Embarking on a winter wonderland adventure filled with quirky snowmen is still within reach, especially if you head north. Shimla, a long-standing favorite among tourists, recently experienced an unexpected bout of snowfall, transforming areas like Narkanda, Kufri, and Fagu into picturesque white landscapes.
The surprise snowfall in Shimla brought joy to numerous vacationers who had never encountered such a phenomenon before. Despite the challenges of roadblocks and traffic snarls, enthusiastic visitors flocked to the snow-covered streets, eager to make the most of the snowy spectacle on the vibrant Mall Road.
However, Shimla is not the sole snow-kissed destination in India. Various regions in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and other states offer ideal winter getaways for snow enthusiasts. Here’s a roundup of a few such destinations:
Manali, Himachal Pradesh:
Approximately a seven-hour drive from Shimla, Manali boasts around 15.1 inches of snow. This Himalayan resort town transforms into a winter sports haven, featuring activities like skiing and snowmobiling when blanketed in a thick layer of snow. Rohtang Pass, in particular, offers awe-inspiring views of snow-covered peaks and is a must-visit during this season.
Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir:
A globally-renowned skiing destination in Kashmir, Gulmarg attracts visitors from around the world, especially between December and mid-February when the hill station is draped in snow. With its breathtaking landscapes, snow-laden pine trees, and gleaming slopes, winter in Gulmarg resembles scenes from a holiday postcard.
Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh:
Known for its majestic monasteries, rolling mountains, massive glaciers, and pristine rivers, Lahaul, and Spiti are currently experiencing snowfall. Kukumseri has recorded about 18.4 inches of snowfall, and Keylong has transformed into a mini-winter wonderland, according to ANI.
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh:
Tawang, a small town along the Indian-China border, offers a unique experience during snowfall. This winter, snowflakes arrived early in October, adding a festive touch for tourists and locals alike. With stunning Buddhist monasteries, Tawang is a must-visit for those looking to embrace snowfall.
Pir Panjal Mountain Range, Jammu and Kashmir:
After a prolonged dry spell, the southern part of Kashmir, including the Pir Panjal range, is witnessing heavy snowfall since the last week of January. Despite some roadblocks, the mesmerizing 360-degree views of snow-capped mountain peaks make the journey worthwhile.
Auli, Uttarakhand: Auli comes alive when it snows. With its pristine snow-covered slopes, panoramic views of the Himalayas, and an expansive artificial lake, this hill station transforms into a paradise for skiers during the winter months.