People often show curiosity about whether Nepal experiences snowfall or not. Let me clear this, Nepal is home to the highest peak in the world, Everest (8848 meters). Similarly, there are 8 amongst the world’s highest peaks above 8000 meters. Also, there are many other small and big mountains, glacier villages, and snow lakes.
Hence, snow hiking in Nepal is a lovely trip everyone should give a try once in a lifetime. Snow hiking in this country can be both winter hiking and high-altitude hiking in other seasons. It means you can enjoy a dreamy snow adventure throughout the year.
The higher altitude snow hiking can be done anytime, but the actual snowfall happens during winter. Similarly, the monsoon also brings a beautiful snowfall sometimes. You can see breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains, villages, forests with snow, and an amazing trail created with snowfall.
There will be many photographic opportunities while enjoying hiking. This is the best way to fulfill your snow dream, along with the beauty of the Himalayan settlements and unique culture. Let’s know more about what are the major places for snow hiking in Nepal and how to make it more enjoyable.
Table of Contents
What is Snow Hiking?
Snow hiking is defined as an activity of walking or trekking through snow-covered landscapes. This can be either on foot or with the aid of snowshoes. This activity is also called by the names winter hiking or snowshoeing.
It is popular all over the world, with many people waiting for winter to enjoy snow hiking. It is also considered a popular winter sport that lets people enjoy the beauty of snowy environments while engaging in physical activity.
Bhimtang Village with Snow
Where to go for snow hiking in Nepal?
During the winter season, many places of higher altitude provide you with an opportunity to enjoy snow hiking of Nepal. If we want the major places, then consider the following:
Langtang Valley Trek
The Langtang Valley trek is easily accessible from Kathmandu, Nepal. This can be the best snow hiking option for you if you want a quick trip. Within a week, you will have the best snow experience in the lap of the Himalayas.
This is a popular snow hiking trek in Nepal, famous for its serene atmosphere, well-maintained trails, and panoramic views of the mountains. Snow-covered mountains such as Ganesh Himal and Langtang Lirung are a treat for your eyes.
Further, the Langtang Valley trek can be the perfect trail for a short vacation with a great balance of nature and cultural immersion. This is normally a moderately difficult trek; however, snow and ice can increase the difficulty level, especially at higher altitudes.
The trek reaches up to 3800 meters, so acclimatization is necessary. In winter, the temperature can drop below the freezing point, mostly at higher altitudes. The snow and icy conditions make the atmosphere look amazing, but hiking in such conditions can be risky sometimes.
You can expect a peaceful hiking experience with fewer crowds in comparison to peak seasons. The major highlights of this trek are snow-covered trails, frozen waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. You can also enjoy snow lake hiking in Gosaikunda Lake.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Snow hiking is possible in the Annapurna Base Camp trek in winter. It offers a unique experience with snow-covered trails and amazing views of the mountains. Snowfall can be an amazing experience here, with the potential risk of an avalanche.
Winter in this region brings a temperature drop of up to -10 degrees Celsius. Snowfall is common in this season, while the trail can make it challenging and potentially slippery. You should have a good fitness level and require proper acclimatization for the journey.
In this snow hiking, you can expect fewer crowds, a peaceful atmosphere, and magical scenery. However, this is slightly difficult than the Langtang Valley trek. You may have to do extra preparations with more snow hiking gear. Put on snow hiking pants and snow hiking spikes for comfort.
Poon Hill Trekking
During winter (December to February), snow hiking is possible on the Poon Hill Trek. Though Ponhill is at a lower altitude than mountain trails, the top of Ghorepani Poonhill can be a magical snow experience.
You can expect low temperatures, especially at night and morning, with potential icy and or snowy trails in mostly forest areas. You can capture the moment on your device and create many memories there.
During winter months, the temperature can range from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius and can drop to -10 degrees in the morning and evening. Snow can make trails slippery, mostly in forest areas.
Along with snow hiking, you can enjoy stunning mountain views such as the Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri Mountain, and surrounding peaks. However, you have to be careful about possible rainfall and necessary gear.
