What are the best Himalayan treks for beginners? If you’ve ever had questions about this, this episode is for you. Swathi sits with Vishal, a senior Trek Leader at Indiahikes, to find out the trek that would be the best fit for beginners.

Watch the first part of the episode below

To give you a brief of what Vishal has to say, here are the Perfect Himalayan Trek For Beginners

If you are looking to challenge yourself after your first trek, trek leader Vishal lists out the next set of treks you can try. Watch the second part of the episode here.

In this Trek with Swathi episode, Swathi sits with senior Trek Leader Vishal to find out the best treks for beginners in India.

What are the Best Himalayan Treks for Beginners in 2023

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Across India, from mid March until April (Spring season), people are not really going on treks. Parents are overwrought with kids’ exams. Deadlines in offices somehow hang in the air.

Meanwhile, quietly on the side, a splendid season of trekking between Mid March and April slips by. 

But first, here is the Table of Contents to help you navigate to any of our 13 Best Spring treks of your choice:

In mid March, when winter starts to recede, snow is still around. A carpet of fresh grass sprouts around these snow patches. It makes meadows and clearings above 9,000 feet a delight. The lush grass with ankle-length flowers against the backdrop of snow is a visual treat.

Shaking off the harshness of winter, new leaves start sprouting on trees. Flowers bloom. The landscape is a riot of colours. Spring is in the air. 

Birds wake up from their winter slumber. Their voices spring through the forests. For those who love bird photography, Spring is the time of the year to do treks. 

Himalayan Monal - the state bird of Uttarakhand spotted on the Deoriatal Chandrashila trek. Picture by Ajit Hota

If these were not Enough, there is the Magic of Rhododendrons

For me, the rhodos is a big reason to go trekking. What a sight they make! In spring, rhododendrons with their scarlet and pink flowers burst into bloom. It is as if the hills are on fire! When rhodos bloom they envelop trees. Sometimes it is difficult to spot leaves through the flowers! 

The blazing trail of rhododendrons on the spring trek. Picture by Jothiranjan B

My favourite rhodos are, of course, the scarlet ones. They are not very common, so it is terrific to see if there is a scarlet playing hide and seek around a bend! Some slopes have the yellows and whites in between the pinks. Sunlight flirting through these blooms make trekking a joy!

Trekking in Spring is Great for the Crackling Summit Views

Let me explain. Two months later, in summer, when it is peak trekking season there is a smoky haze over the mountains. Forest fires, smog, heat and dust  contributes to this. Mountain views are disappointing. 

Worse, in summer when the sun heats up the earth, the forests transpire, releasing a lot of water vapour in the air. the cool air of the mountains quickly gather up these water vapour and turn them into clouds.

It is not uncommon to see a bright clear day patched with lots of clouds by 11 in the morning. The big mountains that you have been planning to see are now almost hidden. 

On the other hand in spring mountain views are worth dying for. You get clear blue skies that stretch from horizon to horizon. The air is crisp — the views crackling. 

The Chaukhamba massif as seen from the Chandrashila summit. Picture by Yusuf Serki

I remember last year when I was trekking to the top of Chandrashila summit, I stood for a moment to take in what I was seeing around me. There they were, right in front of me, like a fan of playing cards, the entire range of eastern and western Gharwal mountains of India. I was seeing the greatest mountain ranges in India at their sharpest best. 

Another time, I took a short walk to the summit of Hatu Peak near Shimla. It was the second week of March. There too the sprawling summit views took my breath away. This time I was gazing at summits of eastern Himachal. So sharp they were that I could tick off almost thirty or forty summits in the horizon.  

When you walk into a tourist office and see a big landscape picture of mountain ranges — the photographs are almost always taken in early winter or in March/April. 

I share with you a list of the best treks to do in between Mid-March and April end. I have left out a few that I feel don’t make this list.

Here are the 13 best Himalayan treks to do in Spring:

You don't see such greener meadows in any other season than spring and summer. Notice Mt Chaukhamba looming in the background. Picture by Rupendra Yadav

The best rhododendron trek of our country. And the best trek to do in Spring. And to damn everything, it also has the best mountain views from the summit.

Set in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarakhand, the Deoriatal Chandrashila trek is a treat for wildlife lovers. And it is also a great summit climb (12,083 ft)  for those who are beginning to start trekking in the Himalayas.

