

The end of this mini trek gets you to the Naga temple. From here you can see a beautiful view of the entire Bandarpunch ranges of the Himalayas. As this peak is easily accessible and suits to beginner level, it is very popular among tourists who frequently visit the same mostly during weekends.

This trek can be experienced in summer from April to June. The second period when it can be visited is from January to March. For the lovers of winter and snow, choose the latter and turn this into a winter trek that you’ll remember for ages.

Currently, it seems like suddenly everyone around me is into trekking. For those new to this, the Nag Tibba trek has the potential of being the introductory trail that lets you decide whether you like the activity or not. Spread across 2 to 3 days with only 16 km to cover, it is a perfect place to start.

Trek # 5 Kuari Pass Trek

Kuari Pass Winter Trek

Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

Time Required: 5- 6 days

Area: Garhwhal, Uttarakhand.

Closest City/Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun.

Kuari Pass Trek is another trek that marks its roots in the village of Garhwal, on the south of the Tibetan border. It is rumoured to be explored by Lord Curzon which is why it is also known as the ‘Curzon trail’.

If you are a beginner at trekking and wish to enter headfirst into this world, this trek is it! It is the one trek that can push you enough without causing you any harm and give you the best trekking experience. It is the perfect challenge for the newbies as it is a moderate to difficult level trek.

This trek marks its beginning at Joshimath. Many trekkers look forward to this particular winter trek as it is a combination of nature’s different aspects. The trail covers an alpine forest, lush green Himalayan meadow, icy peaks and tips of mountains and even a colourful hamlet during its course all under the blanket of a celestial blue sky!

During this trek, get a chance to see the peaks of Neelkanth, Mana, Kamet, Ghodi, Trishul, Chaukhamba etc, Tali Lake, Verdant forest and more!

During summer the temperature range is 19 degrees Celsius to 29 degrees Celsius. Compared to this, the winters are pleasant with a temperature range of 12 degrees Celsius to -8 degrees Celsius. Mid-September to November beginning is considered to be the best time for this trek.

Trekkers consider this trek to be an adventure through and through as it is replete with every kind of adventure. At times, people have witnessed leopard footprints, bear footprints while on the walk. This trek is not considered to be that difficult. However, it wouldn’t be recommended to the faint-hearted. For those waiting for that zest in your life, go for it!

Trek # 6 Dayara Bugyal Trek

Dayara Bugyal Winter Trek

Difficulty: Easy

Time Required: 4-5 days

Area: Taknaur Range, Uttarakhand.

This particular trek is one of the shorter treks of the Himalayas. It is appropriate for beginners as no prior trekking experience is needed because it is an easy level trek.

Trekkers start their trail in Barsu village from where the trail descends to Raithal then concluding the trek at Dayara Bugyal. The altitude found during this trek is about 3050 km thus making it an easy hike. This particular trek is famous for its scenic meadows and gorgeous valleys.

Being a trekking destination that is 3000 km elevated, the place is usually snow-laden. This is why there are no lodging areas like hotels or guesthouses found at the top. For sleeping purposes, people are encouraged to carry their tents and sleeping bags.

As this is a comparatively easy trek, hikers can manage to carry the weight of the tents and sleeping bags.

The words Dayara Bugyal mean high altitude meadows thus indicating the rich pastoral life found in this region. There is an abundance of cattle producing lots of fresh milk and this is why the area celebrates an annual Butter festival.

The intention of having this festival every year is to show gratitude towards this high-fertility land and for thanking the gods for keeping the cattle safe. This festival also witnesses a butter holi. This one-of-a-kind festival is seen from 16th to 18th August each year.

The best time to visit this place is from May to November. Most prefer visiting the trek during winter months when the weather conditions are pleasant with a temperature range that extends from 6 degrees Celsius to 22 degrees Celsius.

Trek # 7 Rupin Pass Trek

Rupin Pass Winter Trek

Difficulty: Difficult

Area: Sangla, Himachal Pradesh.

Rupin Pass trek is one of the treks renowned for its difficulty. This Himalayan trek is as beautiful as it is difficult. The destination is thus the incentive for all the trekkers to cover the journey. This trail takes 6-7 days for competition.

Dehradun is the nearest railway station for this trek and Jolly Grant Airport is the closest domestic airport. A small village named Jiskun marks the starting point of the trek in Uttarakhand. The end of the trek is at Sangla in Himachal Pradesh.

The numerous reviews on trekking websites have made it clear that this trek is definitely worth all the hype. Being a difficult climb, it is replete with scenic views.

The first half an hour into the trip gets you to the gorgeous Rupin River. There are different landscapes like colourful hamlets, lush meadows, snow-clad bridges, icy valleys and so many graceful waterfalls! Every step into the trek gets you to face a different scenery.

As this is a difficult trek, it would not be advisable for first-timers. A physical examination prior to the trek is also recommended. The best time to visit this place is in summer from May to June and then post-monsoons from September to October.

Many recommend for people to go for this trek during the latter period when the climate and weather conditions being pleasant and wintry, add to the experience. This period is famous for its gorgeously coloured morning skies, astounding mountain ranges having the perfect combination of green and white due to the lush greenery and the icy snow, clear, starry nights and serene clue rivers and lakes. This place is truly a photographer’s delight.

Trek # 8 Snow Leopard Trek

Leh Winter Trek

Difficulty: Moderate

Area: Hemis National Park, Leh.

Closest City/Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport.

Snow Leopard trek is one of the most sought-after treks of India. Amid the snow-laden peaks of Ladakh and inside the Hemis National Park is where you get to see the maximum concentration of snow leopards.

This surreal place is a spectacular area for staying close to nature and being surrounded by actual wildlife. This one-of-a-kind trek is a great opportunity for all nature lovers to combine the activity of trekking and wildlife viewing. Apart from the snow leopards, one can also find rare species of Blue Sheep, Ibex, Tibetan Hare, Golden Eagle, Wild Horse, Yaks, Red Billed Chuff etc.

The best time to visit this place would be from December to March as that is the time you find these high-altitude beasts the most. It is an easy to moderate level trek if one considers only the altitude aspects.

The area of snow leopards in Hemis national Park spreads for about 600 sq km and is mostly in the valley region of Rumbak and Markha. Situated in the eastern part of Ladakh, this trail is truly one of the most desired ones.

Apart from the snow leopards, one can see the scenic beauty of the majestic Himalayas, explore the diversely rich flora and fauna of the place, make the most of the highly-acclaimed cuisine and hospitality of Ladakhis.

Ladakh also has architecturally rich places of worship, mostly Buddhist monasteries which are enough to wow you.

As this trek is a culmination of wildlife, places of religious and historical importance, with a very rich cuisine, it makes for a great trekking destination.

Make sure you visit this place in winter when there is a higher chance of spotting snow leopards. The temperatures can be a factor that needs to be considered as the lowest recorded temperature is around – 25 degrees Celsius and the approximate temperature range is 6 degrees Celsius to – 25 degrees Celsius.

Trek # 9 Kedarkantha Trek

Kedarnkantha Winter Trek

Time Required: 5- 6 days.

Area: Sankri, Uttarakhand.

Uttarakhand’s Govind Pashu Vihar National Park is where the Kedarkantha trek takes place. It is a trek that is equally favoured by beginners and pros of the trekking community.

The climb is not the easy part of this hike. The mountain that is to be scaled is extremely steep and during the first 3 days of the six-day trek, you tend to climb around 6000 ft in altitude.

Kedarkantha is a stand-alone mountain due to which there are multiple ways to reach the peak. If you are a beginner, you can choose a way that is the easiest to scale with not very steep slopes.

If you are someone who has been trekking for a long time and is looking for a challenge, choose a steep part to scale the mountain and make sure you start the trek in the core winter season when the place witnesses its freshest snow.

For a trek that starts with pleasantly cool mornings and ends with freezing chilly cold, make a winter trip out of Kedarkantha.

This place sees maximum cold from the end of December to mid-February. The temperature recorded covers a huge bracket. It can be anything from 10 degrees Celsius to temperatures lower than -5 degrees Celsius. One reason to avoid core winter months would be that snowfall tends to cause a blockage in the area which may lead to a delay or postponing of the plan.

Terrain wise the place is marked to be extremely safe however the right amount of winter and hiking gear should be carried. This trek is a sight to marvel at even before it starts. The path that takes you to Sankri is breathtaking. It is covered with pine forests, and one can truly appreciate the beauty of nature by looking at pine, deodar and oak trees during the trip. Kedarkantha is also renowned for its dramatic sunsets that paint the skies in the most beautiful colours.

This place is inaccessible only in July and August however, to make the most out of what this area has to offer, go for a winter trek.

Saini Krishnamurthy, an education consultant, has completed her basic mountaineering course from HMI. She dreams of living in Sankri. Look at what she had to say-

“Located at 6400 feet, Sankri marks the end of the road head. The beauty of the forests and nature lies beyond. Saini and her friends stayed in a local homestay for the night. The hospitality and warmth of the mountain folks are legendary. Although they stay in villages, their lifestyles are way ahead of folks dwelling in the cities.

Self-sufficiency is at the very core of their way of life. They grow food in their fields, rear cows and sheep, make their own shawls and more. The man of the house reminisced memories of constructing the wooden house with his own hands.

Plastered with a mixture of cow dung and mud, these homes are temperature regulating. There is a science behind building their homes over 2 levels. The ground floor is used for housing their cows, stacks of hay and firewood. The heat generated passes on to the top floor where they have the family stays.”

Saini remembers the dinner served with fresh ghee made on the same day.

Tahseen, a trekker since 2009 has done her basic and advanced mountaineering course. She is an outdoor instructor who considers the mountains to be her first love. She describes Kedarkantha as follows-

“ The trail from Sankri starts with forests of Pine, Oak and Bamboo trees. The Pine trees are covered with snow. We tapped the trees with our trekking poles and there were showers of snow like we see in the movies. The beauty of a slow-motion shot seen in person” shares Tahseen . One of the best parts about the Kedarkantha trek is the massive clearings, also called bugyal or small meadows. During winter, they get covered in snow, painting a canvas of picturesque snowscapes.”

Trek # 10 Friendship Trek

Friendship Winter Trek

Area: Manali, Himachal Pradesh.

Closest City/Airport: Kullu Manali Airport, Bhuntar.

Pankaj Chipu, an avid mountaineer, shares his favourite winter trek with us.

“It is a moderate level trek in Manali that has its start in Solang Nallah valley. Walking through the lush mountains of Manali, get a chance to make the most of its beauty in this 5-6 day trek.

Bhuntar airport is the closest airport to this trek. It is a 24 km trek that is recommended to be done in the period between September end to October beginning. The lowest temperature recorded is around -10 degrees Celsius”

The best summertime for visiting is in April and May and the best time in winter as mentioned is from October to early December.

While talking about the usp of this trek look at what he had to say-

“The trek gives you an experience of a 5000m+ peak, as you pass through the lush green valley and thick forest and set up your camp at lady leg, after which you set up your summit camp at around 3500m going forward for the summit you experience a drop in temperature and gain in elevation while trekking on snow.”

When asked about what makes this your favourite trek he said-

“Being a moderate trek it gives you a whole lot of experience on how to do other high altitude treks, it also prepares you to use a vivid type of equipment.”

Trek # 11 Hampta Pass trek

Hampta Pass Winter Trek

Time Required: 2-3 days

Area: Kullu, Himachal Pradesh.

Sangke Konyak described his experience-

“Hampta Pass Trek is a trek of moderate level scaling located in Himachal Pradesh. It consists of a corridor that starts from Chandra valley in Lahaul to Kullu valley in Himachal. A drive to Jobra in Manali marks the starting point of this trek. It is a mini 2-3 day trail that is best done from June to October. The lowest temperature recorded during this time is – 15 degrees Celsius.”

This trek marks its beginning in the Prini village of Hampta Pass range. During this trek, you will find yourself in changing landscapes. From the greens of Kullu to the aridness of Spiti. There are around two water crossings during the course and most of the trek is done next to flowing waters thus catering to your auditory senses. Don’t forget to carry the necessary rainwear!

Trek # 12 Sethan dome trek

Sethan Dome Winter Trek

Area: Hamta village, Himachal Pradesh.

This trek is also known as the Hamta snow trek. It is an easy to moderate level trek which is why it would be a great option for beginners. India’s very first igloo hotels are located here in the village of Sethan in Manali.

Sethan trek has lush green mountains, Jobri waterfalls, valleys, rocks and boulders. There is also an option of a zip line near Hampta valley. Other winter activities to be done here can be skiing, rock climbing, snowboarding and more.

Look at what Ravi Thakur, Founder of Himalayan Caravan Adventure had to say about the trek-

“ It is a trek with its starting point in Manali which is a drive with a 4×4 vehicle towards Sethan village. One starts trekking with snowshoes on till whatever point the vehicle reaches, to the mountain hut. After that, explore the beautiful village of Sethan.”

Packing tips for winter trek

When it comes to adventure and sports activities like trekking or hiking, it is important to plan well in advance. However, spur of the moment the decision of trek may be, allot proper time for researching the kind of gear that is required. Look at reviews before making a purchase.

Kosha Winter Layers

The packing of winter apparel and trek equipment may be the most important part of the journey. Hasty decisions which are not thought over enough often tend to make you compromise on the quality of the product.

Lack of research means that you end up buying the first thing you see and therefore you are at a considerable disadvantage in finding something of better quality and cheaper.

While packing for a trek, make sure that the kind of equipment you pack is light and easy to carry. Depending upon the kind of trek you end up choosing, there is a possibility that you will be scaling peaks for days together.

Even with frequent breaks, it becomes a tedious task to walk with the added weight of the equipment. Trekking without luggage drains you out, combine it with a load of a heavy bag and you end up with too much weight on your shoulders (literally).

While looking at the kind of winter clothing you carry, make sure they are compressible as well. Based upon the kind of trek you are embarking upon; it is indeed a difficult decision to understand what to wear during treks.

Treks and hikes in general require a lot of physical activity (mostly scaling). This in turn means that there has to be breathability in the clothing that allows a person to have the free flow of movements.

The activity of climbing steep hills and peaks which generally have narrow pathways is scary enough. Why have the tiny stressor at the back of your mind that says ‘Your winter pants are about to tear?’ I hope this doesn’t happen with any one of us but why even keep a space for the possibility?

Every trip is an investment and it is upon you to choose wisely. Make a conscious and responsible decision while putting in money. Do not hesitate to buy good quality winter clothing because it is costly. Similarly, do not spend exorbitantly just because of the brand name, they may or may not meet your expectations.

When it comes to winter clothing, Layering is something everyone should know of. Layering means knowing and wearing the correct layers of winter clothing by taking into account the outside temperature and your resistance to cold.

The three main layers are base layers, mid-layers and outerwear or shell layers. The winter accessories constitute the fourth layer.

To make the most out of your winter apparel, wear them in layers . The innermost layer is called the base layer. This is generally worn inside your clothes. The base layer , being the layer that is in constant touch with your body, has two key functions. It has to store the body heat and prevent it from escaping.

Best Thermal Wear India

You can check out merino wool thermals for men here .

You can check out merino wool thermals for women here .

It also has to make sure that the chilly winds found outside do not enter the base layers through any openings. Due to this reason, base layers are skin-tight in their fitting (doesn’t mean you go buy one size smaller)

Kosha has a great collection of base layers made from thermal material. Merino wool is one of the finest fabrics out there. These base layers are made from a combination of merino wool and bamboo which makes them super soft giving out a cushiony texture while also having other qualities like being moisture-wicking, odour free, and itch-free for the consumers.

Warm Pullovers & Sweatshirts

You can check out neat sweaters for men here | For women here

You can check out comfy sweatshirts for men here | For women here

You can check out stylish pullovers for men here | For women here

The second is the mid-layers. Mid-layers are worn over your regular clothing. They comprise garments like hoodies, pullovers, sweaters and sweater vests among other things. These mid-layers are an addition to the existing clothing when the temperature dips lower.

Mid-layers can also be worn on their own in situations of our regular life like during office hours, or even house parties. Mid-layers give out a cool and casual vibe and thus can be worn in multiple places making them a versatile choice of winter clothing.

Kosha Winter Jackets

You can check out warm jackets for men here

You can check out warm jackets for women here

Outerwear includes winter jackets, winter coats, parkas etc. These are required in places of extreme cold. Depending on one’s resistance to cold and the place and time of visit, a suitable selection of winter outerwear can be made.

Puffer jackets are a preferred choice as they suit most weather conditions. They have their shortcomings and can be replaced by parkas and faux-fur coats in some cases.

Kosha’s range of puffer jackets, fleece-lined puffer jackets and parkas is something one should look into. The puffer jackets have a wide range of features and are about mid-waist in length.

The parkas are a little lengthier as they reach knee level. Both these winter gears have their strong points and qualities so make sure you note down all the pros and cons and compare the two before deciding.

Last but not the least, winter accessories are a very important part of winter clothing and apparel. It is also known as the fourth layer (informally). One should have their winter accessories in place before planning on an adventure trek.

Animal friendly gloves and woolen cap

Scarves, mufflers, winter gloves, winter socks, beanies, monkey caps, earmuffs etc are all pretty important. The normal narrative of winter apparel may be purely biased towards aesthetic purposes but winter accessories have great importance.

Their key function is to make sure they cover the otherwise exposed area of the body. Scarves cover the neck region, gloves cover the hands, socks cover and protect the feet, beanies and monkey caps shield the head and cover the ears and so on.

You can check out merino wool accessories for men here .

You can check out merino wool accessories for women here .

These areas of the body are mostly left unprotected. Places like the ears and the neck area are great places for the cold air to seep in. This is why these accessories bring a lot of difference when it comes to providing insulation.

Now that you are somewhat aware of layering (hopefully), make sure you plan your winter clothes accordingly. Take into account the place and time of the visit and then go forward with the packing process.

Difficult treks that last for more than 6-7 days need you to carry light winter gear. Some treks do not have lodging facilities and need you to carry your tents and sleeping bags. In such cases, the load increases even further. Plan religiously and begin with the packing only after you thoroughly understand these factors.

The research process always comes first. Only after proper planning and purchasing of necessary garments can you then move on to looking at lodging facilities, tour packages and other important tasks.

If one comes to the specifics of what is to be carried to a trek then the following should be noted. Rainwear is crucial in the case of particular treks. If it is too much load, you can always carry a waterproof winter jacket and waterproof winter pants.

Shoes that provide enough support are also necessary. Breathable and waterproof shoes should be invested in. Try and prepare your feet, get used to the shoes in advance. When you go for a jog, a run, or any kind of walking to prepare for the trek, wear these shoes and try them out, get comfortable and break into the shoes to avoid any chances of blisters or shoe bites.

A good quality backpack is also something essential. Make sure that the bag you choose distributes the weight equally and does not put additional weight on your shoulders. Purchasing a backpack that is of the shape of your body will help in this matter. Having a rain cover for the backpack is also an added benefit.

Carry the necessary winter layers that are mentioned before. Also, pack the kind of nightwear that suits the kind of weather and climatic conditions you will visit during the trek.

Don’t forget equipment like mosquito repellants, moisturizing creams, band-aids etc.

After reading all of this, planning a trek can seem to be a daunting, overwhelming task. Worry not, we are here to answer all your queries!

Safety tips for winter trek

Trekking can be one of the most difficult things one does in their lifetime. If done properly, they can also be the most rewarding things you do.

Planning, researching and decision making are all tested during this activity. Trekking plans start when one out of a group of friends is struck by immense boredom and decides to get the rest of the gang to their boredom level. Then all the enthusiasts begin the planning usually by spamming all text groups.

Some overly excited leaders of the gang take up the initiative and call their friends to help ease the planning process. After days or even weeks of planning, looking at trip planners, deciding upon a place that suits all (most) and looking at everyone’s availability …. a date is fixed.

It is around this time that some members cancel the plan which for some reason is not a surprise to the rest.

After this tiring process is over, the ones still intact and interested in the trek or hike come together and plan a trek. After looking at various tour planners, trekking destinations and travel packages a suitable trek is decided.

After this, the members of the group start their personal planning and research. The various areas to be considered here are winter clothing and accessories, lodging and boarding facilities, modes and ways of travelling, and then the budget and expenses.

After this stage is done and the day of the trek comes near, it dawns upon everyone to mentally and physically prepare themselves for the journey. The adrenaline-inducing thought becomes a reality and every member begins their preparation.

When it comes to trekking, most of the treks require a medical examination done before the trek. This means that the authorities concerned need to know if everyone is physically fit to carry on with this trek.

People with pre-existing illnesses like asthma, diabetes, or anything that requires careful attention and alterations in the travel itinerary are to be considered.

