Best Winter Treks in India

Trekking in winter is an experience like no other.

For many trekkers, snow is the dream. And every winter, we hear the same excited question — “When will it snow?”

There’s something magical about walking on trails blanketed in fresh snow, with forests draped under a thick white canopy. It’s calm, it’s peaceful, and yet, it feels alive in a way that only winter can bring.

Winter trekking in India is growing in popularity, and more and more people are heading out to catch this magic for themselves. 

But before you lace up your boots, here’s what you need to know.

Trekking in winter isn’t just about showing up with jackets and boots. It’s about preparation and awareness. 

The right gear, proper layering, and knowing your trail — these aren’t optional.

Winter in the Himalayas runs from December to February. During this time, everything changes. Temperatures drop, days are shorter, and some sections of the trail get slippery or tricky.

And one thing to clear up — it doesn’t snow all the time. Snowfall isn’t uniform. Some regions get heavy blankets, others just a light dusting. Understanding what to expect on your trail makes all the difference.

Use this guide to pick your winter trek the right way — prepared, practical, and confident.

Winter Treks by Inidahikes

What are the best Himalayan winter treks in India?

In the past decade, winter trekking in the Indian Himalayas has grown steadily and become a mainstream choice for trekkers. Out of the five trekking seasons we run in a year, winter consistently sees the highest participation.

Snow is there, yes—but that’s not what makes these treks remarkable. While snow appears on almost all the treks we’ll mention, each of these made it to our list because it has its own character.

Over the years, we’ve led, explored, and trekked on many winter trails. And here are six Himalayan Winter Treks that stand out—tested over time, chosen by trekkers, and backed by experience.

What are the best Himalayan winter treks in India?

In the past decade, winter trekking in the Indian Himalayas has grown steadily and become a mainstream choice for trekkers. Out of the five trekking seasons we run in a year, winter consistently sees the highest participation.

Snow is there, yes—but that’s not what makes these treks remarkable. While snow appears on almost all the treks we’ll mention, each of these made it to our list because it has its own character.

Over the years, we’ve led, explored, and trekked on many winter trails. And here are six Himalayan Winter Treks that stand out—tested over time, chosen by trekkers, and backed by experience.

1. Kedarkantha Trek (Winter Trek in Uttarakhand)

Kedarkantha is the classic winter trek of the Himalayas. First imagined and documented as a Winter Trek by Indiahikes in 2011, it is now India’s most popular trekking destination in winter. We love the trek for its thrilling summit climb, snow-covered forests, and stunning campsites.

• Duration: 6 days (including travel days)
• Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
• Altitude: 12,500 ft
• Why in Winter? Offers classic snow-laden forest trails and a dramatic summit climb with views, fully transformed under snow from December to February
• Ideal For: First-timers and families seeking a rewarding winter summit climb with manageable technical challenge 

2. Brahmatal Trek (Winter Trek in Uttarakhand)

The Brahmatal trek ascends through snow-laden forests, past the lakes of Bekaltal and Brahmatal, and onto a thrilling summit. Watch out for the ridge walk on this trek with terrific views of Mt Nanda Ghunti and Mt Trishul.

• Duration: 6 days (including travel) 
• Difficulty: Easy–Moderate 
• Altitude: 12,250 ft
• Why in Winter? For the frozen lake to walk beside and the snow-covered mountains that rise sharp against the sky. 
• Ideal For: Beginners with reasonable fitness; groups or families seeking scenic winter treks with grandeur in solitude 

3. Dayara Bugyal Trek (Winter Trek in Uttarakhand)

For anyone seeking a beginner-friendly Himalayan experience, Dayara Bugyal stands out. Easy trails lead to stunning meadows, charming forests, and magnificent mountain views. The rewards on this trek far outweigh the amount of effort you need to put in, making it the perfect trek for families with kids.

