As 2023 marches on, winter is around the corner, and it is a perfect time for you, dear reader and fellow adventurer, to set your sights on a remarkable experience of witnessing the beauty of snowfall. In a country where many regions rarely witness snowfall, few things in life can compare to the magic of your first encounter with falling snowflakes.
For those of us who’ve grown up watching our favourite on-screen couples sing and dance amidst the snow in Bollywood movies, the idea of being part of such enchanting scenes becomes irresistible. The allure of visiting these iconic locales, where on-screen love blossomed against the backdrop of glistening snow, is a dream many of us cherish.
The best part is you don’t have to travel far for this magical experience. India itself has a selection of premier snowfall destinations waiting to be explored. So, pack your winter essentials and embark on a journey with us through this article, serving as your trusty guide to some of India’s most stunning snow places.
So, wait no more and book your Thomas Cook India tour packages to visit and experience the magic of the top 10 best snowfall places in India for the coming 2023 winter!
1. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
One of the top snowfall places in India in 2023 is Gulmarg, the ‘Meadow of Flowers’ in Jammu & Kashmir .
Gulmarg isn’t just a destination but an invitation to explore your adventurous side. Gulmarg is a paradise for thrill-seekers, offering adrenaline-pumping activities like skiing and snowboarding. What sets Gulmarg apart is that it is also home to the Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering, which offers courses on adventure sports, including trekking, mountaineering, and skiing.
If you want something else, you can opt for a Gulmarg Gondola Ride, the second-highest in the world, and enjoy the panoramic views covered in snow.
Remember that accommodations in Gulmarg can fill up quickly when planning your visit. It’s advisable to book your hotel in advance to secure your stay. Alternatively, you can stay in Srinagar for budget-friendly options and arrange a taxi to transport you to Gulmarg.
Gulmarg enjoys excellent connectivity and is accessible via train, flight, and road. While Srinagar serves as the base station, if you have the luxury of time, consider embarking on a picturesque bus journey from Delhi and reach Gulmarg. This route treats you to awe-inspiring vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure at one of the best snowfall places in India.
Snow Season: October – March
Top places to visit: Apharwat Peak, Drung Waterfall, Glass Igloo Cafe, Tangmarg, Strawberry Valley, etc.
Must-try foods: Dum Aloo, Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Modur Pulaav, Raazma Gogji, Sheer Chai, and Kehwah.
2. Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli, in Uttarakhand , is one of the top snow places in India to visit for its ski slopes and breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi mountain range.
Its slopes are perfect for a skiing adventure. Auli is the hub of many skiing festivals and championships and is considered the ‘skiing destination of India.” When you are done with your adventures, take leisure walks amid apple orchards and oak trees. You can also indulge in activities like camping, trekking, or launching in the popular Auli ropeway!
As many ski resorts dot the landscape, you won’t have trouble booking accommodation in Aulio. Auli offers magnificent views of Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat that you can enjoy from your hotel room.
Since Auli is located in the land of Gods, Uttarakhand, you can also connect with your spiritual side by visiting Badrinath.
Snow Season: December to March
Top places to visit: Joshimath, Gurso Bugyal, Chenab Lake, Rudraprayag, etc .
Must-try Food: Garhwali cuisines, Kachamauli, Bal Mithai, and Singhauri.
3. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
Tucked away in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region, Munsiyari is a quaint hamlet with the potential to be at the top of the best snowfall places in India.
Munsiyari is a lesser-known gem for winter enthusiasts. It might not be as crowded as other hill stations, which makes it so special. It is known as Little Kashmir for a reason. It offers a gorgeous view of some mighty Himalayan peaks, like Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Panchachuli, which are enveloped in snow throughout the year.
It also serves as the entry point to Johar Valley, the ancient route for trade business between India and Tibet. There is considerable snow here, especially during the winter months.
