Snowfall Near Delhi – 7 Places to Visit in Himachal

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Every winter one of the most common questions many of my friends and relatives ask me is “Brother, can you please tell me some places to see snowfall near Delhi or Snow near Delhi?

Having heard this question so many times, I thought it is better to write down a couple of articles in DoW where I can pen down such places near Delhi to find snowfall or snow. I did write one about places to find snowfall near Delhi in Uttarakhand. I am sure it was helpful to many of you who love snow or snowfall in the Himalayas like anything.

Video: Snowfall Near Delhi – 7 Places to Visit in Himachal

Here is the list of places in Himachal where you can see snow or snowfall near Delhi.

  • Manali – Solang Valley
  • Jalori Pass – Shoja
  • Prashar Lake
  • Hatu Peak – Narkanda – Kufri – Shimla
  • Pabbar Valley
  • Triund near Mcleodganj
  • Khajjiar – Dalhousie

Let’s look at them in detail one by one.

7 places to see snowfall near Delhi in Himachal

By November, winters settle in most parts of the Himalayas like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Ladakh, Kashmir, etc.. It is also the time that many of the high-altitude places like Leh – Ladakh, Spiti Valley, Lahaul Valley, Pangi Valley, Zanskar Valley, etc.. will go under hibernation for about next 5-6 months.

However, having said that the lower hills of Himachal, Uttarakhand, and Kashmir will still be connected and become the favorite spots for the lovers of the Himalayas. These spots become popular for the ones who are fond of snowfall or snow in particular 🙂 …

In these winter months of late November, December, January, and February, there are many places in Himachal Pradesh where one can see snow or snowfall near Delhi. I will share with you seven places in Himachal to witness snowfall in the coming winters 🙂 🙂 …

By saying “Snowfall Near Delhi,” I mean the places which you can cover in 3 – 5 days from Delhi at max or you can say long weekend trips from Delhi for seeing snowfall or snow. Beyond 3 – 5 days, there are more viable options I believe but let’s know some places in Himachal Pradesh where you can travel over the long weekend from Delhi to see snow or snowfall.

List of places to see snow in Himachal near Delhi
List of places to see snow in Himachal near Delhi

Download your FREE high-resolution version pdf copy of this list of places to see snow in Himachal near Delhi as an infographic guide. If, you liked it and found it helpful, please feel free to share it with your family and friends to help them too.

1. Manali – Solang Valley

The perfect place to play with snow or witness snowfall in winter in Himachal is Manali or Solang Valley due to its easy accessibility from Delhi or Chandigarh and the highest probability for a longer duration of availability of snow.

If you happen to have a long weekend, you can take the overnight Volvo to Manali from Delhi or Chandigarh and reach Manali early morning on Friday. Rest the whole day in Manali or Solang Valley; then, on the next day, you can visit snow points near Manali viz. Solang Valley, Gulaba, or Marhi.

The snow points of Gulaba or Marhi have snow almost from mid-November up to late March, and then snow can be found even up to June at Rohtang Pass. If you happen to stay at Solang Valley itself in winter, you may be able to witness snowfall too. Last day you can board the overnight Volvo again to come back home to Delhi or Chandigarh.

You should check my travel guide for Manali – Solang including sightseeing places, accommodation options, food joints, etc.. 

Hence, Manali – Solang Valley is one of the best places to see snowfall near Delhi in Himachal as the probability of finding snow or snowfall is very high. Having said that, these are some of the most crowded options as the availability of snow is almost sure shot winters when you visit Manali and Solang Valley in winters.

Solang Valley, a place to enjoy Snowfall near Delhi in Himachal
Solang Valley, a place to enjoy Snowfall near Delhi in Himachal

2. Jalori Pass – Shoja

Jalori Pass or Shoja are other options to find snowfall or snow near Delhi in the winter months of December, January & February. They are pretty close to each other and have pretty good connectivity with Delhi from the Mandi side all around the year.

In fact, by taking some locals along, you can even do a snow trek to Serloskar Lake to see it all frozen in winters. But, please plan it with some local or a guide and after taking the advice from locals in Shoja on its feasibility.

As Jalori Pass and Shoja are on the way to Manali (diversion from Aut-Mandi), you can take the overnight Volvo to Manali from Delhi or Chandigarh and then get down at Bhunter, Kullu from where taxis are easily available for about Rs 1000-1200. You can rest at Shoja for a day or two and follow the same path to reach back home on the last day.

In summer, one can actually go down to the other side of Jalori Pass to come back to Delhi from Narkanda – Shimla route but you will not find snow in the summertime at Jalori Pass.

If interested in more details on Jalori Pass – Shoja including how to reach it, accommodation options, etc.. you can go through the Tirthan Valley Travel Guide

Jalori Pass - Shoja, a place to enjoy Snowfall near Delhi
Snow at Shoja – Jalori Pass, Photo Credit: Ravindra Kumar

3. Prashar Lake

Prashar Lake near Mandi is another place with an overnight journey where you can find snow or snowfall near Delhi in Himachal in the winter months from December to March.

You need to follow the Delhi – Chandigarh – Manali highway to reach Mandi from where it is about a 1.5-2 Hrs drive to Prashar Lake via Kuatalya – Baghi villages. Prashar Lake is about 20 km from Baghi village.

Cars can almost reach the top of Parashar Lake normally. But in winter, when there is a lot of snow on the road, you need to consider parking your vehicle at the most practical point you find below near Baghi village or on the way and then start the snow hike to Prashar Lake. The trek to Prashar Lake can last almost about 4 Hrs in case there is too much snow on the road 😉 …

Do not forget to carry a water bottle with water in it when trekking to Prashar Lake in winter. You will need it on the way up to it as there are no drinking sources available on the route.

