Top 10 Best Winter Treks in Nepal

People have this preconceived notion that winter trekking in Nepal is something entirely impossible. But that is far from the truth. While some places do get heavy snowfall and extremely cold that makes the trek practically not possible, there are still many places in Nepal where the winter treks can be done and possibly might be even the best time to do so. 

Winter, which lasts from December to February, is actually considered an off-season in Nepal and usually does not get a huge influx of tourists during this time. But the views of the mountains during the winter are one of the clearest ones. The temperature does drop to the negative degrees, but that is not the case for all the places, and even then, with the right gear and equipment, we can easily combat the cold and enjoy the trek even in snow. 

Before we dive into the top 10 places for a winter trek, let’s discuss the things we need to know before we embark on a winter trek in Nepal. They are discussed below:

• The temperature will drop in negatives but not in all places and it only gets colder during the night. For reference, the temperature of the Everest Base Camp can reach -15° during the night but stays around 10° during the day. However, other places like Poonhill and Langtang can reach -5° during the night, which is the lowest it can reach. 
• You will need proper winter gear and equipment to trek during the winter. Gear like crampons to walk on the snow, down pants, down jackets, and sleeping bags that can withstand temperatures of -20° is crucial. The main idea is not getting wet and cold. 
• You need to maintain your physical fitness for the trek and make sure to have a proper exercise routine that focuses on cardio, which will be of great help during the trek. Along with physical health, taking care of your mental wellbeing is equally important.
• Diet and hydration play an important role in making your trek successful. Your diet should include a good source of carbs and protein while trekking, which gives you the necessary energy to hike without any problems. Keeping your body hydrated will help avoid unnecessary problems caused, such as AMS and fatigue. And avoid foods that can cause stomach problems, such as meat and alcohol.
• Keep yourself warm during the trek. Layer your clothes instead of just wearing one big jacket. Have extra clothes on hand because you might need them. And most of all, make sure your feet stay warm. Drink warm water and hot soup to keep your body hydrated and warm.

Now that we have established some ground rules and information, here are the top ten places that are perfect for trekking this winter.

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek 

Poonhill Trek is among the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal, not only due to its spectacular view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range but also because of it’s accessibility and short itinerary. It is a hill station located 177 km west of Kathmandu and is on an elevation of 3210 m (10,532 ft).

Poonhill is sought out for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views upon the majestic mountains that paint the white snow into liquid gold. It has been a classic trekking route for decades now and is still a favourite among the trekkers. The blend of nature with culture as you pass through native communities makes this trek even more special.

During the winter, it does get snow but that is part of the charm that Poonhill has to offer. The amazing views of the snow-capped peaks, such as Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), Annapurna III (7,555 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), Machapuchare (6,993 m), Tukuche peak (6,920 m), Dhampus peak (6,012 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Gurja Himal (7,193 m), and Nilgiri Himal (7,061 m) are some of the finest in the world. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp is a must-do trekking destination. Not only will it take you to the heart of the Himalayas, but also make it a spiritual experience. When we say you get the front row seats to look at the mountains, we really mean it. And winter enhances the experience even more as you get a pristine view of the 8000 m and 7000 m peaks in front of your very eyes. 

The diversity in landscape and unique culture makes the ABC trek a fan favourite. With the maximum elevation of 4,130 meters (13,551 feet), this trek offers you an unblemished view of the mountains like Annapurna I (8,091 m/ 26,545 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m/ 24,787 ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m/ 23,684 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/ 24,459 ft), Gandharva Chuli (6,248 m/ 20,499 ft), Himalchuli (6,816 m/ 22,362 ft), and Macchapucchre (6,993 m/ 22,943 ft). As it is one of the popular trekking spots, it is normal to see a huge number of people trekking during spring, but during the winter, it is more peaceful, and you will have the trail to yourself. 

Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Base Camp is one of those destinations that is stunning all year round. Mardi Himal in the winter is absolutely beautiful and it is also one of the nearest destinations from Pokhara and can be done within 7 days. As it is a newly opened route, it does not get as many trekkers as Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp but is getting even more popular day by day. 

The highest elevation of this trek is the Mardi Himal Base Camp itself at 4500 meters, which allows you panoramic views of Annapurna I (8,091 m/ 26538 ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m / 23,680 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,997 m/ 22,950 ft), Gangapurna Himal (7,454 m/ 24,450 ft) and of course Mardi Himal (5,587 m / 18,330 ft). 

Khopra Danda Trek

Khopra Danda Trek is another hidden gem within the Annapurna Region. It is a short but beautiful trek that takes you deeper into the heart of the mountains. Similar to Poonhill, it is a short and sweet trek but filled with some of the most beautiful views and cultural experiences. The trail is suitable for the very beginners who are just venturing out in the world of trekking and do not yet have the confidence to do other challenging destinations. 

Khopra Ridge Trek is the perfect destination to start out where you can build up your trekking experience and this can be even done during the winter; in fact, it is one of the best times. The snow-white peaks of Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Annapurna I (8091 m), Annapurna South ( 7219 m), Machhapuchhre (6993 m), Annapurna II (7937 m), Annapurna III (7555 m), Gangapurna (7455 m), Tukuche Peak (6920 m), and many more dazzle you and leave you in complete awe. 

Everest Base Camp Trek 

Everest Base Camp Trek is by far one of the best and most popular trekking destinations of Nepal, if not the world. The gateway to the world’s highest mountain, Mt. Everest, it is often the dream of many to reach the base camp. And despite what people might think about not being able to trek there during the winter, it actually is possible to do the Everest Base Camp Trek during the winter as well. If you prepare properly for the cold, then a trek to the EBC during the winter is one of the best times, as you will be blessed with clear views. 

Get a chance to indulge in the Sherpa culture while breathing in the crisp cold air from the Khumbu Glacier. Trekking during the winter is also one of the best ways to avoid overcrowding, which can be a bit of a problem during the peak season. Some of the gigantic vistas of mountains you can see during this trek are Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), Mount Lhotse (8,516 m), Mount Makalu (8,485 m), Mount Cho Oyu (8,188 m), Mount Nuptse (7,855 m), Mount Pumori (7,165 m), Mount Ama Dablam (6,812 m), and many more. 

Everest View Trek

The Everest View Trek is for those who want a short trek to the Everest region but still get the best view of Mount Everest. This trek is perfect for those who are not looking for a long trek like the Everest Base Camp, which can be a bit challenging but the Everest View Trek is very easy and can be done in 5 days. 

This is a golden opportunity for those who have limited time on their hands and also for those who are not able to go to the base camp itself and is suitable for all age groups. This trek offers views of the dazzling peaks of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, Khangteka, Thamserku, Taboche, and more, which of course includes the one and only Mount Everest as well. 

Gokyo Lakes Trek

Gokyo Lakes Trek offers an adventurous journey that takes you through the Sherpa town surrounded by the mountains of the Khumbu region. You get the best of both worlds as you trek to the heart of the Himalayas as well as get to see the pristine frozen lakes of Gokyo that make a perfect ice-rink to skate on (you might have to get permission first). 

You will also get the chance to summit Gokyo Ri (5,357 m/17,575 ft), from where you get mesmerizing vistas of Everest, Cho-Oyu, Makalu, Pumori, Amadablam, Thamserku, Tarboche, Cholatse, and many other mystical peaks. It is quite the treat for the people who are fond of snow and frozen lakes. If this fits your aesthetics, then the winter Gokyo Lakes Trek is definitely the one for you. 

Langtang Valley Trek 

Langtang Valley Trek falls under the top three most popular trekking destinations in Nepal after the Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp. And it very much deserves all the hype it gets. Not only is it the nearest trekking destination from Kathmandu, but also part of the first Himalayan national park of Nepal, Langtang National Park. Winter offers some of the best views while avoiding the crowd.

