At some point in time as a child, we all have a dream to visit a place that is covered in a white blanket of snow like in a fantasy movie. The new year is around the corner so what else could be the best time to plan a vacation to witness this gorgeous sight of nature? Luckily from North India to the Northeast, we’ve plenty of destinations to experience snowfall in India.
Some are best for adventurous activities like Skiing, Snowboarding and many more while others are meant to be slow and peaceful where you could sit and enjoy the company of your soul. So, check out our list of best places to celebrate new year in India with snowfall and plan your winter Vacation with Travel Character.
Best Places To celebrate New Year In India
1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
When we talk about snowfall in India then Manali is one of the destinations that hit people’s minds. The surreal landscape, excellent climate, picturesque surroundings and adventurous activities make it a crowd-favorite destination. During peak winter when snowfall starts in Manali the landscape of Manali is a treat to witness.
The thick white layer of snow cover the entire surroundings and tall green trees of cedar turn white. And the best part about snowfall in Manali is that you can experience it from the balcony of your hotel, don’t need to go up or any specific place to experience it.
- Avg. Temperature – 1 to 10 degree Celsius
- Best time to experience snowfall in Manali – Late December to February.
- Things to do in and near Manali during snowfall – Visit Solang valley for adventurous activities like skiing, snowboarding, sledgeriding, gondola rides, paragliding, & camping, visit Sethan for Igloo stay and visit Gulaba village for more snow.
2. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
You can’t make a list of places to experience snowfall in India without including Gulmarg. The ease of access even in heavy snowfall pulls the crowd towards it. And the famous cable car of Gulmarg let you witness the picturesque landscape from the height of 13000 feet. This winter wonderland is a perfect place to live a fairy tale when the shimmering white snow starts falling out and in the blink of an eye, the surroundings get covered in the blanket of snow.
The snow festival of Gulmarg held during January & February every year would make your vacation adventurous. During this festival, lots of snow activities are organized with live music, amazing food and many more.
- Avg. Temperature – -4 to 11 degree Celsius
- Best time to see snowfall in Gulmarg – Late December to February
- Things to do in Gulmarg during snowfall – Enjoy the chilly vibe of Snow festival, skiing, snowboarding, take the famous cable car ride, Sledgeriding, visit the highest golf course in the world, visit the frozen lake – Alpather, trek to get scenic views and enjoy the delicious food.
3. Auli, Uttarakhand
Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Auli is one of the best places to experience snowfall. Set at an altitude of 2909 meters above sea level, Auli is regarded as the Ski Resort of India. Surrounded by snowy slopes and Himalayan peaks, Auli is like a European village.
Auli is heaven for Skiing lovers as you can take professional skiing classes as well. The adventurous skiing slopes attracts lots of professional and beginners alike.
Auli also offers spectacular views of one of the highest peaks in the Country named Nanda Devi Peak. Also, it is the getaway to the Valley of Flowers, Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, Nanda Devi National Park and Gorson Bugyal and Tapovan.
- Avg. Temperature – -2 to 10 degree Celsius
- Best time to visit Auli for Snow – January to March
- Things to do in and near Auli – Try your hands on Skiing, enjoy the longest and highest cable car in Asia, trek to Garson bugyal, visit Chattarkund lake, enjoy the beauty of Auli artificial lake, and take part in the National Alpine Skiing festival (Jan to Feb).
4. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Situated at a height of 2084 meters, Nainital is the most famous tourist attraction in Uttarakhand. The proximity to Delhi NCR makes it a perfect week getaway especially in winter when the surroundings get covered in white snow. This hilly town looks spectacular with snow. Sometimes due to low temperature, the lake gets frozen which also increases the enthusiasm among tourists. Other than there are plenty of things to do in Nainital.
- Avg. Temperature – 2 to 15 Degree Celsius
- Best time to visit Nainital for Snow – December to January.
