Shimla to Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh
This classic drive of about 65 kilometres on National Highway 5 is perfect for those seeking a rewarding yet manageable winter experience. The journey from Shimla takes you through popular spots like Kufri and Fagu, winding through dense forests of deodar
and pine. In winter, these forests are often draped in snow, and the famous apple orchards of the region stand silent and beautiful under the white cover. Narkanda itself, sitting at an altitude of about 2,700 metres, offers a quieter alternative to the crowds of Shimla and Manali. The reward for this drive is the stunning panoramic view of the snow-clad Greater Himalayan ranges. For an even better vista, the drive up to Hatu Peak is a must, though the road can be challenging and may require a 4x4 vehicle or a short trek if there's heavy snow.
Srinagar to Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
Often described as a journey into a winter wonderland, the 50-kilometre drive from Srinagar to Gulmarg is one of North India’s most iconic. The trip, which usually takes around two hours, can stretch to three in winter due to snow on the roads. The final 13-kilometre ascent from the town of Tangmarg is the most dramatic part of the journey. This steep, winding road cuts through dense pine forests, with snow-laden branches creating a tunnel-like effect. During heavy snowfall, local authorities may require you to switch to a 4x4 vehicle with snow chains at Tangmarg for safety. The destination, Gulmarg or the 'Meadow of Flowers', is India's premier skiing resort. The drive sets the perfect stage for the breathtaking alpine scenery that awaits, including the famed Gondola ride up towards Apharwat Peak.
Manali to Solang Valley, Himachal Pradesh
For those in Manali, the short 14-kilometre drive to Solang Valley is the easiest way to find yourself in the heart of a Himalayan snowscape. This brief journey, taking about 30-45 minutes, heads north along the Beas River towards the Atal Tunnel, offering magnificent views of towering, snow-dusted peaks. Solang Valley transforms into Manali's primary hub for winter sports from December to February. The open meadows become a playground for skiing, snowboarding, and snow-tubing. The accessibility of this route makes it a favourite for families and those new to mountain driving in winter. While the road is generally well-maintained, traffic can build up, especially on weekends, so an early start is always recommended to make the most of the day.
Dehradun to Auli, Uttarakhand
This is a more committing but incredibly rewarding road trip, covering nearly 300 kilometres from Dehradun and usually requiring an overnight stop. The route follows the sacred Ganga and later the Alaknanda rivers, passing through key spiritual towns like Rishikesh, Devprayag, and Rudraprayag before reaching Joshimath. From Joshimath, the final 16-kilometre climb to Auli is steep and can be icy, especially on shaded turns. Auli, situated at almost 3,000 metres, is renowned for its reliable and heavy snowfall, making it a top destination for skiing. The drive itself is a journey through the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas, with the landscape becoming progressively more dramatic. The stunning views of the Nanda Devi range from the slopes of Auli are the grand prize at the end of this epic winter drive.
The Kinnaur Route: Into the Baspa Valley, Himachal Pradesh
For the more adventurous driver looking for solitude, the road into Kinnaur's Baspa Valley is an unforgettable expedition. Continuing on the highway past Narkanda, the route follows the Sutlej River gorge before turning off at Karcham towards Sangla. This leg of the journey takes you deep into one of Himachal's most beautiful valleys. The drive to Chitkul, known as the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border, is particularly stunning in winter. The road winds through pine forests and past traditional wood-and-stone Kinnauri villages, with the frozen Baspa River often visible below. This is a serious winter drive where temperatures can plummet well below zero. A reliable 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, as are careful planning and flexibility, but the reward is access to a pristine, snow-covered landscape far from the usual tourist trails.
