10 Best Winter Destinations of Himachal Pradesh 2025-26

Lets dive into Himachal Pradesh –

1. Manali

Manali is the most loved winter destination. The whole valley gets covered in snow from December to February. Solang Valley becomes the hub for skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding. You can enjoy snow activities near Atal Tunnel as well. Rohtang Pass, if open, looks like paradise in winter. Old Manali cafés and hot water springs of Vashisht are also must-visit.

• • Location: Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh

  • Coordinates: 32.2396° N, 77.1887° E

  • Altitude: 2,050 m

  • Google Maps: Manali Location

  • Distance: 540 km from Delhi, 250 km from Shimla

How to Reach:
Manali is well connected by road. You can take an overnight Volvo from Delhi or Chandigarh. The nearest airport is Bhuntar (50 km) and the nearest railhead is Jogindernagar (162 km).

Weather & Best Time:
Winter lasts from November to February. Temperature can drop till –5°C. December and January get heavy snowfall.

Stay & Food:
Manali has budget hostels (₹500–800), guesthouses (₹1,000–1,500), and resorts (₹2,500+). Food is easily available – from Himachali thalis to continental in Old Manali cafés.

Things to Do & Charges:

• • Skiing and snowboarding in Solang Valley – ₹500–₹1,000

  • Paragliding – ₹2,000–₹3,500

  • Snow scooter ride – ₹500 onwards

  • Vashisht hot spring entry is free

2. Shimla

The capital city of Himachal is famous for snowfall. The Ridge and Mall Road get filled with tourists during winter. Jakhu Temple offers stunning views of snow peaks. Nearby Kufri is popular for skiing and horse riding in snow. Mashobra and Naldehra are also good spots near Shimla for peaceful winter holidays.

• • Location: Capital city of Himachal Pradesh

  • Coordinates: 31.1048° N, 77.1734° E

  • Altitude: 2,200 m

  • Google Maps: Shimla Location

  • Distance: 350 km from Delhi, 115 km from Chandigarh

How to Reach:
By road from Delhi/Chandigarh. Kalka–Shimla toy train is very famous. The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti (20 km).

Weather & Best Time:
December–January gets snowfall. Temperature goes between –2°C to 8°C.

Stay & Food:
Shimla has budget rooms from ₹800 onwards. Mid-range hotels are ₹1,500–3,000. Mall Road cafés serve Maggi, siddu, and momos. Local Himachali dishes like madra are must try.

Activities & Charges:

• • Kufri skiing – ₹500–₹1,000

  • Horse ride – ₹300–₹600

  • Ice skating at Shimla rink – ₹100–₹300

3. Kinnaur (Kalpa & Sangla)

Kinnaur is also called the “Land of Gods.” In winter, places like Sangla and Kalpa become magical. From Kalpa, you can see the mighty Kinner Kailash peak covered in snow. Apple orchards look beautiful in white surroundings. Kinnaur is less crowded, so you can enjoy a peaceful time here.

• • Coordinates: 31.5361° N, 78.2752° E

  • Altitude: Kalpa – 2,960 m

  • Google Maps: Kinnaur Location

  • Distance: 600 km from Delhi, 240 km from Shimla

How to Reach:
Nearest rail is Shimla, then 240 km road journey. Nearest airport is Shimla. Roads remain open but sometimes blocked due to snow.

Weather & Best Time:
December–February is freezing cold. Temperature –5°C to 5°C.

Stay & Food:
Kalpa has homestays (₹800–1,200) and hotels (₹1,500+). Sangla also has wooden guesthouses. Food is basic – rajma, rice, siddu, and thukpa.

What to Do:

• • View of Kinner Kailash peak from Kalpa

  • Sangla Valley exploration

  • Chitkul visit from Sangla

4. Spiti Valley

Spiti is not for everyone, but if you love adventure, winter here is unforgettable. The valley turns into a cold desert with snow all around. Villages like Kibber, Kaza, and Tabo look otherworldly. Winter is also the best time to spot the rare snow leopard. Roads may close, so travel with proper preparation.

