❄️ India’s Ultimate Snow & Ski Travel Guide (December 2025 – March 2026)
Winter in India is magical — from powder-white Himalayan valleys to world-class ski slopes. Whether you’re a snow lover, an adventure seeker, or a family planning a festive getaway, here’s where you should be heading for snow and skiing this season.
🏔️ 1. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir — India’s Snow & Ski Capital
Why Visit
Gulmarg transforms into a true winter wonderland from December to March, with heavy snowfall and breathtaking views of the Pir Panjal range. It is India’s top snow destination, offering skiing, snowboarding, snowmobile rides, and the iconic Gulmarg Gondola, one of Asia’s highest cable cars.
Accessibility
- Nearest Airport: Srinagar (≈ 56 km)
- Nearest Railhead: Jammu Tawi (≈ 300 km)
- Road: Regular taxis & shared cabs from Srinagar
4-Night Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar → Drive to Gulmarg → Evening snow walk
- Day 2: Gondola ride to Apharwat Peak + skiing lessons
- Day 3: Snowboarding / snowmobile rides
- Day 4: Photography, village walk & Kashmiri cuisine
- Day 5: Return to Srinagar
Tips: Carry snow boots and layered clothing; heavy snowfall may occasionally delay Gondola operations.
🎿 2. Auli, Uttarakhand — India’s Skiing Hub
Why Visit
Auli is India’s premier skiing destination with consistent snowfall between December and March. Well-groomed slopes and stunning Himalayan views (including Nanda Devi) make it ideal for beginners and advanced skiers alike.
Accessibility
- Nearest Airport: Dehradun / Jolly Grant (≈ 270 km)
- Nearest Railhead: Rishikesh (≈ 256 km)
- Road: Via Joshimath; ropeway connects Joshimath ↔ Auli
4-Night Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival at Joshimath & acclimatization
- Day 2: Ropeway to Auli + beginner skiing
- Day 3: Intermediate skiing & snow trek to Gurso Bugyal
- Day 4: Sunset views & local market exploration
- Day 5: Departure
Tips: Pre-book ski instructors and equipment during peak season.
🏞️ 3. Manali & Solang Valley, Himachal Pradesh — Snow + Adventure
Why Visit
Manali turns into a snow paradise from December to February. Nearby Solang Valley offers skiing, snow zorbing, ATV rides, and winter adventure activities with vibrant cafés and festive vibes.
Accessibility
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar (≈ 50 km)
- Nearest Railhead: Joginder Nagar (≈ 150 km)
- Road: Direct buses from Delhi & Chandigarh
4-Night Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1: Manali arrival & Old Manali exploration
- Day 2: Solang Valley snow activities
- Day 3: Rohtang Pass visit (weather permitting)
- Day 4: Snow trek or hot springs relaxation
- Day 5: Departure
Note: Rohtang Pass may close during heavy snowfall.
🏙️ 4. Shimla & Kufri, Himachal Pradesh — Classic Snow Escape
Why Visit
Shimla’s colonial charm becomes even more magical under snowfall between December and February. Kufri and Narkanda nearby offer gentle ski slopes, ice skating, and horse rides — perfect for families and couples.
Accessibility
- Nearest Airport: Shimla (Jubbarhatti)
- Toy Train: Kalka–Shimla UNESCO route
- Road: Buses from Delhi & Chandigarh
3-Night Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1: Shimla arrival & Mall Road walk
- Day 2: Kufri snow activities
- Day 3: Narkanda skiing & Hatu Peak views
- Day 4: Departure
Tip: The toy train journey is especially beautiful during snowfall.
🌄 5. Sonamarg & Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir — Serene Snow Valleys
Why Visit
Sonamarg and Pahalgam are quieter alternatives to Gulmarg, offering pristine snow-covered valleys, glacier visits, snow walks, and peaceful winter landscapes.
Accessibility
- Nearest Airport: Srinagar
- Road: Scenic Himalayan highways (weather dependent)
3-Night Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive to Sonamarg & snow play
- Day 2: Thajiwas Glacier visit or snow trek
- Day 3: Pahalgam & Lidder River views
- Day 4: Return
Tip: 4WD vehicles are recommended during peak winter.
❄️ Insider Planning Tips for Snow Travel in India
Best Time for Snow
- Heavy Snow & Skiing: December – February
- Snow Cover & Cold Weather: March
Snow Activities Across India
- Skiing & Snowboarding – Gulmarg, Auli, Solang, Kufri
- Snow trekking – Sonamarg winter trails
- Ropeways – Auli & Gulmarg
- Snow play & photography – Shimla, Manali, Kufri
🏁 Final Thoughts
India’s winter destinations offer everything — thrilling ski slopes, serene snow valleys, and classic hill-station charm. From Gulmarg and Auli to Shimla and Manali, these destinations promise unforgettable snow holidays through March 2026.
