Best Snowfall Places In India: Chasing The Winter Wonderland

‘Time spent in India has an extraordinary effect on one. It acts as a barrier that makes the rest of the world seem unreal.’ Well, this notion goes absolutely in line with the country that has a rich diversity not just in cultures but even the weather. India has everything, from the sweltering heat of the deserts of Rajasthan to the freezing temperatures of the mountains of Ladakh, which make Ladakh tour packages a favourite of all, and witnessing the snowfall is another one of India’s most enthralling experiences. 

In India, snowfall is a rare occurrence that only happens in a few snowfall places in India during the winter. If it does snow, though, the nation is transformed into a winter wonderland with pristine white snow covering the landscapes, creating a picturesque scene that is nothing short of magical.

India’s northern regions are known for witnessing snowfall, particularly in the states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Arunachal Pradesh. Winter months from December to February bring a lot of snow to these areas. The landscapes are transformed by the snowfall into a snow-covered wonderland, with mountains, valleys, and lakes all contributing to the breathtaking beauty of the scene.

Well, these are just a few of the many snowfall places in India that allow you to witness the magical phenomenon in the country. In this blog, we’re going to take you to the top 10 best snowfall places in India. So, without further ado, scroll through the blog and enjoy the ride through the country. 

Top 10 Snowfall Places In India

1. Ladakh

Ladakh, also known as “The Land of High Passes,” is a region in India’s far north in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a high-altitude desert which is surrounded by the majestic Himalayan, Karakoram, and Zanskar mountain ranges. Ladakh is widely known for its breathtaking scenery, historic monasteries, and dynamic culture. The snowfall in Ladakh is one of the region’s distinctive and fascinating features. 

Ladakh’s high elevation and mountainous topography result in severe weather conditions. The area is completely engulfed in a thick layer of snow when it is below freezing outside in the winter. In Ladakh, snowfall typically begins in November and lasts through March. 

The town of Leh is one of the best places in Ladakh to see snowfall. Ladakh’s largest town, Leh, is situated 3,500 metres above sea level and is the highest point in the region. The town, which is abode to some of the best monasteries in Ladakh is draped in a thick layer of snow during the winter, which creates a lovely and tranquil atmosphere. The town resembles a winter wonderland due to the snow-covered streets, homes, and monasteries.

Leh’s snowfall is not only a stunning sight to behold, but also an important aspect of the local economy. During the summer, Ladakh’s snow serves as a source of water for drinking and irrigation. In Ladakh, snow is kept in underground ice stupas, which are dome-shaped snow storage facilities. During the summer, these ice stupas slowly melt, supplying water to the villages and agricultural areas. Winter enthusiasts find bliss in Ladakh during the winter as they can watch their favourite must visit places in Ladakh draped in white sheets of snow, which takes their appeal to another level. 

Ladakh’s snowfall also offers other exceptional and thrilling adventure opportunities. In Ladakh, winter sports like snowboarding, skiing, and trekking are  widely recognised. The mountains and slopes covered in snow offer the perfect setting for adventure seekers. In the world famous Chadar Trek in Ladakh, trekkers traverse the frozen Zanskar River. One of the hardest and most adventurous treks in the world is this one.

To sum it up, it is safe to say that the snowfall in Ladakh is a magical experience that just cannot be found in other parts of the country. Due to its unique cultural experiences, snow-covered landscapes, and dry, powdery snow, Ladakh is a must-visit location in the winter. 

2. Manali

Next up on our list of the best snowfall places in India is a picturesque hill station located in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, and that destination is Manali. It is a popular destination for tourists throughout the year, but winter in Manali is a unique experience that should not be missed. The town is transformed into a winter wonderland during this season, with snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes, and snowy landscapes. The snowfall in Manali is a sight to behold.

Snowfall in Manali usually begins in November and lasts till February. During this time, the town gets heavy snowfall, with deposits reaching several feet. The snowfall turns the town into a winter wonderland, and the landscape becomes a white canvas. The snow-capped peaks, frozen rivers and lakes, and snow-covered trees blend to create breathtaking scenery that cannot be found elsewhere.

