I’m Rujan, a licensed trekking guide living in Kathmandu. Many visitors in winter ask where they can touch snow without climbing to 5,000 m. Snow in Nepal’s hills comes and goes, so nothing is certain, but these are the likeliest places from late December to February.
Close to Kathmandu
- Kalinchowk, about 3,842 m, in Dolakha: a day by road to Kuri, then one or two hours on foot to the temple. The most reliable snow near Kathmandu, and crowded on winter weekends.
- The valley rim, Phulchoki, Shivapuri and Chandragiri: a light dusting on a few winter days, gone by noon.
Near Pokhara
- Ghorepani and Poon Hill, about 3,210 m: snow on some winter days, with clear views. See the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek.
- Mardi Himal: snow on the upper ridge from December, which makes the high camp hard; sometimes closed.
A little further
- Gosainkunda, about 4,380 m: often snowy and the lake frozen; some lodges close. A serious winter walk.
- Langtang, Kyanjin Gompa at about 3,870 m: cold, quiet, and snow on many winter days. See the Langtang Valley trek.
What to bring
- Waterproof boots with good grip, and light microspikes.
- Warm gloves, a hat and a down jacket.
- A spare day: snow can close roads and trails.
See trekking in winter and staying warm at night.
If you are not sure which suits you, write to me and tell me what you hope for. I will say honestly.
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Sources
- Wikipedia: Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple en.wikipedia.org