• Duration: 6 days (including travel) 
• Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
• Altitude: Peaks around 11,830 ft 
• Why in Winter? For the experience of walking on wide meadows, all covered in snow.
• Ideal For: Beginners and families looking for a gentle, visually stunning trek in serene winter meadows 

4. Kuari Pass Trek (Winter Trek in Uttarakhand)

Kuari Pass is a trek that takes you to a grand amphitheatre set in the Garhwal Himalayas. It offers some of Uttarakhand's most breathtaking mountain views, including the rare sight of Mt. Nanda Devi. From the start of the trek, you are greeted with incredible views of Mt. Dronagiri, beautiful oak forests, and vast meadows.

• Duration: 6 days (including travel) 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Altitude: 12,516 ft
• Why in Winter? For the oak forests covered in snow, with clear views of big Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi and Dronagiri — all looking especially beautiful under the winter skies.
• Ideal For: First-time trekkers and nature lovers drawn to high-altitude views and peaceful forest snow settings 

5. Aancha Top Trek (Winter Trek in Uttarakhand)

Aancha Top is a hidden gem in Yamunotri, one of the few Himalayan summits accessible in winter. While we love the forests on the trek, it’s the summit day that stands out. In a single day, you pass glacial lakes, meadows, and walk along a narrow ridge to the summit. At the top, you stand surrounded by some of the grandest peaks of the Himalayas.

• Duration: 6 days 
• Difficulty: Easy–Moderate 
• Altitude: 12,500 ft 
• Why in Winter? The fact that it sits close to the Yamunotri Valley is reason enough. The mountains here open up in wide, sweeping views — and in winter, the clarity and snow make them even more striking 
• Ideal For: Trekkers seeking lesser-known, quieter treks with grand views in winter 

6. Sandakphu Phalut Trek (Winter Trek in West Bengal)

Sandakphu is a unique trek that straddles India and Nepal. You walk through the exquisite forests of Singalila National Park, camp across borders, and trek amongst grand views of some of the world’s highest mountain peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu.

• Duration: 7 days (including travel) 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Altitude: Around 11,930 ft 
• Why in Winter? Winter here is not about heavy snow like you see on other treks. Instead, it’s the cold, crisp air that opens up sweeping views of the Everest range. Add to that the drama of walking above a sea of clouds, and the unique culture you get to experience along the way
• Ideal For: Adventure seekers who want to witness the Himalayas’ highest peaks and cultural richness in the eastern Himalayas during winter 

7. Deoriatal Chandrashila (Winter Trek in Uttarakhand)

Most treks give you terrific views from the summit. But Deoriatal Chandrashila will spoil you with astounding views of the massive Chaukhamba massif right on Day One. And at Chandrashila, you are greeted by a sweeping panorama of both Garhwal and Kumaon’s most iconic mountain ranges, making it one of the grandest.

• Duration: 6 days (including travel)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Altitude: Summit at 12,000 ft
• Why in Winter? In winter, the forests on this trail turn white with snow. The climb to Chandrashila opens up grand views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and the big mountains all around. And with Deoriatal Lake sitting quietly, the trek looks its most striking between December and March.
• Ideal for: Trekkers who want an easy start to winter trekking — the kind where you walk through snowy forests, climb to a summit, and return with grand views of Nanda Devi.

Where else can I trek in winters?

If snow is the only thing you’re chasing, then the Himalayas are where you should be.

But if snow isn’t everything when you think of a winter trek, then we have something refreshing for you — treks in Central India.

The cooler months are one of the best seasons to step into these jungles. In fact, if anything comes close to the magic of trekking in the Himalayas in winter, it’s this.

Take the Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek, for instance. The Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek takes you deep into Guru Ghasidas National Park—through ancient forests, prehistoric caves, golden lakes, and crystal-clear rivers. Rarely trekked and protected by the forest department, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime walk through India’s untamed wilderness. The forests here come alive in the crisp winter air, making the experience calm and deeply pleasant

Or the Pench Tiger Trail. It takes you through the forests that inspired The Jungle Book. It’s a trek where teak forests, grasslands, and riverbeds reveal the raw beauty of Central India. If you’re lucky, you may even trace the paths of tigers, leopards, and wild dogs in their natural home. January is the coldest month here, with night temperatures dropping to around 5 °C. It’s cold enough to want your thermals at night, yet comfortable enough to enjoy the trek during the day.

