Considering the fact most people want to see snow on their first winter Himalayan trek, the end of December would be an ideal and safe time to go for it. I say safe because later in peak winters, drastic weather conditions might not permit you to scale till the summit. It’s not impossible but depends on everyday weather. We have a saying here in the mountains that ‘you go as far as the mountain lets you’ and I have experienced it to be inexplicably true. I have personally led 11 batches in the winter season of 2019-20 (mid-November to February first week)-ADITYA BODKE- IndiaHikes Trek Leader, and we were able to reach the summit in nine of the batches. Of course, it’s not all about the summit when you embark upon a trek, it’s so much more. The sheer peace and tranquility that the mountains offer is a priceless reward in itself.
Physical Fitness - I understand that the very fact that you were finally able to book the trek in spite of uncertain leaves and friends backing out at the eleventh hour is an achievement in itself. But that does not mean your work is done. Even though we rate the trek as easy-moderate, you require a decent level of physical fitness to be able to enjoy the trek. I’ll talk more about it a little later.
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Mental Preparedness - I would say this is even more important than the former, especially because it is the winter season. Most of us are not accustomed to that kind of freezing cold temperatures in our regular lives. Being mentally prepared gives you an edge over anything that is to come before you.It is always mind over body.
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Break in your shoes - This might not seem to be a big one but will make a huge difference on the trek. It is suggested that you start wearing your trekking shoes at least a month before going to the mountains. This will ensure that you are comfortable in the shoes (they tend to be a little heavier than usual) and the shoes can take the shape of your feet. If you skip this part, there are high chances of you getting blisters on the trek. I have seen a lot of trekkers get blisters on their very first day which can compromise the experience to come.