India is known for its varied landscapes and weather, which experience a stunning change in the winter. While the majority of the country experiences warm, sunny winter days, several locations are blanketed in deep snow. From the majestic Himalayan peaks in the north to the lesser-known treasures concealed in the southern regions of the country, India provides a vast array of settings where one may enjoy the pure magic of snow throughout the winter.
These are the best places in India to view the snow, and they ensure a breathtaking winter wonderland experience regardless of whether you’re an experienced explorer looking for thrilling snow sports or simply yearning for a quiet, snowy vacation.
Top Places to Explore in India for Snow
Here is a list of some places that can make a wonderful vacation in the winter, especially if you are looking forward to enjoying some snow:
1. Manali
If you are looking for guaranteed snowfall, you should plan your vacation in Manali. Beginning in November, the city begins to experience snowfall, and hence, it is one of the most popular tourist places. You can enjoy snowfall for most of the winter, with January being the peak season for all snow lovers.
While in Manali, try visiting Rohtang Pass, which experiences heavy snowfall. You can enjoy a number of winter activities, such as skiing, sled rides, and mountain biking. The twin peaks of Geypan and other nearby peaks, glaciers, Chandra River, and Lahaul Valley can all be seen while driving across Rohtang Pass. Besides, you can also visit Solang Valley, where you can go skiing on snow and paragliding.
2. Ladakh
Ladakh, sometimes known as the “Land of High Passes,” is a captivating area in the far north of India. Although Ladakh is well known for its desolate surroundings and high-altitude desert, it also provides an alluring snowfall experience in the winter. In Ladakh, the best period to see snowfall is from late November to early March.
Remember to go on the Chadar Trek in Ladakh, which entails walking across the freezing Zanskar lake. Moreover, Ladakh is famous for several high-altitude lakes, such as Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri, which freeze during the winter. Visiting these frozen lakes and witnessing their ethereal beauty is an otherworldly experience.
3. Shimla
Shimla, the Queen of Hills, is a popular tourist destination for local and international tourists. It is one of the tourist places that is close to the national capital, making it easier for people to reach there. Between December and February, Shimla frequently receives snowfall, with January being the most popular month for skiers.
During the snowy season, Shimla provides opportunities for winter sports, including skiing and ice skating. A well-known location where you may enjoy ice skating is the Shimla Ice Skating Rink. Moreover, you can visit places like Kufri, Narkanda, and Mashobra to enjoy the snowy vistas and engage in activities like snowball fights and making snowmen.
4. Gulmarg
Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir is known as the best place to experience heavy snowfall in India during the winter. From December to the beginning of March, this charming hill town, which is encircled by the breathtaking Pir Panjal mountain range, is transformed into a winter wonderland.
It is also a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. The Gulmarg Ski Resort is one of the best places in India for skiing and snowboarding. Both novice and expert skiers will find it to be a great location because of the snow and well-kept slopes. If you are visiting Gulmarg, you cannot miss the Gondola ride, one of the highest cable cars in the world, which provides stunning panoramic views of the snow-covered landscape.
5. Yumthang Valley
It is one of the most beautiful places in India that receives heavy snowfall all year round. It is located in Sikkim and is also known as the Flower Valley, located at a height of 2750 meters. A 23 km drive from Yumthang Valley, you can reach Zero Point at an altitude of 15,000 feet, where the road ends, and you can witness snow-clad mountains. You will always get snow over here, and it is a beautiful place to enjoy some Sikkim delicacies. It is a beautiful place to visit, with fewer tourists and more natural beauty to see.
6. Sonmarg
Sonamarg’s winters are known for their chilly conditions and below-freezing temperatures. Sonamarg transforms into a tourist haven during these months, allowing one to experience the true magnificence of the winter season there. You must travel to Sonamarg in the early winter if you wish to participate in winter sports like skiing. Adventure sports like river rafting and mountain climbing are best enjoyed in October.
The well-known Losar celebration, which is observed with tremendous grandeur, is welcomed in December. The beautifully ornamented Gompas are mesmerizing to view. Sonamarg adopts a happy atmosphere as a result of the festivities and celebrations. The entire valley appears charming and alive by February.
7. Auli
The gorgeous hill town of Auli, which is situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is known for its pure landscapes and provides an amazing snowfall experience throughout the winter. Both lovers of the snow and those looking for adventure will find paradise at this breathtaking location.
Auli receives heavy snowfall from December to February and is known as the “Skiing capital of India.” Although you can visit Auli any time of the year, during winter, it is a mini-fairyland with snow-covered mountains all around. You should definitely visit the Auli artificial lake in Chenab during snowfall. It is a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you amazed at its beauty.
8. Lambasingi
Have you ever heard of snowfall in the southern part of India? If not, then you should visit Lambasingi, a hidden gem in Andhra Pradesh. The only place in the southern region that experiences snowfall is Lambasingi, which has lovely valleys and a cool climate. This misty hill in the Chintapalli neighborhood of Visakhapatnam is positioned at a height of 1000 meters above sea level and is frequently referred to as the Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh.
The temperature goes as low as -2 °C during the winter months. The area is covered in an ethereal white mist that drifts and swirls with the wind throughout the year. From November to January, when the temperature dips below zero degrees Celsius, there are sporadic snowfalls. You should visit the famous Kothapalli waterfall, which is flooded with tourists and is a popular picnic spot.
9. Patnitop
In Jammu and Kashmir Udhampur district, the picturesque hill town of Patnitop is a lesser-known yet lovely place to go during the winter to see snowfall. Snowfall frequently occurs at Patnitop from December to February. During this time, a layer of snow covers the town and its surroundings, resulting in a tranquil winter scene.
Another lovely area nearby, Sanasar, is well-known for receiving snowfall in the winter. It’s only a short drive from Patnitop and provides more chances for winter activities and scenery covered in snow. Located about 14 kilometers from Patnitop, Nathatop is also a well-liked tourist destination. It provides breathtaking views of the valleys and mountains covered with snow. Here, you may also enjoy various sports like horseback riding and paragliding.
Wrapping Up
Winter brings up a special spectacle in the enormous tapestry of India, where various landscapes and cultures coexist peacefully. The country dons a coat of snow that enchants from the towering Himalayas in the north to the pure valleys in the south. India’s winter vacation spots provide a variety of experiences that are as varied as the country itself, whether you’re slicing over the powdery slopes of Auli, taking in Shimla’s magical snowfall, or immersing yourself in the winter wonderland of Gulmarg.
Are you planning your next trip? Paytm Travel has got your back! Paytm provides great deals on flights, bus, and train tickets. Book your flight to one of these destinations today and enjoy the best price available online.
