Snowfall in India - Snow Places in India

Snow season: November - April

Sonamarg, known as "The Meadow of Gold," transforms into a winter wonderland with glaciers, frozen lakes, and endless snowfields stretching to the horizon. This snowy paradise is among the best destinations to witness snowfall in India, especially for mountain enthusiasts. Peak winter covers Sonamarg in a stunning white blanket, with snow occasionally lingering into April, while much of the country welcomes warmer weather. It’s also an ideal spot for trekking and river rafting, and a visit to Thajiwas Glacier is a must in summer. Snowfall in Kashmir is truly mesmerizing!

Snow season: October - December

Yumthang is known for its nearly year-round snowfall, making it one of the best destinations for snow in India. However, heavy snowfall often causes road closures, so it’s essential to check for accessibility before planning a visit. If you’re traveling during winter, be prepared for extremely harsh weather conditions. While the journey may be challenging, the breathtaking views make it well worth the effort. Snow lovers should avoid visiting during the monsoon season when melting snow and heavy rains are common.

Snow season: October - March for Manali; October - December if you are planning to visit Rohtang as well.

Manali, a popular hill station in the scenic state of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the best destinations to experience snowfall in India. Nestled amidst towering Himalayan peaks and lush valleys, it is often visited alongside the famous Rohtang Pass, making them together one of the top snow-filled places in India. Solang Valley is a must-visit for its breathtaking landscapes and thrilling winter activities, such as skiing, mountaineering, and trekking. However, keep in mind that Rohtang Pass frequently faces road closures and heavy traffic, especially from January to April, and should also be avoided during the monsoon season.

Snow season: December - early March

Gulmarg is renowned as one of the top destinations for snowfall and winter sports in India. Located in Jammu and Kashmir, it is a premier hill station in North India, drawing thousands of tourists with its scenic beauty and close proximity to Srinagar. While Gulmarg is captivating in summer, it truly comes alive in winter, offering exciting adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding, the famous Gondola cable car ride, and trekking. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of India’s tallest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga, and Gulmarg also serves as a base camp for mountaineers heading to Nanga Parbat and other peaks in the Pir Panjal Range.

Snow season: October - February

With its lakes, viewpoints, and charming tourist spots, Nainital is an ideal destination for experiencing snowfall in India without enduring the extreme cold of northern regions. Known as the 'Lake District of India' due to its abundant lakes and natural beauty, Nainital offers a picturesque winter escape. One of the best spots to witness snowfall in Nainital is Snow View Point, accessible by a scenic ropeway ride. Despite its popularity and commercialization, the enchanting snowfall and winter charm of Nainital make it a worthwhile experience.

Snow season: January to February for the trek. Leh-Manali highway is shut beyond September, otherwise.

While Leh is often inaccessible during the peak of winter due to harsh conditions, the Chadar Trek offers a truly unique experience that every seasoned traveler and trekker dreams of. This challenging 9-day journey across the frozen Zanskar River starts in January and runs through February, and sometimes even into March, with several groups and organizations organizing treks. However, a word of caution—this trek is not for beginners and is best suited for experienced trekkers. For those who seek to witness the most breathtaking snowfall in India, the Chadar Trek promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Another formidable option in the region is the Stok Kangri Trek, which rivals Chadar in its level of challenge and adventure.

Snow season: January - March

With slopes dotted with ski resorts and a calendar filled with skiing championships and festivals, Auli is a top destination for snowfall in India. Known for its pristine, snow-covered slopes perfect for skiing, Auli ranks among the best places in India to experience snow. Originally an offbeat hill station, it has now gained popularity for its winter sports and stunning views. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of towering Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, and Kamet. Nearby, Joshimath—a place of great religious significance for Hindus—is also worth exploring during a trip to Auli, making it one of India’s best destinations to experience snowfall and breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

Snow season: December - March

Located in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, Patnitop is a hill resort nestled in the Shiwalik range of the Himalayas. Famous for its picturesque natural surroundings, which include lush pine and deodar forests and the serene Chenab River, this quaint hamlet at the foot of the Kashmir Valley is considered one of the most peaceful snowfall destinations in India. The winter season transforms Patnitop into a winter wonderland, offering expansive snow-covered landscapes ideal for snowboarding, skiing, and other snow activities. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like Batote, a small hill station, and surrounding areas. If you're planning to visit specifically for paragliding, it’s advisable to check the availability of paragliding options in advance.

