From Chopta to Kedarkantha, the easiest winter treks in Uttarakhand for first-time trekkers

This winter you can also go to Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila track. Actually, this easy winter track starting from Chopta is considered perfect for beginners. Passing through snowy forests of deodar, birch and pine, this track reaches Tungnath, where the world’s highest Shiva temple is located. If you climb a little further, you can see a 360 degree view of many Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Trishul and Kedar Dam from Chandrashila. You can also easily avail normal lodges and homestays in Chopta and surrounding villages.

Apart from this you can also do Dayara Bugyal track. Dayara Bugyal Track is famous for its beautiful alpine meadows which look like heaven covered with white snow in winters. Starting from Raithal village, this track gradually climbs up through oak and maple forests. Even before reaching Bugyal, Gangotri range becomes visible. This track is neither very long nor very difficult. For this reason, this track is considered perfect for families and first-time trekkers.

Apart from this, you can also go to Kedarkantha Track. Kedarkantha, one of the most famous winter tracks of India, is considered a safe and adventure-filled option for beginners. Starting from a narrow track, it passes through dense forests and open fields. Juda’s pond and base camp are its main campsites. The complete route guides, gear rental and camp sites enhance the beauty of this track.

Before choosing a winter track, always keep in mind what your fitness level is. For this trek, you can start with easy and safe routes like Kedarkantha, Dayara Bugyal and Nag Tibba. For this track, you layer base layer, insulating layer and outer shell clothes. Apart from this, it is most important for you to wear high ankle trekking shoes with water proof and good grip for this track.

Try to stay hydrated while going on this track. Actually, thirst is less in cold but the body still needs water. Try to stay in the base town for a day, eat light and avoid drinking alcohol and cigarettes. To go to the track, keep your bag light, keep thermal, gloves, woolen cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, hand lamp, power bank, medicine and tracking pole in the bag.

Apart from this, the roads on winter tracks can be slippery, in such a situation, follow the advice of your guide only. Do not try to move ahead in snowstorm or whiteout conditions and always keep your phone and power bank in your jacket or sleeping bag.