Winter is coming and bringing the lots of snow with it. Trekking is not an 12 months affair in Himalayas. Most of the treks receive heavy snowfall during winter, hence not suited for traveling. On the other hand, winter trekking can be a lifetime experience. Although, safety issues are of prime concern while going for winter treks. But for a adventure lover taking some risk to get the kick could be better than spending time at home or office doing regular work. Here I have compiled a list of winter treks with lesser risks, which you can choose to go this winter.
Prashar Lake Trek
Prashar is totally accessible by road but has a trek option too. This 7 kms long trek in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh can be one of the best option for winter trekking. Trek starts from Baggi village with a gradual hike, which can be covered in 3 to 5 hours. The later part of the trek can be snow covered. Prashar usually get one to two feet of snow. The views of snow covered lake, temple and other Dhauladhar range are just mesmerising.
Trek Start Location: Baggi village
Trek Length: 7 kms
Accommodation: PWD and Forest Rest Houses and Camping
Triund Trek
Triund in Dhauladhar ranges of Himalayas, is one of the best and most popular trekking options for beginners. It is an all weather trek and remains crowded most of the time especially in summer. But it also has become a hot destination for winter trekking. The best thing about Triund trek in winter is that you can get every facility like guide, stay, camping and food, though at some higher cost. But experiencing snow covered Dhauladhar from closest is worth for it.
Trek Start Location: Mcleodganj or Bhagsunag
Trek Length: 5-6 kms
Accommodation: Forest Rest Houses and Camping
Bijli Mahadev Trek
When the valleys of Kullu and Parvati are wrapped white, which would be the best place to witness that view? No doubt, that place would be Bijli Mahadev. Bijli Mahadev is a temple of Lord Shiva on the top of a hill, at a walking distance of 4-5 kms from Chansari village.
Trek Start Location: Chansari village
Trek Length: 4-5 kms
Accommodation: Camping
Chandrashila Trek
Chandrashila trek is one of the best trek in Garhwal region in Uttarakhand. This trek starts from Chopta and takes you through Tungnath where highest Shiva temple is situated. The trail from Chopta to Tungnath is easy. The actual hikes starts beyond the temple. This one Km hike can be very challenging in the winters. The Chandrashila peak offers you great views of Garhwal Himalayas including Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, Nanda devi and Trishul peaks.
Trek Start Location: Chopta
Trek Length: 7 kms
Deoria Tal Trek
Deoria Tal trek is another easy trek which can be done in a day or two in Uttarakhand. The Tal trek trail is only 3 kms from Sari village. During the trek you will come across beautiful fields, ancient temples and few villages. Deoria Tal is a beautiful lake with forests and green land in the surrounding. You will see the breathtaking views of snow covered Himalayan peaks.
Trek Start Location: Sari Village
Trek Length: 3 kms
Serolsar Trek
This 5 kms Serolsar Lake trek in Banjar valley in Kullu District starts from Jalori Pass. This trek is a good option for day hike but can also be considered for overnight stay in camps. The trail passes through thick forests of oak. The lake surrounded by tall trees and snow cover can be a amazing view.
Trek Start Location: Jalori Pass
Trek Length: 5 kms
Accommodation: Camping
Precautions:
Snow and cold weather make winter treks more tougher than other season treks. While going for a winter trek, it is necessary to have some extra precautions.
- Take warm clothes as required according to the coldest temperature.
- Have some good trekking gears, e.g. good shoes to walk on the snow.
- Take enough supply of food with you. You may not get food on the way or on reaching the destination.
- Confirm your accommodation in advance if you are not camping as your own.
- Take a local guide if you are not sure of the path. Sudden weather changes can leave you wandered at some unknown place.
- Make your plan according to the weather forecast.
Happy Winters.. Happy Trekking…
