7 magical snowy destinations in India you can fly to this winter

From Gulmarg to Leh, discover India’s snow-covered escapes where adventure and serenity meet.

There’s something undeniably enchanting about winter in India. The air turns crisp, the mountains are blanketed in sparkling snow, and every winding road seems to lead into a postcard-perfect scene. If you’ve been dreaming of a snowy escape but don’t want to endure long road trips, India offers a handful of destinations you can reach by flight, each promising its own winter magic.

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1. Gulmarg, Kashmir – The Crown Jewel of Snow

Imagine standing on a pristine slope with powdery snow beneath your boots and the majestic Himalayas stretching endlessly around you. That’s Gulmarg in winter. Famous for its ski slopes and the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the world’s highest cable cars, this “Meadow of Flowers” transforms into a snowy playground. Fly to Srinagar, soak in the mountain air, and let the adventure begin.

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2. Auli, Uttarakhand – Skiers’ Paradise

Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, Auli is a snowy wonderland that feels straight out of a movie. With panoramic views of peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul, Auli is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and even cosying up in a mountain hut with hot cocoa. A flight to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport gets you close to this Himalayan gem where the snow seems endless.

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3. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – Winter Wonderland with a Heartbeat

Manali’s charm in winter is irresistible. From the bustling streets to the Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass, the region becomes a hub for skiing, sledding, and snow adventures. Fly into Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar) and let the snow-dusted peaks welcome you into their serene embrace.

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4. Lachung & Zero Point, Sikkim – Snow in Untouched Himalayas

Far from the crowds, Sikkim’s northern reaches offer untouched snow landscapes and quaint mountain villages. Lachung and Zero Point are where serenity meets the thrill of winter, with snow-capped peaks reflecting in quiet streams. Fly to Bagdogra Airport, and prepare for a scenic drive into this hidden winter paradise.

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5. Leh, Ladakh – The Snow-Covered Cold Desert

For those who crave a snow adventure like no other, Leh is surreal. Winter here paints the stark desert mountains in glistening white, frozen rivers invite daring treks like the Chadar Trek, and the silence of the high-altitude landscape is hypnotic. Fly straight into Leh Airport and step into a winter wonderland unlike any other.

6. Binsar, Uttarakhand – Snowy Solitude

If peace and quiet are on your list, Binsar is a snow-covered haven away from the tourist throngs. Nestled in the Kumaon hills, the region offers serene forests, Himalayan vistas, and cosy stays that make you want to linger. The nearest airport is Pantnagar, followed by a scenic drive into this winter retreat.

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7. Kufri, Himachal Pradesh – Family-Friendly Snow Adventures

Just a short drive from Shimla, Kufri is the go-to winter playground for families and adventure seekers alike. Snow slides, horse rides, and Himalayan panoramas make it perfect for a day trip or a weekend escape. Fly into Shimla Airport, and you’re ready to experience snow in its most playful form.

Winter in India is waiting—whether you’re carving ski slopes in Auli, chasing the Northern Lights in Leh, or sipping tea in a cosy Binsar cabin, these destinations prove that snow isn’t just a landscape—it’s an experience. And the best part? You can reach them by plane, leaving long, tiring journeys behind.