As winter approaches, every one of us dreams of escaping to a snowy wonderland. India has some amazing destinations that experience heavy snowfall like Manali, Mussoorie, and Auli. However, these places have become so crowded over the years, and it’s almost impossible to enjoy here. The snow here is so dirty at times due to the frequent flow of travelers, that you may regret coming to such places.
So, to help you experience the best snowfall of your life without getting stuck in the crowd, we have curated a list of 5 Off-Beat places to see in winter in India. Snowfall in Himachal Pradesh is more than just a few popular places, this time, let’s explore valleys like Sethan and Tirthan. Don’t forget to visit the amazing and quaint Jispa, where your life will seem so much calmer.
Top 5 Snowfall Places in India
Jispa – 595 km from Delhi, 6 to -10 degrees
Naggar – 485 km from Delhi, 14 to -2 degrees
Tirthan Valley – 500 km from Delhi, 5 to 15 degrees
Sethan – 500 km from Delhi, -5 – 2 degrees
Sangla – 580 km from Delhi, 10 to -8 degrees
Jispa
Jispa is the first pit-stop destination that falls on the route to the majestic Leh. It’s situated on the Manali-Leh Highway and is about 100 km more from Manali. For those traveling from Delhi, this quaint village is located at about 600 kms, a 12-hour drive involving a picturesque landscape. During winters, the temperature here drops down to zero far too quickly, and the town is quite serene and calm. Making it the perfect place to experience snowfall in Himachal Pradesh. Here, there are a few hostels, huts, and campgrounds where you can enjoy the hospitality of the totally sweet locals. Spend your evenings sipping Himalayan tea and regional snacks like Thukpa, Dumplings, and Sidu (steamed bread served with delicious sauce) while immersing in the Buddhist culture of the town.
Distance
580 km from Delhi, 12-14 hours drive
How to Reach
Drive through the Rohtang Tunnel
Things to Do
- Camp near the frozen Bhaga River for stunning views and an unparalleled stargazing experience.
- Explore local trails on foot or try winter trekking to nearby spots like Keylong.
- Experience the culture by interacting with villagers and sampling traditional Himachali cuisine.
Temperature
Winter temperatures range from 6°C to -10°C, with frequent snowfall
Best Time to Visit
November to February
Where to Stay
Book riverside camps using MakeMyTrip Hotel Gift Cards from GyFTR to enjoy 13% OFF.
Naggar
Naggar is located in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It offers an amazing blend of cultural heritage and nature’s beauty. This place is known for its medieval architecture and serene views of the Beas Valley. Naggar looks magnificent when covered in a blanket of snow. It’s an ideal retreat for those seeking solace, enjoying historic towns, and experiencing the best snowfall in India. Many people who travel here stay for months and work from the mountains only. This town has great internet connectivity and will offer you the perfect place to unwind and work.
Distance
Around 485 km from Delhi
Things to Do:
Naggar Castle, Sajila waterfall, Jana waterfall, trekking, Dagpu Shedrupling Monastry
Temperature
Winter temperatures range from 14°C to -2°C (Nov to Jan)
Best Time to Visit
November to January
Where to Stay
Book your stay using MakeMyTrip Hotel Gift Cards from GyFTR and save 13%.
Tirthan Valley
Tucked away in the Kullu district, Tirthan Valley turns into a snowy wonderland during winters. The snowfall in this valley begins around December, and the whole valley turns pristine white. You can visit Jalori Pass, which is a short drive from the valley. Travelers can trek on the snowy trails, or enjoy born-fire under the stars. This whole valley offers a secluded space to experience snow, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Experience one of the best snowfalls in India here at Tirthan Valley, don’t miss out on this gem.
Distance
Roughly 500 km from Delhi
Things to Do
- Trekk through snowy landscapes
- Relax by the Tirthan river
- Explore Great Himalayan National Park – a UNESCO world heritage site
Temperature
Winter temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C
Best Time to Visit
November to March
Where to Stay
Book your stay using MakeMyTrip Gift Cards from GyFTR and enjoy 13% OFF.
