Snow has a special talent for turning grown adults into wide-eyed children and ordinary towns into living postcards. If you are searching for the best snow destinations in India for Christmas & New Year, get ready to fall in love with Winter again. As December rolls in with jingling carols and countdown clocks, India quietly unveils its cold-weather magic.
From breathtaking snow-capped meadows in Gulmarg to incredible midnight mass at Christ Church in Shimla, these destinations offer romance, adrenaline, and soul-soothing silence in equal measure. Whether you dream of a dreamy white Christmas, a snow-drenched New Year celebration, or a spontaneous escape from crowded cities, India’s snowy gems deliver everything you want.
Whether you are looking for some of the best budget snow places in India for Christmas holidays or looking to enjoy a vibrant New Party, our India trip packages can make your dream come true. So pack your warmest jacket, leave room for wonder, and let the mountains rewrite how your year ends and begins.
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16 Best Snow Destinations In India For Christmas & New Year
From electric parties in Kasol to a laid-back atmosphere in Munsiyari, these are best places to see snowfall in India during Christmas turn into something you definitely cannot miss. Here is the list of the best places to visit during the holiday season.
1. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
Transforming into a magical winter kingdom in December and January, Gulmarg becomes one of the most enchanting places to enjoy white Christmas in India. As these months unfold, the places to visit in Gulmarg resemble a painter's canvas, where powdery white snow drapes tall pine trees. The crisp festive air, the sight of people riding Asia’s highest gondola and the thrill of winter sports create a perfect blend of warmth and wonder.
On Christmas, the churches come alive with vibrant celebrations and cultural performances, while New Year's Eve brings fireworks that light up the white expanse like fleeting constellations. From twinkling fairy lights to festive feasts, you can experience a blend of festive sparkle and captivating alpine beauty during the holiday season.
Top Places To Visit: Apharwat Peak, St. Mary’s Church, Kongdoori Phase 1
Top Activities: Skiing & Snowboarding, Snowmobile Rides, Snow Festivals & Local Celebrations, Gulmarg Gondola
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station
Average Temperature: 3°C to -10°C
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
One of the most incredible snow destinations in India for December holidays, Manali transforms into a breathtaking spectacle covered in a thick blanket of snow. Snow-capped peaks, frost-kissed pine forests, and serene valleys create a scene straight out of a fairy tale. The crisp mountain air, coupled with adventurous activities like skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding, adds a thrilling touch to the festive charm.
During Christmas, the town sparkles with dazzling lights, cheerful celebrations and cultural events. New Year’s Eve brings in a display of colourful fireworks, dance parties and entertainment options. A Christmas celebration and New Year party in Manali is something you cannot miss this year.
Top Places To Visit: Hidimba Devi Temple, Manali Mall Road, Vashisht Hot Springs, Gulaba Snow Point
Things To Do: Skiing & Snowboarding, Snowmobiling & Sledding, Trekking & Snow Walks
Nearest Airport: Kullu–Manali Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot Railway Station
Average Temperature: 3°C to -6°C
3. Solang Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Located just a short drive from Manali, Solang Valley Manali is one of the best places to see snowfall in India during Christmas. The valley transforms into a winter wonderland blanketed in pristine snow, perfect for festive celebrations. This playground for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing, suddenly takes a festive turn as soon as mid-December hits.
During Christmas and New Year, the valley sparkles with dangling lights, lively parties and cultural parties. Fireworks, festive feasts and fun celebrations make the holiday season even more special and memorable.
Top Places To Visit: Ski Slopes, Gondola, Snowfields, Nearby Forest Trails
Things To Do: Skiing & Snowboarding, Paragliding (Weather Dependent), Snowmobiling & Snow Scooters, Festive Events
Nearest Airport: Kullu–Manali Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot Railway Station
Average Temperature: 5°C to -4°C
One of the best snow resorts in India for Christmas holidays, Auli is any adventure seeker and snow lover’s dream come true. This white paradise captures the true essence of the festive season with unmatched parties, celebrations and entertainment. The hill station is known for being a haven for skiing enthusiasts, making it a perfect destination for adventure seekers on their holiday.
During the Christmas season, the town echoes with music and local celebrations, you definitely cannot miss. Being one of the best new year celebration places in India, Auli offers a cosy celebration with bonfires, folk performances and decorations.
Top Places To Visit: Auli Ski Slopes, Auli Ropeway, Gorson Bugyal, Auli Artificial Lake, Trishul Viewpoint
Things To Do: Skiing & Snowboarding, Snowmobiling, Sledging, Ropeway Ride, Festive Events, Bonfires, Local Cuisine
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh or Haridwar Railway Station
Average Temperature: 5°C to -12°C
5. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
One of the most jaw-dropping hill stations to celebrate Christmas in India, Shimla becomes a snowy paradise during the Christmas and New Year season. With snow-dusted streets, colonial buildings and twinkling lights, the celebrations here feel extra special and memorable. One of the major highlights of Shimla during the festive season is the iconic Christ Church, which comes alive with midnight mass, soulful carol singing and colourful decorations.
