Winter is here and it is the best time of the year, indeed, even if it's 2020. With the coronavirus, numerous cyclones, blasts and explosions apart from other natural calamities, 2020, in all probability, is the worst year for human civilisation (at least for this generation). But you can just about afford to celebrate because this year is almost done with.

So, how do you wish to celebrate the end of 2020? We can help you with an idea. You can just set off on a short trip to the hills and enjoy a cup of chai while enjoying the scenic view of the mountains. In fact, you can also make a snowman and play with white flakes amid the snow-capped mountains.

In this article, we list 10 places in India that you can head to to enjoy the snowfall and picturesque locations in December or even January for that matter. However, it is imperative to remember that 2020 is almost over but coronavirus isn't. So, wear a mask, maintain social distancing and follow Covid-19 protocols that you must have learnt by heart now.

Take a look at the list here:

MANALI, HIMACHAL PRADESH

This Himachal Pradesh town is a favourite tourist location. As for Delhi residents, Manali, most often, is a monthly getaway spot. In November, Manali received the season's first snowfall and the town was enveloped by a beautiful blanket of snow. Icy winds and light rains brought down the temperature further and the snow-capped mountains, needless to mention, are a sight to behold.

DHANAULTI, UTTARKHAND

Located at the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan range, Dhanaulti is a hill station in Tehri district and adventure lovers enjoy the spot. You can enjoy skiing in the snow-capped regions in Dhanaulti. Those fascinated by nature will be delighted by the rhododendrons, deodar and tall oak forests in the hilly town. You can visit Dhanaulti anytime between December and February.

ALMORA, UTTARAKHAND

Almora is a cantonment town in Uttarakhand and the view of the snow-capped Himalayas from this region is absolutely stunning. Surrounded by pines and old oak trees, Almora is renowned for its rich cultural diversity. Temples such as Chitai and Nanda Devi are favourite tourist spots in Almora as is the 200-year-old Lala Bazaar. You can shop for clothes as well as copper vessels from the famous shopping centres in Almora. Don't miss the sunset at the Bright End Corner, about 2 kms from Almora.

GULMARG, JAMMU AND KASHMIR

Gulmarg is absolutely mesmerising in December. Situated in the Pir Panjal Range in the Western Himalayas, Gulmarg is your best bet if you are willing to risk travelling to the town though. Maximum temperature in Gulmarg is 10 degree Celsius at times while the minimum temperature drops to -8 degree Celsius December onwards. In Gulmarg, you can enjoy skiing or go for a cable-car ride.

LAMBASINGI, ANDHRA PRADESH

Located in the Eastern Ghats of Chintapalli Mandal of Visakhapatnam, Lambasingi is a small village in Andhra Pradesh. November to January is generally the best time to visit Lambasingi if you wish to see snowfall in the area; though it doesn't really happen every year. The village is also known for its organic coffee and lush green countryside, misty mornings and waterfalls.

DARJEELING, WEST BENGAL

Darjeeling is basically Bengal's Manali. Every resident of the state has visited Darjeeling at least once in their lifetime and enjoyed cakes and goodies at the Glenary's Cafe. The town, located in the Himalayan foothills, is renowned for its epic view of the Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest mountain peak. Darjeeling used to be a summer resort for the British Raj elite at one point of time, and tourists enjoy the famous toy-train rides as well. However, it doesn't snow as often in Darjeeling. In 2018, it did though, after 10 years.

AULI, UTTARAKHAND

If you want to try out skiing, head to Auli straight. Tourists enjoy snow activities in the Uttarakhand hill station from November to March especially, as Auli is a popular skiing destination. Auli is located in the backdrop of the Nanda Devi and Nar Parvat mountains and its coniferous and oak forests are just perfect for nature lovers. Do visit the apple orchards in Auli.

TAWANG, ARUNACHAL PRADESH

December is the best time to visit Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, especially if you wish to enjoy snowfall. The birthplace of Tsangyang Gyatso, the 6th Dalai Lama, Tawang is known for its beautiful monasteries and scenic beauty. The Tipi Orchid Sanctuary is a famous tourist spot in the Arunachal Pradesh town.

NAINITAL, UTTARAKHAND

Surrounded by lakes and hills, Nainital is every nature lover's first option if they happen to live in North India. Thousands of tourists celebrate Christmas and New Year in Nainital every year as the city is best known for its boat rides on the Naini Lake. The Nainital Zoo is also a major tourist attraction. If you like shopping, head to the Mall Road to buy books, clothes, perfumes and aromatic candles. Don't forget to gorge on fresh, juicy strawberries.

MUNSIYARI, UTTARAKHAND

A rather unexplored location, Munsiyari is also known as Little Kashmir. The scenic hill station offers an extraordinary view of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges. It is also a popular trekking destination. From Munsiyari, you can trek to the Namik Glacier and also, the Panchchuli peaks.

So while these places mostly don't disappoint when it comes to snowfall, you must remember that it is a natural phenomenon. We suggest you check the weather forecast and temperatures before you head out. Even if you miss out on the snow, there's always the joy of escaping your mundane life for a few days!

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/lifestyle/travel/story/10-places-in-india-to-see-snowfall-in-december-and-january-1746741-2020-12-04

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