Winters in India are magical and bring much relief to the people who had to beat the heat of scorching summers. One of the best things about winters is snowfall, which everyone loves, especially kids. But owing to the Indian terrain, it is not everywhere you would get to experience snowfall in India. Fortunately there are lots of places where you can experience the magic of snow. Most of these places lie in the northern belt of the country, and are most sought destinations for holidays.
In this blog we are going to list some of the best places in India where you can witness snowfall. Yes make some space in your holiday itinerary and head on to these beautiful locations. You can always thank us later for an experience of a lifetime.
1 – Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
Sonmarg is also called Meadow of Gold. It lies on the silk road that connects China and India. In winters Sonmarg gets covered under the snow. The place is known for fishing and hiking. The Gadsar lake, Vishansar lake here are popular for its snow trout, and brown trout.
Sonmarg also has avenues for winter sports, like snowboarding and skiing. With the background of alpine meadows this place offers some of the best views in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. You can also chose to view the Machoi Glacier a nearby attraction.
It can be accessed from Srinagar in a 2 hour drive. The best time to visit is between February and May.
2 – Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
Gulmarg is the best skiing destination in India. It also has the India’s highest and longest cable car ride, known as Gulmarg Gondola. It is located in the Pir Panjal Range of Himalayas. It has been a favorite destination for couple getaways. The meaning of Gulmarg is meadow of flowers.
Gulmarg is also home to a igloo café and igloo restaurant which is a popular tourist attraction. The place is popular for its Gulmarg winter games. It also has the world’s highest golf course and also organizes competition for golfing every year.
Gulmarg is accessible both from Jammu and Srinagar. Best time to visit Gulmarg is in between October and February.
3 – Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli is home to snow covered Himalayan ranges, apple orchards, and a great winter sports scene. It offers beautiful views of Nanda Devi , the second tallest mountain peak in India. It also is home to one of the longest cable car rides that start from Joshimath.
It also houses an artificial lake named Gorson. It is also believed that Auli is home to the most number of flower species found anywhere in the world. Auli is also known to be India’s first skiing destination. Some of the popular touristy spots nearby are Badrinath, Kuari Pass, and Vishnu Prayag.
Auli is well accessible from Dehradun and Rishikesh. Best time to visit Auli is between January and February.
4 – Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Unarguably Manali is the most popular hill station in India. It is surrounded by snow covered peaks. It is home to some of the many popular touristy sites which include Rohtang Pass which is covered in snow all year. There is Solang Valley where you can enjoy some winter adventure sports.
When in the town, there is no place better to stroll than Mall Road on a snowy day. It is also a gateway to the even more beautiful Spiti valley. Many locals refer Manali to Valley of Gods. Another popular destination Kullu is just by the side of Manali on the banks of River Beas.
Manali can be accessed easily from Chandigarh. Best time to visit is November to February.
5 – Leh, Ladakh
Ladakh is typically a cold and arid. In winters the night temperatures often fall far below zero degrees. It is a trekking paradise and we have all heard about the great biking tours to Ladakh. Yes biking and other adventure sports seekers can also resort to this place.
Nubra valley, Khardung La and Zanskar river valley are must visit places here. It is also known for its beautiful and pristine Buddhist Monasteries in the region, which can be resorted to if you are seeking a peaceful experience. Tibetan food here is a must try.
Leh can be accessed via road through both Manali and Srinagar. The best time to visit Leh is in between December and February.
6 – Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
Munisyari is also known as Little Kashmir because of its breathtaking Himalayan landscape. The nearby glaciers, lakes and mountain peaks can also enrich your itinerary while here. Geographically it is located in the Kumaon Hills. The best part is that this destination is still not crowded with tourists.
In local language Munsiyari means place of snow. It is a paradise for mountaineers and the high altitude trekkers. You can also chose to see the gorgeous Himalayan glaciers named Milam, Namik and Ralam Glaciers. It also houses a lichen park and is a perfect place for bird watching.
It can be accessed easily from Kathgodam. The best time to visit here is between December and February.
7 – Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla is one of the most popular Hill stations of the North and a rather more commercialized one. Snowfall of Shimla and Kufri are very popular. Walking on the ridge in Shimla while the snow falls can be some of the most beautiful moments. It is surrounded by lush greenery which adds beauty to it.
Green Valley in Shimla is one of the popular places that will awaken the photographer inside you. While snowfall one must definitely visit Kufri for winter adventure sports. It is also popular for shopping the winter wears, woolen clothes. There are lot of touristy spots here like Mall Road, Jakhoo, Christ Church.
It can be easily accessed from Chandigarh. The best time to visit is between December to February.
8 – Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is lesser known beauty of North East India. It is one of the best places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh and also to see snowfall. In winters Tawang is completely covered in snow. It is also known to have many beautiful Buddhist monasteries that fit perfect in the white background.
It is situated at an altitude of 3000 meters. The name Tawang translates into Chosen by Horse. The Tibetan culture here is worth exploring. Some of the must visit places here are Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Bumla, PTSO Lake, Zemithang.
It can be accessed from Itanagar. The best time to visit here is December to February.
9 – Patnitop, Jammu and Kashmir
Patnitop is known for its snow covered areas, apple orchards, and adventure sports. The pure white snow of Patnitop can make a day for any traveler. The abundant of snow here makes it perfect for adventure sports like snowboarding, though you can also enjoy Paragliding here.
Winters here are bone chilling but still travelers from all around country visit this place to admire its beauty. Must try is the Patnitop ropeway. Some of the must visit places here are Sanasar Lake, Gourikund, Golf Course of Sanasar, and rock climbing at Kud.
It can be easily accessed from Udhampur. The best time to visit is January to February.
10 – Zuluk, Sikkim
Zuluk is located in the eastern Sikkim, and offers some of the best views of the Eastern Himalayas. You can also enjoy the views of Kanchenjunga from here. It is located in the Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary, and you can easily spot Himalayan Bears, red panda, deer, and lots of wildlife.
Historically it has been a transit point in the silk route. The surrounding areas have many lakes, temples and forests that can captivate the interest of any seasoned traveler. It is located at an altitude of around 9400 feet, and it often witnesses rainfall, and even heavy showers.
It is easily accessible from Siliguri. The best time to visit is December to February.
Snowfall is cold but beautiful!