• • Coordinates: 32.2464° N, 78.0178° E

  • Altitude: 3,800 m (Kaza town)

  • Google Maps: Kaza Location

  • Distance: 730 km from Delhi, 200 km from Manali (via Atal Tunnel, closed in winter sometimes)

How to Reach:
Best way in winter is via Shimla–Kinnaur road. Manali route is closed.

Weather & Best Time:
Spiti is extremely cold in winter. –20°C to –5°C. November to March is challenging but adventurous.

Stay & Food:
Kaza has guesthouses (₹1,000–1,500). Villages have homestays around ₹700–1,000. Food is mostly Tibetan style – thukpa, momos, butter tea.

Activities:

• • Snow leopard spotting treks (₹25,000+ for 6–7 days)

  • Visit Key Monastery, Kibber, Tabo

  • Frozen Spiti river walks

If you are planning to visit Kinnaur, Spiti etc, and confused which one to visit first, read this article- Kinnaur vs Spiti – Which is Better for First Trip?

5. Dalhousie & Khajjiar

Dalhousie is a quiet and charming hill station. Its pine forests, colonial buildings, and wide views of the snow-covered Dhauladhar ranges make it a perfect winter retreat. Just 20 km away is Khajjiar, often called the “Mini Switzerland of India.” Covered in snow, it looks like a fairy tale place.

• • Coordinates: 32.5333° N, 75.9833° E

  • Altitude: Dalhousie – 1,970 m, Khajjiar – 2,000 m

  • Google Maps: Dalhousie Location

  • Distance: 560 km from Delhi, 315 km from Chandigarh

How to Reach:
Nearest railhead is Pathankot (80 km). Dalhousie is well connected by road.

Weather & Best Time:
Temperature –2°C to 8°C. Snowfall expected in Jan–Feb.

Stay & Food:
Guesthouses start from ₹1,000. Resorts go ₹3,000+. Food is mostly North Indian. Siddu and madra are local specialties.

What to Do:

• • Visit Khajjiar, also called “Mini Switzerland”

  • Local trekking trails

  • St. John’s Church and colonial walks

6. Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj

Dharamshala is home to the Dalai Lama. In winter, the Dhauladhar mountains around it shine in snow. McLeod Ganj has monasteries, Tibetan culture, and many cafés. The short trek to Triund is famous in summer, but in winter it turns into a snow trek. Carry good shoes and gear if you plan to trek.

• • Coordinates: 32.2190° N, 76.3234° E

  • Altitude: 1,457 m (Dharamshala), 2,082 m (McLeod Ganj)

  • Google Maps: McLeod Ganj Location

  • Distance: 480 km from Delhi, 240 km from Chandigarh

How to Reach:
Gaggal Airport (15 km) is nearest. Pathankot railhead (90 km) is another option.

Weather & Best Time:
0°C to 10°C in winter. Snow possible in Jan.

Stay & Food:
Budget guesthouses ₹600–1,000. Hotels ₹1,500–2,500. Tibetan food like momos, thukpa, and butter tea are popular.

Things to Do:

• • Triund winter trek (with guide – ₹1,500–2,000)

  • Visit monasteries

  • Bhagsunag waterfall and temple

7. Kasol & Parvati Valley

Kasol is popular among youngsters, but in winter it becomes calm and silent. The Parvati river flows alongside snow-covered banks. You can explore Tosh, Malana, or even go till Kheerganga if the route is open. Hot springs at Kheerganga are a blessing in cold weather.

• • Coordinates: 32.0100° N, 77.3160° E

  • Altitude: 1,580 m

  • Google Maps: Kasol Location

  • Distance: 520 km from Delhi, 75 km from Kullu

How to Reach:
Nearest rail is Jogindernagar (145 km). Nearest airport Bhuntar (31 km). Well connected by bus.

Weather & Best Time:
Winter temperature –5°C to 8°C.

Stay & Food:
Hostels from ₹500. Homestays ₹800–1,200. Food is Israeli, Himachali, and Indian.

