5 destinations that are perfect for snowy New Year celebrations

It is year-end and the great Himalayas are already covered in fresh snow! While that has put regular life on hold for a while, travellers seeking some white fun cannot be happier. If you belong to the latter category and are raring to go, we have got you this must-visit list of five places in the Himalayas that have already snow for the year. Go now, if you have some snowy New Year celebrations in mind, because snow is where all the fun is.

1. Lahaul & Spiti Those high on adrenaline should not skip this road trip. While the route from Manali for Lahaul and Spiti is shut for the year, you can still go to Shimla and take the road to Kinnaur to reach Spiti and, then, Lahaul. If you believe you can face bitter cold and endure driving in treacherous conditions, this is the trip for you. I suggest that you go with a local driver though; those in the know would be well aware of how tricky these roads can be even in clear weather! Expect frozen waterfalls, frozen tap water and a lot on this trip; with some caution, it can be a lifetime’s experience.
2. Ladakh Ladakh is a landscape heaven all through the year, but a fresh bout of snow is when the region turns dreamier than ever. If you think you can brave sub-zero temperatures and follow our winter guide to Ladakh, a white Ladakh awaits you. While the highways to Leh are shut, you can still take a flight to Leh and also enjoy the astoundingly low off-season tariffs. Needless to write, a snowy trip to Ladakh will be a more special treat if you are into photography.

3. Pahalgam
Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir is as close as heaven as you can get to on this planet. Imagine the magic unfold in winters, and I might run short of words to describe the charm that awaits you. If cosy homestays, Kashmir’s wazwan and rounds of kehwa, cheerful kids, and stunningly Alpine landscape sounds like a great trip, you should definitely book that dream trip to Srinagar.
4. Auli
Think of a glorious snowfall and you cannot not think of Uttarkhand; more so if there is skiing on your mind. Yes, we are talking of Auli, one of the most stunning landscapes that you can have for skiing in India. The place already had its first bout of snow for the year on November 3, and met department has more good news to share. So yes, all roads should lead to Auli this winter.

Read more: Your detailed guide to Auli

5) Solang Valley
If you are still not over the lure of Kullu and Manali, the very lovely Solang Valley is calling with its snowscape terrain. Solang, too, received a surprising bout of fresh snow over the weekend and has more coming if you look at the weather forecast. Needless to say, the otherwise green valley looks quite surreal when it snows and makes for a perfect weekend getaway.