Nepal has many trekking destinations, such as Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. Trekkers often prefer ideal trekking conditions in Spring and Autumn, but some experienced trekkers also like the winter season. This blog will explain the five best winter treks in Nepal.
Nepal is a country with different geographical features and regions. Similarly, the trekking spots in Nepal also vary based on geography. The winter in Nepal lasts from December to February. Due to intense cold, especially at higher altitudes, the winter season is less ideal for trekking. The temperature at night drops way below the freezing points, and the local teahouses and lodges are closed during that season. Generally, winter treks are not recommended to beginners and less experienced trekkers, but for some veteran trekkers looking for adventure, winter trekking is exciting.
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The lack of rain and the chance to see stunning views of mountains make the winter treks unique. So, let’s look at some of the unique winter treks in Nepal.
5 Best Winter Treks in Nepal
1. Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal regardless of weather, climate and season. Since the altitude of Ghorepani Hill is relatively low, trekking in winter is not affected by high altitude. The Poon Hill trek is about 3-4 days since its trek distance is about 40km. The starting point of the Ghorepani Poon Hill is Nayapul, and the trek ends at Ghandruk. The highest elevation of the trek is Poon Hill ridge at only 3200m. The Poon Hill trek can also be included in other massive treks like Annapurna Circuit trek.
2. Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Base Camp, located at 4,500 meters, is open in winter and offers stunning views during this season. The trekking route is near Pokhara in the Annapurna Region, Nepal’s main tourist area. The trek takes you through forests with oak and rhododendron trees, suspension bridges, and traditional villages. This new and moderate trek route provides spectacular winter views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhare, and Manaslu. Since this route is new, fewer people will be on the trails during winter. This trek is also relatively short, perfect for beginners or those seeking a fantastic winter adventure in Nepal. Additionally, the Mardi Himal trek can be an alternative to the classical Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Get the Mardi Himal Trek package details.
3. Everest Panorama Trek
The Everest Panorama Trek is another fantastic adventure that can go on during the winter season. The Panorama trek is slightly more accessible than the Base Camp Trek, as you don’t have to reach Base Camp. The trek starts at Lukla and ends at Tengboche village, where you will explore Tengboche Monastery. From Tengboche Monastery peak, you will be able to see some of the tallest mountains of the Everest region, like Everest (8848 m), Lhotse (8501 m), Nuptse (7879 m) and Ama Dablam (6856 m). Trekking in winter may cause some challenges, but the experience will be worth it.
This trek is ideal for exploring Himalayan culture and lifestyle. The Tengboche Monastery is one of the world’s most prominent and largest monasteries. It is perched on a hill at the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Imja Khola rivers. The thrilling flight to Lukla, the rich culture of Sherpas, and the bustling Namche Bazaar are a treat for a newcomer to the Everest Region. Also, altitude sickness is not a concern in this panorama trek.
4. Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek is among Nepal’s most famous treks and one of the longest. Many people think trekking EBC in winter is impossible, but some veteran trekkers believe winter is the best season to trek the Everest region. During the winter season, the flow of tourists is relatively low compared to other peak seasons, which means you can find the best accommodation services in the teahouses. The Everest Base Camp Trek takes you closer to the world’s tallest peak, Mount Everest, at 8848m. During the EBC trek, you will reach some of the best places in Nepal, like Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, Tengboche, Lobuche, Gorakhstep, and Kala Patthar.
The Everest Base Camp trek starts with a thrilling flight to Lukla, a unique domestic airstrip in the Himalayan region of Nepal. The trail then leads to Namche Bazaar, a small trading harbor in the early days. The base camp journey allows you to connect with these Himalayan people (Sherpas) who inspire trekkers all over the world.
Another stop is Tengboche, home to the historical significance of the world’s most prominent monasteries. The golden, shining Everest view from Kala Patthar is an off-trail hike to the base camp. Finally, the base camp of the world’s tallest mountain is an unforgettable memory for many people.
Numerous locations throughout the EBC trip from which the majestic Mt. Everest can be witnessed. Also, the Everest region is the most developed and well-run, with a wide variety of cozy tea houses and top-notch lodging and dining options. Trekkers who want to avoid the crowded seasons of autumn and spring should trek during the winter. With the clear scenery of seven of the tallest peaks in the world, the Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most appealing treks in the winter.
5. Langtang Valley Trek
Langtang Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most thrilling short treks, offering an adventure through the Langtang region. The trek begins in the Langtang National Park, where you’ll encounter majestic flora and fauna. The area is renowned for its serene landscapes, yak pastures, cheese factory, and breathtaking views of mountains like Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Langtang Ri, and Yala Peak. Not to mention, Langtang Valley is conveniently close to Kathmandu. One of the trek’s highlights is the Kyanjim Gompa (3,860 m), a unique Buddhist monastery that is a must-see.
Winter in the Langtang region occurs between December and February. During the winter, you can trek through the snow-covered Langtang valley under deep blue skies. Also, the trail is less congested as it is typically the off-season for trekking in this area. Therefore, the Langtang trip in the winter is a preferable choice for individuals looking to explore nature on their own and snap pictures.
Conclusion
Trekking in Nepal is on the bucket list of every trekker worldwide. However, winter trekking in Nepal is not typical. We hope the list of 5 best treks in Nepal has motivated you to explore Nepal’s wilderness in the winter season. It is essential to point out that trekking in winter is recommended to experts rather than Nepal.
There is no doubt that trekking the mountains of Nepal during the winter season is full of challenges. The high altitude, rugged terrain, cold, freezing temperatures, dynamic weather, and fear of natural disasters can be obstacles to planning a winter trek. But there are also some rewards at the end of it. Some rewards are that in the Khumbu region, you’ll find peaceful treks, comfortable teahouses, and stunning views of the snow-covered mountains shining in the sunlight and at sunset.
