It is undoubtedly possible to trek in Nepal during the winter season, which lasts from December to February. December starts the winter season, and February ends it. So, trekking in Nepal in December and February is best. However, January is the middle of winter, and only a few short and small treks are possible.
Winter trekking in Nepal takes your adventure to the next level. There is nothing like tranquil trails, magical surroundings, breathtaking mountain vistas, warm meals, and cozy nights in mountain lodges in the winter season.
We have seen the absurd practice of no winter trekking in the Himalayas, which refers to the misconception that all trails are impassable due to heavy snowfall and slippery conditions. While some trails are indeed not approachable in winter, there are many treks that you can do during cold season.
Top 10 winter treks in Nepal
We have hand-picked our top 10 best winter trek in Nepal packages and curated a helpful blog. You will also learn about the advantages and disadvantages of winter trekking. Moreover, we've shared our insider tips to ensure your winter trek holidays are not just adventurous but safe and phenomenal. If you have any queries about trekking in Nepal in any season, we're here to help you. Feel free to contact us anytime.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: 10 Days
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Winter
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is famous among trekkers for its adventure, beauty, and intimate encounters with the local Nepali communities. It is one of the most commercialized treks in the Annapurna region. So, trekkers will have excellent access to accommodation and meals during the journey.
Ghorepani Poon Hill is a short trek that you can complete in just ten days with arrival and departure days, or we also have 3 days short Poon Hill Trek, and Poon Hill ABC and Mardi Himal Trek which is available in winter season.
Explore the city's ancient historical marvels and travel to Pokhara, the gateway of the Annapurna region. From Pokhara, an hour-long drive will take you to Nayapul, the trailhead. The trekking route goes through rhododendron forested hills and passes by beautiful traditional Nepali villages.
You will cross multiple suspension bridges and streams on the way. The trail has a good pace and is well-established. In the winter season, you may have to walk in the snow. There are adventures and intimate encounters with the locals at every point of the journey.
Breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Nilgiri, and many other mountains will motivate you throughout the trek.
Ghorepani and Ghandruk are two popular villages you will visit during the trek. Gurung and Magar communities live in these villages, known for their beauty, welcoming locals, and mountain views. Likewise, Poon Hill is the highest point you will reach. In the winter season, it is covered with snow and offers an outstanding sunrise and winter panorama of the western Himalayan Mountains.
Major attractions of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Winter Months
A fantastic trek in the lower Annapurna region
Well-established trail, so it is an excellent trekking infrastructure
n winter, snow may cover the walking trail, making the journey like a trip to a winter wonderland
Empty trails, so you will have a peaceful trip
Welcoming and kind locals
Stunning landscapes and heavenly mountain panoramas
Explore the famous Ghorepani and Ghandruk villages
Trek through lush forested hills, crossing suspension bridges and terraces on the way
Hike to Poon Hill to see a gorgeous sunrise and a breathtaking view of the Western Himalayan mountain range
Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek: 12 Days
The Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is an entry-level offbeat trek in Annapurna. It is established east of the Annapurna Base Camp trail. This adventurous trek mostly passes through densely forested hills and a handful of small settlements. The Mardi Himal trek was introduced in 2012. It gradually gained popularity and is known to be one of the best alternatives for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek.
On the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek, you will have a much more raw and authentic experience because the route is not overly commercialized. You will hike to the Mardi Himal Base Camp, which is situated at 4,500 meters from sea level.
Mardi Himal hiking in winter season
The journey presents spectacular mountain panoramas and landscapes. During the trek, you will see Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mt. Fishtail, etc. Interactions with the local communities are limited until you descend to Sidhing village.
On the Mardi Himal Base camp trek, you will also explore Kathmandu and Pokhara, both quite popular among travelers. We also have a short Mardi Himal Trek, which starts and ends in Pokhara.
The trail is within the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna. In the winter season, the trail remains empty. You may come across a few local trekkers, but usually no foreigners. The trail gets covered with snow. Likewise, the views are extremely gorgeous during winter.