Central India may not give you snow, but it gives you something just as rare — the chance to walk through wild, untouched forests when they’re at their best.

Can beginners do winter treks?

If you’re a beginner wondering whether winter treks are for you, the answer is yes — absolutely. The snow does add a little challenge, but with the right mindset and a reasonable level of fitness, you can safely attempt them.

In fact, winter treks are some of the most rewarding experiences you can have as a first-time trekker. Treks like Kedarkantha, Brahmatal, and Dayara Bugyal give you everything that makes a Himalayan trek special — snowy trails, forest walks, snow-laden campsites, and the grandest mountain views. At the same time, these are designed to be accessible. They spare you from the tougher risks of very high altitude or extremely steep climbs.

But it wasn’t always like this. A decade ago, winter trekking wasn’t even a thing in India. Only seasoned trekkers dared to step out in the snow. But once Indiahikes explored Kedarkantha in winter, it changed everything. It showed that winter treks could be safe, doable, and deeply memorable even for beginners. And from there, winter trekking opened up to thousands of people who had never thought of themselves as trekkers before.

Today, winter treks stand as some of the best options for beginners to take their first steps into the world of trekking. They challenge you just enough to prepare you for bigger adventures, while ensuring that your first experience leaves you inspired, not intimidated.

What are the best months for winter trekking in India?

When we talk about the best months for winter trekking, it’s usually December to February. But there’s a lot of confusion around this. Many trekkers ask us — What exactly is the Big Snow Season?

Here’s the context. In December, there is very little snow on most trails. Sometimes, there may not be any snow at all. What you do get is the feel of winter — colder days, frosty mornings, and the clarity of mountain views. 

December gives you the taste of winter, but it’s not yet the full snow experience many trekkers imagine.

That changes in January and February. By then, the snow has built up over weeks. Trails are covered, campsites turn white, and you stand a chance of seeing snowfall while you trek. This is what we call the Big Snow Season. This is when winter treks come into their own. The trails are under snow, the campsites turn white, and the trek takes on that sense of adventure that only snow can bring.

So if you want just the winter atmosphere, December works. But if your dream is to trek in real snow, January and February are the months to mark on your calendar.

What are the best winter treks in Uttarakhand?

Ever since winter trekking became popular, there’s been a handful of treks that have stood out. These are trails that trekkers rave about, and frankly, we love them too.

Now, Uttarakhand is at the heart of this. The state has some of the most beautiful winter landscapes you can imagine — forests heavy with snow, meadows that open up like white playgrounds, and that rare stillness that only a winter trek can give you.

So if you’re looking at Uttarakhand this season, we’ve put together a list of the best winter treks you can do.

Now, this isn’t just a list of Indiahikes treks. You’ll find treks that we run, yes. But you’ll also see treks we’ve only documented — trails that you can attempt on your own in a DIY style. And that’s deliberate.

Because for us at Indiahikes, trekking has always been about accessibility. Not just taking people on treks, but giving them the right information so they can step out into the mountains safely on their own too. Information, after all, is the first step to making trekking truly accessible for everyone.

Kedarkantha Trek 

Brahmatal Trek 

Dayara Bugyal Trek 

Kuari Pass Trek 

Aancha Top Trek 

Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek

Budha Kedar Trek (Documented Trek)

Hanol Trek (Documented Trek)

George Everest Peak Trek (Documented Trek)

Landour – Lal Tibba Trek (Documented Trek)

What trekking gear do I need for a winter trek?

On a winter trek, your gear is your lifeline. Every single item plays a role in keeping you safe, warm, and comfortable on the trail. Here’s the full list, along with why it matters:

Warm Layers and Clothes for Winter Trek

• Layering system — This is what keeps you warm. Instead of one bulky jacket, wear multiple light layers. You can add or remove them depending on how cold it gets.
• Winter: 5 layers (1 pair of thermals, 1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
• 3 collared T-shirts — Collared tees protect your neck from sunburn, especially at high altitude.
• 2 quick-dry trek pants — Unlike jeans or cotton pants, these dry fast and don’t get heavy if wet.