- Things to do in and near Nainital – Enjoy the cable car ride to the snow view point, play with snowmen, enjoy the awesome views at Naini lake, attend the Nainital Winter Carnival, trekking and buy some warm clothes at Mall Road.
5. Tsongmo Lake, Gangtok, Sikkim
If this winter season you’re looking to get away from the crowded snowy regions then visit the higher region of Gangtok like Nathula Pass, Lachung, Lachen, Gurudongmar Lake and Chhangu lake. The tranquil surrounding with scenic snowy beauty will be a treat to watch.
During peak winter Chhangu and Gurudongmar Lake get frozen. Covered with a white layer of thick ice makes the lake more appealing. And the villages like Lachen and Lachung look wonderful during snowfall. The tranquility of these villages gives you the mental space that everyone craves in modern busy life. The amazing people, rich culture and gorgeous natural beauty everything is there.
- Avg. Temperature – 2 to 15 degree Celsius
- Best time for snowfall – December to February.
- Top Tourist Attractions – Nathula Pass, Gurudongmar Lake, Chhangu Lake, Lachen, Lachung, Cable care ride, Buddhists monastery, Hanuman Tok and Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple.
6. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
If you can tolerate cold temperatures and love to enjoy adventure then Tawang is waiting for you. Located in the north-west of Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is a remote destination famous for its wonderful landscape, rich culture and Buddhist monasteries. The milky white snow during the extreme winters makes the surroundings look more gorgeous like a fantasy movie scene.
Due to the high altitude, Tawang receives heavy snowfall during winters, so reaching it is difficult. The roads are narrow and with snow, it becomes difficult to drive and the real thrill comes when you don’t know what will happen next. So, if you are planning to visit Tawang during winter, do check the weather forecast and be prepared for a long drive and cold.
- Avg. Temperature – -5 to 10 degree Celsius
- Best time to visit Tawang for Snowfall – December to March
- Top Tourists Attractions of Tawang – Tawang monastery, Urgelling Gompa, Buddha Park, War Memorial, Bum La, Madhuri Lake, Pengang Teng Tso Lake, Zemithang Village, Jang waterfall and Sela Pass.
7. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
Situated in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, Munsiyari literally means a place with snow. Set amidst the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas, Munsiyari is famous for its amazing landscape, and adventurous treks. It is the base point of the Milam, Ralam and Namik glaciers. Due to that every year thousands of trekking enthusiastic visit Munsiyari. So, this winter if you want to witness the golden sunrise & sunset through the Himalayas then Visit Munsiyari.
- Avg. Temperature – -2 to 10 degree Celsius
- Best time to visit Munsiyari for snowfall – November to February
- Top things to do in Munsiyari – Trekking, bird watching, trek to Milam Glacier, enjoy the scenic beauty of Birthi falls, visit Mad Kot, Skiing, trek to Khalia top, visit religious temples and shopping.
8. Chopta, Uttarakhand – The Mini Switzerland Of Uttarakhand
Tucked amidst the mighty snow-capped Himalayas and evergreen meadows, Chopta is one of the best places to experience snowfall in India. Away from the crowded hill station Chopta is a secluded place that become free from plastic. Along with natural beauty, Chopta is famous for the Tungnath Temple – The Highest Shiva Temple in the world. It is the center of Panch Kedar (5 most sacred Shiva temples) – Kedarnath and Madmaheswar are located on the left, Rudranath and Kalpeshwar are on the right and Tungnath is located above it. Therefore, every year many devotees of Lord Shiva visit Chopta.
- Avg. Temperature – -5 to 9 degree Celsius
- Best time to visit Chopta for snowfall – January to Mid March
- Things to do in Chopta – Skiing, trekking, camping, trek to famous Tungnath Temple & Chandrashilla, enjoy the magnificent views of Trishul, Nanda Devi & Chaukhamba Peaks, visit Sari village, take the blessing of Goa at Ukhimath, visit Deori Tal, trek to Bisuri tal and explore the Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary.
9. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Situated at the height of 2745 meters, Spiti Valley is another fantastic place in Himachal that is famous for its magnificent landscape divided by the fast-flowing Spiti river, ancient monasteries and snow-capped mountains. Spiti is home to the highest post office in the world at the height of 14567 feet and the highest village in the world named Komic at the height of 15500 feet.
Every year Spiti gets fresh snowfall that turns this beautiful place into a winter wonderland. But due to heavy snowfall, some parts of Spiti get closed and you’ve to cover the distance by foot.
- Average Temperature – 8 to -10 degree Celsius
- Best time to visit Spiti for fresh snowfall – December to March
- Top things to do in Spiti Valley – Stargazing, visit the world’s highest post office, frozen waterfall climbing, camping at Chandratal, visit Pin Valley national park, visit Buddhist monasteries, trekking and bike trip to Baralacha Pass.
10. Dalhousie, Himachal
Famous for its natural beauty, tranquility and pleasant climate, Dalhousie is located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. Away from the noise and pollution of metro cities, this serene hill station is very popular among honeymoon couples. During winter this town receives fresh snowfall that paints the surrounding lush beauty into white color. It is fascinating to witness the mini Switzerland of India Khajjiar into the white blanket of snow. So, while planning the winter vacation do consider the Dalhousie.
- Avg. Temperature – 0 to 13 degree Celsius
- Best time to visit Dalhousie for snowfall – Later half of December to February
- Things to do in Dalhousie – Enjoy the gorgeous beauty of Khajjiar, skiing, sledgeriding, explore the beautiful churches, hike up to the Kalatop wildlife sanctuary, trek to the Ganji Pahari, visit Chamunda devi temple, and drive through the Garam sadak.
11. Almora, Uttarakhand
Being the cultural capital of the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Almora is famous for its cultural diversity, ancient temples, snow-capped mountains and delicious cuisines. Its stunning landscape attracts thousands of backpackers from all around. And the proximity of Delhi and Dehradun makes the way easier to reach. It is the cantonment zone and home to the Gorkha Rifles.
It is the best point for many popular treks like Ranikhet, Mukteshwar, Binsar, Mornaula and others. Also, it is the home of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary which attracts wildlife enthusiasts.
- Avg. Temperature – 2 to 14 degree Celsius
- Best time to visit Almora for Snowfall – January to last week of February
- Top things to do in Almora – Trekking, camping, visit Binsar Wildlife sanctuary, trek to the zero point, visit ancient temples, admire the gorgeous views from bright end corner, explore the Dwarahat village, and picnic at Kalimath.
12. Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
Situated just 20 KM away from the state capital Shimla, Kufri is one of the best places to visit in India for snow lovers. Kufri is regarded as the adventure hub of Himachal. The yearly winter sports festival is held in February here. Also, the Kufri amusement park is best for adventurous rides and various other activities.
Kufri along with Shimla and Chail forms the Golden Triangle of Himachal. Therefore, if you’re tired of the traffic of Shimla then Kufri is the perfect alternative for you.
During winter many tourists visit Kufri to celebrate Christmas and New Year. So, if you’re planning a vacation in the last week of December, make sure you book the hotels in advance.
- Avg. Temperature – 1 to 14 degree Celsius
- Best time to visit Kufri for Snowfall – December to February
- Top Tourist Attractions In Kufri – Mahasu peak, green valley, trekking, camping, yak rides, Skiing, Jakhu temple, Kufri amusement park, Hatu peak, Tobogganing and Indira tourists park.
13. Jalori Pass, Jibhi, Himachal
If you want to experience the real thrill in life then visit Jalori pass this winter season. Away from the boring city life, Jalori pass is the perfect destination for peace seekers. Situated at a height of 3120 meters, Jalori pass lies in the Kullu district of Himachal.
From December to March the beauty of Jalori pass at its peak when the fresh snow covers the surroundings. There is a temple at the top of the pass and some eateries as well where you can enjoy hot tea and maggie. In peak winter landscape becomes pristine and the pine trees give you a very Christmassy feel with snowy powder hanging on the branches.
