India is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural heritage, and winter adds its own magic by transforming several regions into breathtaking snowy paradises. From towering Himalayan ranges to charming hill stations, the country offers plenty of enchanting snowfall destinations. Whether you’re a snow enthusiast, an adventure lover, or someone who simply enjoys the quiet beauty of snowy vistas, India has something for everyone.

The best part? You don’t need to go far to experience this winter magic. With Etripto – one of India’s leading tour and travel agencies – you can easily explore some of the country’s most stunning snow-filled getaways. So pack your winter essentials and dive into this guide to the 10 Best Snowfall Places in India.

# Gulmarg & Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir

Gulmarg and Pahalgam are among the most visited snowfall destinations in India, renowned for their spectacular white landscapes and serene beauty. Gulmarg, also known as the ‘Meadow of Flowers,’ transforms into a pristine snowy wonderland during winter. Pahalgam offers peaceful walks along the Lidder River, surrounded by pine forests dusted with fresh snow. Together, they offer a heavenly winter experience for all travelers.

Must-Visit Places: Apharwat Peak, Drung Waterfall, Glass Igloo Café, Tangmarg, Strawberry Valley
Popular Food: Dum Aloo, Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Modur Pulaav, Raazma Gogji, Sheer Chai, Kehwah
Snow Season: October – March
Elevation: 2,740 m
Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport (1 hr 40 min to Gulmarg; 2+ hrs to Pahalgam)
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Railway Station (9 hrs 20 min to Gulmarg; 7 hrs 30 min to Pahalgam)

# Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Known as the "Queen of Hills," Mussoorie turns into a snowy retreat during winter. From Mall Road to Landour, the town becomes blanketed in snow with mesmerizing views of oak and pine forests. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy trekking, camping, ziplining, and stargazing. Don’t miss a cosy stop at the iconic Landour Bakehouse.

Must-Visit Places: Laal Tibba, Camel’s Back Road, Mall Road, Landour
Popular Food: Dumplings, Thukpa, Tibetan dishes, Indian cuisines
Snow Season: December – February
Elevation: 2,005 m
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (60 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station (36 km)

# Sonamarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Sonamarg is a tranquil destination covered with snow-laden meadows, perfect for winter sports like skiing, snow trekking, and snowboarding. Adventurers can trek to the frozen Sindh River, while the Thajiwas Glacier provides spectacular views and year-round snow.

Must-Visit Places: Thajiwas Glacier, Zoji La Pass, Sonamarg Market, Baltal Valley
Popular Food: Marcha-Wangan Korma, Modur Pulaav, Kaanti, Syoon Olav, Matschgand
Snow Season: November – April
Elevation: 9,000 ft
Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport (81 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station (347 km)

# Auli, Uttarakhand

Auli is India’s skiing capital and a favourite winter getaway for snow lovers and professional skiers. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, it receives abundant snowfall, making it ideal for skiing, trekking, and camping. The views of Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat are simply breathtaking.

Must-Visit Places: Joshimath, Gurso Bugyal, Chenab Lake, Rudraprayag
Popular Food: Garhwali cuisine, Kachamauli, Bal Mithai, Singhauri
Snow Season: December – March
Elevation: 2,740 m
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (5 hrs)
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station (5 hrs)

# Munsiyari, Uttarakhand

Meaning “place of snow,” Munsiyari stays true to its name. This peaceful town is ideal for snow lovers and nature enthusiasts. It also serves as the entryway to the historic Johar Valley and is one of the rare places where you might spot the elusive Snow Leopard. Often called “Little Kashmir,” it offers unmatched Himalayan views.

Must-Visit Places: Madkot, Thamri Kund, Johar Valley, Nanda Devi Temple, Maheshwari Kund, Birthi Falls, Pithoragarh
Popular Food: Kumaoni dishes like Bhatt ki dal, Raita, papad
Snow Season: December – February
Elevation: 2,200 m
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (7 hrs)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (4.5 hrs)

# Ladakh

Ladakh’s raw natural beauty becomes even more spectacular with winter snowfall. The region’s jagged mountains and frozen lakes such as Pangong and Tso Moriri offer surreal views. Although snowfall is common in winter, it can even occur during summer on rare occasions.

Must-Visit Places: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, BongBong La Snow Valley, Ladakhi Losar, Hemis National Park
Popular Food: Chhutagi, Tigmo, Momos, Sku, Thukpa, Pava, Khambir
Snow Season: December – February
Elevation: 3,000 m
Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (3.8 km from Leh)
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station (16 hrs, 672.9 km)

# Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh

Known as the ‘Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh,’ Lambasingi occasionally receives snowfall, making it a unique destination in South India. This quaint village in the Eastern Ghats transforms into a magical frosty escape during winter. Since locals primarily speak Telugu, having a translation app can be helpful.

Must-Visit Places: Hope Island, Annavaram Temple, Kothapally Waterfalls, Bojjannakonda
Popular Food: Onion samosas, bamboo chicken, chicken strips, biryani
Snow Season: November – January
Elevation: 1,000 m
Nearest Airport: Visakhapatnam Airport (2 hrs 10 min)
Nearest Railway Station: Chintapalli Railway Station (30 min)

# Shimla & Kufri, Himachal Pradesh

Shimla and its neighbouring town Kufri are classic winter favourites. Their colonial charm, scenic views, and snow-covered landscapes attract honeymooners and families alike. Kufri is popular for skiing, horse riding, and snowboarding. Shimla also serves as a gateway to other snowy retreats like Mashobra, Kasauli, and Chail.

Must-Visit Places: Himalayan Nature Park, Kufri Adventure Park, scenic lanes of Kufri
Popular Food: Momos, Thukpa, Noodles, Indian, Chinese, Italian, Continental, Himachal Thali
Snow Season: December – February
Elevation: 2,276 m
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport (2.5 hrs from Shimla, 3.5 hrs from Kufri)
Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station (1 hr from Kufri)

# Katao, Sikkim

Katao, often called the ‘Switzerland of Sikkim,’ is known for its thick snow cover and pristine beauty. Adventure lovers visit for skiing, trekking, and camping. Since it's a sensitive zone, an army permit is required. Situated close to Lachung and 144 km from Gangtok, Katao is one of India’s top snowfall destinations in December.

Must-Visit Places: Gangtok, Lachung
Popular Food: Momos, Thukpa, Daal Bhaat, bamboo shoot curry
Snow Season: December – February
Elevation: 15,000 ft
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (8 hrs)
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP)

# Almora, Uttarakhand

Almora undergoes a magical transformation in winter as snow blankets its colonial structures, temples, and charming stone-paved streets. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks through snow-covered pine forests and witness stunning views of snow-clad valleys. Sunsets and sunrises at Bright End Corner are especially captivating.

Must-Visit Places: Nanda Devi Temple, Chitai Golu Devta Temple, Dwarahat Village, Katarmal Sun Temple
Popular Food: Bal Mithai, Bhang ki Chutney, Dubuk, Singodi, Jhangore ki Kheer
Snow Season: August – November
(Elevation seems seasonally inconsistent but kept as provided)
Elevation: 1,811 m
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (3 hrs 20 min)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (1 hr 20 min)