Planning a trip should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Yet choosing destinations, managing bookings, and building the perfect itinerary often becomes stressful. That’s where Wandertrust steps in. If you’ve been dreaming of snow-covered mountains, white valleys, and crisp winter air, this guide is for you.
India offers several stunning destinations where snowfall transforms landscapes into winter wonderlands. From famous hill stations to adventure-packed ski resorts, these places attract travellers every winter. This blog covers the top 10 snowfall places in India, explaining what makes each destination special and when to visit for the best snow experience.
Top 10 Snowfall Places in India
- Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
- Auli, Uttarakhand
- Manali, Himachal Pradesh
- Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
- Leh-Ladakh
- Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir
- Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
- Nainital, Uttarakhand
- Sonamarg, Jammu & Kashmir
- Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand
Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
Gulmarg is one of the best snowfall places in India, known for heavy snowfall and scenic Himalayan views. Gulmarg, meaning “Meadow of Flowers,” is located about 60 km from Srinagar, a roughly 1.5-hour drive away.
The Gulmarg Gondola, the world’s highest cable car, is a major attraction. Phase one reaches Kongdori Station at 8,530 ft. Phase two goes up to 12,293 ft.
- Tourists can enjoy horse riding to Strawberry Valley, Leopard Valley, and Kongdori to see the frozen Alpather Lake.
- In winter, Gulmarg becomes a ski destination, with natural slopes ideal for experienced skiers.
- It is considered the best place in India to see snowfall, especially in December and February. Here are the best places to visit in India in December.
- Festivities like White Christmas and New Year’s add to the experience.
How to Reach Gulmarg
- By Air: Srinagar Airport, 54 km away
- By Train: Baramulla railhead, 53 km away
- By Road: 54 km from Srinagar, 410 km from Jammu
Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli is one of India’s top 10 snowfall destinations, renowned for skiing and panoramic Himalayan views. Located in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, Auli, also known as Auli Bugyal or “meadow,” sits at an elevation of 2,500 to 3,050 meters.
Auli is among the best snowfall places in India, especially from January to March, when the slopes receive nearly 3 meters of snow. This period often reflects current snowfall across the Himalayan region of India. The 3 km ski stretch with a 500-meter elevation drop meets international standards, making it a major draw during snowfall in India.
- Peaks like Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Dunagiri form a dramatic backdrop.
- Skiing festivals, including national championships, add to its appeal, along with ropeway rides, snowman building, and snowball fights.
- Auli is widely recognised as one of India’s leading snowfall destinations.
How to Reach Auli
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, 279 km
- By Train: Rishikesh railhead, about 250 km
- By Road: 16 km from Joshimath; buses and taxis available
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is one of the most popular snowfall places in India, known for snow-covered mountains and alpine landscapes. Located near the end of the Kullu Valley, Manali lies about 45 km from Kullu and is internationally known for its natural beauty.
Forests, streams, orchards, and birdsong surround the town, with snow-capped peaks dominating the backdrop. Manali also marks the start of an ancient trade route that crosses the Rohtang and Baralacha passes toward Lahaul, Ladakh, and Kashmir, with a connecting road to Spiti. Today, motorable roads link Manali to Leh, Pangi Valley, and Kaza during summer.
How to Reach Manali
- By Air: Kullu–Manali Airport, 50 km
- By Train: Joginder Nagar (160 km), Kiratpur (240 km)
- By Road: Well connected by HRTC buses, private buses, and taxis
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla is known for colonial charm and snow-covered hills. The capital of Himachal Pradesh and the former summer capital of British India, Shimla is surrounded by green hills and snow-capped peaks.
- Colonial-era buildings such as the Viceregal Lodge, Auckland House, Gorton Castle, Peterhoff House, and Gaiety Theatre define the town’s character.
- Key attractions include the Himachal State Museum and Library, Botanical Gardens, Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, The Ridge, The Mall, Summer Hill, Glen, and Taradevi Temple.
How to Reach Shimla
- By Air: Chandigarh Airport, 120 km; Jubbarhatti Airport, 23 km
- By Train: Kalka–Shimla narrow-gauge railway, about 6 hours
- By Road: Well connected by buses and taxis from major cities
Leh-Ladakh
Ladakh is one of the most unique snowfall places in India, known for extreme landscapes, adventure, and winter beauty. Located in the Himalayan arc, Ladakh stands apart for its geo-climatic diversity, high-altitude deserts, and strong cultural identity.
Tourism began here in 1974 and has since become the backbone of the region’s economy. Today, tourism contributes over 60% of Ladakh’s revenue, with hotels, guest houses, homestays, and camps spread across the Leh district. During winter, snowfall in India transforms Ladakh into a dramatic white terrain.
- Ladakh is popular for activities like trekking, skiing, ice climbing, river rafting, mountain biking, camel safaris, and jeep safaris.