Stamina is a factor that needs to be considered the most while planning a trek.

Most treks have a disclaimer that requires stamina and strength based on the number of Kilometers. For instance, the AB trek requires that the person can easily walk for 5 km in an hour. This information is usually mentioned on the website of trek planning companies. If not, contact the concerned authority.

Worry not, stamina and strength is something that can be increased if necessary efforts are put into it. If it is difficult for you to meet the speed required, it doesn’t mean it has to be that way till the day of the trek.

Go for a morning and evening jog, spend more than the normal amount of time on the treadmill, add some Surya namaskars to your existing routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

The common question of the preparation is answered below –

Best Winter Treks in India

What fitness preparation should I do before the trek?

Walk daily! And make sure you cover at least 4-5 kilometres every day. Try to cover this distance in a period of 45 minutes to one hour and you’re good to go. Go for a run, jog, brisk walk and get that stamina improved.

Pranayama or other breathing exercises will also help a long way in developing the kind of thick skin that is needed. An insider trick that I know of is that yogasanas often make people used to low oxygen levels.

Pranayamas show you how to use your lung capacity to its fullest. Thus, they teach you how to breathe in places with low oxygen levels. While going to high altitude regions, this is a sure-shot technique that will come to use. This trick will also help you battle altitude sickness.

Another trick to be kept up your sleeve is stretching! Stretching at the end of the day after every trek reduces your chances of injury and even fatigue.

This will not only give you physical strength, but it will also give you mental strength in the form of confidence. And forget not, trek or no trek, exercising is always a good thing!

What winter clothing to buy?

When it comes to buying winter clothing, make sure you don’t compromise on the quality of winter apparel. The items you don and carry need to be reliable. One more important winter clothing is winter shoes.The importance of having good quality shoes cannot be stressed enough.

Trekking means that all or at least most of the work is done by your feet. In such circumstances, the only thing protecting your feet should also be reliable. Proper socks that are compatible with your shoes are also a necessary safety precaution.

You can check out winter socks for men here

You can check out winter socks for women here

In addition to this, look into the geography of the place. Be informed of all the natural conditions that the region tends to see. In the case of winter treks, the snow factor should also be considered.

Heavy snowfall can lead to landslides and unfavourable conditions. These often postpone the trek but none of it is certain. These can also occur during the trek for which one must be prepared. Carry the proper first aid and the proper winter gear that will help you through this. The guide or the planners may have these materials handy but it is never wrong to be prepared.

Untimely rains are also something that the world has been seeing more of these days due to climate change. It is upon us to pack taking into consideration the possibility of rains or even storms in extreme cases.

Carrying waterproof winter apparel would be the best solution for this issue as it would solve the problem of carrying extra weight while making sure you are saved from the rains.

What are some of the planning tips for a winter trek?

Only by preparing for the worst can you have a stress-free trek experience.

Planning a trek to its fruition can be a handful indeed. One has thousands of things to keep in mind. This is why looking at numerous other things is also important. Looking at different trek planners is essential.

For this look for reviews and Instagram pages with online websites and journals. Look at the lodging facilities and the kind of food served. Also, take someone approachable to be your trek planner as you might need to reach out to them plenty of times prior to or during the trip.

Also, take into account that trekking is a group experience, so make sure you have a group ready when you embark upon this journey.

Even if you are a solo traveller, fret not. You will most definitely find a great group of individuals with whom you then can stay in touch.

The treks mentioned in this list are only the tip of the iceberg. There are so many different kinds of treks that one can experience. A few of the famous ones are Prashar Lake trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Kareri Lake trek, Bhrigu Lake trek, Dun winter trek, snow trek and the most famous of them all the Everest trek.

Everest being something that is written a lot about, is not mentioned in this blog. It needs a blog of its own. Many set out to make this dream come true and spend years planning it out. If you’re one of the Everest aspirants, start small.

Plan step by step. It is okay if you manage to reach just the Everest base camp during your first attempts. Put time and effort into the kind of research such serious journeys need. Even while looking at trek reviews, it is evident that attention to winter clothing is very essential.

Check out Kosha’s store in Khar (west) Mumbai to check out Kosha’s winter collection yourself. If you find yourself confused or in a conflict when it comes to winter clothing, drop by Kosha’s store in Khar and get yourself a free consultation!

You can also visit Kosha’s website here and look at all the winter apparel and accessories yourselves.

Happy trekking!

This blog article is written by Kosha Team Member – Sanika Totade.

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Best Winter Treks In India

Kedarkantha Peak Trek

Brahmatal trek, dayara bugyal trek, sandakphu trek, chopta chandrashila trek, winter kuari pass trek, chadar frozen river trek.

Winter has always been a sign of epic adventure, the snow-clad mountains are a great way to test your endurance and to boost our spirits. The cold walks starting in October stretch up to the summer in March. It is also the best time to witness snow and enjoy the moments like we see in the cinemas. It can be a thrilling and daunting task at the same time to witness snow and also trying to walk on snow. But guess what? We’ve got you covered! Head-out on this link for a quick guide to layer on for your winter trek and walk on the snowy trails.

We also have a list of treks you could enjoy during Christmas - 5 Best treks for a snowy Winter .

The king of winter trek , the most popular winter trek so far. The frozen Juda Ka Talab camping is the most sought-after campsite, literally coming from a dream. Every year this trek gets booked 1-2 years in advance. For all of you who had planned Kedarkantha this winter, there is still hope. We are sure as soon as we announce its opening the batches are going to get full in no time. So, don’t waste any time wondering, register for Kedarkantha soon!

If it’s about frozen lakes then Brahmatal can never be missed. Spanning 6 days with just 22 km of hiking you can imagine the luxury of witnessing the pristine snow land for less effort. With peaks as high as 7000 metres waiting for you to take pictures, the Brahmatal trek definitely must not be missed this year. So, register now!

NOTE- This video is documented in the monsoon season but in the winter season all the slopes and forest areas are covered with plenty of snow.

The all-rounder trek will soon be a winner of the “best trek” of every season. Imagine the lush meadows that touch the far-end mountains covered with white snow sparkling under the light of fluorescent sunrays. If you have been to Dayara in another season – winter is a must. Only to experience the thrill of being in the unknown of the known place. This kids and family-friendly trek is worth a try this winter after the longest home-alone experience. So, register for the Dayara Bugyal Trek winter ride now!

The only flag bearer of West Bengal but that shows the highest peaks in the world. So what if you cannot trek to Everest in winter, watch its glory from the Sandakphu trek . In Corona where everybody is talking about noticing the Himalayas from their homes in Punjab and West Bengal, imagine the views of Sleeping Buddha (Kanchenjunga range) from a closer stand. Don’t miss out on the chance of standing face to face in front of the biggest Nepal and Indian Himalayas.

NOTE- This video is documented in the monsoon season but in the winter season all the slopes and forest area are covered with plenty of snow.

Yet another all-rounder trek that is a great start for beginners in all seasons. Having a spiritual significance the trek is already a famous pilgrimage spot. The appealing Chaukhamba reflection in Deoria Tal lake is what attracts most hikers. Additionally, there is the adventure of trudging through hard snow up to the Chandrashila top. It is like the perfect tower to capture panoramas of distant pinnacles. Being closed for so long for the first time, the Chopta Chandrashila trek is fresh and intricate as a new blossom. Come and be the first one to watch Chopta trek grow into a flower.

The experience of walking to the apex is life-altering. Walking through glaciers, tiny frozen streams and knee-deep powdered snow, the trek means uniqueness. The kuari meadows are surely nerve-wracking but it challenges you more than anything. Those monotonous home-workout routines in the lockdown are asking for a payout. Kuari pass Trek top is what the hard work deserves.

This trek needs no introduction. After frozen lakes, come the frozen river and waterfall. Amidst the news of Chadar being closed forever and the pandemic lockdown, Chadar comes with a fresh start. The freezing -30 degrees of Zanskar range is calling you out to come out of the enclosed walls of your house. It is now time to walk over the frozen Zanskar.

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7 Upcoming Winter Treks In India If You Love Chasing Snow And Sun Burn

What's so special about winter treks in India, you ask.

The vast expanse of white cover with two feet high snow cover touching your knees and marking your footsteps over the incredible nothingness; these are impressions forever etched in the memory if you've trekked on a snow-clad peak.

But if you're a first-timer, the incredible winters in India might just become the reason to plan your first trek, or may I say, YOUR FIRST SNOW TREK.

Here's everything you need to know about the upcoming winter treks in India and this is just the right time to plan it all.

Photo of 7 Upcoming Winter Treks In India If You Love Chasing Snow And Sun Burn 1/15 by Disha Kapkoti

1. Explore the virgin peak at Kuari Pass

Trek start point : Auli

Number of days : 6 days

Why this trek : The Kuari Pass trek is located in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and the magical route takes you through the scenic views of the bugyals (meadows) of Garhwal and is one of the most popular winter treks in India. Gorson, Chitrakantha and Khullara are some of the stunning campsites on this trek, which prove to be the main attractions of the trek. Watch this video to know how Kuari Pass got its name.

Fitness : Although Kuari Pass is termed as a moderate 6-day trek, but the constant ascent on the route raises the difficulty level. The steep ascent each day is even more challenging when the temperature falls below zero at night. Trekkers are advised to climb the stairs and jog for about 5km every day for a month to prepare for this trek.

Plan your trek here.

Photo of 7 Upcoming Winter Treks In India If You Love Chasing Snow And Sun Burn 2/15 by Disha Kapkoti

2. Trek to the Valley of Gods at Har Ki Dun

Trek start point : Sankri

Number of days : 8 days

Why this trek : The Har Ki Dun trail offers a revision to Indian mythology, taking trekkers along the route chosen by the Pandavas while ascending to heaven. Trekkers are led along the Supin River to Har Ki Dun valley crossing some of the ancient Himalayan villages that have been inhabited for more that 3,000 years. The stunning views of Swargarohini – I, II, III, Bandarpoonch, Blackpeak and Ruinsara peaks add to the charm of this trail.

Fitness : It's a fairly easy to moderate trek with gradual inclines, but the trek still demands you to walk 9-10 km every day on the trail.

Photo of 7 Upcoming Winter Treks In India If You Love Chasing Snow And Sun Burn 4/15 by Disha Kapkoti

3. Experience the holy grail of Indian trekking with the Sandakphu – Phalut Trek

Trek start point : Jaubari

Number of days : 7 days

Why this trek : The Sandakphu Phalut trail takes you along a scenic route that goes in and out of India and Nepal. Renowned Himalayan peaks of Makalu, Everest and Lhotse can be spotted at a distance. The overwhelming presence of Kanchenjunga in the distance completes the view of the Sleeping Buddha on a horizon.

Fitness : It's a moderately difficult trek and the key to walking the Sandakphu Phalut trail is to cover long distances each day. On this 7-day long trek, more than 10 kms are covered everyday and on the day 5 trekkers cover 21 kms.

Photo of 7 Upcoming Winter Treks In India If You Love Chasing Snow And Sun Burn 6/15 by Disha Kapkoti

4. Get the best of this year's winters on the Brahmatal Trek

Trek start point : Lohajung

Why this trek : Brahmatal holds a special place on this list since it's one of the few accessible winter treks in India during peak winters of January and February. During April and March, scarlet and pink rhododendrons bloom along the trail. At the Brahmatal summit, trekkers get the closest view of the majestic Mt Thrishul and Nanda Ghunti.

Fitness : It's a moderate level trek that has also been many first-timer's first trek experience.

Photo of 7 Upcoming Winter Treks In India If You Love Chasing Snow And Sun Burn 8/15 by Disha Kapkoti

5. Trek to the Garhwal Himalayan Mountains on the Kedarkantha Trail

Why this trek : If you're intrigued by the the idea of snow trekking, Kedarkantha is a safe bet. The trail that starts from Sankri is usually covered with fresh winter snow from December to April and can fit into even a serious procrastinator's plans. You ascend almost 2000 ft each day and the stunning campsites on the route, such as Juda Ka Talab, add to the charm of being on this trail.

Fitness : The trek starts at an altitude of 6000ft and you constantly ascend on the next few days of the trek. It's a challenge to your core body strength.

Read more: How to get fit for Kedarkantha Trek.

Photo of 7 Upcoming Winter Treks In India If You Love Chasing Snow And Sun Burn 10/15 by Disha Kapkoti

6. Go for your first trek at Nag Tibba

Trek start point : Pantwari Village

Why this trek : The Nag Tibba Trek can be a perfect trek for a first timer. The trail gives you an opportunity to reach the highest peak (9915 ft) in the Nag Tibba Range. The stunning views of Bandarpooch Peak, Gangotri Peaks, Kedarnath Peak, Doon Valley and Chanabang from the peak inspires every trekker to start their love affair with the mountains.

Number of days : This 2-day trek can be every rookie's introduction to steep or gradual inclines on the hills. Snow can make the trail even more challenging during January and February.

Fitness required : Nag Tibba is considered an easy to moderate trek and is an ideal first-timer's trek.

Photo of 7 Upcoming Winter Treks In India If You Love Chasing Snow And Sun Burn 12/15 by Disha Kapkoti

7. Trek to the hidden Parashar Lake in Kullu Valley

Trek start point: Baggi Village

Number of days : 2 days

Why this trek : If you've scrolled down so far and you've begun wondering whether hiking is your cup of tea at all, give yourself a chance through the Parashar Lake trek. The lake located in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh is ideal for a family trek too. The short trek gives you a majestic 360 degree view of the Kullu Valley and the Parashar Temple at the hilltop is a unique piece of Himachali architecture.

Fitness required : This fairly easy trek is ideal for a first-timer and family.

Photo of 7 Upcoming Winter Treks In India If You Love Chasing Snow And Sun Burn 14/15 by Disha Kapkoti

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Home » Trek Insights » Best winter treks in India

Best winter treks in India

October 21, 2019 July 21, 2021
Saptarshi Roy
Trek Insights

Which are the best winter treks in India?

Winter treks on the Himalayas means snow treks to most of us. Yet snow is not the only reason that you should consider a winter trek. Usually weather on the Himalayas remain clear and cloud free in winters, unless it is snowing.

Before getting into which are the best winter trek in India, let us know few facts at first. Hopefully this will help you to get a basic understanding of snow conditions in winter treks. Also this be useful just not to follow any X, Y, Z list of best winter treks, blindly!

December to February is the time you look for a winter snow trek. Amount of snow depends primarily on the particular time that you choose. Also it varies to an extent from one trail to other, at any given time.

As the winter progresses, snowing intensifies. Later in winter, more is the snow. At times, probably too much to trek!

So, snow depends from one trail to other?

Yes, it is due to the varying latitude within Himalayas. Higher latitude i.e. northerly areas would normally attract more snow. As a result, you can expect increasing amount of snow moving from Sikkim/Darjeeling to Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir. This is the reason that you normally don’t find winter treks in Himachal (very limited short day hikes within ~ 3000 m/10000 ft) or treks in Kashmir.

Check here for our latest offbeat and new winter trekking routes for 2021-21 winters, if you are typically looking far away from crowd.

Comparison of top 5 winter treks in India:

What are the most visually appealing winter trails in India? In my opinion, this is a perspective driven answer and you may not agree with me. Despite some similarities in the winter treks, each trail is indeed an unique experience. In fact all the trails mentioned below are the top qualifier for the best winter treks in India.

Let us compare the following winter treks with respect to certain attributes and elements that you can decide on your suitable winter trek. Remember that this list is not based on any order of preference. To keep it simple and short we will compare these beautiful and popular trails during winters:

Brahmatal trek :

Departure dates: Every weekend from mid December to mid March. 6 days and 5 nights, Kathgodam to Haridwar.

Rarely you will find a gifted trail with so many surprises, yet accessible in winter. Dense forests in the beginning, suddenly stepping into alpine meadows, stretched with the vista of Garhwal and Kumaon peaks. Two hidden lakes and towering duo – Trishul and Nandaghunti peak as you gain altitude. Although Khamila top above Brahmatal lake is challenging to climb in deep snow but unfurls another stretch of peaks. You can see Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Hathi, Ghoda and several central Garhwal peaks around Badrinath area from the top.

snow-starts-deposited-during-late-december-on-brahmatal-trek

Being in eastern Garhwal and centrally located within Uttarakhand, this trail usually gets late snowfall than its western counterparts. Therefore you can expect snowing and deposited snow from late December. Also the amount of snow is general less than western Garhwal and making it a rather conducive trekking trail in January and February. However there are instances of heavy snowfall by mid December, though not normal.

Sandakphu trek :

Departure dates: Ever weekend in December and some more in January and February. 6 days and 5 nights, NJP to NJP or Bagdogra.

Sandakphu is probably the finest ridge trek in India, bordering Darjeeling in West Bengal, India and Nepal. Eastern Himalayas are known for its prolonged monsoon, and winter is a reliable season for great views of the high mountains. This trek is also unique for to its well recognised Tea House mode, thanks to neighbouring Nepal. Singalila ridge is famous for its absorbing views of surrounding high mountains of Sikkim and Nepal. Kanchenjunga massif, along with other peaks forming Sleeping Buddha is the central highlights of this trail.

fantastic-peaks-views-in-winter-on-sandakphu-trail

This entry in our list is not primarily due to snow. Rather because of fantastic views of Kanchenjunga and occasional fresh snow. As mentioned before, due to its eastern Himalayan location and hence the lower latitude results into less snow than Uttarakhand treks. The chance of snow is more in January or February.

Kedarkantha trek :

Departure dates: Every weekend from beginning of December to end of January. 6 days and 5 nights, Dehradun to Dehradun.

kedarkantha-most-popular-winter-trek-in-india

This relatively soft trail is a short hike to the peak called Kedarkantha only 10 odd Km from Sankri. A perfect winter trek for people who want more from an adventure vacation trip. The trail offers good amount of snow hiking, filled with fun. Sometime trudging and at time glissading on snow.The peak offers a magnificent sunrise with panorama of peaks, some standing pretty close like Swargarohini and Black peak.

kedarkantha-trail-walk-snow-fun-in-winter

In the first place, this trail is in far western Garhwal, bordering Himachal Pradesh. Additionally, Kedarkantha peak is the highest point in the vicinity. Therefore it is safe to assume that this trail will receive earlier snowfall than other trails within Uttarakhand. Generally snowfall starts from the beginning of December and continues till February or even in March. Usually snow conditions are harsh during late winter, i.e. late January to February.

Dayara Bugyal trek :

dayara-bugyal-best-winter-treks-in-india

Dayara Bugyal, an alpine meadow surrounded by dense alpine forest and above Bhagirathi River valley. This trail going up to 12000 ft is near Uttarkashi , western Garhwal region,Uttarakhand. The highest point of the Bugyal offers a magnificent 360 degree panoramic view of mighty snow clad Himalayan peaks like Bandarpoonch, Jaonli, Rudragaira, Srikanth, Gangotri– I, II etc. which is adored by amateur and veteran trekkers alike.

dayara-bugyal-snowing-starts-from-mid-december

This trail normally gets some snow from mid of December. Entire January and February you should get moderate to heavy snow. Snow may remain as late as April, depending on a particular year.

Winter Kuari Pass trek :

Often Kuari Pass is referred to as the most panoramic pass in Garhwal. Peak views are overwhelming throughout the trail and ~ 180° from the pass. The trail is above Joshimath and is in central Garhwal.

winter-kuari-pass-among-best-winter-treks-in-india

Side by side comparison of popular winter treks in India:

Below we will carefully look in to various attributes of these treks and compare side by side.

I am hopeful that you have clearer idea about all popular winter trails in India by now. Now it is up to you to choose one which trek is probably the best for as your next trek. We will definitely help you out with finer details, in case you are still not sure. 😎 .

Additional Notes:

I din’t consider Chadar trek as essentially its a winter only trek (best from mid January to mid February). Moreover we are keen to protect the over commercialised trail and hence don’t operate on this trail, starting from 2016.
From 2016-17 winters, no permit is issued for Har Ki Dun trek during mid December to February. Hence this is out of scope at present for winter treks.
Snow conditions are changing more frequently in recent years. In 2016, first snowfall occurred only in late December, be it Uttarakhand or even Himachal.
There are additional trails, which are stunning, yet offbeat and possible to hike during winters. Notable ones are Dodital trek , Ali & Bedni Bugyal trek , Phoktey Dara trek , Chopta Chandrashila trek , Bajre Dara Trek , Barsey trek . We will discuss and compare these trails separately.

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Dec 28, 2020

Best Winter Treks in India

Updated: Feb 26, 2021

It's not surprising that India has a lot for trekkers and adventure lovers whether it's summer or winter. Trekking is a bit difficult in the winter season and the trekkers face a variety of challenges. The magnificent Himalayan mountain and valley of two beautiful states of the country i.e Uttarakhand and Himachal are very famous among adventurers when it comes to winter trekking.

