Best Winter Treks in Nepal

Nepal is famous for its rich culture, diverse lifestyle and enormous tourism opportunities. Some people travel to Nepal to experience its culture and the heritage the people carry. While others are here for the adventures you can find in the land. Trekking and Hiking are the most popular adventures. Other adventures include rafting, canyoning, jungle safaris and more.

Nepal has an exquisite terrain that lends for excellent trekking trails. The wildlife, natural beauty and the lifestyle all await to be explored in Nepal.

The weather in the country is good and predictable throughout the year. On the other hand, schedule may not be as predictable as the weather. The time you can take out for your treks may turn out to be during the winters in Nepal. You may be skeptic about your trekking plans, let us handle that.

People may say that autumn is the best time for trekking trips, but that is not all true. You can enjoy the mountains in all its snow-capped glory during the winters of Nepal. Despite these odds not all trekking routes make it to the list of best winter treks in Nepal.

The treks offer scenic landscapes and breathtaking views. You can also enjoy the local culture that differs from place to place. You cannot forget the delicious local cuisine you can eat. You will also get the chance to witness the warmth the people have to offer.

Weather in Nepal

The climate in Nepal differs based on the geographical distribution. The major seasons seen throughout the country are spring, monsoon, autumn and winter. Spring in Nepal lasts from March until May. Monsoon ranges from June to August. Autumn lasts from September to November. Winter lasts from December to February.

The winters in the north are crispy and severe while the summers are fresh and breezy. The southern regions enjoy a mild winter to a humid and tropical summer.

The season most preferred by trekkers in Nepal is the autumn season. The trekking routes and destinations usually witness a pleasant dry weather. The routes get occasional drizzle or snow based on the altitude of the destination. The season also offers you the beauty of landscape. The flowers are in full bloom and different animals littered on the trails of your route. The most popular trails of the season are the Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek and more.

Do not shy away from trekking just because it is winter in Nepal. Any trekker, be it a beginner or professional, has a lot of options even during winter. Let the ever frowned upon winter make a trek with amazing stories. And guess what, the stories of your winter trek will be far more interesting like the mountains of Nepal.

Winter in Nepal

Winters in Nepal run from severe to mild depending on the trail you choose to walk on. Nepal will serve you cold altitude and clear skies during the winter season. But do not let the weather forecast take your trekking during the winter dreams down. The higher altitude treks will be a challenge for rookie trekkers so you can opt for the low altitude treks. In case you are a seasoned trekker, you can choose the more challenging, higher altitude treks.

The lower altitude treks may not seem as pleasing to you but do not judge the trail by its altitude. Like the higher altitude treks, low altitude treks have its own charisma. These treks also give you the panoramic view of the mountains in all its snowy magnificence.

Winter season means a cool atmosphere with stunning visibility. Another plus point about trekking in the winter is that there are very few people. The result is a very peaceful trek to your destination. You also do not need to worry about rain during the winters.

Less trekkers means you do not need to worry about booking your hotels beforehand. You do not need to rush yourself to find a hotel or queue for food. The hotels will have plenty of rooms for you to choose from. This is the best reason and one of the most important reasons to trek in Nepal during winters.

P.S. The thing about winters in Nepal is they are usually short and not as severe. It means that the temperature will be perfect for your treks towards the end of the season (February).

Recommended Winter Treks in Nepal

The natural landscape of Nepal gives it many places to trek. Any route you pick will expose you to mystical views that will leave you in awe. Some people love the trek and experience so much that they come to walk through the trails more than once.

These trails all have same yet different things to offer to the trekkers. Another mountain range, another local culture, and another adventure off your bucket list.

Now you might get dizzy looking at the long list of places left to explore. You may get confused which trail to conquer this year or next. Stop worrying yourself. Browse through the routes we have picked for you. These are among the best winter treks Nepal has to offer. (The Great Adventure Treks and Expeditions). Some of the Best Winter Treks in Nepal are:

The Royal Syaglung Trekking

The Syaglung trek is one of the lesser chosen trails; even on the peak trekking season. The Royal Syaglung Trek will take you on a short circuit to the southern part of the Annapurna Range. This trip is an ideal trip for first time travelers to experience Nepal. The trip will offer you a panoramic view of the majestic mountains and an up close views of the fields.

Highlights of the Trek:

• A short trek ideal for beginners.
• You will get a panoramic view of Annapurna, Lamjung and Manaslu range as you reach Bahun Gaon. And when you look below, you will see the Begnas Lake.
• The trail will come with a magnificent view of the Annapurna range, the Manaslu range. And not to forget the majestic Mount Machhapuchhre the Fish Tail.
• You will be passing through traditional Gurung villages, serene forests and paddy fields.

