As the mercury goes up the scale, we begin to migrate up in the north searching for snow. All we can wish for is Ice Ice, baby. Looking for mangoes in winter is certainly impossible, but finding snow in India in May can be possible. Thankfully, here are a few places in the northern region of India where we can find snow in the summer season.
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Book FlightsRohtang Pass, Himachal Pradesh
Remember the snowy lanes amidst which dances Geet from Jab We Met movie? Yes, that is Rohtang Pass. 50 km beyond Manali lies Rohtang Pass which takes you to the valleys of Lahaul and Spiti. Slide on the sledge or go for the skiing as you like. The place is inundated with tourists in summers. For more adventure in Manali, go for paragliding at Solang Valley.
Check Facts: It is closed on Tuesdays for tourists. A limited number of cars are allowed at a time. Hence, permits should be taken well in advance.
How to Reach: Rohtang is 50 km drive from Manali. Jogindernagar has the nearest railway station, which is around four hours drive from Manali.
Drass, Kashmir
If Serbia is far enough for you, then head straight to Drass in Kashmir which is the second coldest inhabited place in the world after Serbia. It is the place where you can definitely find snow even in May. Drass is a small town in Kargil capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Zoji La pass is essentially a beautiful bridge between lush green valleys of Kashmir and golden brown Ladakh. And when you have had enough with the chilling weather, dip into the hot springs of Puga Valley. It is also a convenient base for 3-day long trek to Suru Valley.
Tips: Walk at a slower pace and consume sufficient water. The high altitudes can cause discomfort.
How to Reach: Drass is 150 km away from Srinagar. Take a bus or a taxi from Srinagar to Kargil that will take you to Drass.
Famous amongst bikers and adventurists, Khardung La Pass gives you the feeling of a conqueror. Situated at the altitude of 5359 metres and 40 km distant from Leh, the second highest motorable road in India is a gateway to Nubra Valley. The drive is a bit arduous, but the views of the valley and roads are astounding as you wind up the road. Come prepared to Khardung La Pass as the weather changes surprisingly.
Check Facts: It is open year around. Inner Line Permit for Indians and Protected Area Permit for foreigners is required.
How to Reach: You can either take your own car or hire a car/bike from Leh to go upwards.
Yumthang Valley, Sikkim
Yumthang Valley in the northern region of Sikkim is where you can find snow all throughout the year. Also known as the flower valley of Sikkim, this place is absolutely stunning. There are many hotels near Yumthang Valley for you to stay overnight. Lachung Valley, a small hamlet near the Yumthang valley, is an equivalent scenic hotspot. 40 km above from Lachung is Zero Point where the civilization ends. The nature from this point is ecstatic and mind-numbing. With no road ahead, you will get the real feels of what a dead end is.
Other Attractions: Zuluk, the old silk route in Sikkim, is another paradise in nature where you can find snow.
How to Reach: It is 150 km away from Gangtok. The nearest railway station to Gangtok is about 148 km away in Siliguri. The station is well-connected to cities like Kolkata and New Delhi.
Gulmarg, Kashmir
Switzerland of India, Gulmarg is where you can find snow even in summers. Gulmarg is a beautiful valley in Kashmir with its deep ravines and forested hills. The snow-capped peaks and high slopes make it the prime destination in Asia for heli-skiing. A little above this place, lies the ‘Meadow of Gold’ called Sonmarg. The charismatic Kashmir package will take you on a wonderful journey across the lush green valleys of Kashmir.
Things to do: Look out for the main attraction in Gulmarg called Gondola which is the highest cable car in the world.
How to Reach: The nearest airport in Gulmarg is in Srinagar, 56 km away. Jammu is the nearest railway station to Gulmarg, at a distance of 290 km.
And you thought you wouldn’t find snow in May. What are you waiting for? Go, flee to these places before the snow melts. Don’t forget to take your woollens. Have a snowy summer!
