Snowfall In Uttarakhand: Know The Best Time And Best Spots To Visit For The Best Experience
Uttarakhand has already received the first snowfall of this winter season. On 12th September, the first snowfall blanketed the Hemkund Sahib of Chamoli District and the peaks of Badrinath Dham.
Incessant rainfall in Nainital, Dehradun, and other parts of the state has triggered a sudden drop in the temperature and this snowfall. Though a tad early this season, snowfall in Uttarakhand has been a major tourist attraction.
The beauty of the snow-clad mountains, valleys, and glaciers is unmatched. With these natural wonders in the backdrop, you will love taking photographs and enjoying the best moments of solitude.
Further, during this time, the state bustles with trekkers to Dayara Bugyal, Kedarkantha, Har Ki Doon Trek, Brahmatal Lake, and more. Chopta and Dehradun serve as the bases for many such enthralling trek routes.
So, if you want to have the best snowfall experience in India, Uttarakhand should always be on your wishlist.
Here, I have penned a guide on Uttarakhand snowfall time and the best locations to experience it.
What Is The Time For Snowfall In Uttarakhand?
Uttarakhand preps for snowfall every year from late October with sporadic precipitation in the higher altitudes. However, heavy snowfall usually starts in late November, and the season continues till February.
However, in places like Chopta, you can see snow in the high mountains, even in June. In addition, the high mountains of Badrinath Dham and Chamoli are usually the first destinations to have drizzles of snow. The year 2024 has not been an exception.
The average temperature in the state during these months varies from -2 to 15 degrees Celsius.
So, to end or begin the year on a happy note, a trip to Uttarakhand is a must!
These Are The Best Places To Experience The Magical Snowfall In Uttarakhand
With various corners of the states like Rudraprayag, Chamoli, and Pithoragarh blanketed in snow, Uttarakhand is the ultimate escapade in winter. With the sub-zero temperatures in the higher altitudes and places with snowfall as much as 2-3 meters, the state also becomes the hub of winter sports and activities.
For example, the Auli Ski Resort is one of the best in Asia.
In addition, you will find varying Uttarakhand snowfall tourism packages. The average cost of Uttarakhand winter tourism will be between INR 13000 to 65000 per person. You can customize the packages based on the snowy locations you want to explore.
Nevertheless, before you book your ticket, you must check out the entries to our list of best places to visit during snowfall in Uttarakhand.
| Places in Uttarakhand | Average Annual Snowfall | Average Temperature | Distance from Delhi | How to Reach | Best Place to Stay |
| Nainital | 70-100 cm in the higher peaks of the district | 0-15 Degree Celsius | 324 km | ⁍ You can reach Nainital from Delhi by road or train. ⁍ Further, from Delhi, you can fly to the Pantnagar Airport and then reach Nainital by road. | Cygnett Resort Mountain Breeze |
| Chopta Tungnath | 135-140 cm | 9 to -8 Degree Celsius | 384 km | ⁍ Buses and trains ply between Delhi and Rudraprayag. ⁍ However, you can fly to the Dehra Dun DEL or Jolly Grant Airport by taxi. | Chopta Meadows Heritage |
| Dhanaulti | 60 to 70 cm | -1 to 15- Degree Celsius | 218 km | ⁍ You will get a train and cabs from Delhi via Rishikesh or Dehradun. ⁍ However, you can take a flight to Jolly Grant Airport and reach Dhanaulti by road. | The Mountilla Resort |
| Chakrata | 10 to 15 cm | -5 to 10 Degree Celsius | 307 km | ⁍ It is easy to reach Chakrata via Dehradun. ⁍ You can take a train or flight to the Jolly Grant Airport from Delhi. | The Hosteller Chakrata |
| Munsiyari | 28-30 cm | -12 to 20 Degree Celsius | 603 km | ⁍ Pantnagar is the closest airport to Munsiyari, and you will get a flight from Delhi. ⁍ However, if you have a day or two to spare, you can go on a train or bus journey via Kathgodam. | The Oak-Hill Resort |