You see, summit climbs are rewarding, and trudge up a mountain for hours during the wee hours. You reach its highest point like the rays of the sun lighten the sky. Everything is below you — the clouds, the hills, the tiny specks of civilization. On a Himalayan trek, you usually see mountain ranges in the distance.

This is where Deoriatal Chandrashila is special. It is not a section of Himalayan ranges that you see. You see all the major summits of Western and Eastern Uttarakhand from the summit. By all, we mean all.

View of Mt Trishul from Tilandi campsite. Picture by Guhanesan Sivalingam

A close second in the list of the best treks to do in Spring, we have the Brahmatal trek.

On the Brahmatal trek, you walk on a high-point with the mountain dropping on either side. This is called a ridgeline. A ridgeline often gives the feeling of an extended summit.

What’s delightful is that you also get to camp on the ridge – at Tilandi. From here, you get to see the Himalayan landscape rolling out on both sides.

As you are on a high point at Tilandi, you get to witness the sunset and sunrise from the same campsite. And being at the high-point also makes it the windiest campsite of the trek.

To top it all, you get to see Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti up close from Brahmatal Top!

Alpen glow on sleeping buddha during sunset as seen from Sandakphu campsite. Picture by Kartik Vasan

Putting the Sandakphu – Phalut trek at the end tells you that there’s no particular order in this list. With views of four of the tallest mountains in the world – Mt Everest, Mt Lhotse, Mt Makalu and Mt Kanchenjunga, this is one trek to keep a tab on if you’re going in spring.

Not only do you get crisp views, but you also trek through wonderful forests of the Singalila National Park. The colours in these rhododendron, bamboo and pine forests are stunning!

Being up in the mountains in such clear, clean air is a blessing. Everything seems more enhanced – the colours, the smells, the scale… They say an uncluttered home can bring clarity to the mind; an uncluttered trek in the Himalayas can do just that a 1000 times over.

Mt Kanchenjunga as seen from viewpoint 1. Picture by Suraj Cjepyala

The biggest reason to do the Goechala trek is the grand views of big mountains that you see. You don’t just see one summit — the Kanchenjunga — but 14 other big summits. That’s a lot for any trek — especially as close to the eyes as on the Goechala trek. It is no wonder that trekkers consider Goechala to be the closest to the big mountain treks of Nepal.

The trail to Goechala is blessed with rhododendron forests. And come spring-summer months of April and May, they burst to life with pink and red flowers! It’s an enormously pleasing walk through the wooden-log trails of these jungles!

The Samiti Lake is another big attraction on the Goechala trek. The view of the still waters, and the reflection of Mt Pandim in the lake, especially in the early hours, is a visual treat.

 Mt Nanda Devi, India's highest mountain as seen from Kuari Pass trek. Picture by Avijit Jamloki

This is a trek that blows everyone’s brains out with its terrific views of the India’s highest mountain. It is one of our most “complete” treks with few of the best forests, campsites, ridge walks and mountain views.

Irrespective of you being a seasoned trekker or a beginner the Kuari Pass is a trek you need to do. It is a must-do for the views of some of India’s most celebrated mountains – Mt Nanda Devi (25,673 feet) and Mt Dronagiri (23,182 feet) – in any season.

Mt Trishul during golden hour on the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek. Picture by Raghavendra S N

Out of all the meadow treks in our country, Ali Bedni Bugyal has the grandest mountain views. Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti are an arm’s distance away from Bedni Bugyal.

The Ali and Bedni meadows are themselves an attraction, as they span as far and wide as your eyes can see. They are one of the largest high altitude meadows of our country!

Not just that, the unforgettable sunrises and sunsets while camping at Abin Kharak and a unique experience of trekking through ancient and dense forests makes this trek a treasure in itself.

You can find patches of snow at the beginning of the spring. Picture by Vasudev Sharma

There are many reasons why it is a very popular trek to do in the Indian Himalayas.  The most important of them is this — the summit climb.

The summit climb of Kedarkantha is a very rewarding one.  Right from the base camp of the trek, the summit looms large.  As you start your trek in the early hours of the morning and steadily climb up the steep slope, the world opens up around you.

The climb is not easy.  The entire stretch is steadily steep.  As you get closer to the summit, it gets tricky as well.  But the big mountains of the upper Himalayas keep you company until you finally reach the summit.

