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When people think of snowfall in India, places like Manali or Gulmarg usually come to mind. But there are many hidden spots with amazing views of the snow. If you love snow but want to avoid the crowds, here are some offbeat places in India where you can enjoy winter at its best.
Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh sits at about 10,000 feet and is one of India’s most beautiful, yet less-visited, snowy spots. The town is renowned for the ancient Tawang Monastery, the largest in India, which transforms into a peaceful white wonderland from November to March. The drive to Tawang through the snowy Sela Pass is just as stunning as the town itself. Frozen lakes, snow-covered prayer flags, and the sound of Buddhist chants in the cold air make Tawang a special and peaceful winter getaway.
Kalpa is a small village in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh that feels like it’s from another era. With views of the impressive Kinner Kailash Range, Kalpa becomes a snowy wonderland starting in December. Snow covers the apple orchards, pine forests, and wooden houses, creating postcard-like scenes. Kalpa stands out for its peaceful atmosphere, far from the busy crowds of popular hill stations. You can visit nearby Roghi Village or relax in a homestay and watch snowflakes fall against the Himalayan peaks.
Lachung is a quiet mountain village in northern Sikkim, serving as the starting point for visiting the beautiful Yumthang Valley, also known as the “Valley of Flowers of the East.” In winter, the valley changes completely as snow covers the meadows, streams, and rhododendron groves. From December to February, the entire area resembles a scene from a snow globe. The trip to Yumthang, with its frozen waterfalls and winding roads, is just as magical as the valley itself. Nearby Zero Point, at over 15,000 feet, still has snow even in early summer.
Dhanaulti is just an hour from bustling Mussoorie, yet it remains one of Uttarakhand’s hidden winter gems. At approximately 7,000 feet, it receives substantial snowfall from December to February. The town is surrounded by thick deodar and rhododendron forests, making it a peaceful haven for those seeking quiet. You can visit Eco Park, take short treks, or have snowball fights on empty slopes. Dhanaulti’s charm lies in its simple, calm atmosphere, unlike the crowded tourist spots.
Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is perfect for adventurous travellers looking for a unique winter experience. Called the “Middle Land” between India and Tibet, Spiti can only be reached in winter via specific routes, making the journey challenging but worthwhile. Villages like Kaza, Langza, and Kibber are covered in snow, and temperatures can drop to -20 °C or lower. The snowy monasteries, frozen rivers, and peaceful village life make Spiti an unforgettable destination. Winter here is not easy, but for those who visit, it’s a true adventure.
Mechuka, near the India-China border, is one of Arunachal Pradesh’s hidden gems. This small town in the Shi-Yomi district receives a significant amount of snow in winter, transforming it into a beautiful white paradise. Traditional wooden houses, snowy fields, and the Siyom River running through the valley make for postcard-worthy scenes. The 400-year-old Samten Yongcha Monastery offers a quiet aura amid untouched natural surroundings.
