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Embarking on a trek in Nepal during the festive seasons of Christmas and New Year offers a unique blend of cultural celebration and natural splendor. The Himalayan landscapes, combined with the joyous atmosphere of the holidays, create an unparalleled experience for adventurers.
Trekking in Nepal during December and January provides a distinctive opportunity to witness the Himalayas adorned in winter's embrace. The trails are less crowded, offering a serene environment to connect with nature and local traditions. The crisp mountain air and clear skies enhance the panoramic views, making it an ideal time for photography and reflection.
Mardi Himal Trek: A hidden gem offering stunning views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. The trail takes you through lush forests and alpine meadows, culminating in a breathtaking vantage point.
Annapurna Circuit Trek (ACT): A classic trek encircling the Annapurna massif, providing diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to arid high-altitude terrains.
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek: This trek leads you to the heart of the Annapurna sanctuary, surrounded by towering peaks. The journey combines cultural insights with natural beauty.
Khopra Ridge Trek: An off-the-beaten-path trek offering panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The trail passes through traditional villages and pristine landscapes.
Poon Hill Trek: Famous for its sunrise views over the Himalayas, this short trek is suitable for beginners and offers rich cultural experiences.
Panchase Trek: A less frequented trail providing insights into rural Nepali life and panoramic mountain vistas.
Siklis Kapuche Lake Trek: This trek leads to the pristine Kapuche Glacier Lake, the lowest altitude glacier lake in Nepal, offering unique natural beauty.
Pikey Peak Climbing: Renowned for its stunning sunrise and sunset views over Everest and surrounding peaks, this trek also offers cultural immersion with local communities.
Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek: A journey to the base of one of the most beautiful mountains in the world, offering close-up views of Everest and Lhotse.
Group Joining Treks: Ideal for solo travelers or those looking to meet new people. Group treks are cost-effective, with prices ranging from $500 to $1,200 per person for an 8–12 day package. These packages typically include permits, local transportation, accommodation, and meals. Fixed departure dates are available for the 2025/26 season, ensuring flexibility in planning.
Solo Treks: For those seeking a personalized experience, solo treks offer flexibility in itinerary and pace. While more expensive due to individual arrangements, the experience is tailored to personal preferences.
Couple Treks: Couples can enjoy private treks with customized services, providing a balance between group dynamics and personal space.
Permits: Depending on the trekking region, permits such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) or the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card are required. Costs vary by region and nationality.
Transportation: Travel to trailheads may involve domestic flights or road transport. Costs depend on the destination and mode of transport chosen.
French-Speaking Guides: For French-speaking trekkers, hiring a guide fluent in French enhances the experience. Rates vary based on expertise and demand.
Porters and Porter-Guides: Porters assist with carrying luggage, while porter-guides combine guiding and porter services. Hiring a porter or porter-guide supports the local economy and enriches the trekking experience.
Female Guides: Female trekkers may prefer female guides for cultural or personal reasons. Several agencies offer experienced female guides to ensure comfort and security.
Accommodation: Teahouses along the trails provide basic lodging facilities. While amenities are modest, they offer a cozy resting place after a day's trek.
Food: Meals typically include local staples such as rice, lentils, vegetables, and noodles. Some treks offer Western dishes, but availability decreases with altitude.
Drinking Water: It's advisable to carry water purification tablets or a filtration system, as bottled water can be expensive and environmentally taxing.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a concern when trekking at high altitudes. Preventative measures include gradual ascent, staying hydrated, and allowing for acclimatization days. Being aware of symptoms and responding promptly is crucial.
Mardi Himal Trek: Requires ACAP and TIMS permits.
Annapurna Circuit and ABC Treks: Both require ACAP and TIMS permits.
Khopra Ridge Trek: Requires ACAP and TIMS permits.
Poon Hill Trek: Requires ACAP and TIMS permits.
Panchase Trek: No special permits required.
Siklis Kapuche Lake Trek: Requires ACAP and TIMS permits.
Pikey Peak Climbing: Requires TIMS and Gaurish
Note: The person who likes doing thrilling adventure sports like Peak Climbing, Mountain Expedition in Nepal and Pilgrimage Tour is also available in this company so one can also enjoy these kinds of adventure sports too
Are you looking to spend your Christmas and New Year holidays far from the usual hustle and bustle of city lights and parties? This year, escape into the lap of the Himalayas with a Christmas trek in Nepal itinerary curated specially for the festive season. Whether you're seeking peace in the mountains or excitement in snowy landscapes, Christmas and New Year Trekking in Nepal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
From Annapurna in December to Nepal trekking December highlights, this guide answers everything you need to know about planning the best Christmas trek in Nepal, including trek costs, permits, food, guides, celebrations, and booking information for Christmas and New Year 2026/27.
December and January are underrated months for trekking in Nepal. But they offer something magical – clear skies, snow-covered peaks, uncrowded trails, and a unique cultural experience as Nepali communities and international travelers come together to celebrate.
Magical Mountain Views: Winter brings crystal-clear skies, perfect for photography.
Fewer Crowds: Unlike the autumn season, trails are peaceful and serene.
Cultural Celebrations: Learn how Christmas and New Year are celebrated in the Himalayas.
Affordable Packages: Off-season rates make it budget-friendly.
Unique Adventure for Families and Groups: A bonding journey unlike any holiday you've had before.
While Nepal is a Hindu-majority country, Christmas and New Year are widely celebrated, especially in cities and tourist hubs like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Namche Bazaar. Christian communities and expats organize masses and parties. Tea houses in popular trekking regions decorate with tinsel, trees, and even organize Christmas feasts!
