1. Hampta Pass Trek
1. Hampta Pass Trek
Hampta Pass is one of Himachal’s most popular winter treks, known for its dramatic landscape changes—from lush Kullu Valley meadows to the cold deserts of Lahaul. The trail offers snow-covered forests, frozen streams, alpine campsites, and stunning views of towering peaks. This trek is perfect for beginners as well as adventure lovers who want a Himalayan winter experience without extreme difficulty. The highlight is crossing the high-altitude pass and camping under a clear, starry sky surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Best Time to Visit:
✔ Mid-December to March – Heavy snow, perfect winter trekking conditions.
Why Visit Hampta Pass Trek?
Hampta Pass offers one of the most dramatic crossover landscapes in Himachal—lush green Kullu Valley on one side and the stark, snow-covered cold desert of Lahaul on the other. Winter adds deep snow, frozen rivers, and breathtaking views. It’s an ideal trek for beginners wanting a snowy Himalayan adventure.
Approx Budget (per person)
○ ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 (ex-Manali)
○ Including stay, meals, permits & guide.
Best Places in Hampta Pass
Chika Campsite
Balu Ka Ghera
Hampta Pass Viewpoint
Snow valleys of Lahaul
Frozen streams & pine forests
2. Prashar Lake Winter Trek
2. Prashar Lake Winter Trek
Prashar Lake is a stunning winter trek famous for its frozen lake, calm surroundings, and panoramic views of the Dhauladhar Range. The trail passes through deep pine forests and snow-covered meadows, ending at the beautiful Prashar Lake with its floating island and ancient temple dedicated to Sage Prashar. The trek is short, easy, and perfect for beginners or weekend travelers looking for a peaceful Himalayan escape. Clear winter nights make stargazing one of the highlights.
Best Time to Visit:
December to February – Lake often freezes, creating the perfect winter scene.
Why Visit Prashar Lake ?
A short and scenic winter trek, perfect for beginners. The highlight is the frozen Prashar Lake, the peaceful monastery, and stunning 360° Himalayan views. Snow-covered trails offer a picture-perfect winter vibe without high difficulty.
Approx Budget (per person)
○₹1,500 – ₹3,000 (ex-Mandi/Baggi Village)
○Budget-friendly trek ideal for quick weekends.
Best Places in Prashar Lake
Prashar Lake
Ancient Prashar Rishi Temple
Snow forests
Panoramic Dhauladhar Range
3. Kheerganga Trek
3. Kheerganga Trek
Kheerganga is famous for its magical views, snow trails, and the natural hot spring at the top—a dream come true in freezing weather. The trek takes you through dense forests, charming villages, and snowy mountain paths before reaching the hot water kund where trekkers relax and enjoy breathtaking views. Winter gives Kheerganga a quiet, less-crowded, and truly mystical vibe, making it ideal for beginners, solo travelers, and backpackers.
Best Time to Visit:
✔ December to March – Snowy trails and perfect winter charm.
Why Visit Kheerganga Trek?
Kheerganga is famous for its natural hot water spring at the top, which feels magical in the freezing winter cold. The trail passes through snow-laden forests, wooden bridges, and peaceful Himalayan villages. Perfect for backpackers and easy trekkers.
Approx Budget (per person)
○ ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 (ex-Barshaini/Kasol)
Best Places in Kheerganga Trek
Kheerganga Hot Spring (Parvati Kund)
Snow forests of Kasol–Barshaini route
Waterfalls & wooden bridges
Beautiful valley views
4. Kareri Lake Trek
4. Kareri Lake Trek
Kareri Lake is a beautiful alpine glacial lake surrounded by tall pine forests, rocky terrain, and soaring snowy peaks. In winter, the lake often freezes, creating a stunning white landscape that looks like a Himalayan dream. The trek passes through remote mountain villages and offers peaceful views and offbeat experiences. Adventure trekkers and photographers especially love this trek for its raw beauty, natural trails, and quiet surroundings.
Best Time to Visit:
✔ January to March – Heavy snow and a frozen lake make this the best season.
Why Visit Kareri Lake?
Kareri Lake turns into a stunning frozen alpine lake during winter. The trek offers peaceful forests, charming Gaddi villages, and snow-covered meadows—perfect for people wanting a raw, offbeat experience away from crowded trails.
Approx Budget (per person)
○ ₹2,500 – ₹5,000 (ex-Dharamshala/Kareri Village)
Best Places in Kareri Lake
Frozen Kareri Lake
Kareri Village
Pine & oak forest trails
Snow valleys near the lake
5. Pin Parvati Winter Trek
Pin Parvati is one of the most challenging winter treks in Himachal—perfect for experienced trekkers looking for a high-altitude adventure. The trail crosses Pin Parvati Pass, connecting the lush Parvati Valley in Kullu with the cold desert landscapes of Spiti. The route offers glaciers, deep snow, massive peaks, frozen rivers, and untouched nature. Winter makes the trek harder but also far more dramatic and rewarding for those who want a true Himalayan expedition experience.
Best Time to Visit:
✔ July to September for classic trek
✔ December to March only for highly experienced trekkers with proper gear.
Why Visit Pin Parvati?
One of India’s toughest winter treks. Experience dramatic shifts from green forests to glaciers, deep snow, and the cold desert of Spiti. A true Himalayan expedition for people seeking high-altitude adventure and raw wilderness.
Approx Budget (per person)
○ ₹35,000 – ₹45,000 (Complete guided expedition)
Due to high altitude, gear, and professional support.
Best Places in Pin Parveti
Parvati Valley
Odi Thach Meadows
Mantalai Lake
Massive glaciers
Pin Valley, Spiti