Top 10 Cold Places in India to Visit in 2025

Hey Traveller!

With its diverse landscape, India offers some breathtaking cold destinations perfect for escaping the summer heat or indulging in winter adventures. Whether you’re seeking snow-clad mountains, tranquil hill stations, or chilly deserts, these top cold places in India are worth exploring in 2025.

1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

A perennial favorite, Manali is known for its snow-covered landscapes, adventure activities, and picturesque views. Visit Solang Valley for skiing and paragliding, or explore the quaint cafes and vibrant markets in Old Manali. For 2025, expect new eco-tourism initiatives and updated adventure packages.

Key Highlights:

• Activities: Skiing, paragliding, trekking
• Best Time to Visit: December to February
• Must-Visit Spots: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Temple

2. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Known as the "Meadow of Flowers," Gulmarg transforms into a winter wonderland during colder months. It boasts the world’s highest gondola ride and excellent skiing opportunities. Gulmarg's pristine beauty remains unparalleled, making it a top choice for winter sports enthusiasts.

Key Highlights:

• Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, gondola rides
• Best Time to Visit: December to March
• Must-Visit Spots: Gulmarg Gondola, Alpather Lake

3. Leh-Ladakh

Famous for its dramatic landscapes, Leh-Ladakh offers an icy desert experience. It's a haven for thrill-seekers, from the frozen Pangong Lake to the Chadar Trek over the Zanskar River. The unique culture and serene monasteries add to its charm.

Key Highlights:

• Activities: Trekking, ice skating, monastery visits
• Best Time to Visit: January to February
• Must-Visit Spots: Pangong Lake, Chadar Trek, Thiksey Monastery

4. Auli, Uttarakhand

Auli is India’s premier skiing destination, offering panoramic views of peaks like Nanda Devi and Mana Parbat. Its well-maintained slopes and cable car rides make it ideal for adventure and relaxation. In 2025, enhanced facilities are expected to elevate the experience further.

Key Highlights:

• Activities: Skiing, hiking, cable car rides
• Best Time to Visit: December to March
• Must-Visit Spots: Auli Ski Resort, Gurso Bugyal

5. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

The "Queen of Hills" is a year-round favorite but shines during winter when it dons a snowy coat. Ride on the Kalka-Shimla toy train, explore colonial architecture, or enjoy ice skating at the open-air rink. Shimla’s charm lies in its balance of history and natural beauty.

Key Highlights:

• Activities: Ice skating, heritage walks, toy train rides
• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Must-Visit Spots: Ridge, Mall Road, Jakhu Temple

6. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Nestled in the northeastern Himalayas, Tawang is known for its snow-laden landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and rich culture. Sela Pass and Tawang Monastery are must-visit spots. The serene ambiance and pristine environment make it a hidden gem for 2025.

Key Highlights:

• Activities: Monastery visits, trekking
• Best Time to Visit: December to March
• Must-Visit Spots: Sela Pass, Tawang Monastery

7. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Dubbed “Little Tibet,” Spiti Valley is a remote cold desert with mesmerizing views. It's perfect for solitude seekers, from frozen rivers to ancient monasteries like Key Monastery. Winter adds an ethereal beauty to its stark landscapes.

Key Highlights:

• Activities: Monastery tours, trekking
• Best Time to Visit: December to February
• Must-Visit Spots: Key Monastery, Chandratal Lake

8. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Darjeeling is famous for its tea gardens and colonial charm and offers crisp mountain air and stunning views of Kanchenjunga. The Toy Train, Batasia Loop, and Tiger Hill Sunrise are unmissable experiences. Its cool climate and laid-back vibe attract travelers year-round.

Key Highlights:

• Activities: Toy train rides, tea garden tours
• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Must-Visit Spots: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery

9. Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Rajasthan’s only hill station, Mount Abu, provides a cool respite amidst the desert. Highlights include the Dilwara Temples, Nakki Lake, and Guru Shikhar Peak. The mild winter chill and scenic beauty make it a unique cold destination.

Key Highlights:

• Activities: Boating, temple visits, hiking
• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Must-Visit Spots: Nakki Lake, Dilwara Temples

10. Lachen, Sikkim

Lachen offers untouched beauty and a tranquil atmosphere. It's a paradise for nature lovers, from the snow-covered Gurudongmar Lake to the lush green valleys. 2025, this remote gem could become more accessible, making it a must-visit.

Key Highlights:

• Activities: Nature walks, monastery visits
• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• Must-Visit Spots: Gurudongmar Lake, Chopta Valley

Planning Your Trip

Before heading to these destinations, check weather updates and road conditions, especially for high-altitude areas. Pack warm clothing, essentials for snow activities, and a spirit of adventure.

Destination	Best Time to Visit	Key Activities
Manali	December to February	Skiing, paragliding, trekking
Gulmarg	December to March	Skiing, gondola rides
Leh-Ladakh	January to February	Trekking, monastery visits
Auli	December to March	Skiing, cable car rides
Shimla	November to February	Ice skating, heritage walks
Tawang	December to March	Monastery tours, trekking
Spiti Valley	December to February	Monastery visits, trekking
Darjeeling	October to February	Toy train rides, tea tours
Mount Abu	November to February	Boating, temple visits
Lachen	November to March	Nature walks, monastery visits

Final Thoughts

India’s cold destinations offer an unmatched blend of adventure, tranquility, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or looking to unwind in a serene setting, these places promise unforgettable experiences in 2025. Pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to create lasting memories by visiting places in India that are cold.