If you are searching for the best winter treks in India then your search is over here. I'm going to tell you some of the best and famous places for trekking in the winter season in India, but here too trekking is done keeping in mind the weather. It is not that you can easily trek over the hills of the Himalayas during the winter season. During the winter trekking, there are many crystal clear rivers, saugan trees, and beautiful waterfalls, and small villages in between. During this time of the season, all the treks are covered with ice sheets.

Let us know which places you can enjoy trekking during the winter season.

Top 10 Winter Treks in India

1. tungnath and chandrashila trek.

When it comes to trekking in Uttarakhand , no one can miss Tungnath and Deoria Tal Trek . Situated at an altitude of 3680 M, Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple in the world located in Uttarakhand . Tungnath is located on Chandranath Parvat and it is also one of the highest temples of Panch Kedar . With its high altitude and alpine meadows, it is also one of the easiest treks to do. It is located at a distance of 3 KMs from Chopta market (Starting point of the trek).

2. Prashar Lake Trek

Everywhere, we find our heaven somewhere or some other thing. Whether it is your favorite place or any favorite food. Every good thing that touches your mind is heaven for you. Similarly, there will be someplace of your choice in the four directions of India, which is no less than a paradise for you, and the thing about Kashmir is that it is famous because it is the paradise of India.

Let's take you on a walk of one such paradise, which is the biggest mystery and wonder in the lakes. We are talking about Prashar Lake, located near Mandi in Himachal Pradesh . People do not know much about Prashar Lake, so this place is quiet and far away from the crowd of people. Prashar Lake is situated at an altitude of 2730 meters above sea level. The astonishing beauty and peace of the place enhance this place as a small paradise.

3. Brahmatal Trek

Brahmatal is no less than a precious treasure in the Himalayan hills. Brahmatal is very popular among trekkers worldwide. This trek also has a lot of unexplored places to explore, which will make your journey memorable.

Located in the Himalayan hills of Uttarakhand , Brahmatal is covered with ice sheets and trekking is considered quite difficult here.

4. Kedarkantha Trek

Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most loved treks for winter and the best place for trekking in Uttarakhand . If you want to experience snow and want to experience the beauty of the mighty Himalayas, then this trek is for you only. The region gives trekkers a special opportunity to encounter the most remote existence of the towns in the deep winter!

Feel the blessings of Lord Shiva at the height of 3800M. Kedarkantha is in the Sankri Region of Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand . This region comes under Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, and if you are lucky then you may get a chance to encounter the flora and fauna of the Himalayas. The Kedarkantha Trek is a joy for mountain lovers who need to investigate every bit of the landscape.

5. Roopkund Trek

The Mystical Lake " Roopkund Lake " of Uttarakhand is quite different from other trekking destinations. This trek gives a different experience. If you like to face difficulties then this track is for you. This lake is situated in the lap of the snow-clad Mount Trishul mountain. This mountain is 16,499 feet high.

There are human skeletons lying in the middle of the Roopkund Lake , which can be seen clearly when the ice melts. This special thing about this lake attracts tourists towards it. Many oak and rhododendron trees are found along this trek. The path of this trek will pass through mountains, mounds, and dense forests and plains.

6. Kuari Pass

Located in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand , the Kuari Pass is a beautiful and magnificent place. If you are a beginner then Kuari Pass is the right place for you. The trek encompasses many beautiful forests, with oak and rhododendron trees abounding.

Local people come to feed their animals in this area. Here you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Himalayan hills. The peak of Kuari gives the most beautiful view of the region.

7. Hampta Pass

Located in Manali in Himachal Pradesh , Hampta Pass is a dream for every trekker and adventure lover. On this trek, there are green valleys of Kullu which are covered with snow. Looking down from here, there is a spectacular view. The beautiful view of the valley from Hampta Pass will mesmerize you.

After trekking in the Hampta Pass , you can also roam the beautiful plains of Manali. This experience will be memorable for you.

8. Goechala Trek

Goechala is a place rich in flora and wildlife, Goechala of Sikkim is also known as the Gateway to Kanchenjunga National Park. By coming to this place, you will get to know the real meaning of natural beauty.

This track is not just limited to Kanchenjunga but in this, you will also get a chance to see many more mountain peaks. Many varieties of flowers and attractive grounds will also be seen in this place.

9. Har ki Dun

Har Ki Doon is located in Uttarkashi district and is one of the best trekking in Uttarakhand state, is called the land of God. It is situated in the lap of mountains along the rivers Rupin and Supin, tributaries of Yamuna river. It is a very inaccessible region located between the upper Himalayas.

When it comes to trekking, Uttarakhand is the best place for trekking in India. Tourists visiting here can admire the natural beauty here. Har Ki Doon is one such amazing trek that has attracted trekkers across the world for decades.

10. Nag Tibba

Nag Tibba Trek is located near Mussoorie in Uttarakhand . Situated at an altitude of 3,022 feet above sea level, Nag Tibba of Garhwal Himalaya of Uttarakhand . The trekking starts from Panthivari village of Dehradun which is about 6 hours from Dehradun.

The trekking starts from Panthivari village of Dehradun, which is about 6 hours away from Dehradun. During trekking in Nag Dunes, trekkers get closer to nature. After reaching the high peak of Nag Tibba, you can see the Kedarnath peak in the north, the Doon Valley, and the snow-capped mountains.

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Winter Treks in Indian Himalayas

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Himalayan winter treks in India are much more than adventure for adventure enthusiasts, especially trekkers. Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Ladakh, and Uttarakhand are four heavenly states that have been reckoned for quenching the thirst of adventure lovers for several years. However, enthralling in these strenuous treks doesn’t only challenge your physical strength but also allures with their irresistible views and incredible scenic vistas.

Suggested Tour: Family Holiday Packages in Uttarkashi

Collect all the required trekking gear and get ready to climb up the snow-peaked mountains, cliffs, thick dense forests, and colorful meadows. The awe-inspiring sunset and sunrise views and the panoramic landscapes seem pretty soul soothing that you will cherish for the next several years. Trekking in these snow-clad trekking trails of the majestic Himalayas happens to be a dream of almost every adventure seeker.

Passing through the frozen lakes, snow-covered trails, and wintry grasses during the winter months excites you to the utmost level. Fortunately, India is blessed with the impressive Himalayas that offers you ample opportunity to trek. Chadar Trek in Zanskar, Kedarkantha Trek, Friendship Trek, expedition, Dodital trek, and Dayara Bugyal Trek are some of the most exciting and preferred adventure holidays one can plan during the winter months.

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22 Of the Absolute Best Treks in India

A compilation of 22 of the best treks in India as recommended by travel bloggers. Includes treks from all across India in a list that includes something for everyone.

India is home to some of the most epic landscapes on Earth- so it’s certainly not a surprise that the massive country is a trekker’s paradise.

From the famed Himalayas to lush, jungle landscapes of the Northeastern states, the best treks in India vary in temperature, altitude and difficulty.

So what do they all have in common? Incredible views, that’s what! Though I’ve only been to a few trekking places in India thus far, I asked other travel bloggers what they think are the best treks in India.

The compiled list includes famous treks, day treks, winter treks, family-friendly treks and everything in between.

As you plan out your next Indian hiking adventure, keep the following natural wonders in mind. Without further ado, here are 22 of the best treks in India–where you’ll be sure to find something for everyone!

22 Of The Best Treks in India

Gaumukh trek- uttarakhand.

Contributed by Samantha of Intentional Detours

The Gaumukh Trek in Gangotri, Uttarakhand is not just a trek- it’s a pilgrimage. The 42 km round trip trek begins just near the famous Gangotri Mandir and takes trekkers to the very start of the Ganges River: the Gaumukh glacier.

As it can hardly get more spiritual than this, I certainly consider the Gaumukh to be one of the best treks in Uttarakhand. And the best part? It’s easy enough that even beginner trekkers can do it!

Charles and I completed the trek in two days, with one night spent at the Lal Baba Ashram. The ashram is located at the Gaumukh Trek “basecamp” known as Bhojbasa.

A very basic room in the ashram comes with the perk of two free meals, though you can also opt to rest in a tent or in the other accommodation, the GVMN Guesthouse.

After spending the night at the ashram, be prepared to set out EARLY so you’ll have enough time to first reach Gaumukh, and then turn around and make your way back to Gangotri before sunset.

For those not wanting such a rough day two of trekking, you can opt to spend another night at Bhojbasa, or start your journey back to Gangotri but pause for the night at Chirbasa, which is another campsite near the halfway point of the trail back.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to get a permit to embark on the trek, as it is located in a national park. Permits (which last for two days) cost 600 rupees for foreigners and 150 rupees for Indians.

If you choose to stay beyond two days, each extra day is 250 rupees per person regardless of nationality.

Though the trek isn’t difficult, and the path is essentially a straight trail, don’t underestimate altitude! As Gaumukh (and Gangotri town) are over 11,000 feet high, spending a few days in town adjusting to the thin air is a must for a successful trek.

Read Next: Everything you need to know about the Gaumukh Trek

Sinhagad Fort Trek- Maharashtra

Contributed by Tanayesh of Shoestring Travel

Sinhagad nearby Pune is one of the most popular and most visited fort as it is a short trek around Pune. It is 4320 feet above sea level. The Sinhagad Fort trek starts from the base village, it takes around 1 1/2 hours to get to the top. The trekking path is quite easy which makes it one of the best treks in India for amateur trekkers.

On average, it would hardly take 40 mins to reach the top of the fort. The views throughout the trek, as well as once you’re on top, are simply mesmerizing.

The gorgeous green valleys and wisps of clouds floating around are just breathtaking. Take a camera along and capture the beauty or just sit, relax and live the moment amidst nature.

The best time to be here is during the rainy season. Though it gets a bit overcrowded with visitors, eating bhajis [Pakodas] during the rainfall is a heavenly experience.

Apart from the food, nature is at its best when it rains here. The rains make the trekking route slippery, so it is suggested to be extremely cautious while trekking and do not run. Winter season is an equally fun time to embark on this trek.

Pro tip: Another epic trek in Maharashtra that you should definitely check out is the Bhimashankar Trek located in the state’s Western Ghats.

Rupin Pass Trek- Uttarakhand & Himachal Pradesh

Contributed by Umang of TravelMax

Rupin Pass was my first long Himalayan trek. Before the trek, I did a lot of one day or overnight treks. But Rupin Pass introduced me to the thrill of camping for multiple nights in a row.

Rupin Pass is a crossover trek, which essentially means that you cross a pass and don’t come back the same route. Due to this, we got to experience a wide range of myriad landscapes.

The Rupin Pass starts from Dhaula in Uttarakhand and ends at Sangla in Himachal Pradesh. This trek was and is still used by the Shepherds who aim to take their sheep across the state border.

The Rupin Pass was an unforgettable experience for me as it was my first affair with the Himalayas. By the end of this trek, my affair had blossomed into a heart-felt saga of love and ever since, I am hooked on to the enchanting beauty of Himalayas.

The best time to trek the Rupin Pass is between April – June. The winter pass is also possible, but it’s best avoided as the difficulty is 10x due to the multiple layers of snow.

The small villages on the way are livelier during the summer season. I particularly remember a game of volleyball with the locals during this trek.

Ideally, you should do this trek with a trekking group. But for the daredevil, it can be one solo. But be prepared for unmitigated risks as trekking in the Himalayas can be both, beautiful and cruel at the same time.

Tarsar-Marsar Trek- Kashmir

Contributed by Nishu of Tanned Travel Girl

Trekking in Kashmir is not something a normal-hearted person will take up. But I was so determined to see the beautiful alpine lakes in Kashmir with my naked eyes that I mentally and physically prepared myself for this challenge.

For me, the experience was truly magical. The trek was of 6 days and each day we saw camped either near a beautiful river or in the middle of majestic Kashmir Valleys.

The summit was to the Tarsar and Marsar lakes. The beauty of these turquoise blue lakes in between snow-covered mountains cannot be described in words.

We had camped right beside the Tarsar Lake on a clear sky night, where the entire night was passed counting the shooting stars. During the day, we saw these lakes changing colors as the sun rays move! This trek is said to be the most beautiful trek in India .

The trek starts from Aru Valley in Kashmir and passes through Lidderwat, Shekwas, and then to the majestic Tarsar and Marsar lakes.

The trek can only be done in the months of July to September and is of medium difficulty level. However, if it rains, it can turn into a difficult one! But the sheer joy of seeing a rainbow over virgin mountains will be truly priceless.

Kheerganga Trek- Himachal Pradesh

Contributed by Suruchi of AllGudThings

Kheerganga in Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh is located at an altitude 13,050 feet and can be reached via 12 kilometers trek from village Barshaini. This is a place where Lord Shiva had meditated for 3000 long years.

The hike to hot water spring Kheerganga is so picturesque that each trail leaves you spellbound. The trek lands you away from the city hustle-bustle, into the serene lap of nature, isolated from habitation, and technology.

At Kheerganga, nature and landscapes have retained its original shape and form. With every step, you hear the gushing flow of water; feel the aura and fragrance of woods.

The flat Kheerganga meadows with hues of blue sky on top, erect never-ending mountain slopes bursting with pine trees, 100 feet tall waterfalls and a hot water spring in the midst of all is what makes it one of the top treks in India.

How to get there – Kheerganga Trek starts from village Barshaini which lies around 22 kilometers from Kasol and 3 km from Tosh

Best Time to go: The best time to hike to hot water spring of Kheerganga is between May – November.

Some Important Tips:

Hike only during day-time and be careful with wildlife
Do not pluck apples on the way as it’s annoying for the locals
Avoid Shortcuts unless you are with a guide who knows in and out about the place
Watch your steps at hot water spring as it is very slippery
Never run and be careful with stones on the trail

Read Next: The Ultimate Guide to Parvati Valley

Dainkund-Jot Trek, Himachal Pradesh

Contributed by Pooja of Fairytale Studios

The Dainkund-Jot trek is a spectacularly scenic day trek near Dalhousie in the Himachal Pradesh state of India. The 9-kilometre trek is of easy difficulty level, and yet has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty. This makes it one of the best treks in India for beginners.

The trek starts from a parking lot in Dainkund. A steep ascent from here takes one to the Dainkund peak, where an Indian temple dedicated to Pholani Mata is located.

The Dainkund peak is inhabited by the Indian Air Force and is the highest peak of Dalhousie located at a height of 9000 feet from the sea level.

The trail then runs entirely over a ridge, providing scenic views on both sides. It passes through a grove of trees and emerges at a shepherd shelter.

This is the best viewpoint of the trek from where one can get a picturesque view of the Pir-Panjal mountain range. The trail then follows a ridge over vast grassy meadows and meanders through numerous ponds, shepherd shelters and several viewpoints along the Jot ridge to end at Chowari Jot parking lot.

The Dainkund-Jot trek trail is an extremely less-explored trail but is well marked and can be done solo without the help of a guide. The trek is best done between March to November. Ensure that you start early in the morning so that you complete the trek taking as many breaks to photograph as you want.

Singalila Ridge Trek- West Bengal

Contributed by Louise of Wandering Welsh Girl

Singalila National Park is one of India’s best trekking destinations. The Singalila Ridge in West Bengal connects the grand Himalaya of Nepal to India. Hikes along the length of the ridge typically take 6 days with the highest point being Sandakphu at 3636m.

On my tour of India I didn’t have time to hike the whole ridge, so instead opted for a day trek package offered by one of the various tour companies in Darjeeling.

We were picked up at 6 AM and drove for 2.5 hours to the small village of Dhotrey where we had breakfast. Along the way, our guide bought our National Park permits and registered our passports with the park. This hike crosses into Nepal and although there are no official border controls, passports are required by park officials.

From Dhotrey it’s a gradual 6 km ascent to Tonglu at 3041m. This is the highest point on the trek and on clear days offers views of 4 of the highest peaks in the world – Everest, Kachenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu.

From Tonglu we to hiked to Tumling, where we had a delicious Dahl Baat lunch along with a millet beer to celebrate Tibetan New Year.

After lunch it was all down-hill as we passed through several beautiful mountain villages to our endpoint in Chitrey. After a well-earned chai in Chitrey, our taxi then drove us back to Darjeeling where we arrived at 6 PM.

This moderately difficult day hike from Darjeeling is 18km in total and is a full day out. The best time of year to enjoy this hike between March and May when the colorful flowers such as rhododendrons, orchids and magnolia are in full bloom, or between September and December when the skies are typically clear.

Munnar Tea Plantations- Kerala

Contributed by Soujanya of The Spicy Journey

Munnar, a picturesque hill station in the state of Kerala, is known for its tea plantations. Personally, I found that the best way to get up and close to the Munnar tea plantations was by going on a sunrise trek, which will prove to you that this is indeed one of the best trekking places in South India.

A sunrise trek in Munnar can be as grueling or easy as you want it to be. Since there are many hills and viewpoints in Munnar, most tour companies and trek organizers organize treks with varying levels of difficulty.

The easy or beginner sunrise trek lasts approximately 40 minutes to an hour and it involves a leisurely walk through the tea plantations until you reach a clearing at a hilltop.

On the other hand, those who are into trekking or love a physical challenge can go for a more challenging sunrise trek which involves climbing a higher peak before sunrise.

And so, the trek starts 3-4 hours before sunrise and involves walking in the dark through tea plantations, local villages, and trekking upwards, often through forested areas, towards the peak of a hill, from where you will get to witness a spectacular sunrise over the tea plantations.

Most reputable tour companies provide snacks and water along with an experienced tour guide. It is suggested to read online reviews or to book a tour associated with your place of stay in order to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Barsey Rhododendron Trek- Sikkim

Contributed by Mohana and Aninda of Two Together

In spring, blooming rhododendrons color the wooded mountains of West Sikkim in a riot of pink and white- and the best way to enjoy the blooms are on a trek through the Barsey rhododendron sanctuary. You can opt for a day trek from Hillay and back or choose a longer, five-day trek from Hillay to Uttarey via Barsey, Jorebotey, and Thula Dhap.

The trail runs through thickets of bamboo and old-growth rhododendrons dolloped with red, pink, and white blossoms. Ancient lichen adorns branches and boughs and magnolias perfume the cold air.

The songs of nilatavas and rosefinches, warblers and orioles accompany you as you trek up the narrow, winding path towards Barsey. After Barsey, the forests open up and wide vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas greet you. On lucky days, you can spot the Khangchendzonga!

The abundance of scenic beauty— pristine meadows and sparkling mountain streams all framed by the pink and white blossoms— is moving.

On clear nights, sparkling stars spill over the inky sky and moonlight shimmers on snowy peaks as you settle down for a rustic local meal: rice and vegetables, sometimes momos, and down it with a swig of sweet rhododendron wine.

There are homestays at Hillay or you can stay in Okhrey , about 30 min by car. This is an all-season trek but to experience the bewitching splendor of the rhododendrons, come in April-May.

Kipepeo organizes trekking groups. You can join them or hire local guides from Okhrey- regardless, you will be sure to find yourself enthralled by the offbeat beauty of what is surely one of the best treks in India.

Gokarna Beach Trail- Karanataka

Contributed by Ellis of Backpack Adventures

One of my favorite treks in India was not in the mountains as you might expect, but right at the beach. Gokarna is an increasingly popular beach destination in Karnataka in the South of India with several beaches that are connected with each other through the Golden trail.

The Golden trail is an 8-kilometer path along the shore of the Arabian sea. You can either start in the sleepy temple town of Gokarna or at Paradise beach and then walk back. Either way, you will have beautiful views and the different beaches you come across are all different.

There is the main beach where the pilgrims from Gokarna take a dip in the waters before they visit the temples. Then there is Om beach, famous for its Om shape, and after that the more remote Half Moon and Paradise beaches that are only accessible by boat or on foot.

It’s not a difficult trek but some stretches are rocky and hilly so you will need some sturdy shoes. The best time for the trek is between October and April when the weather is dry and pleasant.

But even then, it can get warm as there is not much shade. Always bring enough water with you, as well as sunscreen and a sunhat. Then your good to go to enjoy the Gokarna beach trail- one of the best treks in South India.

Phantom Head Trek- Kerala

Contributed by Jackson of Journey Era

Munnar is one of the most underrated trekking regions in India and one of the spectacular hiking trails in Munnar is the Phantom Head. It’s renowned for providing a spectacular sunrise viewing platform from the summit, which overlooks the surrounding valleys.

The short hike covers an intense ascent of 400 meters. Beginning at 1500 meters above sea-level, the hike eventually reaches an altitude of almost 2000 meters.

