Winter Treks in the Himalayas, India and Nepal: Seven Snow-Covered Trails Offering Scenic Grandeur and Memorable Travel Experiences

During the winter months, the Himalayan region across India and Nepal is transformed into a serene landscape shaped by snow, silence, and dramatic mountain light. Forest paths are softened under fresh snowfall, alpine lakes freeze into glassy mirrors, and distant peaks glow under crisp winter skies. This season has long been regarded as a rewarding period for trekking, as trails become quieter and scenery appears at its most pristine. For travellers seeking meaningful outdoor journeys, winter treks in the Himalayas are often chosen for their balance of challenge, beauty, and introspection. Routes ranging from gentle weekend trails to demanding high-altitude expeditions are made accessible during this period, allowing both beginners and experienced trekkers to find suitable experiences. Snow trekking in India offers a distinct travel dimension, combining adventure tourism with cultural encounters in remote mountain villages. With proper preparation, winter trails are safely undertaken and are remembered for their crisp mornings, panoramic views, and immersive natural surroundings. The following selection of Himalayan treks highlights routes that are widely regarded for their snowfall, scenic value, and contribution to sustainable mountain tourism across the Indian subcontinent.

Kedarkantha Trek, Uttarakhand, India

Overview and Trail Experience

The Kedarkantha Trek in Uttarakhand, India, has been widely recognized as one of the most approachable winter trekking routes in the Himalayas. The trail is accessed via Sankri village and is gradually guided through pine forests, open clearings, and frozen water bodies such as Juda Ka Talab. Snow coverage is consistently experienced between December and April, making it a preferred winter destination.

Scenic Highlights and Travel Appeal

A summit altitude of 12,500 ft is reached after steady ascents, where sweeping views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak are revealed. Sunrise from the summit is especially valued within trekking tourism, as light spreads across snow-laden ridges.

Why the Trek Is Valued

This route is often selected for first-time winter trekkers due to its manageable gradients, well-marked paths, and rewarding summit views. The experience is considered an ideal introduction to Himalayan winter travel in India.

Brahmatal Trek, Uttarakhand, India

Overview and Trail Experience

The Brahmatal Trek is set in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, and is distinguished by its frozen alpine lake. Beginning from Lohajung, the route winds through oak and rhododendron forests that are fully snow-covered during peak winter months.

Scenic Highlights and Travel Appeal

At an altitude of 12,250 ft, uninterrupted views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti are presented. The frozen Brahmatal Lake remains the focal point of the journey and is often photographed for its tranquil winter setting.

Why the Trek Is Valued

This trek is appreciated for offering expansive Himalayan views without excessive crowds. Its mythological association with Lord Brahma adds cultural interest to the travel experience.

Dayara Bugyal Trek, Uttarakhand, India

Overview and Trail Experience

The Dayara Bugyal Trek is frequently chosen for short winter itineraries. Accessed from Natin village, the trail is characterized by gentle slopes and steady ascents, making it suitable for a wide range of travellers.

Scenic Highlights and Travel Appeal

At 12,300 ft, Dayara Bugyal opens into vast alpine meadows that are completely covered in snow during winter. Peaks such as Bandarpoonch and Gangotri dominate the skyline, enhancing the sense of openness.

Why the Trek Is Valued

The wide snowfields are favored for photography and beginner-level winter activities. The trek is often recommended as an accessible introduction to alpine meadows in India.

Sandakphu Phalut Trek, West Bengal, India and Nepal

Overview and Trail Experience

The Sandakphu Phalut Trek follows a historic route along the India–Nepal border. The trail is known for its gradual climbs and its integration of local village stays, which contribute to community-based tourism.

Scenic Highlights and Travel Appeal

At 11,930 ft, views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga are presented, making this trek unique in the Eastern Himalayas. The Sleeping Buddha formation of the Kanchenjunga range is particularly admired at sunrise.

Why the Trek Is Valued

The combination of snow trails, cultural encounters, and teahouse accommodations makes this route appealing for winter travellers seeking comfort alongside scenic diversity.

Nag Tibba Trek, Uttarakhand, India

Overview and Trail Experience

The Nag Tibba Trek is located close to Dehradun and is often selected for short winter getaways. With an altitude of 9,915 ft, the trek is completed within two to three days.

