People of India think winter is just about getting inside the blanket and having hot tea or coffee. It is also enjoyable to enjoy the snow, see the landscapes, and create memories in the lands filled with snow. India is a home of snow-capped mountains and places that can compete with international destinations, be it …
Top Snow Destinations in India to Visit This Winter
People of India think winter is just about getting inside the blanket and having hot tea or coffee. It is also enjoyable to enjoy the snow, see the landscapes, and create memories in the lands filled with snow. India is a home of snow-capped mountains and places that can compete with international destinations, be it the Himalayan mountains or the beautiful hill stations. Whether you are an adventure person, a honeymoon couple, or simply someone who wants to visit the mountains, these places will provide you with all the experiences, and you will love them with them places, and you will again fall in love with winter.
1. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
When it comes to a destination covered with snow in India, then Gulmarg has always been at the top list. This place becomes a heaven and paradise during the times of winter; this place gives you a magical view of the most famous range, which is Pir Panjal.
Highlights:
- Gulmarg Gondola– This place is known for it’s highest cable cars, which will take you to over 13,000 feet high.
- Skiing and Snowboarding– This place is best known for its skiing and snowboarding, and is perfect for both beginners and pros, and you will be provided with all the rental equipment required for the activity.
- Frozen Lakes and Pine Forest– This place is best known for its view so its best for taking photographs and for relaxing walks.
Time: The best time you visit this place is during the time of late December to February, as you can experience thick snow covering all over.
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
This place is known as the Winter Wonderland. Manali has always been in the top list for those who love both adventure and relaxation. This place is known for its pine forest, mountain peaks, and apple orchards and making it a dream destination for travellers.
Highlights:
- Solang Valley– Here you must try different adventures like skiing, snowboarding, and others.
- Rohtang Pass– This place provides you with scenic beauty in snow snow-covered place. You must check the accessibility of the area during the winter.
- Old Manali– You will experience some cafes which will give you cozy vibes and homestay where you will experience hospitality. You will also get to see the beautiful winter scenes.
Time: The best time to visit this place is during the time span of December to February if you want to experience continuous snowfall.
3. Auli, Uttarakhand
This place is known for skiing, along with the Himalayan view. This place has some breathtaking views and resorts. Nanda Devi and Trishul are the most breathtaking peaks. This place is an underrated gem for all the snow lovers.
Highlights:
- Auli Ropeway– This place is known for it’s longest cable car ride, which offers you a mesmerizing view of the place.
- Ski Slopes– If you are a beginner and want to try ski slopping then this is the best place to come to as it offers you with professional instructors and equipment.
- Trekking Trails– You explore the Gorson Bugyal or can trek to different passes like the Kuari Pass.
Time: You can visit during the late December to early March.
4. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is a destination where you can find snow in every part and corner of the scene. The snowy backdrops in this place make this place more magical and worthy.
Highlight:
- Tawang Monastery– This place is the largest and one of the most spiritual hub of India.
- Sela Pass– This place is covered with snow and it’s all over the pass and you will have breathtaking views while travelling.
- Frozen Lakes– Lakes like the Madhuri Lake and Pangateng Tso are quite mesmerizing during the time of winter.
Time: November to February is the best time to come down to this place.
5. Shimla and Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla has always been the dream destination during the winters. But there is a place which is known as the sibling of Shimla, often steals the show with some of the snow activities.
Highlights:
- Ice Skating in Shimla– This is Asia’s one and only natural ice-skating ring.
- Skiing in Kufri– This place has great slopes for the beginners to start skiing.
- Mall Road and Ridge– You can enjoy the winter shopping in the mall road along with the local foods filled with flavour.
Time: Best time to come to this place is during the time of December to February.
6. Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir
This place is known for its winter retreat, which gives you peace. This place has not got the limelight it deserved as it was always shadowed by Gulmarg, but Pahalgam also offers you with winter experience and a view that too, with fewer crowds. This is the spot where people come for peace and calmness.
Highlight:
- Snow Trekking– This trek will take you the valleys of Aru and Betaab.
- Frozen River Views– This river gives you a magical view specially during the time of January.
- Horse Riding in Snow– You would not have never heard of horse riding in snow, this would give you an unique experience.
Time: The best time to come to this place is during the time of late December and early March.
7. Lachung, Sikkim
This place is known as the gateway to Yumthang Valley. During the time of winter, this village looks like a fairy tale with snow all over the village. Yumthang Valley is at the top of the list for snow lovers.
Highlights:
- Yumthang Valley– This place is known as the “Valley of Flowers”, but during the time of winters this place turns into a blanket of snow.
- Hot Springs– There are hot springs available, which give you a perfect amount of warmth, as there you will experience cold all around it.
- Scenic Drives– You will find mountains covered with snow which will lead you the zero point.
Time: The time you can visit to this place is during the time span of December to February.
8. Dalhousie and Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
This place is known as the Mini Switzerland of India. The colonial beauty of Dalhousie blends with the pine forest covered with snow, which gives the travellers a beautiful experience. The meadows that get covered with the snow truly give you the reasons why this place is nicknamed “Mini Switzerland”.
Highlights:
- Snow walk– You can take the walk through the pine and deodar forests which are covered with snow all over.
- Khajjiar Lake– This lake is a frozen beauty, which gives you magical view.
- Colonial Architecture– You will find churches of the colonial period, especially the St. John’s Church which looks stunning covered with snow.
Time: The time to visit this place is during the month of late December to February.
9. Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
Sonmarg, which means “Meadow of Gold”, during the time of winter, the place looks like a silver paradise. This is a spot in Kashmir that is known for taking pictures in the snow.
Highlights:
- Thajiwas Glacier– This place is available and accessible during the time of winter for trekking.
- Snow Camping– This place is for those people who are wanting and seeking for a great and unique winter adventure experience.
- Frozen River Views– This is a perfect spot for photographs.
Time: This place can be visited during the time of December to March.
10. Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh
This place is best known as an alternative to Shimla. Narkanda is the perfect choice for those who love snow, want to travel, but prefer to go to a place with less crowds. The slopes are the best for skiing and blending with the views of the Himalayas.
Highlight:
- Hatu Peak– You need to go on a trek through the snow to get a proper and full view of the place.
- Apple Orchards– This place gives a magical view when it is dusted with snow.
- Local Homestays– You will get cozy experience while staying in the local area and along with you will also experience the hospitality of the mountains.
Time: The perfect time to visit this place is during the time of December to February.
Adventure Activities to Try
- Skiing and Snowboarding- Places like Gulmarg, Auli, and others comes at the top for these activities and sports.
- Snow Trekking- You can try different treks like the Kedarnath trek, Dzongri trek and others.
- Snow Camping- There are some locations which provides best spot for snow camping such as Ladakh, Manali, and Sonmarg.
- Ice Skating- Shimla provides an open space or area for snow activities.
Travel Tips
- Pack Smart- Always carry a thermal wear, gloves which are waterproof, snow boots for walking on the snow.
- Stay Hydrated- The cold weather of the places might dehydrate you, so always be hydrated.
- Check Accessibility- Always check the accessibility of the place before going to that place as they might be closed due to heavy snowfall.
- Book in Advance- Winter is a peak season when there are many travellers, so always book in advance for all the train and flight tickets.
India has all the options available for you, whether you want to experience trekking through the white landscapes, or just want to experience chai while watching the snow fall. So, just pack your bags this winter and explore any of the winter destinations in India.
Travelling in 2025 promises you with the accessibility to better roads that connect one place to another, flights that directly arrive, and an experience at the destination airport. It provides you with a more environmentally friendly tourism, with better infrastructure.
