Across the world, tourists and travellers make a beeline to see blooming flowers, whether it is cherry blossoms in Japan, tulips in Amsterdam, or, closer home, the Valley of Flowers. Yet, most trekkers miss out on one of the grandest experiences in India: blooming rhododendrons!

In mid-March, just as the spring season swirls its way into the Himalayas, rhododendron buds begin to shake off residual winter snow. Over the next two months, until early summer, rhododendron flowers set the mountainsides ablaze with striking hues of scarlet, pink, purple, and red. It’s a sight that you’ll rarely see, yet it’s a sight that you’ll never forget.

These flowers bloom only at certain latitudes, between 80°N and 20°S, in a few parts of the world. But their largest presence is in the Sino-Indian Himalayas. Within India, it is spread across Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Nepal, with the maximum concentration of the flowers being towards the east.

There are a total of 187 species of Rhododendrons in the Indian Himalayan Region. A pathway surrounded by rhodos on the trek from Deoriatal to Syalmi. Picture by Yogesh Shinde

While the attractive red-coloured flowers are seen between a wide range of altitudes (3,500 ft and 10,500 ft), there are other species—light pink, purple, and blue—that you see between 10,000 and 13,000 ft, especially towards the edges of the meadows (like at Khullara or Bedni Bugyal).

However, you will not experience the splendour of rhododendrons on every Himalayan trek. Only some of our treks display this once-in-a-year phenomenon. You need to know which trek to go on and how to time your trek. It would help if you also planned your trek well in advance, because these groups get full quickly. 

Rhododendrons bloom only between late winter and early summer, which means they bloom between late February and late-April. 

You’ll see rhododendrons in full bloom anywhere between late Feb and early May, based on the region you’re trekking in. In this picture, you see a rhododendron tree in full bloom on the Sandakphu trek. Picture by Sharat Kolke

In the Uttarakhand region, you’ll see rhododendrons blooming from late February until the middle of April. The flowers are at their peak between mid-March and mid-April.

In Sikkim, Nepal, and North Bengal, you’ll see blooms from early April until early May. They are at their peak in the last two weeks of April and early May.

Based on these timings, these are your five greatest treks to see rhododendrons in our country.

Which are the Top Rhododendron Treks of India?

It’s no secret. Goechala is a trek that is known for its rhododendrons. “People come from all over the world to see the rhododendrons on the Goechala trek. It’s a huge attraction,” says Arjun Majumdar, the founder and CEO of Indiahikes. 

Yellow rhododendrons with a monastery in the backdrop at Tshoka. Picture by Sourav Mukherjee

What’s special is that it is not a fleeting section of rhododendrons on the Goechala trek. “You’ll start seeing your first rhododendrons after the Bakhim campsite.

“But the gem of it is after Tshoka. The stretch between Tshoka and Phedang, between 9,000 ft and 11,000 ft, is THE rhododendron belt. You see pink, yellow, scarlet and red rhododendrons. There are stretches where you’re walking in a tunnel of rhododendrons. Sunlight diffuses through these flowers magically, forming unreal colours in the forests. It’s the most remarkable rhododendron experience,” says Arjun.

A dark-rumped rosefinch perched on a rhododendron on the Goechala trail. Picture by Sahana

The Eastern Himalayas of Sikkim and North Bengal are well-known for their rhododendrons, but not so much the Western Himalayas. Which is why the Deoriatal Chandrashila trek, with its abundance of rhododendrons, is a trekker's delight. We call it “The Goechala of the West.”

And the trek lives up to its eastern sister to the T. Right off the bat, you enter a beautiful rhododendron forest, which delights you with trees heavily laden with rhododendrons. Within 2-3 hours, you are welcomed by the Deoriatal Lake, which is surrounded by rhododendron trees blazing in shades of crimson, magenta, and bright pink. 

Rhododedron trees painting the mountains pink, below a towering Mt Chaukhamba on the Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek. Picture by Manasa Gollapinni

“There’s a quiet trail that circumambulates the lake, taking you through a drooping canopy of rhododendrons. You’ll see flowers above you, on either side of you, and even below you. The trail is a carpet of fallen rhododendrons. It’s one of the most beautiful hours you’ll spend by the lake,” says Vivek Saini, Slope Manager at Indiahikes, who has spent the longest time serving as our slope manager in this region. 