Prashar Lake itself is really amazing to visit and with snow all around it, a heavenly sight indeed.

As you need to hit Mandi, again you can take the overnight Volvo to Manali from Delhi or Chandigarh and then get down at Mandi from where taxis are easily available for about Rs 1500-1800 to Prashar Lake. You can spend a day there at the forest rest house and walk to the Prashar Lake anytime you want, preferably the next morning.

So, considering you start Thursday night, by Friday late noon, you shall be at the top. You can spend Saturday at the rest house exploring the lake or rest amidst nature. Sunday early morning can come down and start the journey back home. For booking of FRHs, you can refer to the article How to Book HP PWD Rest Houses or FRHs.

First View… The Semi Frozen Prashar Lake
First View… The Semi Frozen Prashar Lake

4. Hatu Peak – Narkanda – Kufri – Shimla

Next on the list is Hatu Peak – Narkanda where you can enjoy snow or snowfall near Delhi in Himachal in the winter months of January and February or even mid-March at least at Hatu Peak.

Narkanda is a very easy 8-9 Hrs drive from Delhi via Shimla or one can take an overnight Volvo to Shimla from where Narkanda is just about 60 km away and taxis are easily available from Shimla.

If you are lucky, you can even enjoy the snow in these winter months at Kufri – Shimla as well especially around the new year window. These are in fact the closest places to Delhi where you can find snowfall or snow in Himachal Pradesh and can easily be done over a weekend by leaving Friday night and being back by Sunday late night.

You can always check my detailed article on how to plan a trip to Shimla and Manali.

Hatu Peak - Narkanda, a place to enjoy Snowfall near Delhi
Snow at Hatu Peak – Narkanda, Photo Credit: Hill Post

5. Pabbar Valley (Kharapathar – Shelapani – Rohru – Chanshal)

Pabbar Valley which includes places like Kharapathar – Shelapani – Rohru – Chanshal, located about 120 odd km from Shimla is another place where you can find snow or snowfall near Delhi in Himachal Pradesh in the winter months of December to February even March – April at least towards Chanshal Pass.

As said in one of my earlier articles 12 Must-Visit Offbeat Places in Himachal Pradesh, Pabbar Valley is one of the most enchanting places in Himachal Pradesh yet isolated from the tourist rush to an extent as of now. It offers some awesome panoramic views along with multiple nature walks/hikes in the dense orchards and forests all along the valley.

To reach Pabbar Valley, you need to take the diversion road from Theog, a place ahead of Shimla. The diversion road generally is not that good in condition, and it is better to make a trip to Pabbar Valley in case you have at least four days in hand to really enjoy the journey as well, rather being just an “on the road” type journey in search of snow. 

You can also club Chakrata in Uttarakhand as you can travel from that side to Rohru and exit from Narkanda in Himachal. I did a similar trip as documented in the itinerary for Rohru – Chansal Pass trip.

Pabbar Valley, a place to enjoy Snowfall near Delhi
Snow at Pabbar Valley, Photo Credit: Sudhir Khimta – Flicker

6. Triund near Mcleod Ganj

Triund, located at a 4 hrs hike from Dharamkot – Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala, is another place near Delhi to find snowfall or snow in Himachal over a long weekend trip in the winter months of late December to March.

However, it might not be possible to reach the top of Triund in the winter unless you are in for a hardcore adventure. But, on the way to Triund from Mcleod Ganj, you will find plenty of snow to play with and come back to Mcleod Ganj for a good night’s sleep.

Again, if lucky, you might get to see snowfall even at Mcleod Ganj as well, especially in early January – February. In the extreme ends of winters, the snow is available higher up towards Triund, and as the core winter months approach that is January & February, there is ample snow that can be found on the way to Triund as well.

You can take an overnight Volvo to Dharamshala – Mcleodganj on a Friday night. Reach there on Saturday. Take a rest and enjoy in Mcleodganj or Dharamkot. Sunday morning hike on a trail to Triund for a couple of hours to play in the snow and come back to take the evening Volvo back home from Dharamshala. If you want to travel up to Triund and camp, then better to travel on Thursday night by adding one more day to the plan.

Triund near Mclead Ganj, a place to enjoy Snowfall near Delhi
Snow at Triund near Mcleodganj Photo Credit: Triund Hill

7. Khajjiar – Dalhousie

Khajjiar, commonly called an Indian version of Switzerland, is another place near Delhi that receives a good amount of snowfall in the winter months of January and February.

Khajjiar meadows in snow look so beautiful as if a white carpet has been laid by nature amidst long pine trees kissed with snow over hills in the backdrop, a dream probably. It becomes almost hard to believe your eyes 😉 … However, seeing snow at Khajjiar is a lucky affair too sometimes.

Khajjiar is an overnight drive from Delhi and easily connected via Pathankot – Chakki Dam railway station. So, you can also take the overnight train to Pathankot – Chakki dam, and from there, take a taxi to reach Khajjiar via Dalhousie. The next day you can rest at Khajjiar and then start the journey back on Sunday to reach Delhi in the same order.

In case you have 4 days, you can even enjoy more by exploring more places around Khajjiar as Kalatop, Chamba, Jotte, etc..

