Trekking In Nepal In January

Trekking in Nepal January offers a truly magical experience. This winter month, will reward you with crystal clear skies, breathtaking mountain views and snow covered landscapes. In addition, you can explore the peaceful and uncrowded winter trails, which will enhance your overall experience.

Nepal’s natural beauty lies in how its landscape shifts with the seasons. During winter, the tall mountains, deep valleys, glaciers and swift flowing rivers look ethereal under clear blue skies. January is considered to be mid winter when the freezing cold with dry weather spreads all over Nepal. The calm and serene atmosphere makes January trekking in Nepal both refreshing and deeply memorable.

The Himalayan ranges this month are covered with a dense layer of snow. Additionally, less crowded trails at this time provide you with an opportunity to immerse yourself in the pristine surroundings and deeply connect with nature.

This winter month presents a notable set of challenges. However, they are manageable with proper preparation. Trekking at this time is generally preferred by adventurous trekkers.

January is the coldest time of the year in Nepal. As altitude increases, the temperatures drop significantly. Also, higher sections are mostly snow covered. For this reason, trekking at this time requires extra caution, multiple warm layers of clothes and high quality gear.

Even in the popular routes like Poon Hill, Mardi Himal and Langtang Valley, there are fewer trekkers due to chilly weather. Still, this is an ideal month for people who like peaceful trails and fewer crowds.

The mountain views in January are amazing and the trails feel rejuvenating. The beautiful nature, snow capped peaks, and wintry surroundings make trekking in Nepal in January truly delightful and memorable.

Best Destinations for Trekking in Nepal in January

Poon Hill Trek 

Poon Hill Trekking  is one of the most popular destinations that is highly recommended for trekking in January. This mid winter month offers panoramic views of Fishtail Mountain and other scenic Annapurna massifs under clear winter skies.

Trekking through Ghorepani village during January is one of the delightful parts of the Poon Hill trek. The village is serene in Janurary will lift your mood for trekking as you will experience how villagers stay prepared for the chilling weather.

The clear skies offer mesmerizing views of the Annapurna range from Poon Hill, enhancing the sightseeing experience. While the weather is indeed chilly in January you can handle it by dressing in warm layers. There can be snow at the higher parts especially on the routes leading to Poon Hill. However, with the right gear, you can navigate safely.

The trek’s highest altitude is at 3,210 m, which is considered moderate. Also, this trek can be completed within 4 days. So, it can be undertaken even in wintertime with proper caution. This trek is ideal if you are looking for an easy trekking adventure in Nepal which can be completed successfully in January.

Suggested Poon Hill  Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive Kathmandu
Day 2- Drive or flight to Pokhara
Day 3- Trekking Ulleri
Day 4- Trekking Ghorepani
Day 5- poon hill – Tadapani
Day 6- Trek Ghandruk – Drive Pokhara
Day 7- Drive / Flight back Kathmandu
Day 8 – Departure from Nepal

Langtang Valley Trek   

Langtang Valley  is an ideal destination for trekking in Nepal in January. This month rewards you with mesmerizing views of snow capped mountains and clear cloud free skies. So, this destination is highly favoured for winter trekking.

In January, you will walk on the snow carpeted trails, crossing the ridges and through the beautiful forest of pine, oak, rhododendron, and juniper. You will be mesmerized by the scenic snowy landscapes, which trekkers often describe as the ‘winter wonderland.’ Moreover, from Kyangin Gompa, splendid views of Langtang Lirung, Yala Peak, Dorje Lakpa and many other nearby peaks can be seen.

The optional hike to Kyangjin Ri or Tsergo Ri, the highest point of Langtang Valley, offers 360-degree mountain views under bright skies that will keep you spellbound. The dense snow on the higher section of the trails adds more beauty to this valley.

However, navigating narrow footpaths between the rocks and boulders, taking steep ascents and descents, with snow over can be slippery and difficult to walk. So, having the right trekking gear is essential. In addition, support of the guide is also needed for smooth navigation of the winter trails.

During this time of the year, fewer trekkers partake in this adventure. So, you can see the wonderful winter landscapes of Langtang Valley and immerse yourself fully in a serene atmosphere. If you are searching for a scenic and manageable trekking destination for trekking in Nepal in January, then Langtang Valley is highly recommended.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1 – Kathmandu
Day 2-Drive to Shybru besi
Day 3 – Trekking lama hotel
Day 4 – trekking Langtang village
Day 5- trekking kyanjin village
Day 6- climb kynjin ri sunrise back lama hotel
Day 7-  Back to Shybru besi
Day 8 – Drive back Kathmandu

Mardi Himal Trek 

The Mardi Himal trek is the least explored, with the untouched beauty among all the trekking trails of the Annapurna region. However, it stands out as one of the best trekking destinations for January trekking Nepal. The duration of the trek is short with manageable altitude, making it accessible during January. The highest altitude of this trek is 4500 m.

