Many people think that for winter sports we need to go to Switzerland or Canada.
But the truth is — India has equally thrilling winter sport destinations where you can try skiing, snowboarding, sledging, snow scooty and even chair-lift/gondola rides and all the places mentioned in this blog are easily accessible for all and all of them are considered as perfect destinations whether it is about peace lovers or adventure seekers whether you are pro in winter sports or a beginner.
If you want to do something more than normal sightseeing this winter, then here are India’s Top 3 Winter Sports Destinations with all details — activities, costs, best time, tips and FAQs.
1) Gulmarg – Kashmir
Best known for: World-class Skiing & Snowboarding + Asia’s highest Gondola (approximately at the hight of 4200 meters)
If you want real winter adventure then Gulmarg is the No.1 destination in India. It is situated amidst the mystical beauty of Kashmir. So in a single trip, one can find both, peace and thrill.
Actual ski professionals from Europe also train here because snow quality is very good and it is natural powder snow.
Activities:
- Skiing (beginner & advanced both)
- Snowboarding
- Gondola Phase 1 from Gulmarg to Kongdoor station & Phase 2 ride from Kongdoor to near Apharwat peak.
- Snow scooters
- Sledging
Approx Costs:
| Activity | Cost (Approx) |
| Gondola Phase 1 | ₹750 – ₹900 |
| Gondola Phase 2 | ₹950 – ₹1200 |
| Beginner ski training (1 day) | ₹2500 – ₹3500 |
| Snow scooter ride | ₹800 – ₹1500 |
Best Time to Visit:
Late December to March (Peak: Jan & Feb)
Why Gulmarg is special:
The terrain here is professional level. So if you want a high-adrenaline winter sports trip, Gulmarg is the best.
2) Auli – Uttarakhand
Best known for: Beginner-friendly skiing + stunning Himalayan panorama
Auli is very scenic and also peaceful. The slopes are managed by GMVN, which means instruction and equipment is organised and reliable. You can find complete details about how to reach Auli in our [Auli travel blog].
Activities:
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Ropeway ride (Asia’s longest ~4.15km) from Joshimath to Auli.
- Chair-lift
- Easy snow treks
Approx Costs:
| Activity | Cost (Approx) |
| Ropeway Joshimath-Auli | ₹1000 – ₹1200 |
| Chair-lift ride | ₹500 – ₹800 |
| Ski course (daily) | ₹2000 – ₹3500 |
| GMVN weekly ski course | around ₹15,000 – ₹20,000 |
Best Time:
January & February (snow normally starts by late December)
Why choose Auli:
If you are going for the first time and want to learn skiing in easy slopes + enjoy amazing mountain visuals → Auli is perfect.
3) Solang Valley – Manali (Himachal)
Best known for: Easy access + most popular winter sport hub in Himachal
Solang Valley gets tons of winter travellers every year because it is very easy to reach (just 13 km from Manali town) and for Manali you can refer our [Manali travel blog].
And the snow activities here are one of the best in North India after Gulmarg & Auli. So it can be considered as a great skiing hub for the beginners.
Activities:
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Snow scooters / ATV rides
- Winter paragliding (depending on weather)
- Sledging on snow slopes
Approx Costs:
| Activity | Cost (Approx) |
| Beginner ski lesson (1-2 hours) | ₹1500 – ₹2500 |
| Snow scooter ride | ₹500 – ₹1200 |
| Snowboard rental | ₹800 – ₹1200 |
Best Time:
January to early March
(snow depends on season, some years heavy snowfall from late December also starts)
Why Solang Valley is a great option:
Because it is the easiest & fastest winter sport destination to reach by road in India.
Perfect for families, couples and friend groups who want snow adventure without complex travel planning.
Which place is best for what?
| If your priority is… | Choose… |
| Best professional skiing | Gulmarg |
| Beginner friendly learning | Auli |
| Easy to reach + All-round activities | Solang Valley |
Budget Estimate per person (4–5 days trip)
| Destination | Budget Range |
| Auli | ₹18,000 – ₹35,000 |
| Solang Valley (Manali) | ₹18,000 – ₹32,000 |
| Gulmarg | ₹25,000 – ₹45,000 |
(Travel mode + hotel quality can change the cost)
What to pack for a snow sports trip
- Snow jackets (waterproof)
- Snow shoes or gumboots (very important)
- Thermal inners + fleece layer
- Woollen cap + gloves
- Sunglasses (snow glare is very strong)
- Sunscreen SPF 50 (you will tan without this)
- Lip balm
Small Tip: Instead of wearing one thick jacket → always wear 3 layers so you can remove and adjust comfort.
Practical Tips before booking
- Check snowfall status before booking because in some seasons snowfall starts late
- Online booking for ropeway/gondola helps save waiting time in peak season
- Weekends in Jan–Feb have a lot of rush, weekdays are cheaper and easier
- Keep offline cash because card machines sometimes don’t work in extreme winter
FAQs
Q1) Is skiing safe for beginners?
Yes. You will always start on beginner slopes with instructor supervision.
Q2) Which month is safest bet for guaranteed snow?
From January mid to February end is usually the most reliable.
Q3) Can we rent everything there?
Yes. Ski shoes, ski sticks, snowboards, jackets —Everything is available there.
Q4) Is snowboarding harder than skiing?
Snowboarding looks cool in photos, but skiing is easier to learn first time.
Final thoughts
India now has world class winter sport experiences and if you want to try something new this winter, then Gulmarg, Auli and Solang Valley are the top 3 destinations for real adventure.
- Gulmarg → perfect for strong thrill seekers
- Auli → perfect for beginners + beautiful slopes
- Solang → perfect for quick, easy and affordable snow adventure trip
Plan your winter trip in January-February and book activities early. This winter, don’t just see snow — play in snow and make lifetime memories.