As winter sets in over northern India, some magic transformation happens, especially in the high altitude regions. Snow covers mountains, forests and small towns, making them into winter wonderlands. There are many places to visit in winter in india, Whether you are looking for adventure on snow clad slopes or peaceful escapes into nature’s icy arms. India’s hill stations and mountains have something for everyone.
The beauty of snowfall and winter activities is an experience to remember. From skiing in the Himalayas to watching snowflakes fall in quiet hill towns. Here are the best places to visit in winter for the perfect snowfall experience.
Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
The winter wonderland of India, Gulmarg is nestled in the Pir Panjal range. In winter it becomes a snow paradise and the crown jewel for all snow and adventure lovers. What makes it special is its world class skiing facilities and it attracts travellers from all over the world. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, takes you up to Apharwat Peak. where you can ski down the slopes covered with powder snow.
Beyond skiing Gulmarg is perfect for long walks in snow clad pine forests and snow capped landscapes. The breathtaking views of the Himalayas is the icing on the cake. Gulmarg is one of the best places to visit in winter in India as its is not just an adventure hub but also a destination for those seeking peace and beauty.
Distance from Delhi: 855 km
Best Time to See Snowfall: December to March
Must-Visit Attractions: Apharwat Peak, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Alpather Lake
Adventure Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, heli-skiing, snowshoeing, gondola rides
Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli is a winter wonderland, especially for skiers. Located in Garhwal region, Auli offers views of some of the highest peaks of India, Nanda Devi and Nar Parvat. So it’s not just an adventure destination but a scenic getaway too. The snow clad slopes of Auli are famous for their beauty and gentle slopes and is perfect for both beginners and experts.
If you are not into skiing, the region offers plenty of opportunities for snow trekking, camping and just soaking in the Himalayan views. The Auli ropeway, one of the longest in Asia, gives you a bird’s eye view of the snow clad landscapes below.
Distance from Delhi: 512 km
Best Time for Snowfall: Late December to February
Must-Visit Attractions: Gurso Bugyal, Joshimath, Auli Artificial Lake
Adventure Activities: Skiing, snow trekking, camping, snowshoeing
Nainital, Uttarakhand
Hills and Naini Lake surround Nainital and in winter it takes on a whole new avatar. The colonial architecture and light snowfall make Nainital a romantic winter getaway. It doesn’t snow heavily like Gulmarg or Auli but the gentle snowflakes bring in a magical atmosphere to the town, snow dusting the trees and roads.
A cable car ride to Snow View Point offers breathtaking views of snow capped peaks and a stroll down the Mall Road with a hot cup of coffee is the cherry on the cake of a winter holiday here. For some adventure, there’s snow trekking and for those looking for a peaceful retreat. There are many Places to Visit in Nainital and some quieter parts of the town like Tiffin Top or Eco Cave Gardens.
Distance from Delhi: 315 km
Best Time for Snowfall: Late December to January
Must-Visit Attractions: Naini Lake, Tiffin Top, Snow View Point, Eco Cave Gardens
Adventure Activities: Snow trekking, nature walks, bird watching, boating
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla is the epitome of colonial charm and picturesque surroundings and in winter it turns into a snow wonderland. The Ridge, the famous Mall Road and the Jakhoo Temple are all covered in snow and the town looks like a postcard. The Shimla Ice Skating Club, the oldest natural ice-skating rink in Asia is the hub of activity during this time. Shimla is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and easy accessibility. Travellers can conveniently reach Shimla by hiring Delhi to Shimla Tempo Traveller, making it an ideal choice for a scenic getaway.
Kufri, a small town just outside Shimla is famous for adventure sports and offers great opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Shimla is perfect for honeymooners and families alike with cozy cafes and colonial buildings to provide the perfect setting for a snowy escape.
Distance from Delhi: 350 km
Best Time for Snowfall: December to February
Must-Visit Attractions: Jakhoo Temple, The Ridge, Mall Road, Kufri
Adventure Activities: Ice skating, snowboarding, snow trekking, skiing
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Queen of Hills, Mussoorie looks stunning in winters. Snowfall here is not as heavy as in Auli or Gulmarg but enough to make Mussoorie a cozy and beautiful retreat. The colonial charm of the town is enhanced by the snow, with landmarks like Gun Hill and Camel’s Back Road, being the perfect spots to enjoy the views of snow-clad Doon Valley and distant Himalayas.
