Are you aware that the winter season offers the most remarkable experience when visiting Nepal? The nation provides plenty for travelers or explorers, even during the winter months, despite the climate being less than ideal in many other locations or nations. If you're seeking to enjoy a wonderful vacation this winter, here are seven top destinations to explore in Nepal during the winter months.
Are you seeking any kind of trekking or travel package in Nepal before that? If that’s the case, you can easily browse through numerous packages offered by Walkers Expedition. We offer an extensive range of treks, tours, and peak climbing packages for you to select.
Reasons to Explore Nepal in the Winter Months?
Prior to discussing the top destinations to explore in Nepal during the winter, here are some highlights of winter in Nepal. As a mountainous region, winter is the ideal time to see the snow-laden summits, icy lakes, and frigid temperatures of the Himalayas. Additionally, don't forget to try the regional dishes that are essential in winter.
In Nepal, the winter period begins in late November and lasts through February. In the Himalayan area, temperatures can drop significantly below zero, leading to intense cold in the Hilly and Terai regions. In the Kathmandu Valley, the days are significantly warmer compared to the mornings and evenings. Additionally, the Kathmandu Valley enjoys clear sunny days even during the coldest winter periods.
Taking all that into account, here’s why anyone, particularly a travel lover, should explore Nepal during the winter months:
Incredible and Magnificent Scenery of the Peaks
The most incredible aspect of winter in Nepal is the stunning and enchanting sights of the highest mountains, such as Mt. Everest, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and more. These peaks are observable during different seasons as well. Yet, during winter, you undoubtedly have the finest view. Thus, if you wish to experience the finest views of Nepal's highest peaks without embarking on any treks or peak excursions, the winter months are the ideal time to travel to Nepal.
Savory Delicacies and Regional Specialties
Winter inspires the culinary ingenuity of Nepalese cuisine. Various regions in Nepal present astonishing and distinct dishes such as jhol momos, thukpa, and local dal bhat tarkari, among others. These Nepali dishes will undoubtedly deepen your appreciation for Nepali cuisine.
Festivals and Occasions
Nepal is most recognized for its rich cultural and traditional variety. Consequently, individuals from various cultures and traditions coexist here in harmony and prosperity. As a result, there are multiple festivals that you can experience solely during the winter season. Individuals in various locations commemorate festivities such as Maghe Sankranti, Saraswati Puja, Lhosar, among others. Additionally, the New Year celebrations in Kathmandu and Pokhara provide an ideal atmosphere for tourists
Promotions and Reductions in Travel Packages
Numerous travel agencies, including Green Valley Nepal Treks, offer various deals and discounts in the winter. This is due to the fact that the count of tourists is relatively less during the winter season. Therefore, to experience the finest aspects of Nepal while spending less than normal, you should travel to Nepal in the winter season. Additionally, the discounts aren't confined to travel agencies; restaurants and lodges also provide discounts during winter.
8 Top Destinations to Explore in Nepal Throughout Winter Season
Visitors and tourists will always find plenty of locations in Nepal regardless of whether they come during summer, winter, or autumn. The nation provides timeless beauty, atmospheres, adventures, and regional dishes to its guests. Additionally, the warmth provided by the residents makes a visit to Nepal feel like a journey to paradise.
Chitwan National Park
If you seek the top destination for winter, our initial recommendation would be Chitwan National Park. This is one of the most well-known national parks in Nepal, recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Since Chitwan National Park is situated in the Terai area (Chitwan), summers can be quite intolerable.
Thus, we recommend you reserve the Chitwan National Park Package if you are looking for the ideal place to visit in winter. Green Valley Nepal Treks offers two distinct packages that allow you to explore the charm of Chitwan National Park.
Activities
- Jungle expedition and animal observation.
- Investigating the Tharu Culture and their way of living.
- Canoeing on the Rapti River.
- Savoring Ghongi, a traditional Tharu dish most popular in Chitwan
Kalinchowk - Top Snow Adventure in Nepal During Winter Period
Kalinchowk is the ideal spot for those who enjoy engaging with snow. This is a mountainous resort situated in the Dolakha district. Every year, numerous national and international tourists travel to Kalinchowk because of its snowy landscape and religious significance.
Moreover, the stunning scenery of the snow-blanketed Kuri village enhances Kalinchowk as an exceptional spot for the winter months. You can take a cable car ride that leads you to the temple, and if you enjoy trekking, you can experience hiking through the stunning scenery of the Gaurisankhar conservation area.
Activities
- Hiking in the Gaurishankar conservation zone.
- Feeling the sacred and celestial atmosphere at the Kalinchowk Temple.
- Skiing on the snowy terrain of Kuri village and having fun in the snow.
- Observing the stunningly arranged homes in Kuri village featuring vibrant roofs.
Kathmandu Valley
Another ideal place to explore in Nepal during winter is the Kathmandu Valley itself. The Kathmandu Valley offers a unique winter experience, featuring lovely sunshine even during the coldest days. Moreover, by visiting hill stations such as Chandragiri and Phulchoki, you can experience snowfall as well.
A different draw of Kathmandu Valley during winter is the variety of foods and dishes available. Numerous restaurants and cafes range from 5-star hotels to local and family-run establishments that serve their specialty dishes. Additionally, in the winter months, Jhol Momo, Thukpa, and Local Rice (Thakali) should not be overlooked.
Activities
- Day hike to Hattiban-Champadevi-Chandragiri trail to reach the Chandragiri hill station and Bhaleshwor temple.