Check this comfortable 4-day itinerary for visiting Dalhousie – Khajjiar – Chamba:

  • Day 1: Delhi – Ambala – Banur – Kharad – Roopnagar – Hoshiyarpur – Dasuya – Mukerian – Pathankot – Chakki – Dhar – Tunnahati – Banikhet – Dalhousie
  • Day 2: Dalhousie – Chamera Lake (21 km) – Chamba (40 km) – Gete (17 km) – Jot (12 km) – Gete (12 km) – Khajjiar (7 km)
  • Day 3: Khajjiar – Rest day
  • Day 4: Khajjiar – Dalhousie – Delhi
Khajjiar, a place to enjoy Snowfall near Delhi
Snow at Khajjiar, Photo Credit: Apurv, BCMT

Conclusion

Now, you know about these ten places to visit in Himachal near Delhi to see snowfall or play with snow in the coming winters. I am sure that you are not going to visit them in just a year only 😀 …

So, now I believe that this series of two articles for Himachal and Uttarakhand will help you upgrade your winter travel bucket list to play with snow near Delhi in winter for the next 3-5 years. 

Have a travel question?? You can follow me on Instagram and subscribe to my YouTube channel to ask your travel questions in a direct message on Instagram or comment on my YouTube videos.

If you happen to know any other such places in Himachal that I missed in this list where we can enjoy snow or snowfall near Delhi over a weekend trip of 3-5 days, please feel free to share them with me in the comments section below.

Feel free to share this article with your friends or families who are planning a trip to Himachal in the coming winter to play with snow or enjoy snowfall near Delhi.

NOTE: I have given Photo Credits with proper links to the people whose pictures have been used as DevilOnWheels strongly oppose plagiarism. In case, any of the owners of these pictures feel that the proper credit with a link is not enough, please send an email or leave a comment and I will remove the picture immediately and replace them with my known friends.

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221 Comments

  1. Comments section gets closed in 90 days. To ask your travel questions, you can follow my YouTube Channel for a faster reply or for a much slower reply follow me on Instagram. :)

  2. Hi Dheeraj, amazing article and really like your passion to travel as we’ll as share your experience with the community. I am planning to travel from Delhi around Feb 15 for 4 days. Wish to experience snowfall, any pointers? Thanks

    • Bharat, definite snowfall cannot be guaranteed though for snow in Feb, most of the places mentioned in the article above will be fine to witness snow and play with it. Snowfall can only be predicted 2-3 days before and that can also be not true as we are just mere mortals 🙂 … In next few days, it is expected to snow.

  3. Hello Dheeraj,

    Great info on your site. I, along with a few friends, are planning to drive to Kumaon from Gurgaon.
    We leave on the 24th Dec and planning to be back on 2nd Jan.
    Plan is to do Gurgaon – Mukteshwar – Jageshwar – Pithoragarh – Munsyari – Chaukori – Almora – Gurgaon. Do you think we will find snowfall along the way? Any precautions to take in the hills?

    Thank a lot!

    • Divakar in the same hope of snowfall I am leaving on this very circuit of Kumaon on 25th Dec, hope to see you up there on the way may be in Munsiyari. Yes, Munsiyari or hike up there should have presence of snow and I am counting on it only 😀 😀

  4. Dheeraj Singh on

    Hi Dheeraj
    I M planing 4days trip (1st Jan to 4th Jan) From Kangra to Chamba to Khajjiar to Dalhousie by my Car.
    I want Know road status for these days (any blocked due to snow).
    I also want to visit kalatop .
    can I reach kalatop by my car on 3rd jan.

  5. Pingback: How to hire a Self Drive Car on Rent for Ladakh or Himalayas - Devil On Wheels™

    • Neeraj, go over to Manali and beyond and you will find snow up there. Also, you can find snow up towards Tunganath Temple trek from Chopta and if it snows before that date, then of course at Chopta as well.

  6. Prasanta Dey on

    Hi we are planning to visit Khajjiar in the month of Jan i.e 24-26th Jan’15. please suggest best hotel with good food and stay. we have kids with us.

  7. Pingback: 5 More Places to see Snowfall in Uttarakhand near Delhi

    • Hey Dheeraj,
      Amazing information thanks a lot. Just a small query.. I am planning to go with my friends to kufri around 23(night)-26th dec.. Is it possible to find snow there or can u suggest some place which is equally closer from delhi where we can see snow.

      • Yash, all depends upon the weather conditions and your luck with it 🙂 … Keep a tap on weather updates, usually it snows during that time but as I said no one can gurantee if it will happen or not before couple of days, it can be predicted to a certain proximity.

    • Dheeraj: very useful info. Am planning to travel between 26 and 30 December from Delhi. Since I cannot travel long hours on road with my 2 year kids, what is the nearest destination, reachable by train where I can find snow?
      Does places like chail, Shimla have snow in the last week of December? Thanks once again

      • Sudhir, last week at most places depend upon actual weather during those days. Winters are already delayed this year and not sure if this year there will be snow up there or not. In general from xmas it starts snowing.

  8. Shailendra on

    Hi Dheeraj
    Could you suggest the best & nearest destination by self driving from Delhi in the first week / last week of JAN for SNOW VIEWING.
    regards,

  9. Pingback: Snowfall Near Delhi | 5 Places to Visit in Uttarakhand

  10. subodh sharma on

    Hello Dheeraj,
    Thank you so much for sharing all the information. It is very useful.
    I am planning to visit in the first week of January with kids. Which are the best Place for Snowfall (not manali n shimla)

    • Subodh, you will not go wrong with any of the 5 more listed above in January to withness snow at least. Regarding snowfall it all depends upon the luck you have.