| Dayara Bugyal | 155-160 mm | -10 to 8/10 Degree Celsius | 509 km | ⁍ To reach Dayara Bugyal as fast as possible, you can fly to Jolly Grant Airport from Delhi. ⁍ Buses and train services to Dehradun are also available. | Dayara Resort |
| Khirsu | 10-12 cm | 0-25 Degree Celsius | 357 km | ⁍ To reach Khirsu from Delhi, you can take a train to Rishikesh and then continue by road. ⁍ However, you will also get the flight to the Jolly Grant Airport and then take a cab ride to Khirsu. | Khirsu GMVN Guest House |
| Auli | 2-3 Meters | -8 to 10 Degree Celsius | 518 km | ⁍ You can reach Auli from Delhi by road. ⁍ To reach Auli from Delhi by train, you will have to get down at Rishikesh or Dehradun and then take a cab ride. ⁍ The nearest airport to Auli is the Jolly Grant Airport. | The Royal Village |
| Ranikhet | 32 mm | 0 to 15 Degree Celsius | 377 km | ⁍ The fastest way to reach Ranikhet is via the Pantnagar Airport, and from there, ⁍ you can take a cab. You can take a train to Kathgodam and get a cab from there. ⁍ Otherwise, you can take a direct cab ride to Ranikhet. | The Himalayan Voyage |
With all the basics set right, let’s know the highlights of these cool destinations.
1. Nainital
Nainital is probably one of the most popular hill stations in North India, and it gears up for festivals like Nainital Winter Carnival and Uttarani during snowfall in Uttarakhand.
Further, you can explore the following locations in the town as they get covered with a blanket of snow.
⁍ Mall Road
⁍ Naini Lake
⁍ Snow View Point
A cable ride to the Snow View Point will offer you a wonderful view of the surroundings. Moreover, you can buy the best woollens from Mall Road. However, if you want to pick the most unique staff, you must visit the Tibetan Market near Naina Devi Temple.
2. Chopta Tungnath
Chopta is one of the coldest places during snowfall in Uttarakhand. A little far away, stands the Tungnath Temple, the highest of the Panch Kedars. It is also one of the highest Shiva temples in the world.
Along with the Tungnath Temple, the nearby Deoriatal, or “Indra Sarovar,” is another holy site here. It is mentioned in the Puranas.
As you reach Tungnath, you will also visit Bandarpoonch, Nanda Devi, Trishul, and other popular Himalayan mountain peaks.
Don’t forget to glimpse Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand. You will even meet Himalayan swiftlets, Himalayan griffons, and many other birds here.
Did you know that Chopta has more than 240 species of birds?
Moreover, from December to March, the Buransh-Rhododendron flowers adorn this place. So, you can experience the perfect fusion of scenic beauty and spirituality here.
3. Dhanaulti
You can give Mussoorie a miss and visit Dhanaulti to experience snowfall in Uttarakhand. At an elevation of 2,286 meters, Dhanaulti offers the best views of Doon Valley and the Himalayas.
The scenic beauty of the place complements the serene atmosphere here. Further, the skiing resorts and apple orchards make it a favorite winter escapade for people of all ages.
4. Chakrata
Chakrata is one of the hill stations in Uttarakhand that is at a higher elevation. The environment is pristine here and you can indulge in the simple pleasure of a snow walk in the locality.
The highest point in Chakrata comes with an elevation of 7250 feet. Further, as this place has fewer tourists than other locations, you can enjoy an immersive and spiritual experience here.
Chakrata looks beautiful with the snow falling off the pine trees. Further, you can explore nearby attractions like Budher Caves, Tiger Falls, Kimono Falls, Chilmiri Neck, etc.
5. Munsiyari
At an elevation of 7200 ft, Munsiyari is a year-round tourist attraction for its scenic beauty and exciting trek routes. The Milam Glacier Hike, Khalia Top Trek, Thamri Kund Trek, and Namik Glacier Trek are some of the most popular winter trekking and hiking routes here.
You will also love bird watching and skiing here. You can encounter Alpine accentors, Himalayan pika, Ultramarine flycatcher, and many other varieties here.