As you stretch yourself and take in the views of the Himalayas from the summit, you feel a strong sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. This is an unparalleled feeling.

Very few treks offer the same adventure, making it popular among beginners for its finest summit climb.

The entire forest section takes new form during spring. They become so colorful. Picture by Deep Thakkar

One of the best meadow treks of our country, with powdery snow still on them. The views of Mt Bandarpoonch from the meadows can flatten anyone.

Very few trekkers have set foot on the Dayara Bugyal trek, even though it lies very close to the Gangotri region.

Dayara Bugyal is one of those off-beat treks which takes your breath away! It is so rewarding for very little effort.

The vast meadows, beautiful campsites and stunning mountain views make Dayara Bugyal an ideal summer trek. Especially if there are kids aged 7 years and above, because it makes for a perfect family trek.

The thrilling summit climb to Pangarchulla peak. Picture by Satyen Dasgupta

If you are looking for a power packed thrilling summit climb, climbing all the way till 15,069 ft, then Pangarchulla Peak trek offers it in spades. It’s a difficult trek with a small window when it is accessible to trekkers, that’s only in April. If you are fit, and are looking for an adrenaline rush, go for it.

While the summit climb in itself leaves you with a strong adrenaline rush, what adds to this experience is the mountain views you get from the top. All along the trek you are accompanied along with grand views of a big part of the Greater Himalayan Range. And at the summit, you are surrounded by them and they all stand so close to you.

Mt Swargarohini seen from Ruinsara valley. Picture by Subhash

The cultural favourite — in the early part of the trek you pass through ancient wooden villages that still stand the same despite being many centuries old. The stories and legends of these villages date back to the mythologies. Later, the astounding scenery changes every day can leave anyone breathless.

And then Ruinsara Tal pulls all possible expectations from under our feet. Such places exist in our country?

The stunning mountain views as seen from the Khopra ridge. Picture by Krunal Patel.

The panaroma of snow capped mountains as you see from Nag Tibba summit. Picture by Bharat Monga

We all know summit climbs are incredibly rewarding in a trek. This is why we have trekkers flocking to treks like Kedarkantha or Deoriatal – Chandrashila. In a trail like Nag Tibba, you get to experience the thrill of a summit climb in just a weekend! And it is one of the best short treks to do in Spring.

Resting at 9,915 ft, the summit of this trek is the highest in the Nag Tibba range of Garhwal Himalayas. From here, you see a 100-degree view of snow-capped Himalayan ranges such as Swargrohini, Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, Srikantha, and Gangotri.

You also see Kedarnath peak in the north, Doon valley and the snow peaks of Changabang. With views like this and a climb to make you earn them, this weekend trek may be one of the best.

A lone rhododendron tree in the full bloom. Picture by Jothiranjan

A new addition to our trek roster, this weekend trek’s highlight is its campsites. It offers a 270 degree view of the greatest mountains of the Greater Himalayas — Mrigthuni, Trishul, Nanda Devi, Chang-Bang, Dronagiri, Neelkanth, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath — just to name a few.

Even though this is a short trek, it has the charm of certain longer Himalayan treks. For example, a break-point you cross enroute the Patangnia meadows will remind you of Bekaltal from Brahmatal trek.

| Also Look out for Exclusive Treks for Families in Spring

In the same season, we also have exclusive family treks to Kedarkantha and Dayara Bugyal. We organise the trek specially for families with children, to enhance their learning from the outdoors.

Find dates and details of exclusive family treks here.

Most of the groups already have registrations going up, though not full yet. It’s best to sign up now if you want the luxury of choosing dates that suit you. 

If you have any thoughts or questions, drop in a comment below. One of us from Indiahikes will get back to you.

Here are the 13 Best Himalayan Treks to do this Spring. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced trekker, there's something for everyone!

13 Best Treks to do this Spring in the Himalayas in 2023

Today I’m going to give you some advice that not many people will give you. 

And I’ll get straight to it: If you want to do a winter trek in snow, avoid the month of December. Choose January and February instead. 

Many trekkers raise their eyebrows when I give this advice. 

For most of them, December is the prime time to travel. And I understand that. They have holidays around then. Their children have vacations during Christmas and New Year. Or they want to finish up their leaves before the end of year.  