  11. Thanks Dheerajji for the article. Where can I found next articles on Snow Fall Near Delhi?
    Debshis ghosh.

    • Debashish they are scheduled to be published in the nest week only, I could not write it after this article about snowfall. Though now one is scheduled for the next week for Uttarakhand. Will publish one more for Himachal after that including 4-5 more places where we can find snow near Himachal.

  12. Wat r the chances of snow at prashar lake and Triund in end of January?

  13. Dheeraj, another beautiful and secluded place is Billing, also known as the best paragliding site in the world. Lot of snow in January with vehicle going till snow permits.
    Billing is around 25 km. From Baijnath and 40km from Palampur, both are easily accessible by overnight volvo and ordinary hrtc buses.

    • Manish, yeah, that is one nice place indeed and one can find snow up there. I am publishing soon another part of the series with 4 more places to find snow in Himachal very soon along with the places to find snow in Uttarakhand. Bir – Billing is there on the list and Barot – Luhardi too.

  14. Hi, Dheeraj,
    Me and my friends are planning to visit any place in India where we can enjoy snow(skiing) during 21st to 24th Nov, 2014. Is it possible to find snow(for skiing) then??

    • Milan, you can try your luck with Manali / Rohtang Pass Snow Points of Marhi or Solang Valley where it will most likely the snow presence and skiing options available too.

  15. Hrishikesh Patel on

    I am planning to visit HP in 1-7 Feb 2014. Which place should we visit and will be good to travel ?

    • Hrishikesh , Himachal will be beautifully loaded with snow at many of the tourist places during the time of your visit. What is your interest and from where are you traveling? What is the commute?

      • Hrishikesh on

        We will be hiring an 4 wheeler. We are coming from Pune Maharashtra.

        • In that case try to follow the plan as below which will help you live some moments in Offbeat Himachal and then snow filled Manali and around towards Rohtang Pass that will give you the touristy feel 🙂

          Day 1 – Leave from Delhi by overnight Volvo for Manali. Get down at Aut/Bhunter near Kullu next morning (Day 2) where you can get to reach Tirthan Valley (about 40-45 KMs from there)
          Day 2 – Tirthan Valley – Relaxing day besides Tirthan River
          — Stay at Raju Bharti Guest House (you will need booking well in advance, so finalize it ASAP) other you need to stay at some other property. Raju is a pioneer in that region, so will say do not miss the stay there as it is quite an experience in itself.
          Day 3 – Tirthan Valley
          — Enjoy the walks in the GHNP. There are two Waterfalls nearby Raju GH in the woods.
          Day 4 – Tirthan Valley – Naggar Castle (about 50 KMs)
          — Stay at Naggar Castle and enjoy the place. Very romantic with great views and food. Visit Roerich Musueum, Art Gallery and do not miss the hike to ancient Krishna Temple at the top
          — It is one of the most romantic places in Himachal
          Day 5 – Naggar Castle – Manali (about 30 KMs)
          — Manali Local sightseeing including Manu Temple, Hadimba Temple, Local Monastery, Shopping at Mall road etc etc
          Day 6 – Manali – Marhi/Gulaba Snow Points towards Rohtang Pass – Solang Valley – Manali
          – You can enjoy the first half of the day at snow point MArhi/Gulaba (whichever is accessible) and if interested may also visit Solang Valley snow point for other adventure activities
          Day 7 | Manali – Delhi by overnight Volvo
          — Relax in Manali by evening and leave from Manali by overnight Volvo.

  16. Manish Mittal on

    Hey Dhiraj,

    I am planning for a vacation in mid november in manali with my friends. So i don’t want that our vacation ruins due to bad climate.
    Plz recommend if its the right time to visit and if not please suggest me with other suitable places for my vacation.

  17. Hi Dheeraj

    I am planning to go on a Youth hostel treck to Kalatop, Khajjiar and Mangla from Dalhousie on 14th december. Is it possible to find snow then. Or else which is the best time to find snow there ? Please help. Need to book soon 🙂

    • Akash, I doubt if you will be able to find snow during that time at Kalatop as it generally starts to snow late of December only. January and February are better months to spot snowfall at Kalatop / Khajjiar.

  18. Hi dheeraj,
    I am planning to visit hatu peak this oct(possibly in 4th oct),

    1.Can u please let me know if this the right time to visit or all of the fun is there in snow time only.

    2. Plan is to do overnight journey and reach narkanda on 4th oct. I know hatu is around 8 Kms from Narkanda, but other then hatu what are the other places near Narkanda at this time.

    please help me out to sketch a plan for 4 days that is from 3rd OCT night to 7th morning or till afternoon max.

    Or, Please let me know if we should visit any other place during this time.

    • Ishan,

      1. There is no snow at this time.
      2. You can visit Tannijubbar Lake, Thanedar from Narkanda. One day you can visit Chindi / Tattapani OR Jalori Pass / Shoja from Narkanda.

  19. Hi Dheeraj,

    We are planning to go to Khajjiar, Dalhousie, Dharamshala in November. Do you have a list of moderate hotels (around upto Rs 1K) in this area?

    Thanks.

    • Ashwin, these all are tourist places and you should be able to get budgets on your need. In Dharamshala – Mcleod Ganj, nothing beats the economic but great option by Javed bhai: Pink House | McLeodganj (Dharamsala)

  20. Hi Dheeraj …. you are doing a world of good to us fellow travellers by sharing all this information … now I know where to look for any sort of travel advice 🙂

    I was searching for your other article in the series (places of snowfall in Uttarakhand( but could not find it … can you please paste the link ..

