Best Winter Treks in India

Team Walking The Himalayas
16 hours ago
14 min read

List of Winter Treks in India:

Kedarkantha Winter Trek — the classic snow summit
Kuari Pass Winter Trek — panoramic meadows and Nanda Devi views
Brahmatal Winter Trek — frozen alpine lakes and Trishul views
Dayara Bugyal Winter Trek — a sweep of white alpine meadows
Bedni (Ali Bedni) Bugyal Winter Trek — twin meadows and Khobal Tal
Dodital (Dodital–Darwa Top) Winter Trek — a wilder, higher-altitude outing
Chopta – Tungnath – Deoriatal (with Chandrashila) — short & sweet winter classic

Winter in the Indian Himalaya is a different world — alpine meadows turned into endless white, crystalline silence, frosted forests, frozen lakes, and a rare feeling of isolation that only the colder months can give. For trekkers who love snow-scaped panoramas and starry, bone-dry winter skies, several treks in Uttarakhand (and nearby Himalayan belts) provide spectacular winter experiences without technical mountaineering. This long-form guide covers seven of the best winter treks in India: what makes each special in winter, practical itineraries, difficulty, gear, safety tips, how to reach, permit details, and suggested packing. Whether you’re a beginner keen to try snow-trekking or a seasoned trekker looking for a serene winter escape, read on — this is your winter-trek playbook.

Why trek in winter? (And why these treks)

Winter treks are not just about snow; they’re about quieter trails, dramatic light, and landscapes freed from crowds. Many summer meadows turn into wide, empty plains of snow; forest trails that are full of rhododendrons in summer become a stark cathedral of deodar and pine, dusted with rime.

Some advantages:

Cleaner skies and crystal-clear views of big Himalayan faces.
Far fewer trekkers — solitude and calm.
Unique experiences such as camping on snow, frozen lakes and sunrise over frosty ridgelines.

Quick comparison — at a glance

Kedarkantha Winter Trek — Iconic “queen of winter treks”: classic summit, pine forests, and panoramic ridge views; excellent first snow-trek.
Kuari Pass (Tali/Gorson Bugyal) Winter Trek — Wide meadows and majestic Nanda Devi views; spectacular snowy meadows with relatively gentle ascents.
Brahmatal Winter Trek — Two alpine lakes and dramatic Trishul/Summit views; superb for snow fields and frozen lakes.
Dayara Bugyal Winter Trek — Vast high-altitude meadows turned into an alpine desert of white; gorgeous 360° mountain panoramas.
Bedni (Ali Bedni) Bugyal Winter Trek — Twin meadows with views of the Garhwal giants; quieter than some meadows and beautiful in snow.
Dodital (Dodital–Darwa Top) Winter Trek — Forested valley to a high-altitude alpine lake and then the Darwa Top; deeper wilderness experience and higher altitude.
Chopta–Tungnath with Deoriatal — Short, crowd-friendly winter trek options; Tungnath’s Shiva temple and the Chandrashila summit are magical when dusted with snow.

The rest of this guide unpacks each trek in detail, plus general winter-travel logistics and safety. But winter also brings hazards: deep snow, colder temps, shorter daylight, greater chances of weather-induced delays, and the need for extra winter gear and skills (snow walking, use of microspikes/crampons if required, layered insulation, avalanche awareness in high-risk zones). That’s why the treks listed below by Team Walking The Himalayas were chosen — they give memorable winter scenery while remaining non-technical and achievable for fit beginners and intermediate trekkers when properly guided.

Kedarkantha Winter Trek — the classic snow summit

Why winter?

Kedarkantha is widely considered the archetypal winter trek in Uttarakhand: a clear summit (Kedarkantha Top) with panoramic views of the Bandarpoonch–Black Peak range, wide snow fields on the summit plateau and camping under stars. The trail goes through dense pine and oak forests and is known for consistent snow cover from December through March. It’s beginner-friendly but incredibly rewarding.

