‘Snow flurries are about to fall and swirl around people’s legs like house cats. The moment is entrancing! One should tighten his or her shoe-lays and plan an adventure trip to feel the pulse of natural pulchritude… ‘
Trekking in winters is one of the most favored adventure activities that have achieved recognition, especially among the young citizens of India. With the changing times, the interest of the vacationers has also changed and local as well as the international tourists are constantly looking to enjoy the thrill of winter adventures in India. Today, trekking in India is an ultimate experience as the mighty Himalayas ranges are replete with incredible and enthralling trekking routes during the winter season.
Why one should trek in winters?
The hues of the Himalayas and its surrounding panorama turn into white due to the fluffs of cotton snow covering them. Trekking, especially in the high crests of the Himalayas, is an entirely different experience in itself. In the winter season, the snow-clad Himalayas become a trekker’s paradise. One of the good reasons to trek in the Himalayas during winters is that it just feels excellent to get out of the home and indulge in a little work out while enjoying the Mother Nature.
Top winter trek routes in Himalayas
Here are some of the best winter trek routes in the Himalayas where you can enjoy snow trekking:
Chopta Chandrashila Trek
This is perhaps one of the most beautiful winter trekking routes that has forever grasped the attention of the adventure freaks around the globe. Offering spectacular and the quaint snow view of the great Himalayas, this route is a treat for both the eyes and heart. Trekking here also gives the most miraculous view of the Nanda Devi, Kedar, Trishul and Chaukhamba summits.
Kedar Kantha Trek
This renowned trekking route situated in the north of Uttarakhand covers 958 Square kilometers of area. The elevation in the area varies from 1300-6000 mts, which makes it a more suitable winter trekking destination. The trail provides a great opportunity for adventure, picturesque beauty, and an actual experience of distant villages in Garhwal Himalayas.
Dodital Trek
Located at a height of 3307 meters above the sea level, the Dodital trek in Northern Uttarkashi is ideal for those who have moderate skills of trekking. While trekking, one will pass through the dense forests of Fir, Oak, Deodar and Rhododendron. Here one can also take pleasure in the beautiful view of Garhwal Himalayas. The Dodital Lake is famous for some rare species of fishes such as the Himalayan Golden Trout and many more. The woodland surrounding the lake is also full of flora and fauna. It proffers a tranquil set up for rest and recreation activities like angling and bird watching.
Frozen River Trek
Walking on Frozen River Chadar Trek is a unique experience for the adventure freaks. This trek is traditionally named as ‘Chadar Trek’ meaning the frozen sheet trek. This roadway is the only route for the Zanskaris during the winter season as all other paths are closed due to heavy snowfall at high passes. For centuries, this route had been used for trade by the locals of Zanskar. Today, the route is also famous amongst the winter trekkers and adventure enthusiasts.
Snow Leopard Trek
Snow Leopard Trek, situated in Ladakh, is of high passes at 4,600 meters of height in the outer Himalayas with its peaks forming the most striking feature of the region. The most exceptional part of winter trekking on the Snow Leopard trek is that it offers an opportunity to even visit the nearby situated Hemis National Park, which is rich in flora and fauna. The park is full of dry forests of birch, juniper and fir. Alpine grasslands and scrublands are also present here.
Winter is the perfect time to visit these adventurous destinations for trekking in the Himalayas. The imposing features of these destinations make it a smart decision to pack the rucksack and enjoy the winters or snow and return with a never-to-be-forgotten memories!
Kandpal Chandra Subhash