Things to Do:

• • Trek to Tosh and Malana (free or with guide ₹1,000/day)

  • Kheerganga hot springs trek

  • Café hopping in Kasol

8. Kullu

Often shadowed by Manali, Kullu has its own charm in winter. The valley is filled with apple orchards and snowy mountains. Villages here offer homestays, where you can enjoy local food and culture. Rafting in Beas River is possible till December. After that, you can enjoy peaceful village walks.

• • Coordinates: 31.9578° N, 77.1095° E

  • Altitude: 1,278 m

  • Google Maps: Kullu Location

  • Distance: 500 km from Delhi, 210 km from Shimla

How to Reach:
Nearest airport Bhuntar (10 km). Road connectivity is good.

Weather & Best Time:
Temperature –3°C to 10°C. Snowfall in January.

If you want to explore Kullu Dessehra, Click here.

Stay & Food:
Budget hotels ₹700–1,000. Resorts ₹2,000+. Food is mainly Himachali. Apple wine is also popular.

Activities:

• • Rafting in Beas River till December (₹1,000–1,500)

  • Village walks and homestays

  • Temple visits (Raghunath temple, Bijli Mahadev)

9. Chitkul

Chitkul is the last village of India on the Indo-Tibet border. In winter, it gets heavy snowfall. Wooden houses, Baspa river, and snow-filled meadows create postcard views. Roads may get blocked sometimes, but if you reach here, the beauty is unmatched.

• • Coordinates: 31.3524° N, 78.4362° E

  • Altitude: 3,450 m

  • Google Maps: Chitkul Location

  • Distance: 620 km from Delhi, 250 km from Shimla

How to Reach:
Reach via Shimla–Rampur–Sangla road. Roads may close in peak winter.

Weather & Best Time:
Temperature –10°C to 3°C in winter. Snowfall is heavy in Jan–Feb.

Stay & Food:
Few wooden homestays (₹800–1,200). Food is basic – rajma, rice, dal, and noodles.

What to Do:

• • Walk along Baspa river

  • Snow trekking in valley

  • Wooden architecture of village

10. Narkanda

Narkanda is a small but beautiful hill station. It is one of the best skiing destinations in Himachal. Surrounded by apple orchards, it is less crowded than Shimla. The Hatu Peak trek becomes more thrilling in snow. If you want a calm winter holiday, Narkanda is the right choice.

• • Coordinates: 31.2596° N, 77.4536° E

  • Altitude: 2,708 m

  • Google Maps: Narkanda Location

  • Distance: 420 km from Delhi, 65 km from Shimla

How to Reach:
Easily accessible by road from Shimla. Nearest airport is Shimla (90 km).

Weather & Best Time:
–6°C to 5°C in winter. Heavy snowfall in Jan.

Stay & Food:
Hotels ₹1,000–1,500. Resorts ₹2,500+. Food is mostly North Indian and Himachali.

Activities & Charges:

• • Skiing – ₹800–1,500

  • Trek to Hatu Peak

  • Apple orchard walks

Suggested Itinerary 

Himachal in winter is best enjoyed when you combine two destinations in one trip. A mix of Shimla and Narkanda gives you city charm with peaceful snowy hills, while Manali with Kasol offers adventure sports and Parvati Valley’s café culture. Dalhousie with Dharamshala brings snow views and Tibetan monasteries, and Kalpa with Chitkul lets you explore apple orchards along with India’s last village covered in snow. For true explorers, Spiti with Kinnaur is the ultimate frozen adventure. If you are visiting for the first time, Shimla with Manali is the classic choice, while Kasol with Dharamshala balances youthful vibes with spiritual calm. Each pair gives a different flavour of Himachal’s winter magic.

1. Shimla + Narkanda (4–5 Days)

Perfect for family or short winter vacation.

• • Day 1: Reach Shimla, explore Mall Road, Ridge, Jakhu Temple.

  • Day 2: Visit Kufri, enjoy skiing/horse ride. Night stay Shimla.

  • Day 3: Drive to Narkanda (65 km). On way see apple orchards.

  • Day 4: Skiing at Narkanda, trek to Hatu Peak.

  • Day 5: Return via Shimla.

👉 Combination of city charm (Shimla) + peaceful snow experience (Narkanda).

