Short answer: To see snow in Himachal, go to Solang and Sissu (via the Atal Tunnel) near Manali, Kufri and Narkanda near Shimla, or Dalhousie and Khajjiar, usually from late December to February. Solang and Sissu often hold snow until April or May. Near Dharamshala, Triund and the Dhauladhar ridges have snow, but the town itself rarely does.
Snow is the number-one reason many families come to Himachal in winter, and the number-one reason they end up disappointed: they book a hotel in a town that doesn’t actually get much. Here is where the snow really is.
The reliable places
Solang valley and Sissu (near Manali). The surest bet. Solang gets snow through winter, and since the Atal Tunnel opened, Sissu in Lahaul is about an hour from Manali and holds snow well into spring.
Kufri and Narkanda (near Shimla). Higher than Shimla itself, with more regular snow. Narkanda has had skiing slopes in good winters.
Dalhousie, Dainkund and Khajjiar. Dalhousie town often gets snow in January and February; Dainkund peak and Khajjiar meadow hold it longer.
Winter Spiti. For deep, guaranteed snow and real cold, there’s Spiti via Kinnaur. See our Winter Spiti tour.
Near Dharamshala
Lower Dharamshala very rarely gets snow, and McLeodganj only some winters. But the Dhauladhar above is white all winter, and Triund and the ridges above Naddi often have snow underfoot. More in our Dharamshala in winter guide.
Month by month
| Month | Where you’re likely to find snow |
|---|---|
| December | High passes, Solang, Sissu; towns towards the end of the month |
| January | Manali, Solang, Kufri, Dalhousie, Narkanda; heaviest snowfall |
| February | Same as January; good mix of snow and clear days |
| March | Solang, Sissu, Dainkund, the higher ridges |
| April–May | Solang upper slopes, Sissu, Rohtang (if open) |
| June | Rohtang, Kunzum La, the passes into Spiti |
Snow and roads
Snowfall is lovely to look at and hard to drive in. After heavy snow:
- Private cars may be stopped at Solang or Palchan, and local 4x4s take over
- The Dalhousie–Khajjiar road can close for a day
- Some hill roads are icy until the sun has been on them
Our drivers check every morning, and we always keep a plan B. Never let a driver push on in heavy snow just to stick to the schedule.
What to wear
Thermals, a waterproof jacket, gloves, a cap and waterproof shoes. Snow boots and suits can be rented in Manali and Solang. See the Himachal packing list.
Quick questions
Which month has the most snow in Himachal?
January and February usually bring the heaviest snowfall in the hill towns. Higher places like Solang and Sissu hold snow well into spring.
Can I see snow in Himachal in April or May?
Yes, at higher places: Solang's upper slopes, Sissu beyond the Atal Tunnel, and Rohtang Pass if it is open.
Written by the team at Ankush Travels, a tour and taxi company in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. We run these routes every week. Spotted something out of date? Tell us on WhatsApp.