The hard work is worth the journey to race to the summit in time to watch the sunrise over the horizon. The Phantom Head (locally known as ‘Phantom Kettu’) hike will have you mesmerized by the Western Ghats- making it one of the best treks in India.

Most hikers stay the night at the Anaerangal Camp, which is a cottage -style camping accommodation at the base of the mountain. It is very practical to stay nearby so you can start in the early hours of the morning.

Make sure you bring sturdy hiking shoes because the trail can be very muddy, especially near the wet season. You will also need a torch or a headlamp as you will be hiking up in the dark in order to witness the sunrise at the summit!

Roopkund Lake Trek- Uttarakhand

Contributed by Ruma of The Holiday Story

Roopkund Lake in Uttarakhand India, located at an altitude of 5,000 meters above sea level, is also known as Mystery Lake.

A forest ranger found the skeletal remains of about 100 people inside a glacier lake in Uttarakhand. Since then, many mysteries surround Roopkund Lake, the trail to which provides some of the best trekking in India.

The best time for trekking in Roopkund is from late May to October when the mountain weather is at its best. I started my journey from Kolkata , where I set out to reach Haridwar by train. After Haridwar, I had to reach the village of Lohajung.

The trek starts from “One Village” and lasts for 5 days. Since there is no market in One Village”, all the rices/oils/vegetables of trek have to be bought from Lohajung.

On the first day, our target was “Bugial”. It is an altitude of 3354 m. The trek of Ghantacharek is on the second day from “Bedini Bugial” to “Pattharnachuni”. The third day we reached “Baguabasa” from “Pattarnachuni”. It is located at an altitude of 14000 ft.

We spent the day here, and the night was filled with dancing and singing. Early the next morning, we finally started trekking to Roopkund. Once we reached Roopkund, the weather was good, so we also visit Junar Gali and then return by early morning.

Keep in mind that the last half kilometer to reach Roopkund is really difficult and very steep. Oxygen deficiency is a real concern. It takes 2 days to return to Lohajung.

Trek to Mandini, Alternate to Valley of Flowers – Uttarakhand

Contributed by Sumit of TravelDreams.live

The Valley of Flowers has been hyped and exposed to constant hordes of travelers and trekkers. It is time to give it some respite.

The Valley of Mandini is home to some of the most unique and pretty flora of the Himalayan region. The giant mountains of Mandini I, II & III encircle the valley and allow only a narrow passage into the Valley which has the Mandini river flowing.

What Is the Uniqueness of Mandini?

If the reader wishes to observe and experience the niche segment of the Himalayan Flora , this place beats the Valley of Flowers in all aspects of beauty and ruggedness.

It is one of the most underrated treks in the Himalayan region which transverses through lush meadows, and undulating mountains ranges amid dense greenery and forest cover- making it one of the best and most beautiful treks in India.

Details about the trek

To reach Mandini Valley, one has to commence the trek from Raasi Village and chart one’s course through the Rudranath Wildlife sanctuary (in state of Uttarakhand, India), past traditional age-old waypoints of Sandera, Thauli and Dagla before climbing up to an approximate elevation of 4400 mt.

The trek to reach the Valley is a five-day affair considering the remoteness of the Valley. If one wishes to see the Himalayan flora in all glory, the best times are Aug-Sept when the icy region thaws and comes ALIVE in all its glory.

Chadar Trek- Ladakh

Contributed by Arnav of High on Himalayas

One of the toughest treks in India, and yet one of a kind is the famed Chadar Trek. Chadar Trek is without a doubt one of the best treks in India, however, it’s also unique for a lot many reasons, one of them being that you are able to appreciate the beauty of nature up close.

The Chadar Trek is essentially a walk on the river Zanskar. It is a 65 km long trek, spread out over 5 days, in the Ladakh district of North India. The trek usually takes place in the month of January or Feburary, and is one of if not THE best winter treks in India.

Five days of walking in the freezing cold on snow/ice, four nights of braving the sub-zero temperatures, all whilst appreciating the small pleasures in life – such as drinking piping hot chai the first thing in the morning, overlooking the river flow by silently in front of your campsites or craving sunlight during the day.

When planning to tick Chadar Trek off your bucket list, it is imperative that your trip itinerary allows you to acclimatize for 3-4 days in Leh prior to embarking on the trek, owing to the high altitude and the thin air.

Based on my personal experience, I highly recommended that you keep some extra days in your hand, towards the end of the planned trek dates.

This way, if a delay arises due to uncontrollable circumstances such as heavy snowfall, you don’t have to worry about losing out on your flight ticket and rebooking another one at a higher cost. If all goes smoothly, you can use the extra time on your hand to experience the beauty of Ladakh in winters.

Nagalapuram Trek- Tamil Nadu

Contributed by Bhushavali of My Travelougue by Bhushavali

India is a rich & diverse land where contraries are both true! One of the examples is the weather – our weather ranges from super-cold to super-hot in various regions.

While the Himalayan range in Northern India is awesome with very tall peaks and super-cold weather, which you need to trek with a snow-suit, the Eastern & Western Ghats in Southern India are very-warm and very rich in their biodiversity- and you can do this trek while wearing shorts!

One of the hills in the Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh border is Nagalapuram. There are 3 waterfalls of different altitudes atop Nagala and to reach them one can trek from the west, which is slightly easier, or from the East, which is slightly harder.

We did the Nagalapuram trek from the east and it was loads of fun. We arrived the night before and camped beneath the stars at the foothills prior to starting the trek at about 6 AM.

The trek is moderate and can be done in 1 day, making it one of the ideal day-trips from Chennai . It is very picturesque with streams running along. The path also requires quite a bit of climbing onto boulders along with some harsh inclines.

At one point, we even had to do a Spiderman-climb across the face of a huge boulder, with a deep pool beneath, and I almost lost my grip! At some spots the boulders were too smooth, so it was safer to go barefoot. That was quite a thrill!

Sandakphu Trek- West Bengal

Contributed by Debjani of The Vagabong

Sandakphu Trek is one of the best tea house treks in East India. It is an easy to moderate level trek which can be done over 4-5 days depending on the pit stops.

Sandakphu Trek is considered one of the best treks in India, as it gives you a chance to witness some of the panoramic Himalayan mountain ranges. On a good weather day, some of the places let you witness Mt. Everest, Makalu peak, Mt. Lhotse, and of course gigantic and rugged Mt. Kanchenjunga.

It is fairly considered as a convenient trek because there are several homestay and tea houses where trekkers can halt for the night. So, lugging a tent is not really required.

For the perfect views and weather conditions, the best time is to visit is during Winter season, Oct-Dec. One can also opt for springtime to witness the gorgeous Rhododendron flower blooms.

To start this trek, one has to reach Siliguri in West Bengal, where all the treks commence. Bagdogra is the nearest airport. On this trail, one can also see old Landrover (four-wheel drive) jeeps plying for people who are not able to hike but who also want to witness the enchanting mountain views.

Even when trekking in good weather, it is always advisable to be prepared for unexpected weather changes, as such is quite a common phenomenon in the mountains.

Stok Kangri Trek- Ladakh

Contributed by Sonakshi and Mainak of Places In Pixel

The Himalayan region in India offers a lot of hikes, treks and mountaineering opportunities. But a few definitely stand out, and the Stok Kangri Trek is definitely one of them.

Standing tall at an altitude 6153 meters above-sea-level, Stok Kangri is the highest trekkable peak in India (most other 5000m+ peaks will require some form of mountaineering).

Although this trek does not involve mountaineering, the adventure and its difficulty not to be mistaken. One of the most important points that you need to keep in mind for any 5000m+ peaks is your level of fitness and preparedness.

And, that turned out to be the most adventurous (risky, to be precise) aspect of my Stok Kangri Summit trek – it was my first 4000m+ peak, and I was mildly unprepared (to say the least)! It was a thrilling experience but could easily have turned out to be otherwise.

In fact, just like me, many of my trekking-teammates underestimated the difficulty of this trek and the need to acclimatize before and during the ascent, which made our Stok Kangri Summit an enduring challenge.

The best time to embark on the Stok Kangri adventure is May-September, with July being the most ideal. Since Stok Kangri peak lies in the Stok Range of the Himalayas, the starting point of this trek is the Stok Village in Leh.

Border Hiking in Thekkady National Park- Kerala

Contributed by Ellie of The Wandering Quinn

If you want to see Wild Elephants in India in a responsible way, you have to add trekking in Thekkady National Park in Kerala to your South India itinerary !

There are a few day trips and treks you can do to see the Wild Elephants that live in Thekkady National Park but the trek I would recommend is called the Border Hike.

This is a full day, hard trek that takes you deep into the wilderness of the National Park- making this one of the best treks in India for animal lovers!

You’ll be accompanied by at least 2 guides, one to explain where you are going and what you are seeing like the fauna and various other animals that call the park home, and the other to carry a gun and keep you protected!

Seeing the Wild Elephants is of course not guaranteed but the guides are good and it’s very likely you will spot them at some point on your trek.

I had to wait until right at the end of my trek but it was a great way to finish what was already an interesting and physically demanding, but rewarding trek in Kerala!

The town of Kumily is the tourist town for Thekkady National Park and there is a good amount of accommodation here. Local buses connect Kumily to other towns and cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu which is just next door.

Nongriat Living Root Bridges Trek- Meghalaya

Contributed by Jitaditya of The Travelling Slacker

If you are looking for a really unique trek in India, go for the Living Root Bridge Trek in Nongriat, Meghalaya. The hike takes you to the small village of Nongriat set amidst dense forests and this is where you also see the iconic double-decker living root bridge.

These bridges are made by local Khasi people by directing the roots of the trees to form bridges over hilly streams. The trees grow over generations to form these bridges.

Beyond the village of Nongriat, you can hike further for another 1.5 hours to reach Rainbow Falls. This is a beautiful bluish-green waterfall with a perennial rainbow over it (Unless it is a cloudy day).

Unlike other treks, here you hike downwards (returning is an uphill task, both literally and figuratively). Nongriat has a few homestays and it is advisable to stay there for the night.

The nearest major town is Cherrapunjee, otherwise known for its waterfalls and caves. From there you will find local transport to the starting point of the trek.

This is one of the most famous treks in Northeast India , which offers many other hidden gems that are lesser-known compared to the treks in the Indian Himalayas.

Read Next: 102 Amazing Indian Street Food Dishes

Kolukkumalai Trek- Tamil Nadu

Contributed by Athul of Our Backpack Tales

Kolukkumalai is located in the Theni district of Tamil Nadu. Kolukkumalai can also be accessed by Jeep from the Suriyanalle town in Kerala.

The Kolukkumalai Trek is one of the most popular things to do in Munnar , and it is famed to be the highest organic tea plantation in the world. At an elevation of 7086 feet above sea level, it is one of the best treks in South India.

The trek starts at the Kurangani Village and is considered to be of moderate difficulty. It takes around 6-7 hours to reach the peak from the base.

You can witness a variety of vegetation as you trek up to the summit like grasslands, thick forests and pine trees. It is the best place to catch an epic sunrise, and camping options are also provided by different tourist agencies.

Sham Valley Trek- Ladakh

Contributed by Ellie of Soul Travel Blog

Commonly known as the “baby trek” in Ladakh, India’s roof of the world and one of the most beautiful parts of the country, the Sham Valley trek is often suggested to trekkers new to the Ladakh region.

Easily accessible and relatively close to Ladakh’s main city of Leh, the trek is a great opportunity to explore some of Ladakh’s gentler valleys between homestays.

Even for this trek though, it’s recommended to rest in Leh for at least 2-3 days if you arrive by plane before heading out trekking, to allow you to adjust to the altitude.

One of the best things about the Sham Valley Trek (aside from the views) is it runs from homestay to homestay – allowing the perfect opportunity to stay with Ladakhi families and learn more about the unique culture and lifestyle in Ladakh which is unlike anywhere else in India. Homestays are simple – don’t expect hot showers – but provide shelter from the heat or cold, depending on when you are trekking.

The Sham Valley Trek is generally open longer than other treks in Ladakh given its lower altitude – depending on the year, it’s usually possible to trek this route with a local guide between April or May and September.

We don’t recommend trekking without a guide in Ladakh due to constantly changing conditions and it also helps support local people through employment.

Just don’t get lulled into a false sense of security by the “baby trek” nick-name! This is still a challenging trek passing over 3,700m in parts, but the main difference between this and other Ladakh treks is that you’ll only be trekking half days, and staying in homestays rather than camping.

Valley of Flowers- Uttarakhand

Contributed by Nisha & Vasu from Lemonicks.com

Visualize a valley in the Western Himalayas. Now imagine the valley to be full of a wide variety of wild and colorful flowers. Add to that some high-altitude animals. The result is this dreamy romantic place called the Valley of Flowers- one of the most beautiful treks in India.

Valley of Flowers National Park is situated in the North Chamoli district of the State of Uttarakhand. This valley is well known for over 500 species of high-altitude flowers that are found only in this region.

This is also home to the Himalayan snow leopard, musk deer, Himalayan Monal Pheasant and other rare species of animals and birds.

During the right season, the entire valley is covered with flowers. In fact, every 15 to 20 days the colors of the carpet of flowers change, as different plants bloom at different times.

The flowers bloom only during the monsoon season, which is July to September. For the most unforgettable experience of the valley of flowers, the end of July to August is the best time.

The trek starts from the village of Ghangaria, which is at an altitude of 3100 Metres. The route is marked and may be classified as an easy to moderately difficult trek, compounded by the thin air. The Valley of Flowers is at an altitude of 3800 meters.

The total distance to the entrance of the valley of flowers is just about 4 km of an uphill trek. The valley itself is 8Km long by 2Km wide and needs a lot of time to explore the various sites and flowers.

Ghangaria is about 10 Kms from Pulna village, which is the nearest motorable road and is connected to the city of Joshimath. Ghangaria is also the base for Hemkunt Sahib trek.

Best Treks in India: Wrap Up

Now that you’ve taken a gander at some of the best trekking places in India, all that’s left to do is grab your backpack and go!

India is BIG and this is but a small selection of mountain amazement that one can find in the Subcontinent. Hopefully, you’ve added a few new places to your bucket list, and perhaps you’ve even embarked on one of two of these already!

Is your favorite trek on the list? If not- drop it in the comments. There’s always more top treks in India to discover!

Samantha is the founder of Intentional Detours. Originally from the USA, she’s been backpacking the world since 2017, and is passionate about slow, adventure travel that puts local communities first. She has visited 19 countries and has been living in the Karakoram Mountains of Asia’s Hunza Valley since 2021. She’s super passionate about helping people get off the beaten path anywhere (on a budget of course), and her travel writing has been published in the likes of BBC Travel, CNBC, Business Insider, and more.

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Beautiful pictures and really useful content. I’d love to go and explore!

Wow that’s a great compilation..unfortunetly I haven’t been to any .

Wow interesting treks loved it very much actually I am a trek lover every year I use go for trek with my friends but this year no option to plan due to pandemic. But I didn’t explore all the treks which you have listed I will bookmark and make a plan for soon. Thanks for sharing!

Top Winter Treks in India

Dec 20, 2023

Winter is the perfect time for an adventurous getaway, with snow-covered mountains offering a magical backdrop. From October to March, you can enjoy the snowy landscapes, just like in the movies. Walking on snow can be both exciting and challenging, but don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! Check out this article for a quick guide on which route to pick for your winter trek.

1. Kedarkantha Trek: Kedarkantha stands out as the unrivalled one among winter treks. With winter landscapes adorned in knee-deep snow, enchanting vistas from its summit, and trails that effortlessly blend beauty with accessibility, it has become a trekkers’ favourite. The trail, gentle on endurance, meanders through the dense pine forests of Govind National Park, offering a serene journey to an elevation of 12,500 ft. Embarking on the Kedarkantha trek unveils a panorama of the celestial sky, verdant meadows, snow-laden pathways, picturesque villages, fragrant pine woodlands, towering peaks that touch the heavens, placid rivers, and whispers of mythological tales that linger in the air.

Trek Duration: 5 Days/4 Nights

Trek Distance: 20 km

Difficulty Level: Easy To Moderate

Best Time: November to April

2. Chadar Trek, Ladakh: In the enchanting land of Ladakh lies the most treasured gem—Chadar Trek. This extraordinary journey revolves around resilience and survival—mastering the art of enduring sub-zero temperatures in unforgiving terrains, engaging with the locals to fathom their way of life, and navigating through one of the world’s harshest living environments. As you traverse the frozen Zanskar, the trail transforms into a spectacular gorge with frozen waterfalls, resembling a “Chadar” or blanket, reflecting the vast expanse of the sky. The primal thrill of bedding down in caves, contemplating beside crackling bonfires amid freezing temperatures, all while being acutely aware of the ever-present element of danger—these experiences collectively define it as the “must-do” expedition.

Trek Duration: 9 Days/8 Nights

Trek Distance: 62 km

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Best Time: Early January – Early February

3. Everest Base Camp Trek: Revered as the “steps to heaven,” the journey to the base camp of the world’s highest mountain holds an esteemed place on every mountain enthusiast’s wish list. It offers a mesmerizing spectacle, unlike any other mountainous terrain—transitioning from lush green farmlands, dense forests, and sparkling blue rivers to desolate landscapes and glacial pools as you ascend. Upon reaching the pinnacle of the final ascent, navigating through loose rocks to unveil a vast expanse of pristine white, your only inclination will be to sit and marvel at what has undoubtedly become one of your most significant accomplishments.

Trek Duration: 12 Days/11 Nights

Trek Distance: 130 km

Difficulty: Difficult

Best Time: April to early June and September to mid-December

4. Goechala Trek: Nestled at an altitude of 16,207 ft, the Goecha La trek offers an intimate encounter with the third-highest peak, Mt. Kanchenjunga, fulfilling the dreams and desires of numerous adventure enthusiasts. Enveloped by enchanting flora and fauna, bursting with vibrant colours to uplift one’s spirits, this trek is a captivating adventure. This trek unfolds a panorama of towering summits, adding an extra layer of thrill to the expedition. The trail intertwines with the renowned Kanchenjunga National Park, immersing trekkers in the authentic embrace of nature, a revitalizing experience for the senses. For crystal-clear mountain views, the ideal months are April and May, when the sky remains impeccably clear, offering breathtaking glimpses of sunrise and sunset.

Trek Duration: 10 Days/9 Nights

Trek Distance: 90 km

Best Time: April end – May And September – November

5. Sandakphu Trek: Situated at an elevation of 11,930 ft, the Sandakphu trek is often hailed as a ‘Trekkers Wonderland.’ This captivating journey is flanked by four majestic peaks—Mount Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. Traversing the renowned Singalila Ridge, a lofty expanse at the southern terminus of an extensive crest, this ridge descends from the Kanchendzongha range, forming the natural boundary between Sikkim and Nepal. Winding through quaint settlements, this ridge offers one of the most visually rewarding experiences in the Himalayas. The entire route unfolds within the Singalila National Park, a biodiversity hotspot teeming with diverse bird species, where catching a glimpse of the elusive Red Panda is a rare but not impossible delight.

Trek Duration: 6 Days/5 Nights

Trek Distance: 52 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Best Time: March to May, October to January

6. Bhrigu Lake Trek: Nestled at an altitude of 14,100 ft, Bhrigu Lake stands as a pristine glacial sanctuary, offering an exhilarating escapade for adventure enthusiasts. This Trek in Manali stands out as one of the most enchanting short treks in the Himalayas, beckoning you to witness the allure of a high-altitude alpine lake, lush meadows, and everything your heart has longed for. This lake boasts majestic beauty that evolves with each passing season. During late summer, it adorns itself in emerald green, while in the summer months, its hues transform into a captivating shade of blue. Embarking on this trek, you’ll traverse through unparalleled vistas, featuring the Seven Sister Peaks, Deo Tibba, Indrasan, Hanuman Tibba, and the expansive Pir Panjal ranges. These breathtaking views are a balm for the senses, leaving you content amidst boundless natural beauty.

Trek Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights

Trek Distance: 26 km

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Best Time: June to May

7. Chopta Tungnath Trek: Embark on a captivating weekend trek to the serene landscapes of Chopta and Tungnath in the Garhwali Himalayas, reaching an impressive elevation of 13,000 feet. Enveloped in mist, coniferous forests, and snow, this trek promises an unforgettable experience. Chopta captivates visitors, particularly during the spring and summer seasons when vibrant vegetation blankets the region. In winter, the landscape transforms into a breathtaking spectacle, draped in a thick cover of snow, appealing to every observer’s eyes. Treat yourself to the vistas of Panchchuli, Nanda Devi, Nilkanth and Kedarnath peaks. Throughout the Tungnath trek, the path is adorned with a vibrant display of pink, red, and scarlet rhododendrons, creating a picturesque landscape against the backdrop of snow-covered Garhwal Himalayan mountains. The journey unfolds with enchanting waterfalls, lush greenery, and forest trails, immersing you in the natural splendour of the region. Upon reaching Deorital, get ready to be captivated by the sparkling waters of the lake. The Chopta trail is adorned with charming shrines with red and yellow flags.