Annapurna Base Camp is the lap of the tenth tallest mountain in the world. Trekking here is adventurous, culturally enriching, and even more incredible in the winter season in Nepal.
The ABC trail passes through traditional Nepali villages where you will meet friendly locals and enjoy their hospitality. It is one of the most famous treks in Nepal, so the trail gets quite crowded during the peak trekking seasons.
However, you will enjoy the tranquil side of the Annapurna Base Camp hiking route in winter. You must be in good shape to do this trek, but previous trekking experience is not required. Snow-covered trails, bright and comfortable daytimes, cold nights/mornings, and soothing soups in the lodge will make the journey a lifetime experience. The mountains look best in winter, and the winter landscapes are out of this world.
You will have a great time trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp in winter. Annapurna Sanctuary is another highlight of this trek. You will enter the sanctuary above the Himalaya Hotel. Likewise, explore Hinku Cave and the Machhapuchhre Base Camp on the way.
Langtang Valley is located north of Kathmandu. It is inaccessible by car, so you will start hiking from Syabrubesi. Kyanjin Gompa is the highest point in the valley, where you will spend the night.
The trek offers a rich cultural heritage of Sherpa and Tamang communities and the rich biodiversity of Langtang National Park. The trail goes through dense forests and small mountain settlements. The hospitality of the villagers makes the journey incredible, and stunning mountain views will keep you fueled. While trekking, you will see many stupas, chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags.
It will show the locals' faith, even in this remote region. From Kyanjin Gompa, you will hike to Kyanjin Ri (4,773 m). It is the highest point on the Langtang Valley trek. Tserko Ri (5,033 m) is a fantastic option to hike higher.
In winter, the Langtang Valley trek route gets even more beautiful. Snow covers the entire region, enhancing the landscapes. Mountains like Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lhakpa, Shishapangma, Mt. Kang Guru, etc, are visible along the trail.
Major attractions of Langtang Valley Trekking in Winter Season
An adventurous trekking program for the winter season
Beautiful mountain views and sceneries
Easily accessible from Kathmandu
Explore remote villages and locals' daily life
Enjoy tranquility and rejuvenate
Cozy time in lodges
Visit Kyanjin Gompa, an ancient monastery
Hike to Kyanjin Ri
Snow-covered trails
Langtang Gosaikunda Lake Trek: 14 Days
Gosaikunda Lake (4,380 m) is a beautiful high-altitude lake in the Langtang region. Our Langtang Gosaikunda trek also combines the Langtang Valley excursion, which makes the trip 14 days long. However, if you are short on time, you can only do the Short Gosaikunda Lake Trek, which you can finish in five days. During the peak of the winter season, the lake froze. The Gosaikunda Lake is both frozen and unfrozen.
In winter, snow-capped peaks and mountains cover the lakes, making them even more beautiful. You will first trek to Langtang Valley and descend to Lama Hotel, where the trail separates Gosaikunda Lake. On the way, you will also visit Sing Gompa, an ancient monastery. The trails are within the Langtang National Park, home to hundreds of flora and fauna. You will ascend and descend through forested hills.
The Gosaikunda Lake
Snow-covered trails are inevitable, so you have to walk carefully. Although the temperature drops below freezing, the daytime remains warm and sunny. You must wear proper insulated clothes to keep warm and enjoy the trek. We recommend the Gosaikunda Lake trek in the winter season to both beginner and experienced trekkers. The journey will be tranquil and once in a lifetime.
Major attractions of Gosaikudna Langang Trai in Winter
An adventurous trek in the Langtang region
Winter landscapes and breathtaking mountain views
Trailhead is easily accessible from Kathmandu
Safe and adventurous
Explore the beautiful Langtang Valley
Enjoy the phenomenal beauty of the Gosaikunda Lake
Visit ancient monasteries while trekking
Intimate encounters with the locals and heart-warming hospitality
Everest Panorama Trek
Trekking to the Everest Base Camp may not be achievable for all trekkers, but it doesn't mean you have to stop dreaming about witnessing Mount Everest. The Everest Panorama trek is designed to let you enjoy beautiful Sherpa villages and a stunning view of Mt. Everest without trekking to EBC.
