Trekking · Nepal
Winter Trekking in Nepal
December to February is cold, dry and crystal clear with empty trails — best for lower treks like Poon Hill.
Winter — December to February — is cold but dry, very clear and wonderfully quiet, making it an underrated season for the right treks. The cold months bring some of the sharpest mountain views of the year and near-empty trails, but short days and snowbound high passes mean winter suits lower and middle-elevation routes rather than the big circuits. This page is part of our Nepal trekking seasons collection.
Why trek in winter
Winter air is dry and stable, so visibility is often outstanding and rain is rare. With the autumn crowds gone, trails are peaceful and lodges quiet. If you can handle cold nights and shorter daylight, you get clear peaks largely to yourself. It is the off-season opposite of the autumn peak: less reliable warmth, far fewer people.
Best winter treks
Stick to lower and shorter routes that stay open and accessible:
- Ghorepani Poon Hill: a classic short trek with famous sunrise views over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, comfortable in winter.
- Everest View trek: the lower Khumbu around Namche and Tengboche, with grand views without the highest, coldest camps.
- Mardi Himal: a scenic mid-altitude ridge trek above Pokhara, manageable in clear winter weather.
- Day hikes around Kathmandu and Pokhara on the crispest, clearest days of the year.
For more ideas, see our roundup of the best short treks in Nepal.
What to expect
Lower trails have mild, sunny days and cold nights, while higher camps are bitterly cold, often well below freezing after dark. Days are short, so plan shorter stages and start early. Occasional snowfall can dust the trails and temporarily close higher sections. Pack a four-season sleeping bag, proper insulation, gloves and a warm hat regardless of route.
What to avoid
Skip routes that depend on crossing high passes. The Thorong La on the Annapurna Circuit and the Everest Three Passes are usually snowbound and risky in winter, and some high lodges close. If your heart is set on those, plan instead for autumn or read the best time to trek in Nepal for the safest windows.
Planning your winter trek
Even lower treks reach altitude, and the cold raises the stakes — read our altitude sickness in Nepal guide and plan warm kit and pacing with the Nepal trekking guide. For the season overview, see the best time to trek in Nepal.
Frequently asked questions
Is winter a good time to trek in Nepal?+
Yes, for the right routes. Winter (December to February) is cold but dry and exceptionally clear, with empty trails and quiet lodges. It suits lower and middle-elevation treks such as Poon Hill, the Everest View trek and Mardi Himal, while high passes above roughly 5,000 m are usually snowbound.
How cold is winter trekking in Nepal?+
Lower trails have mild, pleasant days with cold nights, while high camps are bitterly cold, with night temperatures well below freezing. Days are short, so plan shorter stages. Warm layers, a four-season sleeping bag and good gloves are essential at any altitude above the foothills.
Which treks are best in winter?+
Lower and shorter treks shine in winter: Ghorepani Poon Hill, the Everest View trek, Mardi Himal, and day hikes around Kathmandu and Pokhara. These stay accessible and reward you with crystal-clear views, while the big high-pass circuits are best left for autumn or spring.
Can high passes be crossed in winter?+
Usually not safely. High passes such as the Thorong La and the Everest Three Passes are frequently blocked by snow and ice from December to February, and some high lodges close. Winter is not the season for routes that depend on crossing passes above about 5,000 m.