Reaching the summit of Tungnath, the stunning panoramas of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Nandaghunti, Dronagiri, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath will mesmerize the viewers. As the trek traverses through the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, keep an eye out for the wilderness and the colourful birds that grace the surroundings.

Trek Duration: 1 Day

Trek Distance: 5 km

Difficulty: Easy

Best Time: April- November

8. Kuari Pass Trek: Embark on the Kuari Pass trek, situated in the Garhwal Himalayas, and explore popular pilgrimage cities such as Rishikesh, Devprayag, Joshimath, and Haridwar. Renowned for providing breathtaking views of India’s second-highest peak, Mount Nanda Devi, this trek unfolds at an altitude of 12,516 ft. It offers panoramic views of prominent peaks, including Dronagiri, Chitrakantha, Chaukhamba, and Tali top. Traverse through enchanting meadows and lush forests adorned with blooming rhododendrons and oak trees, creating a picturesque path. Amidst this scenic journey, take in mesmerizing vistas of holy rivers such as Bhagirathi and Alakananda, adding an extra layer of excitement to your ascent.

Trek Duration: 6 days/5 Nights

Trek Distance: 33 km

Best Time: March to mid-June & mid-September to early November

9. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek: Nestled in the scenic state of Sikkim, Kanchenjunga stands as a formidable peak in the mighty Himalayas, reaching an impressive elevation of approximately 8,586 meters. Traversing through lush thickets adorned with magnolia, rhododendron and ferns, the Tshoka hamlet and Phedang Pass will mesmerize the visitors. The awe-inspiring views of Pandim, Thenchinkhang, and Jhuponu mountains are stunning. As you trek towards Thangshing, marvel at the high altitude waterfall and swimming pools at Prek Chu River, crossing the Paha Khola Bridge. The enchanting landscapes around Samiti Lake and Zemathang Plateau on the way to Goecha La Pass, the majestic vistas of Kanchenjunga will enchant your soul. Reach the Kanchenjunga Base Camp after passing through Bikhbari, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Frey’s peak, Koktang, Kabur, and Rathong.

Trek Duration: 11 days/10 Nights

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Best Time: Mid April- June and Mid September- November

10. Snow Leopard Trek: Explore the allure of the Snow Leopard Trek, one of Ladakh’s most coveted treks, nestled in the eastern region at an altitude of 3000 meters. Encompassing the renowned Hemis National Park, this trek unfolds across 600 sq. kilometers in the picturesque valleys of Markha and Rumbak. As a protected area, embarking on this trek to encounter rare animals promises a thrilling experience, offering not only a diverse range of wildlife but also an array of birds and insects contributing to the rich biodiversity. You may have the chance to spot unique and endangered species, including the elusive snow leopard, Ibex, Shapo, Marmot, Tibetan Hare, and Antelope. The region is also home to captivating bird species like Snow Partridge, Snow Cock, Horned Lark, Red-Billed Chuff, among others. This trek allows trekkers to witness the untamed wilderness, free from human interference. The rugged mountains, vast stretches of greenery, and the opportunity to observe rare species of animals and birds make this trek truly captivating. With surprises awaiting at every trail turn, this journey offers an unforgettable experience and unveils the intriguing tales of the Rumbak Valley.

Trek Duration: 8 days/7 Nights

Trek Distance: 29 km

Best Time: November- March

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20 Stupefying Winter Treks In Himalayas: Take Your Adventure Game A Notch Higher In 2024!

23 Mar 2023

It is the dream of every adventure seeker to try trekking in the Himalayas. The narrow passes, steep ascends & descends, and the breath-taking views attract the hikers. Luckily enough, India is blessed with the magnificent Himalayas that provide ample opportunity to hike. Winters may not be the safest time to hike, but it is the experience that counts for the adventure junkies.

Yes, it is tough to walk on snow sheets. The temperatures are freezing, but breath-taking views make up for all the effort and pain. As much as it is hard to believe, not all of these treks are difficult. Let’s go through the best of winter treks in the Himalayas to help you take your pick from easy, moderate and difficult ones.

Top 20 Winter Treks In Himalayas

These winter treks mentioned below cater to each and every level of difficulty. Whether you are just beginning your journey as a trekker or a already a pro after conquering tens of the mountains, these best winter treks in Himalayas will only have one effect on you – overwhelming. So, simply enjoy your winter escapes when the mountains give you a call!

Easy Treks: Winter Trekking In The Himalayas For Beginners

These winter treks in Himalayas mentioned below are perfect for those who are just starting their journey of becoming a trekker.

1. Triund And Laka Glacier Trek: Gaze At Unparalleled Vistas

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This trek is all about enchanting beauty couples with load of adventure. This fascinating treak takes you to Laka Got glacier where you can indulge in camping and calm your senses. Also, don’t forget to play with the snow and make blissful memories with your loved ones!

Altitude: 2,850 m Duration: 3 Days Route: Mcleodganj square-Triund-Laka Gacier Best Season: May-June and September-October Highlights: View of deodar, rhododendron, and oak trees, green snow-clad mountain What Makes It Difficult: This is another easy trek which begginers can partake in. However, some towards the ends, some trekkers might face difficulty.

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2. Prashar Lake Trek: Witness A Magical Himalayan Sunrise

Prashar Lake Trek is toutted as one of the top short duration winter treks in Himalayas . Snuggled in the valley of the Dhauladhar range, the range runs through dense forests of pine alongwith spectacular vistas of snow-clad mountains Also, This trek is is ideal for a long weekend!

Altitude: 2750 m Duration: 2 Days Route: Panarsa-Jwalapur Village-Parashar Lake Best Season: December to February Highlights: Snow-capped mountains, pine forests, Himalayan sunrise, mystical Parashar Lake What Makes It Difficult: This is touted as one of the easiest treks. However, you might experience difficulty of there’s heavy snowfall.

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3. Kasol-Kheerganga Trek: Dive Into Natural Sulfur Hot Water Springs

One of the most famous treks among adventrures, Kasol-Kheerganga trek lets you relax in the lap of nature and spend some tranquil moments. This short trek offers a soul-stirring journey into the woods and lets winess he enchanting view of Parvati River.

Altitude: 3962.4 m Duration: 3 Days Route: Kasol-Bharsaini-Kheerganga Best Season: May to June and September to October Highlights: Rudra Naag Waterfall, Shiva Temple, fascinating rock formations What Makes It Difficult: It is a moderate to easy trek wherein you just need to know the basics with a balanced mental and physical state.

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4. Kareri Lake Trek: Loosen Up Amidst Chir And Chilgoza Pines

This captivating trek makes you fall in love with the natural beauty. The view os rich forests along with narrow terrains and unrealistic meadows will give a myriad of unforgettable memories. Moreover, you can also indulge in Tyrolean Traversing to make the most of your adventrous trek.

Altitude: 2,934 m Duration: 3 Days Route: Dharamkot-Kareri Village-Kareri Lake Best Season: May to July and September to November Highlights: Dhauladhar Mountain, scenic meadows, alpine and forests of Oak and Rhododendron What Makes It Difficult: This is another which does not require much efforts. However, since climbing in deep snow is a part of this trek, you need to get ready for it.

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5. Kuari Pass Winter Trek: The Lord Curzon Trail

One of the best winter treks in india, The Kuari Pass trek was discovered by the erstwhile viceroy Lord Curzon and is popularly known as Lord Curzon trail among the Europeans. On the downward trail, trekkers can halt at one of the most amazing ski resorts in India – Auli.

Altitude: 4425 m Duration: 8 days Route: Dhak-Chitrakantha -Tali Top-Khulara-Kuari Pass-Tali -Auli-Joshimath Best Season: Mid December – February Highlights: Sunrise views of Mt Kamet, Mt Chaukhamba, Mt Trishul, & Nanda Devi What Makes It Difficult: The challenging part of this trek is when the snow level is high. Otherwise, this one is easy, yet an adventurous trek.

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6. Nag Tibba Winter Trek: Journey To The Abode Of Nag Devta

In addition to being a beginner’s destination for Himalayan winter trek in December and around the month, Nag Tibba is also a Hindu pilgrimage to the temple of Nag Deva (Snake God). Beginning in Dehradun, the trek goes through the remote villages and landscapes of Pantwari, Nagtibba, Devalsari, and Thatyur.

Altitude: 3,050 m Duration: 5 days Route: Dehradun-Pantwari-Nagtibba-Devalsari-Thatyur Best Season: Mid November – March Highlights: Sight of the Swargarohini & Nanda Devi peaks from Thatyur, temple of Nag Tibba, and remote villages around What Makes It Difficult: This trek is not much difficult to partake in. However, during the trek, you would pass through dense forests where you need to be a bit careful.

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7. Dodital Winter Trek: Ft. Snow-Capped Mountains & Golden Mahseer Fish

The easy Dodital trek takes you through the oak woods, pines, & rhododendron forests. It includes camping around along the beautiful Dodi Lake – famous for its Himalayan Golden Mahseer Fish – before taking you to the Darwa Pass. The scenic charm and chilly weather make it among the best places for trekking in Uttarakhand in January.

Altitude: 3,050 m Duration: 5 days Route: Sangam Chatti-Agoda-Bebra-Manjhi-Dodital-Darwa Pass Best Season: Mid December – January Highlights: Fish feeding at Dodi Lake camp, views of Bandarpunch peak (Tail of Lord Hanuman) & Dhaula Dhar ridges, and side strip to Yamunotri base camp What Makes It Difficult: If you are indulging in this trek during winters then you might find some difficulty as you would have to walk a lot on the thick bed of snow. So, make sure you carry along perfect shoes!

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8. Auli Gorson Winter Trek: A Short Stay In The Alpine Paradise

Girls pose for a picture while others set up tents on the Auli Gorson winter trek

From Rishikesh to Gorson Bugyal, this is one of the most beautiful winter treks in India and it takes you through Joshimath and Auli. The journey from Rishikesh to Joshimath is, however, covered by bus. You will be covering Joshimath to Auli by ropeway. The main walk is between Auli and Gorson. The deodar & oak trees and the beautiful view of the Nanda Devi peak add to the rich experience of this easy trek.

Altitude: 3050 m Duration: 6 days Route: Rishikesh-Joshimath-Auli-Gorson Bugyal Best Season: November – Mid March Highlights: Rishikesh base camp bonfire, breath-taking view of the Nanda Devi, and Ski valley at Auli – one of the best places for skiing in India What Makes It Difficult: Since this area is covered with snow during winters, you’re likely to face some difficulties. Also, you mught experience low wind speed and the dipping temperature.

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9. Kedarkantha Winter Trek: Pretty Campsites Amidst Giant Pines

Snaps from the Kedarkantha winter trek of different people

Kedarkantha winter treks in Uttarakhand is famous for its pretty campsites in clearings surrounded by giant pines. The climb & descent through the enchanting forest ends with an icing. The trail being easy serves as a perfect winter trek in Himalayas.

Altitude: 3,500 m Duration: 6 days Route: Sankri-Juda ka Talab-Kedarkantha Base-Kedarkantha peak-Hargaon camp-Sankri Best Season: Last week of December – Mid April Highlights: Juda-Ka-Talab & Hargaon campsites surrounded by giant pines and 360-degree view of famous mountain summits, Kempty falls, Tons Valley, and Sankri What Makes It Difficult: This one is an easy trek and just need to stick to the basics which is layering up and keeping yourself hydrated at all times.

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10. Dayara Bugyal Winter Trek: Into The Ski Valley

Bugyal in local dialect means “High Altitude Meadow”. One of the easiest winter treks in Himalayas , it takes you through some of the most beautiful meadows in Uttarakhand, spanning 28 sq km and offering Nordic and Alpine skiing options. The vacant shepherds’ huts provide cozy stay options in chilly winters.

Altitude: 3,600 m Duration: 6 days Route: Barsu/Raithal Village-Barnala Bugyal-Dayara Bugyal-Bakariya Top Best Season: Mid December – February Highlights: Barnala Lake, meadows, ski valleys, and shepherds’ huts What Makes It Difficult: Perfect for beginners, this easy-easy trek needs you to keep essentials in your mind. Also, make sure thet you are physically active!

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11. Kedarkantha Trek: A Walk On The Frozen Lake

Image Credits: Kanthi Kiran for Wikimedia Commons

Kedarkantha Trek has some of the most thrilling and adventurous times waiting for you in the majestic mountain range. The magnificence of snowfall, the peaceful winds, and the pine trees oozing of Christmas vibes make the trek to this destination in the Himalayas totally worth it. This is one of the most standout treks when it comes to snow trekking in the middle of the majestic Himalayas. The best thing about this trek is the remote route that one needs to take in order to reach the base camp. It is as gorgeous as it can get!

Altitude: 3810 m Duration: 6 days Route: Dehradun-Sankri-Juda Ka Talab-Kedarkantha Base-Kedarkantha Peak Best Season: December – April Highlights: Exquisite species of flora and fauna, breath-taking view of the snow-capped mountains, and the views of the frozen pond. What Makes It Difficult: The trek throughout will have knee-length snow which might get a little tricky to cross. Otherwise it is an easy to moderate level trek.

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These winter treks in Himalayas are for those who have come a little far from their beginning but still have a long way to go!

12. Brahmatal Trek: A Fairly New Winter Trek In Uttarakhand

The snow-laden mountains are hard to be scaled in peak winter season. Brahmatal is one of the very few winter treks in Uttarakhand in January-February. And despite the cold season, it is not very difficult to scale.

Altitude: 3,270 m Duration: 7 days Route: Kathgodam-Loharjung-Bekaltal-Brahmatal-Daldum-Kathgodam Best Season: Mid January–February Highlights: Brahmatal lake at the mountain top, jungles with snow beneath the leaves, and terrific panoramic views What Makes It Difficult: This trekking trail is covered with abundant snow that may hinder your trek. So, make sure that your are clad in many layers.

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13. Singalila Sandakphu Winter Trek: Search For The Red Panda

Confined in the North-East, this Himalayan winter trek is best done in the winter season. It is the only trek in India that lets you see some of the tallest mountains in the world – Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse. Furthermore, you may be lucky enough to find red pandas and Tragopan.

Altitude: 3,636 m Duration: 7 days Route: Dhontrey-Tonglu-Garibas-Sandakphu-Phalut-Rammam-Rimbik-Darjeeling Best Season: October – November Highlights: Monasteries, snow-capped mountains, Tiger Hill, and views of Kanchenjunga, Everest, Makalu, & Lhotse What Makes It Difficult: Since the weather conditions may change frequently, you might experience some challenges during this trek.

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14. Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Get Hyptonized By The Giant Mountains

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular treks in Annapurna region. This stupendous trek offers you to back in the beauty of rhododendron forest, pictersque mountain vistas, and the exceptional the Annapurna Range. Since the trek lets you witness various floral and faunal species, it is also famously known as sanctuary trek.

Altitude: 4130.04 m Duration: 10-11 Days Route: Pokhara-Nayapul-Ghandruk-Sinuwa-Deurali-Annapurna Base Camp Best Season: February to May Highlights: Buddhist culture, interaction with locals, flora and fauna What Makes It Difficult: With a moderate difficulty level, this trek requires basic precautions. Also, the routes of this trek has steep climbs, dense forest, and rustic pathways through villages.

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15. Har Ki Dun Winter Trek: The Trek To The Amphitheatre Of Gods

Har Ki Dun winter trek, set in the vicinity of the Kedar Kantha Trek, snakes through a pretty valley dotted with villages that boast of unseen Himachali architecture. The trek eventually takes the trekkers through forests of chestnut, walnut, & willow trees.

Altitude: 3,560 m Duration: 8 days Route: Sankri-Taluka–Osla–Kalkatiya Dhar-Har Ki Dun Best Season: Mid November – Mid March Highlights: Osla village, Kala Nag, Bandarpunch, Ruinsara peaks, Jaundhar glacier, and the majestic Swargarohini What Makes It Difficult: The initital park of the trek is quite easy. However, the trek from Osla to Har-Ki-Doon is quite tough as you will have to reach a sudden height of approximately 2000 feet at a stretch.

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16. Dzongri Winter Trek: From The Erstwhile Sikkim Capital

The Dzongri trek enthralls adventure enthusiasts and novices alike. The trek beginning in Yuksom – erstwhile capital of Sikkim, paves its route through beautiful gorges, forests laden with Himalayan flowers, and panoramic views of Mt Pandim, Mt Thenchinkhang, & Mt Jhopuno.

Altitude: 4,020 m Duration: 8 days Route: Yuksom-Tshoka-Dzongri-Halt Best Season: Mid November – March Highlights: Short-term trek, Dzongri and Dzongri La view point, Laxmi Pokhari Lake What Makes It Difficult: This is considered as a moderate to difficult trek and it’s better to have a priport trekking experience for this one. Also, you will experience light air along with lesser oxygen beyond Dzongri.

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17. Chadar Trek: The Frozen River Trek In Zanskar Valley

With temperatures falling to as low as -35 degrees Celsius, the Zanskar river freezes to form a sheet of ice. People often compare this experience of winter trekking in Himalayas to sliding on ice rinks. But the beautiful sight of the frozen river and the Shanti Stupa en route makes the experience all the more exciting. See our complete Chadar Trek Guide , if it’s on the cards anytime soon.

Altitude: 3850 m Duration: 9 days Route: Chilling-Zaribago-Deepyokma- Naerak Pullu -Lingshed-Nyarakpulu-Tso Mopoaldar-Tilatdo-Chilling Best Season: Mid January – February Highlights: Shanti Stupa and Walk on frozen river What makes it difficult: The temperatures are uncomfortably freezing throughout the day. Walking on the ice sheet itself is very difficult. Also, trekkers come across icy rocks and boulders that they need to climb.

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18. Snow Leopard Trek: The Ultimate Wildlife Empyrean

Scenes from the famous Snow Leopard winter trek in Himalayas

The Snow Leopard Trek takes you through a wildlife expedition in the snow-capped Hemis National Park. Nestled among the Himalayas in Ladakh, the trek gives a chance to see some of the most endangered species in India. And the additional scenic views only add to the long list of rewards to the strenuous trek.

Altitude: 4,100 m Duration: 13 days Route: Leh-Phey-Hemis National Park-Zingchen-Leh Best Season: Mid January – February Highlights: Snow Leopard, Tibetan wolves, horned sheep, blue sheep, and Eurasian Brown Bear What makes it difficult: The temperatures in winters stay below the freezing point throughout the day, ranging between -5 degrees Celsius and -10 degrees Celsius. Also, being a 13-day long trek, it is a very tiring experience.

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19. Goechala Trek: A Sparkling Gem Of The East

Overlooking the awe-inspiring Kanchenjunga, Goechala Trek is popular for heavenly sunrise and sunset views. While this adventrous trek, you will also get to witness a wide range of flora & fauna that will surely add charm to you overall experience.

Altitude: 4937.76 m Duration: 10 Days Route: Bagdogra Airport-Yuksom-Sachen-Tshokha-Dzongri-Dzongri Top-Thansing-Lamuney-Goechala Best Season: April to June Highlights: Magnificent Kanchenjunga, sunrises and sunsets, beautiful orchards What Makes It Difficult: Steep & rocky terrains make it a moderate to difficult trek. Also, during this trek, you will come across various dense forests.

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20. Everest Base Camp Trek: Perfect Start Of New Year

Image Credits: Surajaley for Wikimedia Commons

Everest Base Camp Trek has seen itself emerging as one of the most loved destinations amidst the trekker’s community. This is one of the most breathtaking winter escapes that you will fall in love with the snowy mountains. The uninterrupted scenic landscapes of the snow-clad Himalayas, the soaring high summit of the Everest base camp, and the vast greenery in this destination is truly something that one cannot ignore. Adventure lovers can simply spend their New Year’s eve in the lap of the lofty peaks of the Everest Base. What a perfect start of the year!

Altitude: 5645 m Duration: 15 days Route: Kathmandu-Lukla-Phakding-Namche Bazaar-Tengboche-Dingboche-Thukla-Lobuche-Gorakshep-Everest Base Camp Best Season: December – April Highlights: Magnificence of the Everest, a spellbinding landscape of snow-clad mountains, and green patches of grass What Makes It Difficult: The trek is one of the most challenging ones that one has ever come across. This trek is not only long but is windy throughout the journey.