Poonhill and Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Poonhill and Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the more popular destinations. The trails are mostly crowded in the autumn season. But since it’s winter, you can peacefully make your way to the Annapurna Base Camp. You will be passing the beautiful Poonhill on the way.

Highlights of the Trek:

• You will be walking through the traditional mid-hills villages. Do stop for a chat with friendly locals.
• The challenging yet exciting walk across the terrain ranging from alpine to arctic.
• Walking your tired feet amid the blooming rhododendrons.
• The breathtaking panoramic view of the snow peaks of Annapurna I.
• Getting as close as possible to the magnificent Annapurna mountain range.

Annapurna – Siklis Trek

The Annapurna and Siklis Trekking is an alpine region trek. It offers an idle introduction to Nepal’s cultural and natural beauty. This trip is also among the trips less frequented by westerners. The trail will lead you into the heart of the traditional local village of Siklis. Siklis village is an unspoiled area perched 2,030 meters above sea level.

Highlights of the Trek:

• The magnificent view of the massive Annapurna-Lamjung and Manaslu mountain ranges.
• Unwind yourself in the few, small hot springs you will pass on the way to Khajibung.
• The magnificent panoramic views of the Annapurnas and of Mount Machhapuchhre (FishTail)
• You will get an unrivaled panoramic view of the snow peaks from the campsite at Kalikasthan. Mount Dhaulagiri in the west. The Annapurna range, Mount Manaslu, Peak 29, and Mount Himalchuli in the east.
• The ex-Gurkha soldiers will share their stories when you reach the Siklis village. These are the first hand stories of their days in the British and Indian armies.
• The sun rising and setting over the huge ‘whaleback’ peak of Lamjung Himal that dominates the skyline above the Siklis village.

Panchase

Panchase Trekking is a place of pilgrimage for the locals in the Annapurna area. Every year the locals pay homage, respect, and prayers to their deceased ancestors. They do it by making offerings to the local deities and mountain spirits. The Panchase Trek is a short trip up the hills. The trail offers a splendid view of the southern belt of the Annapurna Range.

Highlights of the Trek:

• The the superb panorama of Mount Dhaulagiri, Mount Annapurna and Mount Manaslu range.
• You will be walking through the cool shade of the temperate oak and rhododendron forests.
• Get a magnificent view of the surrounding landscapes at Panchase Bhanjyang.
• There is a view tower in Panchase village. It offers the panoramic view of the western and eastern Himalayan range of mountains.
• On your way back, you follow the winding trail of the glacial river Modi upstream to camp at Syauli Bazaar.

Arun Valley and Milke Danda Trekking

Arun Valley and Milke Danda Trekking route take you on an adventure to the world’s’ highest mountain and to the mid hills of Mt. Kumbhakarna mountain range. This trip will let you explore the alpine forest in the high landscape where you can find rare species of orchids, rural farm and traditional villages. This trip begins with a scenic flight to Tumlingtar. You then catch the 4 hour drive to Chinchilla. Your walking journey starts from Chinchilla.

Highlights of the Trek:

• You are trekking to get to the highest mid hills around Kumbhakarna mountain range.
• Catching the panoramic flight and walking amidst the rhododendron alpine forests.
• The remote and least trekked upon trail. The remoteness of the trail will let you see rare flora & fauna in their natural habitat.
• You will see the panoramic view of the Kumbhakarna, Makalu when you reach the ridge with the Kanchenjunga towards the east.
• Jaljala will offer you perfect tranquility in the shade of perfect wilderness. It is famous among nature lovers and botanists.

Jomsom Trek

The Jomsom Trek is one of the most interesting treks to Annapurna & Kali-Gandaki regions. You will follow the ancient cavern route to a more diverse range of climate, vegetation, and cultures. The adventure begins from Pokhara and winds its way up to Jomsom and the highest spot of Muktinath.

Highlights of the Trek:

• Your experience on this trek will range from the rich rainforests to the windswept Tibetan landscapes.
• You will be passing the old Trans-Himalayan Salt Trade Route.
• You will have the chance to immerse in the natural hot spring of Tatopani.
• Breathtaking routes carved out on high cliffs with the Kali Gandaki flowing below.
• You will be walking on the highest mountain pass in Nepal – Thorong La pass. Thorong La pass offers the magnificent views of the landscape below.
• A peaceful walk to the Muktinath Temple.

