When your life is full of drag and monotony, it is the perfect time to head to the hills. You shall find your solace and peace in the laps of the mountains which cradles you in their warmth and comfort. The hill stations are always an escape from life on the plains and where you can indulge in adventure and thrill. The snow-capped hills and the roads smeared with whites, what else could you ask for if not a brilliant vacation up there in the mountains. Here are some of the best hill stations in India that you should visit when you are planning for a winter vacation. The mountains will be awestruck and mesmerised for the rest of the trip.
Jump to:
Shimla in Himachal Pradesh
The beauty of Shimla simply cannot be compared to anywhere in the rest of the world. No wonder the British had chosen this place as the summer capital of the country. They often escaped to the cool mountains of Shimla when it was unbearable in the plains. Even today the President of India is provided with a luxurious retreat space up there in Shimla to enjoy the pleasant weather. Your enthusiasm will meet the right destination once you venture into the valleys of Shimla which is appreciated for the spacious Mall Road and the magnificent churches in the Hills. The snowfall can be observed around January which continues up to the end of February.
Auli, in Uttarakhand
Another popular hill station that is wrapped in snow during the winter months is none other than the valleys of Auli in Uttarakhand. It is an extremely beautiful place with an elevation high enough to remain covered in snow for almost the whole of the winter season. You can try skiing and snow sports only at Auli when your heart calls for adventure and excitement.
The hills of Auli are situated at a height of 8400 ft above sea level and it comprises the Ropeway which is a great attraction of the Auli. The hills are located in the Garhwal district of Uttarakhand and the meadows are covered in thick ice for the entire winter season. Luxurious resorts and inns are set up for tourists who may have the best experience of their lifetime. The mountains of Auli are preferred by a massive section of tourists who are looking for an ecstatic experience up in the snow-covered mountains.
Srinagar, in Jammu and Kashmir
The place which is rightly called the heaven on earth, Srinagar remains frozen for most of the year. The famous Dal Lake freezes during the winter and you should take the Shikara ride on the lake if the weather permits. The night market established on the frozen river is a treat to the visitors who find themselves smitten by the beauty of the handicraft and traditional items found in this region. The city is located at a high elevation which permits the climate to decline around the winter months which makes it covered in snow and ice blankets for a long time. So if you are looking for the perfect white hill station, here is your option to visit Srinagar in Kashmir.
Gulmarg in Kashmir
Gulmarg in Kashmir is chosen as the best location for shooting rom-com and films in the Bollywood industry. The area is permanently snow-covered and you can indulge in snow activities like skiing and snowman making. The hotels and lodges provide a comfortable abode to the visitors who find the place extremely aesthetic because of the elevation and the snow-capped hills. Snowboarding is one of the exciting sports practised in this region which attracts a large number of tourists around October. You should visit this place during the summer months when the roads are commutable and one can observe the beauty and go sightseeing to all the locations.
Solang valley, Manali
If you are looking for the ultimate experience in life, the valley of Solang will provide you with the opportunity to indulge in cool snow sports and dip your feet and hands in designing the snowman in the icy valleys. The breathtaking scenic view of Rohtang Pass and the skiing rides will certainly leave you mesmerised and content. You should visit the place around the time of October to March to get the best experience of your lifetime.
Leh & Ladakh
Ladakh is appreciated for the beauty of the Pangong Lake and the Zanskar Mountain ranges. You will be left amazed by the towering mountain peaks surrounding you of the valley. What a pleasant experience it is to live in a comfortable hotel amidst the mountains of the Himalayas overlooking the fascinating valleys. The roads turn inaccessible during the winter season so you should try and visit Ladakh during the time of September to July.