How to Reach Leh (Ladakh)
- By Air: Daily flights from Delhi; seasonal flights from Srinagar and Chandigarh
- By Road:
- Srinagar–Leh Highway (May to Nov/Dec)
- Manali–Leh Highway (May/June to Sept/Oct)
Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir
Located in the northeast of Anantnag district in Jammu and Kashmir, Pahalgam is surrounded by forested hills and alpine landscapes. The Lidder Nallah flowing through the valley adds to its appeal, while the cool climate makes it ideal for rest and recovery. Pahalgam also serves as a key transit point for the Amarnath Yatra, with the holy cave located about 72 km away.
In the peak winter months, snowfall in December and February in India makes Pahalgam a preferred stop for travellers seeking peaceful snow views rather than crowded ski hubs.
How to Reach Pahalgam
- By Air: Srinagar International Airport, 96 km away
- By Train: Udhampur (217 km) or Jammu (285 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Jammu, Srinagar, and Anantnag
Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
Located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, Kufri lies about 20 km from Shimla on National Highway 22. The name Kufri comes from the local word kufr, meaning lake.
During winter, snowfall in India transforms Kufri into a lively destination for tourists seeking a snow experience near Shimla. It is part of the famous Golden Triangle of Himachal Pradesh, along with Shimla and Chail. Kufri also serves as a base for treks to Fagu, Shimla, Manali, and Rewalsar. The annual winter sports festival held in February makes it a highlight among snowfall tourist places in India.
Adventure lovers can visit Kufri Fun World, an amusement park known for family-friendly rides and the world’s highest go-kart track.
How to Reach Kufri
- By Road: 20 km from Shimla
- Taxis available from Old Bus Stand or ISBT Shimla
- Frequent Himachal Road Transport buses from Lakkar Bazar
Nainital, Uttarakhand
Often called the “Lake District of India,” Nainital is set around the famous Naini Lake, surrounded by forested hills and scenic viewpoints. During winter, snowfall in India transforms the town into a postcard-worthy destination, making it one of the bestplaces in India for families and couples.
Located in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region, Nainital is the district and divisional headquarters. Nearby attractions include Bhimtal, Sattal, Naukuchiatal, Mukteshwar, Ramgarh, and Bhowali, all known for significant snowfall during the peak winter months. Ancient texts, such as the Skanda Purana, mention Nainital as theTri-Rishi-Sarovar, adding cultural depth to its natural beauty.
How to Reach Nainital
- By Train: Kathgodam (35 km) is the nearest railhead, well connected to Delhi and major cities.
- By Road: Direct buses and taxis from Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, and Lucknow.
- By Air: Pantnagar Airport (70 km) with flights from Delhi.
Sonamarg, Jammu & Kashmir
The name Sonamarg means “Meadow of Gold,” but in winter, heavy snowfall transforms the region into a white landscape, with snow-covered mountains and clear blue skies. When roads reopen in late April, visitors can still expect lingering snow.
The Sindh River flows through Sonamarg and is known for trout fishing. A major attraction is the Thajiwas Glacier, accessible by a hired taxi or pony ride, as private vehicles are not permitted. Sonamarg also serves as a base for treks to the Vishansar, Krishansar, Gangabal, Gadsar, and Satsar lakes.
Baltal, 15 km away, is the base camp for the Amarnath Yatra and is near Zoji La Pass, the route to Leh.
How to Reach Sonamarg
- By Air: Srinagar Airport, 102 km
- By Train: Jammu (360 km), Udhampur (293 km)
- By Road: 87 km from Srinagar via NH-1D
Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand
Dhanaulti is a quiet hill destination and one of India’s lesser-known snowfall destinations, ideal for travellers seeking peace and natural beauty. Surrounded by dense Deodar, Rhododendron, and Oak forests, Dhanaulti offers calm surroundings, fresh mountain air, and views of snow-covered peaks during winter.
Located on the Mussoorie–Chamba route, Dhanaulti lies 24 km from Mussoorie and 29 km from Chamba. During the winter months, light to moderate snowfall makes it one of the peaceful snowfall tourist destinations in India, especially for those seeking to avoid crowded resorts. The cool climate, forest trails, and scenic slopes make it suitable for relaxed walks and nature stays rather than adventure sports. Basic accommodation options include tourist rest houses, forest rest houses, and guesthouses.
How to Reach Dhanaulti
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, 82 km
- By Train: Dehradun Railway Station, 25 km
- By Road: Well connected via Mussoorie (33 km) with taxis and buses available
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Frequently Asked Questions
Snowfall in India usually occurs between December and February, depending on the destination.
Places like Gulmarg, Manali, and Shimla are ideal for first-time snow experiences.
Yes, snowfall occurs every year in the Himalayan regions, but intensity varies by season.
Yes. Snowfall in December in India begins in higher-altitude destinations.
Yes. Many snowfall tourist places in India offer safe activities, resorts, and easy access.