Uttarakhand: The Winter Trekking Hub
Uttarakhand remains the heartland for accessible winter treks in India, with most popular trails open for the 2026-27 season. The key is preparation and understanding that conditions can change rapidly. Most routes like Kedarkantha, Brahmatal, and Dayara
Bugyal are operational from December through March. However, the state has been working on a new trekking framework in 2026, which may require mandatory registration for operators and certified guides. Trekkers should confirm these rules with their chosen operator, carry proper photo ID, and be prepared for cold nights where temperatures at high camps can drop to between -5°C and -10°C.
Kedarkantha: The Classic Snow Summit
A favourite for beginners, the Kedarkantha trek is fully operational for the winter season, with batches starting from late November 2026. Since the trail lies within Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, a forest entry permit is mandatory. Most registered operators arrange this for you at the Sankri base camp, but you must carry a valid government photo ID. The trail offers a quintessential snow trek experience, leading to a 12,500 ft summit with panoramic views. While rated easy to moderate, trekkers should be prepared for camping in sub-zero temperatures and possible snowfall on the trail.
Brahmatal & Dayara Bugyal: Meadows in White
Both Brahmatal and Dayara Bugyal are excellent choices for those seeking vast, snow-covered meadows. Batches for Brahmatal are running, with late November seeing the first snows and the lakes beginning to freeze. While it offers stunning views of Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, the nights get very cold, dropping to -8°C at the base camp even in early winter. Dayara Bugyal, known for its gentle slopes, is also a great option for families and beginners and is currently open to trekkers. Trekkers on both routes should carry adequate waterproof and insulated layers as conditions can be cold and drizzly even in November.
Himachal Pradesh: A Quieter Winter
Winter trekking options in Himachal are more limited compared to Uttarakhand, as heavy snow closes many high passes like Hampta and Bhrigu Lake from December onwards. Lower-altitude treks like Triund and Prashar Lake are generally accessible through December. However, local rules can change quickly. For example, authorities in Churdhar have previously banned travel from December 1st due to safety concerns. It's essential to check local district orders and road status, especially for routes like Jalori Pass, before making plans. For the 2026-27 season, November is the most reliable month for most shorter treks, before the heaviest snows arrive.
Ladakh's Chadar Trek: The Frozen River
The legendary Chadar Trek, a walk on the frozen Zanskar River, is a highly regulated and challenging expedition. The season is short, typically running only from mid-January to late February 2027, and is subject to the river freezing to a safe thickness. As of November 2026, operators are accepting inquiries, but official dates are not yet announced by the Ladakh administration. This trek is not for the unprepared; it involves mandatory medical checks in Leh, several days of acclimatisation, and walking in temperatures that can drop to -25°C. Trekkers must book through a registered operator who will handle the permits and clearance.
