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Saral'भ्रमण'
Saral'भ्रमण'
Saral'भ्रमण'
When winter arrives in Uttarakhand, the Himalayas turn into a wonderland of snow-laden pines, silent meadows, and crisp mountain air. For travellers chasing the thrill of snowfall or simply the calm of white landscapes, the state offers plenty of options — from easily accessible slopes near Rishikesh and Dehradun to offbeat treks and high-altitude retreats.
Here’s your guide to the top places where you’re most likely to find snow between December and March 2025–26, blended from current seasonal forecasts and recent patterns. (Tip: On the day of travel, confirm road status with SDRF/PWD.)
Altitude: ~2,800 m • Best time: Late Dec – mid-Mar
Why go: Ski slopes, panoramic Nanda Devi views, ropeway from Joshimath, and oak forests laden with snow.
Tips: Cable car timing may vary during snowfall; carry sunglasses/sunscreen – snow glare is strong. Access: Dehradun → Joshimath (270 km / 9–10 hrs).
Predicted snow windows (≤2°C + precipitation): Nov 19–20, Dec 1–2, Jan 15–25, Jan 25–27 (heavy).
Altitude: ~2,600–3,600 m • Best time: Jan – early Mar
Why go: Tungnath–Chandrashila trail gives a gentle yet rewarding snow trek. Meadows and forests turn pristine white.
Tips: Start early; weather turns quickly post-noon. Homestays in Chopta and Sari stay open with basic heating. Access: Rishikesh → Ukhimath → Chopta (210 km / 8 hrs).
Predicted windows: Nov 19–20, Dec 1–2, Jan 15–23.
Altitude: ~2,200 m • Best time: Jan – Feb
Why go: Gateway to Johar Valley and Panchachuli peaks; deep snow and fewer crowds.
Tips: Chains recommended after fresh snow near Birthi Falls. Access: Haldwani → Almora → Thal → Munsiyari (290 km / 10 hrs).
Predicted windows: Jan 18–26.
Altitude: ~2,300 m • Best time: Late Dec – early Feb
Why go: Weekend snow escape just 60 km from Dehradun; great for families.
Tips: Prefer stays with on-site parking. Access: Dehradun → Mussoorie → Dhanaulti (2.5 hrs).
Predicted windows: Jan 17–19 (flurries possible).
Altitude: ~3,400 m • Best time: Late Dec – Mar
Why go: Vast alpine meadows blanketed in snow; ideal for photography and beginner treks.
Tips: Reach Raithal base near Uttarkashi; carry poles and windproof layers. Access: Rishikesh → Uttarkashi → Raithal (6–7 hrs).
Predicted windows: Dec 1–2, Jan 15–22, Jan 25–27.
Altitude: ~1,800–2,400 m • Best time: Jan – early Feb
Why go: Pine forests, Chaukhamba views, fewer tourists; great for slow travel.
Predicted windows: Jan 17–20 (light/brief).
| Destination | Altitude (m) | Predicted Snow Days (≤2°C + precipitation) | Forecast Intensity | Ideal Window | Historic First Snow* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auli | 2,800 | Nov 19–20 • Dec 1–2 • Jan 15–25 • Jan 25–27 | Moderate → Heavy | Mid-Jan – Early Feb | Dec 10–15 |
| Chopta / Tungnath | 2,600–3,600 | Nov 19–20 • Dec 1–2 • Jan 15–23 | Moderate | Jan 10–30 | Dec 25 – Jan 5 |
| Munsiyari | 2,200 | Jan 18–26 | Heavy | Jan 15 – Feb 5 | Jan 10–15 |
| Dhanaulti / Kanatal | 2,300 | Jan 17–19 | Light | Jan 15–25 | Jan 16 (2023) |
| Chakrata | 2,100 | Jan 17–18 | Light | Jan 15–25 | Jan 18 (2022) |
| Dayara Bugyal / Harsil | 3,400 | Dec 1–2 • Jan 15–22 • Jan 25–27 | Moderate → Heavy | Mid-Jan – Early Feb | Early Dec (most years) |
| Khirsu | 1,800 | Jan 18–20 | Light | Jan 15–25 | Jan 15 (2024) |
*Historic markers are indicative summaries from recent years to guide planning, not official IMD archives.
| Destination | Stay Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Auli | Resort, Snow View, eco-resorts near cable car base |
| Chopta | Homestays in Baniya Kund / Sari Village (basic heating) |
| Dhanaulti | Cottages & glass-roof resorts with heating, on-site parking |
| Munsiyari | Guest Houses, Panchachuli-view inns |
| Dayara / Harsil | Raithal trek lodges, Resorts in Harsil |
| Kanatal / Khirsu | Boutique resorts with fireplace dining |
Uttarakhand in winter is as serene as it is adventurous. Whether it’s the easy drive to Dhanaulti, the ropeway glide over Auli, or the snowy trek to Chandrashila, each destination offers its own quiet magic. Pack your thermals, charge your camera, and chase the snow this season!