Shoes and Backpack for Winter Trek

• Trekking shoes with ankle support  — Regular sports shoes won’t do. Trekking shoes give you grip on snow and rocks, and ankle support saves you from twists on uneven ground.
• Backpack with rain cover  — A 55–60L backpack with good support makes carrying your load easier. The rain cover keeps your gear dry in snow or rain.

Accessories for Winter Trek

• Sunglasses — Essential in the snow. Snow blindness is a real risk if you trek without them.
• Sun cap, preferably with flaps — Protects your face and neck from the harsh mountain sun.
• Waterproof gloves — Regular woollen gloves will get wet in snow. Waterproof ones keep your hands dry and warm.
• Waterproof socks (highly recommended in snow) — They stop melted snow from seeping in, which prevents frostbite and blisters.
• Balaclava — Keeps your face and ears warm in biting winds.
• Woollen socks (2 pairs dry-fit + 1 pair woollen) — Layering socks helps keep your feet warm at night.
• Headlamp — A torch isn’t enough. You need your hands free while trekking at night or in the early morning.
• Trekking pole — Saves your knees on descents and gives stability on snowy or uneven ground.
• Rain jacket + pants/poncho — Keeps you dry in snow or sudden showers. Staying dry is the first step to staying warm.

Toiletries for Winter Trek

• Sunscreen — The mountain sun burns fast, especially with snow reflecting light back.
• Moisturiser — Prevents skin from drying and cracking in the cold.
• Light towel — Bulky towels don’t dry quickly; a small microfiber one works best.
• Lip balm or Vaseline — Chapped lips are unavoidable without this.
• Toilet paper — Wet wipes are not allowed on our treks; they don’t decompose in the mountains.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Reusable plastic covers — Keeps wet or used clothes separate inside your backpack.

Cutlery for Winter Trek

• Steel lunch box — Plastic boxes crack in the cold; steel lasts.
• Spoon and coffee mug — Essential for all meals.
• Two water bottles or hydration pack — Staying hydrated is critical in the mountains; bottles are easier to refill on the trail.

Are winter treks safe?

Winter treks are safe—if you're mindful

Trekking in winter isn’t about braving the cold just for the thrill. It’s not about being fearless—it’s about being prepared, aware, and informed. 

The mountains in winter can be unpredictable. Temperatures drop sharply, and sections of the trail can become slippery or more challenging than you expect. That’s why the right gear, proper layering, and an understanding of the terrain aren’t optional—they are essential. 

Winter trekking is about making decisions that keep you safe while letting you enjoy the trek.

Trekking Expertly in Snow

Snow isn’t uniform, and understanding the type beneath your feet is key to trekking safely.

Powdery snow is soft and fresh, the kind you sink into slightly with each step. It isn’t slippery, but moving through it takes more energy. The trick is short, steady steps and using trekking poles for balance.

Packed snow is firmer because it’s been walked on or partially melted and refrozen. It’s easier to walk on than powder, but it can be slippery on slopes. On packed snow, deliberate steps, trekking poles, and sometimes crampons or microspikes make a big difference.

Icy patches are hard, shiny, and the trickiest to navigate. Falling can happen quickly here, so patience and focus are critical. Keep your centre of gravity low, take careful, small steps, and rely on poles or spikes for support.

Understanding these differences and adjusting your pace, steps, and gear accordingly isn’t complicated—it’s practical trekking. With the right approach, every type of snow becomes manageable, and your winter trek stays safe, steady, and enjoyable.

Our Commitment to Your Safety

At Indiahikes, we don’t just lead treks; we make sure you’re fully equipped with knowledge, skills, equipments, and guidance to handle winter conditions. 