Everest Panorama Hiking Trail
You will ascend to Tengboche village on this trek. The view of Mt. Everest and Mt. Ama Dablam is breathtaking from here. Likewise, you will also visit the biggest monastery in the Everest region in Tengboche village. Likewise, Lukla and Namche Bazaar are two other famous villages you will explore during the Everest Panorama trekking. To acclimatize, you will spend two nights in Namche Bazaar before ascending to Tengboche and one more night here while descending.
In Namche Bazaar, you will hike to the Hotel Everest View and Khumjung Monastery (optional). Similarly, you will visit the Everest Photo Gallery and Sherpa Culture Museum. FYI: This trek is also called the Everest View Trek. The trek will take you through verdant landscapes and offer mountain views of Kongde Ri, Chamlang, Thamserku, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The Lukla flight will also give you a heavenly aerial view of the Himalayas.
Major attractions of Everest Panorama Trek in Winter Season
An easy/moderate trek in the Everest region, ideal for all age groups and travelers on a short holiday
A full day in Kathmandu to explore ancient historical sites and bustling markets
Enjoy the teeming flora and fauna of the Sagarmatha National Park
Spend nights in beautiful villages like Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche
Hike to the Hotel Everest View, one of the highest hotels in the world
Explore many stupas and monasteries along the trail, including the biggest monastery in the region
Trek through dense rhododendron and magnolia forests
The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River and crosses it several times via suspension bridges
Experience the simple mountain lifestyle and see the daily life of the Sherpa community
Witness pretty sceneries and mountains like Thamserku, Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, etc
Chisapani Nagarkot Trek: 03 Days
Chisapani nagarkot hiking trail
The Chisapani Nagarkot trek is the shortest and easiest trek from Kathmandu. It is a quick getaway from the city's bustle into lush hills and rural villages. The trek involves two days of light walking. Travelers of all ages can do the Chisapani Nagarkot trek with us. It is also a great family adventure. During the Chisapani Nagarkot trekking, you will hike through teeming forests on the outskirts of Kathmandu.
The trail offers tranquility, beautiful landscapes, and stunning views of surrounding hills. Likewise, you will also see snow-capped Himalayan mountain views from Nagarkot. The trek offers adventure and serenity and includes Nepali cultural heritage. Chisapani is a beautiful village. You can observe the local lifestyle and practices.
Likewise, while returning from Nagarkot, you will also visit Changu Narayan Temple. It is one of the oldest temples in Nepal. Nagarkot is the highest point on this trek. It is a famous hill station in Kathmandu. Both locals and foreigners love to visit this place to unwind and enjoy peace.
The Chisapani Nagarkot trek is an excellent trip from Kathmandu packed with adventure, superb landscapes, and peace. On a clear day, Mount Everest is also seen from Nagarkot. The area is covered with snow in the winter, making it a top tourist attraction. The trail is inside Shivapuri National Park, home to many species of flora and fauna.
Major attractions of Chisapani nagarkot in Winter Season
A quick getaway near Kathmandu to take a break from the bustle of the city and unwind
Explore the outskirts of Kathmandu and enjoy beautiful landscapes
Hike through lush forested hills, relishing tranquility and the soothing scent of nature
An easy hike, ideal for all age groups, including kids and senior citizens
Witness stunning views of Mt. Everest and other Himalayan mountain ranges from Chisapani and Nagarkot
The sunrise from Nagarkot is also quite famous
Trek through the Shivapuri National Park, where you may see many birds and monkeys
Visit Changu Narayan Temple, one of the most significant and oldest temples in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Tamang Heritage Trek: 11 Days
The Tamang Heritage Trek is a community trek in the Langtang region. This is the closest trekking region to Kathmandu and is famous for Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda Lake. Unlike other treks in the Langtang region, the Tamang Heritage trek is easier and gains low altitude. The highest point is 3,165 meters, but you will not spend a night here.
