Winter trekking in Himachal Pradesh is no longer limited to seasoned mountaineers. Several low-altitude Himalayan trails remain accessible, safe, and rewarding even during peak winter months, making them suitable for beginners with basic preparation.
Snow-covered forests, frozen alpine lakes, and gentle ascents allow first-timers to experience the Himalayas in winter without technical challenges. This article lists the best winter treks in Himachal Pradesh for beginners 2026, keeping planning, safety, fitness, and accessibility firmly in focus.
Beginner-Friendly Winter Treks To Try In Himachal Pradesh
1. Triund Snow Trek, McLeod Ganj
Best for: First-time snow trekking experience
Altitude: ~2,850 m
Duration: 1–2 days
Base: McLeod Ganj
The Triund snow trek from McLeod Ganj is widely recognised as the safest and easiest winter trek in Himachal. During peak winter months, snowfall usually starts near the final stretch, giving beginners their first experience of trekking on snow without steep climbs or technical sections.
Why it’s beginner-friendly
- Short distance and gradual ascent
- Clearly marked trail
- Regular winter footfall and local support
Route & access
- McLeod Ganj → Dharamkot → Triund
- Easily accessible as part of a Delhi to McLeod Ganj winter weekend itinerary
Weather & difficulty
- Day temperatures: 5°C to 10°C
- Night temperatures: –5°C to –8°C
- Non-technical snow walking
Planning tips
- Start early to avoid icy sections
- Trekking poles and microspikes recommended
- Camping in snow at Triund top only in stable weather
2. Prashar Lake Winter Trek, Near Mandi
Best for: Frozen lake views and winter photography
Altitude: ~2,730 m
Duration: 2 days
Base: Mandi
The Prashar Lake winter trek guide for beginners is ideal for those looking for a peaceful snow trek with dramatic scenery. In January, the lake often freezes, creating one of the most photogenic winter landscapes in Himachal.
Why it’s beginner-friendly
- Moderate altitude with gradual climb
- Short trekking distance
- Well-defined village access points
Route & access
- Mandi → Baggi village → Prashar Lake
- This is the safest route for beginners
- Addresses how to reach Prashar Lake from Mandi in winter
Weather & difficulty
- Day temperatures: 0°C to 5°C
- Night temperatures: –5°C to –10°C
- Snow depth varies yearly
- Is Prashar Lake frozen in January? Often yes, but unsafe to walk on
Planning tips
- Carry traction support
- Avoid stepping close to the ice edge
- Prashar Lake frozen lake photography tips: shoot early morning, carry spare batteries
3. Kheerganga Winter Trek, Parvati Valley
Best for: Hot springs combined with snow trekking
Altitude: ~2,960 m
Duration: 2 days
Base: Kasol / Barshaini
Kheerganga is among the most popular hot spring treks in Himachal winter. While snow covers the upper sections during January, the trail remains clearly marked and manageable for beginners.
Why it’s beginner-friendly
- Well-marked and frequently used trail
- Reliable food and accommodation
- No technical sections
Route & access
- Kasol → Barshaini → Rudra Nag → Kheerganga
- One of the best beginner treks in Parvati Valley during January
Weather & difficulty
- Day temperatures: 5°C to 10°C
- Night temperatures: –5°C to –7°C
- Snow usually begins after Rudra Nag
Planning tips
- Start early to avoid descending in the dark
- Is Kheerganga safe for solo female trekkers in winter? Yes, with basic precautions
- Use established guesthouses only
4. Hampta Pass (Winter Lower Trail), Manali
Best for: Snow trekking near Manali (not full pass crossing)
Altitude: ~3,000 m (winter-safe sections)
Duration: Day hike or overnight
Base: Manali
Many ask, can beginners do the Hampta Pass trek in winter? The full Hampta Pass crossing is not suitable. However, guided treks along the lower Hampta valley offer excellent easy snow treks in Manali for first-timers.
Why it’s beginner-friendly
- Wide valley trail
- Gradual ascent till Chika
- Managed as guided winter hikes
Route & access
- Manali → Jobra → Chika
- Commonly combined with snow hikes near Solang
Weather & difficulty
- Temperature at Hampta Pass in January 2026:
- Lower trail: –5°C to –10°C
- Upper pass: –15°C or lower (unsafe)
- Answers: Can beginners do the Hampta Pass trek in winter? — only lower sections
Planning tips
- Always trek with a guide
- Renting snow gear in Manali for Beas Kund / Hampta region is easily available
- Avoid independent winter navigation
5. Dharamkot to Guna Devi Snow Walk, Dharamshala
Best for: Absolute beginners and short winter hikes
Altitude: ~2,300 m
Duration: Half day
Base: Dharamshala / McLeod Ganj
This route is among the safest short winter treks in Dharamshala 2026. Light snowfall, forest cover, and easy exit points make it ideal for beginners who want a snow experience without committing to overnight trekking.
Why it’s beginner-friendly
- Minimal altitude gain
- Multiple exit points
- Forest-covered trail reduces wind exposure
Route & access
- Dharamkot → Guna Devi Temple → return
- Easily accessible from McLeod Ganj
Weather & difficulty
- Light snowfall only
- Temperatures rarely fall below –2°C
- Very low risk trail
Planning tips
- Ideal for day hikes
- No camping required
- Suitable for first-time winter walkers
Summing Up
Winter trekking in Himachal Pradesh is highly accessible for beginners when routes are chosen wisely. Treks like Triund, Prashar Lake, Kheerganga, and lower Hampta Valley trails offer snow experiences without technical difficulty.
With proper gear, realistic planning, and attention to weather conditions, beginners can safely enjoy Himalayan winter treks in 2026.