Rolwaling trek

Rolwaling trek is considered one of the most difficult trekking in Nepal, mostly due to its location. It is buried between steep ice-giants. What makes the trip worthwhile is the captivating view of both Mount Langtang and Mount Everest. The trail to Rolwaling pass goes between huge mountains.

Highlights of the Trek:

• You will see the enchanting views of Majestic Mount Gauri Shanker.
• You will get the perplexing views of Mt. Melungtse, Mt. Dorje Lakpa and Mt. Tashi Lapcha
• Along with the snow capped mountains you will also see the beautiful waterfalls and the Glacial Tsho Rolpa Lake and monasteries.
• The view of Mount Gaurishankar above the Rolwaling Valley is a stunning highlight.
• You will be surrounded by the grand mountains providing a 360-degree panoramic view.

Everest Panorama trek

Everest Panorama Trek is easy compared to some of the other treks. It takes you high up along trails to Tengboche Monastery. The trip is a short one. However, it offers scenic views of the world’s highest peaks from Everest, Lhotse, Thamserku, Ama Dablam to many other snow peaks.

Highlights of the Trek:

• This is the best route if you do not have enough time.
• Taking a winter trek to the Everest Base Camp is very challenging so this is a better option.
• You are killing two birds with one stone on this trek. You get the breathtaking views of Mount Everest and Mount Langtang on a short trip.
• You can run or jump on many exciting suspension bridges laden with prayer flags.
• The trail from Everest National Park will climb steeply giving you breathtaking views.

Helambu trek

The Helambu Trek starts either from Sundarijal or Melamchi Pul. This wonderful trip will take you through varied arrays of vegetation and cultures. It will lead you through the charming villages of Helambu. The religion, monasteries in Helambu shows the rich Buddhist culture of the people living there.

Highlights of the Trek:

• The trail provides a picturesque scene from paddy fields to the high alpine area.
• You will notice the view of the world’s highest mountain ranges is always with you.
• At its highest point of this trip – Tharepati (3,505 meters) you will get a striking view of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu and Annapurna range.
• You also get to interact with people of various cultures ranging from the Tamangs and Yolmus to the Brahmins and Chhetris.

Tips for Winter Trekking in Nepal

Winter trekking in Nepal is already a different thing to do. To make it the best and most adventurous one you have ever had, here are some tips for winter trekking in Nepal.

Plan your trip:

It may seem very obvious but you will need to plan a trekking trip well. When you choose a trail this winter, you will need to keep the altitude, the temperature, the weather forecasts in mind. So do a through homework on the place, the weather and the terrain you will be walking on.

Layer Up: The key is to pack just enough clothes. You will need more layers when you are walking in the cold. It’s better to be able to strip down on layers than not having enough. The day time will be warm with the sun out and you walking. By sundown, your body has already lost a lot of heat. The trick is to layer up by 4 pm, when your body is still warm.

Use a neck warmer: You need to protect your neck as much as any part of your body. If your neck is cold, you will end up feeling very cold and may even get sick. So use a neck warmer or a muffler to keep your neck warm.

Carry a thermos: Your flask will save your day in the winter treks. Fill your flask/thermos with hot water before leaving the hotel or the lodge you have stayed in. You can now sip on warm water rather than a cold one.

Bring safety gear: You should carry your safety gears to survive the winter treks. Having things like a trail map, a first aid kit, a compass, a pocket knife, hand warming packets and a headlamp will go a long way.

Invest in good gear: You should be able to rely on the gear you carry as much as your feet. You should at least invest well on crampons or snowshoes, waterproof pants and jacket, knee-high gaiters, waterproof boots, an insulated jacket, a lightweight backpack, hiking poles, a camp stove, hats/gloves, and goggles or wrap-around sunglasses.It may be tempting to buy knock off but investing on good gear will make all the difference. You don’t want to learn this the hard way.

Double up on sleeping bags: We recommend you take a fleece liner and at least two sleeping bags to keep yourself warm in the night. Having two sleeping bags will make all difference. In the nights, the temperature drops to negative figures.

Be prepared to turn around: Legendary mountaineer Ed Viesturs (who has climbed every 8,000 meter peak in the world) once said, “Getting to the top is optional, getting down is mandatory.” Sometimes, despite planning well, things might not go your way. So you must be prepared to turn back before you hurt yourself. The trail has been there for a long time and it will be there when you get back too. Focus on the entire trip, not just the ascent.

Last Say

Trekking in winters of Nepal may seem like an impossible thing but that is not the case. This is why, we at Great Adventures will help you out. We want to make sure, you are picking the right trail to conquer this winter. Winters are definitely more challenging but it is not just a hopeless dream. Hence, we are here to help defeat this thought and take on the challenges in a comfortable way.