Delhi to Mussoorie Distance is around 282 km from Delhi, making it one of the top places to visit in winter near Delhi. It is also famous for its nature walks where you can walk through the snow dusted woods and hills and have a peaceful experience.
Distance from Delhi: 282 km
Best Time for Snowfall: December to mid-February
Must-Visit Attractions: Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road, Lal Tibba, Kempty Falls
Adventure Activities: Snow trekking, cable car rides, hiking, nature walks
Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Hidden in the Kangra Valley, Dharamshala is a perfect blend of nature and spirituality. During winters the Dhauladhar range, which is the backdrop of this town, is snow clad and offers stunning views. Famous for its Tibetan culture and being the home of the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala is a peaceful retreat in the midst of snow. The serene atmosphere of the Tibetan monasteries and the thrill of snow trekking makes Dharamshala emerges as one of the great places to visit in India during winter. It also a great destination for both adventure seekers and those looking for spiritual solace. Triund is one of the most popular trekking routes, becomes a snow trail in winter and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Distance from Delhi: 470 km
Best Time for Snowfall: December to February
Must-Visit Attractions: Bhagsu Falls, Dal Lake, Norbulingka Institute, Triund
Adventure Activities: Snow trekking, paragliding, Triund trek, nature walks
Also Read: A Beautiful Winter Destination to Must Visit- Agra
Chopta, Uttarakhand
Tucked away in Garhwal a small village Chopta is an offbeat gem called the “Mini Switzerland of India”. With snow covered meadows, tall pine trees and Himalayan peaks in the background, Chopta is a winter escape like no other. The peaceful atmosphere here is perfect for those who want to enjoy snow away from the crowds. Tungnath and Chandrashila treks become even more scenic in winter. The entire trail is covered in snow and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Whether you are an adventure junkie or a nature lover, Chopta’s beauty and seclusion are a must visit in winter.
Distance from Delhi: 428 km
Best Time for Snowfall: December to March
Must-Visit Attractions: Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Peak, Deoria Tal
Adventure Activities: Snow trekking, bird watching, camping
Jalori Pass, Himachal Pradesh
If you want to have a snow adventure this winter then Jalori Pass is a treasure you haven’t discovered yet. Located at a high altitude Jalori Pass becomes a gateway to winter adventure. The path to the pass is full of snow covered forests and cliffs, it’s a perfect destination for trekkers and nature lovers. The nearby Serolsar Lake is frozen most of the time in winter and adds to the beauty of the region. Jalori Pass is isolated and untouched so if you want to have a raw winter experience away from the crowd of other tourist places.
Distance from Delhi: 475 km
Best Time for Snowfall: January to February
Must-Visit Attractions: Serolsar Lake, Raghupur Fort, Shoja Village
Adventure Activities: Snow trekking, camping, hiking
Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
Just an hour from Shimla, Kufri is a snow wonderland for adventure lovers. Famous for its beauty and winter sports, Kufri has become a hot destination for tourists looking for snow fun. The slopes are gentle for skiing and snowboarding and is a great place for families. Kufri Fun World at the highest point of the area is a great place to see the snow all around and is perfect for sledding and tobogganing. The snow-covered mountains and forests make Kufri one of the best places to escape in winter with plenty of adventure and relaxation.
Distance from Delhi: 365 km
Best Time for Snowfall: December to February
Must-Visit Attractions: Mahasu Peak, Himalayan Nature Park, Kufri Fun World
Adventure Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, snow trekking
Tips to Plan a Perfect Winter Trip
December and January are peak tourist season in India when people plan a family trip to places with snowfall. To plan a perfect winter trip in India, it is important to decide about the place and month to visit. Hotels and transportation booking in advance is also essential to avoid unavailability. If you are planning to enjoy skiing or snowboarding activities, well research about rates and keep enough time in your hands to enjoy them very well. Pack winter stuff properly as weather can change suddenly.
Final Thoughts
India’s winter wonderland has so much to offer, from snow sports in Auli and Gulmarg to peaceful snow covered getaways in Chopta and Mussoorie. Each destination has its own charm and offers a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility making it a winter lover’s paradise. Whether you’re skiing down the slopes or just soaking in the beauty of snow covered landscapes these destinations promise a winter to remember. Don’t let this winter slip away! Visit these stunning destinations by Renting Tempo Traveller Hire in Delhi with your family or friends and enjoy an unforgettable snowfall experience in the most beautiful settings.