You would think it is hard for the trek to match up to Day 1, but the forests from Deoriatal to Rohini Bugyal and further onto Chopta will leave you weak in the knees. Rhododendrons come at you in surprising clusters. 

A rhododendron tree in full bloom on the Deoriatal Chandrashila trail. Picture by Amandeep Singh

In fact, from the Baniya Kund campsite to the summit, you see a few of the best pink rhododendrons. "Given that this section retains snow all the way until late-April, you’ll see a glorious contrast of pink flowers against white snow," says Vivek. It's truly a photographer's delight.

If you are lucky enough, you’ll also get to spot the ultra-colourful Himalayan Monal scampering about in the rhododendron shrubs.

The forest section is an absolute visual treat with treetops sprinkled with snow. In early March, rhododendrons are in full bloom. Picture by Yogesh Shinde.

The Ranthan Kharak Trek is our latest rhododendron love. And with good reason. The trek is replete with rhododendron trees for almost two entire days of trekking. The trail between Namik and Bajimanian campsites has tall rhododendron trees, with the classic scarlet flowers blooming all along the trail. On the next day too, you are treated to rhododendrons until the Chopu campsite. 

The best part of this trek is that it doesn't have the crowds of Deoriatal or Goechala. You have enough time to immerse yourself in the forests, acquaint yourself with the lovely rhododendrons, observe how they thrive under the shade of oak trees, and more. 

Our initial team to Ranthan Kharak got a chance to witness them in full bloom. 

On the other hand, the lack of crowds keeps the forests brimming with birds. Our exploration team spotted several species on the trail, including multiple Himalayan monals.

For us, the fact that it is in the Kumaon region, where there are no other well-known treks, and that it has terrific mountain views, shows us that this trek has a lot of good things going on every day. It's a trek you must not miss. 

Sandakphu is a trek that has so many great things going on, but when you trek in the Rhododendron season, everything else takes a backseat. It is hard for other treks to compete with the arresting view of the Kanchenjunga range and the Everest range in front, with a canopy of rhododendrons below.  

Very similar to Goechala, the Sandakphu trail’s rhododendrons is an experience that is well-documented. It is something that Singalila National Park is known for.

A walk in the flower-strewn forests on the Sandakphu trek. Picture by Shayak Ray Chaudhuri

"The best rhododendron sections are between Samanden and Molley. The last stretch of this walk is entirely through rhododendron forests. The flowers are completely red and pink here. If you time your trek right, you'll be trekking in a sea of pink," says Akshay Upreti, Slope Manager at Indiahikes, who has spent several months in the Sandakphu region. 

The initial section from Aal to Gurdum is also a rhododendron forest. Not only do you see dark pink and scarlet flowers, but you also see light pink, white, and yellow flowers on this trek. 

Rhododendrons spread across the hills on the Sandakphu trek. Picture by Nikhil Jain

Brahmatal is a trek that will strike you with rhododendrons almost as soon as you start the trek. The basecamp of the trek, Lohajung, with its neatly planted rhododendron trees along your sitting area, gives you a small peek into what is in store for you on the trail. 

Trekking under a canopy of rhododendrons on the Brahmatal trek. Picture by Gourab Nandy

"You are treated to the best rhododendron experience on the very first day of this trek as you climb towards Gujrani. This is one of the densest rhododendron forests I've seen. Our Gujraini campsite is also in the heart of rhododendron forests. It makes for a terrific setting in April," says Gourab Nandy, Slope Manager at Indiahikes, who spent the entire rhododendron season in 2021 in the Brahmatal region. 

"If that was not enough, one of the most magical rhododendron experiences is at Bekaltal. Even though the density of the flowers isn't too much, the entire lakeside is strewn with pink petals. Trekkers love sitting by this lake and sharing stories," he adds.

Trekkers sharing stories sitting by the Bekaltal lake. A rhododendron tree blooms lusciously in the foreground. Picture by Gourab Nandy

The rhododendron experience carries on until the last day on this trek, where you see the last of the rhododendrons towards Khorurai. 