Kedarkantha Top - Kedarkantha Trek — Kedarkantha Trek

Key facts

Duration: Typical 6-day itinerary (including approach days).
Highest altitude: ~12,500 ft (≈3,810 m).
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate; suitable for beginners with good fitness when accompanied by guides.

Sample 6-day itinerary (concise)

Day 1: Delhi/Rishikesh → Sankri (drive)

Day 2: Sankri → Juda Ka Talab / JKT (trek start)

Day 3: Juda Ka Talab → Kedarkantha Base (intermediate campsite)

Day 4: Acclimatization / short hikes

Day 5: Summit Kedarkantha Top → descend to camp

Day 6: Return to Sankri and drive out

Highlights

Sunrise from Kedarkantha top: a sweeping panorama of peaks and ridgelines.
Snow camping on open ridges.
Gentle, well-marked trails through pine forests — excellent for learning snow walking.

Who is it for?

Beginners who want a true snow experience; groups and families (older children can do it too).

Permits & logistics

Trek permits and forest/park fees are typically handled by the operator. Sankri is the usual base village; road access is by shared jeeps or private vehicles from Dehradun/Rishikesh.

Tips

Start training with regular hill walks and cardio; 4–5 hours of daily hiking ability is useful.
Carry insulated boots and microspikes; days can be sticky in deep powder but firm on sunny spells.
Use layered clothing and a good sleeping bag rated for winter conditions.

Kuari Pass Winter Trek — panoramic meadows and Nanda Devi views

Why winter?

Kuari Pass (sometimes called Curzon Trail) gives perhaps the most dramatic frontal views of Nanda Devi and the Nanda Devi Sanctuary range. In winter, the meadows (Gorson Bugyal and nearby stretches) become huge snowfields with a wide, open feel — perfect for photographers. The trail alternates forest sections and open meadows, and Gulling Top / Tali are famous viewpoints.

Key facts

Duration: Approx. 5–7 days for winter itineraries (including approach).
Highest altitude: Around 3,800–3,900 m (≈12,500–12,800 ft) at Kuari/nearby high points.
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate; snow makes some sections more demanding but non-technical.

Typical 6-day winter itinerary

Day 1: Dehradun → Joshimath/Gopeshwar → Auli or Khulara (if using cable-car roads)

Day 2: Trek to Gorson/Tali camps (trek into meadows)

Day 3: Tali → Kuari Pass → camp

Day 4: Return via Gulling Top → Tali

Day 5–6: Transfer back to base towns and onward travel

Highlights

Breathtaking frontal view of Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Chaukhamba.
Meadows that in winter become wide, clean slopes, optimum for snow play and long views.
The trail includes lush forests and gentle ridgelines — very scenic and photographable.

Who is it for?

Intermediate trekkers and beginner groups that are comfortable walking in snow. Because of the altitude and occasional deep drifts, organized groups with guides are recommended.

Tips

Expect cold nights; pack a -10°C rated sleeping bag at least.
Snowshoeing or microspikes may be needed in fresh snow.
Check road-cuts and winter access — in heavy snowfall, approach roads can be affected.

Brahmatal Winter Trek — frozen alpine lakes and Trishul views

Why winter?

Brahmatal is special because the route leads to high alpine lakes (Brahmatal and Bekaltal) and provides outstanding views of peaks like Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. In winter, both lakes freeze and the surrounding meadows create expansive white plains — excellent for photography and peaceful camps. The route is a top choice for trekkers seeking sustained snow scenery without technical climbing.

Key facts

Duration: Typically 6 days.
Highest altitude: ~12,250 ft (≈3,730 m).
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate; sustained snowfields but non-technical routes.

Typical 6-day itinerary

Day 1: Drive to Lohajung (base)

Day 2: Lohajung → Trek to first camp (Didna/other)

Day 3: Trek to Brahmatal base (wooded to alpine transition)

Day 4: Brahmatal summit/plateau → camp at Bekaltal or Brahmatal

Day 5: Return to the Lohajung area

Day 6: Drive out

Highlights

Two frozen lakes in winter — surreal mirrored ice and snowfields.
Broad ridges offering uninterrupted views of the Trishul massif.
The mixture of oak/rhododendron forests and open high meadows provides variety.

