Dreaming of a snow-covered winter escape? India offers some of the most breathtaking snowy destinations, from Himalayan skiing resorts to offbeat frozen landscapes. Whether you love adventure sports, cozy hill retreats, or untouched winter wilderness, here’s a detailed guide to the best places to experience snow in India.
Gulmarg is known for its powdery snow, world-class skiing slopes, and the highest Gondola ride in Asia.
✔ Skiing & Snowboarding – Ideal for beginners and professionals.
✔ Gulmarg Gondola Ride – Take in breathtaking aerial views of snow-covered Pir Panjal peaks.
✔ Frozen Alpather Lake – A beautiful frozen lake perfect for winter photography.
? Best time for snow: December to March
? Ideal for: Adventure seekers, honeymooners, photographers
Manali is one of the most popular winter destinations in India, offering thrilling snow activities, scenic winter landscapes, and cozy retreats.
✔ Solang Valley & Rohtang Pass – Best for skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding.
✔ Hot Springs at Vashisht – Experience steaming hot water baths in snowy surroundings.
✔ Hampta Pass Trek – A mesmerizing snow trek for adventure lovers.
? Best time for snow: December to February
? Ideal for: Families, honeymooners, and adventure lovers
Auli offers perfect snow conditions, breathtaking views of Nanda Devi Peak, and well-groomed ski slopes.
✔ Skiing & Snowboarding – One of the best skiing resorts in India.
✔ Auli Ropeway – A thrilling 4km cable car ride with panoramic views.
✔ Gorson Bugyal Trek – A scenic snow trek to meadows blanketed in white.
? Best time for snow: December to March
? Ideal for: Skiers, photographers, adventure seekers
Shimla and Kufri turn into a winter paradise with their snow-clad peaks, colonial charm, and winter sports.
✔ Kufri Ski Resort – Ideal for beginners in skiing and snowboarding.
✔ Narkanda Snow Trek – A peaceful trek through snow-laden pine forests.
✔ Mall Road & Ridge in Winter – Enjoy a cozy walk through a snowy British-era town.
? Best time for snow: December to February
? Ideal for: Families, honeymooners, first-time snow travelers
Tawang offers stunning snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, and peaceful monasteries.
✔ Sela Pass in Winter – Experience a dramatic high-altitude pass covered in thick snow.
✔ Tawang Monastery – The largest Buddhist monastery in India, surrounded by snow.
✔ Frozen Pangang Teng Tso Lake – A mesmerizing lake that completely freezes in winter.
? Best time for snow: November to March
? Ideal for: Offbeat travelers, cultural explorers, road trip lovers
Sonamarg, meaning "Meadow of Gold," turns into a spectacular snowy retreat in winters.
✔ Zero Point Adventure – Try snowmobiling, sledding, and skiing at 11,500 ft.
✔ Thajiwas Glacier Trek – A stunning glacier trek through snow-covered valleys.
✔ Winter Camping – Experience camping under a starry, snow-covered sky.
? Best time for snow: December to March
? Ideal for: Nature lovers, photographers, adventure seekers
Spiti Valley in winter offers a surreal, snow-covered landscape perfect for offbeat travelers.
✔ Snow-Covered Monasteries – Visit Key Monastery and Tabo Monastery in a white wonderland.
✔ Frozen Chandratal Lake – One of the most stunning frozen lakes in India.
✔ Winter Road Trip – Drive through Spiti’s challenging, snow-covered mountain roads.
? Best time for snow: December to February
? Ideal for: Hardcore adventurers, winter photographers, offbeat travelers
Chopta is a hidden gem, perfect for winter treks, snow camping, and peaceful landscapes.
✔ Tungnath & Chandrashila Trek – A breathtaking snow trek leading to a 360° Himalayan view.
✔ Snow Camping – Experience a winter night in a snow-covered campsite.
✔ Rare Himalayan Wildlife – Spot monals, musk deer, and Himalayan foxes.
? Best time for snow: December to March
? Ideal for: Trekkers, backpackers, nature lovers
If you're looking for a less-explored snow destination, Zuluk and Nathang Valley offer untouched snowfall experiences.
✔ Silk Route in Snow – Drive through a winding road covered in snow.
✔ Frozen Waterfalls & Monasteries – Discover stunning winter landscapes.
? Best time for snow: December to March
? Ideal for: Offbeat explorers, road trip lovers, nature enthusiasts
Ladakh in winter is harsh but breathtaking, offering some of India’s most extreme snowy landscapes.
✔ Frozen Zanskar River Trek (Chadar Trek) – One of the most thrilling winter treks in the world.
✔ Pangong Lake in Winter – See the iconic lake completely frozen.
✔ Snow Desert Landscapes – Experience the barren beauty of Nubra Valley covered in snow.
? Best time for snow: January to March
? Ideal for: Extreme adventurers, trekkers, experienced winter travelers