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So now, when you know how to treat the adventure junkie in you, pack your bags and go on these winter treks in the Himalayas before all the snow melts away. Plan your trip to India and get ready to go on a wonderful joyride either solo or with your pals. We promise you’ll have the time of your life!

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Treks In Himalayas

What should one keep in mind while trekking in snow?

Trekking in snow is not a difficult task if you keep certain rules in mind and follow them properly. Some of the rules that you must follow are: 1. Since days are shorter during winter, begin early. 2. Keep an extra pair of socks with you. 3. Keep drinking water during the trek. 4. Carry the essential items needed for the trek. 5. Be aware of the snow cornices.

Which is the best winter trek in India?

Chadar trek - Frozen river Zanskar trek is the best winter trek in India. It is one of the toughest yet the most adventurous winter trek in Himalayas. Not only is it famous amongst the locals but also across the world for its picturesque views. The trail will take you through the Zanskar river which is frozen and is 100 km long! It takes 8 days to complete one side of the trek.

How do I get to Nag Tibba?

Nag Tibba is the highest peak of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand. It is one of the most popular treks in India. Getting to Nag Tibba is quite an easy task. The base camp is located 85 kms away from Dehradun. Once you reach the bus stand of Dehradun, take a bus to Pantwari. The route is hassle-free and offers picturesque views. After reaching Pantwari, you will have to trek for 4 kilometers in order to reach the base camp.

How do you trek Sandakphu?

If you want to trek to Sandakphu, you will have to reach Manebhanjan in Darjeeling. Sandakphu is situated at a distance of 32 kms from there. If you are a professional hiker and can trek upto 8-9 hours a day, then you will be able to complete one way in just 2 days, otherwise it takes 3 days.

How can I get to Rupin pass?

Rupin pass is located in Dehradun. The trek begins from Dhauala. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. And if you are coming by train, then the nearest railway station is Dehradun. Once you reach the airport, you can take a cab to the pass. If you reach Dehradun by train, there are two buses that leave by 5:30 am in the morning for Naitwar. From Naitwar you can take a taxi to Dhauala.

What should you not do while trekking in winter?

There are few things that you should keep in mind while trekking in winter to avoid any issue. Some of the things you should remember are: 1. Do not wear shoes with holes. 2. Don’t forget your gloves. 3. Avoid taking corners for shorter route. 4. Do not go out without drying up your hair. 5. Do not leave your necessary items in your vehicle.

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The Best Winter Treks in India

Instead of shying away from the cold this winter, why not embrace it on an exciting trek? If you’re a fan of the adrenaline rush that treks give you, winter is just the time to head off on one of them. The wintry air can be good for a great trek because it won’t leave you sweating in the scorching sun, and most of India is breath-taking during this time of the year. So, get ready to hike up to some snow-capped peaks and choose your next trek from these handpicked destinations in India.

Nag Tibba, Uttarakhand

One trail that we’re particularly fond of (and you should be too!) is Nag Tibba. You won’t necessarily encounter too much winter hassle, which is great but you will still get to see snow-capped mountains, camp under a starry sky and see sights such as the Serpent’s Peak, the Bandarpoonch peak and the Gangotri group of peaks. It’s quick enough for a weekend trip. The best part is that you will be trekking through a forest filled with beautiful sights.

Getting There: It’s a three-day trek from the famous hill station, Mussoorie.
Region: Garhwal, Uttarakhand
Duration: 2 Days
Altitude: 3,022 m
Grade: Moderate-Easy

Kuari Pass, Uttarakhand

This is one of those treks whose beauty is beyond explanation. If you want to take a trek that’s also a slice of history, this one at the altitude of 4,264 mts is perfect. Not only will you get to see the peaks of Mt. Kamet, Chaukhamba and Trishul on your way, you will also be staring over the peaks the same way that Lord Curzon (a Viceroy in India during the British Raj) did way back then. Oh, and did we mention the gorgeous skyline, dominated by the twin peaks of Nanda Devi?!

Getting There: Head to Joshimath in the Himalayas, in Uttarakhand and walk through the villages to get to the pass.
Duration: 6 Days
Altitude: 4,265 m
Grade: Easy-Moderate

Chadar Trek, Ladakh

There’s a reason why so many people love Chadar Trek and it’s because of the famous, frozen Zanskar River – which is why it’s a popular winter trek. It’s not the easiest trek to get past and it can get really, really cold! However, the scenic beauty and exotic views of the mountain ranges in the Himalayas, make it worth the hard work.

Getting there: Take a flight to Leh, drive to Gyalpo and then past Tibb Cave to the destination.
Region: Zanskar, Ladakh
Duration: 7 Days
Altitude: 4,595 m
Grade: Difficult

Kopatty, Karnataka

What would you say if we told you, we know of a trek that includes coffee plantation so you could enjoy a cup of Joe on your trail? Called Kopatty, the trek is short, you can complete it in just a day – but that doesn’t mean this winter trail is less impressive. Forget the mountains and spend your winter exploring the land instead – don’t worry though, you will reach a summit where you will get to sit by a stream and soak in the sights.

Getting There: Take a bus from Bangalore to Coorg, and then start your trek. Book a jeep to take you to the start of the trail and pick you up at the end.
Region: Coorg, Karnataka
Altitude: 1,375 m
Grade: Moderate

Pindari Glacier, Uttarakhand

We’re big fans of the Himalayas. After all, where else would you get to see beautiful, snow-capped peaks, natural beauty that stretches for miles, and glaciers that are definitive of a good winter? A trek that has all this and more is the Pindari Glacier trek, perfect to attempt during winter and nestled between the Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot mountains. Although it’s just a 90km trek, but you can still take days to cover it. It’s not necessarily that difficult so don’t worry even if you’re an amateur. From waterfalls to snow-capped peaks, this is one you shouldn’t miss.

Getting There: Take a train from Delhi to Kathgodam and then head to Bageshwar by road, from where you can start your trek.
Region: Kumaon, Uttarakhand
Altitude: 4,150 m

Sandakphu Trek, West Bengal

If you’re planning to head over to West Bengal, you should definitely squeeze this winter trek into your itinerary. A trek up to Sandakphu, in this season will help you make the most of the magical land, full of lush greenery and enthralling trails. It will take you through two days of high-summit views, where you can see places such as Phalut and Tonglu as well. The weather gets really chilly here, so carry your best winter gear!

Getting There: In West Bengal, rent a car to Manebhanjan, from where you can trek up to Sandakphu.
Region: Darjeeling, West Bengal
Altitude: 3,636 m

Araku Valley Trek, Andhra Pradesh

There is nothing as fulfilling as a trek to this valley in Andhra Pradesh during the winter. The colourful valley is a really great place to visit if you’re looking for a rich experience. The valley is well-known but not crowded, which you will love, since that makes it serene and silent. It also has great weather. Most of the natural beauty blooms at the end of the year, so this place is perfect for trekking during December and January. You can also make a pit stop in the village to see some of the local art, craft and get steeped in the colourful culture before you leave. Don’t forget to see the Borra caves when you’re here.

Getting There: Araku Valley is quite accessible from Visakhapatnam. Take a two day trek upto the valley or choose to drive.
Region: Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
Altitude: 910 m
Grade: Easy

Kodachadri, Karnataka

If you are not comfortable with exploring colder places these winters then there definitely are places down south to visit. We suggest Kodachadri- it’s a tourist hotspot, but you will be able to get some gorgeous views from the peak, once you reach. The mountain peak has abundant forest cover, and has also been declared a natural heritage site! So, walk through the Shola forests and trek up the hills for an ultimate trekking experience this winter.

Getting There: From Shimoga, near Bangalore, take a bus or taxi to Nagodi village to start your trek.
Region: Shimoga, Karnataka
Altitude: 1,343 m

Chopta Chandrashila, Uttarakhand

This is perched high in the Himalayas and offers breathtaking views. Remember to take a camera with you! The name translates to Moon Rock, and there’re temples and religious spots to visit. The altitude, combined with the clean air, make it a great place to visit during winter. Remember to gawk at the musk deer, a popular animal in the protected sanctuary region.

Getting There: You can take a train to Haridwar, drive 266 kms to Sari village and then trek to the top from there.
Altitude: 4,000 m

Remember that high altitude combined with harsh weather can wreck havoc on your health, so do stay light, but don’t forget to carry waterproof jackets, lots of fluids and GPS devices to help you reroute in case of bad weather or blocked roads.

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Winter treks in India that are perfect for adventure lovers!

Priya Srivastava , TIMESOFINDIA.COM Updated : Oct 19, 2023, 18:31 IST

Kuari Pass Trek, Uttarakhand

The Kuari Pass trek offers breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks in the Garhwal region.

Nag Tibba Trek, Uttarakhand

Nag Tibba is often called the ‘Serpent's Peak’, and is a perfect option for adventurers looking for an easy winter trek.

Pin-Parvati Pass Trek, Himachal Pradesh

This is a challenging high-altitude trek that connects the Parvati Valley to the Spiti Valley. It's known for its dramatic landscapes.

Hampta Pass Trek, Himachal Pradesh

This is a popular trek in Kullu, known for its scenic beauty. It offers stunning views of the Pir-Panjal Range.

Chadar Trek, Ladakh

The Chadar Trek is a unique experience. Imagine walking on the frozen Zanskar River, sounds magical! It's considered one of the most adventurous winter treks in India.

Kedarkantha Trek, Uttarakhand

Kedarkantha is another famous winter trek that offers stunning views of the Himalayas. The trail remains covered in snow during the winters.

Roopkund Trek, Uttarakhand

This mesmerising lake takes you to the mysterious Roopkund Lake. The lake is famous for human skeletons that have been found scattered here. It's a challenging trek though.

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Winter treks in India that are perfect for adventure lovers!

Treks in India For The Rugged Adventure Lovers

Treks in india, here is the list of 30 treks in india for the rugged adventure lovers, 1. roopkund trek.

Perched at an elevation of 5,029 m above the sea level in the lap of Trishul Peak and Nanda Ghunti, the Roopkund trek in India is a place full of mystery. Also called as 'Mystery Lake', the place is synonymous to its name owing to the discovery of human skeletons and horses remains from Palaeolithic age at this very place. Surrounded by the mesmerising scenic beauty of lush green mountains and rocky glaciers, the place presents a perfect package for trekking in India. The human and horse skeletons found around Roopkund are believed to be about 500-600 years old. The place remains frozen almost throughout the year but offers a great view of beauty. Difficulty Level: Very Difficult Duration: 8-9 Days Best Time to Visit : May-June

2. Chadar Frozen River Trek - Of the Challenging Treks in India

"Chadar" refers to the blanket or sheet as the Zanskar river transforms itself from a rapid river into a white blanket of ice during winter making it a magnificent trek in India to embark on. The frozen spectacle awaits the trekker to the experience of glass ice ranging from a bluish tinge to golden yellow that is seen during the few hours that sunlight reaches directly into the gorge to the milky whitish on a moonlit night. Chadar Frozen River trek is said to be one of the best treks in India. This is one of the toughest treks in India and of course, the most adventurous as well. Dificulty Level: Difficult Duration: 5 Days Best Time to Visit : January - February

3. Kheerganga Trek

Kheerganga is a must do when in Karol or Manali, India. Kasol, located in the state of Himachal Pradesh is the hippie paradise with the weed growing freely everywhere. Malana, the magical valley producing the best hash in the world is a half day trek from Kasol. Kheerganga is unlike any other trek in India partly due to its free-spirited ideals towards recreation. The base point of the trek is from Barshiani which is 20 km from Kasol and one can reach Barshiani via private cabs or via local buses. Difficulty Level: Easy Duration: 3 Days Best Time to Visit : May - June and September - October

4. Kedarkantha Trek - Of the Moderately Difficult Treks in India

Situated in the lap of mountains of the Tons River Valley, Kedarkantha is a stunning place offering an easy, classic trek in India. It is a lovely ridge peak accessible throughout the year with a plethora of rewarding adventures. Difficulty Level: Moderate - Easy Duration: 5-6 Days Best Time to Visit : December to April

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Srinagar Package for 5 Nights with Sonamarg Excursion

Manali volvo tour package - excursion to solang valley, ladakh 7 days itinerary - summer holiday package with nubra & pangong stay, darjeeling tour package for family: gangtok & kalimpong, sikkim tour package for 7 days - excursion to tsomgo lake, andaman island trip package - snorkeling at elephant beach, 5. har ki dun.

Nestled away from the hustle bustle of the city, Har Ki dun is a beautiful cradle shaped valley with untouched panoramic beauty. Perched at an elevation of 3,566 meters above the sea level, this place is one of the remotest areas of Uttarakhand offering a plethora of treks in India. Difficulty Level: Moderate - Easy Duration: 7 Days Best Time to Visit : September - December

6. Hampta Pass

Hampta Pass, situated in the Manali region of the Himachal Pradesh, serves as one of the most convenient and enjoyable treks in India. Laden with pristine form of nature, the trail comprises of dense pine forests, pristine glacial valleys, vast meadows and panoramic landscape. Difficulty Level: Moderate Duration: 6 Days Best Time to Visit : June to October

Far off from the hustle and bustle of cities, a trek to Triund offers you an escape into the majestic Himalayas. Situated a few kilometres from Dharamshala, it is a place perfect for trekking with amazing trails offering scenic views of the entire Kangra_valley. Triund is the perfect trek in India for beginners as the trek to Triund is short and simple. It can be done from either McLeodganj or Dharamkot, which is 2km ahead of McLeodganj. The first half of the trek is a gradually inclined walk with the last 2km from Snowline Caf which involves a vertical climb all the way till Triund. The evening sky from Triund is a sight in itself and is a good excuse for camping here at night. Difficulty Level: Easy Duration: 2 Days Best Time to Visit : May-June and September-October

8. Kanchenjungha National Park Trek

Once known as the Kanchenjunga National Park, today this place serves as a Biosphere reserve of India as well as a National Park. Nestled in the lap of the mighty Himalayan range, it is named after the third highest peak in the world and makes for an exciting yet relatively easy trek in India. Difficulty Level: Moderate Duration: 11 Days Best Time to Visit : April - May

9. Brahmatal Trek

A paradise for adventure lovers and nature buffs, the Brahmtal Trek in India is nothing short of fascinating and thrilling. Hidden away in the secluded region amidst the ridge, the lake provides an ideal destination for the intriguing trekkers. Difficulty Level: Moderate Duration: 6 Days Best Time to Visit : April - May and October - December

10. Sandakphu Trek - West Bengal's Treks in India

Sandakphu Peak (11,941 Feet) is the highest peak in West Bengal. The highest peak of Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling district, almost near the border of Nepal, it is located very close to Singalila National Park. Sandakphu trek in India will take you to the highest peak in West Bengal, giving you a spectacular view of four out of the five highest peaks in the world - The Kanchendzonga. Difficulty Level: Moderate Duration: 7 Days Best Time to Visit : February to march

11. Chandratal Baralacha Trek

Chandratal Baralacha is a perfect trek destination steeped with all the right elements such as nature's beauty, enough challenges to be thrilling and tranquillity. Perched at an altitude of 4,300 meters, it is one of the high altitude lakes in the Himalayan region. Located on the Samudra Plateau of Spiti Valley, the most delightful sight of sunset gleaming upon the turquoise waters of the lake, pristine landscape, mountain passes, several gushing streams, verdant meadows, the gush of colourful orchards and exotic wildlife make this trip an unforgotten experience to cherish forever. Difficulty Level: Easy - Moderate Duration: 4 Days Best Time to Visit : June to October

12. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Described as heaven on Earth, Kashmir offers some of the most exciting treks in India. This Great Lakes Trek is definitely one of them, though lesser known. Surrounded by sheer beauty, the trek begins at Sonamarg. Difficulty Level: Moderate - Difficult Duration: 7 Days Best Time to Visit : July - August

13. Rupin Pass Trek

Perched at an altitude of 4600m, Rupin Pass is a place adorned with stunning beauty offering an adventurous thrill to its trekkers in India. Situated in the lap of a surreal Himalayan mountain range, the trek holds several surprises for you. Difficulty Level: Moderate - Difficult Duration: 9 Days Best Time to Visit : May - June and September - October

14. David Scott Trail - Eastern Treks of India

Most popular trekking routes of Meghalaya, this path was originally laid by David Scott, a British officer as early as in the 1800s. It is still used to commute between Assam and Bangladesh. A 16km stretch covers horse tracks, waterfalls and the beautiful terrain of the East Khasi Hills. This 4-hour trek is best enjoyed in a group. October and November are the best months for this North-East Indian trek. Difficulty Level: Easy - Moderate Duration: 1 Day Best Time to Visit : October - November

15. Mcleodganj Treks

A number of treks are available in and around Mcleodganj, ranging from simple to difficult terrains. There are also a number of institutes that provide training as well as tools and facilities for trekking. Difficulty Level: Moderate Duration: 2-10 Days Best Time to Visit : October to Februaury

16. Trekking in Great Himalayan National Park

The Great Himalayan National Park is a blessing in disguise for nature lovers. From lush green forests to blooming flowers and meandering streams, this place also houses various well laid out trek paths. Difficulty Level: Moderate - Difficult Duration: 7 Days Best Time to Visit : April to June and December to Februaury

17. Chandrashila Trek

Another 1.5 km trek from Tungnath and you will reach a place called Chandrashila, an epitome of beauty and bounty of nature. The trek trail is not a proper path but enough marking to walk on. Difficulty Level: Easy - Moderate Duration: 5 Days Best Time to Visit : March to May

18. Dzongri Trek

Nestled at an altitude of 4,200 m, Dzongri Trek serves as one of the most popular high altitude trek destinations in Sikkim that can be completed in a short time. The trek offers some enchanting sights while hiking through the fascinating trail comprising of varied terrains, from patches of land streaked with green and gold and lush green meadows to dense forest and mighty peaks covered in snow. Difficulty Level: Moderate Duration: 7 Days Best Time to Visit : March to June and September - November

19. Trek to Suru Valley

Dras is a famous trekking base for a three days trek starting from Minamarg in Zotila towards Amarnath. The trek passes through some enchanting spots with vibrant flowers strewed all over the landscape, beautiful villages and lustrous river streams. Best Time to Visit : July to September

20. Panch Kedar

Panch-Kedar refers to the five temples collectively which have been dedicated to Lord Shiva and are situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. These five temples include Kedarnath which lies at an altitude of 3583m, Tungnath which lies at a distance of 3680m, Rudranath which lies at an altitude of 2286m, Madhyamaheshwar which lies at a distance of 3490m and Kalpeshwar which lies at an elevation of 2200m. Difficulty : Moderate Duration : 12 days Best Time to Visit : May - June and September - October

21. Bhabha Pass Trek

Bhabha Pass trek combines the green of Kinnaur and the barren high altitude desert of the Spiti Valley. The trek starts from Kafnu situated in the Kinnaur Valley and passes through the lush green meadows and grazing fields on the banks of river Bhabha. Difficulty Level: Moderate Duration: 2-5 Days Best Time to Visit : June to August

22. Gaumukh Trek

The Gaumukh trek is one of the most arduous treks in Northern India. However, as is said of most treks, the longer and tougher it is, the more rewarding is the destination, so is the case for this instance of adventure. Best Time to Visit : July to October

23. Parashar Lake

Prashar Lake lies 49 km north of Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India, with a the pagoda-like temple dedicated to the sage Prashar. The lake is located at a height of 2730 m above sea level with deep blue waters and holds a saintly position there. It is surrounded by snow-topped peaks and looks down on the fast flowing river Beas. The temple was built in the thirteenth century and its construction comes under the light of a vague myth. The lake has a floating island in it and its actual depth is unclear. Difficulty Level: Easy - Moderate Duration: 2 Days Best Time to Visit : December to February

24. Gomukh Tapovan Trek

(Gomukh) Gaumukh -Tapovan trek, one of the most gratifying treks in India, located in Uttaranchal will bring every fascinating trekking pleasure while passing through an orchard of coniferous pine trees at Chirbasa and birch at Bhojbasa. Difficulty Level: Moderate - Difficult Duration : 5 days Best Time to Visit : May - June and Aug to Oct

25. Pin Valley Park Trek

Nestled amid the cold desert region of Lahaul and Spiti district, Pin Valley National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. Difficulty Level: Difficult Duration: 8 days Best Time to Visit :

26. Sharavathi Valley Trek

Nestled away among the central Western Ghats, the Sharavathi valley is a peaceful place for those looking to escape from their hectic lives. A two-day trek of roughly 20 kilometres will take you through beautiful waterfalls and streams. If you are an ardent admirer of flora and fauna, then the rich biodiversity of the region will surely enthral you. The Sharavathi backwaters are a major treat for your eyes once you reach and is a perfect camping spot for the night. Difficulty Level : Easy - Moderate Duration : 2 days Best Time to Visit : November to May

27. Kudremukh Trek

With the promise of a picturesque view of a mountain in the shape of a horse face, Kudremukh is famous for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. On the trek to Kudremukh peak, there are serene forest trails, tall bamboo shrubs and over a dozen waterfalls to take quick stops at. The final stop is at the peak of Kudremukh from where you can gaze at the picturesque view of the surrounding valley and enjoy the chilly winds brush through your hair. The contrast of the steep drop on one side to the thick green cover on the other will surely amaze you. Difficulty Level: Moderate Duration: 2 days Best Time to Visit : October to March

28. Kodachadri Trek -

The trek to Kodachadri is arguably one of the most sought-after treks of South India. Popular hotspots along this trek are the temples of Adi Shankara and of Sri Mookambika which tourists visit all year round. These temples are blessed by the surroundings of mist and lush forests and pleasant weather. This trek is also unique as it can be undertaken through various paths of varying difficulty. Two of the most important trails are those of Karekatte and Marakuttaka. Karekatte offers a much simpler trek while Marakuttaka is for those who are looking for a challenge. Difficulty Level: Moderate - Difficult Duration: 2 days Best Time to Visit : October to February

29. Antargange Trek

Situated at a distance of sixty kilometres from Bengaluru, the Antargange mountain is a famous trekking and pilgrimage spot. Caving is a popular activity here. Huge boulders and rocks stacked on top of each other and adjacently form a crisscross of mazes which make for some light cave exploration. The Shri Kashi Vishveshwara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated here. Devotees flock to this temple to drink water from the famous pond inside which is believed to have healing properties. In the months of summer, trekking and camping in the night can be done here. This is one of the best treks in South India. Difficulty Level: Easy Duration: 1 day Best Time to Visit : December to February

30. Dzukou Valley Trek

Dzukou Valley is a valley of flowers in the northeastern state of Nagaland. It is arguably one of the most beautiful and untouched locations in India offering spellbinding sights of green rolling hills and carpets of bright flowers. It is located at an altitude of 2452 metres above sea level behind the Japfu peak. The rare Dzukou lily is a much sought after treat by those who come here. Difficulty Level: Difficult Duration: 5 days Best Time to Visit : June till September

Which of these treks in India do you think you will be able to complete? Let us know in the comments below.

