Snowfall Season in Manali

Snowfall Season in Manali – A Magical Winter Wonderland
Manali, nestled in the majestic Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most popular winter destinations in India. Tourists from across the country and the globe flock to Manali every year to witness its enchanting snowfall season. With snow-covered landscapes, thrilling winter sports, and cozy cafes, Manali during snowfall is truly a dreamlike experience.
In this blog, we will explore everything about the snowfall season in Manali – including the best months to visit, places to enjoy snow, weather conditions, travel tips, and what makes this hill station so special during winter.
📅 When is Snowfall Season in Manali?
The snowfall season in Manali typically begins in late December and lasts until early March. However, weather can vary from year to year. Here’s a quick overview:
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December: The first snowfall often starts by mid or late December.
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January: Peak snowfall month. Most areas including Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass (if accessible), and Old Manali receive heavy snow.
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February: Continued snowfall with slightly rising temperatures.
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March: Snow begins to melt, but you can still find snow in higher altitudes.
Pro Tip: If you want to see fresh snowfall in Manali, plan your trip in January or early February.
🌨️ Places to Enjoy Snowfall in Manali
Manali offers multiple locations where you can enjoy snow activities, scenic views, and unforgettable moments:
1. Solang Valley
One of the most famous snow points in Manali, Solang Valley becomes a winter sports hub during snowfall. Activities like skiing, snowboarding, tube sliding, and snowmobiling are popular here.
2. Rohtang Pass
Located around 51 km from Manali, Rohtang Pass is a snow paradise. However, it remains closed from November to April due to heavy snow. If you’re visiting in May or June, you may still find snow here from the previous winter.
3. Old Manali & Mall Road
The charming lanes of Old Manali and the lively Mall Road are often blanketed in snow during January. It’s a perfect place to sip hot coffee, enjoy snowball fights, or shop for woolens.
4. Gulaba & Kothi
When Rohtang is closed, Gulaba becomes the alternate snow destination. Located about 20 km from Manali, it offers pristine snow and fewer crowds.
🌡️ Snowfall Weather Conditions in Manali
During the snowfall months, temperatures in Manali can drop drastically:
Month | Avg. Temp (°C) | Snowfall Status |
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December | -2°C to 10°C | Light to Moderate |
January | -6°C to 5°C | Heavy Snowfall |
February | -4°C to 7°C | Moderate Snowfall |
March | 1°C to 10°C | Light Snow in Peaks |
Pack woolen clothes, thermal wear, gloves, snow boots, and moisturizers to stay warm and comfortable during your trip.
🏔️ Things to Do in Manali During Snowfall
Snow brings a whole new energy to Manali. Here are some exciting things to do:
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Skiing & Snowboarding at Solang Valley
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Snow Trekking to Lamadugh or Jogini Waterfall
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Snowmobile Rides in Gulaba
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Building Snowmen or Snowball Fights with friends
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Staying in Wooden Cottages with fireplaces
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Capture Instagram-worthy Snowy Views
🧳 Tips for Snowfall Travel in Manali
Snowfall Season in Manali Here are some important travel tips for a smooth experience during the snow season:
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Book hotels in advance – Winter is peak season and places get fully booked quickly.
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Hire a local taxi if you’re unfamiliar with snow driving.
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Wear layers instead of heavy clothes for better insulation.
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Avoid risky areas after dark due to slippery roads.
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Keep your gadgets protected from moisture and cold.
📍 Best Places to Stay During Snow Season
Some great snow-view stays in Manali include:
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Snow Valley Resorts – Gorgeous views of snow-capped peaks
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Apple Country Resort – Romantic setting amidst apple orchards
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Manu Allaya Resort – Luxury meets mountain serenity
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Zostel Manali – Budget-friendly and youth-oriented
Choose a hotel or resort with mountain views or near Solang Valley for the best snow experience.
🚗 How to Reach Manali in Snowfall Season
Reaching Manali during winter is easy but requires careful planning:
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By Road: Regular Volvo buses from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. Roads can be slippery, so check weather updates.
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By Train: Nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar (but limited connectivity).
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By Air: Bhuntar Airport (50 km from Manali) has limited flights from Delhi and Chandigarh.
Always check for road closures or weather warnings before starting your journey.
📸 Snowfall in Manali – A Photographer’s Paradise
For photographers, snowy Manali offers magical frames—pine trees covered in snow, frozen rivers, misty mornings, and golden sunsets over white landscapes. It’s perfect for travel reels, couple shoots, and adventure photography.
📅 Best Time to Visit Manali for Snow
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Ideal Window: First week of January to mid-February
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Avoid Christmas-New Year rush if you want less crowd
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Check live snow reports on ManaliWeather.com before planning
🧭 Final Thoughts
Snowfall in Manali turns this hill station into a magical winter wonderland. Whether you want adventure, romance, or just peaceful views, this season has something for everyone. With the right planning, warm clothes, and a sense of adventure, you’re all set to create unforgettable snowy memories in Manali!
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