Winter guide
Where to find snow within a day's drive, and what to know before you set off.
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When to go
• Main snow months: December to February
• January is usually the snowiest month
Snowfall changes from year to year. Check the forecast before you leave.
About 100 km · 3 hours
The closest option, set in deodar forest near Shimla. In a good winter, snow falls between December and February.
Snow here is less certain than at Kufri or Narkanda.
About 115 km
A convenient base with stays for every budget. Snow is possible, but the town is not the most reliable choice.
Stay in Shimla and drive higher for surer snow.
About 132 km
Just beyond Shimla and higher up, Kufri is the classic snow point of the region. Snow is heaviest from December to February.
Kufri saw about 30 cm in a single December storm in 2020.
About 167 km
Narkanda, about 60 km past Shimla, is a winter skiing spot that is busiest in January and February.
Hatu Peak, 7 km away, rises to about 3,400 m.
The road to Hatu depends on conditions after fresh snow.
About 280–300 km
The surest snow in January, but a long drive each way. Plan for at least two nights.
Our Manali guide covers the road, buses and fares.
Driving in snow
• Start early and avoid driving after dark
• Keep spare time: fresh snow slows the last stretch
• NH-5 can close for hours at Kufri, Fagu and Narkanda
• Check road updates before leaving Shimla
Plan your trip
Distances, buses and travel times for Shimla and beyond in our route guides.
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