December is here, and it's that time of the year when parts of India turn into a white winter wonderland. It's time for Christmas bells to ring, to make snowmen out of fresh snow, go skiing at a resort, or just huddle in front of a warm crackling fire, gazing at the world turn white outside.
Whether you've seen snowfall a hundred times, or are witnessing it for the first time, it's always a magical feeling. And if any of these snow activities are on your list for 2022-23 travel, then here's a prediction of places, where you can witness snowfall this winter.
1. Sonamarg, Kashmir
Sonamarg in Kashmir is one of the best places to witness snowfall as it looks like a veritable winter fairyland, carpeted in a thick soft sheet of dazzling white. Thajiwas Glacier blanketed in snow is one of the most spectacular sights you can witness here in winters.
Snowfall prediction: It has already started snowing in Sonamarg. Further snowfall is expected in the last week of December 2022. In 2023, more snowfall is predicted from 2-4 Jan, 8-10 Jan, 15-17 Jan, 20-23 Jan, and 31 Jan-2 Feb.
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Himachal. It offers a plethora of activities and spell binding views of the Himalayas, especially in winters, after a fresh snow fall. You can indulge in skiing, snowboarding, sledding and various other snow centered activities. Rohtang Pass is a majestic sight in winters, though it remains closed as it gets covered in snow. Solang Valley is the best place to catch sight of snow near Manali.
Snowfall prediction: Manali has already received its first snowfall of the season. Snowfall is predicted on 19 Dec, 26 Dec, 28-29 Dec. In 2023, further snowfall is predicted from 2-4 Jan, 9-10 Jan, 13 Jan, 20-22 Jan, 25-26 Jan, 31 Jan.
3. Gulmarg, Kashmir
Gulmarg is one of the best places in India where you can enjoy a snow laden white winter. It is famous for its ski slopes and offers snowboarding, skiing and other winter sports. But the best attraction is perhaps the Gondola ride which will provide you with panoramic views of some of the highest Himalayan peaks including Kanchenjunga.
Snowfall prediction: It is snowing in Gulmarg. Further snowfall is expected on 29 Dec 2022. In 2023, further snow is predicted from 2-4 Jan, 9-10 Jan, 15-16 Jan, 20-22 Jan, 25 Jan and 31 Jan-1 Feb.
4. Ladakh
Ladakh is a high altitude, cold desert like landscape. It's stark beauty is incomparable. However, Ladakh receives a lot of snow, and has a harsh winter. However, you can definitely witness snowfall here and go for the famous Chadar Trek, which is one of the most challenging and rewarding winter treks.
Snowfall prediction: It is snowing in parts of Ladakh. Further snowfall is expected on 28-29 Dec 2022. In 2023, further snow is predicted from 2-4 Jan, 8-10 Jan, 12-17 Jan, 20-29 Jan.
5. Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli is set at an altitude of 10000 ft in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is famous for skiing, snowboarding and other winter activities. The view of Nanda Devi and other Himalayan peaks from here is simply mesmerizing.
Snowfall prediction: In 2023, snowfall is predicted on 4 Jan and 21 Jan.
6. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Spiti Valley in Himachal witnesses a harsh and white winter, with snow cutting off access to many parts of this region. However, extreme adrenaline junkies may opt for a White Spiti trip this winter. This beautiful valley blanketed in white makes for an out of the world sight.
Snowfall prediction: Spiti Valley has already received its first snowfall of the season. Further snowfall is predicted on 31 Dec 2022. In 2023, snowfall is predicted on 1 Jan, 5-6 Jan, 2 Feb, 4 Feb.
7. Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
Kedarnath is one of the most prominent and revered pilgrim destinations of India. Part of the 'Char Dham' yatra, it attracts devotees from all over the world. In winters, it is blanketed in snow as it lies in the upper reaches of the Himalayas, and closed for pilgrims
Snowfall prediction: Kedarnath has already received its first snowfall of the season in end Oct. Further snowfall is predicted in 2023 on 5-6 Jan.
8. Lachen, Sikkim
North Sikkim, particularly places like Lachen witness snowfall and turn into a winter wonderland with sub zero temperature. Lachen in winter, is the perfect place for adventure seekers.
Snowfall prediction: Snow/Rain is predicted on 21-22 Dec 2022. In 2023, snowfall is expected on 22 Feb
9. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Khajjiar is often referred to as the Mini Switzerland of India, with its postcard perfect views. It looks even more enchanting in winters, when you can view its frozen lake, and visit the main temple covered in snow.
Snowfall prediction: In 2023, snowfall/rain is predicted on 5-6 Jan.
10. Hemkund Sahib, Uttarakhand
Hemkund Sahib is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for Sikhs. It is situated at an altitude of 4329 m on the banks of the glacial Hemund lake surrounded by 7 mountain peaks. It literally translates to 'Lake of Snow'. Many people visit here along with the Valley of Flowers Trek. It turns completely white in winters, and remains closed to pilgrims.
Snowfall prediction: In 2022, snowfall is predicted on 25 Dec. In 2023, snowfall is predicted from 1-8 Jan, 13-14 Jan, 16-18 Jan, 20-22 Jan, 26-29 Jan.
Note: all weather predictions have been gathered as on 10th Dec 2022 and are subject to change. Please follow the local weather conditions of the place you are planning to visit
You may also like to read: Snowfall in India
So, start planning your next snow filled adventure. If you know of more places in India, where you can enjoy a dreamy white winter, let me know in the comments or write about it on Tripoto. Join Tripoto's Facebook page and become a part of the largest online travel community