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If you live in Delhi and crave snow and mountain vibes, you don’t have to go far. Winter is the best time for a quick trip to the hills—think Uttarakhand’s
quiet forests or Himachal’s classic hill stations. Plenty of spots within 500 km promise snowy slopes, scenic walks, and that cosy winter feeling. Here’s where you’ll actually find snowfall from late December to February.
Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand (290 km)
Dhanaulti is one of the closest places to Delhi for snow. It’s peaceful, wrapped in tall deodar forests, and sits at about 2,286 metres. January usually brings a blanket of snow that transforms everything. The Kanatal–Dhanaulti forest trail is the best way to soak in the scenery—quiet woods, gentle slopes, hardly any noise. There’s also the Eco Park, a few adventure camps, and apple orchards. Unlike its noisy neighbour Mussoorie, Dhanaulti gives you that slow, calm holiday vibe.
Shimla–Kufri, Himachal Pradesh (340 km)
Everyone knows Shimla as the classic winter getaway near Delhi. Perched at 2,200 metres, it usually sees snowfall from late December to early January. Kufri, just 16 km away and a bit higher, gets even more snow. Try the Mashobra Forest Trek for cedar and oak forests with a good chance of snow on the trail. Kufri has ski slopes, pony rides, and big Himalayan viewpoints. It does get crowded, but if you want easy access and lots of tourist options, Shimla and Kufri deliver.
Kanatal, Uttarakhand (About 320 km)
Kanatal is just up the road from Dhanaulti, a bit higher at 2,590 metres. It gets snow almost every winter and is all about open valleys, big views of the Himalayas, and lots of peace. The Surkanda Devi Trek is the main attraction—a 2–3 km climb over stone paths to a temple at 2,700 metres. In winter, the trail is often covered in snow. On clear days, you’ll spot Bandarpoonch, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath. People come here for camping, forest walks, and Tehri Lake, too.
Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh (About 290 km)
Narkanda is one of the most reliable places for snow near Delhi. At 2,708 metres, it gets heavy snow almost every year, and the white cover lasts for weeks. The highlight is the Hatu Peak Trek—up to 3,400 metres through pine and oak forests. At the top, you get a full 360-degree view of the snow-loaded Himalayas. Narkanda is also popular for skiing in January and February. Since it’s less commercial than Shimla, you get a more real Himalayan winter experience.
Chail, Himachal Pradesh (About 340 km)
Chail is a quieter pick, about the same height as Shimla at 2,250 metres. It’s tucked into thick forests and gets its share of snow in peak winter. Cold weather sticks around from December to February, setting the mood for a peaceful break. The Gaura Hill trek is the main thing to do—a gentle walk in the woods with big mountain views. Chail also has a wildlife sanctuary, pretty drives, and the old Chail Palace. Since the crowds skip Chail for Shimla or Kufri, it’s perfect if you want a slow, quiet winter trip.
George Everest/Benog Tibba, Mussoorie (About 300 km)
Mussoorie is popular, but if you step away from the crowds, you’ll find quieter spots at George Everest, Benog Tibba, and Bhadraj. Mussoorie sits at 2,000 metres, and it usually snows between late December and early February. Here's all you can try out.
- George Everest Trek: This is a short hike to Sir George Everest’s old house, with huge views over the Doon Valley and snowy peaks if the weather’s clear.
- Benog Tibba Trek: It cuts through thick forest inside the wildlife sanctuary—perfect for winter landscapes.
- Bhadraj Temple Trek: Out on Mussoorie’s western side, this one’s known for sunset views and snowy trails during peak winter.
