Best Himalayan Treks in January

12 Best Himalayan Treks in January

1. Chadar Frozen River Trek

• Maximum Altitude – 3500m/11480ft
• Region – Zanskar (Ladakh)
• The level of difficulty for this grade is moderate to difficult.
• Duration – 8N/9D (Ex. Leh)

Chadar Trek is a unique and unparalleled trekking experience in the country. Its name is derived from the term “Chadar” which means a sheet of ice formed on the Zanskar River during the freezing winters. Situated in one of the most frigid and uninhabited regions on the planet, this trek allows participants to walk on a frozen river and discover frozen waterfalls. While the hike itself is not overly perilous, traversing thin ice adds a thrilling and demanding aspect to the adventure.

2. Kedarkantha Trek

• Maximum Altitude – 3810m/12500ft
• Region – Garhwal (Uttarakhand)
• Grade – Moderate
• Duration – 5N/6D (Ex. Dehradun)

Kedarkantha, situated in Western Garhwal, is a highly sought-after trek during the winter months. While the trek is available year-round, it is particularly crowded during the winter season. It is also one of the rare treks where even inexperienced trekkers can enjoy a proper snow trekking experience. In winter, certain sections of the trail are covered in deep snow, creating a magical winter landscape. One notable aspect of this trek is the opportunity to reach a summit in a relatively short period of time.

3. Brahmatal Trek

• Maximum Altitude – 3840m/12600ft
• Region – Chamoli (Uttarakhand)
• Grade – Moderate
• Duration – 5N/6D (Ex. Dehradun)

Brahmatal Trek is highly regarded as one of the most breathtaking destinations for hiking in the Himalayas. It is a beloved choice among experienced trekkers due to its remarkable beauty. The journey commences with a hike towards the initial campsite, Bekaltal, which captivates trekkers with its sheer magnificence. Since the closure of Roopkund Trek a few years ago, Brahmatal Trek has gained popularity and is now frequented by many adventure enthusiasts. Upon reaching the summit, trekkers are treated to awe-inspiring vistas of Mt Trishul (7120m) and Mt Nanda Ghunti (6309). Although not overly challenging, beginners should dedicate a few weeks to prepare for this trek.

4. Har Ki Doon Trek

• Maximum Altitude – 3550m/11650ft
• Region – Garhwal (Uttarakhand)
• Grade – Moderate
• Duration – 6N/7D (Ex. Dehradun)

The Har Ki Doon trek is one of the country’s oldest and offers a stunning campsite by the riverside in the Himalayas. While it may not be as well-known as other treks in the area, those who have visited will attest to its breathtaking beauty. In winter, the valley becomes a snowy wonderland, adding a bit of challenge and excitement to the trek. Additionally, this expedition allows for the opportunity to witness some of the most picturesque mountain villages.

5. Kuari Pass Trek

• Maximum Altitude – 3814m/12516ft
• Region – Joshimath (Uttarakhand)
• The difficulty level of this grade is easy to moderate.
• Duration – 4N/5D (Ex. Haridwar)

Kuari Pass, also known as the Curzon Trail, is situated at an elevation of 3814m. It offers a great opportunity for those who wish to witness some of the highest mountain peaks in the country. From the summit of the pass, one can enjoy a breathtaking view of Nanda Devi (7816m) as well as other prominent peaks like Dronagiri (7066m), Kamet (7757m), and Trishul (7120m). This trek is particularly suitable for beginners seeking a winter trek experience. The trail is abundant with diverse flora and fauna, including Rhododendron, Oak, and Deodar trees.

6. Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek via Deoria Tal

• Maximum Altitude – 4000m/13123ft
• Region – Rudraprayag (Uttarakhand)
• The difficulty level of the grade is easy to moderate.
• Duration – 3N/4D (Ex. Haridwar)

Chopta is a village situated in the meadows and is included in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. In recent years, this region has become popular among travelers from across the country. Despite being a short journey, visitors can encounter various aspects of mountain life throughout the four-day trip. This trek provides a combination of distinctive experiences, such as enjoying the beautiful Deoria Tal, receiving blessings at the Tungnath Temple, ascending the slopes of Chopta, and reaching the summit of the Chandrashila Peak.

