Experiencing the magic of fresh snowfall in India's majestic mountains doesn't have to be expensive. Picking the right destinations and keeping a tight watch on budget-friendly travel can make it possible for one to plan a memorable winter vacation with under ₹30,000 per head for a 4-5 day itinerary.
Here are five of the best destinations where you can experience heavy snowfall while keeping a tight rein on your budget.
Gulmarg sits in the Pir Panjal range and is often referred to as the ‘Meadow of Flowers’, but during winter, it becomes the undisputed skiing capital of India. It offers one of the most spectacular snow experiences globally. The best time to experience the snowfall is mid-December to February. Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest operating cable cars in the world, will take you to the top of the Apharwat Peak for breathtaking views. And of course, Gulmarg offers world-class options for skiing and snowboarding.
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Manali is one of the most famous hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, combining natural beauty with thrilling adventure. While snow covers Manali town, the real action related to winter happens around the town. Snowfall generally starts by mid-December and continues until Christmas and New Year's. Solang Valley, lying just a few kilometres away from Manali, is the main centre for winter sports such as skiing, paragliding, and snow tubing. Besides, the narrow lanes and traditional wooden houses make Old Manali a very quaint and tranquil experience, far from the hustle and bustle of the main town.
Perched in the Garhwal Himalayas, the skiing destination of Auli is known for its panoramic views of major peaks like Nanda Devi. It is a premier winter sports destination and not as crowded as its Kashmiri and Himachali counterparts. Mid-December to March is the best time for its main attraction. Auli boasts of magnificent, well-groomed slopes that are just perfect for both beginner and professional skiers. The cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli provides breathtaking, aerial views of the snow-laden Himalayan range.
Known as the ‘Valley of Shepherds’, Pahalgam offers a tranquil, postcard-perfect snowy experience distinct from the adventure focus of Gulmarg. It is famous for its serene valleys and the flowing Lidder River, which looks stunning against the white backdrop. The destination often gets a thick white blanket by late December. Baisaran Valley, or ‘Mini Switzerland’, is an oval-shaped grassy meadow, completely snow-clad and apt for photography and relaxation amidst nature. Aru Valley is a scenic village near Pahalgam, equally snow-bound, offering views of a breathtaking landscape and a peaceful getaway.
Few places offer the unique blend of snow and spiritual culture like Tawang in the North East. At high altitude, it offers pristine, untouched snowfields and is set amidst a rich Tibetan Buddhist culture. The Tawang Monastery is one such place where one finds spirituality nestled amidst the vast stretches of snow-capped mountains. The Sela Pass itself is at an extremely high altitude, which always stays smothered under snow for many months of peak winter, thus creating a dramatic, unparalleled drive.
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