7 Best Winter Treks in Uttarakhand

Thrilling adventures are worthwhile in Uttarakhand

Nature’s eternal glory and the home of the lofty Himalayas, Uttarakhand is a tourist destination in India, the beauty of which is very difficult to explain in few words. As you step on its mesmerizing shores, you will see many surreal temples in every corner, fulfilling people’s spiritual quest. Surrounded by the magnificent Himalayas, Uttarakhand no doubt has many gorgeous hilly terrains, jungles and meadows that renders the state best for trekking adventures.

You will not be surprised to see tiny villages surrounded by thick jungles and mountains, the cool air that breezes in the midst of the mountains, alluring water streams and stunning peaks that cradle it is definitely a thing of delight to behold and more delightful is to try one of the most thrilling adventure activities in India – Trekking. The landscape of Uttarakhand is a heaven for seasoned and beginner trekkers. There are so many scenic terrains which will compel you to explore and embrace the thrill of adventure.

In Uttarakhand, every season has its own charm as it is a destination for all seasons but in this blog, we are going to mention some of the best winter Treks in Uttarakhand.

Top Winter Treks in Uttarakhand Himalayas

• Auli Gorson Bugyal WinterTrek
• Chopta -Chandrashila Winter Trek
• Nag Tibba Winter Trek
• Kuari Pass Winter Trek
• Dayara Bugyal Winter Trek
• Kedarkantha Winter Trek
• Brahmatal Winter Trek

Also Check Out: Popular Uttarakhand Trekking Tour Packages

Auli Gorson Bugyal WinterTrek

Auli Gorson Bugyal Trek is one of the best trekking trails to explore in Uttarakhand. The most interesting thing about this trek is that it can be done by amateurs. Being one of the most enchanting trekking trails of India, it has inspired many to indulge in trekking. Not only this trek would enrich your travel experience but also it gives an opportunity to explore rich varieties of flora and fauna and a quaint mountain village lifestyle.

Trek Level- Easy

Trekking in Gorson Bugyal

• Gorson Bugyal is situated at an altitude of 3056 m and it is located 3km away from Auli.
• As you start your trekking you witness the immense beauty of nature in the form of Coniferous Forests and Oak Forests.
• In winters, the entire land of Gorson Bugyal is decked in glittery snow, which makes it one of the best snow trekking destinations in Uttarakhand.
• Lofty Peaks of Dronagiri, Mana, Nanda Devi,Hathi Ghoda, Chaukhamba Peak will blow your heart away.
• Its flat and sloped topography is a best place to enjoy camping and witness the bliss of nature under the starlit sky.
• 1km from Bugyal, you will also behold a sweet lake decked with dense forests of Chattarkund.

How to Reach?

You can take a ropeway from Joshimath to the last tower. You can also reach Joshimath from Haridwar or Rishikesh by taxi or a cab. You can also take a taxi to Auli from Joshimath. Gorson Bugyal is just 3km from Auli.

Also Check Out: Popular Easy Treks in Uttarakhand

Chopta – Chandrashila Winter Trek

One must explore Chopta – Chandrashila Trek in winter as it is one of a kind trek in Uttarakhand. Dotted amidst the Himalayan mountains, the quaint valley of Chopta is one of the best winter trekking destinations in India. Surrounded by the enchanting Oak, Deodar and Rhododendron forests, Chopta has some alluring vistas to behold. The stunning Chandrashila Summit Trek will take you to the wonderland of deep gorges and lush valleys and spectacular lofty Himalayan Peaks of Trishul, Banderpanch, Kedarnath and Chaukhamba.

On your trekking tour, you will come across the highest Shiva Temple in the world- the magnificent Tungnath Temple which is 100 years old and stands still in pride to shower divine blessings to the devotees. During winters, the land of Chopta is covered in snow which makes the trek a little difficult.

• Duration of Trek – 6 Days
• Trek Level – Easy to Moderate

Highlights of Chopta- Chandrashila Trek

• Temples of Haridwar and Rishikesh – Abode of Spiritual Grace
• Confluences of river Bhagirathi and Alaknanda and the enchanting small village of Sari.
• Deoriatal – while Passing through the forests of Maple and Rhododendron from Sari
• Exotic wildlife at Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and mesmerizing Kedar and Chaukhamba Peaks
• Pretty Meadow of Rohini Bugyal and Tikidi Khal which is surrounded by beautiful meadows and dense forests.
• The magnificent Tungnath Temple – The world’s highest Shiva Temple at Chandrashila Peak.