Who is it for?

Trekkers with basic winter experience; families with older teens; photographers.

Tips

Expect strong winds at higher ridges; windproof layers are essential.
Keep extra warm headgear and several insulating layers for summit day.
Trek agencies usually time trip windows carefully to maximize snow conditions and safety.

Dayara Bugyal Winter Trek — a sweep of white alpine meadows

Why winter?

Dayara Bugyal is one of the largest high-altitude meadows (bugyals) in Uttarakhand. In winter, it becomes an almost endless alpine desert of snow — walking there feels like crossing a lunar plain with a Himalayan skyline. The place is vast (tens of sq km of meadows) and offers enormous panoramas of the Garhwal Himalaya.

Key facts

Duration: Often organized as a 5–6 day trek.
Highest altitude: Around 11,800 ft (≈3,600 m) on the bugyal.
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate; large open expanses but generally gentle gradients.

Sample itinerary (short)

Day 1: Drive to Bhatwari / Raithal → trek to base

Day 2–3: Ascend across rhododendron and oak to Dayara Bugyal; explore and camp

Day 4: High-point sunrise and return

Highlights

Wide open snowfields — ideal for long, quiet walks and snow photography.
Butter festival (local cultural event) is celebrated historically at Dayara in late summer; winter is quieter and more pristine.

Who is it for?

Beginners and groups who want an easy but visually epic winter experience.

Tips

Dayara is exposed — winter winds can be strong; choose campsites carefully.
If you want solitude, go in mid-Jan to Feb when fewer groups operate.

Bedni (Ali Bedni) Bugyal Winter Trek — twin meadows and Khobal Tal

Why winter?

Ali Bedni (often called Ali Bedni Bugyal or Bedni Bugyal) features twin alpine meadows and small high-altitude lakes. In winter it’s comparatively quieter than some mainstream treks and rewards trekkers with pristine meadows and views of Trishul and other Garhwal peaks.

Bedni Bugyal Trek — Bedni Bugyal in Winter

Key facts

Duration: Typical 6-day treks from Rishikesh/Chopta region to Lohajung/Lohajung nearby routes.
Highest altitude: Around 12,550 ft (≈3,825 m) at higher points on the route.
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate; similar to other meadows treks with gradual ascents.

Highlights

Less crowded meadows with the chance to see freeze-over small lakes like Khobal Tal.
Close proximity to Roopkund route variations; great for combining treks (season and logistics permitting).

Tips

Combine with Roopkund season plans in shoulder months; in deep winter, approach roads are slower.
Keep layered warm clothing for long exposure on meadow tops.

Dodital (Dodital–Darwa Top) Winter Trek — a wilder, higher-altitude outing

Why winter?

Dodital is a crystal-clear alpine lake with a strong local legend and serenity. The full Dodital–Darwa Top itinerary continues beyond the lake to Darwa Top (~4,150 m), offering a significant altitude gain and remote high-ridge views. In winter, the trek crosses deep forests, gains high ridge lines and gives you a real sense of wilderness in the snow. Note: Darwa Top reaches higher altitudes and can involve tougher winter walking and greater risk of weather delays — choose experienced operators.

Key facts

Duration: 6–8 days, depending on approach and whether Darwa Top is included.
Highest altitude: Up to ~4,150 m (Darwa Top) if you do the full Darwa pass extension.
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging in winter (higher altitude, longer days, potential deep snow).

Typical itinerary (Dodital + Darwa Top)

Day 1: Drive to Agoda/Agoda village (trek start)

Day 2: Trek to Sangamchatti / Manjhi

Day 3: Manjhi → Dodital (lake)Day 4: Acclimatization or short day

Day 5: Dodital → Darwa Top (summit day) and back to camp

Day 6–7: Return trek out to roadhead and drive back

Highlights

Dodital’s emerald lake framed by deodar/pine forests; in winter the shoreline is surreal with frost and snow.
Darwa Top provides a dramatic high-altitude viewpoint above 4,000 m.

