We have all seen the fascinating snowfall in movies and romantic songs. Still, not everyone gets a chance to experience it in real life. Especially in a country like India, with a hot and varied climate. In India, snowfall is often seen only on wallpaper and calendars.
Now, just imagine this for a moment: you are passing through a beautiful valley, and that place is covered with soft snow from all sides. All the trees around are covered with snow, shining with the reflection of soothing sunlight. You are taking hot tea sips while sitting around those beautiful litigants and can feel soft and tiny snowflakes cuddling your face.
Sounds interesting, right?
If you want to experience this fantasy in real life, then keep reading to know about the most beautiful snowfall destinations in India to visit this winter.
Gulmarg
Gulmarg is one of the most beautiful snowfall destinations in India. This place is blessed with the unique beauty of its kind. Unlike a simple destination to witness snowfall, Gulmarg has a lot to offer you other than snowballs and snowmen. This beautiful place lies in the Pir Panjal Range of the western Himalayas in Jammu & Kashmir. With great slopes and India’s highest cable car project, (Gulmarg Gondola) Gulmarg is the best destination for skiing in India. Both beginners and pros are allowed to ski. Great skiing tracks, snowboarding, and Gondola rides make this a great place for snow sports.
Along with adventurous aspects, Gulmarg is also a very popular honeymoon destination in India. Here you will observe that there is not much crowd as compared to the other snowfall destinations in India. With pleasing valleys, beautiful gardens, and divine peace, it will bring you much closer to nature and make you feel like staying here forever!!
Best time to visit Gulmarg: January-February
Manali
Manali is one such destination that automatically appears to mind when it comes to snowfall and hill stations in India. Situated in Himachal Pradesh, Manali lies between the snowy ranges of Pir-Panjal and Dhauladhar.
Enriched with majestic mountains, distinctive culture, stunning scenery, and delicious food, this among the perfect snowfall destinations in India. With breathtaking landscapes in summer and magical snowfall in winter, Manali attracts visitors throughout the year.
Due to the high elevation, Manali poses a pretty cool temperature. During the winter, one can often see snowfall. If you want to enjoy snowfall, then you should book your stay in the old Manali. From there, you can enjoy the scenic views of snow-capped mountains right from your window.
Best time to visit Manali: December-January
Auli
If you want to enjoy snowfall with panoramic views of beautiful snowy mountains as well as an adventuresome experience, then Auli is the best place for you. Auli is a popular tourist destination, located in the Chamoli district in the Himalayan ranges of Uttarakhand. You can enjoy the beauty of Auli at any time of the year, especially in winter, this natural wonder seems like a fantasy.
Auli is famous for skiing, where you can have an adventurous experience with some of India’s highest peaks, like Nanda Devi and Nar-Parvat. There are lots of ski resorts in Auli, from where you can enjoy some magnificent views. Apart from skiing, there are lots of aspects that make Auli a wonderful snowfall destination in India. Snowy peaks, oak trees, and wooden huts all together make Auli look like some European destination.
In winters, you can expect the temperature to go down to -6 degrees Celsius.
Best time to visit Auli: November-February
Sonmarg
Sonmarg, also known as the “Meadow of Gold,” is a stunning hill station located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in northern India. Situated at an altitude of 2,740 meters above sea level, Sonmarg is a popular snowfall destination for those seeking to escape the heat and enjoy the cooler mountain climate.
One of the main attractions of Sonmarg is its picturesque location surrounded by towering peaks and verdant forests. The Thajiwas Glacier, located just a few kilometers from Sonmarg, is a popular spot for tourists to visit and enjoy the beautiful snow-capped mountains.
Sonmarg is also home to a number of natural hot springs, believed to have medicinal properties. Visitors can take a dip in the hot springs and relax in the warm waters, surrounded by the serene beauty of the mountains.
In the winter months, Sonmarg is transformed into a winter wonderland, with heavy snowfall and frozen waterfalls. Tourists can enjoy a range of winter sports and activities, such as skiing, sledding, and ice skating.
For those seeking a peaceful mountain experience, Sonmarg is a must-visit destination in Jammu and Kashmir.