On a different note, trekkers also look at December as synonymous with winter. Not many people even think of January and February as winter.

Yet, when you think about it, December has its difficulties. (1) Flight charges are exorbitant at this time of the year (even if you book well in advance). (2) Hotels charge almost double their regular tariff (if at all they have availability) (3) Every place you turn to is crowded, including trekking trails. 

I'd like to elaborate a bit on the third point. 

A study that we did revealed that more trekkers go to the mountains in December than in the classic summer months of May and June! 

The crowd is so concentrated in December that the graph is staggering! 

The above graph shows you a huge spike in crowds in December, dwindling down dramatically in January and February. This is four years’ worth of data. 

To me, this concentration of trekking in December is the biggest tragedy! 

It completely removes the fun and serenity of trekking. Where there must be peace and quiet, you have music blaring on loudspeakers. Where there must be calm nights, you have campfires, alcohol and unruly behaviour. Campsites are strained for resources — space, water, toilets (campsites often become minefields of human waste). If it’s a summit climb, the crowd gets heavy on top, with queues and long build-ups, and hundreds of people standing at the summit. I don’t know what summit experience that is.

A camping experience loses any sense of serenity when you're surrounded by a large crowd, which is always the case in December. Picture by Hardik Patel

Outside the crowd, why trekkers must shift focus to January and February (The Big Snow Season): 

I admit, the crowd in December can put off any discerning trekker, but frankly, the real reason to go trekking in January or February is something else. 

January and February (until mid March) are the real big snow season. It is not December. December is the mere beginning of winter. It’s when the first winter snow comes in. However, this is still just the beginning. 

Real winter sets in only in January and February in our country, forming a luxuriant blanket of snow on all Himalayan treks. January and February are what we term as the “Big Snow Season” at Indiahikes.

I recollect speaking to a meteorologist, Akshay Deoras, who has been a forecaster for the past 12 years. “What we consider early winter (Oct-Dec) is officially post-monsoon. Only January and February are officially considered winter,” he had said. You can read my entire interview with him on snowfall in India here. 

Here’s where I want to reiterate my advice to you. 

Most of us go to the mountains in winter to isolate ourselves from the clutter and noise of the city or to trek in a beautiful snowy setting. 

And there’s no better time than the Big Snow Season to experience these. Here’s why: 

1. There’s more snow deposit on the trails compared to December. As you may know, winter snow is brought to our country by western disturbances. While there is usually one wave of western disturbance in December, there are at least 2-3 waves in the Big Snow Season. These are usually stronger waves and leave behind larger deposits of snow — so much so that it is this snow that lasts all the way to the end of April. 

This snow deposit is what gives you a true snowy experience. Right from Day 1, when you’re in the forests, you see fairy-tale-like snowy settings. The boughs of trees are beautifully laden with snow. The tree tops are drizzled with frost. As you climb higher, you see meadows and clearings covered in a vast white blanket. The ground below you is a soft powdery carpet. Our camps are usually in the heart of this snow deposit.

Frankly, most winter photos of Himalayan treks that you see are taken in this Big Snow season, and not in December. 

The snow deposit on all treks is the highest in the months of Jan and Feb, the Big Snow Season. Picture by Dhaval Jajal shot on the Dayara Bugyal trek

2. There are greater chances of snowfall in the Big Snow Season: More WDs = more probability of snowfall. I know this is something trekkers dream of experiencing! So if you want to have an adventurous experience with high chances of snowfall, the Big Snow Season is your best chance at it. 

Here, I know some of you may think that the presence of high snow might stop you from completing your trek. What I have noticed is that successful completion of the trek depends a lot on the technical team who goes along with you. At Indiahikes 92% of our trekkers completed their treks successfully (in the past two seasons). Only those who ran into the middle of a snowfall could not complete the trek. On such occasions we call off the trek (and sometimes the forest department does so too). 

Note: At Indiahikes, if you do not complete your trek, you are welcome to come back and finish the trek. We do not charge you for it. Did you know this?

With more western disturbances, there are much higher chances of snowfall in Jan and Feb. Picture by Vishnu Sivanandan

Consider this a reminder because now is the right time to start planning. Our December dates for all winter treks have thoroughly run out. And we now have January and February dates available. 

If you plan now, you’ll have the luxury of choosing dates that suit you. Very soon, you’ll have to adjust your schedule to the leftover dates. I hope you make use of this reminder.

