• Raj Kumar Basnet
  • Last Updated on Dec 12, 2023

Nepal's unrivaled Himalayan splendor is a must-visit attraction for travelers from all over the world! While treks can be accomplished at any time of year, the autumn and spring seasons in the higher Himalayan regions are generally regarded as the best. The spring and autumn seasons offer dazzling views of majestic mountains, as well as a pleasant environment conducive to travel. Summer and winter treks are also excellent opportunities to see Nepal.

Winter in Nepal lasts from December to February and is a wonderful time to go throughout the Himalayas. Not many people go trek in the Himalayas during winter. Some people avoid traveling in the winter believing that the cold would ruin their trip. Some people may have difficulties trekking in the winter, but it is often enjoyable! Certain locations are especially closed during the winter because of the risk of avalanches and snow blocking the trail. There are, however, a variety of mild to moderate treks that are ideal for travels throughout the winter season.

Thus, it is important to research the places that you might want to trek during winter. We have compiled a list of the best winter treks in Nepal based on our more than two decades of involvement in the tourism sector. These are:

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Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara – 5 Days

Ghorepani Poon Hill is Nepal's most coveted winter trek, known for its golden sunrise views and stunning views of the Annapurna range. This trek is well-known for its varied cultures and customs, in addition to the spectacular views of the Himalayas. This walk leads you through a variety of ethnic communities where you'll have lots of opportunities to learn about Nepal's rural life. Similarly, throughout the winter, this trail is blanketed in white snow, which brightens the entire region.

In particular, the view of the Annapurna Range from Poon Hill is truly breathtaking. The majestic Annapurna range, as well as Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and many more nearby peaks highlight the majestic beauty of the Nepalese Himalaya.

The 5-day trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill starts and ends in Pokhara, making it short and easy and can be completed at any time of year and by people of all ages. It's one of the best winter excursions because it's effortlessly captivating.

Sarangkot Dhampus Hike – 8 Days

The Dhampus village is situated on a high ridge with spectacular views of the lowlands as well as the towering snow-capped mountain peaks. Interact with friendly people and learn how to handle home tasks the old-fashioned way. You can also extend your Dhampus trekking by including Sarangkot for some spectacular sunset and sunrise views of the Himalayas.

The trail is vibrant, with stunning natural landscapes and opportunities to see wild birds and animals. Throughout the hike, you will pass past terraced farmlands, rhododendron forests, and a few settlements. Likewise, the Himalayan range serves as a breathtaking backdrop. You can also enjoy the dawn and sunset across the snow-capped mountain ranges from Dhampus village. The weather though cold in winter is sunny and the sky is crystal clear! The clear views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhare will make your winter trek worthwhile!

The 8 days trek to Dhampus and Sarangkot during winter is a warm and cozy journey with less crowd and more solitude to enjoy!

Everest Base Camp Trek – 14 Days

Many people are unaware that trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) in Nepal during the coldest months of the year is attainable. While it may not be the peak of the season, and in some spots, trekking poles (or even crampons) may be required to navigate the hard-packed, slick snow, trekking to Everest in the winter has its advantages. The journey traverses through and past some of the world's most beautiful landscapes, including Kala Patthar, Tengboche Monastery, Namche Bazaar, and the Khumbu Glacier, to mention a few.

While the peak trekking seasons for EBC are typically March to May and September to November, experienced trekkers should not rule out a winter trip. Although the weather is generally colder in the winter than in the summer, the views of the terrain are often much more spectacular, and there are always more spaces at the trekking lodges. Trekking in the winter does not necessitate special equipment, but you should wear the thickest clothing you can find, as temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in the lodges.

The trek to Everest Base Camp for 14 days is an amazing opportunity to explore the land of the Himalayas, at the time of less crowdy and tranquil winter!

Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek – 12 Days

The Mardi Himal Trek, which sits beneath the Machhapuchhre range, is relatively new, making it one of Nepal's off-the-beaten-path treks. The adventure takes you through a mystical journey on an oak and rhododendron woodland. The trail passes through winter snow and opens up to a spectacular view of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and its aligned pinnacles. The Mardi Himal Trek takes you over narrow trails and past modest, mild springs.

This trek also includes crossing rapid-flowing rivers via iron-clad and bamboo bridges. One of the attractions of people's trips is seeing the faces of innumerable locals and learning about their rural way of life. Experiencing Mardi when it is covered in white snow is a spectacular sight to see. Thus, it makes for the best winter trek!

The 12-day trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp during winter is pretty doable and unique and every moment during the trek is bound to be worthwhile!

Langtang Valley Trek – 12 Days

Every year, hundreds of trekkers go on the Langtang valley trek to explore a true blend of natural and cultural riches. Trekkers can enjoy spectacular scenery, rhododendron woodlands, and local culture and traditions while on the trail. This is the most enticing and engaging expedition that takes only a few weeks to complete and it's perfect for winter!

In winter, people from all over the world visit the valley and explore the valley's more than 70 glaciers. The trek to Langtang valley is one of Nepal's safest high-altitude trekking routes, among the several winter treks available. Avalanches and other altitude challenges are unlikely to occur during this expedition. Thus, trekkers will be able to take in the staggeringly beautiful scenery of the Langtang valley.

Kyanjin Ri, located near Kyanjin Gompa, provides a panoramic view of the Langtang range. Exploring this icy splendor during the winter is now safe and enjoyable.

