Snowy Escapes in India: 5 Destinations in March

As spring begins to warm the plains and gardens burst into bloom, the Himalayas remain wrapped in winter’s final embrace. March is a fascinating month in India’s high-altitude regions. It is a time of transition, where the harsh bite of January softens, yet snow continues to linger across mountain passes, ski slopes and alpine meadows. For travellers who missed peak winter or prefer fewer crowds with clearer skies, this period offers a rare opportunity to witness snow without the intensity of mid-season tourism. Thoughtfully planned holiday can open the door to serene landscapes where winter quietly overstays its welcome in the most beautiful way.

Snowfall in March depends largely on altitude and regional weather patterns. While lower hill stations begin to thaw, destinations perched above 2,000 metres often retain substantial snow cover. The advantage of travelling during this shoulder season lies in balance. Roads are typically more accessible than in heavy winter, accommodation availability improves, and the mountains feel calmer, almost contemplative. For those seeking crisp air, sweeping white vistas and a slower pace, March can be one of the most rewarding months to explore India’s snowbound corners.

Manali – Snow with Accessibility

Manali remains one of the most reliable destinations for spotting snow in March. Located in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu Valley, this iconic hill station benefits from its proximity to higher regions such as Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass. Even as daytime temperatures begin to rise slightly in town, the upper elevations often remain blanketed in white.

March offers a particularly pleasant version of Manali. The intense chill of deep winter begins to ease, yet snow activities may still be available in higher zones depending on weather conditions. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding and snow scooter rides while soaking in panoramic views of the Pir Panjal range. The Beas River flows dramatically past snow-lined banks, creating postcard-worthy scenery at every turn. For travellers wishing to explore the region in greater depth, this comprehensive guide to Himachal Pradesh provides valuable seasonal insights and route suggestions.

Beyond adventure, Manali in March invites long, peaceful walks through Old Manali’s pine forests, café visits overlooking snow-capped peaks and scenic drives framed by icy ridgelines. The atmosphere feels unhurried, allowing visitors to absorb the mountain landscape at a gentler rhythm.

Gulmarg – India’s Snow Crown

Gulmarg’s reputation as India’s premier snow destination extends confidently into March. Situated in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pir Panjal range, its altitude allows snow conditions to remain favourable long after other hill stations begin to transition towards spring.

The famed Gulmarg Gondola carries visitors high towards Apharwat Peak, where powdery slopes often stay ski-ready well into the month. March frequently brings improved visibility compared to peak winter storms, unveiling sweeping Himalayan panoramas under brilliant blue skies. Skiers and snowboarders continue to find rewarding terrain, while non-skiers can simply revel in the spectacle of vast white meadows stretching towards distant ridges.

The charm of Gulmarg in March lies in its scale and serenity. With slightly thinner crowds than peak winter, travellers can experience the grandeur of snow-covered landscapes without feeling rushed. The interplay of sunlight and snow creates dramatic contrasts, making it a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Auli – Quiet Slopes, Grand Views

Auli offers a quieter, more intimate snow experience. Perched in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, this destination is renowned for its skiing infrastructure and commanding views of Himalayan giants such as Nanda Devi. Thanks to its elevation, snow frequently lingers into early spring.

March brings a subtle transformation. The harshness of winter begins to soften, yet the slopes often remain covered in white. The ropeway journey to Auli is an experience in itself, gliding above snow-dusted oak and conifer forests. Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with sweeping vistas that feel both vast and tranquil.

Unlike more commercial hill stations, Auli retains a sense of calm. Travellers can enjoy snow activities at a relaxed pace, take reflective walks along the slopes or simply admire the mountains under gentler sunshine. It is an ideal destination for families, couples and solo explorers seeking a blend of adventure and peace.

Tawang – Snow with Cultural Depth

In the far northeast, Tawang presents a strikingly different snow experience. Although snowfall may taper off by March, higher passes such as Sela Pass often remain covered in snow. The journey to Tawang is dramatic, winding through icy lakes and rugged mountain roads that reveal sweeping Himalayan scenery.

The presence of Tawang Monastery adds profound cultural depth to the landscape. Seeing the monastery set against snow-covered hills creates a visual contrast that feels almost cinematic. March can offer slightly more stable travel conditions than peak winter, though Inner Line Permits and weather checks remain essential.

Tawang’s remote character enhances its appeal. The quieter atmosphere allows travellers to connect more deeply with both nature and local heritage. Snow here feels less commercial and more elemental, woven into daily life and spiritual surroundings.

Lachung – The Beauty of Transition

In North Sikkim, Lachung and the nearby Yumthang Valley frequently hold onto their winter beauty into March. What distinguishes this region is the visible transition between seasons. Snow still blankets higher elevations, while early signs of spring begin to stir beneath melting frost.

This delicate overlap creates landscapes of remarkable texture and colour. Snow-covered orchards stand alongside subtle hints of blooming rhododendrons, offering a rare two-season panorama. As with Tawang, permits are required, and road conditions should be monitored carefully due to shifting mountain weather.

Lachung’s charm lies in its understated elegance. The village atmosphere feels peaceful, the scenery expansive and the experience refreshingly unhurried. For travellers drawn to lesser-explored corners of the country, discovering inspiring offbeat escapes can further enrich their journey across India’s varied landscapes.

Planning a Snow Trip in March

While March offers compelling advantages, preparation remains crucial. Mountain weather can shift unexpectedly, with occasional late-season snowfall affecting road access. Monitoring forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and staying updated with local advisories enhances safety and confidence.

Layered clothing is essential, as temperatures can fluctuate between sunny afternoons and chilly evenings. Waterproof footwear, insulated jackets and thermal wear ensure comfort across varying conditions. Flexible accommodation bookings can also provide reassurance during this transitional season.

Financially, March can present better value compared to peak winter months. Slightly lower tourist density often translates into improved hotel availability and a more immersive travel experience. Attractions feel less crowded, allowing travellers to savour snowy vistas without haste.

Snow in March is not about dramatic blizzards or extreme cold. Instead, it is about the lingering poetry of winter, the way sunlight glimmers on melting frost and the quiet stillness of mountains preparing for spring. In destinations such as Manali, Gulmarg, Auli, Tawang and Lachung, winter does not end abruptly. It fades gracefully, offering one final opportunity to witness India’s high-altitude landscapes draped in white. For travellers seeking more thrilling experiences on snow, these winter sports destinations provide action-packed adventures across India.

Beyond the thrill of snow and winter sports, March offers a unique chance to connect with local culture and traditions in these mountainous regions. From tasting hearty Himachali and Kashmiri cuisine to witnessing Tibetan monasteries cloaked in frost or exploring quaint Sikkimese villages under a dusting of snow, every experience feels more personal and immersive. Travellers can enjoy the calm, reflective beauty of the mountains while engaging with communities that have thrived in winter for centuries, making a March snow trip not just a scenic escape, but a journey rich in culture, heritage and unforgettable memories.