Top 5 Winter Treks to Do in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is the heart of the Indian Himalayas, and winters transform its valleys, meadows, and peaks into magical snow-covered landscapes. If you are planning a Himalayan adventure, these top 5 winter treks in Uttarakhand are must-dos.
1. Kedarkantha Trek – The Classic Winter Adventure
Kedarkantha Trek Highlights (Point-to-Point):
Starting Point: Sankri village, Uttarkashi
Trek Distance: ~20 km (round trip)
Summit Height: 12,500 ft / 3,810 m
Duration: 4–6 days
Trail Type: Beginner-friendly, through pine and oak forests
Views: Swargarohini, Black Peak, Bandarpoonch, Yamunotri
Special Spots: Juda ka Talab, Kedarkantha temple
Season: December to March (best time for Kedarkantha trek)
Packages: Affordable Kedarkantha trek package options available
Why You Should Do the Kedarkantha Trek
The Kedarkantha trek is ideal for first-time trekkers and winter adventure lovers. It combines snowy meadows, dense forests, and panoramic Himalayan views with cultural experiences like visiting the Kedarkantha temple, which has mythological significance. The trek is beginner-friendly, safe, and offers a memorable sunrise from the summit. Kedarkantha trekking in winter is perfect for anyone looking for a short yet rewarding Himalayan adventure.
2. Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila Trek with Deoria Tal
Highlights (Point-to-Point):
Starting Point: Chopta, Uttarakhand
Trek Duration: 4–5 days
Summit Height: Chandrashila – 12,083 ft / 3,680 m
Trail Type: Moderate, suitable for beginners & families
Views: Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kedar peaks
Special Spots: Tungnath temple, Deoria Tal lake
Season: December–February for snow trekking
Popular Treks: Chopta Chandrashila trek, Chopta Tungnath trek, Deoria Tal trek
Packages: Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek packages available
Why You Should Do the Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila Trek
This trek offers a combination of spirituality, adventure, and scenic beauty. Visiting Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple, and Chandrashila peak gives trekkers a sense of achievement. The Deoria Tal trek adds a serene experience with reflections of snow-capped peaks on the lake. Shorter than Kedarkantha, this trek is ideal for long weekends or beginners seeking a snow trekking experience in Uttarakhand.
3. Dayara Bugyal Trek – Meadows of Snow
Highlights (Point-to-Point):
Starting Point: Lohajung, Uttarkashi
Trek Duration: 4–5 days
Altitude: 12,000 ft / 3,650 m
Trail Type: Easy to moderate
Views: Gangotri, Black Peak, Bandarpoonch ranges
Special Spots: Expansive alpine meadows (bugyals)
Season: Summer and Winter (Dayara Bugyal in summer or snow-covered in winter)
Packages: Dayara Bugyal trek packages available
Why You Should Do the Dayara Bugyal Trek
Dayara Bugyal trek is perfect for nature lovers and photographers. In summer, it offers lush green meadows and blooming flowers, while in winter, it becomes a vast snowy expanse. This trek is less crowded, providing peace, pristine landscapes, and an opportunity to witness Himalayan biodiversity. Ideal for beginners and families, it offers adventure combined with relaxation.
4. Har Ki Dun Trek – The Valley of Gods
Highlights (Point-to-Point):
Starting Point: Sankri, Uttarkashi
Trek Distance: ~44 km (round trip)
Summit Height: 11,700 ft / 3,565 m
Trail Type: Moderate
Views: Swargarohini peaks, alpine meadows, forests
Special Spots: Har Ki Dun valley, Ruinsara Tal
Season: Winter (best for snow-covered trails)
Packages: Har Ki Dun trek packages available
Why You Should Do the Har Ki Dun Trek
The Har Ki Dun trek in winter is ideal for those seeking adventure and cultural immersion. The valley is known as the “Valley of Gods” for its mythological significance. Trekkers can explore traditional Garhwali villages, frozen rivers, and alpine forests. Extending to Ruinsara Tal offers an additional glacial lake experience. This trek balances spirituality, natural beauty, and moderate adventure.
5. Kuari Pass Trek – Lord Curzon’s Trail
Highlights (Point-to-Point):
Starting Point: Auli or Joshimath, Uttarakhand
Trek Duration: 5–6 days
Summit Height: 12,516 ft / 3,815 m
Trail Type: Moderate
Views: Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Kamet, Trishul
Special Spots: Gorson Bugyal, Kuari Pass ridge
Season: Winter (December–February)
Packages: Kuari Pass trek packages available
Why You Should Do the Kuari Pass Trek
The Winter Kuari Pass trek is perfect for photographers and snow lovers. Its historic significance as Curzon’s Trail adds charm. The trek offers spectacular panoramic views of Greater Himalayan peaks, snow-covered meadows, and forest trails. With a moderate difficulty level, it is suitable for first-timers and intermediate trekkers. Kuari Pass Uttarakhand is a must-do for anyone wanting snow trekking, Himalayan vistas, and adventure in winter.
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