Winter Snow has an unbeatable charm!
India is blessed with some of the most dramatic landscapes on the planet, and when winter arrives, many of these regions turn into fairytale-like snowy escapes. From the mighty Himalayas to charming hill towns, the country offers numerous places where you can witness fresh snowfall, enjoy adventure sports, or simply soak in peaceful white surroundings.
The best part? You don’t have to travel abroad to enjoy snowfall. So, grab your warmest jackets, pack those boots, and get ready to explore the 5 best snowfall places in India.
1) Gulmarg & Pahalgam
Gulmarg and Pahalgam are two of the most iconic winter destinations in India. Gulmarg, lovingly called as the ‘Meadow of Flowers’, turns into a sparkling white paradise as soon as winter begins. Pahalgam, with its calm riverside views and snow-covered pine forests, offers a magical atmosphere for peaceful walks and scenic photography.
Top Places to Explore: Apharwat Peak, Drung Waterfall, Glass Igloo Café, Strawberry Valley
Local Delicacies: Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, Yakhni, Kahwa, Sheer Chai
Best Time for Snow: October – March
Elevation: Around 2700 m
Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Railway Station
2) Mussoorie
Mussoorie needs no introduction. Known as the ‘Queen of Hills‘, the town turns magical when wrapped in snow during the winter months. From the bustle of the popular Mall Road to the calm corners of Landour, visitors can enjoy scenic walks, snowy viewpoints and winter activities like trekking, ziplining and stargazing.
Must-Visit Spots: Lal Tibba, Camel’s Back Road, Mall Road, Landour
Try These Foods: Thukpa, Momo, Tibetan dishes
Snowy Months: December – February
Elevation: Around 2000 m
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun
3) Sonmarg
Sonmarg, meaning ‘Meadow of Gold‘, transforms into a dreamy white landscape in winter. It’s a favourite for adventure lovers who enjoy skiing, snow trekking and snowboarding. A trek to the frozen Sindh River is a unique experience, while the nearby glacier offers year-round snow and striking views.
Places to Explore: Thajiwas Glacier, Zoji La Pass, Baltal Valley, Sonmarg Market
Popular Food: Marcha-Wangan Korma, Kaanti
Snow Season: November – April
Elevation: Around 9000 ft
Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi
4) Auli
Auli is one of the top winter getaways for both beginners and professional skiers. Surrounded by the Garhwal Himalayas, this beautiful destination receives generous snowfall, making it perfect for skiing, trekking, camping and cable car rides.
The views of giants like Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat are simply breathtaking.
Highlights: Joshimath, Gurso Bugyal, Chenab Lake, Rudraprayag
Food to Try: Garhwali dishes, Bal Mithai, Singhauri
Snow Season: December – March
Elevation: Around 2600 m
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh
5) Ladakh
Winters in Ladakh is an experience unlike any other. Its rugged mountains, frozen lakes and quiet monasteries create a surreal snow-covered world. Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri and Nubra Valley look spectacular when draped in white.
Though snowfall is most common in winter, Ladakh occasionally surprises travellers with beautiful summer snow too.
Key Sights: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, BongBong La Snow Valley, Hemis National Park
Local Foods: Chhutagi, Tigmo, Momos, Thukpa, Khambir
Snow Months: December – February
Elevation: Around 3000 m
Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi
If you love winter travel, India has many more snowy places waiting to be explored. Some equally charming spots include:
- Almora (Uttarakhand) – The Kasar Devi temple here is must-visit pilgrim site.
- Katao (Sikkim) – Captures gorgeous beauty of the North-east
- Shimla & Kufri (Himachal Pradesh) – The classic areas known for their winter beauty
- Lambasingi (Andhra Pradesh) – Termed as the ‘Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh‘
- Munsiyari (Uttarakhand) – A snowfall wonderland during peak winters
Whether you’re dreaming of skiing in Auli, or dreamy pictures in Gulmarg, or watching the sunrise over snowy peaks in Ladakh, winter in India offers unforgettable experiences.
Ready to explore India’s snowfall destinations? Your winter adventure begins now!
FAQs on Places to Explore Snowfall in India
1. Which is the best place to see snowfall in India?
Gulmarg in Jammu & Kashmir is one of the best places to experience heavy snowfall, stunning views, and winter activities like skiing and gondola rides.
2. Which Indian places to visit as first-time snow travellers?
Places like Mussoorie, Shimla, Auli, Pahalgam and Gulmarg are great beginner-friendly destinations with easy accessibility, good hotels, and plenty of winter activities.
3. When to visit Ladakh for seeing snowfall?
To experience snowfall in Ladakh, the winter months from October to March make the best period, as Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri and Nubra Valley look spectacular when draped in white.