Winter Treks in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is heaven for adventure enthusiasts looking to experience the magic of snow treks. Uttarakhand, with its snow-clad mountains and scenic landscapes, offers some of the best winter treks in India. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a beginner, these treks in December provide the perfect mix of thrill and beauty. From pristine snow-covered trails to breathtaking views of the Himalayas, winter treks in Uttarakhand promise an unforgettable journey through nature’s winter wonderland.

In this article, we explore the 10 best winter treks in Uttarakhand that should be on your bucket list this season.

• Chopta Chandrashila Trek
• Dayara Bugyal Trek
• Kuari Pass Trek
• Brahmatal Trek
• Kedarkantha Trek
• Nag Tibba Trek
• Chirbatiya Trek
• Deoban Weekend Trek
• Binsar Trek
• Bagji Bugyal Trek

Chopta Chandrashila Trek

Altitude: 12100 Ft.

Duration: 5 Days

Grade: Easy to Moderate

Fitness Required: Jogging or brisk walking 5 km in 35 min or 10 km in 90 minutes. Stairs climbing up and coming down at least 3 rounds of 100 with some bag load. Mountain climbers exercise at least 3 rounds of 20. Additional - Cycling, Swimming, Skipping and Squats.

About the Trek: The Chopta Chandrashila Trek, including the enchanting Deoriatal, is one of the best-known winter treks in Uttarakhand, providing an extraordinary Himalayan experience, and offers a perfect mix of beautiful forests, frozen lakes, and snowy trails. Deoriatal Lake, surrounded by pristine snow, transforms into a winter wonderland with reflections of the Chaukhamba peaks on the frozen lake, offering a perfect setting for winter photography. This trek combines spirituality and adventure, taking you to the Tunganath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world before reaching the summit of Chandrashila. The summit shows the stunning 360-degree views of the Garhwal and Kumaon ranges, especially magical in winter when the snow adds to the trek's beauty.

Dayara Bugyal Trek

Altitude: 12,100 ft

Duration: 6 Days

Grade: Easy

Fitness Required: Jogging or brisk walking 5 km in 35 min or 10 km in 90 minutes. Stairs climbing up and coming down at least 3 rounds of 100 with some bag load. Mountain climbers exercise at least 3 rounds of 20. Additional - Cycling, Swimming, Skipping and Squats.

About the Trek: Situated at an altitude of 12,100 ft, the Dayara Bugyal trek is known for its vast, snow-covered meadows and provides a serene and peaceful escape, especially during winter when the meadows are blanketed in snow. The trail takes you through dense oak and pine forests, and quaint mountain villages, and finally opens to the vast Bugyal, which seems to stretch endlessly. Dayara Bugyal provides a gradual yet rewarding climb suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

Kuari Pass Trek

Altitude: 12,750 ft

Duration: 6 Days

Grade: Moderate

Fitness Required: Jogging or brisk walking 5 km in 35 min or 10 km in 90 minutes. Stairs climbing up and coming down at least 3 rounds of 100 with some bag load. Mountain climbers exercise at least 3 rounds of 20. Additional - Cycling, Swimming, Skipping and Squats.

About the Trek: Often referred to as the 'Curzon Trail,' the Kuari Pass Trek is like stepping into a pristine winter wonderland, this winter trek offers a unique experience for trekkers, allowing you to explore the Himalayas in their snow-covered splendor. Once you are there, you'll find yourself immersed in an ever-changing landscape of snow-covered forests, serene meadows, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. The trek leads you through ancient oak forests, across frozen rivers, and to the breathtaking point of Kuari Pass, where the panoramic views of Mt Nanda Devi, Mt. Dronagiri, and other towering peaks are simply spellbinding. The mountain air, the crunch of snow beneath your boots, and the serene silence of the Himalayan wilderness create an unforgettable snow trek experience that soothes the soul and ignites the spirit of adventure.

Brahmatal Trek

Altitude: 12,250 ft

Duration: 6 Days

Base Camp: Lohajung

Grade: Easy to Moderate

Fitness Required: Jogging or brisk walking 5 km in 35 min or 10 km in 90 minutes. Stairs climbing up and coming down at least 3 rounds of 100 with some bag load. Mountain climbers exercise at least 3 rounds of 20. Additional - Cycling, Swimming, Skipping and Squats.

About the Trek: The Brahmatal Trek is beloved for its snow-laden trails and panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas. Taking you through dense oak forests and wide-open meadows, this trek leads to the frozen Brahmatal Lake, which sits in tranquil isolation during winter. The trek to Brahmatal Lake is accessible from the town of Lohajung, which is the starting point of the trek, and is approximately 210 kilometers from Dehradun. Winter in Brahmatal is from December to February and is the prime season for the Brahmatal Trek. During this period, the region is blanketed in snow, offering a surreal and picturesque setting for the adventure.

Kedarkantha Trek

Altitude: 12,500 ft

Duration: 6 Days

Grade: Easy to Moderate

Fitness Required: Jogging or brisk walking 5 km in 35 min or 10 km in 90 minutes. Stairs climbing up and coming down at least 3 rounds of 100 with some bag load. Mountain climbers exercise at least 3 rounds of 20. Additional - Cycling, Swimming, Skipping and Squats.