The highest altitude you will spend a night is Tatopani, which is 2,600 meters above sea level. Therefore, the Tamang Heritage trek is ideal for trekkers looking for a low-altitude trek in Nepal.
The journey is adventurous and culturally enriching. The Tamang Heritage Trail was created to uplift the Tamang community that resides in this area. Tamangs are one of the indigenous groups in Nepal and are believed to be the descendants of Tibetans.
The Tamang Village
The trekking route ascends and descends through dense forests and uneven hills. Along the way, you will see many stupas, chortens, and prayer flags. Interacting with the locals and their heartwarming welcome is one of the main highlights of the Tamang Heritage Trek. Likewise, you will enjoy nature, wilderness, tranquility, and wonderful landscapes.
Mountains like Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, Shishapangma, and many others are seen throughout the way. In Tatopani, you can spend time in the natural hot springs with healing properties.
You'll also explore the holy lake Parvati Kund and the historical fort of Rasuwagadhi. Timure is the last village on Nepal's northern border that follows the ancient salt trade route. You will spend a night here as well.
Major attractions of Tamang Heritage Trek in winter time
An excellent community trekking program in Nepal
Play a huge role in uplifting the local Tamang community of Langtang region by doing this trek
A low-altitude, adventurous trek
Explore the lush forests and teeming flora and fauna of the Langtang National Park
Experience a simple mountain lifestyle and get the see culture and traditions of the Tamang people
Trek through dense forests, crossing beautiful rivers and streams
Witness stunning scenery and mountain views of Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, Sishapangma, etc
Travel close to the northern border of Nepal, which is an ancient trade route to Tibet
Explore the holy Parvati Kund (lake) and the historical fort of Rasuwagadhi
Khopra with Poon Hill Trek: 08 Days
Khopra Ridge Trek is a community trekking program in the Annapurna region. The trek leads to the holy Khayar Lake, 4,660 meters above sea level. Our Khopra Ridge trek is 8 days long and combines famous destinations like Ghandruk village, Ghorepani village, and Poon Hill viewpoint.
During the Holiday, you will see breathtaking mountain views of Annapurna, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, etc. Unlike other treks in the Annapurna region, the Khopra Ridge trek route is less busy so that trekkers will enjoy tranquility to the fullest.
Himalaya view from Poon hill
This Trip is also not very famous, so the trekking infrastructure is limited. Because of that, you will experience authentic mountain remoteness. The trek is adventurous and exciting. The interactions with the locals are also very fulfilling. The trail goes through rice terraces, forested hills, and small settlements.
Following our Khopra Ridge trek itinerary, you will also get a chance to explore Kathmandu and Pokhara, two famous tourist cities in Nepal.
Overall, the Khopra Ridge trek is a great eco-friendly community trek to give back to the mountain people.
Major attractions Khopra with Poon Hill Trek in winter in Nepal
A fantastic eco-friendly, community trek in the Annapurna region
Trek through the rice terraces, lush forests, and small villages of the Annapurna Conservation Area
Explore famous Ghandruk and Ghorepani villages
Witness a beautiful sunrise and breathtaking mountain panorama from the Poon Hill viewpoint
Follow a tranquil route to Khopra Ridge
Less crowded trail after Ghorepani village
Experience authentic mountain remoteness
Explore Khayar Lake, a high-altitude holy lake
Enjoy the heart-warming hospitality of the locals
Everest Base Camp Trek: 16 Days
The Everest Base Camp trek is world-renowned, but foreigners mostly do it in spring and autumn. The region remains empty in winter, so it is perfect for those looking for less busy trails. The winter season has unstable weather and a cold climate, which keeps the majority of trekkers away. However, winter trekking to Everest Base Camp is a lifetime experience and is recommended.
If you like cold weather and snow, you will enjoy trekking to the base of the tallest mountain in the world. Our Everest Base Camp trek itinerary is 16 days long, which is ideal for the winter season. It has a preparation day in Kathmandu and ample mountain acclimatization days. Trekking to EBC in winter is challenging but also incredibly satisfying.
