Winter Treks in Uttarakhand: Best Snowy Trails in the Himalayas

The winter treks in Uttarakhand, are not a mere trek, but a journey that will make you feel nervous in the beginning, will throw challenges in front of you, then the hard goosebumps but will end up rewarding you with magical feelings and whispering views of winter wonderland. Despite shivering due to the cold winds from the Himalayas, making sounds by grinding teeth, and feeling numbness in your soles, you will still wish to hike for anonymous hours on those snow covered trails, passing through snow laden forests, surrounded by snowy landscapes and providing mesmerizing views of snow-clad mountains.

To make you feel like walking in a paradise, here we have organized the best snow treks in Uttarakhand. The below-given treks in December are perfect for those who are physically and mentally fit and have an adventurous spirit. Whether you are a nature lover or adventure enthusiast, these trails will provide you with a thrilling and enjoyable experience of trekking in winter.

So, Let’s contribute to your bucket list of holiday packages for this winter season—whether it’s for Christmas and New Year plans in December or a thrilling experience of snow adventures—here are some of the best trekking spots in winter to add on. These treks will surely fill you with excitement as you walk over the snowy trails!

List of 8 Best Winter Treks in Uttarakhand

Here are the 8 best winter treks in Uttarakhand. The below sections will give you wholesome information about each trek.

1. Dayara Bugyal Winter Trek

Trekking Distance	10 km (one way)
Package Cost	INR 6,000 per person (transport included from Dehradun to Dehradun)
Duration	4D/3N
Max Altitude	3,688m (12,100ft)
Average Temperature	11° to -4°C
Hiking Difficulty	Easy to Moderate
Nearest Hospital	Hospital PHC Bhatwadi, Uttarkashi
Basecamp	Raithal or Barsu Village

The Dayara Bugyal trek is nestled in the Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. This trek is highly considered to be one of the perfect treks for beginners. Once you begin your hike to its top point, you’ll be blown away by the mesmerizing view of the snow-covered mountains of the Garhwal region, such as Gangotri I, Janoli, DKD, Mt. Srikanth, Black Peak and Mt Bandarpunch. For being a winter Trek, there are often snow-laden trails that take you through the splendid thick forests of Deodar and Rhododendrons. The high altitude meadows of Dayara Bugyal trek turns into a snowy landscape covered with a white snow blanket.

The trek starts from the Raithal Village and includes a gradual ascent of a 10 km long trail, if defined with perfect planning, it takes 2-3 to reach Dayara. It is an easy to moderate-level trek and can easily be trekked by children. With a huge snow expanse underneath your feet, this trek will leave you with a lifetime memory. 

2. Kedarkantha Winter Trek

Trekking Distance	20 km
Package Cost	INR 8,000 per person (transport included from Dehradun to Dehradun)
Duration	5D/4N
Max Altitude	3,810m (12,500 ft)
Average Temperature	15° to -10°C
Hiking Difficulty	Easy to Moderate
Nearest Hospital	Government Hospital, Mori
Basecamp	Sankri Village

The Kedarkantha Trekking is a 5-6 day trek with a summit climb that can be done by beginners and first-time trekkers. It is located in the Uttarkashi district, within the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park and takes you to the maximum altitude of 12,500 ft above sea level. Being one of the top winter adventures, it offers rewarding views from the top of the mountain such as the wonderful landscapes, the astonishing views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks including Mt Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Mt Bandarpunch, and the snow laden forests of Oak and pine trees that are lined beautifully along the trail.

This trek is 20 km long in distance and commences right from the picturesque Sankri village. The best time to do this trek is from December to March. December, when the snowfall begins, is the perfect time to witness the snowfall. The cheerful snowy climate and weather on Kedarkantha remains until March. The trek, with its spellbinding beauty and easy-to-follow route, attracts most explorers, families, and friends. 

3. Chopta Chandrashila Trek

Trekking Distance	7-8 km (One Way)
Package Cost	INR 8,000 per person (transport included from Rishikesh to Rishikesh)
Duration	4D/3N
Max Altitude	3,658 m (12,000ft)
Average Temperature	15° to -8°C
Hiking Difficulty	Easy
Nearest Hospital	Primary Health Centre
Basecamp	Chopta

Chandrashila Peak, meaning ‘Moon Rock,’ is famous for the winter trek known as the ‘Chopta Chandrashila Trek.’ This trek includes a visit to Tungnath Temple, the highest and among the Panch Kedar temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. This winter Trek also serves as an ideal and the easiest trek for beginners as it consists of no steep climbs, rough terrains, and no history of flood or any natural hazard has been ever recorded.