Top 8 Himalayan Treks to do in the Big Snow Season (January and February):

1. Dayara Bugyal trek - Our Only Winter Trek with the Biggest Snow Expanse

Dayara Bugyal is superbly rewarding at any time of the year. But the snowscape in winter is a world on its own. 

The biggest reward, though, are the meadows of Dayara — the biggest snow expanse you’ll see. Miles and miles of undulating snow, like a field of vanilla ice cream, with not a single tree or a plant or a rock that obstructs the snow. It’s just velvety snow for as far as your eyes can see.

Ever since we first opened it in winter 2017, trekkers have fallen in love with the other wintry charm of this trek — the lovely snow-draped oaks and maples, the soft glow of early morning sun on the white meadows, the icy lakes and ponds, the towering Gangotri ranges… 

You’re not likely to see this much snow on any other winter trek. Add to it the number of snow slides while descending, it’s the most fun you’ll have on a winter trek! 

My tip for you: Catching the sight of Mt Bandarpoonch from the white expanse of the Dayara meadows is a highlight of the trek. Camping at the delightful Nayata campsite is another big reason. 

Duration: 6 days 
Suitable for: Beginners with no prior experience

View Dayara Bugyal Trek Dates and Details

The forests of Dayara Bugyal in winter. Picture by Dhaval Jajal

2. Brahmatal trek - The Only Trek In Winter That Goes To An Alpine Lake

Brahmatal as a winter trek has become almost as popular as Kedarkantha. And I’m not surprised. The best experience on this trek is getting to see the frozen Brahmatal lake in winter. Almost no other trek takes you to an alpine lake in winter. On this trek, you see two of them: the Bekaltal and the Brahmatal. In addition, it’s a stunner in winter with the snowscapes and the snowy forests. 

My tip for you: The views of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti once you touch the ridges is the reason to do the trek. Did you know Mt Trishul is the first 7,000 metre summit to be climbed by man? And on this trek it is so close that nothing separates you from where you stand and the summit. 

Duration: 6 days
Suitable for: Fit beginners

The frozen Brahmatal Lake in peak winter. Picture by Ashish Bhatt

3. Sandakphu-Phalut trek - See Four Of The Tallest Mountains In The World

Sandakphu is one of the few treks that has been done in January and February for a very long time. It’s a trail that dates back to the 40’s with a lot of historical and cultural significance. It’s different from ALL our other treks, because it’s on the border of India and Nepal. Sometimes on the trek you don’t know if you are in Nepal or in India! At some camps your dining tent is in Nepal and your camping tents in India! But it is the Indo-Nepal-Tibetian culture that you will find mesmerising on the trek. You find the same trekking culture on the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp treks. 

My tip for you: Do this trek to experience the famous tea house culture of Nepal. It is warmer too!

Duration: 7 days
Suitable for: Fit beginners

View Sandakphu-Phalut trek dates and details

Sandakphu is one of those few trails where you have the luxury of staying in a warm tea house despite the chilly weather outside. Picture of the Molley camp by Dwaipayan Purkait

4. Kedarkantha trek - The Finest Summit Climb In Winter

This is India’s most popular winter trek. The good news is the crowd completely dies down by January. And in February, there are almost no signs that this is a popular trek at all. 

Do this trek for the summit climb. The alpine views (and settings) from the Kedarkantha summit are unmatched anywhere. 

My tip for you: For us at Indiahikes, we love the forests and the clearings of the Kedarkantha trek more than the summit climb. We have not found an equivalent of these anywhere else!

Peak winter in Kedarkantha is a challenging experience. But every bit of effort rewards you manifold. This picture was taken in late December. Picture by Dhaval Jajal

5. Deoriatal-Chandrashila - The Only Winter Trek With The Best Mountain Views

Seeing great mountain views on a trek is not easy. In winter, most such vantage points are rare and even if accessible, they are usually buried under deep snow. 

The Chandrashila summit is unparalleled among our treks. From the top of the summit, you see perhaps the greatest mountain views of our Indian Himalayas. It is like a grand feast of mountain views — From your left are the Gangotri range of peaks, Mt Thalaysagar, the Kedarnath and the Kedar dome. Mandani Parbat and Janhukut. The imposing Chaukhamba is right in front. Most of them are over 7,000 metres tall. 

