New Delhi: Snowfall attracts travellers every winter in India, offering scenic valleys, frozen lakes, and peaceful mountain towns. From Kashmir’s snow-draped pine forests to Himachal Pradesh’s adventure slopes, the country transforms into a winter escape ideal for families, couples, and photography lovers. Many destinations begin receiving fresh snow by early December, while others turn completely white by mid-month, creating perfect conditions for holiday trips and winter activities. People have already witnessed snowfall at higher Himalayan regions, making it an excellent time to plan a trip.
Most snow destinations remain accessible through major airports and well-connected highways, although weather updates are essential for road travel. In many destinations, travellers can opt for skiing, quiet winter walks, or immersive mountain culture, and these destinations never fail to provide a complete snow experience. Explore more here.
Best snowfall destinations to visit in India this December
1. Kashmir
Shopian and Pulwama have emerged as notable snowfall destinations this season, recording temperatures around –5.5°C. Regions such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Srinagar offer classic winter views and accessible snow experiences.
Best time for snowfall: Mid-December to February
Things to do in Kashmir
- Gulmarg: Skiing, snowboarding, and the gondola ride offer striking views.
- Pahalgam: Gentle trails through snow-covered pine forests.
- Srinagar: Dal Lake occasionally freezes, creating a unique winter stay on houseboats.
Where to stay in Kashmir
- Gulmarg: The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Grand Mumtaz Resorts
- Srinagar: Four Points by Sheraton, Hotel Grand Boulevard, Heevan Retreat
- Pahalgam: Boutique stays with winter views
- Shopian: Hameed Hotel, Hotel Al Rakeeb, Hotel Check Wattoo, Mehfil Hotel, Danish Hotel
- Pulwama: Qadri Hotel, Celestial Hotel, Aksa Resort
How to reach Kashmir
- By Air: Srinagar Airport with flights from major Indian cities
- By Train: Jammu Tawi is the nearest major station
- By Road: Accessible via NH44, with occasional winter closures
- Weather in December: –2°C to 7°C, heavier snow after mid-month
2. Manali and Rohtang, Himachal Pradesh
Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, and areas near the Atal Tunnel have already received December snowfall.
Best time for snowfall: Early December to February
Things to do in Himachal
- Solang Valley: Skiing, paragliding, ATV snow rides
- Old Manali: Winter cafés and scenic lanes
- Rohtang Pass: Deep snow if the pass remains open
Where to stay in Himachal
Moustache Koksar Luxuria, Kalista Resort, Beyond Rohtang, Sterling Manali, The Highland Park, Solang Valley Resort
How to reach Himachal
- By Air: Bhuntar Airport
- By Train: Chandigarh or Pathankot
- By Road: Delhi-Chandigarh-Kullu-Manali highway
- Weather in December: –1°C to 10°C, snowfall around Solang begins early in the month
3. Leh Ladakh
December turns Ladakh into a high-altitude winter landscape with frozen lakes and snow-covered monasteries.
Best time for snowfall: December to February
Things to do
- Explore Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace
- Magnetic Hill winter drives
- Visit Pangong Lake, partially frozen in December
Where to stay
Gomang Boutique Hotel, Ladakh Sarai Resort, The Indus Valley, The Bodhi Tree Hotel, Ladakh View
How to reach
- By Air: Leh Airport is the only reliable entry.
- By Road: Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways close for winter
- Weather in December: –15°C or lower
4. Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli is one of India’s top ski destinations with panoramic views of Nanda Devi.
Best time for snowfall: Late December to early March
Things to do
Auli ropeway, artificial lake, and Joshimath sightseeing
Where to stay
Villas and boutique stays for private winter retreats.
How to reach
- By Air: Dehradun Airport
- By Train: Haridwar Railway Station
- By Road: Reach Joshimath, then drive or take the ropeway
- Weather in December: –4°C to 9°C, fresh snow by the third week
5. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
A high-altitude snow getaway with quiet landscapes and winter monasteries.
Best time for snowfall: Mid-December to early March
Things to do
Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Madhuri Lake
Where to stay
Homestays and villas offering mountain views
How to reach
- By Air: Tezpur or Guwahati
- By Train: Guwahati
- By Road: Guwahati-Bomdila-Dirang-Tawang route
- Weather in December: –5°C to 8°C, frequent snowfall
6. Sikkim
Lachen, Lachung, and Yumthang Valley receive heavy snow in winter.
Best time for snowfall: Late December to February
Things to do
Yumthang Valley, Gurudongmar Lake, Tsomgo Lake
Where to stay
Villas in Gangtok, guesthouses in Lachung
How to reach
- By Air: Pakyong or Bagdogra
- By Train: NJP or Siliguri
- By Road: Scenic routes from Siliguri and Kalimpong
- Weather in December: –3°C to 10°C, consistent snow in the north
7. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Ideal for serious winter adventurers.
Best time for snowfall: December to March
Things to do
Key Monastery, Langza, Kibber, Pin Valley National Park
How to reach
- By Air: Bhuntar Airport
- By Train: Joginder Nagar or Chandigarh
- By Road: The Shimla-Kaza route usually stays open longer
- Weather in December: –10°C to –20°C
These destinations provide some of the best snowfall experiences in India during the peak time, offering winter landscapes, outdoor activities, and peaceful travel options. Each region offers a memorable winter trip.