Jan 22, 2026
Yes, India is blessed with some of the most beautiful mountain ranges, valleys and terrains, and there is absolutely no need to fly out to Switzerland or Norway to experience snow. As the altitude increases, you can witness snow-capped mountains during the winter season, mostly from November to February. If you plan your visit at the right time, you can experience fresh snowfall where the temperature might drop below 5 degrees and even lower.
India experiences colder winters mostly in the Northern plains and Himalayas, where the temperature becomes icy with snowfall, fog, mist and frost. Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are some of the best places to experience snow in India. Relive your childhood dream and have fun playing in the snow, making snow angels, snowman, and throwing snowballs. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this snowy, pale, frozen winter wonderland in India. People flock in from across the country to experience this magical weather in hill stations, and suddenly India transforms into a popular winter destination. Now, if you wish to experience snow first time, take a snow selfie, taste snow, or just try out your new winter wardrobe, here is the list of places where you can experience snow in India.
Manali in Himachal
Nestled in the Kullu valley, Manali tops as one of the most popular and favourite tourist destinations to witness snow. If you time it right, you can just arrive a day before the first snowfall and experience the frosty and snow-covered town from your hotel window with fresh snowfall first thing in the morning. The scenic landscape views with the snow-clad Himalayas towering above are just unbelievable and will be everything you ever imagined, straight out of your desktop wallpaper. If you are adventurous, you can drive to Solang Valley, and try skiing, paragliding, and snowboarding in one of India’s most attractive winter playgrounds. Manali’s weather is expected to go from -1 °C to 10 °C, so do not forget to add layers of clothing, thermal wear and jackets to make yourself warm. Manali has a lot of cottages, resorts and villas promising breath-taking views and a comfortable stay. Manali, during the winter, is a snowy paradise which you have to experience at least once in your lifetime. The closest airport to Manali is Kullu-Manali Airport, which is at least 50 km away from Manali, after which you will have to take a bus or a cab to help you reach your destination.
Mussoorie in Uttarakhand
Mussoorie is the “Queen of hill stations” and a perfect destination to witness snowfall in Uttarakhand. Away from the crowded cities and into the lap of nature to experience some peace and tranquility is what Mussoorie promises. It is located on the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan ranges. While Mussoorie is as beautiful as a snowy wonderland, nothing beats the experience of taking a stroll on the Mall Road when it’s snowing. Some of the important attractions in Mussoorie are Mussoorie Library, an architectural marvel with valuable books and manuscripts, Gun Hill Point, a high vantage point that offers a panoramic view of the city and landscapes. If you are adventurous, trek through the majestic hills, scenic Kempty waterfalls, George Everest House, now a museum was built in 1832 and is home to Sir George Everest, who accurately measured the tallest peak in the world, Mount Everest and Lal Tibba, the highest point in Mussoorie, best for hiking and offers a spectacular view of the snow-capped Himalayas. Camel’s Back Road offers a scenic walk, best recommended for the winter season. Book cottages or hotels nearby to make yourself comfortable and make sure to layer up as the weather is going to be very chilly. The nearest airport to Mussoorie is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is 60 km away and another 2-hour drive by bus or taxi, will take you to Mussoorie.
Shimla in Himachal
Shimla in Himachal Pradesh is another hill station that will surprise you with its colonial charm, snow-capped mountains, and sheets of snow atop trees, houses and cars resembling winter in Germany. The temperature here can drop below the freezing point; make sure to wear layers of clothing. The popular places to visit in Shimla include the bustling Mall Road, the Ridge offering an enchanting view in December, historic Christ Church, and the scenic Jakhu Temple, having the largest statue of Lord Hanuman covered in snow in the winter. If you are into snow adventures like skiing, horse riding, trekking, and ski slopes, visit Kufri, Narkanda and Mashobra. Annandale is a snow playground during winter; the flat terrain and open landscape allow for all kinds of sports activities. You may also visit Rohru for its apple orchard and trout fishing, a popular activity in this area or Shaily Peaks for a pony ride. The Shimla toy train ride is beyond beautiful and magical, like a fairy tale come alive. Chadwick Waterfalls, falling from a height of 100 meters, will leave you mesmerised. The nearest airport to reach Shimla is Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Chandigarh, and another 4-hour drive by road will take you to your destination. Choose a comfortable stay from an array of places according to your preference.