Other than that, the Mall Road buzzes with handmade crafts, woollens and seasonal treats. Savour hot chocolate and baked goodies while soaking in some breathtaking views of snow-capped landscapes from a cafe. New Year’s Eve celebrations call for folk performances, vibrant parties and bonfire nights.
Top Places To Visit: The Ridge, Mall Road, Christ Church, Jakhoo Temple & Hill, Lakkar Bazaar
Things To Do: Shopping on Mall Road, Christmas Eve Celebration, Skiing, snowboarding, snowball fights, snow-covered walks, enjoy bonfires, live music, and countdown parties
Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka railway station
Average Temperature: 8°C to -2°C
6. Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
One of the most picturesque snow places in India for Christmas and New Year, Srinagar turns into a tranquil winter retreat during winters. From floating on the frozen Dal Lake to breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, the places to visit in Srinagar during this season feel different. During this time, houseboats and lakeside gardens are adorned with subtle lights.
Local markets bustle with Kashmiri handicrafts, warm pashmina shawls and traditional winter treats like kahwa. Some resorts and hotels host intimate parties with local cuisine and cultural performances, while adventurous souls might welcome the new year skiing in the nearby slopes of Gulmarg or trekking in snow-covered meadows.
Top Places To Visit: Dal Lake & Nigeen Lake, Shankaracharya Temple, Mughal Gardens
Things To Do: Houseboat stay, skiing, snowboarding, sledging, snowball fights, bonfires, music, festive parties, shopping
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station
Average Temperature: 7°C to -2°C
7. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
One of the most incredible places to enjoy white Christmas in India, Tawang becomes a serene winter paradise during December and January. The town’s picturesque landscapes, dotted with frozen streams and pine forests, are blanketed in pristine snow, creating a magical backdrop for festive celebrations. Christmas in Tawang is celebrated with a unique blend of spirituality and local tradition; Tawang Monastery, one of the largest in India, and the town’s churches come alive with colourful decorations.
As New Year approaches, one of the best things to know about Tawang is it offers a tranquil yet memorable celebration. Instead of loud fireworks, the town focuses on community gatherings, traditional dances, and bonfires under the starry Himalayan sky.
Top Places To Visit: Tawang Monastery, Giant Buddha Statue, Tawang War Memorial, Urgelling Monastery
Things To Do: Attend evening prayers, snow walks, try local cuisines, Evening Light & Sound Show at War Memorial, bonfires, cultural dance, music night
Nearest Airport: Guwahati Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station
Average Temperature: 5°C to -10°C
8. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
One of the most romantic places to celebrate Christmas in snow, Munsiyari becomes an enchanting winter haven during December and January. Christmas in Munsiyari is celebrated quietly but warmly; local churches host small gatherings, carol singing, and heartfelt community meals. You can join these intimate celebrations or retreat to cozy homestays where families serve traditional Kumaoni dishes like bhatt ki churkani, chutney made of timur, and steaming cups of herbal tea.
Munsiyari offers a celebration unlike the loud festivities of bigger hill stations. Here, the focus is on nature, calm, and meaningful moments. You can enjoy small bonfires, local folk music performances, and storytelling sessions about the region’s mountain traditions.
Top Places To Visit: Khalia Top, Thamri Kund, Maheshwar Kund, Birthi Falls, Munsiyari Market, Darkot Village
Things To Do: Best snow-clad peak views, snowball fights, mini snowmen, bonfires, local Kumaoni food, rooftop sunrise views, peaceful New Year gatherings
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam
Average Temperature: 15°C to -5°C
Lachung transforms into a magical winter wonderland during Christmas and New Year, making it the best snow destination in India for celebrating Christmas and New Year. Christmas in Sikkim is quietly magical, where you can experience cozy evenings, hearty local feasts, and snowflakes falling like blessings from the sky in Lachung. As the year turns, the village welcomes the New Year not with fireworks, but with serenity, starlit skies, and the soft crunch of snow underfoot.
Top Places To Visit: Lachung Village, Lachung Monastery, Bhim Nala Waterfall,
Things To Do: Bonfire evenings, snow walks, enjoy hot local, watch New Year sunrise, experience Losoong Festival
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri
Average Temperature: 4°C to -9°C
Chopta feels like a festive dream come alive during Christmas and New Year, earning its title as the “Mini Switzerland of India.” One of the most incredible Christmas and New Year celebration in snowy places India, the festive season here is less about noise and more about wonder; snowflakes drift from the sky, mornings open to golden sunrises over white meadows, and evenings glow with warmth. As the New Year approaches, the region exudes a sense of renewal, where all the places to visit in Chopta like a fresh beginning.