The average daily temperature of this region in January ranges between 0 and 5 degrees Celsius while the night temperature drops significantly to minus degrees. This trail of this trek covers the major portion of the Annapurna region, providing an exclusive chance for you to witness its beauty during the winter season.

Moreover, snow covers several high altitude sections in January and you have to make your way, navigating such paths with proper caution. Once you reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp, the clouds can be seen below.

In addition, seeing astounding vistas like Annapurna I (8,091m/ 26538 ft), Annapurna South (7,219m/ 23,680 ft), Machhapuchre (6,997m/ 22,950 ft), Gangapurna Himal (7,454m/ 24,450 ft), and Mardi Himal (5,587m/ 18,328 ft) under clear winter skies from this base camp which is truly a fascinating experience.

Mardi Himal Trek has gained attention as a trekking spot that experts often suggest for trekking in Nepal in January because of exceptional mountain panoramas and manageable snowy trails.

Though weather can be cold during January, layering can help you stay warm and comfortable. With proper preparation and careful navigation you can complete the trek successfully during this coldest winter month and enjoy the scenic winter landscapes.

Itinerary Guideline

Day 1- Arrive Kathmandu
Day 2 – drive or fly Pokhara
Day 3 – Trekking Deurali
Day 4- Trekking Low camp
Day 5-  Trekking High camp
Day 6- View point – Sunrise back badal danda
Day 7 – Trek siding- drive Pokhara

Pikey Peak Trek 

The short Pikey Peak Trek offers you a spectacular view of the Himalayan ranges from one of the best vantage points in Nepal. During the frigid January, trails are more serene, offering you solitude amid the mountain ranges. Mt. Everest and other Himalayan ranges covered with fresh snow that are seen along the route reward you with awe inspring winter scenery.

In January, you will traverse the dense forest of rhododendrons and move along the rugged paths, experiencing the serenity of crisp winter air. Under the clear winter sky, you can watch a breathtaking view of the Himalayan panoramas. Moreover, visiting the monasteries along the trail, exploring the villages, and observing their way of life in the winter season makes your adventure more intriguing.

At this time, the lower Everest region is the coldest, and the higher section may get heavy snow showers. So, layering is a must. Also, you need to be careful when navigating snowy trails and wear sturdy footwear. But the rewards during winter are exceptional, the trails are serene, and the views of snowy lands and mountains are distinct and marvelous.

The highest altitude of the Pikey peak trek is at 4,065 m and it can be completed within a week. So, it is ideal for a winter trek. Navigating the trails of Pikey Peak in January is also manageable because of the moderate altitude. So, this trek is considered one of the best spots for trekking in Nepal in January.

  Pikey Peak Itinerary

Day 1- Kathmandu
Day 2- Drive to Dhap
Day 3 –  Trekking Pikey peak base camp
Day 4- Trekking to Jasmane Bhanjyang
Day 5 – Trekking  Junbesi
Day 6 – Treking Phaplu
Day 7 – Drive back Kathmandu

Everest Sunrise View Trek 

Everest sunrise view trek is one of the most popular destinations for trekking in Nepal in the winter of January. This scenic trek is designed to explore the cultural and natural beauty of the Khumbu region. This region is the coldest in January.

This month sees fewer crowds compared to the other trekking months. The day temperature averages around 6 degrees Celsius while the night temperature can drop to -15 degrees Celsius or more. While walking through tranquil trails in January you can feel calm atmosphere and fully immerse yourself in the scenic surroundings.

Furthermore, the enchanting views of Mt. Everest (8,848m), Amadablam (6,812m), Lhotse (8,516m), Nuptse (7,861m), and Thamserku (6,623m) and many others can be seen under crystal clear blue skies, which will enhance your sightseeing experience. Also, the frequent snowfalls turn the region into a winter wonderland, making your exploration more joyful.

While winter trails could demand more effort for navigation, it is completely manageable if you are dressed warmly, maintain proper hydration, and take proper caution. Opting for the Everest sunrise view trek in January rewards you with the scenic winter landscapes, clear skies and distinct mountain views. Thus, this destination stands among the most recommended destinations for trekking in Nepal in the winter month of January.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive Kathmandu
Day 2- Fly to Lukla  trekking to Phakding
Day 3 – Trekking Namche
Day 4 – Trekking to Khumjung vilage
Day 5 – trekking Tengboche monastery
Day 6 – Trek back  Monjo
Day 7 – Trek back Lukla
Day 8 – Fly back Kathmandu