In the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, the Chardrashila trek is located in Chopta (186 km from Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun). You will have a great 7-8 km trekking experience to reach the summit from its base camp Chopta. The trail to the peak is blanketed in snow, with serene winter landscapes, and the silent embrace of snow-covered Deodar & Rhododendron forests.

On arriving at its highest point, the 360-degree view of the Himalayan ranges, the richness of the valley, and the snow-capped vistas of peaks such as Nanda Devi, Trishul, and others will instantly captivate your heart.

4. Brahmatal Winter Trek 

Trekking Distance	13.5 Km (One way)
Average Package Cost	INR 6,000 to INR 11,000
Duration	7-8 days
Max Altitude	3,734m (12,250ft)
Average Temperature	10°to -5°C
Hiking Difficulty	Moderate
Nearest Hospital	Government Hospital
Basecamp	Lohajung

The Brahmatal trek is a trek to a lake which is situated in the shadow of Mt Trishul at a high altitude of 3,733 m. The trek starts from Lohajung and the trail till the very last point of Bekaltal, you will walk through the centuries-old oak and Rhododendrons forest. This nature walk will provide tranquility to your soul that you might be missing in urban life. As soon as you reach the highest point of the summit, the enthralling beauty of the Himalayan meadows and the stunning views of other mountain peaks such as Nanda Ghunti,  Bethartoli, Gorson Bugyal, Pangarchulla Peak and more.

About Brahmatal, is a frozen lake that sits amidst the snowy meadow. Because of its high elevation, it remains frozen for most of the year, and that’s what attracts the trekkers more. The trek is about 15 km and would take 5-6 days to complete.

5. Kuari Pass Trek

Trekking Distance	25 km
Average Package Cost	INR 8,000 to INR 13,000
Duration	6-7 days
Max Altitude	3,658m (12,000ft)
Average Temperature	10° to 5°C
Hiking Difficulty	Moderate
Nearest Hospital	District Hospital
Basecamp	Joshimath

The trek to Kuari Pass is among the favorite retreats for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. It offers a breathtaking view of the biggest Himalayan mountains in India. The front face of the Nanda Devi Peak, India’s 2nd highest mountain, is also visible from here. Besides, the Dronagiri, Kamet, Hathi Godha Parbat, and sun other popular peaks can also be seen. The trek to Kuari Pass starts from Rishikesh and throughout your journey, there are majestic sceneries. 

The Kuari pass trek, also known as the Curzon trail, is nestled in the Chamoli district of Garhwal division, Uttarakhand. Its snow-covered trail includes the thick oak and Rhododendrons forest that forms a canopy so no harsh sun rays reach the ground, and that makes the trek more exciting. The Kuari Pass is paved over reasonable terrain and there are no such steep ascents that will cause much exertion on the hikers. And because this trek is near Auli, you can also visit that skiing resort.

6. Nag Tibba Trek

Trekking Distance	20 Km (Both Side)
Average Package Cost	INR 2,500 to INR 4,500
Duration	2-3 days
Max Altitude	3,022m (9,915 ft)
Average Temperature	10°- 0°
Hiking Difficulty	Easy
Nearest Hospital	Landour Community Hospital, Mussoorie
Basecamp	Pantwari

The Nag Tibba Trek is one of the perfect destinations for hiking on weekends. It is located in the Garhwal division of Uttarakhand, near Mussoorie and Dehradun. It is the highest peak of the lesser Himalayan range; it offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains including Bandarpunch, Swargarohini, and Black Peak and valleys including Doon valley, Yamunotri Valley and many others. 

The Nag Tibba Trek starts from Pantwari Village and covers a short distance of only 20 km round trip to reach the summit and return to the base camp. The trail of the trek is adorned with a forest of Oak, cedar, Alpine, and Rhododendrons trees and you’ll be delighted to see such beautiful vast landscapes covered with a snow blanket. It serves as an ideal trek both for beginners and experienced trekkers. On your way to its highest point, there is also a camping facility provided at the Kathian Campsite. If you want, you can spend overnight there amidst the raw nature. 

7. Gulabi Kantha Trek

Trekking Distance	28 km
Average Package Cost	INR 7,000 to INR 11,000
Duration	4-5 days
Max Altitude	3,789m (12,430ft)
Average Temperature	15° to 5°C
Hiking Difficulty	Moderate
Nearest Hospital	Arihant Hospital
Basecamp	Hanuman Chatti

In the Yamunotri valley of Uttarkashi, the Gulabi Kantha trek is a perfect winter trek for families and beginners. It is set amidst the snow covered landscape at an altitude of 3,789 m, offering home to a diverse range of flora and fauna in its lap. During this trek, you will get to see the mesmerizing beauty of the other Himalayan mountain ranges, such as Bandarpunch, Sarutal Range, Chaukhambha Peaks, etc.

