Winter is one of the most magical times to step into the mountains, where the landscapes transform into serene white carpets and pine forests echo with stillness. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker seeking challenging snow trails or someone craving a peaceful weekend in nature, the Himalayas near Delhi offer a perfect escape during the colder months.
These eight winter treks blend scenic beauty, adventure, and refreshing tranquility. They are ideal for travellers craving dramatic views and unforgettable mountain moments.
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1. Nag Tibba, Uttarakhand
Nag Tibba, often called the ‘Mountain of the Serpent God’, is one of the most accessible and rewarding winter treks for travellers coming from Delhi. Sitting at an altitude of over 3,000 metres, the summit offers breathtaking panoramas of Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and Kedarkantha ranges dusted with snow. The trail passes through peaceful deodar and oak forests, making it a perfect blend of adventure and calm. During the winter season, Nag Tibba becomes a snowy wonderland with manageable paths that are suitable for beginners. The base village, Pantwari, is easily reachable, making it ideal for weekend trekkers. The final ascent provides a gentle challenge, but the 180-degree Himalayan views make the effort completely worthwhile.
2. Churdhar Trek, Himachal Pradesh
Churdhar, standing at over 3,600 metres, is one of the tallest peaks outside the main Himalayan ranges. It's a thrilling winter trek for experienced hikers. The route becomes adventurous during colder months as the trail is often blanketed in heavy snow, adding to its difficulty and charm. The trek takes you through deep forests, wide meadows, and sharp ridges that open into jaw-dropping Himalayan views. The summit houses a temple of Lord Shiva and offers a sweeping 360-degree panorama stretching from Kedarnath to Badrinath and even the Gangetic plains.
3. Chakrata, Uttarakhand
Chakrata is one of Uttarakhand’s most underrated winter trekking zones, offering pristine landscapes untouched by heavy tourism. Surrounded by dense coniferous forests and rolling meadows, Chakrata’s trekking routes promise a calm and scenic winter escape. The area receives light to moderate snowfall, painting the entire region in soothing white, perfect for solitude seekers. Popular trails such as Tiger Falls, Deoban Forest, and Budher Caves offer varied terrains ranging from wide meadows to steep limestone formations. Birdwatchers especially love Chakrata, as the region becomes a natural habitat for Himalayan species during winter. With its refreshing tranquillity, low crowd levels, and picture-perfect viewpoints overlooking snow-clad valleys, Chakrata is a rewarding winter trekking getaway.
4. Karol Tibba, Himachal Pradesh
Karol Tibba, perched above Solan in Himachal Pradesh, offers a winter trek that blends mythology, dense forests, and panoramic hill views. The trail to the summit passes through thick pine and oak plantations, and in winter, the route is lightly sprinkled with snow. It's an ideal trek for those who njoy peaceful trails without harsh conditions. The highlight of this trek is the ancient Karol Cave, believed to be linked to the Pandavas during their exile. The steady uphill walk rewards trekkers with sweeping vistas of the Shivalik ranges and the charming Solan valley below. Winter adds an extra layer of beauty, as mist rolls into the forests and the cold mountain air enhances the trekking spirit.
5. Benog Tibba, Uttarakhand
Benog Tibba is an ideal winter trek for travellers looking to soak in quiet forest trails around Mussoorie. Part of the Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, this trek is rich in biodiversity and offers majestic views of Chaukhamba, Bandarpunch, and Kedarnath peaks on clear winter days. The trail meanders through lush cedar and pine forests that look exceptionally beautiful with a touch of winter frost. Along the way, trekkers often spot mountain birds, making it a favourite route for nature lovers and photographers. The summit opens into a vast clearing where the Himalayan skyline appears crisp and dramatic during winter.
6. Shali Tibba, Himachal Pradesh
Shali Tibba near Mashobra is known for its striking 360-degree Himalayan views, making it one of the most rewarding winter treks in Himachal Pradesh. The trail winds through apple orchards, cedar forests, and open ridges that look breathtaking under the winter sun. At the summit, a small temple stands against a vast open sky, offering unmatched vistas of the Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar, and Shivalik ranges. Winter enhances the trek’s beauty, expect crisp air, snow-dusted paths, and peaceful landscapes with very few crowds. The moderate difficulty level makes Shali Tibba perfect for trekkers who want a balance of challenge and comfort.
7. Trishul Masiff, Uttarakhand
Trishul Massif stands as one of the most breathtaking winter trekking destinations for travellers seeking a deeper connection with the high Himalayas. Located in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region, this iconic trio of peaks, Trishul I, II, and III, creates a dramatic skyline that instantly captivates trekkers. As December and January set in, the region transforms into a vast white canvas, making the journey even more magical. The route also takes you through charming villages where traditional stone houses, terraced fields, and warm local hospitality give you a glimpse into mountain life. For those looking to venture beyond the usual winter trails near Delhi, the Trishul Massif trek is a rewarding adventure that promises dramatic views and quiet Himalayan solitude.
8. Bhubhu Pass, Himachal Pradesh
Bhubhu Pass, an old shepherd route connecting Kullu and Mandi, offers a winter trekking experience filled with wilderness, cultural elements, and historic charm. This high-altitude trek runs through rugged forests, rocky terrain, and snow-covered stretches during winter, giving trekkers a raw and authentic Himalayan adventure. Local legends and stories from shepherd settlements add a unique touch to the journey. Reaching the pass gives you a stunning view of distant white peaks and deep valleys that look mesmerising under winter skies.