Who is it for?

Experienced trekkers comfortable in higher-altitude winter conditions; groups with specialized winter guides.

Tips

Darwa Top involves higher altitude and requires careful acclimatization planning.
Snow shelters and tents must be good for sub-zero camping nights.

Chopta – Tungnath – Deoriatal (with Chandrashila) — short & sweet winter classic

Why winter?

The Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila combination is a short-duration gem. Tungnath temple (one of the highest Shiva temples) and Chandrashila summit provide brilliant sunrise and 360° views, and the nearby Deoria Tal is a placid high-altitude lake that shines like a mirror on clear winter mornings. The route is accessible, can be done over a long weekend, and is often used for winter introductions.

Key facts

Duration: 2–4 days, depending on whether you include Deoriatal/Deoria Tal and the full Chandrashila summit.
Highest altitude: Chandrashila ~ 4,000 m (Chandrashila summit is ~4,000 m, Tungnath ~3,680 m — exact numbers vary by source).
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate; high exposure on summits but non-technical.

Typical plan

Day 1: Drive to Chopta; trek a short distance to Chopta base; camp

Day 2: Trek to Tungnath → Chandrashila summit for sunrise → return to Chopta

Optional add-on

Day 3: Drive to Sari/Deoriatal and trek to Deoriatal Lake.

Highlights

Tungnath temple covered in snow is a striking sight.
Chandrashila sunrise: massive panoramic exposures to Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi and peaks of Garhwal.
Deoria Tal reflects Chandrashila and Tungnath on a still winter morning — spectacular photography.

Tips

The final stretch to Chandrashila can be icy; microspikes are recommended.
For Deoria Tal, early mornings are best for mirror reflections; in winter the lake may partly freeze.

How to choose the right winter trek for you

Ask yourself:

Experience: Are you comfortable walking in snow for several hours daily? If not, start with Kedarkantha or Dayara.
Altitude tolerance: Dodital (Darwa Top) reaches higher altitudes — choose it only if you have experience and acclimatization.
Time available: Chopta–Tungnath/Deoriatal can be done on a short break; others need 6–8 days.
Crowds vs solitude: Kuari and Kedarkantha can get busy in peak windows; Bedni and Dodital often feel quieter.
Photography priorities: Brahmatal and Kuari are especially photogenic for big mountain backdrops; Dayara and Bedni for wide meadow shots.

Gear checklist (winter-specific)

Essentials for all these treks in winter:

Warm sleeping bag (comfort to at least -10°C recommended for higher meadows).
4-season/tent-rated accommodation if camping independently (agencies supply winter tents).
Insulated waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support.
Gaiters and microspikes/crampons depending on snow/ice.
Trekking poles — invaluable on snow.
Layered clothing: Thermal base-layers, fleece mid-layer, down jacket, windproof shell.
Warm gloves (liner + insulated glove), woolen cap, neck gaiter/balaclava.
Sunglasses (UV protection) and sunscreen (sun + snow glare).
Headlamp, extra batteries, first-aid kit, blister kit, and personal medications.
Water bottle + insulated cover (prevents freezing) and a small stove/fuel if cooking.
Footwarmers / chemical hand warmers (optional but helpful on summit days).

Winter safety: what you must know

Weather variability — Winter storms can close routes and delay returns. Always trek with a reputable operator in winter.
Hypothermia and frostbite — Watch for numbness, slurred speech (hypothermia), and pale or waxy skin (early frostbite). Layering and frequent warm breaks prevent both.
Short daylight — Plan daily distances conservatively; aim to reach camp before dusk.
Avalanche awareness — While the listed treks are non-technical, some slopes or gullies can be avalanche-prone after heavy snowfall; experienced local guides judge the safety.
Acclimatization — Don’t rush higher-altitude treks like Dodital/Darwa Top; allow acclimatization days where needed.
Communication — In many winter routes, mobile connectivity is erratic; carry a satellite communicator if you expect remote conditions.