This post was published by Surbhi Parashar

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30 best treks in india for the adventure trekking enthusiasts.

‘A mixture of adventure pleasure and self-realization, trekking in India is an experience of a lifetime!’

India offers plenty of opportunities for trekking in the regions through which the majestic Himalayan ranges cross. Trekking as an adventure activity in the Indian Himalayas is really incredible. Where trekking in the Sikkim Himalayas offers you panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, a trek in Ladakh Himalayas brings you face to face with the surreal beauty of the region. Walking on the Zanskar River is thrilling, while visiting its centuries old monasteries is enlightening.

Going on treks across the Kumaon and Garhwal Himalayas combines spirituality with adventure. In some places, you also get to observe the traditional lifestyle of the people while in others, the lesser-trodden routes overwhelm you with their beauty.

Trekking in the Himalayas belt of Himachal Pradesh offers a chance to witness the ancient villages, high passes, and the ethereal natural beauty, making it an experience to remember forever.

If you are an avid trekker, or are planning a hiking & trekking tour in India anytime soon, then check out these best 30 treks in Indian Himalayas for your adventurous holiday trip in 2024.

List of Top 30 Adventure Trekking Places in India for 2024

Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Chadar Trek

Gomukh tapovan trek, markha valley trek.

Kuari Pass Trek

Pin Parvati Pass Trek

Nanda Devi East BC and Milam Glacier
Dzongri-Goecha La Trek

Shepherd Trail Trek

Chopta Chandrashila Trek

Roopkund Trek

Valley of Flowers Trek

Adi Kailash Trek

Auli Gorson Bugyal

Dodital Trek

Tso moriri trek, chenap valley trek, hampta pass trek, kinner kailash trek, green lake trek, rupin pass trek, kedar tal trek, buran ghati trek, pangarchulla trek, bali pass trek, brahmatal trek, har ki dun trek, nag tibba trek, kashmir great lakes trek, also check out.

Top Trekking Destinations in Ladakh
Best Trekking Places in Uttarakhand
Popular Trekking Trails in Himachal
Best Trekking Destinations in Sikkim
Top Trekking Routes in Kashmir

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Region: Sikkim Himalayas

Altitude: 4940m

Duration: 10 days

Season: Mid-March – May, Mid-September – November

Grade: Moderate to Challenging

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of the most thrilling treks in India. Kanchenjunga proclaims its glory at a height of 8586m and as the third highest mountain in the world. Embarking on this trek allows you to enjoy the panoramic views from Frey Peak to Kabru Peak. An 8-day trek, it begins at Yuksom, a sleepy village in West Sikkim.

Along the course of the trek, you are offered the gorgeous views of Rathong River, lovely orchids, rare birds and evergreen fern plantations. The route of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek will also bring you face to face with a famous waterfall at the Paha Khola Bridge.

A major attraction awaits you on the first day at the Prek Chu River. The highlight of this trek, however, is the route that crosses Dzongri. It takes you past the Tshoka hamlet followed by Phedang Pass offering panoramic views of Pandim, Thenchinkhang and Jhuponu Mountains.

Check out: Kachenjunga Base Camp Detailed Trekking Itinerary

Region: Ladakh Himalayas

Altitude: 3850m

Duration: 13 days

Season: Mid-January – February

Walking on the ice-covered river of Zanskar is an ultimate experience for adventurers who are keen to enjoy trekking in the Ladakh Himalayas. This trek is also named as Chadar trek (as Chadar means blanket, and the frozen river acts like a blanket). Spring water prevents this icy blanket from completely smothering the river, which in some places, retains its rapids. The trek goes by shuffling along the Chadar that breaks and changes colour on the river every few hours!

A magnificent and at times challenging trek, Chadar Trek gives opportunities to enjoy a visit to ancient Buddhist monasteries and secluded villages situated in the Trans Zanskar ranges. At places, the Chadar (ice sheet) does not form a cover over the river.

Then, the trekkers have to forge a new trail trekking over snow-covered banks to move down to a spot on the Zanskar river, where the ice is more stable. What sets this trek apart is its matchless experience. Everything about it is exceptional: the panorama, atmosphere, the frozen river, caves, unusual campsites, sledges and the ever changing Chadar.

Check out: Chadar Trek Detailed Itinerary

Region: Garhwal Himalayas

Altitude: 4465m

Duration: 9 Days

Season: May – October

Grade: Moderate

The Gomukh Tapovan Trek can be said to be the best trekking destinations in India, both because of the wonderful sightseeing opportunity it provides and the spiritual significance associated with it. The trek along the holy Bhagirathi River takes the tourist right up to the source of the river which is commonly known as Gomukh (which means the cow of the mouth in local language).

The camp at Tapovan offers some of the rarest sites in the Himalayas i.e. the view of eight enthralling peaks- Bhagirathi I, II, III, Mt. Shivling, Chaturangi, Meru Parvat, Bhirgupanth and Sudarshan. Many other peaks that offer brilliant views of the Gangotri Glacier are also the alluring part of this trek.

Gomukh Tapovan Trek can be undertaken by amateurs, provided they possess the physical fitness. During the course of the trek, you will also come across a huge patch of lush meadow. The towering peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas surroundes Tapovan, which is itself a lush, verdant region. Herds of the blue mountain goats ‘Bharals’, are often spotted here, to the great delight of trekkers.

Check out: Gomukh Tapovan Detailed Itinerary

Altitude: 5150m

Season: Mid-June – Mid-October

One of the most famous treks in Ladakh, Markha Valley’s trekking trail passes through remote mountain passes, sleepy villages, quaint monastic settlements,and pale alpine meadows of Nimaling in the silhouette of Kang Yatze Peak. From this point, trail ascends to the Kongmaru La (the highest point on the trek) with its imposing views of the Karakoram and K2.

One can expect accommodation in the parachute tents at most of the villages on the route, thus making this trek known as a ‘tea house trek’. Apart from the outstanding contrast of trekking in a cold desert valley, tourists also get an arresting view of Zanskar and Ladakh ranges, the Kang Yatze (6400m) and Stok Kangri (6122m).

The route takes the trekker inside the beautiful Hemis National Park and through two passes, Ganda La and Kongmaru La. There are many things about this trek which make it so fascinating like the part of the trek which requires you to cross the Markha River whose waters are waist deep.

Check out: Markha Valley Detailed Trekking Itinerary

Altitude: 4268m

Duration: 9 days

Season: Mid-April – June and September – November

Quite famous among trekking enthusiasts, Kuari Pass Trek offers stunning vistas of the snow-capped peaks of the Greater Himalayan Range. Also named as Lord Curzon’s Trail, the trek goes through the lush valleys, ancient forests, and small villages. On reaching Kuari Pass, the trekker is rewarded with panoramic views of the magnificent peaks of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kamet, Hathi-Ghodi Parvat and Dronagiri.

Check out: Kuari Passs Detailed Itinerary

Region: Himachal Pradesh

Altitude: 5335 mts

Duration: 16 days

Season: Mid-June-Mid October

Grade: Challenging

Pin Parvati Pass Trek falls in tough treks category as one has to walk over the glaciers in the Parvati Valley in Kullu and Pin Valley in Spiti. Starting from Manikaran, this walking & hiking tour passes through several villages, verdant meadows and stunning lakes. As the trekker follows the route upstream of Parvati River, he comes across the glaciers.

It is a sight which remains lodged in your memory for a long time. Before reaching the Spiti Valley, one has to travel through the Pin Parvati Pass, which is the highest point of this trek. Tourist explores Spiti Valley and its monasteries before going back to Manali through Kaza and Rohtang Pass.

Check out: Pin Parvati Detailed Itinerary

Nanda Devi East BC and Milam Glacier Trek

Region: Kumaon Himalayas

Altitude: 4670m

Season: May – Mid-October

This is a wonderful trek in Kumaon Himalayas which explores the fascinating Nanda Devi East Base Camp and astounding Milam Glacier . Kumaon Himalayas is an eye-catching region of the Indian Himalayas which forms the borders with Nepal in the western end. This mountain range is also home to Nanda Devi (7,816m), which is its highest peak. This part of the Himalayas has fascinated many explorers and mountaineers, with the majority of them drawn to its mysterious aura and the tales surrounding it.

This trek, counted among the best treks in India, passes along the Gori Ganga ravine to the village of Milam and then goes to the East Base Camp. The trail enters one of the most impressive mountain areas of the Himalayas nearby Nanda Devi and the adjoining peaks.

Check out: Nanda Devi Eat BC Detailed Itinerary

Dzongri – Goecha La Trek

Season: Mid-March – June and September – Mid-November

There are many reasons behind the Dzongri-Goecha La Trek being one of the most exciting treks in India. The trek begins from the town of Yuksom, a place famous for its historical significance. Here, you get an opportunity to explore the traditional culture and lifestyle of the people. Another thing which captures your attention is the unique style of wooden fencing which is aesthetically pleasing.

Since the trek follows the route through the Sikkim Himalayas, you are treated to breathtaking views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Tufts of clouds conceal its peaks at times, and brings them out into open view at others, as if its beauty were meant to be admired in stages. At the foothills, vast expanses of lush meadows stretch themselves out in leisure.

What sights are these, and what calming effects they have on the mind! You are also treated to views of Mt. Pandim and Mt. Kabru. Most of all, this trek offers you the luxury of being alone in the company of nature, even as you pass through oak plantations, fields with dancing wild flowers and rhododendron forests.

Check out: Dzongri Goecha La Detailed Trekking Itinerary

Altitude: 4450 mts

The Shepherd’s Trail Trek is famous, among other things, for taking you to the distant and secluded villages in Himachal Pradesh, which are open only four to five months in a year. The Shepherd Trail Trek crosses over Dhauladhar Mountain Ranges. ‘Hanuman Ka Tibba’ or ‘White Mountain’ (5639m), located just behind Dharamshala Town, is the highest peak in this range.

The trek begins from the outskirts of Manali and ends at shepherd’s village of Bara Bhangal, situated on the banks of Ravi, one of the main rivers flowing out of these mountains. The forest of Birch and Rhododendron pave the way to the mountain pass after which a descent directs you to an exquisite walk through the verdant forests and over the debris of glaciers.

Check out: Shepherd’s Trail Trek Detailed Itinerary

Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek

Altitude: 3962m

Duration: 5 days

Season: March – June and September – December

There are many reasons behind the Chopta Chandrashila Trek being one of the most famous high-altitude treks in North India. It is one of those treks which can be undertaken throughout the year. During the course of this trek, trekkers are treated to 360° views of various Himalayan peaks like Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi and Trishul.

One can also get to view the beauty of the alpine vegetation, for which this region is so famous. There are two to three routes which are suggested as the starting point for Chandrashila Trek. The highlight of the trek is when you go past the 1000-year-old Tungnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located at a height of almost 3048m, Tungnath Temple is renowned for being the highest Lord Shiva Temple in the world.

Check out: Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Detailed Itinerary

Altitude: 5029m

Duration: 8 days

Season: April – June

Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, the Roopkund Trek is one of the most popular treks in Uttarakhand. There are few places as mysterious, and thrilling, as Roopkund in Uttarakhand. It is famous for its five hundred skeletons which are found at its edge. These human skeletons are believed to date back to the Palaeolithic Age. For this reason, it is called the Mystery Lake.

Several routes are followed to reach Roopkund, with the most common among these being that which passes through Lohajung. The route takes you past meadows, waterfalls and places such as Bedni Bugyal. A particularly fascinating part of the trek is the climb to the snow-covered mountain of Chang Ma. Once you reach the lake, you are immediately struck by its beauty.

Check out: Roopkund Trek Detailed Itinerary

Altitude: 4389m

Duration: 7 days

Season: Mid-July – Mid-August

The Valley of Flowers, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overlooked by the magnificent Zanskar ranges, this region boasts more than 300 kinds of alpine flowers, besides a biodiversity which has remained relatively untouched. The Valley of Flowers is a part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.

The best time for visiting it is the monsoon season, because this is when the flowers are in full bloom. The trek for Valley of Flowers begins from Ghangaria. The highlight of the trip is when you reach the Valley of Flowers, which is clothed in the most colourful flowers belonging to different species and varieties. Some of the most commonly spotted flowers in this region are marigold, poppies, daisies and primulas. The park is also home to several kinds of medicinal plants and a few endangered animals.

Check out: Valley of Flowers Detailed Trekking Itinerary

Altitude: 6191 m

Duration: 12 days

Season: June – October

The Adi Kailash Trek is a religious trek which takes you in the heart of the Kumaon Himalayas making it amongst 10 of the best hiking destinations in India. Standing at an elevation of 6310m in the district of Pithoragarh, it bears a close resemblance to the holy Mt. Kailash in Tibet, thus getting its name as Adi Kailash or Chhota Kailash. The trek is certainly not easy and requires some kind of experience in trekking. It commences from Tawaghat, which can be reached by road from Darchula.

The trek route covers the area of Lamari, Budhi, Nabhi, Nampha, Kutti, Jyollingkong, Nabidhang, and Kala Pani. At Gunji, the route splits into two, trekkers can choose to take a detour and first witness Om Parvat. During the course of the trek, one also gets an opportunity to admire the magnificent mountain ranges of Annapurna, Kali River, forests and the famous Narayana Ashram. The trek takes you to Kali Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Kali. The famous water bodies in this area are Parvati Sarovar, Gauri Kund and Aachri Tal.

Check out: Adi Kailash Detailed Trekking Itinerary

Season: June – May

The Auli Gorson Bugyal Trek is one of the most famous treks in Uttarakhand. The trek takes you past the most beautiful places in the Garhwal Himalayas region. In the summer season, you go past meadows where small colourful flowering plants dance vigorously in the wind and delight your mind. The alpine forests with trees like deodar and oak are pleasing to the eyes and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the place in a big way.

While the route of the trek is dotted with bright and impressive flowers in summers, it gets covered in ice in winter, making it slightly difficult to trek, but all the more beautiful. In fact, it is this rapid change in its landscape that makes Auli Gorson Bugyal Trek such a highly sought after tourist destination in Uttarakhand.

Check out: Auli Gorson Bugyal Trek Detailed Itinerary

Altitude: 3085 m

Located at an altitude of 3310m above sea level, Dodital is one of the most beautiful treks in North India. It is named after the rare Himalayan trout, which is known as Dodi in the local language. Dodital Trek starts from a small and sleepy village called Sangam Chati. This is followed by a steep climb all the way to Agoda settlement. An enjoyable experience during the trek is camping, which is done in close proximity to the rivulet at Bhebra.

As you pass the rhododendron, oak, bamboo and pine forests, the beauty of the surrounding landscape gradually unfolds before your eyes. The mind delights at the sounds of the birds chirping and the sights of valleys in the distance. The trek also gives you a dash of adrenaline, if adventure is what you seek.

The trekking trail also takes you past a steep ridge and brings you quite close to the Himalayan Ranges. Once you reach the Dodital Lake and its mesmerizing beauty, you realize that every part of this difficult trek was completely worth it. The pure blue and silent waters of the Dodital Lake play a large part in lending tranquillity to the surroundings.

If you are attracted to avi fauna, you will find much to celebrate here. Some of the variety of birds which you can expect to see during the course of this trek are Grey Tit, Himalayan Babbler, Brown Fronted Woodpecker, Red Billed Blue Magpie and Bush Robin.

Check out: Dodital Trek Detailed Itinerary

Altitude: 4595 m

Duration: 11 days

Season: Mid-June – September

Tso Moriri Lake Trek is a thrilling trek to one of the highest altitude lakes in the trans-Himalayan region in India. The lake, located at an altitude of 4594m, is fringed by Ladakh to the north, Tibet to the east and Zanskar to the west. Trekking to this one of the most beautiful places in India, also promises to be a thrilling affair. Apart from witnessing the incredible beauty of the region, you also get to admire the various species of Himalayan mammals.

The route for the trek covers several mountain passes, one of which is Tanglang La, situated at an altitude of 5332m. Another fascinating place which it covers is Horlamkongkala, located at an altitude of 4900m. The route further makes it way towards Yalungnyaula, seated at an altitude of 5440m approx.

From here, you are treated to the incredible views of Lake Moriri. This promises to be one of the most beautiful sights during the trek. It is hardly surprising then, that this trek attracts people from all parts of the world. This thrilling trekking trail also lets you explore the Chang Thang region, the high altitude plateau.

Check out: Tso Moriri Lake Trek Detailed Itinerary

Altitude: 2050 m

Season: June – September

This trek is great for those who love the company of nature along with the solitude that comes with it. The Chenap Valley Trek takes you to the ephemeral beauty of Chenap Lake, located in the Chenab Valley of Uttarakhand. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Uttarakhand. It is also one of the treks which lets you explore the beauty of the alpine region. Counted among the best treks in India, there are many reasons which endears it to trekkers.

The trekking route takes you past the village of Chai, which wins the heart of visitors by its splendid beauty and isolation. A particularly delightful part of the tour is when your eyes are treated to the magnificent beauty of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot and Dronagiri.

The trek also lets you enjoy the floral beauty of this region, with flowers like orchids, marigold and daisies being the prominent among them. The highlight of the trek is when you reach Dhar Kharak, the valley is seen clothed with almost 500 species of flowers, along with several varieties of medicinal plants.

Check out: Chenap Valley Detailed Trekking Itinerary

Region: Pir Panjal Range

Altitude: 4270m

Season: September – Mid-October

Hampta Pass Trek is one of the highly sought after treks in North India. This trek is all about experiencing the beauty of the region. Wide green pastures, glacial valleys and lofty mountains, these are some of the faces of nature that this trek introduces you to.

During a certain point in the trek, you will be able to enjoy the spectacular views of Lahaul and Spiti valleys as well as the mountain ranges of Spiti and Pir Panjal. This trek also offers you adventure in good measure, as you get a chance to camp at Chandratal, the Moon Lake.

Hampta Pass is at an altitude of 4270m and stretches across the Pir Panjal Range in the Himalayas. The landscape here is such that it compels you to stare at it until you are lost in a train of thoughts, and that’s certainly one of the reasons why it is so popular among international tourists.

Slopes of mountains extend gracefully to meet the meadow below. Throughout the course of the trek, the fabulous views of the snow-capped Dhauladhar Peaks remain with you, while the gentle murmurs of the streams and rivulets reach your ears. If nature’s beauty is what you seek, then you will get that in abundance here.

