There's good news for travellers as winter has arrived early in India’s highlands. The Western Himalayas, usually blanketed in snow from late November
onwards, have already been covered by a gorgeous white coat, turning the region into a winter wonderland. Gulmarg, Rohtang Pass, Sinthan Top, and the Dhauladhar ranges are among the first to welcome the season, and for travellers chasing snow, the Diwali long weekend is as good a time as any to visit. Even the hill towns weren’t left out. Places like Dharamsala, McLeodganj, Palampur, Kangra, Chamba, Dalhousie, and Bharmour experienced an early winter chill with plummeting temperatures, dense morning fog, and light snow in the upper regions.
Places To See Snow In India
Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
Often called the “Jewel of Kashmir,” Gulmarg saw the season's first snowfall on October 2, and will soon become a hotbed for skiers and snow lovers. While hiking trails are aplenty here, the most iconic experience remains the Gondola ride which offers panoramic views of snow-dusted peaks.
Rohtang Pass, Himachal Pradesh
An arterial road for the state, Rohtang Pass connects Manali to the Lahaul-Spiti valley. The region, which has already seen early snow, is offering thrilling photo opportunities and a chill that reminds you winter is here.
Sinthan Top, Jammu & Kashmir
A lesser-known gem in Kashmir's Pir Panjal ranges, Sinthan Top is a high-altitude mountain pass with breathtaking vistas. The first snowfall has already hit the peaks here, and has added to the region's repute as a worthy winter vacation destination, especially if you're into adventure sports and mountaineering.
Dhauladhar Ranges, Himachal Pradesh
Stretching across Dharamsala and Kangra, the Dhauladhars are known for their dramatic cliffs and peaks that peep from the clouds on a good day. It is already snowing here, with more expected months across hill stations like Dalhousie, Dharamshala and McLeodganj, where temperatures have dipped in the last few days.