2. Manali + Kasol/Parvati Valley (6–7 Days)

Good for youngsters and adventure lovers.

• • Day 1: Reach Manali. Local sightseeing (Hadimba temple, Mall road).

  • Day 2: Solang Valley for skiing and paragliding. Night stay Manali.

  • Day 3: Atal Tunnel – Sissu snow points. Return Manali.

  • Day 4: Drive to Kasol (75 km). Evening café hopping.

  • Day 5: Trek to Tosh/Malana.

  • Day 6: Kheerganga trek or hot springs.

  • Day 7: Return journey.

👉 Adventure + café culture + snow valley.

3. Dalhousie + Dharamshala/McLeod Ganj (6–7 Days)

Great for culture, monasteries, and snow views.

• • Day 1: Reach Dalhousie, relax.

  • Day 2: Visit Khajjiar (Mini Switzerland).

  • Day 3: Explore local Dalhousie spots.

  • Day 4: Drive to Dharamshala (120 km).

  • Day 5: Explore Dharamshala, McLeod Ganj, monasteries.

  • Day 6: Triund winter trek or Bhagsunag temple.

  • Day 7: Return journey.

👉 Mix of snow retreat (Dalhousie) + Tibetan culture (Dharamshala).

4. Kinnaur (Kalpa) + Chitkul (6 Days)

Ideal for peace and raw Himalayan feel.

• • Day 1: Reach Shimla. Stay overnight.

  • Day 2: Drive Shimla to Kalpa (240 km). Night in Kalpa.

  • Day 3: Explore Kalpa, apple orchards, Kinner Kailash view.

  • Day 4: Drive to Sangla and Chitkul (90 km).

  • Day 5: Explore Chitkul village and Baspa river. Stay at homestay.

  • Day 6: Return via Shimla.

👉 Offbeat, peaceful villages + stunning Himalayan views.

5. Spiti Valley (Kaza) + Kinnaur (Kalpa/Sangla) (9–10 Days)

Adventure & extreme winter travel.

• • Day 1–2: Reach Shimla, then Narkanda stay.

  • Day 3: Drive to Kalpa.

  • Day 4: Kalpa sightseeing.

  • Day 5: Drive to Nako and Tabo (entering Spiti).

  • Day 6–7: Explore Kaza, Key Monastery, Kibber, Langza.

  • Day 8: Optional snow leopard spotting trek.

  • Day 9: Return via Kalpa.

  • Day 10: Reach Shimla.

👉 Only for experienced travelers. Snow-bound but magical.

6. Shimla + Manali (7 Days)

For first-time Himachal visitors.

• • Day 1: Shimla local.

  • Day 2: Kufri trip.

  • Day 3: Drive Shimla–Manali (250 km).

  • Day 4: Manali sightseeing.

  • Day 5: Solang Valley adventure sports.

  • Day 6: Atal Tunnel, Sissu valley.

  • Day 7: Return.

👉 Classic Himachal combo – heritage + adventure.

7. Kasol + Dharamshala (7 Days)

For backpackers & café culture.

• • Day 1–3: Stay in Kasol, do Tosh/Malana/Kheerganga.

  • Day 4: Travel Kasol to Dharamshala.

  • Day 5–6: McLeod Ganj, monasteries, Triund trek.

  • Day 7: Return.

👉 Mix of Parvati valley fun + Tibetan culture.

💡 Budget Pointers for All Combos

• • Stay in budget hostels/homestays: ₹600–1,200/day

  • Mid-range hotels: ₹1,500–3,000/day

  • Food: ₹300–500/day (budget), ₹800–1,500/day (cafés & restaurants)

  • Local buses are cheapest. Cabs charge ₹2,000–4,000 per day depending on route.

Quick Travel Tips for Winter in Himachal Pradesh

• • Check weather forecast before you travel, especially in December–January.

  • Carry cash, as ATMs may not work in remote places like Chitkul or Spiti.

  • Start early in the morning for long drives, as evenings get foggy and roads may freeze.

  • Layer your clothes instead of one heavy jacket, it keeps you warmer.

  • Keep extra buffer days in your plan in case roads get blocked by snow.