On your right are the Gauri Parbat, Hathi Parbat and Dunagiri. And then right ahead standing against the skyline is India’s tallest mountain, Mt Nanda Devi. Trekkers find it hard to believe that they are seeing Mt Nanda Devi. If that’s not enough, to Mt Nanda Devi’s right, etched against the skyline are Mt Nanda Ghunti and Mt Trishul. Two of the most beautiful mountain summits in our country. 

My tip for you: Do this trek for three reasons: for the terrific Mt Chaukhamba view from the shores of Deoriatal. For the mountain views from the Chandrashila summit and the chance to see Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in our country. And yes, the trek has great trails through the forests as well. One of my favourites. 

Duration: 6 days
Suitable for: Beginners with no prior experience in trekking

View Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek dates and details

The Deoriatal Lake in winter, surrounded by snow, with the Chaukhamba massif in the background. Picture by Avijit Jamloki

6. Kuari Pass - The Only Trekkable Mountain Pass In Winter

Getting to a mountain pass is always adventurous and thrilling. Doing it in winter is almost impossible. Yet, there is only one trek in our country where this is possible — the Kuari Pass.

Apart from its splendid views and forests, Kuari pass is a mountain lovers’ delight. You have an unending vista of the biggest mountains in India opening up right from day one. You even get to see the clearest view of the full south face of Mt Nanda Devi, India’s highest mountain.  

More than this, Kuari Pass is a near-perfect trek. You go through ancient layered forests, hopping from one layer to another. The section above the tree line is fascinating with its many twists and turns over ridges and flanks to get to the pass. 

My tip for you: If you want to see the tallest mountains of the Indian Himalayas, Mt Nanda Devi, and one of the most aesthetic peaks, Mt Dronagiri, choose this trek. It is one of those treks that spoils you with incredible views right from the first day of the trek.

The oak forests of Kuari Pass covered in snow. Picture by Sandhya UC

7. Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek - The Winter Trek With The Most Variety

Out of all the winter meadow treks in our country, Ali Bedni has the most variety during the winter season. Starting off with the mountain views. The sight of Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti jutting right out of the snow-covered mounds of meadows is a sight to behold. Jutting out doesn’t mean you see the tops of these mountains, you see the entire face — almost 6,000-7,000 feet of it — rising right in front of you! 

Another unique experience is witnessing the remote, untouched table top village of Didna on this trek. From your basecamp at Lohajung it looks set on a platter jutting out of the mountain. You actually camp here. 

In winter, the setting of this trek, through the forests above Didina and then through the clearings at Tolpani will stun any trekker. Further, when you descend through the forest at Gheroli Patal and Wan have a lot more variety than any of our winter treks. 

My tip for you: This trek has few of the most stunning views of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti. Sitting in Ali Bugyal as the sun sets, trekkers are often moved to tears at this sight. Just for that view, this trek is worth doing. 

View Ali Bedni Bugyal trek dates and details

The magical clearings in the forests of Tolpani in winter. Picture shot in Jan 2021 by Indiahikes Team Member Ravi Ranjan

Here’s a trek that climbs right out of Mussoorie, but not many people do it in peak winter. Despite being a small weekend trek, it gets lots of snow in Jan and Feb, giving you an experience much like a full-fledged Himalayan trek. The sunset views and the forest trails on this trek are something trekkers fall in love with. 

My tip for you: This trek makes a lot of sense if you live in or around Delhi and want to have a quick adventure over the weekend. 

Duration: 2 days 
Suitable for: Beginners with no experience, families with slightly older children too (above 13)

That’s the list of our peak winter treks. 

Given that it’s a small list, the dates are likely to run out soon. So plan as soon as possible. 

If you have any questions, head over to our FAQ page to find detailed answered. If you still don't find answers, drop in your question in our Trekker Forum, where you will get valuable help from experienced trekkers. 

Most trekkers flock to the mountains during December. Yet, they don't know that January and February will give them a better winter experience. Here's why

Why Trekking In January And February Is Better Than December (Includes Top Snow Treks To Do)

jan feb january february december winter snow trek big snow

Why Trekking in Jan and Feb is Better than December 

Goecha La is best done in October and November. Why? Three words. Spectacular mountain views. After the monsoon rains wash away all the dust and haze; Crystal clear views of snow-clad peaks await trekkers. This is why photographers wait till Autumn to scale Goechala and capture it at its best. If you want to get great views of the Kanchenjunga.