Owing to the snowfall in Manali, adventure seekers have the perfect opportunity to take part in their preferred winter sports. Winter sports like skiing and snowboarding are popular in Manali, and the slopes’ snow-covered conditions are perfect. The Solang Valley in Manali is a well known place for snowboarding and skiing. Located thirteen kilometres from the town, the valley is well recognised for its snow covered slopes that are well suited for snowboarding and skiing. 

Another well liked activity that is available to take part in Manali during the winter is trekking. A unique and fantastical landscape made of frozen rivers and snow-covered trails is ideal for trekking. A well-known winter trek through snow-covered valleys and mountain passes is the Hampta Pass Trek in Manali.

Manali’s reputation as one of the best snow places in India is also attributed to the town’s unique culinary offerings during the snowy season. Well-known for its variety of soups and stews, the local cuisine is perfect for surviving the chilly winter months. Warm up with some delectable food from the nearby cafes and restaurants after an exciting day.

3. Gulmarg

Jammu and Kashmir’s Gulmarg is one of India’s most picturesque and beautiful destinations to witness snowfall in the nation, snow-capped mountains and beautiful landscapes attract tourists from all over the world to Gulmarg. Winter is when Gulmarg truly comes alive, with a blanket of snow transforming the town into a winter wonderland.

In Gulmarg, snowfall usually starts in November and continues through late February or even into March. At this time of the year, thick sheets of snow cover the town, giving it a calm and pristine atmosphere. Nothing compares to the breathtaking scenery that is produced by the snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and trees. In addition to being a visual treat, Gulmarg’s snowfall presents a number of exciting opportunities for exploration. 

One of the most popular winter sports in Gulmarg is skiing. The town is dwelling to some of the best skiing slopes in the world, and the slopes are ideal for skiers since they are engulfed in snow. Gulmarg’s lengthy ski season, which lasts from December until mid-April, gives skiers plenty of chances to hit the slopes.

Gulmarg is also abode to one of the highest cable car rides in the world, the Gulmarg Gondola. The cable car ride takes tourists to an altitude of over 13,000 feet and offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains and the town beneath the cable car. The cable car ride is a popular attraction in Gulmarg, and during the winter season, the snow-covered surroundings make it even more enchanting.

Finally, the snowfall in Gulmarg is a one of its kind magical experience that just cannot be missed. Gulmarg is a must see winter destination due to its snow covered landscapes, adventure opportunities, cultural experiences, and local cuisine. Gulmarg is transformed into a winter wonderland when it snows, and the snow-covered surroundings create a surreal and enchanting atmosphere that cannot be found anywhere else. 

4. Nainital

Nainital, in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a popular tourist destination known for its tranquil lakes and picturesque scenery. While the town is beautiful all year, the winter season, from November to February, is when it truly comes alive with the magic of snowfall.

One of Nainital’s most loved and famous wintertime attractions, the snow view point, has gifted the town’s reputation as one of India’s best skiing destinations. From here, visitors can see the surrounding snow-covered mountains as well as the entire snow-covered town. Visitors can also take a cable car up to the snow view point for breathtaking views from 2270 metres. 

Adventure lovers in Nainital have a unique chance thanks to the snowfall. Winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and trekking are very popular. There are many hiking trails near the town that provide breathtaking views of the valleys and snow-capped mountains. The slopes for skiing and snowboarding in Nainital are excellent for beginners and provide a great opportunity to try these sports.

Along with outdoor activities, the snowfall in Nainital provides a unique cultural experience. The town is home to an array of historic temples and churches, which are concealed in snow during the winter. A well-known temple in Nainital is the Naina Devi Temple, which is situated on the shores of Naini Lake. The temple has a serene and peaceful atmosphere in the winter because of the snow that covers it.

After reading so much about the place during the winters, Nainital for sure is one of the best snowfall places in India which just cannot be missed. So without any delay, pack your bags and  start your snowfall experience in Nainital. 

5. Mussoorie

Mussoorie, also referred to as the “Queen of Hills,” is a charming hill town situated in the Uttarakhand region of northern India. One of Mussoorie’s most well-liked tourist destinations in the winter is the famous and lively Mall Road. The Mall Road, the town’s main attraction, is lined with stores, cafes, and eateries. The Mall Road is covered under thick sheets during the winter which gives the area a fantastical and enchanting feel. Travellers can take a leisurely stroll down the snow-covered street, browse local gift shops, and eat hot and delectable food at neighborhood cafes and restaurants.

