There's something magical about snow—the silence of a white landscape, the crunch underfoot, the cozy warmth of a bonfire after playing in powder. The Himalayas offer genuine snow experiences from December through March. Book your winter adventure with reliable transportation.
When Does It Snow in India?
Early Winter (December-January): Higher altitudes (above 3,000m) like Gulmarg, Auli, Solang, Chopta receive snow
Peak Winter (January-February): Snow reaches lower hill stations like Shimla, Manali, Dalhousie
Late Winter (February-March): Best consolidated snow; spring skiing in high areas
Important: Snowfall is never guaranteed. It depends on Western Disturbances. Check forecasts before planning your Shimla-Manali trip.
Top Snow Destinations
1. Gulmarg, Kashmir
Altitude: 2,730m base, 4,390m top | Snow Period: December-March
Home to Asia's highest and longest cable car (Gulmarg Gondola) and world-class skiing. The reliable heavy snowfall produces powder snow quality that rivals international destinations.
Activities:
- Skiing (beginner to advanced)
- Snowboarding
- Gondola ride (₹1,600 Phase 1, ₹1,800 Phase 2)
- Sledging and snowshoeing
From Delhi: Fly to Srinagar, drive 56 km
2. Auli, Uttarakhand
Altitude: 2,500-3,050m | Snow Period: January-March | From Delhi: 500 km (12-14 hours)
India's premier ski resort with affordable skiing, stunning Nanda Devi views, and cable car from Joshimath. Less crowded than Gulmarg and more accessible by road. Perfect for combining with Char Dham Yatra.
3. Solang Valley, Manali
Altitude: 2,560m | Snow Period: December-February | From Delhi: 530 km (12-13 hours)
Easy access from Manali, variety of activities, and the Atal Tunnel makes the journey shorter. Budget-friendly options for families.
Activities: Skiing, paragliding (even in winter!), snow scooter rides, zorbing, cable car
4. Chopta, Uttarakhand
Altitude: 2,680m | Snow Period: December-February | From Delhi: 410 km (10-11 hours)
Less commercial destination with stunning snow trekking to Tungnath Temple (world's highest Shiva temple) and Chandrashila peak. Budget camping available.
5. Shimla & Kufri
Altitude: 2,205m (Shimla), 2,510m (Kufri) | From Delhi: 350 km (8-9 hours)
Reality Check: Shimla town rarely gets heavy snow; Kufri is more likely. Not guaranteed—plan as "bonus" rather than primary goal. Book our Shimla tour package for the best experience.
Winter Road Trip Planning
Vehicle Considerations
Snow Chains: Required for high-altitude routes. Our SUVs carry chains for Rohtang, Gulmarg, and Auli routes. Essential above 3,000m in winter.
Vehicle Choice: SUV strongly recommended (ground clearance, better traction). 4x4 ideal for areas with heavy snow. Our tempo travellers are equipped with chains for group trips.
Route Accessibility
| Destination | Winter Status | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Gulmarg | Open, may need chains | SUV preferred |
| Auli | Open, Joshimath route | SUV preferred |
| Solang | Open (Atal Tunnel) | Any vehicle |
| Chopta | May close in heavy snow | Check before travel |
| Rohtang | Closed Nov-May | Atal Tunnel alternative |
| Ladakh | Closed Nov-May | Flights only |
What to Pack for Snow Trip
Clothing Layers
Base Layer: Thermal tops and bottoms, moisture-wicking fabric
Mid Layer: Fleece jacket, wool sweater
Outer Layer: Waterproof down jacket, snow pants/waterproof trousers
Accessories
- Woolen cap/beanie (covers ears)
- Waterproof gloves (2 pairs)
- Muffler/neck gaiter
- Snow boots OR sturdy shoes with waterproof cover
- Sunscreen and sunglasses (snow reflects UV intensely)
- Power bank (cold drains batteries faster)
Winter Trip Packages
Auli Skiing Adventure (4 Days by Road)
Route: Delhi → Joshimath → Auli → Delhi | Distance: 1,000 km round trip
| Vehicle | Transport Only | With Hotel |
|---|---|---|
| SUV | ₹28,000 | ₹42,000/person (min 4) |
| Tempo 12-seater | ₹45,000 | ₹35,000/person (min 8) |
Manali-Solang Winter Trip (3 Days)
Route: Delhi → Manali → Solang → Delhi | Distance: 1,060 km round trip
| Vehicle | Rate |
|---|---|
| Sedan | ₹18,000 |
| SUV | ₹24,000 |
| Tempo 12-seater | ₹35,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is snowfall guaranteed?
Never guaranteed in India. Higher altitudes (Gulmarg, Auli) are more reliable. Lower hill stations (Shimla, Mussoorie) may or may not have snow.
Best time to see snow?
January-February for best chances. Fresh snowfall often follows weather reports of "Western Disturbance."
Can I drive my car in snow?
Not recommended unless you have experience and appropriate equipment. Our drivers are winter-trained with proper snow chains.
Book Your Winter Adventure
Experience the magic of Himalayan winters with safe, reliable, winter-prepared transportation.
Call: 7668570551 | WhatsApp: 7668570551
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