The pristine winter in Himachal Pradesh has arrived with its first snowfall of the season, painting everything in the state with awe-inspiring beauty, thrilling experiences, and a placid sweetness that captivates every traveller. Himachal Pradesh is one such place that provides an incredible winter experience, from snow-clad scenery to the local customs and cultures.
For your next snowy getaway, this guide to the top locations, travel advice, and safety measures has got you covered.
Manali
Manali, a town located in the Beas River Valley, is renowned for its unspoiled beauty and has its fair share of snow-capped mountains, verdant valleys, and activities like paragliding, trekking, rafting, snowboarding, and skiing. Old Manali has ancient traditional wooden houses with white roofs, which look pretty in winter, and Mall Road is ideal for a leisurely walk and souvenir shopping.
Shimla
The capital city of Himachal Pradesh, which is also affectionately known as the “Queen of Hills”, boasts its colonial history with charm. Its snow-covered Ridge, Jakhu Temple, and bustling Mall Road are perfect for snowball fights, making snowmen, or just walking along, and if you have a love for adventure, Kufri, a nearby town, offers skiing and tobogganing. Additionally, Shimla’s toy train ride through snow-laden forests is one of the most sought-after experiences and is truly unforgettable.
Dalhousie
Dalhousie, named after the British governor-general Lord Dalhousie in the 19th century, radiating that old-world charm with its colonial-era architecture, is one of the few places in the country where snowfall turns it into an exotic destination. Meandering through the snow-covered churches, namely St. John’s Church and St. Francis’ Church, will give you a peek into the town’s history and is perfect for photography and long walks. For adventure enthusiasts, moderate treks of Dainkund Peak or Ganji Pahari can offer panoramic views of snow peaks.
Spiti Valley
When it snows, Spiti, sometimes known as the ‘Middle Land’ between Tibet and India, becomes a surreal place. Its untamed and snow-capped landscape creates a unique setting ideal for both explorers and those seeking seclusion. The white snow-covered background makes the Key Monastery on a hilltop look even more beautiful. Visitors can also visit the frozen rivers, ancient villages like Tabo and Kaza, and the tranquil Dhankar Lake. Trekking in winter and homestays with locals are opportunities to experience Spiti’s unique culture, making it a memorable destination for travellers.
Solang Valley
Solang Valley, which is only 13 km from Manali, has always served as a popular destination for those who enjoy winter sports. Apart from its skiing slopes, the valley has something for everyone, including activities like zorbing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. The natural, breathtaking scenery accentuated by the sweeping views of the surrounding towering heights is enough for both adventurers and nature lovers to make the region popular. The valley, along with its snow sports, is also known for a cable car ride that provides arresting views of the snow-covered sight.
Khajjiar
Khajjiar is also known as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’ and provides a pleasant winter getaway. Situated in the Chamba district, this charming highland resort boasts snowy meadows and woodlands dominated by deodar cedar trees. It provides adventure sports, including paragliding, trekking, and horseback riding, in addition to its natural beauty. Khajjiar is a great destination in the winter because of its serene atmosphere and distant mountain vistas.
Mashobra
Mashobra is a quiet place close to Shimla, which is great for peace lovers. Draped in a thick cover of snow in winter, this town offers a view to die for and chances for trekking as well as camping besides strolling along the cedar and pine forests. The nearby Reserve Forest Sanctuary is abundant with various flora and fauna, and the town is also famous for its apple orchards and quaint cottages that provide a perfect escape from the usual crowded spots.
Kinnaur
Kinnaur is a beautiful winter destination famous for its apple orchards and ancient monasteries, with the region having stunning sights of the Kinner Kailash range that blends both Tibetan and Himachali cultures. Villages of Kinnaur, such as Kalpa and Sangla, turn into a land of dreams during the winter season. Adventure seekers and cultural pilgrims can have trekking trails that pass through pristine valleys and can head to places of worship, including the around 1,100-year-old Nako Monastery and Chitkul, which is known as the last village on the Indo-Tibetan border, respectively.
Rohtang Pass
For snow-hungry tourists riding on their bikes & wanting picturesque views for their Instagram stories, Rohtang Pass—a gateway to Lahaul & Spiti—is a must-click. At an altitude of 13,050 feet, the pass provides extensive sights of the Pir Panjal range and the Chandra River. Rohtang remains covered in thick snow, making it a suitable location for snowboarding, sledging, and skiing during the winter. The ride up to the pass is just as breathtaking as the destination is, with winding roads and stunning views.
Dharamshala
Dharamshala, famous for being the home of the Dalai Lama and having Tibetan culture, is a getaway so mystical in winter with snow covering its topography. Located in the Kangra Valley, it shows off eye-catching views of the Dhauladhar range, and travellers can visit McLeodGanj, the spiritual centre of Tibetan Buddhism, or check out sites such as the Namgyal Monastery and Bhagsu Waterfall.
Best time to visit Himachal Pradesh
Maximum snowfall in Himachal Pradesh is typically from late December to mid-February, while the snowfall came early this year. January is the best month for those looking for guaranteed snow, and it is always advisable to check for weather updates before visiting.
Precautions and safety measures
Travellers must take a number of precautions and safety measures to ensure a safe journey, even if this is a great time to visit. To be warm, it’s critical to dress in layers of warm gear, such as strong, solid boots, gloves, water-resistant jackets, and thermal inners. Carrying power banks and extra batteries should also be a priority because electronics are known to run out of energy rapidly in cold weather. A first-aid kit may also be helpful. Additionally, being prudent while driving in areas with icy roads and cars with snow chains is considered much safer. Travellers must pay heed to local advisories, stay away from restricted and isolated places in the traction of heavy snow, and take along energy-rich snacks and water to augment their energy level in the winter cold.
By picking the right locations, planning ahead, and abiding by safety precautions, your chilly vacation can be made both safe and unforgettable.
So pack your bags and get ready to explore the snowy charm of Himachal Pradesh this winter!