How to Reach?

From Chopta you can reach Sari village by any private vehicle as it is the basecamp for Chandrashila Trek. From Haridwar, you can take any cab or taxi to reach Sari village. There are many private and government owned buses to reach Sari from Haridwar.

Also Check Out: Popular Moderate Treks in Uttarakhand

Nag Tibba Winter Trek

Nag Tibba Trek of the lower Himalayan region is one of the most amazing treks in Uttarakhand for adventure lovers. Nag Tibba – The Serpent’s Peak is the highest Peak of the lower Himalayas of Garhwal. The magnificent Nag Devta temple perched at the top of the hill and the stunning views of Bunderpunch ranges will complete the quest for tranquility and serenity.  If you are tired from the hustle and bustle of city life then this trek is one of the best weekend treks in India which you must do to fine-tune your spirit.

• Duration of the Trek – 2 days
• Trek Level- Easy

Highlights of Nag Tibba Trek

• Mesmerizing views of the Himalayan Peaks of Bunderpunch, Kalanag, Srikanta, and Gangotri.
• Scenic villages of Uttarakhand such as Pantwari, Kori, Bandsari Devalsari and Thatyur.
• Lovely meadows and Enchanting Deodar Oak and Pine.
• Moriana- a perfect spot for photography if you take the alternative route from Bhatwadi village.

How to Reach?

Either reach Mussoorie or Dehradun as these are the closest places to reach Nag Tibba. From Mussoorie you will get a taxi or a cab to reach Devalsari village and then you can trek to Nag Tibba Top. You can also reach Pantwari Village; it is a shortcut to Nag Tibba.

Also Check Out: Popular Difficult Treks in Uttarakhand

Kuari Pass Winter Trek

Stunning Rhododendrons, lush green meadows, fascinating snow-shrouded lakes and lofty Himalayan Peaks of immense beauty makes Kuari Pass trek one of the most sought-after snow trekking destinations in Uttarakhand. The most interesting fact about this trek is that you will be able to see the spectacular view of the beautiful Anda Devi Peak clearly. These trekking trails are decked with stunning pine and oak forests teeming with exotic wildlife, gorgeous meadows covered with snow and frozen lakes.  This is also known as the Lord Curzon trail as it was once explored by Lord Curzon (Former Governor general of India) himself. If you really want to taste the pleasure of real adventure then visit Kuari Pass once in a lifetime.

• Duration of the Trek- 6 days
• Trek Level- Easy to Moderate

Highlights of Kuari Pass Trek

• Gorgeous Gorson Bugyal – Meadows of beauty in abundance
• Auli Meadow – you can try one of the most popular adventure activities – Skiing.
• Mesmerizing Peaks of Kamet, Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Trishul, Bertholi, Hathi Ghodi Parvat,Mana and Neelkanth
• Verdant Oak and Pine forests, beautiful meadows and frozen lakes
• Scenic remote villages of Uttarakhand such as Sutal, Ghunni, Jhinjhi and Panna.

How to Reach?

The Kuari Pass Trek starts from Joshimath. From Joshimath, you have to travel to Dhak Village where after a 6km journey you will reach Chitrakhana Campsite which will take you to the beautiful meadows of Tali top. From Tali Top you can easily trek to KuariPass by Khullara Top.

Also Check Out: Popular Trekking Peaks in Uttarakhand

Dayara Bugyal Winter Trek

In Dayara Bugyal Trek, you will feel like you are in a garden of Eden. Everything here seems utopic. You will see Sheeps grazing over the meadow and sweet sounds of the birds will delight your soul. Wherever you set your eyes, you will see vast stretches of lush green meadows. This trekking trail would take you through verdant forests gazing upon beautiful Himalayan Peaks. This high-altitude pasture land is a treasure trove for nature lovers and solace seekers who are looking for the moments of tranquillity away from the chaos of the world. It is one of the most popular winter treks for beginners. As you move across the meadow you will witness lush green forests of Oak and Maple and meadows, beautiful streams and stunning Barnala Tal surrounded by the Oak trees.