7. Dayara Bugyal Trek

• Maximum Altitude – 3657m/12000ft
• Region – Uttarkashi (Uttarakhand)
• The difficulty level of the grade is easy to moderate.
• Duration – 2N/3D (Ex. Dehradun)

The Dayara Bugyal trek is situated in the breathtaking alpine meadows of a secluded area in Uttarkashi. This route guides hikers through some of the most picturesque and expansive landscapes in the region. Perfect for those with less experience or beginners, the journey begins in the village of Barsu and provides stunning views of peaks like Gangotri (I, II, III), Black Peak, and Srikanth, among others. The trail is adorned with forests of Deodar, Silver Oaks, and Rhododendron trees. The ascent to Bakaria top is quite peaceful, and the vistas from the summit are truly magnificent.

8. Nag Tibba Trek

• Maximum Altitude – 3050m/10000ft
• Region – Tehri Garhwal (Uttarakhand)
• Grade – Easy
• Duration – 1N/2D (Ex. Dehradun)

If an individual is pressed for time and wants to go hiking in snowy conditions, they need not search beyond Nag Tibba. The journey commences from Pantwari village and provides a comparatively simpler hike due to the clearly marked trail. Upon reaching the starting point, it is necessary to camp overnight before embarking on the ascent to the summit the following day. At the peak, there is a charming small temple that is typically enveloped in knee-deep snow during winter. Additionally, if one begins the hike early, they can witness a captivating sunrise on the second day.

9. Prashar Lake Trek

• Maximum Altitude – 2750m/8956ft
• Region – Mandi (Himachal Pradesh)
• Grade – Easy
• Duration – 1N/2D (Ex. Mandi/Kullu)

The Prashar Lake trek is a well-liked short trek in North India, perfect for a weekend getaway. It is particularly popular during the winter season. While it is possible to drive to the lake in the summer, heavy snowfall makes it impossible during the winter months. The trek begins in the village of Jwalapur, which can be easily reached by road. Even in the coldest winter conditions, it should take no more than four to five hours to reach the lake from the starting point. One of the highlights of this short trek is the opportunity to camp by the lake.

10. Hampta Valley Snow Trek

• Maximum Altitude – 3080m/10100ft
• Region – Manali (Himachal Pradesh)
• Grade – Easy
• Duration – 3N/4D (Ex. Manali)

Hampta Valley, situated in a popular trekking area in the Himalayas, is a stunning location for a winter hike. After acclimating in Manali for a day, the trek begins on the second day from the village of Prini. Along the journey, one can discover charming Himalayan villages like Sethan and Chika. The trail offers awe-inspiring beauty and showcases picturesque views of the entire Kullu Valley. In January, the Hampta Pass summit is inaccessible due to heavy snow, but a hike to Chika is still enjoyable for mountain enthusiasts.

11. Sham Valley Trek

• Maximum Altitude – 3750m/12300ft
• Region – Ladakh
• Grade – Moderate
The length of time for this trip ranges from 5 nights and 6 days to 7 nights and 8 days, for example, in Leh.

Sham Valley, also known as Apricot Valley, is a relatively unexplored region in Ladakh. One of the main reasons for this is that most of the villages in the valley cannot be reached by road and require trekking. Starting from Leh, one can drive to Likir village and begin the hike from there. The trek offers charming Himalayan villages like Hemis and Nurla as key attractions. In winter, the valley experiences extremely cold weather, but the snowy trails and breathtaking landscape make it a visual delight.

12. Snow Leopard Trek in Spiti Valley

• Maximum Altitude – 4480m/14700ft
• Region – Spiti
• Grade – Moderate
• Duration – 6N/7D (Ex. Shimla)

The Snow Leopard Trek in Spiti Valley is not just a regular hike, but more of an adventure expedition. It is considered to be one of the most unique hiking trips in the Himalayas. During winter, the only way to enter Spiti Valley is through Shimla, as the road from Manali to Spiti is blocked by snow. The valley is situated at a high altitude, so it is important to take extra precautions for staying hydrated. Starting from Kibber, participants have the opportunity to explore various parts of the area in search of the elusive snow leopard. In addition to the snow leopard, there are also chances of spotting other majestic animals like the Tibetan Wolf and the Blue Sheep.