Snow is an essential part of winter in India. While the country’s mild climate means you won’t find snow everywhere all year, you can see it up close in the north and northeast starting in November and December. If you’re looking for a December trip with snow, cosy sunsets, and fresh mountain air, these five towns are great choices.
Auli is often called India’s “ski capital,” and December marks the beginning of its peak snow season. Perched above 8,000 feet, the town unfolds like a winter postcard—oak forests, snowy slopes, encapsulating views of peaks like Nanda Devi and Kamet. As snowfall settles, Auli’s skiing trails open for beginners and professionals alike, with Asia’s one of the longest cable car gliding over the ridges. The air is crisp, the light is golden, and the silence of the Garhwal Himalayas makes this one of India’s most beautiful snow towns.
Few hill towns enjoy the kind of cinematic winter popularity that Manali does. December ushers in steady snowfall in upper Manali, Old Manali, and—unmissably—Solang Valley. Tourists flock here for adventure sports like skiing, tubing, snowboarding and snowmobile rides, all while being surrounded by the dramatic Pir Panjal peaks. But beyond the adventure, Manali shines through its quieter corners—its apple orchards dusted with snow, steaming momos on chilly evenings, and the gentle roar of the Beas River threading through the whitened landscape. It’s a town where winter feels alive, festive and endlessly photogenic.
A Gondola cable car in Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir (Photo: Wikipedia)
Gulmarg transforms into a world-class winter playground in December. Known for receiving some of the heaviest snowfall in the region, the town is blessed with smooth slopes and dense pine forests that are often layered with snow. The Gulmarg Gondola—one of the world’s highest cable cars—carries visitors up to nearly 14,000 feet, where snow spreads as far as the eye can see. Skiing, snowboarding, and trekking on ice-covered trails are major draws, but Gulmarg’s winter also appeals to those seeking calm: quiet walks, frozen meadows, and the ethereal beauty of Kashmir in its purest white form. It’s the closest India gets to an alpine fantasy.
Tawang Monastery (Photo: Wikipedia)
For travellers seeking a unique experience, Tawang is an ideal destination to witness snowfall in December. At over 10,000 feet, this northeastern town often receives early, heavy snowfall, covering its monasteries, lakes, and mountain passes in white. The 17th-century Tawang Monastery, the second-largest in Asia, stands out against the snowy peaks, and the road to Sela Pass becomes a beautiful, icy path. December is freezing here, but the warm welcome from the Monpa people and the peaceful scenery make Tawang a memorable winter trip.
While Gulmarg is more famous, Pahalgam is quieter and more peaceful, making it perfect for those who like calm over crowds. In December, snow covers this Lidder Valley town, with pine forests, frozen rivers shining in the sunlight, and meadows blanketed in white. Nearby Aru Valley and Betaab Valley are also beautiful, great for walks, pony rides, and taking photos. Pahalgam’s charm is in its simple, relaxed feel; everything slows down, and you can really experience winter here.
