The predominantly hot and tropical Indian climate may not make it the first country one would associate with snowfall. However, this diverse and vast country surprises travelers with its stunning snow-covered landscapes and winter wonderlands.
From the mighty Himalayas in the north to the enchanting Western Ghats in the south, India is home to several snowfall places that offer a truly magical experience. In this article, we will explore the famous snowfall places in India, where you can embrace the cold and witness the true beauty of winter.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly winter destinations in India, here are the best destinations:
Most Popular Places to Visit during Winters
Winter opens the door to some of the most magical travel experiences, from snow-covered mountains to cozy hill towns and festive cities. Whether you love adventure, nature, or simply relaxing by a warm fire, there are plenty of stunning destinations that come alive during the colder months. Here are some of the most popular places to visit this winter for an unforgettable getaway.
1. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir:
Located in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, Gulmarg is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its powdery snow and picturesque landscapes, it offers a range of activities like skiing, snowboarding, and gondola rides, making it one of the top winter destinations in India.
- Must visit: Apharwat Peak, Alpather Lake, Gulmarg Gondola
- Best time to visit: December to February
- Must try food: Rogan josh, Kashmiri pulao, Kashmiri kebabs
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh:
Situated in the Kullu Valley, Manali is a favorite among honeymooners and adventure seekers. It experiences heavy snowfall during winters, transforming the entire region into a snow-white paradise. Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley are must-visit spots for those looking to engage in snow activities like skiing and snowboarding.
- Must visit: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple
- Best time to visit: December to February
- Must try food: Siddu (a local bread), Momos, Thukpa (noodle soup)
3. Auli, Uttarakhand:
Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, Auli is known for its pristine slopes, making it the preferred destination for seasoned skiers. With stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, Auli offers an unforgettable snow experience. Apart from skiing, visitors can also enjoy cable car rides and snow trekking.
- Must-visit places: Auli Ski Resort, Trishul Peak, Chenab Lake, Narsingh Temple.
- Best time to visit: From November to March for skiing, and from April to June for pleasant weather.
- Must-try food: Local Garhwali cuisine like Chainsoo, Kafuli, Thechwani, and Roat.
4. Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir:
Translated as “Meadow of Gold,” Sonamarg is a captivating town known for its breathtaking snow-covered landscapes. It serves as a base camp for trekkers heading to the famous Amarnath Yatra. The picturesque Vishansar Lake is a popular attraction in Sonamarg, surrounded by snow-laden mountains, creating a captivating view.
- Must visit: Thajiwas Glacier, Gangabal Lake, Nilagrad River
- Best time to visit: December to February
- Must-try food: Yakhni (meat cooked in curd-based gravy), Kashmiri saffron rice, Tabak Maaz (fried lamb ribs)
5. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh:
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is a beautiful hill station that experiences heavy snowfall during the winter months. The city’s Victorian-era charm combined with snowy landscapes makes it a popular winter destination among domestic and international tourists. The Ridge, Mall Road, and Kufri are major attractions in Shimla.
- Must visit: Mall Road, Kufri, Jakhu Temple
- Best time to visit: December to February
- Must try food: Chha Gosht (lamb cooked in yogurt), Siddus, Madra
6. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh:
Tucked away in the Trans-Himalayan region, Spiti Valley is a remote and picturesque destination that receives snowfall for a significant part of the year. Often referred to as “Little Tibet,” it offers breathtaking vistas, and ancient monasteries, and allows visitors to witness the unique blend of Tibetan and Indian cultures.
- Must-visit places: Key Monastery, Chandratal Lake, Pin Valley National Park, Dhankar Monastery.
- The best time to visit is June to September.
- Must-try food: Local Himachali dishes like Siddu, Chha Gosht, Babru, Aktori.
7. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh:
Located in the northeastern part of India, Tawang is a remote yet awe-inspiring destination. It is home to the second-largest Buddhist monastery in the world, the Tawang Monastery. During winters, Tawang experiences heavy snowfall, creating a stunning contrast against the monastery’s golden hues. The snow-covered landscapes and frozen lakes make it a must-visit for travelers seeking tranquility.
- Must-visit places: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Madhuri Lake, Taktsang Gompa.
- The best time to visit is March to October.
- Must-try food: Local Arunachali dishes like Thukpa, Gyapa Khazi, Zan, and Apong (rice beer).
8. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand:
Situated at the base of the great Himalayan mountain range, Munsiyari is a hidden gem that offers awe-inspiring snow-laden vistas. It is the base for treks to Milam and Ralam Glaciers and offers spellbinding views of the Panchachuli Peaks. Munsiyari is perfect for those seeking serenity and to immerse themselves in the beauty of untouched Himalayan landscapes.
- Must-visit places: Khaliya Top, Birthi Falls, Maheshwari Kund, Nanda Devi Temple.
- Best time to visit: April to June and September to November.
- Must-try food: Local Kumaoni cuisine like Bhatt ke Dubke, Aloo ke Gutke, Ras, Gahat ki Dal.
9. Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand:
For those seeking a peaceful getaway, Dhanaulti is an ideal destination known for its tranquil ambiance and snow-covered slopes. Surrounded by dense forests and located amidst breathtaking views of the Garhwal Himalayas, Dhanaulti is perfect for leisurely walks in the snow and enjoying the scenic beauty.
- Must visit: Eco Park, Surkanda Devi Temple, Dashavatar Temple
- Best time to visit: December to February
- Must try food: Garhwal ka Fannah (a variety of lentils cooked with local spices), Kafuli, Chainsoo (black gram curry)
10. Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir:
Pahalgam, also known as the “Valley of Shepherds,” is a scenic town situated on the banks of the Lidder River. It offers enchanting views of snow-capped mountains, dense pine forests, and pristine rivers. Pahalgam experiences beautiful snowfall during winter, providing tourists with a stunning contrast between the snow-covered landscapes and the diverse flora and fauna.
- Must-visit places: Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Chandanwari, Kolahoi Glacier.
- The best time to visit is April to November.
- Must-try food: Local Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, Gushtaba, and Kahwah.
Also Read- Places In India that Glow in the Dark
Things to Pack
If you are planning to visit the best winter destinations in India, it would be helpful to pack the following items:
- Warm Clothing: Pack layers of warm clothing including thermal wear, sweaters, jackets, and coats to protect yourself from the cold weather.
- Winter Accessories: Don’t forget to pack essential winter accessories such as gloves, scarves, hats, and earmuffs to cover your head, ears, neck, and hands.
- Insulated Footwear: Carry sturdy, insulated snow boots or shoes to provide warmth and protect your feet from the cold and snow.
- Medications: If you have any specific medications or health conditions, make sure to pack them along with a basic first aid kit.
- Sun Protection: Carry sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, as the reflection of sunlight on the snow can be intense.
- Sunglasses: Pack a good pair of sunglasses to shield your eyes from the glare of the snow.
- Lip Balm and Moisturizer: The cold climate can cause dry skin and chapped lips, so carry a lip balm and moisturizer to keep your skin nourished and hydrated.
- Camera: Don’t forget to pack your camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful snow-covered landscapes and moments from your trip.
- Adequate Cash: Make sure to carry sufficient cash as ATMs might not be easily accessible in certain snowfall areas.
- Power Bank: In cold weather, electronic devices tend to drain their battery faster. Carry a power bank to ensure you can charge your devices on the go.
The Takeaway
India’s snowfall places provide a unique opportunity to witness the country’s diversity and natural beauty beyond stereotypes.
Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or simply seeking solace in a serene winter wonderland, these winter destinations in India are sure to captivate your senses and leave you with cherished memories of an unforgettable winter experience.