Check out: Hampta Pass Trek Detailed Itinerary

Region: Kinnaur Kailash Range

Altitude: 5242m

Season: July – September

Grade: Difficult

Mt. Kinner Kailash is situated almost 6050m, and the Kinner Kailash trek is counted among the best treks in the Himalayas. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva from where he exercises control over the universe. It holds immense religious significance for the Hindus because of the enormous Shiva Lingam which is the representation of Lord Shiva.

The rock formation is about 24m in height. The colour of the Shivalinga changes as the day passes. Devotees to this place start their trek from Tangling Village and get back to Sangla Valley. One can also visit Chitkul, the last inhabited village of India on Indo-Tibetan Border.

Check out: Kinner Kailash Detailed Itinerary

Region: North Sikkim Himalayas

Altitude: 5050m

Season: Mid-April & Mid-October

There are not many places where you can still see the raw beauty of nature. But North Sikkim is one such place, and the Green Lake Trek takes you to this part of the country whose charm lies in its untouched beauty. The landscape here is dotted with icy lake, mountains, colourful meadows and dense forests. The trek is named after the Green Lake, which offers incredible views of Mt. Kanchenjunga along with other majestic peaks.

Along the course of the trek, you will be taken to incredible sight of Phodong Monastery, Kabi Longstok, Mangan, Changthang & Lachen. An especially beautiful trail is the one from Zema to Talem. The entire route is dotted with boulders and thick rhododendron forests. The most fascinating part of this trek is the Icy Green Lake Trek, which takes you all the way up to the Green Lake, and treats you to views of Simvo, Twin Peaks, Siniolchu and Nepal Peaks.

Check out: Green Lake Detailed Trekking Itinerary

Region: Garhwal Himalayas and Kinner Kailash Range

Altitude: 4657m

Season: May-June and September-October

Grade: Moderate – Difficult

A crossover trek which starts from Dhaula in Uttarakhand and ends in Sangla in Himachal Pradesh, Rupin Pass is one classic trek in India. Popular amongst the trekkers for being full of surprises, the Rupin River being one, this trek in India is graded as moderate to difficult. The trekking trail of Rupin Pass crosses through glacial valleys and meadows, snow fields and bridges, and numerous waterfalls.

The major highlight of this top trek is the crossing of Rupin Pass through a 4687m high gully. After the arduous climb to the pass, one is rewarded with the view of the lush meadow of Sangla Kanda and the Kinner Kailash Mountain Range.

Check out: Rupin Pass Trek Detailed Itinerary

Altitude: 4719m

Duration: 7 Days

Kedar Tal Trek in Uttarakhand is for seasoned trekkers who are looking for some more adventure. Situated at a height of 4719m, Kedar tal is a delight to witness with its colour changing to blue, emerald, grey, depending on the weather. The trail to Kedar tal offers views of famous Himalayan mountain peaks like Mt Thalaysagar, Mt Bhrigupanth, Manda Parvat, Mt Jogin, and Mt Gangotri.

One has the opportunity to camp almost at the feet of Mt. Thalaysagar and Bhrigupanth. The challenging trek starts with climbing from 3352m (Gangtori) to 4800m (Kedar Kharak) in the course of 3-4 days. One has to navigate steep ascents and descents and climb boulders. This trail that is high on adventure also has patches of meadows and that of forests. The campsite of Kedar Kharak is itself quite a reward for the trekkers during this trek in Uttarakhand.

Check out: Kedar Tal Trek Detailed Itinerary

Region: Pabbar Valley

Altitude: 4572

Duration: 8 Days

Grade: Moderate to Difficult

This trek in Himachal Pradesh is inarguably one of the best treks in India. Buran Ghati Trek that starts from Janglik offers uninterrupted views of lush Dayara meadows right after one traverses a fascinating stretch of forest. One can also experience the Himalayan culture in villages of Janglik and Barua that have ancient wooden houses done in Kinnaur architecture style. The locals here are hospitable and would be welcoming you to their house for a cup of tea.

The highlight of Buran Ghati Trek is pass crossing. The narrow ledge (pass) has a sharp 100m drop on the other side of it. In summer months, one has to rappel, followed by sliding down through one of the five snow slides. In autumn months, one has to descend through a trail. If you are looking for a summer or autumn trek, Buran Ghati makes for the perfect choice.

Check out: Popular Trekking Peaks in Himachal Pradesh

Altitude: 4593 m

Season: April

A summit trek, Pangarchulla is everything that gets one’s adrenaline going. Pangarchulla Trek in Garhwal Himalayas is classified as a difficult trek, and thus, require great deal of physical fitness. One has to cover the elevation of 2103m to 4574m over the course of three days.

This trek begins from Dhak and is best done in the winter months till April. When the trail is covered in snow, one has to carve the way using ice axe, and after April when the snow starts to melt, trekkers have to walk for hours on boulder section.

Check out: Pangarchulla Trek Detailed Itinerary

Altitude: 4939m

Season: June and September

A perfect trek to relish the grandeur of Garhwal Himalayas, Bali Pass Trek is the ultimate rendezvous with nature and adventure. Beginning from the scenic Sankri Village, the trekking trail goes through the Ruinsara Valley and the lush meadows of Devsu Thach. It also passes through the confluence of Tons and Ruinsara rivers.

Bali Pass lies at an elevation of 4939m, and offers incredible views of Bandarpoonch, Kalanag and Swargarohini peaks. The trekkers also have the opportunity to witness ancient and beautiful Himalayan villages of Gangad and Osla during their Bali Pass Trek.

Check out: Bali Pass Trek Detailed Itinerary

Region: Brahmatal Trek

Altitude: 12, 250 ft

Duration: 6 days

Season: December – February

Grade: Easy to Moderate

Brahmatal trek will give you the chance to see gorgeous Frozen Alpine Lake at an elevation of 12, ooo ft. The pristine waters of the lake, alluring and soothing Shrine besides the lake and mesmerizing Mt. Trishul and Mt Nandaghunti. Just imagine camping beside this lake, the experience and views you will get is out of the world.

Brahmatal Lake Trek is specially for those people who love lakes. Apart from the delightful Brahmatal Lake, Bekaltal is one of the most beautiful sights you can ever behold. During winters, you will get to see the beautiful snowfall and Rhododendron and Oak Forest walks, the twisted turns, enchanting meadows that will teleport you to the garden of Eden and the crystal-clear waters amidst the vast meadows makes Brahmatal Trek one of the most popular treks to do in India.

Some Trekking Tips Which Would be Useful

To make the most of your adventure outdoors, it would be useful to follow these trekking tips.

Begin Your Training for Trekking Early

Ask any experienced trekker and he will tell you that it is never too early to start preparing yourself for a trekking tour. The preparation involves not just physical but also mental toughness. Start building your strength and fitness step by step, giving your body enough time to rest, relax and adapt.

Do not try to do too much at once, because doing so puts unnecessary pressure on your body. This way, you will gain the required fitness without putting yourself up for injury.

Always Select the Right Footwear

It is extremely important to select the appropriate footwear for your trek, if you want to make the most of it. Always go for a standard hiking shoe which will provide protection to your ankles. Pay specific attention to the ankle cuffs while buying a shoe.

If they are too high, they made cause irritation to the achilles tendon located at the base of your calf. It is best to go for an ankle cuff that is placed at the back. Make sure you are acclimatized to your trekking shoes before in hand so that they don’t cause blisters during the trek itself.

Strengthen Your Legs by Visiting the Gym

Trekking requires you to walk a lot and have strong cardiovascular fitness. It is extremely important to have strong legs. Without them, you cannot expect to complete or even enjoy your treks. Ideally, you should begin your leg training months before the actual trek itself.

Apart from walking, you can visit the gym and perform a variety of other exercises that impart strength to your legs like weighted squats, leg presses, bodyweight squats and lunges. When combined, these exercises work all the parts of your legs and lend them strength and endurance, both of which are essential components in trekking.

It is Helpful to Use Walking Poles During Trekking

Using walking poles is one of the most important things to do while trekking. Doing so brings about a massive difference to your overall trekking experience. Because they are lightweight and telescopic, they reduce the pressure on your knees significantly and also endow you with two extra legs (if you can call them that) especially during steep climbs.

Their benefits however, are not just limited to walking. They can also be used to clear any dense vegetation creating a hurdle in your path, besides being put to different uses in a campsite. Walking poles are definitely something you would not want to miss.

Practice Walking with Your Backpack

Your backpack will be your constant companion during your trekking holiday. You will have to get used to it, and a great way of doing that is using your loaded backpack as part of your training program until you get used its weight and position on your body.

It is also important to select the right kind of model. Go for one which allows adjustable chest and waist straps so that it can be perfectly placed on your back. Backpacks having external compression straps are also important as they don’t allow the load to shift to one side of the body.

Make Water Your Friend and Always Stay Hydrated

As obvious as it sounds, trekkers often forget to follow this simple rule. It hardly matters whether you live in a hot or cool climate. The amount of fluids required by your body will increase by a large percentage while trekking, as you lose a great amount of sweat. It is said that you should never reach the stage where you feel thirsty while trekking.

If that happens, it means you are probably dehydrated and your body has been craving liquids for a long time. What you should do is to always remain hydrated and drink water at regular intervals. One way of determining if you are dehydrated is taking the urine test. A pale straw color is a sign that you are properly hydrated while anything darker means that you need to increase your water intake.

Some Tips for Responsible Trekking

These are some of the tips which should be followed by every responsible trekker.

Don’t leave garbage behind you

One of the foremost responsibilities of a trekker is that he cares for his environment as much as his happiness. You should, as a responsible trekker, always remember to clean your environment after you in the same condition as you found it. While items like soda cans and food wrappers are enormously harmful to the environment, cigarette buds and toilet paper are equally harmful.

Always carry a trash bag with you to dispose any leftover products as well as reusable containers which can be put to multiple purposes. In cases where you don’t have access to camp toilets, waste should be safely buried in a hole and then covered properly.

Respect the local culture

As a trekker, you should always the local customs and traditions of any country, region or area. Though they may be fascinating to you, the local people take them as seriously as you would your own. If you want to take photographs, it is always advised to seek their permission, and accept their refusal politely if they choose to do so. You should never distribute gifts and other items to the local people as this can encourage begging and increase the distance between locals and tourists.

Enjoy sightseeing, but responsibly

It is always important to respect the local traditions and laws of the land while enjoying sightseeing or visiting places which are considered sacred by locals. There are rules and regulations while visiting some places, especially religious sites.

If a place requires you to cover yourself with a scarf, do so. If at another place, you are required to remove your footwear, do so without asking any questions. While flouting some of the rules may be disrespectful in some countries, it may get you arrested in others. Enjoy sightseeing, but do so with pleasure.

“ For Adventure Tours & Trekking holidays in Garhwal, Kumaon, Ladakh, Sikkim & Himachal Pradesh call us at +91-9212553109”.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what are the things to carry on a trek in the indian himalayas.

On an Indian Himalayan trek, it is best advised to carry fewer but warm clothes irrespective of which season you are trekking. Good trekking pants and terrain-wise shoes are also very important for a comfortable trekking experience. Sunglasses, Suncap, Synthetic hand gloves, fleece or woollen hand gloves, woollen cap, headlamp/LED torch and trekking pole are some of the items which you must-carry on a trek.

Q. Which are the best beginner & family treks in India?

The best treks for beginner & family in India are:

Chopta Chandrashila

Q. What are the most difficult treks in India?

Some of the most difficult treks in India are:

Pangarchulla
Buran Ghati

Q. What are the best summer treks in India?

Some of the best summer treks in India are:

Nanda Devi East Base Camp

Q. What are some of the best monsoon treks in India?

Some of the best monsoon treks in India are:

Valley of Flowers
Kinner Kailash

Q. Which are the best winter treks in India?

Some of the best winter treks in India are:

Q. Which is the highest peak in India and which trek can give us its best view?

The highest peak in India is Kanchenjunga (8586m), which is situated on Indo-Nepal border. The best trek to witness it, is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. The highest peak which is completely inside India is Nanda Devi (7816m). Nanda Devi East Base Camp trek gives the best view of Nanda Devi peak.

Q. What are some high altitude lake treks in India?

Some of the high-altitude lake treks in India are:

Roopkund Lake, Uttarakhand (5,029m)
Green Lake, Sikkim (4,935m)
Kedar Tal, Uttarakhand (4750m)
Tso Moriri, Ladakh (4595m)

Published: 05 Feb, 2021 | Last Updated: 05 Feb, 2024

About the author

Nidhi Singh

From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter , Facebook & Instagram .

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Winter Treks in India: 5 Himalayan Treks to do in 2021
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8 Best Winter Treks in India (December, January and February)
Brahmatal Trek. Deoriatal - Chandrashila Trek. Kedarkantha. Sandakphu - Phalut. Kuari Pass. Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek. Manali Kaisdhar Hike. H imalayan winter treks are truly nature's gift to mankind. Even the toughest of trails feels like a walk in paradise, thanks to the majestic snow-covered landscape.
Top Winter Treks in India
Best Winter Treks in India. Winter Treks offer abundance when it comes to quiet, expansive snowscapes. Trekkers often lose the sense of time, while treading the footsteps left in the snow. ... The trek also lets you visit Auli, a famous skiing destination. "What mesmerised me was the pure white carpet of snow that covered every inch of what ...
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9 Nights / 10 Days Hampta Pass Trek. 4 Nights / 5 Days Trekking in Himalayas. 23 Nights / 24 Days Dharamshala Trekking Tour. 6 Nights / 7 Days. Wake up the adventurer in you and embark on one of the popular winter treks in India.
12 winter treks in India that promise stunning views
The best winter treks in India Triund Trek, Himachal Pradesh. Photo: Yashas Garg/Indiahikes. Duration: 2 days; Level: Easy; Highest point: 2,827m; Starting point: Dharamkot. ... The Markha Valley expedition is one of Ladakh's most famous summer treks due to its close proximity to Leh. But if a quiet getaway and the chance of spotting the ...
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Difficulty: Difficult. Maximum Altitude: 11,950 ft. Duration: 7 Days. 10. Chadar Trek, Ladakh. Source. Chadar trek offers the most unique trekking experience of all the Himalayan treks in India. On the top of the trekking list of adrenaline-junkies, walking on the frozen Zanskar River tests your fitness and willpower.
12 Amazingly Best Winter Treks in India
Trek # 1 Chadar Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Extreme Time Required: 9 to 10 days Area: Zaskar, Ladakh. Closest City/Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh. Chadar Trek, also known as the 'Frozen River Trek' in Zanskar Range is the most highly applauded winter trek in the country.
18 Best Treks for Winter Season in India Himalayas
If a hiking adventure is something you are looking for this upcoming winter, here is a detailed list of the 18 best winter treks in India that promise a perfect package of excitement, adventure and a memorable holiday experience. List of 18 Best Treks for Winter Season in the Himalayas. Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek. Dodital Winter Trek.
Best Winter Treks In India
Best Winter Treks In India. Kedarkantha Peak Trek. Brahmatal Trek. Dayara Bugyal Trek. Sandakphu Trek. Chopta Chandrashila Trek. Winter Kuari Pass Trek. Chadar Frozen River Trek. Winter has always been a sign of epic adventure, the snow-clad mountains are a great way to test your endurance and to boost our spirits.
7 Best Winter Treks In India For Those Who Love Snowclad ...
1. Explore the virgin peak at Kuari Pass. Trek start point: Auli. Number of days: 6 days. Why this trek: The Kuari Pass trek is located in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and the magical route takes you through the scenic views of the bugyals (meadows) of Garhwal and is one of the most popular winter treks in India. Gorson, Chitrakantha and Khullara are some of the stunning campsites on this ...
Best winter treks in India 2021-22
Kedarkantha trek: Departure dates: Every weekend from beginning of December to end of January. 6 days and 5 nights, Dehradun to Dehradun. Kedarkantha: Most popular winter trek in India (PC - Abhijit Mitra) This relatively soft trail is a short hike to the peak called Kedarkantha only 10 odd Km from Sankri.
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It's not surprising that India has a lot for trekkers and adventure lovers whether it's summer or winter. Trekking is a bit difficult in the winter season and the trekkers face a variety of challenges. The magnificent Himalayan mountain and valley of two beautiful states of the country i.e Uttarakhand and Himachal are very famous among adventurers when it comes to winter trekking.If you are ...
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Fortunately, India is blessed with the impressive Himalayas that offers you ample opportunity to trek. Chadar Trek in Zanskar, Kedarkantha Trek, Friendship Trek, expedition, Dodital trek, and Dayara Bugyal Trek are some of the most exciting and preferred adventure holidays one can plan during the winter months. Read more.
22 Of the Absolute Best Treks in India
The 42 km round trip trek begins just near the famous Gangotri Mandir and takes trekkers to the very start of the Ganges River: the Gaumukh glacier. ... The trek usually takes place in the month of January or Feburary, and is one of if not THE best winter treks in India. Five days of walking in the freezing cold on snow/ice, four nights of ...
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Trek Duration: 12 Days/11 Nights Trek Distance: 130 km Difficulty: Difficult Best Time: April to early June and September to mid-December 4. Goechala Trek: Nestled at an altitude of 16,207 ft, the Goecha La trek offers an intimate encounter with the third-highest peak, Mt. Kanchenjunga, fulfilling the dreams and desires of numerous adventure enthusiasts. . Enveloped by enchanting flora and ...
20 Winter Treks In Himalayas To Challenge The Adventurer in You In 2023
Prashar Lake Trek is toutted as one of the top short duration winter treks in Himalayas. Snuggled in the valley of the Dhauladhar range, the range runs through dense forests of pine alongwith spectacular vistas of snow-clad mountains Also, This trek is is ideal for a long weekend! Altitude: 2750 m. Duration: 2 Days.
Winter Trekking
With Tour My India as your adventure partner, winter trekking in India becomes even more thrilling and adventurous. Know More About Winter Trekking in India. 10 Best Treks Winter Treks to Do in India in 2021. View Packages. 5 Nights - 6 Days. Kedar Kantha Trek. Garhwal. 3850 mts 32 Km. View Packages. 8 Nights - 9 Days. Kuari Pass Trek.
Best Winter Treks in India, Himalayas 2023
The Best Winter Treks in India. by travelworldplanet updated on January 16, 2023 September 15, ... There's a reason why so many people love Chadar Trek and it's because of the famous, frozen Zanskar River - which is why it's a popular winter trek. It's not the easiest trek to get past and it can get really, really cold! However, the ...
The best winter treks in India
The best winter treks in India. Dec 28, 2020. ... Popularly known as the Queen of Winter Treks, it is a popular choice among the adventure seekers. The alluring campsites, along with the scenic ...
Winter treks in India that are perfect for adventure lovers!
The Chadar Trek is a unique experience. Imagine walking on the frozen Zanskar River, sounds magical! It's considered one of the most adventurous winter treks in India.
10 Treks To Go On In Northeast India
Sandakphu Trek, West Bengal/Sikkim. This moderate trek covers approximately 80 km over 7-8 days and is famous for its 360-degree view of the world's tallest peaks, including Everest and Kanchenjunga. The route passes through charming villages, lush forests, and blooming rhododendron bushes. Views along the Sandakphu trek | Shutterstock.
30 Treks in India
4. Kedarkantha Trek - Of the Moderately Difficult Treks in India. 3.5 /5. Situated in the lap of mountains of the Tons River Valley, Kedarkantha is a stunning place offering an easy, classic trek in India. It is a lovely ridge peak accessible throughout the year with a plethora of rewarding adventures.
30 Best Treks in India for the Adventure Trekking Enthusiasts
Region: Sikkim Himalayas. Altitude: 4940m. Duration: 10 days. Season: Mid-March - May, Mid-September - November. Grade: Moderate to Challenging. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of the most thrilling treks in India. Kanchenjunga proclaims its glory at a height of 8586m and as the third highest mountain in the world.

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Trek # 1 Chadar Trek

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Trek # 6 Dayara Bugyal Trek

Trek # 7 Rupin Pass Trek

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Trek # 11 Hampta Pass trek

Trek # 12 Sethan dome trek

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7 Upcoming Winter Treks In India If You Love Chasing Snow And Sun Burn

What's so special about winter treks in India, you ask.

Here's everything you need to know about the upcoming winter treks in India and this is just the right time to plan it all.

1. Explore the virgin peak at Kuari Pass

2. Trek to the Valley of Gods at Har Ki Dun

3. Experience the holy grail of Indian trekking with the Sandakphu – Phalut Trek

4. Get the best of this year's winters on the Brahmatal Trek

5. Trek to the Garhwal Himalayan Mountains on the Kedarkantha Trail

6. Go for your first trek at Nag Tibba

7. Trek to the hidden Parashar Lake in Kullu Valley

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