During winters, India is snowed under with travelers and tourists, who flock to its mountainous landscape for the year-round cool weather and soothing atmosphere. While many winter treks in India promise stunning views of its scenic mountain ranges and majestic snow-covered peaks, there are some that offer a deeper experience. We’ve picked out seven trails in India that stand out as jaw-droppingly beautiful places to visit while experiencing winter’s chill winds.
Brahmatal, Uttarakhand (3733.8m/12,250 ft)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Maximum Altitude:12,250 ft
- Duration: 6 Days
Views at Brahmatal are awe-inspiring with a view of the snow-covered Cora Ridge, which is said to be the highest in India. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas and even catch a glimpse of Mount Kedarnath, which was used as a backdrop for Lord Shiva’s yagna in ‘The Mahabharata.
About a half-hour journey from the town of Almora, the trail to Brahmatal is a 3.2km trek that starts at a picturesque lake in the middle of the village. On your way up, you’ll climb through pine and oak forests to reach a lake with a breathtaking view of snow-covered peaks. However, prepare for a steep, muddy descent back to the village where you begin your hike.
Kedarkantha Trek, Uttarakhand (3,130m/10,280 ft)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 10,284 ft
- Duration: 4-5 Days
Located around 150 kilometers from Rishikesh between Dhanaulti and Govindghat, the Kedarkantha trek is one of the most popular trails in Uttarakhand. For those who love offbeat locations and stunning views of snow-covered mountains, this trail will leave you spellbound. The vistas are especially breathtaking when you cross the Shivalik ranges and enter into the glorious Himalayan foothills.
The hike is exhausting but worth it, with an uphill climb through dense forests and a steep descent that leads to the final destination. The adventurous trek also offers spectacular views of Pandukeshwar Lake and Tapovan, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Pin Parvati Trek, Himachal Pradesh (1957m/6429 ft)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 6,429ft
- Duration: 5-6 Days
The sixth highest mountain in India, Pin Parvati is the perfect destination for those looking to trek in the Himalayas in winters. Sitting at a height of 19,570 feet above sea level, Pin Parvati offers breathtaking vistas of the mighty Himalayan range and snow-covered peaks. The hike takes you through pine and oak forests where birdlife thrives. During winters, you’ll have to navigate a path through snow-clad mountains and frozen streams. Make sure you have the right gear to brave the cold while on your way to this snow-covered mountain.
Chadar Trek, Ladakh (3,520m/11,500 ft)
- Difficulty: Hard
- Maximum Altitude: 11,500ft
- Duration: 7 Days
The Chadar Trek is one of the most popular winter treks in India and is ideal for those looking for a thrilling journey through the snow-capped Himalayas and spectacular views of breathtaking landscapes. The trail takes you through the frozen Zanskar river to reach Tso Moriri Lake. The frozen river changes its color every day, sometimes taking on a purple cast, making the trek even more enchanting.
Along the way, you’ll encounter frozen waterfalls and black ice, which has been formed due to freezing temperatures and reflects sunlight making it look extra-special. The trek is strenuous and exhausting, so make sure you bring along sufficient supplies of food and warm clothing that can withstand the sub-zero temperatures.
Goechala and Dzongri Trek, Sikkim (3710m/12,000 ft)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 12,000 ft
- Duration: 6 Days
Located on the outskirts of Gangtok is Goechala, the second highest peak in Sikkim with a towering snow-covered peak. This trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and an opportunity to experience nature’s raw beauty first-hand.
The trek is strenuous and only advisable for those who are in good physical shape, as there are steep climbs and lots of falls to be overcome. However, it is an ideal way to experience waterfalls and a night trail in the snow-covered foothills of the Himalayas.
Har ki Dun Trek, Uttarakhand (2,950m/9,700ft)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 9,700 ft.
- Duration: 5 Days
Another popular destination for those looking to trek through snow-covered mountains in India is the Har ki Dun trek in Uttarakhand. The breath-taking trail takes you to the stunning Lake Yamnotri and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. It is said to be an ideal location for birdwatching and home to a variety of migratory birds.
The trek is a relatively easy one and you’ll reach the lake in around 2 hours. However, during winters, the snow-covered lakes are frozen over and you’ll have to walk through them. Along the way, look out for some of the more unusual sights such as wild boar and monkeys, which can be seen in surrounding forests.
Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek, Uttarakhand (4,480m/14,300 ft)
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Maximum Altitude: 14,000 ft
- Duration: 6 Days
The Tungnath and Chandrashila trek is one of the most popular treks in India for those looking for snow-covered mountains in winters. This trek is considered extremely tough with long climbs through the forest on difficult terrain. The steep climbs and cold winds make it a difficult but rewarding experience. The final destination consists of two peaks, Tungnath and Chandrashila.
Be prepared for a strenuous hike during winter as temperatures drop below freezing at night. However, the trek offers spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayas and is one of the most popular destinations for trekkers looking to experience snow-covered mountains in India.
So, which one of these snow-covered mountains will you choose to trek this winter? Whatever you choose, make sure you’re prepared for the cold and are geared up with the right winter gear to brave sub-zero temperatures. Also, remember that the hard work and effort put in will be well rewarded by stunning views of snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes.