Best time to visit Sonmarg: December-January
Dhanaulti
Dhanaulti is a small hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. Nestled amidst the lush green forests of the Himalayan foothills, Dhanaulti is a peaceful snowfall destination in India that is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the main attractions of Dhanaulti is its stunning natural beauty, with panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks and the dense forests that surround the town. In the winter months, Dhanaulti is transformed into a winter wonderland, with heavy snowfall and frozen waterfalls. Tourists can enjoy a range of winter sports and activities, such as skiing, sledding, and ice skating.
In addition to its natural beauty, Dhanaulti is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions. The Surkanda Devi Temple, located just a few kilometers from the town, is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple is situated at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Overall, Dhanaulti is a perfect destination for those seeking to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Himalayan mountains, and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Uttarakhand.
Best time to visit Dhanaulti: December to February
Munsiyari
Munsiyari, often referred to as the ‘Little Kashmir’, is a hidden gem located in the Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand. This quaint town is perched at an altitude of about 2,200 meters and offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Himalayas, particularly the Panchachuli Peaks.
In winters, Munsiyari is enveloped in a thick blanket of snow, transforming it into a pristine white paradise. This season brings a magical transformation, with the snow-covered landscapes offering a serene and tranquil environment, ideal for those looking for snowfall destination in India to unwind in the lap of nature.
Apart from its scenic beauty, this snowfall destination in India is a haven for trekking enthusiasts, offering several trails that lead to mesmerizing spots like the Khaliya Top and Nanda Devi Temple. These treks are particularly enchanting during the winter months, as the snow adds an element of adventure to the experience.
For those interested in wildlife, the Munsiyari region is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including rare species like the Snow Leopard and Himalayan Monal. The nearby Thamri Kund, a natural lake, is a popular spot for bird watching.
Munsiyari is not just about natural beauty; it’s a cultural hub too. The locals, mainly from the Bhotia tribe, have a rich tradition of woolen handcrafts. The town also serves as a base for the famous Milam and Ralam Glaciers treks.
Best Time to Visit Munsiyari: December to February
Chopta
Chopta, often called the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, is a lesser-known yet stunningly beautiful hill station in the Uttarakhand state. Located at an elevation of approximately 2,680 meters above sea level, it is part of the Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary and offers a spectacular view of the Himalayan ranges including Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Chaukhamba.
During the winter months, Chopta receives a significant amount of snowfall, turning it into a picturesque winter wonderland. The snow-clad meadows and the pine, deodar, and rhododendron forests offer a breathtaking panoramic view, making it a photographer’s paradise.
Chopta is also the starting point of the trek to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world, and further to Chandrashila peak. The trek through the snow-covered paths is both challenging and exhilarating, attracting adventure enthusiasts from all over.
Apart from trekking, Chopta is an ideal spot for camping under the stars. The clear night skies offer a magnificent view of the galaxy, making it a memorable experience for campers and stargazers alike.
The region’s rich flora and fauna add to its charm. It is a haven for bird watchers, with a variety of Himalayan species being spotted here. The serenity and untouched beauty of Chopta make it one of the greatest snowfall destinations in India for those seeking peace and solitude amidst nature.
Best Time to Visit Chopta: December to March
As we come to the end of our journey through some of the most stunning snowfall destinations in India, it becomes clear that the country’s diverse landscape has much more to offer beyond its usual warm and tropical climate. Each destination we’ve explored, whether it’s the mesmerizing slopes of Gulmarg or the peaceful beauty of Chopta, provides a unique winter experience that is full of natural wonders and cultural richness.
In these snowy wonderlands, every moment is more than just a mere sight; it’s a feeling that touches your soul. These are not just travel destinations; they are chapters of a story waiting to be unraveled, memories waiting to be cherished.
So, as you plan your next winter getaway, remember that India’s snow-covered peaks and frosty valleys offer more than just a visual treat.
Get ready to pack your bags and head to these snowy paradises in India to experience the magic of winter wonderlands. Sometimes, spending some time in the snow can help you appreciate the warmth of your home even more.
Nakul Hada is a travel blogger. He is a travel buff who especially loves road trips. He believes in exploring and self-learning which makes his article informative and practical. You can find him on Linkedin or on Instagram @nakulsinghhada.
Excellent post!
Thank you Ben for your appreciation!