• Trek Duration- 6 days
• Trek Level – Easy to Moderate

Highlights of the Dayara Bugyal Trek

• Dayara Bugyal Trek starts from Barsu Village which is also the base camp of Dayara Bugyal. Spend some time here to witness the scenic farms and lifestyle of people.
• You will witness the scenic Peaks of Bhagirathi, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Mt Srikanth, Draupadi Ka Danda, Mt Jaunli.
• Enjoy the snow in winters as the whole landscape of Dyara Bugyal is covered in white snow.
• Verdant Oak forests and lush green Meadows are filled with beauty in abundance.
• Barnala Tal Lakeside is the best place for camping.

How to Reach?

From Dehradun you have to take a bus to reach Uttarkashi. It will take 1-2 hrs to reach Barsu from Uttarkashi. Barsu is the basecamp for Dayara Bugyal Trek. A 4km walk from Barsu will take you to Barnala Tal from where you can easily reach Dyara Bugyal.

Also Read: How to Get Trekking Permit in Uttarakhand?

Kedarkantha Winter Trek

Kedarkantha Trek of Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in Uttarakhand is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling winter treks for adventure lovers in India. If you are a thrill seeker, you must indulge in this trek as it will challenge you on every level. The summit climb of Kedarkantha will provide you immense thrill and excitement when you climb it and the mesmerizing views of lofty mountains of the upper Himalayas will delight your senses. The stunning Pine, Oak and Deodar forests along with beautiful shrubs and varieties of trees and breathtaking resting points on your trekking tour will compel you to stay here for a long time. Moreover, the clearings all around will capture your attention with its soul soothing vistas. You will also witness awesome sunsets in this enchanting trekking trail. In winters, the whole area covered in snow makes this place a perfect winter trekking destination to satisfy your snow adventures.

• Duration of the Trek – 6 days
• Trek Level – Easy to Moderate

Highlights of Kedarkantha Trek

• Alluring views of High Himalayan Peaks and snow-covered forests.
• The fascinating Juda Ka Talab is a blissful sight to behold.It is also an ideal camping spot.
• Scenic Sankri Village
• Oak and Pine forests along with steep ridges covered in snow
• Kedarkantha base camp where it will take seven hours to reach Kedarkantha Peak if you walk at moderate speed.
• Stunning views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch and Kala Nag Peaks.

How to Reach?

For Kedarkantha trek, reach Sankri village which is 200km from Dehradun. Once you reach Sankri Village, you will be easily able to reach Kedarkantha Peak. From Dehradun you will get a bus for Sankri Village early in the morning. By chance if you miss the morning bus you can take the bus for Hanol and get down at Mori. From Mori you will be able to get a taxi or a cab to reach Sankri.

Other Interesting Blog to Read

• Best High-Altitude Trekking in Himalayas

Brahmatal Winter Trek

Let’s give you the visual treat of Brahmatal Trek. On this trekking Tour, thpe stunning views of Himalayan Peaks such as Trishul and Nanda Ghunti after passing through beautiful Rhododendron and Oak forests. You will also witness the beautiful Roopkund Trek from Brahmatal trek.  In the middle of this meadow, the blissful Brahmatal Lake will be the perfect place to spend some moments of tranquility. During winter this lake is frozen and camping in the snowy carpet of Tilandi with the gorgeous sunrise and sunset view will make your heart dance with joy. Brahmatal Trek is an abode of pleasurable vistas. It is one of the best Himalayan winter treks in India.

• Duration of the Trek- 6 days
• Trek Level – Easy to Moderate

Highlights of Brahmatal Trek

• The gorgeous forests of Rhododendrons and Oaks
• Blissful meadows of Tilandi to Jhandi Top. The views are breathtaking
• Magnificent Peaks of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti.
• Pleasing views of Roopkund Trek.
• Drop dead gorgeous Brahmatal Lake which is frozen in Winter.

How to Reach?

Brahmatal trek starts from Lohajung from Kathgodam. Kathgodam is the nearest railhead for Brahmatal. From Lohajung you can reach Bekaltal via Mandoli Village.It will take around 4 hours. From Bekaltal, trek towards Brahmatal.

Other Interesting Blogs to Read

• Best Spiritual Treks in the Himalayas
• Best Summer Treks in Uttarakhand

We hope that this blog is helpful in enlightening you about the most popular winter treks to enjoy in Uttarakhand. Uttarakhand is indeed a place where apart from the sightseeing of all the natural wonders, a true pleasure of adventure and thrill can be experienced. If you have any query, you can ask in the comment section of the blog.

Other Important Uttarakhand Tourism Links

• Complete Uttarakhand Travel Guide
• Popular Uttarakhand Holiday Packages
• Adventure Tourism in Uttarakhand

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