But sometimes due to heavy snowfall pass get closed. So, check the weather and news before leaving. However, there are 2 offbeat villages near the Jalori pass where you can stay – Jibhi is just 12 KM away and Shoja is just 5 km away.
- Avg. Temperature – 2 to 10 15 degree Celsius
- Best time to visit Jalori Pass for Snowfall – December to March
- Things to do in and near the pass – Trek to serolsar lake, hike to the Raghupur fort, explore the Tirthan valley, visit the Jibhi & Shoja village, skiing, sledge riding, and enjoy the hot maggie.
14. Patnitop, Jammu & Kashmir
Located in the Udhampur district of Jammu & Kashmir, Patnitop lies on the wonderful plateau across which passes Jammu and Kashmir. Surrounded by thickly wooded forests, Patnitop offers ample opportunities for tourists like a peaceful walk, amazing treks, spectacular views and fresh snowfall. Patnitop has three fresh water springs. And the thick fresh snowfall in winter is the major tourist attraction of the town.
- Avg. Temperature – 2 to 15 degree Celsius
- Best time to visit Patnitop for Snowfall – November to February
- Top tourist attractions of Patnitop – Skyview ropeway, Sanasar lake, Nathatop, Nag Mandir, Sudh Mahadev temple, Mantalai Temple, trek to the Madhatop and trek to the shiv Garh.
15. Ladakh
Most people think that Ladakh is not accessible during winter that’s why Ladakh seems empty in winter. But Ladakh is very much accessible during peak winter as well. And it could be the best time to visit for the adventurous soul as there is less crowd so you’ll have all the stunning landscape to yourself.
Visiting Ladakh during winter is a completely different experience; the lakes get frozen, brown land turns into white and you’ll get value for money. But winter can be very harsh as sometimes the temperature can be low at -30 degrees Celsius. So, be prepared for freezing cold weather. Due to extreme cold, there will be no running water in taps. But all are going worth when you witness the white blanket of snow over the barren lands. The frozen lakes look magnificent, so ready with the camera.
- Avg. Temperature – -5 to 10 degree Celsius
- Best time to visit Ladakh for snowfall – December to March
- Top things to do in Ladakh – Take a Chadar trek & walk over the frozen Zanskar river, visit Pangong & Tso Moriri lakes, enjoy the breathtaking views, visit Hemis National Park, explore the Nubra Valley, take Snow leopard trek, and explore the Buddhists monasteries.
Travel Tips
- Do check the weather forecast as the temperature of some places can be minus as well and there is no running tap water.
- Drive at places like Spiti, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Tawang if you’ve enough experience otherwise hire a driver. As the thick layer of snow makes the road slippery therefore the chances of accidents are high.
- Sometimes places like Jalori Pass, Gulmarg, Tawang, and Ladakh get closed due to heavy snowfall. So, it’s always good to have an extra day in the buffer.
- Get ready to stuck in traffic.
- Pack some heavy woolens, gloves, caps and water resistant & trekking shoes, windproof jackets and socks.
- Keep extra food.
- Keep a first aid box.
- Carry an extra power bank, sunglasses, sunscreen and moisturizer.
- Book your stay in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to experience snowfall near Delhi?
There are many places near delhi where you can see the fresh snowfall like Manali, Shimla, Kufri, Narkanda, Nainital, Mussoorie, Dalhousie, Mcleodganj, Auli, Chopta, Almora, Kausani and Ranikhet.
What are the best offbeat destinations to experience snowfall in India?
Lachen & Lachung village, Chopta, Tawang, Almora, Kausani, Jalori Pass, Khajjiar and Kufri are some of the most beautiful offbeat destinations to experience snowfall in India.
What are the best places to see snowfall in India in January?
Munsiyari, Binsar, Jalori Pass, Manali, Narkanda, Tawang, Chitkul, Ladakh Spiti, Lachen and Lachung villages are the top places to experience snowfall in India in January.