Mussoorie, just like Nainital also hosts the Winter Carnival, which is a celebration of winter and Mussoorie’s snowfall. The funfair is held in December and features an assortment of events, such as ice skating, snowman-building contests, and snow painting contests. Travellers exploring Mussoorie during this time have an excellent opportunity to take part in local festivities and culture.

Mussoorie’s chilly climate is ideal for a restful and reinvigorating vacation. To relax their bodies and minds, visitors can indulge in spa services, hot baths, and steam rooms.

Travellers can also enjoy the regional cuisine since Mussoorie offers a variety of regional specialties during the winter that are ideal for the chilly climate. The local cuisine will keep you warm and satisfied with everything from steaming momos and thukpas to piping hot parathas and aloo tikkis.

There are a plethora of places too, which travellers can visit in Mussoorie during the winters. Some of the most prominent destinations include 

Kempty Falls: About 15 kilometres from Mussoorie, Kempty Falls is a well-liked tourist destination. When the falls freeze over in the winter, a stunning scene is created that is worth seeing. Near the falls, visitors can engage in activities like camping, hiking, and bonfires.

Gun Hill: Gun Hill, Mussoorie’s second-highest peak, offers breathtaking panoramas of the city and the Himalayas. A cable car ride will take visitors to the hilltop where they can take in the stunning views.

Mussoorie Lake: During the winter, this man-made lake offers a tranquil and serene atmosphere. While taking in the scenic beauty of the surroundings, visitors can take part in boating, paddle boating, and other activities. 

To sum it up, the charming hill station of Mussoorie has something for everyone, and the winters add cherry on top of the cake. So, without further delay, pack your bags and start your journey to Mussoorie for an experience like no other. 

6. Shimla

Tourists seeking refuge from the scorching summer sun frequently travel to Shimla, the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. Shimla, however, turns into a serene winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes during the winter months.

One of the best snow places in India, Shimla typically experiences snowfall from December through February. During these months, the town is covered in a thick layer of snow and the temperature drops to below zero, making it a lovely winter destination.

The Ridge is the most loved location in Shimla for witnessing the snowfall. It is a large open area with breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains that is situated right in the middle of the city. Travellers can cherish the scenic beauty of the surroundings while taking a leisurely walk or sipping hot coffee in a few of the many cafes present in the city. 

Another loved` location to see snowfall in Shimla is Jakhu Hill. With its jawdropping views of the snow covered Himalayas, it is the town’s highest peak. A quick stroll will get visitors to the peak, where they can take in the expansive views of the entire town.

Besides these, there are a myriad activities that visitors travelling to Shimla during the winter can take part in. 

Skiing: Winters in Shimla offer fantastic skiing opportunities. Nearby Shimla are the famous ski resorts of Narkanda and Kufri, where visitors can enjoy to their fullest while skiing and snowboarding.

Ice skating is a popular winter activity at Shimla’s outdoor ice skating rink in Lakkar Bazaar. The rink offers ice skating and other winter sports for visitors to cherish.

Visitors can engage in the adventurous activity of snow trekking in Shimla when it snows. The Shimla to Chail trek and the Shimla to Kufri trek are just two of the many trekking routes available in the town.

Shopping: Shimla’s renowned Mall Road is a well-liked location for shopping, particularly in the winter. While taking in the festive atmosphere, visitors can shop for regional handicrafts, winter clothing, and souvenirs.

To sum it up, Shimla is an enchanting hill station which, during the winters, transforms into a winter wonderland. Travellers can take part in a variety of wintertime activities in Shimla, including skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and shopping among other essential things to do.

7. Dhanaulti

Regarded to be one of the best snow places in India during the winter, Dhanaulti is a popular destination for travellers looking to get away from the daily grind of city life. It is situated at an altitude of 2286 metres above sea level, and is considered as one the best places for snowfall in India.

Surkhanda Devi Temple is the most famous place to see snow in Dhanaulti. It is a well known temple perched on a hill which offers jawdropping views of the snow covered Himalayas. Travellers can embark on a short walk to reach the temple and enjoy the panoramic views of the entire town.

