Top 10 snow Treks in India- Trekking trails for both novice and experienced Trekkers
Mountain trails in the Himalayas witness inanimate beauty during the winter months. Passing through the snow-capped mountain peaks, frozen streams, and wintry grasses is an experience that can never be expressed in words. Winter is the time when nature showcases its playful side and you get to see the colorful side of nature in the spring season. If walking on the snow walls is something you are looking for this upcoming winter then here is a detailed rundown of the top 10 snow treks in the Indian Himalayas that are the complete package of adventure, excitement, and wonderful memories.
1-
Kedar Kantha Trek
Nothing less than a fairyland for an adventurer, Kedar Kantha Trek is one of the most favorite winter treks in the Himalayas blessed with nature’s unkempt secrets. This thrilling trek commences from Sankri and takes you through Juda ka Talab, a glimmering lake nestled amidst thick dense forests of maple and alpine trees. On reaching this lake site, the trekkers spend some relaxing moments for the day and start trekking towards Kedar Kantha Peak on the next day. While descending the hill, you get to visit an apple garden at Hargaon Pass.
Weather– The temperature of the region drops down to a sub-zero level and reaches up to -15 degrees Celsius in the winter months.
2-
Kuari Pass Winter Trek
Also known as the Lord Curzon trail, Kuari Pass Winter Trek happens to be one of the most exhilarating trails amidst the Himalayas. The trek commences from Joshimath, the winter abode of Lord Badrinath, and then takes you through the lesser-known passes and eventually to Kuari Pass, the highest point of the trek. On reaching the top of this trekking trail, the trekkers are awarded with mesmerizing views of the surrounding peaks including Hathi- Ghodi Parvat, Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, etc.
While walking on the downward hill, adventure lovers can visit Auli, another impressive winter destination in Uttarakhand. This amazing skiing destination in India is flocked by thousands of trekkers every year.
Weather– The temperature of the region ranges between -2 and -8 Degree Celsius hence, the region gets entirely covered with thick sheets of snow.
3-
Dayara Bugyal Trek
If you have never done trekking so far and want to enjoy this adventure activity for the very first time then you shall plan an adventure trip to Dayara Bugyal Trek. It happens to be one of the easiest trekking sites in India. Being established at a great height, the region receives huge snowfall during the winter months. This snow trek nestled amidst the Himalayas sprawls over a huge area of almost 28 sq. km. and is believed to be a perfect ski slope during the winter months.
Weather– One needs to be both physically and mentally ready to bear the bone-tearing cold weather as the temperature of the region ranges between -4 and -10 Degree Celsius.
4-
Dodital Winter Trek
Another perfect choice for those who are trekking for the very first time, Dodital Winter Trek is however an easy trail but it becomes pretty challenging during the winter months when gets covered with snow blankets. Commencing from Sangamchatti, the Dodital trek takes you through a thick forest area where you can spot several Himalayan birds. While walking upwards the hill, stop at the Agoda Village from where you can capture the awe-inspiring views of the summits of the Eastern and Western Himalayas.
Weather– Like other winter destinations, Dodital also receives huge snowfall, and the temperature ranges around the sub-zero level.
5-
Chopta Chandrashila Winter Trek
One of the most astonishing and easiest winter treks in India, Chopta Chandrashila Trek passes through remote villages, the highest Shiva Temple, and the pristine lake. The trekking trail commences from Ukhimath and then takes you through Deoria Tal via Sari Village. On reaching a certain altitude of this trekking trail, visit the magnificent Shiva Temple and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, the supreme deity of Hindus.
After visiting the Shiva shrine, proceed towards Chandrashila, the summit of moon rock at 4000 meters above sea level. Enjoy capturing the soul-soothing views of the surrounding mountain areas including Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Nanda Devi.
Weather– The temperature of the region ranges between zero and -10 degrees Celsius and this is why one needs to carry heavy woolens to stay fit and fine.
6- Sham Valley Winter Trek
Established beautifully in the Ladakh region, Sham Valley Trek is nationwide famous for its plantation of apricot flowers. During the winter months, the entire valley gets adorned with apricot flowers. Popularly called ‘Baby Trek’, this destination is a perfect place for those who are trekking for the first time and have no prior experience. One can explore a multitude of travel attractions such as Likir Monastery, Indus Valley, and the primordial Sham Kingdom.
Weather– This hugely elevated destination receives a huge amount of snowfall during the winter months and the temperature ranges between -5 and -15 degrees Celsius.
7-
Chadar Trek
One of the most exciting and enthralling trekking trails in India, Chadar Trek is all about strength, survival, and persistence. The adventures covering this difficult trekking train get an opportunity to learn about surviving in harsh regions at sub-zero temperature levels. This frozen river trek is established in one of the most inhabitable regions in the world where you don’t find any hotel or resort to stay. Despite being so challenging, covering the Chadar trek is a lifetime experience for the trekkers and they consider it as a ‘Do before you die’ activity.
Weather– One of the coldest trekking trails in India witnessing an extreme temperature level that reaches -35 degrees Celsius during the winter months.
8-
Auli Gorson Winter Trek
Commencing from Rishikesh and then passing through Joshimath, Auli, and Gurson Bugyal, the Auli Gorson Winter Trek is considered the first step towards trekking for a novice trekker. Apart from enjoying the challenges of the trekking trail, the mesmerizing beauty of the thick dense forests of alpine trees and the eye-catching views of the surrounding peaks are like icing on the cake. Do not forget to enjoy skiing at this world-known skiing destination.
Weather– The temperature of Auli hardly comes up to zero level during the winter months.
9-
Har Ki Dun Trek
One of the oldest trekking trails in the country, the Har Ki Dun winter trek is believed to be the most alluring trek of the Winter Himalayas. Commencing from Dehradun, the trekking trail leads you towards Sankri, Taluka Village, Gangar Village, and other exciting places en route. This easy-level snow trek is heaven for adventure lovers and draws a huge footfall of trekkers from all around the country.
Weather– Unlike other destinations mentioned above, Har Ki Dun doesn’t witness such extreme climatic conditions.
10-
Brahmatal Trek
A moderate-level trekking trail in Uttarakhand, Brahmatal offers you an opportunity to witness the surreal beauty of nature as the trek passes through the thick dense forests of rhododendrons and oak trees. The soul-soothing views of the magnificent mountains falling en route and the visible glimpses of the Roopkund trek seem like icing on the cake. The trek to this snowy destination is also reckoned for its beautiful campsites near the Brahmatal and the Bekaltal.
Weather– One needs to pack heavy woolen and other essentials in their bags as the region witnesses extreme temperatures during the winter months.