The starting point of the trek is Hanuman Chatti which is situated at the confluence of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna. This is an easy winter trek with a comparatively low altitude covering a distance of 28 km. Additionally, you’ll get to witness and enjoy the local Garwhali culture, and customs. If you want to experience true nature and seek a serene environment, this is an ideal place.

8. Khaliya Top Trek

Trekking Distance	6.3 km
Average Package Cost	INR 6,000 to INR 10,000
Duration	4-5 days
Max Altitude	3,500m (11,483ft)
Average Temperature	10° to -5°C
Hiking Difficulty	Easy
Nearest Hospital	C.H.C Munsiyari
Basecamp	Munsiyari

The Khaliya Top Trek is located in the Pithoragarh district of the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 3,500 m. Among the other ideal winter treks for beginners, the Khaliya Top is considered the best. This Trek serves as a home to various bird and animal species, such as Monal, Yellow Throated Marten, kakar, and more. Even on the trail, you’ll find a diverse range of flora that will make this journey more enjoyable.

Practically, the hike to the top of the summit begins from the Baltali Bend in Munsiyari. The total trek is 14 km, but from the campsite of Munsiyari, the trek to the Khaliya zero point is 6.3 km. On this trek, there are multiple rest houses and food facilities where you can stay and enjoy your journey to its fullest.

Challenges of Trekking in Winter

• Due to fog in winter, it becomes difficult to trek in the early morning due to poor visibility.
• The sharp cold of mountains causes physical issues like frostbite, common cold, muscle cramps and hypothermia. 
• Compared to Summer, the days are short so the trekkers get fewer hours to trek efficiently. 
• In the winter season, most of the local residents and shepherds of Uttarakhand emigrate to the low altitude places so there are fewer accommodation options like Chhani, Shepherds huts, etc. in high altitudes.
• Besides this, there are more chances of weather disturbances in winter. And sometimes your guide can decide to change the trek route or itinerary considering immediate weather events. 

How to Prepare for Winter Treks in Uttarakhand

To be prepared for the winter trek, we are giving you a short guide, which will assist you completely. 

1. Physical & Mental Preparation

• You need to start doing physical exercise like running, walking, cycling, or gym workouts, 30 days before the trekking. 
• If you are already physically fit then just keep doing workout regularly. 
• Mentally, you should be prepared for challenges while trekking. It’s better to trek with an optimistic and brave approach.

2. Essential Clothing for the Trek

• Due to the variation in the climatic conditions during winter, it is crucial to save yourself from the cold and heavy snowfall. You should wear multiple layers of clothes along with a poncho instead of wearing one thick jacket.
• The winter hiking boots with microspikes and gaiters are a must for trekking in winter. It helps individuals to walk on snow smoothly and safely. 
• Along with it, woolen socks, a cap, a neck warmer and gloves are necessary to combat the freezing cold.
• Ideally, you should wear thermal inner at the base and then wear 2-3 sweaters. Above all, put your sleeves on the fleece waterproof jacket. You can wear waterproof gloves as well. 
• To save your skin and eyes from UV rays, consider wearing sunglasses. 
• Lastly, we would suggest you include sunscreen, moisturizer and lip balm while packing because skin and lips seem dry in winter. 

3. Permit & Gear

• The sub zero sleeping bag, trekking pole, waterproof backpack, raincoat, rain cover, and headlight will make your trekking experience better. 
• Besides this, you can carry a warm bag and heating pads to comfort your limbs. 
• The first Aid Kit and power bank are also must to carry with the luggage. 

4. Altitude sickness awareness

At high altitudes, when you go trekking, you must be aware of the Altitude Sickness. 

• Due to High Altitude, there are conditions like low levels of Oxygen and low pressure. And so your heart beats and breathing rate increases in the Mountains. 
• Further, there are different stages of altitude sickness, and the basic symptoms are drowsiness, nausea and headache. Now if these symptoms get worse, then you should consult the doctor immediately.  
• To shield yourself from Altitude Sickness, you should avoid physical exertion, speedy trekking, and rapid ascent. 
• Before going on the trek, consult your doctor and ask him to prescribe some medicine for altitude sickness for the upcoming trek. 
• Lastly, you should follow the instructions of your Trekking Guide sincerely to avoid any medical condition. 

FAQs

Conclusion

Trekking on snow ridges, witnessing snowfall and visualizing the unreal snow beauty of the Himalayas is something that can be experienced only in winter trekking. Considering the various factors, we have extracted some of the best winter treks in Uttarakhand, which are mentioned above in the article properly. Through this much information about winter treks, you can easily decide which winter trek is most favorable for you. So now what are you waiting for? Choose the trek, pack the bags, and leave the home to experience something magical in the snowy trails of the Uttarakhand Himalayas.