Scenic Highlights and Travel Appeal

Snow-covered oak forests and open summit views of Bandarpoonch, Kedarnath, and Srikanth ranges are encountered. The proximity to urban centers has contributed to its popularity among weekend travellers.

Why the Trek Is Valued

This trek is regarded as suitable for families, beginners, and small groups. It offers a compact winter travel experience without extended logistical planning.

Kuari Pass Trek, Uttarakhand, India

Overview and Trail Experience

The Kuari Pass Trek, also known as the Curzon Trail, holds historical significance and scenic appeal. Forested paths transition into open ridgelines as the route progresses toward higher elevations.

Scenic Highlights and Travel Appeal

At 12,516 ft, views of Nanda Devi dominate the landscape. Snow-covered Gorson Bugyal provides a dramatic camping environment and is considered one of the visual highlights of the trek.

Why the Trek Is Valued

This trail is valued for combining forest walks, alpine meadows, and panoramic ridges within a single itinerary, offering a comprehensive Himalayan travel experience.

Chadar Trek, Ladakh, India

Overview and Trail Experience

The Chadar Trek in Ladakh, India, is regarded as the most demanding winter trek in the country. Conducted between mid-January and February, the route follows the frozen Zanskar River.

Scenic Highlights and Travel Appeal

At an altitude of approximately 11,000 ft, trekkers walk directly on ice, surrounded by towering rock walls and frozen waterfalls. Temperatures can fall below minus 20 degrees Celsius, creating extreme conditions.

Why the Trek Is Valued

This trek is internationally recognized for its rarity and intensity. It provides insight into winter life in Ladakh and is recommended only for well-prepared and experienced trekkers.

Frequently Considered Travel Questions

Suitable Treks for Beginners

Kedarkantha, Dayara Bugyal, and Nag Tibba are commonly identified as beginner-friendly winter treks in India.

Essential Packing Considerations

Layered clothing, microspikes, trekking poles, sunglasses, waterproof gloves, and high-energy food items are generally advised.

Solo Travel Considerations

Short routes may be undertaken solo with caution, while higher-altitude treks are considered safer with organized groups or certified operators.

Ideal Winter Trekking Season

December to March is widely regarded as the most suitable period, with peak snowfall typically occurring between January and February.

Winter trekking across the Himalayas of India and Nepal continues to attract travellers seeking immersive natural experiences and seasonal adventure tourism. These trails are remembered not only for snow and mountain views but also for the calm, perspective, and cultural depth they offer. When approached with preparation and respect for mountain environments, winter treks provide lasting value within responsible travel journeys.

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Nepal to Allow Indian Currency Notes Above INR Hundred, Easing Cross-Border Travel for Tourists

Nepal plans to allow circulation of Indian currency notes above ₹100 for the first time in nearly a decade, aiming to boost cross-border trade and tourism. Nepal’s central bank, the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), has announced a policy shift that is expected to significantly ease the financial challenges faced by Nepali migrant workers, Indian tourists, students, pilgrims, and medical visitors travelling between Nepal and India. The policy change is also likely to have an impact on the tourism and hospitality industries, which have been advocating for such an amendment for several years.

This change follows a revision to India’s Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Currency) Regulations by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in late November 2025. The adjustment allows individuals to transport Indian currency notes up to ₹100 and above, with a limit of ₹25,000 in either direction. Both countries have welcomed the move, which addresses long-standing issues for travellers and tourism businesses.

Understanding Nepal’s Currency Restrictions

For nearly a decade, Nepal has maintained a strict policy on high-denomination Indian currency. Following India’s 2016 demonetisation, which withdrew ₹500 and ₹1,000 notes from circulation, Nepal banned the circulation of Indian currency notes above ₹100. This policy was intended to curb the smuggling of counterfeit currency and to control the inflow of high-value notes, which were believed to pose a security threat to the Himalayan nation.

Prior to 2015, Nepali citizens were allowed to carry up to ₹500 and ₹1,000 denomination notes into Nepal, up to a total of ₹25,000. However, following demonetisation, Nepal imposed tighter restrictions, allowing only ₹100 notes for cross-border travel. Indian tourists and other travelers, particularly those heading to Nepal for business or leisure, were often forced to deal with currency issues, leading to confusion and, at times, even legal complications.

