5 Mountain Treks You Must Explore This Winter

Most people assume that winter sets in December. But real winter in India sets only in the middle of January. For a change if you see we can already feel the winter with drizzling morning and pouring evenings nowadays. This little known fact makes the last week of November is wonderful for trekking.

The snow is not thick enough to prevent trekking, but the all-white landscape is perfect for a winter trek. Let's have a look at top 6 winter treks to do in India. Time yourself for the last week of November for most of them, though some can be done in Dec, Jan and Feb.

1.Deoriatal

In the last week of November, when the first bout of snow has fallen, another winter trek turns wondrous. The Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek in Uttarakhand climbs gently to a partially frozen lake. Across the lake, stretched across the horizon are views of the entire ranges of western Uttarakhand.

Climbing to the top of the Chandrashila summit on snow is a thrill no doubt, but what steals the show is the flawless view of all the highest mountains of India. Name a mountain and you'll see it from the summit, including Nanda Devi, India's tallest mountain. It is somewhat staggering to be there.

2.Sandakphu

Moving to the north-east, Sandakphu is best done in winter, though most people do it in other seasons. For Sandakphu is the only trek in India that lets you see four of the tallest mountains in the world Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Lhotse. In winter, when the air is crisp and there is no haze in the sky, the sight can bring tears to your eyes. When you punch in views of Nuptse and even Pandim, trekkers are spoilt for choice.

These views aren't fleeting. You see the big mountains all through the day as you walk the ridge between Sandakphu and Phalut. The trek dips in and out of Nepal multiple times - sometimes you don't know which country you are in! You don't need a passport though!

3.Kuari Pass Trek

The alpine meadow of Kuari Pass has been attracting backpackers from around the globe for decades. Being in close proximity to Nanda Devi biosphere, Kuari Pass is at the center of the most remarkable regions of Garhwal known for its unique wild grandeur.

In the background below the valley is the entrance to the formidable Rishi Gorge which until 1934 was considered un-penetrable.

4.Dodital Trek

There are few treks in India that can qualify as a true winter trek. The Dodital is one of them. The snowy scenery is outstanding and camp sites are easily reachable. For those looking to explore the Himalayas in winter and experience snow, nothing is better than the Dodital trek.

5.Goecha La Trek

Goecha La Trek is done in the alluring land of Sikkim. The Goecha La trek takes the tourist up-close for a fabulous view of the great Kanchenjunga amidst a splendid vista of the other lesser Himalayan giants within its range. This trek is an extension of the Dzongri trek.

Trekking beyond the meadows of Dzongri is an awe-inspiring raw adventure, where the tourist is taken into the monarchy of towering mountain peaks straight above and the camp is set amidst the sight of high mountain glaciers.
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