Mid-September to October end is the time for spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga. Trails strewn with rhododendrons give the trek a poetic charm. Red rhododendrons that bloom in September will turn several shades darker by October. The best part of the Goechala trek is how these colours change through different times of the year. By November these flowers will be a combination of white and maroon.

Kanchenjunga at twilight. Picture from Indiahikes archive

In September and October, there is a possibility of rain. There will be slippery patches of ice in September but nil or negligible snow in these months. The mountain views compensate for strong cold winds in this season.

Mt Kanchenjunga as seen on the Goechala trek. Picture by Savit Kulshreshtha

Goechala trekkers will experience heavy snow during this season. Pristine white sceneries await trekkers. Red rhododendrons bloom in April setting the trail from Phedang to Dzongri alight with colours. There will be comparatively fewer flowers in May. Dense forest trail from Yuksom to Tshokha. Grassy meadows after Thansing. The best time to trek is from April last week to June end.

Yellow rhododendrons in the bloom in Tshoka. Spring is the best time to witness this. Picture by Sourav Mukherje

The North Eastern region of India is home to one of the wettest places on the planet. Sikkim faces heavy fog and torrential rains during these months. The southwest monsoon makes Goechala considerably difficult.

Torrential downpours make the trail dangerously slippery. Continuous rains can loosen the mud slopes and cause landslides which may block transport routes. The mist gives the views a blurry yet magical touch. It is generally not advisable to undertake the Goechala trek during the rainy season.

Monsoons are notorious for continuous heavy rains, slippery patches and landslides. Picture by Abhishek Vaddadi

Trekking to Goechala in the winter months is extremely difficult (close to impossible). The slopes will be steep with ice. Trekkers will require prior experience and proper equipment for this trek.

Read more about the Goechala trek here - https://indiahikes.com/goechala

To know about our upcoming treks, click here - https://indiahikes.com/upcoming-treks

The Goechala trek is said to be best done in the autumn months. Ever wondered why? Why is it inaccessible in some months? Clickhere to know!

Goechala through the Seasons

While trekking in December started as early as 2010, trekking in the peak snow months of January and February opened only in 2017. 

We had some anxiety about the snow earlier. February snowfall can occasionally be too much! Over the years we understood that treks in February are not only feasible but also breathtakingly beautiful. There was no turning back after that. We opened up our favourite trails for trekkers in January and February. Last year we had our highest February numbers. 1,170 trekked in February.

As a mountain lover, if you're looking to start the year on a high, plan right away. It's already late for February. Many of the groups are getting filled.

Silent and snowy forests (absolutely no crowded trails)

Vast expanses of snow (a carpet of snow everywhere)

Bright blue skies (the bluest skies are in February. As a result the mountain views are to die for)

Today I have put together a photo story of the treks. I don’t have to tell you much. The photos do the talking. 

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate | Level 2
Location: Central Uttarakhand, Basecamp Sari, district Rudraprayag
Duration: 6 days (Including travel to and from the basecamp)

You must not miss the sight of Mt. Chaukhamba from Deoriatal. At 7,138 metres, Mt. Chaukhamba is one of the tallest mountains in India. It dominates the skyline at Deoriatal. Trekkers spend hours gazing at the mountain, so captivating is the image. Photo from Indiahikes Archive.

The Deoriatal Chandrashila trek is in the heart of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, which is heavily forested. Here you see the trail, after a snowfall, going towards Tungnath. Photo by Chandrasekhar.

In contrast to the forested trail, the climb to Chandrashila is an open landscape. In winter, the entire face of the Chandrashila summit is covered in snow. Even without snow, the climb to the summit is very rewarding. The summit opens up the views of the entire Greater Himalayas. Photo from Prashant Bhat.

Difficulty: Easy-Moderate | Level 3
Location: North Uttarakhand, Basecamp Tapoban, district Chamoli
Duration: 6 days (Including travel to and from the basecamp)

In this video you'll find our Indiahikes team fleshing out details about the trek that no one tells you about. It is these details that make Kuari Pass magical. These are rare insights.

Here is a list of the best winter treks in the Indian Himalayas. Go through them now to plan your next winter trek in advance!

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