Snowfall is one of the most awaited and breathtaking natural wonders in India, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. As the winter season approaches, many people eagerly await the magic of snow. October is here, and with it comes the opportunity to witness the season’s first snowfall in various parts of the country. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and indulge in some snow-filled fun, you can enjoy a range of activities like skiing, snowboarding, building snowmen, or simply basking in the serene beauty of the snow-covered landscape. Here are some top destinations to witness the beauty of the October 2025 snowfall in India.
October 2025 Snowfall In India
1. Solang Valley and Rohtang, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass are among the first locations in the Manali region to receive snow in October. Light snow can be seen in Solang Valley towards the end of October, while Rohtang regularly receives its first seasonal snow earlier in the month and turns into a white desert by late October. This makes them popular spots for travelers eager to experience fresh snow before winter fully sets in. Road closures due to early snow are common, so travelers should check local advisories before planning a visit to Rohtang in October. The combination of snow-covered peaks and chilly temperatures offers a quintessential Himalayan winter experience, perfect for snow sports and breathtaking scenery.
How to reach Solang Valley from Manali
- Shared cabs or taxis available from Manali Mall Road or near Old Manali bridge (fare approx Rs. 2000-3000 round trip).
- By bus from Manali to Solang Valley (a limited number of buses available).
- Taxi from Bhuntar Airport to Manali and then to Solang Valley.
How to reach Rohtang Pass from Manali
- Drive or hire a taxi from Manali through Solang Valley and Dhundi.
- The drive takes about 3 hours (51 km distance).
- Note: Rohtang Pass travel may require permits, which can be arranged locally.
2. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Spiti Valley, with its high-altitude location, starts to witness snowfall as early as October, especially in the upper reaches.. Early October typically brings cold winds and occasional brief flurries, with heavier snow possible as the month progresses. The landscape transforms into a lovely white desert, attracting photographers and trekkers seeking a fun winter scenery. Villages in upper Spiti may become difficult to reach as the snow starts blocking mountain roads. The isolation and early snow make Spiti an adventurous, offbeat destination in October, but travel preparations and weather monitoring are essential.
How To Reach:
- By Road: From Shimla: The route from Shimla to Spiti Valley (via Kinnaur) is open throughout the year and covers about 420 km. From Manali: The route is around 196-200 km, and is open typically from June to October due to snow closures at Kunzum Pass.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu), about 245 km from Kaza (the main town in Spiti).
- By Rail: The nearest major railway station is Chandigarh.
3. Shimla Region (Kufri, Narkanda), Himachal Pradesh
Kufri and Narkanda, near Shimla, are hill stations that are well-known for their winter snow, but occasionally catch early light snow towards late October. While heavy snowfall is common in December and January, the mountain trails and forests here sometimes receive snow during late October. Crisp air, frosty mornings, and the anticipation of winter attract tourists eager to get a preview of the snow season. These regions serve as easy to reach destinations from Shimla for visitors wishing to witness October snow without going deep into higher Himalayan territory. The scenery becomes more picturesque with the first snow settling on pine and cedar forests.
How To Reach:
- By Road: From Shimla, Kufri is about 16 km away, and Narkanda is around 60 km away. They are accessible by local taxis, buses, or private vehicles. Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) provides comfortable and frequent bus services.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti Airport, around 23 km from Shimla
- By Rail: The nearest broad-gauge railway station is Kalka, about 90 km from Shimla. There is a scenic narrow-gauge railway (toy train) from Kalka to Shimla, which takes around 5-6 hours.
4. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang, a picturesque town in the Eastern Himalayas, is one of the best places to witness the first snow showers as early as October, offering a magical winter experience in 2025. The region’s high altitude ensures that the October nights are cold enough for snow. This makes Tawang one of the best early-winter destinations in Northeast India for snow lovers. With its famous monasteries and tranquil lakes, this place in October becomes even more enchanting under a fresh layer of snow. The roads to Tawang, including Sela Pass, generally see moderate snowfall, so road conditions can be variable. Travelers to Tawang in October can expect stunning views and the very high possibility of experiencing the change of seasons.
How To Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, approximately 515 km from Tawang.
- By Road: From Guwahati, the road journey to Tawang takes about 10-12 hours, covering roughly 515 km. Shared Taxis and government buses are budget-friendly options.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Guwahati Railway Station
5. Lachung & Yumthang Valley, Sikkim
Lachung and Yumthang Valley in Sikkim are known for their natural beauty and early October snowfall. The place often witnesses light snow in the higher regions from mid-October onwards. The Yumthang Valley, also called the ‘Valley of Flowers,’ turns into a snowy wonderland way before the plain areas experience winter cold. Snow-capped peaks, frozen rivers, and the changing colors of alpine forests create a gorgeous setting for nature lovers. Lachung, as the base for exploring Yumthang, offers lovely vistas with occasional snow showers from early October. The region’s increasingly cold weather, combined with the first snow, attracts travelers who wish to witness the beauty of snowfall in October 2025.
How To Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri, approximately 125 km from Lachung. From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Gangtok, which is about 102 km away.
- By Rail: The closest railway station is New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri
- By Road: Most travelers prefer traveling by road from Gangtok, Bagdogra, or Siliguri. The journey from Gangtok, about 103 km away, takes around 4-5 hours by taxi or cab
Summing Up
All these destinations offer a range of activities like skiing, snowboarding, and trekking amidst stunning winter landscapes, transforming India into a winter wonderland, and providing unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, India’s snowfall destinations have something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to witness the magic of snow. Enjoy the winter wonderland!