Costs and bookings

Guided/group trek packages (6-day winter treks) typically range depending on operator services, group size, and inclusions (meals, tents, sleeping bags, porters). Expect mid-range operators to charge for everything from transport to guides; premium operators include better food and safety infrastructure.
Independent treks are possible, but in winter, hiring guides/porters from Walking The Himalayas and ensuring appropriate camping gear is essential.
Best booking practice: Book through Walking The Himalayas, as we have winter treks on our calendar, reviews, and references. Confirm whether camping gear and insulated sleeping bags are included.

Practical logistics & how to reach the base for each trek

Kedarkantha: Base is Sankri (drive from Dehradun/Rishikesh); Sankri is often a long road drive (8–10+ hours).
Kuari Pass: Base towns include Joshimath/Gorson/Auli depending on route; access from Rishikesh/Dehradun by road. Cable car access to Auli is an option for some approaches.
Brahmatal: Base is Lohajung (drive from Rishikesh/Dehradun); Lohajung to trek start by jeep/foot.
Dayara Bugyal: Approaches via Bhatwari/Raithal in Uttarkashi district; drives from Dehradun or Rishikesh with local jeep connections.
Bedni Bugyal: Accessible from Lohajung/Lohajung region; often combined routes from Rishikesh–Lohajung.
Dodital/Darwa: Road head at Agoda/Sangamchatti, drive from Uttarkashi; remote valley approach.
Chopta/Tungnath/Deoriatal: Chopta is road-accessible (a long drive from Rishikesh/Dehradun); Deoriatal base is near Sari/ukhimath approach.

Sample 10-day winter itinerary (combine two treks)

If you have around 10–12 days and want variety, combine Chopta–Deoriatal (2–3 days) + Kedarkantha (6 days) with travel days in between. This gives a short, easy snow experience and a longer summit trek — good acclimatization and variety in scenery.

Photography & ethical considerations

Snow reflects light strongly — use sunglasses and lower camera exposure to preserve highlights.
Avoid walking off-trail in fragile alpine meadows (summer vegetation can persist under thin snow).
Respect local villages and customs: many trails pass through grazing lands and sacred places (e.g., Tungnath temple). Tip local guides and porters fairly; they’re the backbone of safe winter trekking.

Final practical tips (before you go)

Pack spares: batteries, thermal liners, and extra socks; electronics drain faster in cold.
Hydration: drink plenty; cold suppresses thirst but dehydration remains a big risk at altitude.
Eat calorie-rich food: winter trekking burns a lot of calories — bring energy bars and make sure your operator provides hot, rich meals.
Pre-trek fitness: aim for 6–8 weeks of aerobic conditioning and long walks with a loaded pack.
Travel insurance: choose one that covers mountain rescue and helicopter evacuation for hiking at the altitudes these treks reach.

Closing notes — which trek to pick?

First snow-trek / family-friendly: Kedarkantha and Dayara Bugyal.
Most dramatic mountain backdrops: Kuari Pass (Nanda Devi views) and Brahmatal (Trishul/Dhari views).
Highest/most remote: Dodital–Darwa for the Darwa Top extension — be prepared for higher altitude and tougher winter conditions.
Short weekend snow fix: Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila with or without Deoriatal.

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Here’s why thousands of trekkers choose to travel with us year after year:

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Our team includes qualified trek leaders, Wilderness First Responders (WFR), and certified mountaineers trained by institutions like NIM and IMF. Every trek is led by professionals who not only know the routes but also understand mountain safety, local culture, and weather patterns — ensuring your experience is safe, informative, and unforgettable.

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Your safety is our top priority. All our treks are equipped with:

Emergency medical kits
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Well-trained support staff
Detailed safety briefings before every trek

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We know how important good food is at high altitudes! Our kitchen teams prepare fresh, balanced, and tasty meals using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Whether it’s hot soup on a snowy evening or a hearty breakfast before the summit — we keep your energy levels up and spirits high.

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From high-quality tents, sleeping bags, and snow gear to well-maintained logistics support, we ensure you’re equipped for all conditions. Our gear is regularly inspected and upgraded for comfort and safety, especially on high-altitude and winter treks.

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