Everest Base Camp Trek
You can enjoy snow hiking in Everest Base Camp in the winter season. This can be a very beautiful journey to your eyes, but challenges are not hidden. You have to deal with many life-threatening risks due to high altitude and extreme climate. The temperature can drop to -20 degrees Celsius.
Snowfall is possible anytime in winter; however, it does not remain for the whole day. The trail become slippery and difficult to navigate. Due to unpredictable weather changes, the flights can be delayed, and altitude sickness adds more difficulty to this journey.
Unlike the peak season (Autumn and Spring), you can enjoy peaceful hiking in snow, but snow may block the path and create more hurdles. You need extra preparations and gear for your safety.
Pikey Peak Trek
Pikey Peak trek can be a great option for a snow hiking experience in Nepal in January. You will enjoy unbelievable natural beauty, comprising snow-covered mountains and a serene atmosphere with fewer crowds. You can play with snow and fulfill your snow dream on this trail.
You will witness the stunning views of the Himalayan Range, including Mount Everest, with sunrise. As this is off-season, you can enjoy a peaceful journey. Besides snow hiking, you will also enjoy the Tamang Culture and local lifestyle there.
The temperature can drop extremely low in the morning and at night, with possible snowstorms. Likewise, the rail is slippery with limited services, so be careful with your preparation. Maintain good relations with locals, guides, and porters for a safer and more fun journey.
Mardi Himal Trek
You can enjoy snow hiking in the Mardi Himal trek during winter. Normally, December to February is popular for this purpose. The trail above 3000 meters is often covered with snow in winter. The daytime temperature ranges from 5 to 10 degrees Celsius, while the nighttime temperature drops to -5 degrees Celsius.
Though the scene looks amazing, the trail can be slippery and challenging with snow. You have to be careful while hiking on snow. Further, winter is off-season, so you can expect a quiet and soothing hiking experience.
With clear skies and stunning views, you can create lovely memories there. But you have to be aware of the unpredictable climate.
Manaslu Circuit Trail with snow
Short Hiking Options
If you are looking for short snow hiking options, then you can also try Kalinchowk (Dolakha), Shivapuri Peak, Phulchowki (Lalitpur), Nagarkot, and Sundarijal. But these places have limited or occasional snowfall.
How do you hike in snow?
Hiking in snow requires proper gear and techniques to stay warm and safe. With all the necessary gear in your bag, you can follow the techniques given below for successful snow hiking in Nepal:
Walking on snow or ice: While walking on snow, you have to take short, shuffling steps on icy surfaces. You should not swing your arms with heavy loads.
Uphill Travel: You can use switchbacks to conserve energy or kick steps into snow to make platforms there.
Downhill Travel: While doing a downhill travel, you should walk with a wide stance and use poles for stability.
Testing the snow: You should use trekking poles to test the stability of snow and ice before stepping.
Staying Warm: You have to be mindful of your body temperature and then adjust layers accordingly.
Langtang Nagthali
Which month is best for snow hiking in Nepal?
The winter season (December, January, and February months) is best for snow hiking in Nepal. During the Spring and Autumn seasons, there is a huge crowd of trekkers, and days are mostly sunny.
So, in order to enjoy the snow, you have to plan your trip for early winter. This ensures a peaceful and safe journey in the high-altitude Himalayan region. The extreme cold may create difficulty in navigating the path.
Can we experience snowfall in Nepal?
Yes, you can experience snowfall in Nepal. In fact, Nepal is popular for its higher mountain ranges, snowfall, and snow-covered villages. However, you cannot experience this situation whole year. It’s possible mostly in the winter season.
The mountain trails of Nepal, as well as the hilly villages, are covered with snow in the winter season. There will be snowfall in many places, creating beautiful scenery. You can enjoy the snow and take photos and videos there.
However, this beauty does not come with comfort; you have to navigate snow-blocked paths and extreme temperatures. The higher altitude gives altitude sickness, and rescue becomes difficult with snow everywhere.
What shoes for snow hiking in Nepal?
For a snow trek in Nepal, you need waterproof, insulated, high ankle support, and good traction shoes. Also, the shoes must be comfortable, compatible with crampons or microspikes.
