The Himalayas are already the cold, beautiful heaven of India, They are the youngest mountain ranges in the world, and probably why they are called the roof of the world as well, The Himalayas in India showcase a beautiful blend of lush green valleys filled with rich flora and fauna on one hand and the stark isolated beige valley of Ladakh where there is little to no vegetation grown. Similarly, the treks in the Himalayas are dynamic and unique in their unique way. They cater to almost all kinds of trekkers from budding to professionals throughout all the seasons.
Specifically speaking about winters in the Himalayas, they are extremely freezing, intense, and prone to avalanches, landslides, and road blockages. However, there are certain treks in the Himalayas which are exceptionally beautiful during the winters and glow differently in the Himalayan snow.
Following are the 4 best winter treks in the Himalayas
Brahmatal Trek
The Brahmatal trek in Uttarakhand takes you from meadows to lakes and forests, The ‘Tal’ in BrahmaTal stands for lake in the trek. Loosely translated, this is a huge frozen lake trek in Uttarakhand, The snowy months of December and January are the best months to visit Brahmatal. The trek ranges from moderate to difficult on the scale of difficulty and starts from Lohajung. The famous peaks of Uttarakhand like Mt. Nanda Ghunti and Trishul accompany you throughout the trek till Bekaltal lake and Brahmatal summit. Unlike the majority of the peaks in the Himalayas, the Brhamatal summit leaves a ridge rather than a peak. The tranquil white beauty of the frozen Bekaltal lake seems like it froze in time. The trek to Brahmatal takes 6 days to complete where you hike till 12,200 ft above sea level. Make sure you are prepared for everything you are going to need on the trek.
Chadar Trek
The Chadar Trek is a drastically different scene from the lush green valleys you see in other Himalayan states of India. Ladakh is located at a tremendous height which requires acclimatization and proper permits to enter the further areas of Ladakh. Chadar trek in Ladakh is famous for its incredible out-of-the-world experience and breathtaking views of the beige, isolated yet hauntingly beautiful Himalayas, The winters in Ladakh are extreme so much so that the interstate transport is closed for the majority of the months in a year. However, this does not stop the adrenaline junkies from quenching their thirst for adventure and thrill. The Chadar trek is known for its frozen Zanskar river and ecstatic views and camping experience in the barren Zanskar Valley. The trek requires you to be physically fit to adapt to the high altitude and the bitter cold of Ladakh. All the more, the Chadar trek is a life-altering experience one could get. The villages and happy villagers you interact with on the way truly provide a perspective shift.
Dayara Bugyal
Dayara Bugyal Trek
Uttarakhand is truly underestimated for its beautiful treks and stunning views of the lesser Himalayas which leave you spellbound. The state is nature’s wonder as it is blessed with immense spirituality, serenity, and calmness in its aura. Everybody would dream of frolicking or just laying in a beautiful open meadow with fresh air, Uttarakhand is blessed with many such meadows also known as Bugyals at high altitudes, Dayara Bugyal is one of the most famous burials in Uttarakhand. Dayara bugyal sits perfectly near the Deodhar ranges and offers mind-blowing views of the valleys and the thick forests around. The Bugyal’s beauty is dynamic in every season and specifically speaking of winters, the place is the definition of divinity. The open endless meadow located at 3600 m is also a famous camping destination where you can set up tents on the white blanket of snow.
Kedarkantha Trek
Kedarkantha is one of the favorite destinations of the trekkers. Among the few winter plus snow treks in the Himalayas, Kedarkantha is where you can begin your Himalayan trekking journey. The trek to Kedarkantha is easy to moderate and takes up to 4-5 days to complete. The aesthetic you can witness during this trek is white, shimmering snow and frozen trees, and lake. Tha is majestic peak of Kedarkantha is located within the boundaries of Govind Wildlife
Sanctuary hence the flora and fauna are rich. Trek to Kedarkantha is where budding trekkers often experience the first snow of their lives hence it makes a special trek for trekkers.
The winter is coming, gear up and get going.