Munsiyari’s name translates to “a place of snow,” and it lives up to that reputation. Winter here is a serene wonderland, perfect for snow lovers. You can trek through snow-covered trails, possibly catch a glimpse of the elusive Snow Leopard, immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the surroundings, or visit the nearby towns like Thamri Kund and Madkot, known for their hot springs. Enjoy the experience of immersing in these springs to warm you up in the wintery days and nights!
A 10-12-hour cab ride from Haldwani, with a stop recommended in Almora to acclimatise, will lead you to this snow paradise. If you are looking for an offbeat winter escape, Munsiyari awaits – where every snowflake tells a story of the Himalayas’ timeless beauty.
Snow Season: December to February
Top places to visit: Madkot, Thamri Kund, Johar Valley, Nanda Devi Temple, Maheshwari Kund, Birthi Falls, Pithoragarh, etc.
Must-try food: Kumaoni food comprising rice, Bhatt ki dal, Raita, papad, and more.
4. Katao, Sikkim
At an impressive elevation of approximately 15,000 feet above sea level, Katao has an abundant snow cover that draws in adventurers and nature lovers who love skiing, trekking, and camping.
Katao is a little-known place that deserves mention in the most beautiful snowfall places in India list. The beauty of the place during snowfall often draws comparison to Switzerland and has earned it the moniker ‘Switzerland of Sikkim ‘.
The journey to Katao is an adventure in itself. Situated 144 km from another renowned snowfall destination, Gangtok, Katao requires an army permit for visitation.
Snow Season: December to February
Top places to visit: Gangtok and Lachung
Must-try food: Momo, Thukpa, Curry, Gundruk, etc.
5. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is a hidden gem of the Northeast and one of the most gorgeous abodes of snow in India. From snow-clad mountains to rambling waterfalls, lush forests and a 400-year-old monastery, this town must be on the list of your top 10 best snow places in India!
If you choose Tawang as your go-to place to witness snowfall in 2023, extending your trip to the very popular Sela Pass is highly recommended. Sela Pass is known for its frozen lake, adventure sports like ice skating and skiing, and scenic beauty. Heavy snowfall can often close Sela Pass; therefore, if you are lucky enough to get this rare opportunity to see the beauty of Sela Pass, click lots of pictures to memorialise this visit. It also goes without saying that you should remember to pack extra jackets!
Snow Season: December and January
Top places to visit: Sela Pass, Tawang Monastery, Nuranang Falls, Gorichen Peak, and Madhuri Lake.
Must-try food: Thukpa, Dumpling, Gyapa Khazi, Zan, Paratha Sabzi, etc.
6. Sonamarg, Jammu & Kashmir
At 9000 ft above sea level, the scenic Sonamarg is full of white snow blanketing meadows and the peaks of the Zanskar Range. Sonamarg is an ideal location for winter sports, like skiing, snow trekking, and snowboarding.
If you are a thrill seeker, trekking to the frozen Sindh River should be on your list when visiting Sonamarg. Next, take advantage of hiking and camping in Thajiwas Glacier, which is enveloped in snow throughout the year.
Sonamarg is one of the best snow places in India because of the presence of snow, even during the summer months! The snow in summer provides an ideal opportunity for those who want to experience the snow sans the bitter cold of the winters of Sonamarg.
The stunning Sonamarg is also home to various winter treks, including the Gangabal Lake trek, Satsaran Pass, Nichinal Pass, Zoji-La Pass, and Kashmir Great Lakes. If you want to do something offbeat, go white water rafting, which starts from Baltal and ends at Shutkari Bridge.
Snow Season: November to April
Top places to visit: Thajiwas Glacier, Zoji-La Pass, Sonmarg Market, Baltal Valley, and more.
Must-try food: Marcha-Wangan Korma, Modur Pulaav, Kaanti, Syoon Olav, and Matschgand.
7. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Located in the picturesque Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Nainital ranks among the most popular hill stations and is known for its gorgeous winters.
At about 6400 feet above sea level, Nainital transforms into a winter wonderland in November. The summers make it just as appealing with the colonial-era architecture, charming streets, and lush greenery of summer.