    Secondly, all this while unfortunately I have never experienced a snow fall and am determined this time to do it … can you tell me a couple of places where I can sure shot experience a snowfall in end of December / beginning of Jan … need to plan accordingly ..

    Thanks again and kudos to you for all this effort ….

    • Thank you and at the same time Sorry Shveta as that article of places of snowfall in Uttarakhand is not yet up and published. I kept a hold on it for next snowfall season 🙂 … So, you will be able to see it by October or November for sure linked in this article too.

      When it will snow, then all of the above places will surely be able to see snowfall. However, there is no rule of thumb for snowfall, for snow yes most of the places above will have snow in first week of Janurary. For Snowfall, best is to keep the plan flexible and keep an eye on the weather reports for a week or so. for the last couple of years it has been snowing in Manali as well as Shimla/Kufri or Narkanda too over the new year eve. So, expect this year too 😀

      • Thnx Dheeraj … will keep a tab on the forecasts and your upcoming article too 🙂

        • Hi Dheeraj …. was planning to go to Gulmarg to witness snowfall in first week of Jan …. is it a better bet than the above 5 in terms of witnessing snowfall … had to chose Kashmir due to paucity of time so that we can travel by air …. any idea on how the tourist situation is after the devastating floods and which is the best site to keep tab on snow forecasts .. thnx a ton …

        • Shveta, things have improved after floods and yes Gulmarg will be much nicer if you are flying directly to Srinagar. You should be able to enjoy snow up there in January.

        • Shveta, things are reviving. If you looking up for a trip to Kashmir then better to target Sonamarg, Gulmarg and Pahalgam and do Srinagar as day trip type only avoiding the stay up there.

  21. Hi, Can i see snow around dalhousie, dharmasala or Truind in the first week of May OR is it only in Manali that i can find snow during this time.

    • Ravi, Manali is the best bet to find snow up there towards Rohtang Pass in May. I doubt there will be any other place near by where you will be able to find snow in May. Triund as well I doubt, may be trek towards Laka Glacier would help.

  22. Hi Dheeraj,

    Am planning for the honeymoon in the first week of May this year, we both love snow so we were thinking of visiting HP.. But reading ur article I feel the snow will b at it’s peak only til about Mar, please correct me if am wrong.. In case am wrong, is it worth visiting this place in the month of May? Also we had few other options as well apart from HP, like Nainital/Dehradun-Mussoorie, Kausani, munsyari of Uttarakhand. Please suggest which option vl b the best for the month May..

    • Manju, in May, you can only find snow towards Rohtang Pass ahead of Manali only. That is the best bet to get snow in May. Munsiyari in Uttarakhand will also have some snow at some places ahead in May.

    • Riya, predicting snowfall is very difficult but you can surely see snow in March at most of the above mentioned places. As I write this most of the places in Himachal has loads and loads of snow, including all above places.

  23. Steven Renganatthan on

    Hi Mr Dheeraj
    Your informations are really helpful.I am from Malaysia and planning to go to New Delhi in second week of December.I have experienced snows in USA but some of my family member are longing to see a place that is full of snow.I want to go to a place on lets say first day , experience some beautiful snow areas and return back to Delhi on the same day…Is it possible.Pls advise

    • Hi Steven,

      There is no place near Delhi where you can make a day trip and return back Delhi the same day after seeing snow. Minimum you need is 3 days if you want to rest a bit else weekend/2 days in case you are ready to spend most of the time on road.

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

  24. HI DHEERAJ,

    ME ND MY FREIND ARE PLANNING TO VISIT SHIMLA ON TOMORROW, AND WE ARE GOING TO STAY THIS FULL WEKEND. WE ARE EXPECTING TO SEE SNOW COVERED HILLS, CAN YOU PLEASE SUGGEST US WHETHER WE WOULD SEE SNOW. ALSO SUGGEST ANY NEAR PLACE TO SHIMLA WHERE WE FIND CAN SNOWY HILLS.

  25. Hi Dheeraj,
    First of all I would like to compliment you on the wonderful compilation of the places along with the details n your blog. They are really helpful.
    I am particularly keen on going visiting “parashar lake” kindly advise if it can be recomended for a couple as I would be traveling with my wife and any other details about the place that can be usefull.
    If not kindly advice any other place that we both can cover on our vehicle in about four days time leaving on thus i.e 30th Jan. The main focus is to see snow.

    Thanks

    • Hi Jaspreet,

      Unless you are lovers of adventure, please avoid Parashar at this time of the year. There is loads of snow p there and I went there in Jan first week when the snow was too much about 1-2 feet at most places. We had to walk about 7 KMs to reach the lake. The rest houses are up there but there may not be any light and all washrooms are closed since there is no water up there. Hence, considering you are traveling with your wife I will not suggest unless you both are adventure people. You will have to walk more than 10 KMs now 🙂

      On the safe side, I will suggest you can visit Barot Village if you looking out for some peace other wise visit Narkanda and Chindi which will be mix of both tourist place as well as secluded/calm place in the name of Chindi with 4 days.

      Finally, you will also not go wrong with Tirthan Valley with a day trip to Jalori Pass / Shoja for snow presence.