Snow season: October - December

Literally translating to 'Lake of Snow,' Hemkund Sahib and the surrounding valley remain closed from December to May. However, a brief window between October and early December is ideal for experiencing snowfall in Hemkund and the valley. Located at an altitude of 4,600 meters above sea level, the Gurudwara here is dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Guru of the Sikhs. The harsh conditions make reaching the location a challenging feat, but the experience is truly remarkable. It is advisable to always check with official or local authorities before planning a visit, as the dates for accessibility can vary and are subject to change.

Snow season: December - January

Nestled not far from the famous hill station of Shimla, Narkanda is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing experience with skiing, a charming hill station ambiance, and stunning views. This picturesque snow destination in India offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas, surrounded by lush forests and idyllic apple orchards. Thanedar, located about 17 km from Narkanda, is renowned for its exceptional apple orchards. Winter is the best season to visit, as the thick blanket of snow creates prime conditions for skiing and other snow activities, while the nearby Jalori Pass adds to the scenic allure.

Snow season: September to October

The Roopkund Trek is a mysterious and unique adventure in the higher Himalayas, offering an 8-9 day journey to the glacial Roopkund Lake in the Garhwal Himalayas. This stunning winter trek provides a challenging experience in multiple ways, with the lake remaining frozen throughout the year. The lake is surrounded by an eerie atmosphere, as numerous human skeletons have been discovered near its shores, adding to the mystery. While the trek is a fantastic experience for snowfall enthusiasts, it can also be undertaken in summer, though the snow-covered landscape is a highlight for those seeking winter adventure.

Snow season: December - January

A favorite destination for all seasons, Shimla is especially magical in winter thanks to its intermittent snowfall and snow-covered landscapes. One of the most popular and commercially vibrant hill stations in North India, Shimla is a top choice for snow lovers and winter sports enthusiasts. Once the summer capital of British India, the town is rich in Colonial-era architecture that adds to its charm. Nearby places like Kasauli, Mashobra, and Chail are also worth visiting, offering additional opportunities for winter exploration. Snowfall in Shimla guarantees a beautiful winter experience, with pleasant weather and breathtaking snowy vistas that will never disappoint.

Snow season: Late December - Early February.

Munsiyari, a charming town nestled at the base of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and pristine natural beauty. Often referred to as 'Little Kashmir' due to its enchanting scenery, the town’s name literally translates to "A place with snow." While not yet a major tourist hotspot, Munsiyari is gradually emerging as a popular destination, particularly for snowfall enthusiasts. Key attractions like Thamari Kund, Darkot, and Madkot offer unique experiences, with Madkot being famous for its rejuvenating hot water springs, a welcome respite during the cold winter months when snow blankets the region. Munsiyari is also gaining popularity among mountaineers and trekkers who use it as a base camp for their adventurous expeditions.

Snow season: November - February

This charming hill station in Himachal Pradesh has been famous since the Colonial era, when it served as a summer retreat for British bureaucrats. As one of the top hill stations in Himachal, Dalhousie, along with Khajjiar, is an ideal destination for those seeking snowfall in India. Although the winters are extremely harsh due to the frigid temperatures, it is during this time that the region experiences the heaviest snowfall, attracting tourists who come to enjoy the snow and take advantage of attractive discounts on travel packages. The snowfall in Dalhousie during the winter season is truly breathtaking.

Snow season: December - February

Known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning mountain views, and natural scenic beauty, Almora is a hill station in Uttarakhand that attracts tourists from around the world. The town also holds Colonial significance, adding to its charm. Its picturesque locales and panoramic vistas of the Himalayas draw thousands of visitors each year. Nearby hill stations like Ranikhet and Kausani also offer breathtaking mountain views. Winters in Almora can be quite chilly, but the snowfall here makes it a must-visit destination for snow lovers. Be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes if you plan to visit during the peak winter season to experience snowfall in Uttarakhand!

Snow season: December - February

Widely known as the 'Switzerland of Sikkim,' Katao is a charming hill station located about 144 km from Gangtok. Although it's an offbeat destination, visitors to Gangtok and Lachung can easily plan a day trip here. The picturesque scenery offers breathtaking views of the mountains, and during winter, Katao experiences abundant snowfall, transforming the area into a winter wonderland. However, it is important to note that Katao is not part of standard Gangtok tour packages, and an army permit is required to visit this location.

Snow season: December - January

Tawang, a hidden gem in the North-east, is the perfect destination for those seeking nature at its finest. With towering, snow-covered mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests, Tawang offers a breathtaking landscape. The winter season, particularly from December to January, brings heavy snowfall, making it a haven for snow lovers and enthusiasts. In addition to its natural beauty, Tawang is home to a 400-year-old monastery, a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists across India. While visiting, a trip to the famous Sela Pass is an absolute must!