Thus, your 12-day Langtang valley trek is a winter destination for thousands of trekkers from all over the world.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 10 Days

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an incredible trek that takes you through a variety of landscapes and cultures, spectacular Himalayan flora and fauna, a rich mountain perspective, terraced fields, and Magar and Gurung villages rich in history and tradition. Mt Annapurna in Nepal is the world's tenth highest peak, and the journey to its base camp, which is at a height of 4130 meters, is beyond breathtaking.

This trek is one of Nepal's most popular and scenic treks, offering stunning Himalayan scenery, amazing views of the world's highest mountain, culturally rich villages and valleys, waterfalls, gorges between the highest peaks, and ever-flowing glacier rivers and glacier lakes.

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek in the winter is an excellent choice since there is less traffic on the trail, bright skies, and a moderate day temperature. Although, in winter, you might notice some snow and heavy ice patches on the well-worn routes.

The crystal clear panoramic views of the Himalayas during the 10-day trek to Annapurna Base Camp make up for the chilling cold during the winter!

Tamang Heritage Trail Trek – 11 Days

Tamang Heritage Trail Trek is a fascinating culture trek through the secluded valley, where you will see the Tamang community's traditional lifestyle, culture, hospitality, and beautiful countryside. The trek is quite short and simple! The heritage trek includes historic villages of the indigenous region which suits as an entirely new adventure for adventure seekers. You will trek through lush woods and snow-capped mountains, and the trail will also touch the stunning Langtang Valley Trek route.

The 11-days Tamang Heritage Trek is relatively new and makes sure you experience the authentic Tamang Heritage of the people of the Himalayas! This is the route to pursue if you want to try new things over your winter break. After all, the mountain scenery and genuine cultural experience make this journey a lot of fun.

Khopra Ridge Danda Trek – 15 Days

This off-the-beaten-path experience, also known as the Khopra Ridge, offers a peaceful alternative to the region's more popular treks. The trek explores the Annapurna region's hidden gems.

It has all of the elements of traditional trekking trails, with a superb blend of culture, rural communities, and unique wildlife. Furthermore, you will journey through a variety of environments, ranging from deep forests to high alpine locations. Additionally, you will be treated to panoramic mountain vistas as well as the vibrant color of rice fields heaped on top of one another and falling into the valley.

The trek up to Khopra ridge is worthwhile during winter because the views are simply stunning. It's wonderful seeing the white peaks flare-up in the morning sunlight. It's fantastic!

Aside from these magnificent mountain views, the journey passes past blue Kaire Lake, where the mountains' spectacular reflections can be observed. Overall, it's a terrific adventure that's much more remarkable to discover in the winter. And, as a result of these ample resources, the 15-day Khopra Ridge Trek stands out among Nepal's winter treks.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 10 Days

If we had to recommend a short and easy Himalayan trek in winter, it would be the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. You will have an extremely breathtaking experience when you embark on this excursion.

You will be on one of the top trekking expeditions in the Annapurna region of the Himalayas as you embark on the experience. Likewise, you journey the lovely Himalayan foothills, where you can appreciate nature and mountain vistas. These aspects make this journey one of the best, from wildlife to mountain views.

The 10-day trek to Ghorepani and Poon Hill starts from Kathmandu and takes you to Pokhara where you finally start the trek. Moreover, it calls for 5 trekking days in total and then you head back to Kathmandu, making it a convenient winter trek experience!

Chisapani Nagarkot Hike – 3 Days

The Chisapani Nagarkot hike is a great way to get close to nature while still around Kathmandu. It's ideal for those who can't hike for weeks at a time. It is a terrific way to get away from the city. It urges you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of aboriginal life. In the same manner, exploring these landscapes in the winter is amazing. The woodlands that surround the trail provide a relaxing atmosphere. And the scenery along the way is breathtaking. The grounds open up to snow-crossed mountains as you walk down the stone walkway.

The atmosphere is cozy and sunny! The 3-day winter hike to Chisapani and Nagarkot is worth taking effort! Thus, this winter hike allows you to experience nature's grandeur without having to travel far.

Whether you opt for a winter trek over Nepal's most famous hiking trails or a series of stunning day treks exploring Nepal's countryside on foot, the thrill of winter trekking is absolving, albeit physically hard. The reward of admiring the grandeur setting with a blanket of snow and frozen lakes, on the other hand, is an unforgettable experience in and of itself!

At Outfitter Nepal, we offer the best winter trek packages for you! Our winter trek packages are meticulously created, pouring our two-decade worth of experience while designing the itinerary. We are certain that your trek with us will undoubtedly be the best Nepali experience you will ever get! Likewise, we are flexible, and we make sure to prioritize your needs above anything else. Similarly, you can easily customize your travels and we are happy to help! Contact us without any hesitation to book a departure date or we can schedule your departure with a date of your convenience!

Raj Kumar Basnet

Raj Kumar Basnet

Hello, Hi & Namaste Everyone !

Raj Kumar Basnet holds more than two decades of travelling experience in different regions of Nepal. He has trekked in both popular and off-the-beaten-path Nepali trekking trails which have allowed him to gain expertise in tourism. With years of field experience under his belt, he is now concentrating on sharing as much of his tourism knowledge as possible. Now, the co-owner of Outfitter Nepal, he hopes that the knowledge he’s gained over the years would deem helpful for the travellers visiting Nepal!

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