Langtang Valley Trek offers a perfect blend of nature and cultural experience. It is a spiritual journey to the top as you walk around prayer-inscribed walls and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. You also get to summit Kyanjin Ri  (4773m / 15655 ft) and Tserko Ri (5033 m/16,500 ft) from where you will be open to a 360° view of Langtang Lirung (7234 m / 23734 ft), Langtang Ri (7205 m / 23638 ft), Dorje Lyakpa (6966 m / 22854 ft), Ganchenpo (6378 m / 20925 ft), Changbu (6251 m / 20509 ft), Yansa Tsenji (6567 m / 21545 ft), Langshisha Ri (6412 m / 21037 ft), Ghenye Liru (6571 m / 21558 ft), and many more. 

Langtang-Gosaikunda Trek 

Langtang-Gosaikunda Trek is another option for those who wish to have a longer trekking adventure and are not satisfied with just Langtang Valley Trek. The route of Langtang-Gosaikunda overlaps and makes a round trip so you can customize your itinerary as per your requirement. Gosaikunda is popular among both international trekkers as well as Nepalese people as well. 

The Gosaikunda Lake, which is a part of the Ramsar site, holds religious importance for Hindus and Buddhists alike. It is a place of pilgrimage where people from all over the country aspire to visit at least once in their lifetime. This place is also regarded as important because quite a number of rare and endangered species of animals and birds reside here, especially the very cute Red Panda. Though they might not be out in the winter, the snow-covered trail and mountains make up for it. 

Ruby Valley Homestay Trek 

Ruby Valley Trek has recently been gaining the interest of avid trekkers and rightfully so, as it offers a perfect opportunity for a community trek that is packed with gorgeous views of the mountains. It is one of the few places where you can enjoy staying within a community homestay and experience true local hospitality. Immerse yourself in the local Tamang community and culture with their customs and daily life. 

Along with cultural experience, you also get amazing vistas of the towering peaks of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Range, and Manaslu Range. It is a relatively newly opened route and community homestay, so you can enjoy this trek in the winter with even fewer disturbances by trekking crowds. 

Now that we have established the top 10 places for winter treks in Nepal, let’s discuss the benefits and drawbacks of trekking during the winter in Nepal. 

Benefits of Winter Treks in Nepal

• Winter is typically considered off-season, so any trail you pick will have fewer people, which means you actually have the trail to yourself. 
• Snow actually adds to the beauty of the mountains. Thus, the snow-covered mountains and trails offer an even more beautiful aesthetic.
• Winter has some of the best crisp and clear views of the mountains, with gigantic white mountains against the azure sky. 
• You will get to interact with the local people out and about their day and not be busy catering to a crowd of tourists.
• You won’t run into trouble not being able to get a room at a tea house. In fact, you can pick and choose from multiple options during the winter, as most are empty. 

Drawbacks of Winter Treks in Nepal

• There might be problems walking in the heaps of snow. 
• The ice can create a slippery path, so you can fall down if not careful. 
• The cold will be extreme and require layers upon layers of clothing to keep warm. 
• Requires more gear and equipment, which can be heavy to carry. 
• The battery dies very fast due to the cold.
• The days are shorter compared to other seasons, so you need to start early and reach the tea house in the afternoon.
• There is a high chance of flights getting canceled due to lack of visibility. 

Conclusion

While trekking in winter is not considered by many, it is actually a perfect time. There will be more visible mountains with clear skies. And there are many destinations to choose from. If you want to avoid extremely cold places like the Everest Base Camp, where the temperature drops as low as -15°C, then you can choose places like Poonhill or Mardi Himal Trek, which is easy and short, and the temperature stays between 0°C and drops till -5°C at most. But with right preparation and guidance, all the winter treks can be done in a safe manner while having the most fun. If you are planning for a winter trek at any of the above-mentioned destinations, you can contact us via email or WhatsApp at info@alpineramble.com or +977 9851175531