Everest Base Camp in Winter
The daytime stays mostly sunny and bright, while the nights and mornings are cold. The landscapes and mountain views are outstanding. The scenery becomes even more fantastic once the region is covered with snow. As not many trekkers are in the area, you will receive full attention from the locals, enhancing your overall experience. And not to mention, the trek will present you with breathtaking landscapes and heavenly mountain vistas.
Major attractions of EBC Tip in winter
Explore Kathmandu's ancient historical sites, temples, and museums
Take a thrilling flight between Kathmandu and Lukla
Witness breathtaking winter landscapes and stunning mountain panoramas throughout the trek
Enjoy empty trails and tranquility
Trek through forested hills and beautiful Sherpa villages
Get to see the winter lifestyle in the Everest region
Hike to the Hotel Everest View and Nagarjuna Hill
Visit ancient monasteries on the way and cross several suspension bridges
Reach the lap of the highest mountain in the world
Hike to Kala Patthar to witness a gorgeous sunrise and a heavenly view of Mt. Everest
Advantages of winter trekking Trips in Nepal
The best perk of winter trekking in Nepal is peaceful trails. Most trekkers travel in the Himalayas in the spring and autumn seasons. So, in winter, the trails remain empty.
Snowfall transforms the Himalayas and enhances its beauty. The landscapes are magical. Verdant valleys change to a winter wonderland, and mountains sparkle with thick snow blankets.
Some days can be gloomy, but most are bright and sunny. So, you will have excellent opportunities to capture breathtaking photos and videos.
Lakes are frozen all over the Himalayas, and the views differ from spring and autumn.
Fewer trekkers allow animals to be more active. You may spot rare wildlife and birds.
There are ample accommodations to choose from. Winter is a downtime for lodges in the Himalayas, so bookings are unnecessary. You will also get a lower rate than in spring and autumn.
Undivided attention from the locals. You will get many opportunities to interact with the locals and have memorable moments.
Disadvantage of winter trekking holidays in Nepal
The hard winter weather and climate remain at the top of our disadvantage list. The temperature significantly drops as the elevation rises, and you may face heavy snowfall and snow storms.
Higher trails like Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu Circuit, and Everest Three Passes may be closed because of heavy snowfall. You have to be extra attentive to weather and trail conditions.
As per the trail condition, you may need to wear crampons. Likewise, additional winter clothes are required.
Unstable weather leads to flight delays to Lukla. Likewise, there is a high risk of flight cancellation.
The daylight hours are the shortest in winter. You must start trekking early to reach the destination before sunset.
The cold climate and snow-covered trails make the trek more challenging. Even a moderate trek requires extra effort. Therefore, trekkers have to be physically fit.
Above 4,000 meters, the lodges may close as the locals descend to lower altitudes to spend the winter season.
Useful tips for winter trekking in Nepal
We, Outfitter Himalaya, have been organizing winter treks for many years, which make us professional. Our first-hand experience makes your winter trek in Nepal smooth and hassle-free. Below, we have collected our top tips for winter trekking that will make your journey phenomenal:
Have contingency days in your itinerary. We recommend at least 2 to 3 extra days in case you get stuck due to poor weather or flight delays.
Layer your clothes appropriately. Wear a sweat-proof base layer, insulated clothes as a mid-layer, and cover with fleece and windproof outer layers.
Do not wear synthetic or wool clothes during trekking. It takes longer to dry and will make you uncomfortable. You can buy trekking clothes in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Most clothes are also available to rent.
Buy or rent a high-quality sleeping bag.
Stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness. Drinking water can become very tough in cold climates. Therefore, you must carry a high-quality water bottle to keep water warm for at least 12 hours. We also recommend carrying a small flask bottle for warm tea or soup during trekking.
Pack ample nuts, bars, and snacks for the journey. We also recommend carrying ORS or electrolytes. It will provide you with instant energy.
Carry spare batteries and power banks to take many videos and photos. We also recommend a solar charger. You may have to pay USD 1 to USD 3 per device to charge in the lodge.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed reading the above information about trekking in Nepal in the winter season. Let us know if you need any further information.
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