Monday, 23 December 2024
Monday, 23 December 2024
Imagine celebrating Christmas surrounded by snow, with twinkling lights decorating charming churches and the air filled with the scent of pine trees. Picture yourself waking up to a winter month, where everything is covered in a soft, white blanket of snow. If this sounds like the perfect Christmas to you then India has a number of beautiful destinations where you can experience a magical, snowy Christmas. From snow-covered peaks to peaceful valleys, these places offer the perfect setting to celebrate the holiday season. The Telegraph Online picks 5 destinations where you can enjoy a true White Christmas in India.
1. Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli, located in Uttarakhand, is perfect for a white Christmas celebration. Known for its beautiful skiing slopes, Auli offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains covered in snow. During Christmas, the entire region turns into a snowy land. Whether you're skiing or simply enjoying the snow, Auli promises an unforgettable experience.
Snowfall Last Year: Auli had witnessed its first and only snowfall of the season on December 25, 2023, and then again after January 18, 2024.
How to Get There: Auli can be reached by road from Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun, which are well-connected by train and bus. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 280 km away.
Where to stay: There are several hotels and resorts in Auli, ranging from budget stays to luxury resorts.
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in India, especially during Christmas. The town is famous for its snow-covered landscapes, quaint markets, and festive spirit. With snow-capped mountains surrounding the area, Manali has the perfect setting for a traditional Christmas celebration.
Snowfall Last Year: on 6 December 2023, snow was available for tourists at Atal Tunnel, Dhundi, Gulaba, and Lahaul Valley. Additionally, fresh snowfall occurred on 16 October 2023 in areas like Rohtang Pass, Marhi, Atal Tunnel, parts of Lahaul, and Hamta.
How to Get There: Manali is easily accessible by road from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other cities in the region. The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, and the closest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar), located around 50 km from the town.
Where to stay: A range of accommodations are available from budget hotels to star-rated properties.
3. Patnitop, Jammu & Kashmir
Patnitop, located in Jammu & Kashmir, is an ideal destination for snow lovers. This hill station experiences snowfall from December to February, making it a perfect place to enjoy a white Christmas. Surrounded by the stunning Pir Panjal mountain range, Patnitop has a magical atmosphere to celebrate the season with snow, scenic beauty, and festive spirit.
Snowfall Last Year: Patnitop and surrounding areas saw snowfall on November 10, 2023 and December 16, 2023 in the surrounding Kashmir mountains and hills.
How to Get There: Patnitop is well-connected by road, with regular buses from Jammu which is 110 km away. The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, and the closest airport is Jammu Airport, about 112 km from Patnitop.
Where to stay: There are several hotels and guesthouses in and around Patnitop, including the JKTDC (Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation) run accommodations, which offer comfortable stays at affordable rates.
4. Yumthang, Sikkim
At an altitude of 8,800 ft above sea level, Yumthang, also known as the Valley of Flowers, is located in Lachung, North Sikkim. If you don’t find snow at Yumthang itself, a short trip up to Zero Point, always covered in snow, offers the perfect winter getaway. The land there is a sight to behold, covered with snow, stretching as far as the eye can see. The town of Lachung, too, becomes a picture worthy December destination with its colourful houses, frozen streams, and snow-covered trees. If you visit in late December, you may witness this beautiful town fully in snow, making it feel like a scene straight out of a film.
Snowfall Last Year: Sikkim had its first snowfall of the season on October 25, 2023, which resulted in a significant growth of tourists.
How to Get There: Yumthang is accessible from Gangtok (about 140 km away), with roads connecting it to Lachung. The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport in Sikkim, around 120 km away, while the nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal.
Where to stay: While staying in Yumthang itself can be difficult, Lachung offers a range of accommodations such as budget hotels and several local guesthouses. Many of these properties provide basic amenities.
5. Ladakh
Ladakh is known for its rough landscapes, and during December, it transforms into a snow-covered heaven. The snow-covered mountains and frozen rivers, including the famous Zanskar, make it a haven for adventure lovers. Trekking on the frozen Zanskar river is a must-do activity for adrenaline junkies. Despite being an off-season month, Ladakh still attracts a few people who want to experience the peace of this region when the streets are quiet and the snow blankets everything.
Snowfall Last Year: Ladakh experienced heavy snowfall around mid to last week of December, 2023, due to a western disturbance.
How to Get There: Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is connected by road from Manali and Srinagar, though the roads are usually shut in December due to heavy snow. The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh.
Where to stay: During December, many hotels and homestays in Ladakh close due to the harsh weather conditions. However, a few places remain open, offering discounted stays. Please note, if flying into Leh, consult your doctor and arm yourself with knowledge about altitude sickness.