1. Rhododendron trees towards Patangnia Ridge on the Chirbatiya weekend trek: When it comes to forest trails, this trek is hard to compete with, especially on a weekend. While you see a few rhododendon trees initially on the trail, as you climb towards Patangnia top, you see big, tall rhododendron trees towards the ridge. They look outstanding during sunset, with big mountains in the background. 

It's a treat to see such rhododendrons on a short weekend trek like Chirbatiya. Picture by Jothiranjan

2. The forests near Khullara on the Kuari Pass trek: Just as you reach Khullara, the edges of the meadows are laid out with short rhododendron trees. These trees have lighter rhododendrons, more pink than red. They’re laid out in neat lines, and you get a chance to trek beside them.

Light pink rhododendrons are typical of the Kuari Pass trail. These are shorter trees growing at higher altitudes. Picture by Pritish Bhanushali

3. The section between Nayata and Raithal on the Dayara Bugyal trek: On your last day, as you’re descending from Nayata to Raithal, you’re treated to some lovely rhododendron trees. These are classic red and deep pink rhododendrons. While the number of trees is not too large, the density within some trees is mind-boggling. 

Sections of Dayara Bugyal are blooming with rhododendrons in spring

4. The forests near Bedni Bugyal on the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek: On this trek, look out for the forests between Gheroli Patal to Bedni Bugyal. You’ll come across a good section of rhododendron trees here, especially along the edges of the meadows.

The trail towards Bedni Bugyal in spring. Picture by Jothiranjan

Experiencing rhododendrons is rare in our country. Given that they grow only at certain altitudes, specific latitudes, and weather conditions, they are hard to find, not just in our country but anywhere in the world. They are a protected species everywhere. 

So when you have a chance to see them in such resplendent forests, in their natural habitat, and in such abundance, it's an opportunity you must not let go. 

And if you’re a birder or a photographer, then more so. With flowers come birds and butterflies, and as our bird expert says, it's one of the best seasons for bird watching. 

If you'd like to trek during the rhododendron season, plan now before it gets too late.

If you have any questions, drop in a comment below. We'll get back to you.  

Read to find out which are the best rhododendron treks in the Indian Himalayas, when to time them and which sections to watch out for.

Top 5 Rhododendron Treks in the Indian Himalayas

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 15 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 15 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.

The meandering ridge walk gives grand views of Mt Bandarpunch and Mt Kalanag. Picture from the Indiahikes archives.

Surya Top is an extension of our much-loved Dayara Bugyal trek. Trekkers often get teary-eyed upon reaching Dayara meadows on the Dayara Bugyal trek. But Surya Top is a real deal when it comes to experiencing the grandeur of Dayara meadows in its entirety. You trek on the meadows not just for a couple of hours but for two full days! At Devkund, you are at the end of the Dayara meadows. Right behind you are endless stretches of perfectly manicured meadows that extend as far as your eyes can reach. You explore all that Dayara Meadows has to offer. This is only possible when you do the Surya Top Trek.

Spring in the Surya Top Trek starts in mid-March and goes on until the end of April. The snow starts to melt in the upper reaches, while the grass begins to turn green in the lower meadows. Tiny flowers make their heads out of the grass, while rhododendrons bloom on the trees.

The upper reaches of the Surya Top trek are usually covered in snow until mid-April.

Spring is a great time to experience colour contrasts on the meadows and the ridge walk. You see snow, greenery, and the colour of flowers altogether.

Your campsite at Chofu is very unique. You camp on a slope with open views of the valley and the entire Garhwal mountain ranges in front of you. Photo by Nitesh Kumar.

The Spring season is very special in this region of Kumaon. Normally, the forests in any trek need time to blossom into greenery after a harsh winter. This is not the case in Ranthan Kharak. The forests here will be lush green with different varieties of rhododendrons, trees, mushrooms, birds and animals.

You will walk on paths filled with hidden waterfalls, water trickling down your shoulders occasionally as you traverse through thickets till you arrive at Bajimanian Kharak.

As you leave the tree line behind, you come across ridges and ledges with occasional patches of snow. The views of the far-off mountains will not be crystal clear. However, your proximity to them will anyway give you a magnified view.

Be prepared for the cold by packing 4-5 warm layers. Keep your exposed parts warm from chilling winds, especially after crossing Bajimanian Kharak. The kharaks boast of budding green grass with wildflowers sprawling all over it.