This restriction has affected a range of sectors within Nepal’s economy, including tourism, casinos, and hospitality services catering to Indian visitors. Many travelers were unknowingly caught violating currency regulations, leading to arrests and fines. As a result, businesses dependent on Indian tourists have been at the forefront of lobbying for changes in the currency policy.

The Impact of India’s RBI Amendment

The recent amendment by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is expected to greatly benefit the tourism industry in Nepal. Under the new rules, Indian citizens can carry ₹100 denomination notes without any restrictions and can also transport higher denomination notes—up to ₹25,000—into Nepal, as long as they do so in both directions. This change offers a significant boost to Indian tourists, as it will reduce the need to exchange money or rely on local currencies during their stay in Nepal.

The new currency rules align with broader goals of fostering tourism and business exchange between the two nations and are seen as an important step in facilitating smoother cross-border travel. Additionally, the adjustment will likely benefit Nepali workers who send remittances from India. These workers, particularly those involved in seasonal or migrant labour, often face challenges when transferring money back home due to the existing currency restrictions.

Nepal’s Central Bank Prepares for Implementation

The Nepal Rastra Bank has been working closely with financial institutions and government agencies to ensure that the new currency regulations are implemented smoothly. The central bank has indicated that it is in the final stages of preparing the formal announcement, with plans to publish a notice in the Nepal Gazette soon. Once the regulations are finalized, the NRB will issue circulars to banks and financial institutions, officially enabling the circulation of Indian currency notes above ₹100 across the country.

This long-awaited change is expected to positively affect various sectors within Nepal. Notably, the tourism and hospitality industries, which have long struggled with foreign currency exchange issues, stand to benefit the most. While urban areas, especially Kathmandu, have seen improvements in payment systems through mobile applications and QR codes, the system remains unreliable in remote areas of Nepal. In these regions, high-denomination Indian notes will provide a much-needed alternative for travelers.

Challenges in Nepal’s Tourism Industry and Currency Systems

Despite the progress made with mobile payment systems, challenges remain, particularly in rural areas. Many parts of Nepal, especially in remote mountain regions, lack reliable internet connectivity, and travelers continue to face difficulties with mobile payment methods. The introduction of Indian currency notes above ₹100 is expected to fill this gap, allowing for easier transactions in areas that still rely on physical cash.

Moreover, this change will likely encourage more Indian tourists to visit Nepal, especially as it aligns with their financial habits. As of recent years, India remains the largest source of tourists to Nepal. With growing interest from Indian travelers, Nepal’s economy stands to gain from an increase in tourism-related activities, particularly in the casino, hospitality, and pilgrimage sectors.

Nepal’s Broader Economic Strategy and Future Outlook

Nepal’s economic strategy has been focused on enhancing trade, tourism, and cross-border cooperation with India. The easing of currency restrictions marks a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two nations. Nepal’s government aims to attract more Indian tourists, especially in niche markets such as pilgrimage tourism, adventure tourism, and medical tourism. The increased flow of Indian currency is expected to boost local economies in areas dependent on tourism, creating new business opportunities and helping to revive sectors that have struggled in recent years.

Furthermore, as Nepal looks to position itself as a key destination for international tourists, these changes in currency policy could play a critical role in its economic recovery. The tourism sector, in particular, could see an uptick in arrivals, bolstered by the ease of currency exchange and more seamless financial transactions for visitors.

A Step Toward Stronger Nepal-India Relations

Nepal’s decision to allow the circulation of Indian currency notes above ₹100 is a significant step towards cross-border cooperation between the two countries. The change, which is expected to be announced soon, will make it easier for Indian tourists, Nepali migrant workers, and others travelling between the two countries to deal with currency issues. Tourism continues to play an important role in Nepal’s economy, and this policy shift is expected to improve the travel experience and open up new opportunities for businesses in both countries.

This development is part of a larger trend of strengthening bilateral ties, with both countries focusing on improving economic cooperation and facilitating smoother travel across their shared border. With the implementation of these currency changes, Nepal will be able to strengthen its position as a top destination for Indian tourists while also promoting long-term growth and improving financial systems.

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