Our trek leaders and guides are trained to manage emergencies, and pre-trek briefings prepare you for every challenge you might face on the trail. 

Winter trekking is about being mindful, prepared, and confident—and that’s exactly what we enable every trekker to be.

How to choose the right winter trek?

Most people imagine winter treks as one uniform picture. That’s true to an extent, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Each trek changes character in winter. 

On some trails, like Kedarkantha or Dayara Bugyal, the snow makes the final stretch feel more rewarding. On others, like Sandakphu, it’s less about snow and more about the grandstand views of the world’s tallest mountains. 

Kuari Pass and Brahmatal balance both — big mountain views, steady snow under your feet. And then there are trails like Ancha Top, where you step into a calmer side of winter, away from the usual crowds.

So if you’re wondering where to go, here’s how to choose wisely from the best winter treks in India.

For Beginners

If you’re new to trekking, start with trails that are forgiving yet rewarding. Early December to mid-December is a safe time to begin — trails are open, snow is lighter, and the weather is less harsh.

Dayara Bugyal Trek

Dayara is all about its vast open meadows that turn into snowfields in winter. It’s an easy trail to walk, which makes it a good choice if you want a rewarding trek without steep climbs.

Kedarkantha Trek

Kedarkantha stands out because it gives trekkers a true summit climb in just a few days. The trail is short, the difficulty is easy-moderate, and the sense of accomplishment is high.

Ancha Top Trek

Ancha Top is a calmer trail. You walk through snow-filled forests and remote campsites, without the crowd you usually see on popular winter treks.

For Mountain Views

Winter skies are at their sharpest from mid-December to the end of December, which makes this the best time to chase big views.

Brahmatal Trek

Brahmatal is special because of its vantage points. From the high points on the trek, you see Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti up close, while the frozen Brahmatal Lake sits in the foreground.

Kuari Pass Trek

Kuari is a historic pass trek, and in winter it becomes a front-row seat to Mt. Nanda Devi, India’s highest mountain, along with a sweep of the Garhwal range. The mix of ridges and clearings makes these views stand out.

Kedarkantha Trek

Kedarkantha gives you a summit climb that ends with 360° mountain views. Peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch open up around you — a big reward packed into a short, doable trek.

SandakPhu Phalut Trek

If you’re chasing mountain views, Sandakphu is unmatched. You see the entire Sleeping Buddha range, with four of the world’s tallest peaks lined up in front of you — Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga, all in one sweep.

Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek

The summit of Chandrashila gives you sweeping panoramas of the Garhwal Himalayas. Peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba rise sharply around you, while the Deoriatal Lake below adds a striking foreground to the high-altitude view.

For Snow Lovers

From January to mid-March, the Himalayas move into what we call the big snow season. This is when snow piles up deep on the trails.

Kedarkantha Trek

Snow settles here early. By late December or early January, you’ll find yourself walking through forests and clearings where every step is on snow. Even the summit push becomes a full snow climb.

Brahmatal Trek

This trek is known for its heavy snow cover in January and February. The trails to the frozen lake cut through dense oak and pine forests, and every section is laid thick with snow.

Dayara Bugyal Trek

The meadows here turn into vast snowfields. It’s not just one section — you walk for hours on open snow slopes, which makes it one of the safest treks to experience snow.

Kuari Pass Trek

Once winter sets in, Kuari’s ridges hold snow for weeks together. You’re walking long stretches on snow, with steady climbs and descents that make it a complete winter experience.

Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek

Usually by January, the forest trails and summit push are fully snow-covered. It’s solid snow trekking, manageable, and scenic without being over the top.

If snow is what you’re chasing, this is the season, and these are the treks.

For Families

Families need treks that are safe, accessible, and still give a sense of adventure. Early December to mid-December is the best window — trails are clearer, snow is minimal, and temperatures are easier to manage.

Dayara Bugyal Trek

Dayara is one of the easiest treks for families — the trails are gentle, and the climbs never feel overwhelming.