Christmas Day: December 25
New Year’s Eve: December 31
New Year’s Day: January 1
These holidays coincide with Nepal’s dry season, making it ideal for trekking.
Absolutely! Snow-covered trails, warm meals by the fireplace, cultural immersion, and spiritual solitude make it a worthwhile adventure. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, family, or group, a Christmas and New Year trek in Nepal is both meaningful and memorable.
Winter treks are about safety, accessibility, and warmth. The following routes are perfect for a winter wonderland experience.
Best for: Beginners to moderate trekkers
Highlights: Cozy tea houses, friendly locals, stunning mountain views
Popular Routes:
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Mardi Himal Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Circuit Winter Route
Trekking the Annapurna in December offers crisp air, fewer tourists, and unobstructed views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
Best for: Adventure lovers
Popular Routes:
Everest Panorama Trek
Everest Base Camp (Shortened version in winter)
Quieter, less commercialized, ideal for those seeking solitude and cultural exchange.
Duration: 4–6 days
Grade: Easy to moderate
Why Best: Short trek, suitable for family and group, panoramic sunrise over Annapurna
Duration: 6–8 days
Grade: Moderate
Why Best: Off-the-beaten path, peaceful winter routes, and dramatic ridge-line views
Duration: 7–9 days
Grade: Moderate
Why Best: Rich in Tamang culture, less crowded even during holidays
Modified Route: Up to Manang, skipping Thorong La Pass
Duration: 8–10 days
Why Best: Scenic drive options, safe altitudes, explore cultural villages
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Drive or fly to Pokhara
Day 3: Drive to Kande, trek to Forest Camp
Day 4: Trek to Low Camp
Day 5: Trek to High Camp
Day 6: Hike to Mardi Viewpoint for sunrise (Christmas Day!)
Day 7: Trek back to Forest Camp
Day 8: Return to Pokhara
Day 9: New Year Celebration in Lakeside Pokhara
Day 10: Return to Kathmandu and departure
Note: Customizable itineraries are available with Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks.
Trekking during the holiday season is surprisingly affordable, especially with Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks offering discounted group and family packages.
Ghorepani Poon Hill (5 days): USD 450–550
Mardi Himal Trek (7 days): USD 600–700
Langtang Trek (7–9 days): USD 650–750
Customized Short Trek: USD 1,800–2,200 total
Includes: Accommodation, food, permits, guide & porter, transportation, Christmas celebration dinner
Depending on the region, permits are required. Here's the breakdown:
TIMS Card: USD 20
ACAP Permit: USD 30
TIMS Card: USD 20
Langtang National Park Permit: USD 30
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Fee: USD 30
Sagarmatha National Park Permit: USD 30
Hiring a guide and porter ensures safety, navigation, and an enriching experience.
Guide: USD 25–30 per day
Porter: USD 20–25 per day
Cost may include their meals, lodging, and insurance. Tip is optional but appreciated during the festive season.
Nepal’s teahouses offer hearty meals to keep you warm during treks.
Dal Bhat (Rice & Lentil Soup)
Sherpa Stew
Tibetan Bread with Honey or Jam
Garlic Soup (good for altitude)
Noodles, Pasta, Fried Rice, Momos
Roast Chicken
Apple Pie
Wine or Local Raksi
Christmas Cake (in Pokhara/Kathmandu)
Tea with Cinnamon or Ginger for festive warmth
Celebrations are simple yet memorable:
Sing carols around the fire in tea houses
Exchange small gifts or cards
Share a feast with fellow trekkers and locals
Light candles or fairy lights in lodges
Enjoy bonfires in lower-altitude villages
Gift-giving is growing in popularity. While it’s not a traditional Nepali practice, in tourist areas:
Hotels & lodges may give chocolates, scarves, or ornaments
Trekkers often exchange simple gifts or notes
Local children may receive sweets or school supplies
Cold mornings and nights
Bright sunny days (10–15°C during daytime at lower elevations)
Snow likely above 3,000 meters
Ideal for Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, and Langtang
Warmer than January
Clearer trails and less snow
Best for Annapurna Base Camp and moderate circuits
Dress in Layers: Use moisture-wicking thermals, fleece, and down jackets.
Good Footwear: Insulated boots with grip are essential.
Use Trekking Poles: Snowy or icy paths can be slippery.
Hydrate Well: Winter air is dry; drink lots of fluids.
Start Early: Sun sets early in winter (around 5 PM).
Stay in Lower Altitudes: Avoid high passes unless experienced and fully equipped.
Make your Christmas and New Year 2026/27 unforgettable with Himalayan Adventure International Treks – Nepal’s trusted adventure partner.
✅ Decades of Experience
✅ Trained Guides & Porters
✅ Custom Family & Group Packages
✅ Responsible Tourism
✅ Holiday-Themed Trekking Itineraries
✅ Local Festive Experience
🌟 Early booking for 2026/27 is open now! 🌟
Reserve your spot before September 2026 and get up to 10% discount on family & group treks!
Whether you’re watching the sun rise over snow-covered peaks on Christmas morning or celebrating New Year with Sherpa songs in a warm mountain lodge, trekking in Nepal during Christmas and New Year offers an unmatched experience of nature, culture, and joy.
From Annapurna Circuit winter adventures to cozy family holidays in Langtang, there's a perfect trail for everyone. So don’t just dream it—book your Christmas and New Year trek with Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks and make memories that will warm your heart forever.
Contact Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks Today
📞 WhatsApp/Viber: +977-9851032316
🌐 Website: www.himalayanadventureintl.com
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Adventure, Celebration, and the Himalayas await you this Christmas and New Year! 🎄🎉🏔️
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