  • Drink plenty of water, cold weather causes dehydration too.

  • Try local Himachali food like siddu, thukpa, and trout fish.

  • Respect local culture in monasteries and villages.

  • Book hotels in advance, as winter season attracts many tourists in popular places.

  • Hire local guides for treks or adventure sports for safety.

Must-Try Winter Foods in Himachal Pradesh

• • Siddu – A steamed wheat bread stuffed with walnut paste or poppy seeds, best enjoyed with ghee. Popular in Kinnaur and Shimla.

  • Madra – A creamy chickpea curry cooked in curd and ghee, usually part of Himachali dham feast.

  • Thukpa & Momos – Hot Tibetan noodle soup and steamed momos are perfect to beat the cold in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj.

  • Aktori – A pancake-like dish made from buckwheat, enjoyed mostly in Lahaul–Spiti and Kinnaur.

  • Bhey – A tasty preparation of lotus stem with spices, common in Kangra valley.

  • Trout Fish – Freshwater fish cooked with local spices, famous in Kullu and Manali.

  • Chha Gosht – A mutton dish slow-cooked with gram flour and yoghurt, served in colder regions.

  • Butter Tea (Po Cha) – Tibetan-style salty tea with yak butter, very popular in Spiti and Dharamshala during winters.

  • Mittha – A sweet dish made with rice, raisins, and dry fruits, mostly served during festivals.

👉 These dishes are not just food, they are a part of Himachal’s culture. Trying them in winter with a warm hearth around you makes the experience even more memorable.

FAQs about Winter Travel in Himachal Pradesh

Q1. Which is the best winter destination in Himachal for first-time visitors?
Shimla and Manali are the best choices for beginners. Both are easy to reach, have good hotels, and offer snow activities.

Q2. Is it safe to travel to Himachal in winter?
Yes, it is safe. But some high passes like Rohtang and Kunzum remain closed due to heavy snow. Roads may get slippery, so always check weather updates before traveling.

Q3. What should I pack for a winter trip to Himachal?
Carry heavy woollens, thermals, waterproof jackets, gloves, mufflers, snow boots, and sunglasses. Keep medicines and moisturiser handy as well.

Q4. What is the budget for a 5–7 day winter trip?

• • • Budget trip: ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 per person

    • Mid-range trip: ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 per person

    • Luxury trip: ₹30,000+ per person

Q5. Can I see snowfall in Himachal during December–January?
Yes, snowfall is common in Manali, Shimla (Kufri), Dalhousie, Narkanda, and parts of Kinnaur during December and January.

Q6. Which winter destinations are best for adventure sports?
Solang Valley (Manali), Kufri (Shimla), and Narkanda are popular for skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding.

Q7. Are homestays available in winter?
Yes, homestays are open in places like Kasol, Kalpa, Chitkul, and Spiti. They are warm, budget-friendly, and give you a taste of Himachali culture.

Q8. Is Spiti Valley open in winter?
Yes, Spiti is open via Shimla–Kaza route, but it is challenging. Roads may be snowbound, so only experienced travelers should plan.

Q9. What are the best travel options in Himachal during winter?
Himachal Roadways buses run to most towns. For comfort, you can book a taxi (₹2,000–₹4,000/day). Local shared cabs are also available in valleys like Kinnaur and Spiti.

Q10. Which is the most offbeat winter destination in Himachal?
Chitkul (India’s last village) and Kalpa in Kinnaur are less crowded and look magical in winter.

Conclusion

Winter in Himachal Pradesh is not just about snow, it is about living the true mountain life. From the lively streets of Shimla and Manali to the peaceful charm of Kalpa, Chitkul, and Spiti, every place offers a different story. You can enjoy adventure sports, sip butter tea in a monastery, walk in apple orchards, or simply sit by a bonfire under the stars. The food, culture, and warm hospitality of locals make the trip even more special. Whether you are looking for family holidays, backpacking adventures, or offbeat explorations, Himachal has a winter destination for everyone. Pack your warm clothes, keep some buffer days, and head to the Himalayas — because winters here are pure magic.

– By Mohit Bangari