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

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.

The Sandakphu – Phalut trek, 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.

Kuari Pass 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.

Dayara Bugyal is 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 Har Ki Dun trek is a 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, the Chirbatiya 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 15 Best Himalayan Treks to do this Spring. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced trekker, there's something for everyone!

15 Best Treks to do this Spring in the Himalayas in 2024

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Himalayan 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. Below are seven winter treks in India that you must do in the upcoming winter.

September is the month when you should start planning your winter trek. It is wise to choose from the best winter treks in India as early as possible, so that you can decide on dates and book your flight tickets at a reasonable price. An early decision helps you prepare physically and mentally for the snow trek.

Use this guide to make a wise choice among the top winter treks in India. Do not miss the pro tips mentioned along with the trek information.

Top 8 Winter Treks to do in the Himalayas

Not all winter treks are snow treks, as India offers a variety of landscapes in different regions. While one can choose from winter treks in Himachal Pradesh, other regions like Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Maharashtra, Pune and Chattisgarh also offer mesmerising options for trekking in the winter.

It is obvious that winter treks in the Himalayas are completely different from winter treks in Maharashtra. However, both regions offer equal opportunities to enjoy and soak in the beauty of nature while simultaneously learning from your surroundings. Here are the seven best winter treks you can do in the winter season.

Also, check out our winter camp for children.

Dayara Bugyal

Duration: 6 days (Including travel to and from the basecamp)

The snow-laden meadows of Dayara on a winter trek. Picture by Ravi Ranjan

This is a trek I love simply because it’s such a relaxing climb and yet gives you such grand returns. You never expect such views and experiences on such an easy trek! Dayara Bugyal Trek is one of the best winter treks in Uttarakhand, thanks to the meadows blanketed in shimmering white snow. It feels like an unending snow trek!

Protip: Given the ease of the climb, it is one of the easiest winter treks for beginners and family groups. But don’t let that stop you if you are an experienced trekker—you can go on this trek ten times and you won’t tyre. I would also recommend it to those who have already seen it in another season. It’s a completely different trek in the winter.

Brahmatal Trek

The frozen lake of Brahmatal. Picture by Devang Thapliyal

Most of the staff at Indiahikes love winter treks. Brahmatal is our co-founder Sandhya’s favourite trek. When she went last year, she stood at the summit with a riveting view of two of the most celebrated mountains—Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti. She also saw the entire Roopkund trail laid out before her—literally a bird’s-eye view. I would highly recommend reading this personal note she wrote after her Brahmatal trek to get an idea. It is one of the perfect winter treks in India when it comes to mountain views.

Brahmatal vs Dayara Bugyal: Which is a better snow trek?

Protip: It is one of the best winter treks in the Himalayas. So, choose this if you want a grand snow experience. Most trekkers come back raving about the snow here. Also, be physically prepared because it has some good climbs.

Deoriatal – Chandrashila Trek

3. Deoriatal – Chandrashila Winter Trek

Trekking to the summit of Chandrashila in winter. Picture by Satyen Dasgupta

Once popular as one of the best winter treks in India, Deoriatal-Chandrashila witnessed a fall in its popularity when the forest department closed some crucial campsites in the recent past. However, winter treks with Indiahikes can never be dull, so we have found new alternative campsites on this grand snow trek.

The trail, of course, remains charming with its vibrant forests, the lake and the climb to the Tungnath temple and Chandrashila summit.

Protip: This trek gives a highly unfair reward for the amount of effort you put in. You get to see almost all the most magnificent peaks in the Indian Himalayas, including Mt. Nanda Devi, India’s highest summit. You get the real experience of winter treks in Uttarakhand, thanks to the never-ending blanket of snow. If the dates suit you, don’t think twice; just go for it.

Kedarkantha

The oak and pine forest on the Kedarkantha trek. Picture by Boppaditya Chandra

Do I need to introduce this trek? This trek exploded in terms of popularity when we opened it up in winter 2011. Since the beginning, Kedarkantha has been among the most popular winter treks. It has endeared campsites and a thrilling summit climb, which makes it one of the most difficult winter treks in India. 