Besides the temple, Eco Park is another popular landmark to witness snowfall in Dhanaulti. It is a lovely park nestled among the hills that provides breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscapes. Visitors can take a peaceful walk through the park while admiring the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

Skiing, Nag Tibba trek, a jolly time in Dhanaulti adventure park are a few of the many things which travellers can take part in during their visit to Dhanaulti in winter. 

8. Spiti

On the eighth position in our list of best snow places in India is the cold desert located in the midst of the Himalayas which turns into a white wonderland during the winter season, and that region is Spiti. The valley is a popular winter destination because of its breathtaking scenery, tranquil atmosphere, and snow-capped mountains. This blog about snowfall in Spiti will transport you to this enchanted location.

Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti Valley, a frigid desert region, experiences significant snowfall from November to February. The valley is transformed into a winter wonderland by the snowfall, providing breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks, frozen rivers, and unspoiled snowy landscapes. The valley is popular among tourists seeking a tranquil and distinctive experience because of its historic monasteries, charming villages, and indigenous culture.

Spiti in winter is surrounded by a thick layer of snow during the snowfall, making it the perfect location for adventure seekers. In the snow covered landscapes, travellers can engage in a variety of activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing among other essential things to do in Spiti Valley. The valley also offers a number of trekking trails, including the Pin Parvati Pass Trek, Hampta Pass Trek, and Chandratal Lake Trek, giving visitors the chance to explore the valley’s breathtaking landscapes.

9. Srinagar

If there is heaven on Earth, it is here, it is here, it is here…. Truer words have never been spoken about a place like Srinagar which turns into nothing less than heaven during the winters. Tourists love to visit Srinagar for its picturesque landscape, tranquil lakes, and lovely gardens. But when it snows heavily in the winter, Srinagar turns into a winter wonderland, giving visitors a unique and enchanted experience.

The Dal Lake is one of the most appreciated places to go when it snows in Srinagar. The lake is a popular destination for visitors to the city because of its serene beauty. Visitors have the chance to walk on the frozen lake and take in the scenic beauty of the surroundings when the lake freezes over in the winter. A traditional Shikara ride on the lake is another option available to visitors, providing a singular and unforgettable experience.

The Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh are just two of the lovely gardens in Srinagar. These gardens are well known for their lovely flowers and rich vegetation, which when it snows turns into a magical land with colour white as far as the eyes can see. The gardens are engulfed in snow, and visitors can stroll peacefully through them and take in the tranquil atmosphere.

In addition, Srinagar is also known for its local cuisine, which showcases items like Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, and Wazwan. Food lovers must try these dishes, which are prepared with ingredients and spices from the local region. Travellers and food lovers can also browse the local markets and look out to buy traditional Kashmiri wares like carpets, paper maché goods, and pashmina shawls.

10. Almora

Last but definitely not least in our list of ‘Best Snow Places In India’ is the town of Almora, Which is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, old temples, and natural beauty and is located at a height of 1,638 metres above sea level and is encircled by the majestic Himalayas. 

When Raja Kalyan Chand founded Almora in the 16th century, it began a long and illustrious history. Up until the 18th century, when it was moved to neighbouring Nainital, the town served as the Chand dynasty’s capital. Later, in 1815, the British took control of Almora, and it developed into a significant administrative hub.

The magnificent Himalayas, which encircle Almora and provide breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks, are nearby. The town is renowned for its verdant forests, lovely valleys, and glistening rivers. The town experiences moderate to heavy snowfall during the winter, which turns the entire area into a winter wonderland. Almora is the ideal vacation spot for people who love the winter because of the landscapes covered in snow and the breathtaking views of the mountains nearby.

Well, this brings us to the end of our list of the best snowfall places in India. In the end, it is safe to say that our country is blessed with all kinds of landscapes which offer something to everyone, and snowfall is one of them. From the serene and tranquil landscapes of Ladakh and Spiti to the lush green lands of Shimla, Mussoorie, Manali and more, there are a plethora of places which you can explore during the winter season. So if you’re planning to explore the country to witness the magic of snowfall, you must visit these top snowfall places in India. So pack your bags and start your new journey. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Snowfall Places In India