Moreover, Munsiyari has many amazing natural attractions nearby. Don’t miss visiting Betulidhar, Madkot Village, Maheshwari Kund, Panchachuli Peaks, and Darkot Village.
6. Dayara Bugyal
Dayara Bugyal is a popular beginner-friendly winter trek. January and February are the best two months for trekking here. At an altitude of 12,400 feet, Dayara Bugyal turns into a snowy meadow, offering a surreal vision at every corner you see.
Further, you will enjoy amazing vistas of Mount. Bandarpoonch, Gangotri I, Mt. Thalaysagar, and more from Dayara Bugyal. You will also see Draupadi Ka Danda, the spot to witness one of the deadliest avalanche rampages in recent times.
You can camp at Dayara Bugyal and hike the snow-covered routes to make the most of your winter experience at Dayara Bugyal. Moreover, you will enjoy snowfall fights and photography here.
7. Khirsu
Khirsu, at an elevation of 1700 m, is a hidden gem to visit during snowfall in Uttarakhand. If you want to catch some moments of tranquility near the hotspot of Dehradun, Khirsu will be your go-to destination.
For travelers looking for an immersive experience, Khirsu awaits with birdwatching and nature walk opportunities. The deodars, pine, and oak trees will greet you by the pathways.
Further, you will fall in love with its apple orchards and the views of the Himalayan Mountains from here. The mountains visible from Khirsu are:
⁍ Nanda Devi
⁍ Panchuli
⁍ Nand Kot
⁍ Trishul
Moreover, Khirsu can offer you some of the best photographs as souvenirs. Don’t forget to capture the best moments here.
8. Auli
Auli, the “Skiing Capital of India,” is a favorite of solo travelers, couples and families. The slopes of Auli, originally built as paramilitary outposts, are now a skiing paradise.
Further, in winter, Auli has some exciting events, such as the Auli Winter Carnival and Open Championship. This signature championship program has participants and visitors from all over the world.
Celebrated as “Snow Day,” the date of the Auli Winter Carnival and Open Championship has been a great impetus for local tourism. Snow trekking in the Garhwal Himalayas and snowboarding are some other fun winter activities popular in Auli.
9. Ranikhet
Ranikhet is one of the top destinations in Uttarakhand to get a complete makeover during the snowfall time. With pleasant weather conditions, you can enjoy sightseeing at the following places.
⁍ Golf Course
⁍ Mankameshwar Temple
⁍ Tarikhet Village
⁍ Rani Jheel
Some other popular Bhalu Dam, Binsar Mahadev Temple, Chaubatia Garden and Ashiyana Park.
Know These Tips If You Want To Enjoy Snowfall In Uttarakhand To The Fullest
Here are some essential tips no one speaks about if you want to enjoy snowfall in Uttarakhand to the fullest.
⦿ Go For Layered Outfits
You have to dress in layers if you want to explore nature during snowfall in Uttarakhand. You can wear simple cotton outfits inside. However, you must layer it with a waterproof jacket and track pants.
Further, trekking shoes are a must to avoid accidents on snowy terrains.
⦿ Find An Accommodation That Is Comfortable
Not everyone visiting Uttarakhand in winter has the best physical endurance level. So, unless you are seasoned or trained, don’t go camping in the chilling winter.
Instead, choose a comfortable accommodation with basic amenities so that you wake up rejuvenated to enjoy the next day.
⦿ Work On Your Food And Hydration
Eat local and comfort food and a lot of water to survive in this extreme cold and feel energetic. You can also carry protein bars and hydrating solutions while exploring the hiking and nature walk trails.
Try Kafuli with the goodness of wheat and spinach and Mathir and til laddus. These laddus or dessert balls are perfect to keep you warm.
⦿ Plan Your Activities Well
During snowfall in Uttarakhand, you will have plenty on your platter. You have the options to ski, hike, go for a nature walk, go birding, and do many more! Further, some people enjoy the quietness of nature in winter, and they want to see the mountains, people, and wildlife preparing for the spring.
Whatever your preference is, you must set your itinerary right. You don’t want it to be rushed.
Enjoy your time in Uttarakhand and experience the magic of snowfall! Happy Winter Vacation!
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