Snowfall Destinations in India

How good can be the warmth of sunshine, without cold winters to give it sweetness? In India, winter is a merry season for marriages, celebrations, and festivals; to ask our mother to prepare sweet delicious food; to enjoy a mug of caffeine and read a page-turner next to a fireplace, and of course, a time to make a run for the hills to see the fresh flurry of snow. From the frequently visited Kashmir Valley to somewhat unexplored Yumthang Valley, here's a list of destinations to see snowfall in India –

Leh

Sure, the far-flung region of Laddakh is hard to access in peak winters, but to bike all the way to Leh is a lifelong dream for most travellers. Laddakh is undeniably beautiful throughout the year and especially after snowfall. The Zanskar Valley has one of the best winter treks in India, not to forget the 75-km-long Chadar trek.

Gulmarg and Sonamarg

Few destinations can rival the beauty of the silvery slopes of Gulmarg in winter. The two-day-long Gulmarg Snow Festival captures the essence of infinitely picturesque snow-blanketed Pir Panjal Range. Outdoor thrills like skiing, trekking, and horse-riding are on offer. Take the famous cable car ride on Gulmarg Gondola or join a trekking expedition to the Nanga Parbat. At the cusp of Kolhoi and Machoi glaciers lies Sonamarg – a pit-stop on the Srinagar–Leh highway. Take in the awe-inspiring views from Zoji La or slide away in a sledge on freshly-fallen snow.

Srinagar

The centrepiece of entire Kashmir Valley, Srinagar is a winter wonderland. Many travellers wait for the Dal Lake and the land of saffron to freeze over so that they can indulge in winter sports. Hike up the Shankaracharya Hill to catch the whole city draped in powdery snow.

Dalhousie

Situated across the five slopes of Dhauladhar range in Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie is a favourite retreat for those seeking quiet vacation. Join a guided hiking expedition to Dainkund or rent a cottage in a nearby town of Khajjiar – the Switzerland of India – to get away from it all.

Shimla

A significant amount of snowfall makes the "Queen of Hills” shiver every winter. From Victorian architectural wonders to bustling shopping streets, Shimla is arguably one of the most sought after places to visit in winter. Don't forget to see the Mall Road, Jakhoo Hill, Lakkar Bazaar, and royal gardens. Solan – yet another picture-perfect hill station – lies about 45 kilometres from Shimla. Known for hospitable locals, Thodo dance, mushrooms, and tomatoes, it is a melting pot of culture, arts, and history of the Gorkhas.

Kullu and Manali

Swathed in abundance of natural features, the appeal of these twin towns never fades in any season. Nestled between two soaring peaks – Indrasan and Hanuman Tibba – in the Beas River valley, Manali is an ideal destination for romantic vacations. Popular for parachuting, paragliding and zorbing, Kullu lies about 40 km downstream.

Almora

A cultural heart of the Kumaon region, this secluded hill station in Uttarakhand has renowned ashrams and revered temples. Admire magnificent views from Bright End Corner and enjoy skiing, hiking, and overnight camping around this quaint hamlet.

Auli

It is a popular hill station in Uttarakhand that is blessed with scenic beauty of dramatic landscape. The town is famous for ski resorts and it lies en route to Badrinath and other pilgrimages. Its 3-km-long slopes – similar to the slopes of European Alps – offer ample opportunities for skiing in winter season.

Tawang

Winter is the ideal time to visit Tawang in western Arunachal Pradesh. The setting of lofty peaks, covered in snow, looks more beautiful than the town itself. It houses Tawang Monastery which is world's second largest after the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Besides Buddhist influence, destinations like Sela Pass, Bap Teng Kang Waterfall, and Gorichen Peak are worth a visit for their natural splendour.