You should go for winter hiking shoes, mountaineering shoes, or insulated shoes, but make sure you put on woolen or thermal socks inside. The best boots for snow hiking are Merrell Thermo, Salamon X Ultra Winter, La Sportiva Nepal EVO, North Face Chilkat, among others.
How many calories do you burn hiking through snow?
Walking through snow burns more calories than walking on a clear surface. An average person might burn about 270 calories in an hour while walking on snow. So, it is absolutely important for weight loss also.
However, how many calories you will lose depends on several factors. It differs as per your walking speed on snow, weight, age, and fitness level.
Snow Hike in Nepal with Families
If you are thinking about a snow hike in Nepal with family, then the Ghorpani Poonhill trek is the best option. This can be a short trek of just 4 to 5 days, and you will create a lifetime memory with your family.
Normally, you should consider a short and easy trek for snow hiking with family. You have to think about the comfort zone of your children and elderly parents.
Other places for family snow hiking in Nepal are the Mardi Himal trek, the Langtang Valley Trek, and the Dhaulagiri trek.
You should also consider the Shivapuri National Park Area, Dolakha, Nagarkot, and Phulchowi for snow hiking. However, snowfall in these areas is occasional.
Enjoy a snow moment with your family and capture photographs for future memories. You can also enjoy snowfall in Chandragiri Hills in winter.
Larke la Pass Manaslu
How to prepare for snow hiking in Nepal?
Snow hiking in Nepal is a fun activity, but you have to be very careful about preparation. Here is how you can prepare for this, have a look:
You should prepare your body and mind for this journey. For that, you can practice some exercise, running or physical movement, before starting this trip.
Then, you should do some yoga moves and meditations to clear your mind.
Visit a doctor if you have any discomfort in your body.
Be ready with all the necessary documents and paperwork.
You have to take a travel insurance policy in your homeland.
Make sure you do light but smart packing.
A proper acclimatization plan is necessary as rest days in your snow hiking.
Can you hike in snow without snowshoes?
Yes, it is possible to hike in the snow without snowshoes, but it depends on several conditions. Snow depth, trail conditions, as well as temperature decide the requirement of snowshoes. Also, the fitness level of the person and their hiking skills matter.
Though it can be manageable most of the time, you have to be very careful about your health and safety. Make sure you put on good snowshoes to reduce potential risks while doing snow hiking.
Packing List for Snow Hiking in Nepal
You must be thinking about what to pack for snow hiking in Nepal. Here is a list:
Base layers of clothing, mostly moisture-wicking layers. This includes thermal underwear, long-sleeved shirts, and pants.
Mid layers comprise fleece jackets and a pullover for insulation.
The outer layer includes a waterproof jacket and pants.
Down jacket for higher altitude hiking.
Warm hat and buff
Hiking socks and gloves
Sunglasses and hiking poles
Thermal bottle and snacks
Toiletries and personal self-care products
Tips for snow hiking in Nepal
Hiking tips can make your snow hiking even better in Nepal. Here are the necessary tips you must follow for a safe and successful journey:
First of all, choose the right travel company in Nepal. Have a proper conversation with them before confirming the trip.
Make sure you plan the trip in the right season (mostly winter for snow hiking). Early winter or late winter is less risky.
Follow the guidance of the team operator and the local guide.
Your bags should have proper winter gear.
Layer your clothes to avoid the cold from inner and to avoid the water from the outside. Snow hiking clothes are key here.
Make sure you start your journey each day early.
You can use snow hiking boots, hiking poles, and snow baskets to reduce knee pain.
Be careful about altitude sickness and consume Diamox if necessary.
Stay hydrated and consume snacks and a protein bar in each small interval.
Stay in the group and inform someone as soon as you get a signal of an emergency.
Conclusion
Snow hiking in Nepal can be an interesting way to spend days in snow-covered villages and mountains. You will fulfill your snow dream and create lovely memories. This is a great opportunity to play snow with your children and family members.
But you have to consider the safety measures to reduce the potential risk at higher altitudes snow. The trails can be slippery, posing life risks. Make sure you follow the guidelines of the tour guide and the tour operating company. With the right safety measures, you will enjoy the snow hiking in Nepal, the best way you can.