- Exploring the cultural heritage of the Kathmandu valley, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
- Witnessing the religious aspect of Kathmandu also known as the city of temples and visiting some of the famous temples like Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath, Patan Krishna Mandir, etc.
- Trying local cuisines found in the Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur districts and exploring the local communities of Newar people residing here for centuries.
Ghorepani-PoonHill Trek
If you want to go for a short yet adventurous trek during the winter season, the Ghandruk-PoonHill trek is the best option for you. In this trek, you can experience the beauty of two different destinations; Ghandruk the starting point of the trek, and PoonHill, the endpoint of the trek.
Ghandruk is a village best known for experiencing the Gurung heritage. This village is located in the lap of the Himalayan ranges. Therefore, you can witness the jaw-dropping views of the snow-covered mountains once you reach Gurung village. Besides, another best thing about Ghandruk is that the locals serve the best-in-country Thakali cuisines with all the local ingredients.
Besides, PoonHill is a hill station located at an altitude of 3210 meters above sea level. If you want to go for a short trek, the Poon Hill trek takes just 2-3 days to complete. However, the view and the trail are still incomparable. Once you reach the top of the PoonHill, the mesmerizing view can lure you to never return.
Activities
- Trekking to the PoonHill, a hill station at an altitude of 3120 meters above sea level.
- Mesmerizing experience of the Gurung heritage at the Ghandruk Village with mouth-watering Thakali cuisine.
- Camping at the PoonHill height and experiencing the best short yet adventurous trekking journey.
Kakani
Within just 30 to 45 minutes of ride from Kathmandu lies a beautiful place named Kakani. This place is situated at an altitude of 2073 meters and is best known for its strawberry farm. Other than that, the place is also famous for several towers and is one of the closest places from Kathmandu to get a clearer view of the Himalayas.
If you arrive here, you can explore the Shivapuri National Park since it is situated quite near Kakani.
Activities
- Explore the renowned and lovely strawberry farm.
- Start a trek to Shivapuri National Park.
- You can also camp overnight in the national park itself.
- Enjoy the sights of enchanting snow-laden summits from the towers.
- If you are passionate about bikes, you can also try mountain biking in Kakani.
Mustang - The Prohibited Realm in Nepal
Mustang is an exquisite town situated in the Himalayan area of Nepal. Referred to as the Forbidden Kingdom, it is an ideal location to immerse oneself in the Himalayan lifestyle, traditions, and culture. To visit Mustang, you must obtain a special permit. Mustang is the ideal place to visit in Nepal during the winter season.
In addition to trekking and adventures, you can partake in various festivals such as the Tiji festival and savor local specialties like Marpha, Apple, and Thakali. Moreover, Mustang houses one of Nepal's most sacred temples, the Muktinath temple. Each year, numerous Hindus travel to Mustang, particularly for the Muktinath temple.
Activities
- Hiking to Upper Mustang.
- Bicycle or Jeep journeys through the mountains.
- Go to the Muktinath temple and enjoy a swift dip in 108 taps.
- Explore the flavor of regional apples and various other products crafted from apples.
Ilam - The Winter Gem of Eastern Nepal
The Ilam municipality is situated 600 kilometers away from Kathmandu and is renowned for its tea production. Upon arriving in Ilam, you will begin to notice tea plants that blanket much of this area. Additionally, you will encounter other stunning locations such as Bhedetar, Antu Dada, Kanyam, Fikkal, and several more serene and beautiful areas.
Activities
- Explore the tea plantation and acquire some local tea for yourself.
- Enjoy a picturesque journey from Kathmandu to Ilam (600 km).
- Explore various tourist spots in Ilam, such as Antu Dada, Mai Pokhari, Sadakpur, Bhedetar, and more.
- Join in the annual winter fair that takes place each year.
Pokhara - The Lakeside City
To experience the finest winter in Nepal, Pokhara might be the perfect place for you. Pokhara offers everything from the enchanting sunrise panorama at Sarangkot, the tranquil atmosphere at White Stupa, numerous lakes, and lightly trafficked roads, to stunning vistas of peaks such as Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, Manaslu, and more.
Few tourists who travel to Nepal depart without enjoying the stunning lifestyle found in Pokhara. The most enjoyable aspect of Pokhara is its vibrant nightlife along the lakeshore. Arriving in Pokhara during the New Year period (which is winter, naturally) means the festivities are elevated. Consequently, Pokhara is a must-visit location for anyone traveling to Nepal in winter.
Activities
- Experience the captivating sunrise and radiant summit of Machhapuchhre Himal as sunlight hits from Sarangkot (1600 meters).
- Trek to the White Stupa to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere at a height of 1100 meters.
- Enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake and explore the Tal Barahi temple located at the lake's center.
- Biking through Pokhara city and discovering various caves such as Bat Cave and Mahendra Gufa
Conclusion
Nepal is an ideal travel spot regardless of the season you select. Nevertheless, if you explore specific locations under particular weather conditions and temperatures, you will discover the finest aspects of this small, mysterious country.
This blog highlights some of the top destinations to explore in Nepal during the winter months. These locations are relatively simpler to access in colder weather. Yet, if you are an adventure and challenge enthusiast, you can seek numerous other trekking, touring, and peak climbing options that demand significant mental and physical endurance during the winter season.
Additionally, if you want the top trekking company in Nepal to enhance your travel and trekking experiences with adventure and ease, feel free to reach out to us.
