5 Winter Wonderlands in North India

The winter season is near, and the best we can do is plan our trip for a memorable end of the year. And what Indian destination came to your mind when we mentioned winter gateways? You are right, the tranquil surroundings of North India would be a great choice. To ease your panning, our team has curated a list of the top 5 winter wonderlands in North India. Have you ever dreamed of playing snowball fights and spending cosy nights amidst chill surroundings? Then this guide is for you. Covered with a white blanket, these scenic places boast towering mountains, frozen lakes, and lively markets. Make your adventure in Manali and other winter wonderlands truly unforgettable with the help of renowned Manali tour operators in Delhi.

1. Auli, Uttrakhand

With breathtaking views of the Himalayas from any point, this picturesque location sets the perfect state for your fun-filled snow adventures. Located in the Himalayan mountains, this scenic town offers you an ideal opportunity to learn skiing amidst landscapes surrounded by oak and coniferous trees. With temperatures ranging between -3 and -6 degrees Celsius, you get a chance to watch crystal lakes fall.

How to Reach Auli?

Located about 270 km from Auli, Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun serves as the nearest airport. This airport connects to Delhi with various flights. In case you choose to travel by train, you can consider Rishikesh railway station (250 kilometres) and Dehradun railway station (290 kilometres), the two nearest railway stations. Also, one can reach this scenic hill station by road within 10 hours from Delhi.

Things to Do in Auli

Join in adventurous activities like Skiing and trekking while enjoying the stunning views of mountains blanketed with snow. Choose Gorsen Trek to get a clear view of Naina Devi. At the end of this trail in Gorson Bugyal, you will find a perfect spot for camping. With easy to challenging trails such as the Kuari Pass trek and Trishul Peak, you can experience a serene walk as well as a heart-pounding adventure amidst pristine snow landscapes.

By visiting Naina Devi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, one can avail the chance to gaze at the stunning views of the Valley of Flowers and Badrinath Temple. You can also try a ropeway ride, stroll the vibrant market, and grab some traditional food to eat.

2. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

Gulmarg is the heart of winter sports in the country. You must have spotted this location in popular Bollywood movies like Haider, Bobby, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Highway, and Phantom. Nestled in the Baramulla district in the Pir Panjal Range, the average temperature during winter ranges between 0 and -7 degrees Celsius. With such a temperature range, travellers are welcome to witness snowfall throughout the season.

How to Reach Gulmarg?

Want to reach by air? Go to Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar, the nearest airport which is located just 56 km away. Upon arrival, you can easily find cabs for the base, Tangmarg. You can elevate your travel experience with a gondola up to Aparwath and Kungdoor.

Things to Do in Gulmarg

Here, try your hand at skiing, tobogganing, snowboarding and heli-skiing on the slopes of Mount Apharwat. Use a Gondola lift to reach this spot while sightseeing the breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains.

Apart from sports adventure, there are many sightseeing opportunities. You can visit the serene Alpather Lake, located about 13kms from the town. Here, you can explore Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, a safe shelter for many wildlife animals like Himalayan Musk Deer and Red Fox. Do not miss St. Mary’s Church. Its stained glass artwork enhances the tranquil experience.

3. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Home to the ever-famous Mall Road and Winter Carnival, Manali is a popular hill station nestled near Kullu Valley. This renowned resort town serves as the gateway to the Spiti and Lahaul districts along with Leh. There is a heavy chance of snowfall, thanks to the average temperature ranging from 3 to -4 degrees.

How to Reach Manali?

Bhuntar Airport, also known as Kullu-Manali Airport, serves as the nearest airport situated on NH21 approximately 50km south of Manali and 10 km south of Kullu Town. Air India operates flights to this airport from Delhi on a regular basis. For travellers arriving by road from Delhi and Chandigarh, they have to cover 570 km and 310 km respectively. It is highly recommended that you book our Delhi to Shimla Manali Tour package. This way, you and your group can reach this serene hill station effortlessly, and hence, can make the most out of your holidays in this winter wonderland.

Things to Do in Manali

 In Manali, Everyone gets an opportunity to quench their thirst for exciting experiences. For adrenaline junkies, head to Solang Valley, famous for paragliding, helicopter rides, skiing, trekking, zorbing, and much more. In case Rohtang Pass remains inaccessible due to heavy snowfall, Hampta Pass is also a great choice where one can immerse oneself in a beautiful and calm ambience. Being a minute corridor connecting the Kullu Valley to Lahaul, Hampta Pass serves as a trekking trail and a camping ground.

4. Leh, Ladakh

Leh, with its unique culture and cold deserts, is the joint capital and largest town of Ladakh. Throughout the city, there is profound Tibetan culture and Buddhist roots with monasteries. During the winter season, temperatures fluctuate from -19 to -15 degrees. This means your experience in this town will be full of snowfall activities amidst majestic mountains covered in white.

How to Reach Leh?

Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport operates flights from Delhi. Weekly flights from Jammu and Srinagar are also available. Also, one can reach the destination by driving via Leh-Manali for 26 hours.

Things to Do in Leh

Travellers are welcome to explore top-notch attractions like Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and many monasteries throughout the year. Do not forget to try food items, especially yak momos and cheese. Also, stroll the vibrant markets and go for some traditional shopping.

5. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

With famous attractions like Happy Valley, Camel’s Back Road and Kempty Falls, Mussoorie is a top-rated hill station in the Dehradun district. Nestled beautifully in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan range, this hill station is famous as The Queen of the Hill.

How to Reach Mussoorie?

The nearest airport, Jolly Grant, is located in Dehradun at a distance of 60km from the town. If you decide to reach by train, Book your train tickets to Dehradun, the nearest railway station. For a road trip from Delhi to Mussoorie, the journey demands a seven-hour drive.

Things to Do in Mussoorie

There is so much to explore, including Mall Road, Jawalaji Temple, Nag Tibba, and Gun Hill. With underrated sports and a peaceful atmosphere, you will have an easy-going time in this town.

Conclusion

The above-mentioned location truly deserves the title of Winter Wonderland. It would be best to take a break from your bustling routine and venture into the picturesque hill stations, boasting majestic mountains and hidden gems amidst serene surroundings, in North India.

Read More: Top 10 Coldest Places in India for Honeymoon