Nainital offers an assortment of winter activities for travellers, including snowball fights, leisurely strolls along Mall Road, and boat rides on the partially frozen Naini Lake. Snow View Point and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary are also popular spots for enjoying the breathtaking views and spotting winter migratory birds.
Snow Season: November to January
Top places to visit: Snow View Point, Mall Road, Naini Lake, Tiffin Top, Bhimtal, and more.
Must-try food: Momos, noodles, filter coffee, Ras, Indian, Italian, Continental dishes, etc.
8. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla , known for its picturesque streets, colonial-era architecture, and timeless charm, has many endearing nicknames. Often hailed as the “Queen of Hills” for its picturesque landscapes, it is also known as the “Summer Capital of British India” due to its colonial history and pleasant climate. As a popular destination among honeymooners, Shimla is also known as the “Honeymoon Capital of India.”
This capital of Himachal Pradesh has thick layers of snow during winter and stunning views of snow-covered peaks. If you want seclusion to play in the snow, book a drive to Kufri, a small hill station near Shimla with skiing, horse riding, and snowboarding opportunities.
The Mahasu Peak in Kufri offers amazing views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges and valleys. Visiting Shimla offers a chance to visit other hill stations close by, like Mashobra, Kasauli, and Chail, as they also receive snowfall.
You can reach Shimla via bus, train, or flight. However, add more fun to your journey by booking the Kalka Shimla toy train to enjoy the snow-filled landscape of Shimla.
Snow Season: December to February
Top places to visit: Chadwick Waterfalls, Jakhu Temple, Mall Road, The Ridge, Kufri, Green Valley, and more.
Must-try food: Momos, thukpa, noodles, Indian cuisines, Chinese food, Italian, continental cuisines, and Himachal Thali.
9. Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh
Located in the Eastern Ghats, Andhra Pradesh , Lambasingi is often referred to as the Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh. While snowfall is not guaranteed every year, when it does occur, it blankets the landscape in a breathtaking display of pure white.
Some of the top attractions in this hill station would include visiting Kothapalli Waterfalls, Susan Garden tour, leisure walks on the Ghat Road, or simply enjoying the town painted in white during the winter. Located in the Eastern Ghats, Andhra Pradesh, Lambasingi, which is often referred to as the Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh. While snowfall is not guaranteed every year, when it does occur, it blankets the landscape in a breathtaking display of pure white.
Carrying a Telugu-to-English translator app on your phone is advisable, as some locals may not be fluent in other Indian languages. Rest assured, you will have a magical time in Lambasingi’s snow.
Snow Season: November to January
Top places to visit: Kothapalli Waterfalls, Susan Garden, Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary, etc.
Must-try food: Bongulo Chicken
10. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
From Mall Road to Landour, each and every corner of Mussoorie is covered in snow during winter. In terms of popularity, Mussoorie certainly tops the list of best snow places in India!
Mussoorie is the perfect weekend getaway during the winter season and offers many activities, including, trekking, camping, zip lining, star gazing, and more. If you do not enjoy the hustle and bustle of the Mall, you can trek to Landour, the cantonment area of Mussoorie, and home of Mr. Ruskin Bond, India’s beloved writer and storyteller.
You can also book colonial-style bungalows to enjoy the snowfall from your window or sit in a cosy cafe, like Landour Bakehouse, to soak in the beauty of a white winter surrounding the pine and oak trees.
Snow Season: December to February
Top places to visit: Laal Tibba, Camel’s Back Road, Mall Road, Landour, etc.
Must-try food: Dumplings, Thukpa, Tibetan cuisines, Indian food, and more.
The Takeaway
Now that you know the top 10 snow places in India to visit in 2023, you can book Thomas Cook’s top India tour packages to get customised itineraries that fit your idea of fun and adventure. So, waste no time and contact our trip curators today! These snowfall destinations in India offer a diverse range of experiences. India has everything whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or quiet moments in a winter wonderland.
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