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

      • Hi Dheeraj,
        Appreciate your prompt reply and tip on the lake buddy, I think its best to avoid it for now I have been to Barot while visiting Pong Dam and have covered Narkanda while going to Thanedhar. Have also covered Shoja … jalori n the trek to the serloskar Lake.
        I was thinking of repeating Jalori bcoz of the snow, but not too keen as we have seen it already although I was looking for some other alternatives even towards UK would be fine where we can find snow at this time.
        Thanks in adv:)

        • Jaspreet, cool. So you have pretty much covered these places. In that case if you have not been to Deoria Tal / Chopta, then please head out there in Uttarakhand. You can check the Travel Guide section of the blog for their detailed guides. Or there is this place by the name Rajgarh in Sirmaur, Himachal where you can drive towards Nohradhar, Haripurdhar to get the taste of snow. Pretty offbeat 😉

        • Many thanks Dheeraj… really appreciate your help:) keep up wit the good work;)

  26. sanjoy ram on

    Hi……i am planning to visit manali and shimla in mid of feb. can i got snow in this time. if yes where i got it.Previously i was visited in nov but can not get snow.so can u suggest me how we made the tour plan from bhubaneswar(odissa).we are two pair of couple.please help us.thanks……

    • Hello Sanjoy,

      You will be able to play with snow in Feb at snow points around Manali and then Hatu Peak, Narkanda near Shimla. Let me know how many days you have in hand?

      Regards
      Dheeraj sharma

      • sanjoy ram on

        Thanks…plz tell me in which places we can visit in shimla and manali.we r staying 3days in both the places.What is the approx taxi fare from manali to shimla .

        • Hi Sanjoy,

          You can follow something like below:
          Day 1 | Reach Shimla from by overnight Volvo from previous night. Check-in and rest at hotel. In the second half explore local Shimla including Shimla Ridge, Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Back to Hotel By Evening.
          Day 2 | Shimla – Narkanda – Hatu Peak – Narkanda – Shimla or you can do Shimla – Kufri – Chail – Shimla (Little les hectic :))
          Day 3 | Shimla – Manali
          Day 4 | Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
          Day 5 | Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass or Rphtang Pass if safe to reach there. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali and on the way do paragliding at Solang Valley, if required.
          Day 6 | Manali – Delhi.

          Regards
          Dheeraj Sharma

      • Hi dheeraj we are a group of four guys who have 8 days to relax and we would like to spend them in a place where we can be sure to see snowfall everyday , also we plan to drive on our own from Chandigarh , our budget being 2000 per day per room, can u plz suggest us a place and also if it is advisable to drive down there. Thank you

        • Nikhil, there is a strange requirement of snowfall everyday 😀 😀 … The above places will not go wrong as far as snow availability is concerned at this time of the year. You can check out any of it.

  27. hi Dheeraj..!!..thanks for the valuable information..i m planing to visit a place with snowfall in the last week of jan’14 ..please suggest which place would be best to njoy snowfall and scenic beauty near delhi..thanks in advance..!!

    • Hello Gaurav,

      Snowfall is something hard to predict for mere mortal souls like us. However, if you are interested in snow then you can visit above mentioned places in the article where you can play with snow in last week of Jan. Depending upon the number of days in hand you can opt for the place.

      Regards
      Dheeraj

      • Dheeraj I and my friend plan to see Himachal in December. Can you tell me trip for 3-4 days, which has kinnaur in it.

        Thanks.

        • Vickey, for 3-4 days Kinnaur will be quite far and tiring. I will suggest you pickup any place from the above list or may be visit Tirthan Valley or Barot.

    • sanjoy ram on

      we are staying three days in Manali and three days in Shimla.Let me know one more thing how could i reach from manali to shimla ? we are four.

  28. Hi Dheeraj,

    I want to go on a solo trip for 2 nights and 3 days from delhi from 4th feb to 6 feb 2014. I can leave on 4th morning and have to be back in Delhi on 6th eve/night.
    I would prefer hills and forests. Even snow covered places would do…have not been to any place with snow before.. Can u please suggest some options including possible iteneraries on a budget?
    I love photography..so any picturesque location would do..
    I have already visited simla, solang valley, kulu-manali, pangot, binsar, ranikhet, matiana, tirthan valley, hatu peak, nainital, dehradun, ranthambore, haridwar, rishikesh, kedar, badri. So any place other than this…thx..

    • Hello Srriram,

      You have been to most of the places doable in 2 days, I will suggest to venture out to Rajgarh in Sirmaur or Chakrata doing circuit that is going from Himachal side and coming out from Dehradun side if snow allows.

      Barot, Bir – Billing are two other options too.

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

  29. Shambhavi on

    Hi Dheeraj.. your blog is quite a discovery – and a pleasant one at that!! We are a group of 4 people planning to go to some place in himchal between 17th and 20th jan to view snowfall and at a non-commercialized one. We plan to drive our own car for the journey . Which place would you recommend between shoghi, shoja and chindi?

    • Hello Shambhavi,

      I will suggest you go over and visit Shoja which is much more at peace than anything else. You can make Tirthan Valley as your base an make day visit to Shoja / Jalori Pass. If you want you can stay over at Shoja too. BTW, I just returned from Parashan Lake last night and place was like ocean of snow 😉

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

  30. Thanks a lot for this..
    So can u please advice me the route whchi should take to jalori pass and in whch tirthan valley and narkanda is also there…and iam confrtable driving 350-400km at a single go.

    • Rishi, for complete guide to Tirthan Valley you can check its travel guide at the link: Delhi to Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh | Travel Guide

      Though it defines the entire circuit but due to closure of Jalori Pass you will not be able to cross it over towards Narkanda side if going from Tirthan Valley OR towards Tirthan Side if going from Narkanda side. If you are planning 350-400 approx KMs per day then please go to Narkanda and ride towards Jalori from there and reach back by evening to Narkanda for night rest. This will help you see both Narkanda as well as Tirthan and also help you with maintaining your max. day limit. Tirthan Valley will be more than 500 KMs from Delhi in one day.

