Top 5 Winter Treks to Do in Uttarakhand

 

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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