As the crisp air of winter 2025 begins to settle across India, popular hill stations are transforming into enchanting snow-laden paradises. The arrival of the season's first snowflakes heralds a magical travel window, where snow-dusted pine forests shimmer and cozy mountain towns awaken with a unique charm. For those yearning for adventure or a serene escape, several destinations offer the quintessential first snowfall experience.
Gulmarg in Jammu & Kashmir, renowned for its world-class skiing and Asia's highest cable car, is a premier destination for snow enthusiasts. The ski season typically runs from December to March, with peak snowfall often occurring in January and February, reaching 1-2 meters. Reports indicate early snowfall was observed in Gulmarg in October 2025, signaling a promising start to the winter season. Manali, in Himachal Pradesh, sees its surrounding mountains adorned with a white mantle in early winter. Solang Valley, a hub for adventure seekers, offers activities like skiing and snowboarding. Significant snowfall is expected to begin in the last week of December 2025, with January being the peak season with constant snowfalls. Light snow has been reported in Solang Valley towards the end of October, while Rohtang Pass often receives its first seasonal snow earlier in the month.
McLeod Ganj and Dharamshala, nestled against the Dhauladhar range, anticipate their first snow around December, adding to their profound spiritual ambiance. Although snowfall is rare in Dharamshala itself, snow is likely in higher altitude areas such as McLeod Ganj and Triund, especially in late December and early January. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh, becomes even more enchanting with snowfall, while the nearby Khajjiar resembles a fairytale meadow. The best time to visit Khajjiar to see snow is from December to February, as snow often falls here during this period, making it an ideal place for observing winter landscapes. Auli in Uttarakhand is a delight for skiers and trekkers, with the Garhwal Himalayas glistening under fresh snow. The skiing season in Auli typically commences in late December and extends through March, with January and April offering the best conditions. Temperatures can drop to -16 degrees Celsius.
Shimla, India's iconic hill retreat, transforms into a snow-covered wonderland each winter, with Kufri being a particularly popular spot for families and couples seeking snowy escapades. Kufri typically experiences its heaviest snowfall from December to February. According to reports, light snowfall is possible in Kufri and Narkanda, near Shimla, in late October 2025, while other versions mention that the first snowfalls in Shimla and Kufri usually occur in late December or early January. The early October snowfall in the Western Himalayas, including Gulmarg and key Himachal destinations, has brought down temperatures and created an optimistic outlook for the upcoming tourism season.
The first snowfall in India is more than just a meteorological event; it's a vibrant celebration of winter's arrival, inviting travelers to witness nature's artistry and embrace the season's unique offerings.