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

      • THank you so much for the full itenary…
        Jst want to confrm once again that will jalori pass will open if i go from narkanda side?

        • Rishi, Jalori Pass will be closed to pass through highly likely but you can travel upto Jalori Pass mostly, let’s say about 2-3 KMs before once you start encountering snow you can park the bike aside, trek up and then come down, take the bike and go back to Narkanda. So, you will have to go from one route and come back from the same route only. Hence, you cannot do the circuit. I hope this clears the doubt.

  31. hello dheeraj its so great that you helping the adventure junkies like us to explore more..
    I also wud like some suggestion. Iam planning a bike trip to some place in the mountains with snow aftr 6th jan and iam confused whr to go i have 3-4 days time and bt do not want to trek alot..i want to covr the maximum adventurous areas on my bike.
    I was thinking of places but have heard frm smwhr that narkanda,kufri,sangla,jalori pass are closed can u please suggest a place whr i can go fr few days n roads are not closed..
    Oh yeah i dont have a camp so i wont be able to camp anywhr and im comfrtable with a distance of 350km

    • Hello Rishi,

      Thank You. All the places mentioned above in the article except Parashar Lake are or remain motroable and can be done over bike. Since, you have 4 days I will suggest you can try out. Shoja and just ahead of it is Jalori Pass where you will be able to find snow. This will also help you explore Tirthan Valley for a day too. You can make Tirthan Valley as base aand then head to Shoja and Jalori Pass to play with the snow from there on.

      Alternatively you can also go towards Manali or Solang Valley to checkout snow. Narkanda will also have snow and by 8th there is expected to be snowfall in hills again.

      Regard
      Dheeraj Sharma

  32. please advice weekend travel from Delhi with kids. wanted to show them snow fall but on weekend possible. i am planning like leaving on friday night (via train) and return sunday night. or If by car need to statrt saturday monring and return sunday nihgt.

    • Hello Deepak,

      Since, it is weekend travel there was snow at Dhanaulti few days back and you can always visit Narkanda as well where you will be able to find snow around there or towards Hatu Peak.

      Regards
      Dheeraj

  33. Nice article dheeraj, i m planning a trip to either HP or UK to enjoy snowfall. I can see few places in the post where i can reach over night by self drive. Will be great if you can share your UK trip too, if not already visited may be v can plan 2gather. I love taking photos and snowfall is some thing which i always want to capture.

    • Hello Pawan,

      I must say !! Some really fine pictures up there in your Photo Blog. Well, in UK, you can try Chakrata over new year as chances of snowfall during that period is very high. You ccan go from Paunta Sahib side and come back from Dehradun side but I think I saw those pics there in your blog 🙂 … Well, overnight drive, you can surely visit Narkanda, Parashar (but trekking is involved), Shoja (about 12 Hrs drive), or stay over at Narkanda and then head out to Jalori Pass from that side.

      in UK, if you can drive a bit long, then you can visit Chopta – Deoria Tal too. There is one Sankri Village too and up ahead of it is Juda Lake which might have got frozen by this time. Then Harsil might also have got snow but again will be a long drive.

      Regards
      Dheeraj

  34. Rahul Mansur on

    Hi Dheeraj!

    My friend and I are planning a nomadic trip to Himachal for 2 weeks. We plan to start from Shimla and try and cover as much ground as we can.

    We’ll be travelling by public buses / taxis. The objective is to to try and explore the more quaint and beautiful side of Himachal as we progress.

    Could you suggest some must see places – something we shouldn’t miss?

    Also, honestly speaking, is it stupid to be going in this month? Will most of the roads be cut off? The idea was to see Himachal when there are few tourists.

    Thanks a lot.

    • Hello Rahul,

      Starting from Shimla you can do something like: Sarahan, Peo – Kalpa, Sangla, Nako, Tabo, Kaza but if you are going over in this month well, it will all be frozen at that time specially from Kalpa to further ahead towards Kaza. Otherwise, you can visit Pabbar Valley: Rohru, Kharapathar, Shelpani. and then move towards the Kullu and Paravati Valley covering Shoja, Tirthan, Kasol, Jagatsukh, Naggar, Manali and then from there return back home. You can travel from Shimla to Kullu valley via Karsog and even cover chindi and Karsog too as Jalori Pass will be cutt off.

      Regards
      Dheeraj sharma

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

      • Rahul Mansur on

        Thanks for the prompt reply, Dheeraj.
        We’re starting on the 2nd and will be travelling till the 20th.

        Wow, those are lots of options! Which route would you suggest? As told before, we’d ideally like to see the quaint and quiet side of Himachal, do a bit of trekking (if possible).

        I hope all the places you listed are connected by local buses?

        Thanks a lot again.

        • Hi Rahul,

          Well, I will suggest if you are really OK with extreme cold then only venture out on Shimla – Sarahan – Peo – Kalpa – Sangla – Nako – Tabo – Kaza. Consider -14 / -15 types there.

          Otherwise, it is better that you take the route from Shimla then explore Pabbar Valley, then move to Karsog from there, stay at Chindi. Then from there take bus to Mandi – Kullu from where plenty of options to explore Tirthan Valley or Parvati Valley. Stay near Manali at Jagatsuk or in Old Manali and ten start return from there.