Most trekkers treat it as a bucket list trek, and they’re completely justified because it’s not every day you come across such a perfect winter trek. Here's everything you need to know about Kedarkantha trek.

Protip: We are doing this trek from the Kotgaon route and not from Sankri. This new trail is isolated and it bypasses the crowd. I have to say it is a lot prettier than the older route as well.

Sandakphu – Phalut

Duration: 7 days (Including travel to and from the basecamp)

Molley campsite on Sandakphu Phalut trek in a winter setting. Picture by Dwaipayan Purkait 

If you are not interested in winter treks in Himachal or Uttarakhand, then Sandakphu – Phalut in West Bengal can be the best choice for trekking in the winter. It offers you a strong cultural experience. You get a peek into what the Nepali trekking culture is like. It’s a trek on the border of India and Nepal, constantly weaving in and out of the two countries (feels very international, I tell you!). It feels as if you are doing one of the winter treks in Nepal.

While it’s difficult to do other Nepal winter treks, this one gives you views of four of the tallest mountains in the world—Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu and Mt. Kanchenjunga with moderate climb. No other trek gives you that.

Protip: Not many trekkers know this, but on this trek, you stay in tea houses for a few days, and you also get the Indiahikes camping experience for two days. It’s a great way to experience the best of both worlds. The snow on this trek will give you the feel of winter treks in Kashmir, Uttarakhand or Himachal Pradesh. So do keep that in mind.

Kuari Pass

The summit push to Kuari pass. Picture by Anshuman Kumar

Looking for one of the easy winter treks in India? This should be your choice. Irrespective of you being a seasoned trekker or a beginner the Kuari Pass is a snow 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.

Protip: In winter, there is an added attraction. The snow in its almost perfectly crafted forests. Snowflakes settled on the Oak leaves above a white carpeted forest floor take you instantly to the land which would be Santa Claus’ envy. All this gives you an unmatched winter trekking experience in the Himalayas!

Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek

A bliss of walking along the Gopat river. Picture by Nitesh Kumar

While most winter treks in India are situated in the Himalayas, this one goes through the heart of the dense jungles of Chhattisgarh.

It’s hard for the jungles to not set your imagination ablaze. The jungles constantly transport you to the mysterious world of the jungle book. As you trek to the jungle, you feel the omnipresence of wildlife and tribal life as well. For every trekker, this trek is a must-do.

Manali Kaisdhar Hike

On the Manali Kaisdhar hike, you hike in the best forests of Manali. Photo by Akhil Sharma

At Indiahikes, we want everyone to trek because trekking transforms lives. However, for everyone to trek we need treks that can be done by everyone. 

On the Manali Kaisdhar Trek, the trails are short and flat. There are hardly any tricky sections to navigate. And the best part is that it requires no preparation and can be done by anyone.

The rewards you get out of the Manali Kaisdhar hike are much greater than the effort you put in. In just four days, you get a chance to immerse yourself in nature. You walk in the deep woods dominated by dense coniferous trees, come across a waterfall, walk to the ridge: the highest point of the trek, and get a glimpse of the culture of remote Himalayan villages. If that’s not enough, you are treated to stunning views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges. 

As we come to an end to this list of seven winter treks, we recommend you to explore at least one this year. To enjoy a grand snow experience, you can plan your winter treks in December or any other month till the end of March.

For a hassle-free experience, choose from the list of upcoming treks and book your winter trek with Indiahikes.

If you need help making a decision, drop in a comment below. 

What are some of the most popular winter treks in India at the moment?

Some of the most popular winter treks in India include the Kuari Pass Trek, the Kedarkantha Trek, the Chopta Chandrashila Trek and the Sandakphu Trek. While all these treks are easy for beginners and family groups, Indiahikes offers necessary guidance and helps you prepare mentally and physically for your winter trek.

Which are the best winter treks in India for beginners?

Dayara Bugyal and Brahmatal are among the easy-to-moderate winter treks for beginners. Both of these Uttarakhand treks are equally rewarding, as they offer vast meadows blanketed in shimmering white snow in winter. From Brahmatal summit, you get a view of majestic mountains like Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti.

Here are some of the best winter treks in the Indian Himalayas. Go through the list now and plan your next winter trek with Indiahikes!

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