Want to go for a winter trek this season, but still confused about which one to choose?
It happens to almost every beginner who searches for Winter Treks in India, watches a dozen videos, reads lists, and still feels stuck. “Is it too hard?” “Will there be snow?” “Is it safe?” These are normal questions, and choosing the right trek makes all the difference.
Many beginners search for Winter Treks in India, but often get confused about which one actually suits them
That’s why this guide highlights the 7 best winter treks for beginners: easy climbs, beautiful snow views, and routes that feel exciting, not intimidating.
1. Brahmatal – For Jaw-Dropping Mountain Views
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Duration: 5-6 days
Some treks make you feel connected to the mountains almost instantly. Brahmatal is one of them.
And the moment the trail opens up and you see Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti glowing against the winter sky, you’ll feel that this is what a real Himalayan trek should look like. And when you finally reach the frozen Brahmatal Lake, it almost feels unreal, like you’ve stepped straight into a winter postcard.
What makes this even better is how beginner friendly the trail is. The climbs are steady, not exhausting, so you get to enjoy the snow, the views, and the whole journey without feeling overwhelmed. If you’ve always wanted a winter trek that feels grand but is still doable, this one fits perfectly, especially if you’re trying trekking in December for the first time.
This route is especially perfect for trekking in December because the snow conditions are ideal.
Why beginners love it:
- Some of the most stunning mountain views on any winter trek
- Heavy snow that makes trekking in December feel magical
- Scenic campsites that look even more beautiful in winter
2. Kedarkantha – The Classic Beginner-Friendly Winter Summit
Kedarkantha is one of those winter treks that instantly wins over first time trekkers. Tall pine forests, soft snow, and a steady trail make every day feel smooth and enjoyable. And the sunrise from the summit golden light falling over the Himalayas, is the moment that stays with you long after the trek ends. It’s one of the best treks in India in winter if you prefer simplicity with stunning views.
If you’re someone who loves mixing adventure with a bit of spirituality, you can even extend your trip with a visit to Badrinath using the Spiritual Sojourn Kedarnath & Badrinath Do Dham Yatra (7N/8D) package. It lets you enjoy the snow trek and experience the sacred Do Dham journey in one smooth plan, ideal for travellers who want both adventure and peace.
And the best part?
You get this package at an affordable price on Towno, and you don’t have to worry about any of the planning. Towno takes care of your complete Uttarakhand journey, including comfortable hotels in Haridwar, Sitapur, Badrinath, and Pipalkoti, daily breakfast and dinner, private cab transfers, sightseeing, and all ground arrangements. The entire plan is already structured day by day, so you don’t have to think about transport, permits, routes, or stay logistics even once.
This means once you finish the Kedarkantha trek, you can smoothly continue your spiritual Do Dham journey without any last minute coordination or travel stress.
Why beginners love it:
- Safe and beginner-friendly
- Big summit view with minimal difficulty
- Plenty of snow in December
3. Dayara Bugyal – Meadows that Turn into White Wonderlands
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 4-5 days
Beautiful white meadows, open skies, and pure calmness without any tough climb, if this is the kind of winter experience you’re looking for, Dayara Bugyal fits perfectly.
The moment you step onto the trail, you feel how gentle it is. No steep sections, no tricky paths, just wide, snow covered fields stretching endlessly around you. It’s one of those winter treks in Uttarakhand where you can walk slowly, enjoy every moment, and still feel rewarded with stunning views.
What makes it even better is how it gives maximum beauty with minimum effort. Whether you’re trekking solo, with friends, or taking your family on their first winter adventure, Dayara Bugyal keeps things simple, scenic, and safe. It’s also one of the best treks in India for beginners who love photography. The sunrise over the snow white meadows is unforgettable.
Why beginners love it:
- Extremely beginner-friendly
- Huge snow covered meadows are perfect for photography
- Ideal for slow, peaceful trekking in December
4. Ali Bedni Bugyal – A Calm Winter Trek With Stunning Mountain Views
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Duration: 6 Days
There’s something special about Ali Bedni Bugyal, the kind of beauty that quietly surprises you the moment you step onto the trail. The route takes you through peaceful forests, wide open meadows, and long ridges that look even more magical when winter snow settles over them. Nothing feels rushed or crowded here; it’s a slow, calm winter journey that beginners genuinely enjoy.
And then comes the highlight, the view of Mt. Trishul rising sharply above the snowy landscape. From Bedni Bugyal, the mountain looks incredibly close, clear, and almost unreal… a moment most trekkers remember for years.
This is one of the best winter treks in India for beginners who want scenic views, gentle trails, and a quiet experience away from the popular rush.
Why beginners love it:
- Peaceful, less crowded winter trail
- Beautiful forest walks with easy slopes
- Wide meadows covered in fresh winter snow
- Perfect for slow trekking and photography
5. Kuari Pass – Wide Himalayan Views on a Comfortably Easy Trail
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Duration: 5-6 days
Ever imagined standing at one spot and seeing several great Himalayan peaks all at once, Mt. Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Kamet, and more, lined up in front of you like a giant natural painting?
That’s the kind of experience Kuari Pass gives, and it’s exactly why beginners find this trek unforgettable.
The trail is smooth, safe, and filled with variety: oak forests lightly covered in snow, open meadows glowing in winter light, and a summit ridge so wide that even first timers feel confident walking on it. Everything about Kuari Pass feels welcoming. The climb isn’t too hard, the views are huge, and the winter atmosphere keeps the whole journey exciting.
For anyone searching for winter treks in Uttarakhand that are scenic yet simple, Kuari Pass stands out as one of the best choices.
Why beginners love it:
- Ideal for first time trekkers who want big rewards
- Clear panoramic views of iconic Himalayan peaks
- Snowy forests and open meadows are perfect for slow, relaxed trekking
- Comfortable and safe trail even in winter
6. Sandakphu – Phalut – The Only Trek Showing 4 of the World’s Tallest Peaks
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 6-7 days
If you want a winter trek that’s different from Uttarakhand and Himachal, Sandakphu will amaze you. This trail sits on the India Nepal border, giving you the “international trek” experience without leaving the country.
It’s also a great choice for travellers trying trekking in December without facing very harsh winter conditions.
In clear winter skies, you can see the Sleeping Buddha formation along with Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga all in one sweeping view.
Why beginners love it:
- Tea house experience (comfortable stays)
- Views of four 8000-meter peaks
- Snow in December, but not harsh
7. Chadar Trek – For Beginners Who Want Extreme Adventure
Difficulty: Moderate–Difficult (Beginners can do it with preparation)
Duration: 7-9 days
This one is for beginners who want something unforgettable. The Chadar Trek isn’t physically technical, but it requires mental strength. You walk on the frozen Zanskar River, surrounded by towering cliffs and icy silence.
Trekking on a sheet of ice (“chadar”) is unlike any other winter experience in India.
Why beginners love it:
- Unique frozen river experience
- Beautiful ice formations & caves
- A once in a lifetime winter trek in India
Conclusion
Winter trekking doesn’t need to feel extreme or overwhelming. These 7 best winter treks in India offer the ideal mix of beauty, safety, and simple beginner-friendly routes. Whether you dream of snowy meadows, wide mountain views, quiet forests, or even frozen rivers, there’s a winter trail perfectly waiting for you.
If you’re planning trekking in December or early January, this is the best time. With a little preparation and the right warm layers, your first winter trek can easily become one of the most refreshing and memorable experiences of your life.
So pack your bag, lace up your shoes, and let the mountains show you winter in its most magical form.