Sethan
Sethan is located about 500 km from Delhi and about 14 km from Manali (Himachal Pradesh). This place offers the best snowfall in Himachal Pradesh. If you are looking to indulge in snowfall in India activities, Sethan is the destination for you. Experience skiing and snowboarding here during the winters. With only 20 houses in the whole village, Sethan is the most calm and quaint off-beat destination to experience snowfall in India.
Distance
Around 500 km from Delhi
Things to Do
- You can indulge in activities like skiing and snowboarding.
- Embark on the Hampta Pass snow trek.
- Enjoy bonfires amidst snowy pristine peaks.
Temperature
Winters see temperatures between -5°C and 2°C
Best Time to Visit
December to March
Where to Stay
There are plenty of decent stays in Sethan, book using MakeMyTrip Gift Cards from GyFTR to save an additional 13% OFF.
Sangla
Sangla Valley is situated in Himachal Pradesh only within the Kinnaur district. It’s popular for offering a serene and majestic view of the Himalayas. The valley is covered in snow from November to February. You can enjoy snow trekking, visit quaint villages like Rakcham and Chitkul, and camp alongside the river Baspa here in Sethan. The valley has traditional wooden homes, which when covered in snow resemble a beautiful painting. Despite all the snow, this place is accessible through the Kalka and Shima routes.
Distance
Approximately 580 km from Delhi
Things to Do
- Explore apple orchards covered in snow.
- You can visit Kumru Fort for a historic experience.
- Camp alongside the Baspa River
Temperature
Winter temperatures range from 10°C to -8°C
Best Time to Visit
November to March
Where to Stay
Book your stay in Sethan using MakeMyTrip Gift Cards from GyFTR and save 13%.
FAQs
What are the best places to experience snowfall in India?
India offers several beautiful destinations for snowfall such as Sethan, Tirthan, Auli, and Manali.
When is the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh for snowfall in India?
The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh for snowfall is between late November and February.
Are these pff-beat places for snowfall in Himachal Pradesh any good?
Yes, off-beat places like Jispa, Sethan, Naggar, and Sangla offer a serene and less crowded experience to enjoy snowfall in Himachal Pradesh.
How can I book my budget-freindly stay in snowfall destinations?
You can book budget-friendly stays using MakeMyTrip Gift Cards from GyFTR.
What activities can I enjoy in snowfall places in India?
Activities like snow trekking, skiing, snowboarding, camping, glamping, and more can be done at snowfall places in India.
How is the road condition for traveling to snowfall places in Himachal Pradesh?
Roads to popular snowfall destinations in Himachal Pradesh are generally well-maintained. However, it’s advisable to check everything before hitting the road.
Which snowfall in India destinations are closest to Delhi?
Naggar (350 km), Tirthan Valley (520 km), and Sethan (540 km) are some of the closest snowfall destinations to Delhi, with a 12-14 hours drive.
What should I pack for a trip to snowfall places in India?
Pack warm clothing, and carry snow boots and thermal wear to such places. Also, carry a first-aid kit and some snacks for emergencies.
Can snowfall places in Himachal Pradesh be visited by families?
Yes, most snowfall destinations like Naggar, Tirthan Vallet, and Sangla are family-friendly and offer safe accommodations.
Why choose off-beat snowfall destinations over popular ones?
Off-beat destinations like Jispa and Sethan offer a quieter and more serene experience.
Conclusion
Wrap up your thoughts around how traveling for snowfall is an extremely amazing experience, and how these off-beat places should be on your must-visit list during winters. This is the best time to experience snowfall and serene environments. Plan your trip safely and after checking out all the routes during winter to avoid any inconvenience. Don’t forget to use MakeMyTrip Gift Cards from GyFTR to enjoy additional discounts.