❄️ Snow in Himachal Pradesh — January 2026 Update

Where Can We See Snow in Himachal Pradesh Right Now?

Shinkula Pass covered with snow in Lahaul Spiti, high altitude mountain road in Himachal Pradesh
Snow-covered Shinkula Pass, the breathtaking high-altitude gateway between Lahaul Valley and Zanskar.

Himachal Pradesh in winter feels like a dream. Snow-covered mountains, silent pine forests, frozen rivers, and cozy hill towns — this is the season when Himachal shows its most magical side. Every year, thousands of travelers wait eagerly for snowfall, and January is one of the best months to experience it.

If you are planning a winter trip and wondering where you can see snow in Himachal right now, this guide will help you choose the perfect destination.


Why January Is Perfect for Snow in Himachal

January is peak winter in Himachal Pradesh. During this time, western disturbances bring snowfall to many mountain regions. Higher altitude areas receive heavy snow, while mid-hill destinations get light to moderate snowfall.

Not every town gets snow at the same time. Usually, places above 2,000 meters altitude receive the best snowfall. That is why choosing the right location is very important.


1. Solang Valley & Rohtang Area – Snow Near Manali

Manali is the most popular winter destination in Himachal. Even if Manali town does not always receive heavy snow, the nearby high-altitude areas never disappoint.

Best snow spots near Manali:

  • Solang Valley
  • Rohtang Pass
  • Gulaba
  • Marhi

These places remain covered with snow throughout winter. Solang Valley becomes a winter playground where tourists enjoy:

  • Snow scooter rides
  • Skiing
  • Snowboarding
  • Playing in fresh snow

Snow mountains, white roads, and frozen trees make this region look like a postcard.


2. Lahaul Valley – Real Himalayan Winter Experience

Family trip at Solang Valley Manali with snow mountains Tourists enjoying Atal Tunnel and Sissu views in Manali Manali family holiday near Hidimba Temple forest
Discover the top family travel destinations in India including Manali, Shimla, Ladakh and Spiti. Perfect for holidays with kids, nature trips and scenic adventures.

Lahaul Valley is one of the coldest and most beautiful winter regions of Himachal. Places like Sissu, Koksar, Keylong, and Udaipur are already experiencing regular snowfall.

This area is perfect for travelers who want:

  • Heavy snow landscapes
  • Less crowd
  • Pure Himalayan beauty

Mountains, rivers, and villages look completely white here. Lahaul is ideal for photographers and adventure lovers.


3. Kufri & Narkanda – Snow Close to Shimla

Shimla itself may not always get heavy snowfall, but Kufri and Narkanda, located at higher altitude, usually receive snow every winter.

Why visit Kufri and Narkanda for snow:

  • Just a few hours from Shimla
  • Easy road access
  • Safe for families and couples
  • Beautiful apple orchards covered in snow

Narkanda, in particular, offers peaceful snowy landscapes without heavy tourist crowds.


4. Kinnaur – Snowy Himalayan Villages

Kinnaur district turns into a fairy-tale land in winter. Famous villages like:

  • Kalpa
  • Sangla
  • Chitkul

receive regular snowfall during January and February.

Snow-covered wooden houses, frozen rivers, and views of Kinner Kailash peaks make this region extremely scenic. If you love calm destinations and natural beauty, Kinnaur is perfect.


5. Dalhousie & Khajjiar – Snowy Meadows

Dalhousie is another beautiful winter destination. Nearby Khajjiar, known as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” looks stunning when covered with snow.

Here you can enjoy:

  • Snow walks in pine forests
  • Horse riding in snowy meadows
  • Beautiful colonial architecture with snow roofs

This region is ideal for a romantic winter holiday.


Offbeat Snow Destinations

If you want to avoid crowds, you can also explore:

  • Shoja & Jibhi
  • Tirthan Valley
  • Pangi Valley
  • Seraj Valley

These places receive seasonal snowfall and offer peaceful winter experiences.


Important Winter Travel Tips

Traveling in snow requires proper planning:

  • Always check road conditions before starting
  • Carry warm clothes, gloves, caps, and waterproof shoes
  • Keep buffer days in case of road closures
  • Choose experienced local drivers for mountain travel

Snow makes the journey beautiful but also challenging.


Best Time to Visit for Snow

The best snow season in Himachal is:

Mid-January to February

Higher areas receive continuous snowfall during this period, while mid-hill destinations get fresh snow spells.


Final Words

Himachal Pradesh in winter is nothing less than heaven on earth. From Manali’s adventure snow to Lahaul’s silent white valleys and Kinnaur’s frozen villages, every region has its own charm.

If you dream of walking on fresh snow, watching snowfall from your hotel window, and driving through white mountain roads — this is the perfect time to visit Himachal Pradesh.

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ajayrathore1885

Ajay is the founder of Voyage de Himalaya Tour and Travel Service, a trusted travel and taxi brand known for safe, comfortable, and premium Himalayan journeys. With years of experience in the tourism and transport industry, Ajay has built a reputation for providing reliable service, transparent pricing, and memorable travel experiences across Himachal, Spiti Valley, and Ladakh, Utrakhand, Jammu&Kashmir. He believes in professionalism, honesty, and treating every traveler like a guest at home. Under Ajay’s leadership, the company offers a wide fleet including Swift Dzire, Innova, Innova Crysta, and Tempo Traveller, along with complete tour packages featuring hotels and guided experiences. Ajay’s deep knowledge of the mountains, polite communication style, and passion for customer satisfaction have helped thousands of travellers explore the Himalayas comfortably and safely. His goal is simple—to make every journey smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable.
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