About the Trek: Kedarkantha is often referred to as the "Queen of Winter Treks”. It provides an enchanting escape into winter’s embrace. The moment you lace up your boots and venture into this snow-clad paradise, you're greeted by a world where every step feels like joy in a frosty wonderland. The easy endurance of the trail makes it one of the Best Treks for Beginners in Uttarakhand and seasoned trekkers. The summit, standing tall at 12,500 feet, rewards you with a breathtaking panorama of the Himalayan ranges such as Yamunotri and Gangotri peaks, along with the Black Peak, Bandarpoonch, and the Swargarohini range in sight. Each peak shimmers in the winter sun. The trek is a celebration of winter’s beauty, a chance to connect with nature, and a memory etched in the snow.

Nag Tibba Trek

Altitude: 9900 Ft.

Duration: 2 Days

Grade: Easy

Fitness Required: Jogging or brisk walking 5 km in 35 min or 10 km in 90 minutes. Stairs climbing up and coming down at least 3 rounds of 100 with some bag load. Mountain climbers exercise at least 3 rounds of 20. Additional - Cycling, Swimming, Skipping and Squats.

About the Trek: Located in Uttarakhand, the Nag Tibba Trek is a journey that leads you to the revered Nag Tibba Temple, dedicated to the serpent god Nag Devta. Winter in Nag Tibba comes with an abundance of snow, creating a mystical charm in the scenery. The entire region transforms into a winter wonderland, with snow-laden trees and trails whitewashed with snow. This sacred site is a highlight of the trek, adding a spiritual touch to your adventure. From the summit of Nag Tibba, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan peaks, including Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and the Gangotri range. The trek’s snowy landscapes, dense forests, and panoramic views offer fantastic opportunities for photography, allowing you to capture the serene beauty of winter in the Himalayas.

Chirbatiya Trek

Altitude: 9100 Ft.

Duration: 3 days

Grade: Easy

Fitness Required: Jogging or brisk walking 5 km in 35 min or 10 km in 90 minutes. Stairs climbing up and coming down at least 3 rounds of 100 with some bag load. Mountain climbers exercise at least 3 rounds of 20. Additional - Cycling, Swimming, Skipping and Squats.

About the Trek: Chirbatiya is a beautiful weekend trek located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. Chirbatiya is accessible for trekking all year round. During summer, you can expect the weather to be pleasant while during winter, the trail is covered in snow and the temperature can get low. For those who love snow hiking, winter is a suitable time for them to visit the trek. Patangnia is the highest point of the trek and gives a 270-degree view of the Himalayas. From Patangnia Meadow, you can see Mt. Trishul, Chang Bang, Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Neelkanth, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, and more.

Deoban Weekend Trek

Altitude: 9850 Ft.

Duration: 2 days

Grade: Easy to Moderate

Fitness Required: Jogging or brisk walking 5 km in 35 min or 10 km in 90 minutes. Stairs climbing up and coming down at least 3 rounds of 100 with some bag load. Mountain climbers exercise at least 3 rounds of 20. Additional - Cycling, Swimming, Skipping and Squats.

About the Trek: The Deoban weekend trek is a short and delightful winter trek in Uttarakhand. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Himalayas, this trek is perfect for those looking for an opportunity to experience the serene beauty of the snow-covered forested trails. The trek in winter is an ideal opportunity to enjoy a short but memorable adventure in the snow-clad Himalayan forests. It offers a chance to witness the beauty of winter in the mountains. Deoban is known for its diverse bird population, and during the winter trek, you can spot various bird species like the Himalayan Monal, Kalij Pheasant, and more. Birdwatching enthusiasts will find this trek particularly appealing.

Binsar Trek

Altitude: 8100 Ft.

Duration: 2 days

Grade: Easy

Fitness Required: Jogging or brisk walking 5 km in 35 min or 10 km in 90 minutes. Stairs climbing up and coming down at least 3 rounds of 100 with some bag load. Mountain climbers exercise at least 3 rounds of 20. Additional - Cycling, Swimming, Skipping and Squats.

About the Trek: The Binsar weekend trek is a captivating adventure situated in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, it’s a remote yet accessible destination, making it ideal for a weekend getaway. It’s a short trek spanning over 2 days, making it perfect for those seeking a brief respite from their regular routines. November to February is the ideal time to undertake the Binsar weekend trek, during this time, the region is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-capped peaks and crisp, refreshing air. Winter temperatures in Binsar can drop to sub-zero levels, especially during the night. The Binsar Weekend Trek in winter offers a unique opportunity to explore the beautiful Binsar wildlife sanctuary, which offers wildlife enthusiasts the opportunity to spot animals like barking deer, leopards, and various bird species. The trek provides an opportunity to explore ancient temples, and traditional Kumaoni villages, and experience the rich culture of the region.

Bagji Bugyal Trek

Altitude: 11100 Ft.

Duration: 6 days

Grade: Easy

Fitness Required: Jogging or brisk walking 5 km in 35 min or 10 km in 90 minutes. Stairs climbing up and coming down at least 3 rounds of 100 with some bag load. Mountain climbers exercise at least 3 rounds of 20. Additional - Cycling, Swimming, Skipping and Squats.

About the Trek: Bagji Bugyal is an offbeat trek, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The name is Bagji Bugyal roughly translates to ‘Meadow of Tigers’. Tigers or as they are locally known ‘Bagh’ used to inhabit the region some 60 to 70 years ago, which is how the trek derived its name. The tigers have disappeared now but Bagji Bugyal still remains a serene meadow waiting to be explored. The trekking trail follows beautiful virgin forests that are yet untouched by commercialization, chilly water streams, and spellbinding views of snow-capped peaks like Mt. Nanda Ghunti and Mt. Mrigthoni.