Introduction
During winters, the mountain trails of the Himalayas get transformed into a beautiful wonderland and are covered under a white sheet of ice all over. Trekking in these snow-covered trails of the most beautiful and exquisite Indian Himalayas is a dream of many adventure lovers and seekers. They are attracting all types of trekkers, enthusiasts and thrill-seekers for long and short treks to enjoy the hidden beauty of the season. Passing through the old forests, crossing the frozen streams and soaking in the most awe-striking views of the snow heaven are just the basic and the most common things offered by the snow treks in India.
Here, we have listed down the top snow treks that are a perfect blend of explorations and thrill and will help both beginners and experienced trekkers to add more destinations in their list.
Nag Tibba Trek, Uttarakhand
Nag Tibba is located at an altitude of approximately 9915 ft in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, near Mussoorie. Situated in the lower Himalayas, sometimes trekkers have to worry about the altitude sickness and it is quite easy for beginners and children. Winter treks to Nag Tibba welcome you with a beautiful blanket full of snow all around. Passing through the Nag Tibba temple, you will end the trek with the majestic and eye-catching view of Garhwal Himalayas.
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 9,915 ft
- Duration: 2 – 5 Days
Kedarkantha Trek, Uttarakhand
Kedarkantha trek is considered one of the best treks from all over the country, and especially this trek is for beginners. Blessed with beautiful snowfall, it becomes a place like heaven during winters, and all you can see are the peaks covered by a thick layer of snow all over. It is a great destination for beginners to get the taste of snow trekking adventure and for nature lovers to soak themselves in the untouched beauty of the Kedarkantha trek. Located at a height of 12,500 ft, the trail covers a distance of around 20 km with stunning mesmerizing views of snow falling over pine trees. Though quite easy and basic fitness physique is required as one needs to carry their backpack and climb into thin air, which may be difficult for some.
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 12,500 ft
- Duration: 6 Days
Chopta, Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek, Uttarakhand
A perfect Snow trek to Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila offers majestic views of many peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba and Kedar. This is the perfect way to start snow trekking adventures and get ready for some future challenges. On this trek, you will get to see eye-catching attractions like Deoria Taal, the Beautiful valley of Chopta enclosed with snow, considered one of the highest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and at last Chopta Chandrashila Summit where the snow trek finally ends.
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 13,123 ft
- Duration: 4 Days
Kuari Pass
Don’t worry if you are a seasoned trekker or a beginner but the Kuari Pass is a trek you need to do once in your lifetime. It is a perfect place for the eye-catching and mesmerizing views of some of India’s most celebrated mountains – Mt Nanda Devi (25,673 feet) and Mt Dronagiri (23,182 feet) – in any season. But especially in winter, there is an added attraction of tourists. The snow almost gets perfectly enclosed by forests. Snowflakes perfectly settled on the Oak leaves above a white carpeted forest floor takes you to the land where probably Santa Claus lives. All this gives you an unmatched winter trekking experience and adventure in the Himalayas!
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 12,516 ft
- Duration: day trek (6 days when you include the travel days from Rishikesh)
Har ki Dun Trek, Uttarakhand
Located in the middle of the heart of beautiful Govind Ballabh Pant National Park, Har ki Dun Trek takes you back in time as you visit the cradle-shaped valley. It is an amazing winter wonderland, and a heaven-like place for trekkers as the beautiful, untouched valley offers many ways to trek. Trekking across the enchanting lush meadows and pine forests, you pass through ancient villages that are over more than 3,000 years old. Along with adventure and fun, you get to explore the culture, beauty and lifestyle of the locals of the valley.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 11,811 ft
- Duration: 9 Days