Top Places To Visit: Chopta Meadows, Dugalbitta, Makkumath Village
Things To Do: Bonfire nights, snow walks, snow play, savour hot Garhwali food, group games & storytelling
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar Railway Station
Average Temperature: 10°C to -15°C
11. Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir
Pahalgam turns into a festive winter paradise during Christmas and New Year, offering one of India’s most enchanting snow experiences. One of the most budget snow places in India for Christmas holidays, the festive mood here is shaped by glowing fireplaces, steaming kahwa, and long walks beside the frozen Lidder River. Christmas carries a soft charm, where snowfall becomes the décor and silence feels sacred. As the New Year approaches, Pahalgam invites travelers to slow down, reflect, and welcome fresh beginnings amid untouched white expanses.
Top Places To Visit: Lidder River, Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Mamleshwar Temple
Things To Do: Bonfire & music nights, snow walks, snow play, enjoy Kashmiri winter food
Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Anantnag Railway Station
Average Temperature: 8°C to -10°C
12. Sonmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
As Christmas and New Year arrive, this golden meadow of Kashmir trades its summer hues for vast, untouched whites, creating a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. Standing at the top of the list of the most enchanting snow places in India for Christmas and New Year, Sonamarg offers a rare kind of celebration rooted in stillness and awe.
Christmas mornings arrive crisp and luminous, while evenings draw people closer around warmth and shared meals. As New Year’s Eve approaches, the air buzzes with excitement, bonfires crackle, voices rise in cheer, and the mountains stand witness to joyful countdowns under star-lit skies. Experiencing the holiday season is one of the best things to do in Sonmarg.
Top Places To Visit: Sonmarg Meadow, Sindh River banks, Thajiwas Glacier (lower stretches)
Things To Do: Snow walks & snow play, New Year morning snow strolls, bonfire evenings
Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Anantnag Railway Station
Average Temperature: 5°C to -15°
13. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Mussoorie during Christmas and New Year feels like a mountain town dressed up for a grand holiday celebration. As winter sets in, this one of the best snow destinations in India for December holidays sparkles with twinkling lights, shop windows brim with holiday cheer and the crisp air carries laughter and music.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, Mussoorie comes alive with celebrations, bonfires, and cheerful countdowns overlooking misty valleys. Fireworks light up the mountain skies, and the town buzzes with energy as you welcome fresh beginnings together.
Top Places To Visit: Mall Road, Gun Hill, Camel’s Back, Lal Tibba, Company Garden, Kempty Falls, Christ Church
Things To Do: Midnight Christmas Mass, New Year’s Eve parties, festive shopping, bonfire evenings, snow watching & snow play, café hopping
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station
Average Temperature: 12°C to -3°
14. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Kasol is one of the most romantic places to celebrate Christmas in snow. As winter rolls in, you will witness riverside cafés glow with fairy lights, music spills into the cold night air, and the entire village hums with festive energy. Christmas here is cozy yet lively; warm bonfires, shared meals, laughter with fellow travellers and long evenings filled with stories. One of the best things you should experience here is a Kasol New Year party where everything turns electric and celebrations stretch late into the night, where you can dance with your friends under starry skies.
Top Places To Visit: Kasol Riverside, Manikaran Sahib, Chalal Village, Katagla & Grahan road viewpoints
Things To Do: Christmas & New Year parties, bonfire nights, riverside walks, café hopping, New Year’s Eve countdown parties,
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Chandigarh Railway Station
Average Temperature: 10°C to -5°
15. Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand
One of the best snow resorts in India for Christmas holidays, Mukteshwar glows with soft lights, crackling fireplaces, and the crisp air makes every gathering feel special. Christmas mornings are peaceful and refreshing, with clear skies opening up to stunning views of snow-clad Himalayan peaks. As the New Year approaches, you will experience slow and meaningful celebrations with bonfire evenings and shared meals.
Top Places To Visit: Mukteshwar Temple, Chauli Ki Jali, Mukteshwar Inspection Bungalow, Peora Village
Things To Do: Celebrate a peaceful mountain Christmas, bonfire evenings, stargazing, Enjoy home-style Kumaoni food
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station
Average Temperature: 15°C to -3°
Also Read: Best Places To Celebrate New Year in Uttarakhand in 2026
16. Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh
One of the best snow destination in India for celebrating Christmas and New Year, Narkanda feels like a cheerful mountain festival wrapped in fresh Himalayan snow. Ski slopes near Hatu Peak turn into playful winter playgrounds, adding an adventurous spirit to your celebrations. As New Year’s Eve arrives, the mood shifts into full celebration mode, with music, cheers, and midnight moments shared under starry, snow-filled skies.
Top Places To Visit: Narkanda Town & Market, Hatu Peak, Hatu Mata Temple, Apple orchards, Stokes Farm
Things To Do: Snow play & snowball fun, bonfire nights, New Year’s Eve celebration with music, skiing, enjoy hot Himachali food & chai
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport/Shimla Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station
Average Temperature: -2°C to -10°
