Winter treks in Nepal offers a unique experience. Many people assume the Himalayas are closed from December to February. This is not true. High passes over 5,000 meters are often blocked by snow. Many lower-altitude treks, however, are open. They offer their own special rewards.
The winter season brings clear, stable weather. The air is crisp and free of the dust or haze that affects other seasons. This means the mountain views are often the sharpest and most reliable of the year. The trails are also quiet. You will not see the large crowds of autumn or spring. You get to experience the peacefulness of the Himalayas.
Choosing the right trek is important for a winter trip. These treks provide stunning scenery. They also offer a deep look into the local culture. Glacier Safari Treks provides expert guides for these routes. A guide is essential for safety and navigation in winter.
Here are 15 top Upcoming Winter Treks in Nepal 2026 , all available through Glacier Safari Treks.
1. Kathmandu Valley Tour
- Difficulty: Easy
- Region: Kathmandu Valley
- Price: €1043
- Duration: 9 days
For those who want to experience the Himalayas without the physical demands of a high-altitude trek, the Kathmandu Valley Tour is the perfect choice for winter. The days are sunny and pleasant, with temperatures perfect for walking.
This tour combines cultural immersion with gentle hiking. You will explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Boudhanath Stupa and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. The journey takes you to hill stations like Nagarkot and Dhulikhel, famous for their panoramic sunrise views over the Langtang and Everest ranges. You walk through terraced fields and traditional Newari villages, getting a deep look into the history and lifestyle of the valley.
This tour is suitable for all ages. You do not need specialized trekking gear, just comfortable walking shoes. It is available throughout the winter and offers the most comfortable accommodation options.
2. Upper Mustang Trek
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Region: Mustang
- Price: From €1197
- Duration: 13 days
Upper Mustang is a unique “rain shadow” area. This means it receives very little precipitation, making it a viable option even when other regions are snowy. While winter temperatures drop significantly, the days are often dry and clear.
This trek takes you to the “Last Forbidden Kingdom” of Lo Manthang. You will walk through dramatic, arid landscapes that look more like the Tibetan plateau than the lush hills of Nepal. You will explore ancient caves, red-walled monasteries, and the walled city of Lo Manthang itself. The culture here is heavily Tibetan, preserved for centuries by its isolation.
Winter Treks In Nepal, Mustang is cold. You must be prepared for freezing nights. Some teahouses may close for the winter, so booking with a guide is essential to ensure accommodation. The views of the snow-capped Nilgiri and Annapurna mountains against the brown desert landscape are stunning.
3. Annapurna Balcony Trek
- Difficulty: Easy
- Region: Annapurna
- Price: From €428
- Duration: 7 days
The Annapurna Balcony Trek, also known as the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, is perhaps the most popular winter treks in Nepal. Its relatively low altitude (maximum 3,210 meters) ensures the trail remains open and safe throughout the season.
The highlight is the sunrise hike to Poon Hill. From here, you get a front-row seat to a massive Himalayan panorama, including Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna I (8,091m). The trail passes through charming Gurung villages like Ghandruk and dense rhododendron forests. In winter, the mountain views are often crystal clear, free from the spring haze.
This is a short trek, usually completed in 7 days. It is perfect for beginners or those with limited time. The teahouses on this route are some of the best in Nepal, offering warm dining halls and good food, which is a great comfort in winter.
4. Far West Nepal Trek
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Region: Far West (Rara/Karnali)
- Price: From €1408
- Duration: 16 days
For the true adventurer who wants to escape the crowds completely, the Far West Nepal Trek is the answer. This remote region sees very few tourists. The trek often focuses on the area around Rara Lake or the trails following the Karnali River.
You will walk through untouched wilderness and authentic villages that have seen little modernization. The culture here is distinct from the rest of Nepal. The winter solitude in this region is profound. You get to experience a side of Nepal that feels raw and wild.
This trek requires a sense of adventure. Accommodation can be basic, often involving camping or simple homestays. Winter access can be tricky depending on snow levels on the access roads or airstrips, so flexibility is key. It is best for experienced trekkers looking for solitude.