Gulmarg in Jammu & Kashmir
Located in the Northern most part of Jammu And Kashmir, Gulmarg is known as the “Meadow of flowers”. It turns into a winter wonderland covered in thick blankets of snow, boasting of world-class winter sports like skiing, skating, snowboarding and sledging. The iconic Gulmarg Gondola, receives a lot of tourists this time for its sporting adventures and for being the highest and longest cable car in the world. You can catch a bird’s eye view of Gulmarg from the Gondola ride. Powdered snow, pristine white slopes, frosty mornings, frozen lakes (Alpather lake is an important attraction and freezes solid at an altitude of 4380m) and snow-covered pine trees and landscapes make it a popular winter destinations in India. You can book your accommodation in nearby cottages or hotels of your preference and enjoy the view, sipping on hot coffee. The temperature can drop from -2 degrees to 7 degrees and even 0 degrees at night. The winter season often starts from October, extending to March, and January and February receive heavy snowfall with snowstorms. With heavy rainfall, the roads to Gulmarg may experience closure. It is best to depend on experienced local drivers, for they will be familiar with the terrain. The nearest airport to is Srinagar International Airport, after which you will need to take a bus or taxi to reach Gulmarg. The journey will be picturesque. Make sure to carry clothes that keep you warm, and also book an accommodation that will keep you comfortable.
Darjeeling in West Bengal
Darjeeling, aka “Queen of the Himalayas” is a hill station best known for its tea estates and the spectacular view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Tourists crowd in to see the sunrise from the Tiger Hill early in the morning, hiking and trekking in the winter is a popular adventure in Darjeeling for the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy the exceptional view of the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga. The tea estates look exceptionally beautiful in winter and are a sight to behold. River rafting, thrilling ropeway, and camping are all activities you can experience during January. The temperature can drop as low as 2 degrees. While you are at it, make sure to sip on some hot brewing Darjeeling tea. Ride the steam engine-powered Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UN World Heritage built between 1879 and 1881, enjoying the panoramic view of the snowcapped hills, valleys and evergreen plantations. The architecture and serenity of the Buddhist monasteries are worth visiting. The nearest airport to Darjeeling is 95 km away in Bagdogra.
Auli in Uttarakhand
Often called the skiing capital of India, it is famous for its snowy slopes, fresh snow, heavy snowfall, skiing, hiking and snowboarding, longest cable rides and majestic view of Nanda Devi, second highest peak in India. During the winter from October to February, temperature ranges from 4 to -10 degrees. The longest cable car ride starting from Joshimath lets you explore the panoramic view of Nanda Devi Mountain along with scenic landscapes. Auli’s skiing slopes are famous among amateurs and experts and the best time to visit is from January to March. Gorson Bugyal is a Himalayan alpine meadow located at a higher altitude, offering a more adventurous trek of snow-covered trails and a panoramic view of the Himalayas for beginners and experienced trekkers. Auli Artificial lake is the highest manmade lake in the world, which is truly a sight of bliss and grandeur with its turquoise colour amidst lush greenery blended into the Himalayan background and clear blue skies. The lake blings like a jewel amidst the white snow, the lake can be accessed through cable cars. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun which is 286km away, after which you need to travel by road to reach Auli.
Leh in Ladakh
Even if not in the winter, Leh Ladakh is the most sought-after tourist destination for domestic and international tourists alike. In the winter, Leh Ladakh is exceptionally beautiful with the view of the snowy mountains, ice skating on frozen Zanskar river, frozen waterfalls, stalagmites and stalactites, and visiting ancient monasteries offering you sublime peace and serenity. With the high altitude and winter temperature going as low as -20 or -30 degrees at night everything literally freezes. Located 14,000 metres above sea level, it is a paradise for hikers, trekkers, mountaineers and bikers alike who love adventure and adrenaline rush. Winters are less crowded, and you can enjoy the picturesque views in solitude. Homestays and accommodation will be available at an affordable range, and it’s best to layer up and keep yourself warm. The nearest airport, Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, is 3.8 km away from Leh. You can also travel by road, which is most preferred by young travellers.
Lambasingi in Andhra Pradesh
Popularly known as the “Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh” is located 1000 metres above sea level and is the only place in South India where snow can be experienced. This tiny, charming village offers cool climate, great scenery in the countryside and boasts natural beauty with snowfall and winter season experienced between November and January with temperatures below 0 degrees and chilly winds. The name of the place, Lambasingi, is also called Korra Bayalu, which literally translates to “if someone stays out in the open, they would freeze like a stick”. You can explore beautiful waterfalls, valleys, exotic flora, especially yellow and black-eyed susan flowers, and lush green forests make way for a hidden paradise.
Now that you know the ideal location to experience snow in India, keep your bags and winter clothes ready. With the winter season fast approaching, let’s plan and choose a favourite destination to make the most of the snow memories and experience a magical winter. For any travel-related queries or ticket bookings, do call us at 0484 2846999, and we will provide you with the necessary help to make your trip comfortable. You can also check our website, www.santamonicafly.com for the best travel packages to experience snow in India.