Kedarkantha Trek

Kedarkantha works beautifully for families because the days are short and the pace is steady. Reaching the summit together gives everyone — parents and children alike — that sense of achievement to carry home.

These are treks where families can experience the joy of winter without the overwhelm.

For Culture Seekers

Winter doesn’t always have to mean camping in remote snowfields. Some treks bring in the richness of local culture alongside the landscapes.

Sandakphu Phalut Trek

Sandakphu is not just about the big mountain views. It’s a tea-house trek where you walk right along the Indo-Nepal border, share stories with locals, and experience a culture that’s woven deeply into the mountains.

Kuari Pass Trek

Kuari takes you through age-old oak forests and traditional Garhwali hamlets, where life still follows a rhythm set by the mountains. The shepherd huts along the way give you a glimpse into a lifestyle that has remained unchanged for generations.

These treks show you winter in the Himalayas isn’t just about snow — it’s also about the lives and landscapes that thrive alongside it.

What to expect on a winter trek?

Weather

Winter is cold — there’s no way around it. Temperatures drop fast as you climb, and the weather can shift in hours. 

Some days are clear, others bring snow or strong winds. The key is to expect the unexpected and be prepared, always.

Trail Conditions

Snow, ice, or bare paths — you’ll see all of it. Trails get slower in winter; even familiar stretches can become tricky.

Poles, microspikes, and careful steps aren’t optional — they’re how you keep moving safely.

Campsites

Camping will be unique — often set under a layer of snow.

Nights are cold, sometimes sharp, and tents need to be secured well. A warm sleeping bag and layered bedding aren’t luxuries — they’re essentials.

Challenge

Winter treks test planning and awareness more than stamina. Shorter daylight, snow-laden trails, and cold nights mean you move deliberately, stay alert, and make decisions with care. 

It’s about trekking smart, not just tough.

Why choose Indiahikes for winter treks?

Winter treks are not just pretty—they test your planning, your preparation, and your grit. And that’s exactly why Indiahikes matters.

We didn’t just start leading treks; we built winter trekking in India from the ground up. But what we care about most isn’t just leading—it’s doing it right.

It begins with people. Our trek leaders, guides, and support staff aren’t here just to show the trail. They are trained to act fast, to rescue when needed, especially in winter conditions where the unexpected can happen at any moment.

Then come processes. Every trail we lead is recce’d before the season. We cut routes where snow is too heavy. We have evacuation plans, protocols for emergencies, and systems that make sure the trek is smooth without compromising safety.

And equipment. The right gear isn’t optional. It’s what keeps every trekker safe and every trek possible.

With Indiahikes, you trek the right way. Mindful. Prepared. Grounded. Safety comes first—always. That’s why people choose us.

What should be my budget for a winter trek?

There’s a set trek fee for every winter trek, listed clearly on our trek information page. 

This applies to treks in the Himalayas as well as central treks, and it stays the same throughout the year.

It’s a common myth that winter treks cost extra — they don’t. The only additional expense is seasonal gear, but that’s easy to manage. 

You can rent what you need from the Cross Trek store; no need to spend more than necessary.

List of best winter treks in India

This is our handpicked list of the best winter treks in India. You’ll find treks from Uttarakhand, a few gems from Himachal, and Sandakphu from the Eastern Himalayas.

Read through

Kedarkantha Trek (Uttarakhand)

Brahmatal Trek (Uttarakhand)

Dayara Bugyal Trek (Uttarakhand)

Kuari Pass Trek (Uttarakhand)

Aancha Top Trek (Uttarakhand)

Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek (Uttarakhand)

SandakPhu - Phalut Trek (West Bengal)

Budha Kedar (Documented Trek - Uttarakhand)

Hanol Trek (Documented Trek - Uttarakhand)

George Everest Peak Trek (Documented Trek - Uttarakhand)

Landour – Lal Tibba Trek (Documented Trek - Uttarakhand)

Mural Danda Trek (Documented Trek - Himachal Pradesh)

Bijli Mahadev To Naggar Trek (Documented Trek - Himachal Pradesh)