Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Winters in India transform several destinations into snow-covered retreats, attracting travellers seeking adventure and relaxation. Visitors can ski down Gulmarg’s powdery slopes, ice skating in Shimla, or trek through Munsiyari’s winter trails. Auli and Sonamarg remain covered in snow for months, offering a true winter escape, while Nainital sees occasional snowfall, adding to its scenic appeal. These hill stations in India with snowfall provide opportunities for thrilling sports and peaceful getaways, allowing travellers to experience breathtaking winter landscapes and the crisp mountain air.
Top 10 Hill Stations In India With Snowfall
Here are ten hill stations in India where you can witness snowfall:
1. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
Photo: Zahoor Bhat / Wikimedia Commons
Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir is among the top hill stations in India with snowfall, receiving heavy snow from December to March. This winter wonderland is a paradise for skiing, snowboarding, and sledging enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of snow-covered landscapes. This town is also home to Asia’s longest cable car, the Gulmarg Gondola, which takes visitors to Apharwat Peak, offering breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscape. The area features well-maintained slopes suitable for all skill levels, while the Indian Army operates a ski school for beginners.
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Photo: Shameer Thajudeen / Wikimedia Commons
Manali, situated in the Kullu Valley, experiences heavy snowfall from December to February, attracting tourists who seek winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and trekking. Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley, located nearby, are well-known for their snow-covered slopes and adventure sports, drawing visitors from across the country. In addition to this, the town features several historical and cultural landmarks, including the 450-year-old Hadimba Temple, which looks particularly striking when surrounded by snow.
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, Kullu
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station
3. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Photo: Smitanarang / Wikimedia Commons
Shimla, one of the hill stations in India with snowfall, receives moderate snow from December to February, turning it into a winter destination known for its scenic views and historic sites. Mall Road, a 1.6-kilometre stretch with colonial-era buildings, becomes a hub for walks, shopping, and cafes, with snow-covered pathways enhancing the experience. Christ Church, built in 1857, stands out with its neo-Gothic architecture against the snowy backdrop, while the Kalka-Shimla narrow-gauge toy train, passing through 102 tunnels, continues running despite the cold. Kufri, 14 kilometres away, offers well-maintained slopes for heavier snowfall and winter sports.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport, Jubbarhatti
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station
4. Auli, Uttarakhand
Photo: Amit Shaw / Wikimedia Commons
Auli is one of India’s top skiing destinations, receiving consistent snowfall from December to March, making it ideal for amateur and professional skiers. Its ski slopes span over three kilometres and feature modern ski lifts, while rental facilities provide essential gear. Beginners can train with professional instructors who offer guided sessions. On clear days, the snow-covered peaks of Nanda Devi and Kamet form a breathtaking backdrop, while the 4.15-kilometre-long cable car, one of Asia’s longest, offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station
5. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Photo: Paul Hamilton / Wikimedia Commons
Mussoorie, referred to as the “Queen of Hills,” experiences snowfall from late December to February, transforming its landscapes into a serene winter retreat that attracts visitors seeking a peaceful yet scenic holiday. The four-kilometre-long Mall Road offers beautiful views of the snow-covered mountains. At the same time, Lal Tibba, the highest point in Mussoorie, provides a clear view of Himalayan peaks such as Bandarpunch and Srikantha. Nearby Dhanaulti, located 24 kilometres away, offers a quieter setting for those looking to experience snowfall away from crowds. Occasionally, Kempty Falls partially freezes during January, creating a unique natural attraction for visitors.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station
6. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Photo: Uttarakhand Judicial and Legal Academy / Wikimedia Commons
Nainital, built around a 1.4-kilometre-long lake, receives light snowfall in winter, usually in January, while higher elevations nearby get heavier snow. The lake sometimes freezes at the edges, creating distinct winter views. A three-minute cable car ride leads to Snow View Point, though heavy snowfall can cause temporary closures. British-era buildings like St. John’s Church, built in 1844, stand out against the snow-covered surroundings. Nearby Kilbury, with its dense forests, often gets more snow than the town, making it a better spot for those seeking a deeper winter experience.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station
7. Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir
Photo: Shail Sharma / Unsplash
Pahalgam, in the Kashmir Valley, gets heavy snowfall from December to February, blanketing the town and surrounding valleys in thick snow, making it a popular winter destination. The Lidder River partially freezes, forming ice structures that add to the winter scenery. Nearby Betaab Valley and Aru Valley attract photographers capturing the snow-covered landscapes. Small ski slopes provide beginners with a safe space to practice. While traditional houseboats are usually found on Srinagar’s Dal Lake, some have been modified for colder conditions and are available for winter stays in Pahalgam, offering a unique lodging experience in the snow-covered region.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station
8. Sonamarg, Jammu & Kashmir
Photo: MohanaBeeregowda / Wikimedia Commons
Sonamarg, meaning “Meadow of Gold,” receives heavy snowfall in winter, covering its peaks and rivers in thick snow. Adventure seekers can trek to Thajiwas Glacier, just four kilometres from town, despite extreme weather. Zero Point, another popular spot, offers sledging and basic skiing between December and February. Due to its location near the border, military checkpoints control access, and winter permits are required. While most guesthouses close during harsh weather, the newly opened Z-Morh Tunnel ensures year-round connectivity, allowing some civilian accommodations to remain open and making Sonamarg more accessible for winter travellers.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station
9. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
Photo: SudiptoDutta / Wikimedia Commons
Munsiyari, located in the remote Johar Valley, transforms into a winter wonderland covered in snow, offering some of the clearest views of the five towering Panchchuli peaks, each rising above 6000 meters. The town is home to a small Tribal Heritage Museum that showcases artefacts from the Bhotia community, whose members continue to live in the region despite the extreme winter conditions. Wildlife enthusiasts often visit Munsiyari during snowfall, as Himalayan birds such as monal pheasants and snow partridges can be spotted against the white backdrop. Local homestays provide visitors with traditional meals, including buckwheat pancakes and herbal tea.
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station
10. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Photo: Abhishek Gaurav / Wikimedia Commons
Tawang, one of the hill stations in India with snowfall, endures harsh winters, with temperatures dropping below minus fifteen degrees Celsius in January. Despite the extreme cold, the 400-year-old Tawang Monastery, the largest in India outside Tibet, continues to host religious ceremonies. Standing at 4,170 meters, Sela Pass serves as the gateway to Tawang, with its heart-shaped lake often freezing over in winter. Meanwhile, the Monpa people celebrate Losar, their traditional New Year, with masked dances even as snow blankets the town. Additionally, visitors must obtain Inner Line Permits before travelling due to its high-altitude location.
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Tezpur Airport, Assam
Nearest Railway Station: Rangapara Railway Station
Winter covers these hill stations in India with snowfall, creating ideal spots for adventure and relaxation. From skiing in Gulmarg to exploring frozen valleys in Sonamarg and experiencing the quiet charm of Munsiyari, each destination has something special. Snowy peaks, icy lakes, and breathtaking views make them unforgettable. Book with TripXL for the best travel deals, hotels, and transport options to ensure a smooth sailing trip.
Cover Photo: Isa Macouzet / Unsplash