5. Everest Base Camp Trek
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Region: Everest (Khumbu)
- Price: From €1561
- Duration: 14 days
Yes, you can trek to Everest Base Camp in winter. In fact, many experienced trekkers prefer it. The trails, which are packed in October and April, are quiet and peaceful. The views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam are sharper and more spectacular against the winter sky.
You will follow the classic route through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and Dingboche. Standing at Base Camp (5,364m) in the dead of winter, surrounded by frozen giants, is a humbling experience.
It will be very cold. Nighttime temperatures can drop to -20°C or lower. You need high-quality thermal gear and a heavy-duty sleeping bag. Some lodges at higher altitudes may be closed, but there are always enough open to support trekkers. The days are shorter, so you need to start walking early.
6. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Difficulty: Very Challenging
- Region: Dhaulagiri
- Price: From €1465
- Duration: 15 days
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is a serious expedition. It circles the seventh-highest mountain in the world. It involves crossing the French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,200m).
This trek is extremely difficult in deep winter due to snow blocking the high passes. For 2026, this trek is recommended for the late autumn/early winter window (late November to early December) or late winter/early spring.
Attempting the full circuit in January requires specialized mountaineering skills and equipment. However, lower sections or modified itineraries can offer incredible winter solitude near the base of the mountain.
This is a camping trek. You must be physically fit and experienced. If you plan this for the winter season, consult closely with Glacier Safari Treks about snow conditions. It is one of the most rewarding challenges in the Himalayas.
7. Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Region: Manaslu
- Price: From €950
- Duration: 14 days
The Manaslu Circuit has become a favorite alternative to the Annapurna Circuit. It circles Mount Manaslu (8,163m) and passes through the Nubri valley, which has strong Tibetan cultural influence.
Like Dhaulagiri, the high point is the Larkya La Pass (5,060m). In the deep winter, this pass can be closed by snow. However, the trek up to the snowline offers incredible culture and scenery. The lower villages are vibrant and welcoming in winter treks in nepal.
Manaslu is a restricted area, requiring a special permit and a minimum of two trekkers with a guide. The teahouses are basic but improving. Winter trekking here means fewer crowds and a more intimate experience with the local culture, but crossing the pass is weather-dependent.
8. Langtang Gosaikund Trek
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Region: Langtang
- Price: From €814
- Duration: 13 days
This trek combines the beautiful Langtang Valley with the sacred Gosaikunda lakes. The Langtang Valley is known as the “Valley of Glaciers.” It is a relatively short drive from Kathmandu, making it accessible.
In winter treks in nepal, the Kyanjin Gompa area offers stunning 360-degree views of snow-capped peaks. The Gosaikunda lakes (4,380m) will be frozen solid, a magical sight.
The pass connecting Langtang and Gosaikunda (Laurebina La) can be difficult in snow. Sometimes the trek is modified to do the two sections separately or just the valley. The Tamang heritage in this region is rich, and the hospitality is warm. It is a great value trek for the views you get.
9. Tsum Valley and Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Region: Manaslu / Ganesh Himal
- Price: From €737
- Duration: 11 days
The Tsum Valley is a “Beyul,” a hidden valley sanctuary in Buddhism. It was restricted until 2008. The culture here is ancient, with centuries-old monasteries like Mu Gompa.
This trek does not go as high as the Manaslu Circuit, making it a better option for winter. You walk through pine forests and traditional stone villages. The views of the Ganesh Himal range are fantastic.
This is a cultural trek. You will see monks, nuns, and traditional Tibetan Buddhist life. Accommodation is in homestays or basic lodges. Winter adds a layer of peace to this spiritual valley. You need restricted area permits for Tsum Valley.
10. Upper Dolpo & Shey Gompa Trek
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Region: Dolpo
- Price: From €2310
- Duration: 23 days
Upper Dolpo is the land of the snow leopard. It was made famous by the book “The Snow Leopard.” It is a high-altitude desert region, culturally Tibetan and extremely remote.
