16th June 2018

Six Best Winter Destinations in Nepal

The seasons that see the highest influx of tourist are March-May and September-November, as it is the time when the weather starts to get warm for outdoor activities. However, winter trekking and holidaying shouldn’t be overlooked. The temperature may be colder, but the views will warm your heart. Bonus point: you won’t be competing for space along the tourist-packed trails or lodges. Here we have listed some of beautiful winter destinations you can visit in Nepal.

Poon Hill

During the peak season, this iconic viewpoint is very popular and often crowded with tourists. But not during the winter season. The trekking trail passes through picturesque villages and forest, and the main highlight is enjoying the stunning sunrise views from Poon Hill (3,210meters). An easily well-accessible trek from Pokhara, the trek has properly developed tourism infrastructures that make the trek comfortable and convenient even in winter.

Annapurna Community Homestay Trek

 It serves as a great alternative to Poon Hill trek at any time of the year, since it is comparatively less crowded. The trail follows the same trail as Poon Hill, but along a different ridge and reaches its peak at MohareDanda (3,330m), that offers incredible mountain views. Since it is a homestay trek, it also offers a great chance to witness and experience the lifestyle of the ethnic Gurung and Magar community.

Kathmandu Valley

Although the temperature might get little chilly, its never unbearable. Short treks and day hikes around the valley are ideal in winter time. The pros are that you don’t have to go too high and always end the hike with a warm retreat at a hotel. Some popular and suitable trekking/hiking routes that can be completed within a span of 2-3 days are Sanga-Panauti hike, Nagarkot-Dhulikhel-Bhaktapur hike.

Bandipur

Located atop a stunning hill in Tanahu, Bandipur is a picturesque Newari town that can pass for a living cultural museum. Once given the status of Ghost Town due to high emigration, the tourism here was revived in past decade by local efforts. Bandipur is epitome of impressive Newari architecture with its intricately built houses with ornate wood carvings. With its refreshing vicinity and weather, it serves as a perfect winter getaway away from the city’s bustle.

Kalinchowk

About 150 kilometers away from Kathmandu, Kalinchowk is one of the most famous winter destinations in Nepal. It is a seven-hour bus ride from Kathmandu along the road that is partly smooth and partly bumpy. The main highlight of the trek is an hour-long ascend to the Kalinchowk top at elevation 3,800m. From here, you can have fabulous views of the Himalayan range stretching from east to west!

Langtang region

The Langtang region is easily accessible from Kathmandu as it lies just north, bordering Tibet. Here, you can embark on wonderful trekking journeys like Tamang Heritage Trail or Ruby Ridge Trail that comprises the best of natural and cultural experiences. Since both treks revolve around the elevation of 3,000 meters, the temperature is tolerable even in the winter season.

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