Top Hill Stations to Visit Before Winter Ends in India

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India] January 14: India's winter season from December to February, turns the northern hills of the country into snowy wonders. Temperatures at the highest altitudes can fall below zero, so people usually visit these places for the majestic views, warm fires, and fun activities such as skiing or trekking. When March comes, the snow slowly melts which marks the end of this wonderful period, thus the present is a perfect time for a visit. Below is a list of the most attractive places from the challenging mountains of Himachal Pradesh to the beautiful and dreamy valleys of Kashmir. 

Located at an altitude of 2,050 m, Manali in Himachal Pradesh is a popular winter destination as the heavy snowfall covers the Rohtang Pass like a white blanket. Taking a cable car at Solang Valley will give you a 360 degree view or you can go paragliding above the definitely powdery slopes. Get some spiritual vibes by visiting the old Hadimba Temple which is surrounded by deodar trees. 

Shimla, a bustling city and capital of Himachal Pradesh is located at an altitude of 2,276 meters. It still retains the British colonial charm with snow on the Mall Road. After visiting Christ Church and Ridge Ground, you can sit in a cafe among the old Victorian buildings and enjoy a cup of tea. The toy train from Kalka slowly goes through the pine, tree, covered hills and the entire journey is recognized as a UNESCO world heritage trail. Jakhu Temple stands in honor of Lord Hanuman and from the top, you get a bird's eye view of the city just after climbing up the steep stairs. 

Located at a height of 3,000 meters in Uttarakhand, Auli has the longest ski runs on the Asian continent and so it attracts skiers and snowboarders after the December snowfalls. The cable cars from Joshimath offer you spectacular views of Nanda Devi. Besides skiing, you can hike to the Gorson Bugyal meadow or look for rare species of Himalayan plants and flowers. 

It is located at an altitude of 2,650 meters in Jammu & Kashmir. Get up to Apharwat Peak by riding the world's second, highest gondola and see the Pir Panjal mountain range from vantage point. Walk through tulip gardens (invisible in winter) or go to Maharaja's palace. Fly to Srinagar (1 hour drive); tourists' security situation is stable. This high altitude retreat is the most beautiful until the end of February, a mixture of adventure and Kashmiri hospitality.

At 1,600 meters, Munnar in Kerala offers a mild winter getaway with mist-covered hills and endless tea estates. Take a boat to see Nilgiri Tahr in Eravikulam National Park among flowering Neelakurinji (seasonal). Go hiking to Echo Point or take a boat on Mattupetty Dam. Going to spice plantations, you can have cardamom tours and buy organic teas.