The trek to Shey Gompa (Crystal Mountain) involves crossing high passes like the Kang La (5,350m). In winter, this is a true expedition. The isolation is total.
This trek is expensive due to the high permit fees ($500 for 10 days) and the logistics of camping. In winter, it is suitable only for those ready for extreme cold and potential snow delays. However, the stark beauty of the frozen landscape is unmatched.
11. Humla Limi Valley Trek
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Region: Far West (Humla)
- Price: From €1465
- Duration: 17 days
The Limi Valley in the far northwest of Nepal is one of the most secluded places on earth. It borders Tibet and follows the ancient salt trade routes.
You cross the Nara La pass (4,620m) and Nyalu La pass (4,940m). The valley itself is wide and beautiful. You will see herds of yaks and perhaps wild blue sheep.
Access is via a flight to Simikot. Flights can be delayed in winter due to weather. This trek requires full camping support. It is a journey back in time, far from the modern world. It is best for those who have trekked in Nepal before and want something completely different.
12. Rolwaling Valley Trek
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Region: Rolwaling (West of Everest)
- Price: From €989
- Duration: 10 days
Rolwaling is a steep, narrow valley nestled between the Langtang and Everest ranges. It is famous for the Tsho Rolpa glacial lake.
The valley is rugged and less commercialized. The climb to the village of Na (4,180m) is spectacular. Winter brings a stillness to this deep valley. You are surrounded by towering peaks like Gauri Shankar.
The trail is tougher than the standard Everest base camp route. Facilities are basic. In winter, the Tashi Lapcha pass which connects to the Everest region is technical and dangerous, so this trek is usually done as an “in and out” exploration of the valley itself during the colder months.
13. Nar Phu Valley Trek
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Region: Annapurna
- Price: From €1064
- Duration: 15 days
Nar and Phu are two remote villages tucked away north of the Annapurna Circuit. They were closed to visitors until 2002. The culture here is raw and medieval.
The trek involves narrow canyons and high plateaus. Phu village looks like a fortress carved into the rock. The Kang La Pass (5,300m) offers one of the best views of the Annapurna range.
Like Tsum, this is a restricted area. The winter cold here is biting, but the skies are incredibly clear. The pass can be blocked, so checking conditions with your guide is vital. It is a fantastic alternative to the busy Annapurna Circuit.
14. Lumba Sumba Pass Trek
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Region: Kanchenjunga / Makalu
- Price: From €1830
- Duration: 19 days
This trek connects the Kanchenjunga region with the Makalu region in eastern Nepal. It is part of the Great Himalaya Trail.
It traverses the Lumba Sumba Pass (5,159m). The route goes through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and the Makalu Barun National Park. You see diverse flora and fauna, and possibly the red panda.
This is a camping trek in a very isolated region. Winter treks in nepal, here is a serious undertaking. It is for those who want to traverse wild country where you might not see another tourist for days.
15. The Great Solu Loop
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Region: Solu Valley (Lower Everest)
- Price: €893
- Duration: 15 days
The Great Solu Loop is a 15-day immersion into the authentic culture of the lower Solukhumbu district. This route avoids the crowded trails of the high Everest region. You begin in Aiselukharka and trek through rarely visited Sherpa and Rai villages. You stay in family lodges and share meals with locals, experiencing true Nepalese hospitality.
The trail connects with the historic path used by the first Everest expeditions in Karikhola. You visit the serene Junebesi Valley and the imposing Thupten Choling monastery to witness the daily lives of monks and nuns.
The journey culminates with a climb to Pikey Peak (4,060m). This summit offers one of the best viewpoints in the Himalayas, presenting a panorama of eight peaks over 8,000 meters, including Mt. Everest.
This trek is ideal for spring and autumn when the rhododendrons are in bloom. It involves a maximum altitude of 4,060m, making it challenging but technically accessible. Accommodation includes a unique mix of community lodges, homestays, and a night in a monastery. It is perfect for those seeking cultural depth and solitude.