          Regards
          Dheeraj Sharma

  35. Saurabh Yadav on

    Hi Dheeraj,

    You seem to be helping many people to plan vacation. I would also seek your help. We have to leave tomorrow early morning (28th Dec’13) but still not decided the place where we can get to see the snow/snowfall. The trip will just be for two days. Need you advise.

    Thanks
    Saurabh

    • Hello Saurabh,

      Thanks alot. Well, brother since you have couple of days, I will suggest that you hit the roads to Narkanda which are good in condition and you will find plenty of snow too around there.

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

    • Thank you Naina. Sorry writing my pending travel tales have kept me busy for long now so could not come up with Uttarakhand article. I hope I shall soon find time to share the second part …

  36. Planning to go to Dharamshala by car, from Dec 31st till January 5th. What route is suggested to be safer and enjoy snow / snowfall nearby / enroute. I am planning a stopover before Dharamshala , what place is suggested for stopover.

    • Hello Harry,

      You can take the Una route and break the journey at Una or Hamirpur, though generally not required. You will be able to see snow on the path to Triund from Mcleod Ganj where there is plenty of snow around. Also, there is another western disturbance about to hit Himalayas which will mean more snow 😀

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

  37. Lakshya singh on

    Hi Dheeraj, need your help…we 5-6 friends(boys only) are going to Himachal on 25 december to 1st jan..and we have visited allready dalhouji,Shimla,manali,chamba,maclodganj,khajjiaar an bharmour..we liked bharmour becoz of hevy snow and amezing big mountains.please tell us same off beat place like bharmour where we can see so much with snow..Waiting for ur reply..Thanks!! Lakshya

    • Hello Lakshay,

      If you are fine with cold then how about visiting Kinnaur Valley including Kalpa – Sangla – Sarahan? You have good 6-7 days and would love the Kinner Kailash snow filled views up there.

      I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

  38. Hi Dheeraj,
    Thank you so much for sharing all the information. It is very useful.
    I am planning to visit one of the above places in the first week of January with kids. Which are the best from road safety perspective?

    • Hi Sanjay,

      All these places are quite safe in terms of roads but when it snows, drive carefully up there on snow. Also, Parashar Lake will not be suggested option with kids as it may require quite a decent amount of trekking in winters.

      I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

  39. heyy me and a group of people are planning a trip to north india includiing shimali manali and delhi and kashmere, its gonna be at the first week of march. any chance we can witness snowy hills and mountains?

    • Abood, at that time of the year yes you will be able to see snow around Kashmir, ahead of Manali towards Rohtang Pass for sure. How many days are oy uplanning and how will you commute?

  40. Hi Dheeraj,
    We are planning to go Kufri – Shimla in last week of december.
    Is there any chances that we can find snowfall in there. Can you suggest any other place near Delhi where we can find snowfall and can easily travel there for 4 days.

    • Hi Anjali,

      Well, it has not snowed as of now anywhere recently however chances of finding in the end of December is quite high even around Kufri. I will suggest that you take a chance for Narkanda where Hatu Peak must get snow by that time of the year with high chances. Otherwise, if you have to be dead sure about snow then Manali and around is the only place where there is snow presence as of today as well. Generally snow happens in the last week of December only, so most probable chance unless you are unlucky enough to miss it 🙁

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

  41. Saurabh Sharma on

    Hi,

    Will Narkanda be a good option to see snow near Christmas? Also can tirthan valley can be considered as an outing option at the same time?

    • Saurabh, Narkanda is a good option if it snows for the season only then you will find snow but it is very near so you can take a call. Tirthan will be barren and brownish but high chances of snow at Jalori Shoja at that time of the year. You should choose one only as the route from Narkanda to Tirthan via Jalori will most likely be closed due to snow there.

      • Hi,
        Is there any way to reach Jalori-Shoja via Kasauli?, so that we can witness some snow around the place.

        • Hi Antriksh,

          Yes, you can visit Jalori – Shoja from Kasauli but that will be routes from Shimla – Narkanda OR from Shimla – Bilaspur – Mandi OR Shimla – Karsog – Mandi. Also, it has snowed over Jalaori so going over Narkanda route will not lead you to Shoja but somewhere near Jalori Pass.

          Regards
          Dheeraj

  42. planning to visit himachal in march, how good will the connectivity from chakki bank rly stn.
    jammu tawi fm mumbai reaches around 1200 hrs , how far is dalhousie fm chakki bank/ or is there any other hill station closer to chakki bank which we should visit first

    • Hi Namrata,

      There is decent connectivity from Chakki Bank too along with Pathankot for Dalhousie – Khajjiar as well as Dharamshala. Dalhousie is just 2-3 Hrs drive from Chakki bank and very well connected plus nearest to chakki bank. Then you can head to Dharamshala – Mcleod Ganj after visiting Khajjiar and Dalhousie, if required.

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

  43. Tarun Goel on

    Pathankot to Dalhousie is always good. Dalhousie is a cantt area so no halts never.

  44. Gaurav Sood on

    Hi DHeeraj I am planning to go to dalhousie from Delhi via Road . Can you please let me know about the Road condition from Pathankot to Dalhousie

    • Hello Gaurav,

      As per the last reports, Roads are fine from Pathankot to Dalhousie, nothing major broken there. So, there shall not be any issues over the road journey to Dalhousie – Khajjiar 🙂

      Regards
      Dheeraj Sharma

    • Tarun Goel on

      And if you are coming by your own vehicle, stop by Sukret Village, there is a ‘swaymbhoo shivalinga’ just few kilometers from Pathankot (15-20 maybe)


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