Ever wondered what winter truly looks like when the mountains turn into beautiful snow-covered views?
For many travellers, winter is the season of calm mornings, cold breezes, soft snowflakes, and unforgettable scenery. India is home to some of the top snowfall destinations, where every corner feels like a perfect winter postcard. From easy-to-reach hill towns to high-altitude adventure spots, this guide covers the best places to see snow in India and the most stunning winter travel destinations in India for a magical holiday experience.
Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic escape, or an adventure-filled vacation, these destinations offer the perfect mix of beauty, snow, and winter fun.
1. Gulmarg – Jammu & Kashmir
Gulmarg is one of the top snowfall destinations and is often the first choice for travellers searching for winter magic. The valley stays covered in thick snow for most of the season, making it ideal for skiing, cable car rides, and scenic winter walks.
Best Snowfall Months: December – February
This is the best time to visit if you want fresh, thick snow and clear winter views.
Where to find snow:
- Gulmarg Ski Slopes: Popular for skiing and snow activities.
- Gulmarg Gondola: One of the highest cable car rides in the world, offering snowy mountain views.
With its powdery landscape, Gulmarg continues to be one of the best snowfall destinations in India.
2. Auli – Uttarakhand
Auli, located in the beautiful state of Uttarakhand, is known for its smooth white slopes and peaceful surroundings. It’s one of the best skiing destinations in the country and offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. The crisp winter air, perfect snow quality, and calm landscape come together to create an ideal winter setting.
Best Snowfall Months: Mid-December – March, perfect for travellers looking for soft snow, scenic views, and excellent skiing conditions.
Where to find snow:
• Auli Ski Resort: Famous for its smooth slopes, ski training, and breathtaking Himalayan backdrops.
• Gurso Bugyal: A short trek that rewards you with wide mountain views and beautiful snow-covered meadows.
Auli remains one of the most scenic and peaceful winter travel destinations in Uttarakhand, making it a favourite for winter lovers.
3. Manali – Himachal Pradesh
Manali becomes beautifully white during winter and is a classic favourite for holidaymakers. Snow-covered forests, icy rivers, and calm surroundings create the perfect winter experience for families, couples, and adventure seekers.
Best Snowfall Months: Late December – Early March
The best time for snow activities, adventure sports, and enjoying the full winter scenery.
Where to find snow:
- Solang Valley: Famous for skiing, snowboarding, and snow biking.
- Atal Tunnel & Beyond: Often covered in snow, offering beautiful views.
With its winter charm, Manali is truly one of the best places to see snow in India.
4. Shimla – Himachal Pradesh
Shimla blends colonial charm with beautiful winter scenes. Snow on the rooftops, trees, and roads makes the town feel peaceful and perfect for a calm winter getaway.
Best Snowfall Months: Late December – February
Ideal for snow walks, scenic views, and a relaxing winter trip.
Where to find snow:
- Kufri: Popular for winter sports and frequent snowfall.
- Mall Road & Ridge: Often covered in fresh snow, great for easy strolls.
Shimla remains one of the most visited winter travel destinations in India because of its easy access and pleasant atmosphere.
5. Ladakh
Ladakh offers a unique and dramatic winter experience. Its frozen lakes, quiet valleys, and snow-covered mountains make it one of the most unforgettable snowfall destinations, especially for experienced travellers.
Best Snowfall Months: October – March
Best time for travellers seeking extreme winter beauty and peaceful snowy landscapes.
Where to find snow:
- Leh: Covered in thick snow with stunning mountain views.
- Frozen Lakes: Pangong & Tso Moriri often turn into glass-like frozen surfaces.
Ladakh is challenging in winter but extremely rewarding for those who want to explore the most dramatic top snowfall destinations in India.
Final Thoughts on India’s Top Snowfall Destinations
India’s winter destinations are truly magical, whether it’s the soft snow of Gulmarg, the perfect slopes of Auli, the adventure-filled charm of Manali, the calm beauty of Shimla, or the frozen wonder of Ladakh. Each place offers a unique winter experience that stays with you long after the trip ends.
And if you’re looking to explore even more beautiful hill stations this season, Towno’s Uttarakhand Nainital Corbett Mussoorie tour 6N/7D is a great choice. With Towno, you get real travel benefits like private AC transfers, handpicked hotels, a customizable itinerary, expert local support, and memorable experiences, including the Corbett Jeep Safari, peaceful lake visits, and scenic viewpoints in Mussoorie.
Everything is planned smoothly for you, so your winter getaway stays stress-free and full of beautiful moments. If you want a cozy, scenic, and well-organized winter holiday, this is the perfect time to book your Towno trip and make this season truly unforgettable.