8 Skiing Destinations in India to Visit This November

When winter quietly rolls into the Indian Himalayas in November, the first flakes of snow dust the mountain slopes — signalling the unofficial start of the skiing season. While most travellers wait for peak winter in December and January, November holds its own charm. It’s the time when crowds are thinner, the weather is crisp, and the first touches of snow make the mountains shimmer with quiet anticipation. For those who love the thrill of gliding over snow before the season hits full swing, here are some of the most beautiful skiing destinations in India to explore this November.

1. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Few places in the world can match the grandeur of Gulmarg. Nestled in the Pir Panjal range, this snow-clad wonder is the most famous skiing destination in India. The slopes here are world-class — a playground for both beginners and professionals. November marks the beginning of light snow in Gulmarg, turning it into a dreamy prelude to the full-blown skiing season. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, takes you up to Mount Apharwat, where panoramic views stretch endlessly across the Himalayas.

2. Auli, Uttarakhand

Often called the “Switzerland of India,” Auli is a skier’s paradise tucked amid oak and conifer forests. Its smooth slopes and crisp November winds make it ideal for those wanting to start early. While heavy snow arrives in December, late November often brings enough powder to test your skis. The artificial snow-making system ensures that even if nature takes its time, skiers still get their fix. With Nanda Devi and Mana Parbat towering in the backdrop, Auli remains one of the most scenic skiing spots in India.

3. Solang Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Just a short drive from Manali, Solang Valley comes alive with adventure sports long before the peak season. By late November, snow starts to settle on the valley floor, inviting enthusiasts to ski, snowboard, and paraglide amidst dramatic mountain views. The slopes here are gentle, making them perfect for learners. Solang’s lively atmosphere, coupled with its easy accessibility, makes it a must-visit skiing spot in India for early winter adventures.

4. Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh

About 60 kilometres from Shimla, Narkanda offers a quieter skiing experience surrounded by pine and deodar forests. The slopes begin to see light snow by mid or late November, ideal for those who prefer calm over crowds. Unlike Gulmarg or Auli, this offbeat skiing destination in India remains relatively unexplored, offering travellers a perfect mix of solitude and snow-clad beauty.

5. Kufri, Himachal Pradesh

If you’re new to skiing, Kufri is where it all begins. Located near Shimla, this hill town often gets its first snow around late November. The slopes are gentle, the views expansive, and the ski runs short but satisfying. Kufri is one of the most family-friendly skiing spots in India, making it perfect for first-timers and children eager to experience their first snowfall.

6. Mundali, Uttarakhand

Hidden away near Chakrata, Mundali is one of the most underrated skiing destinations in India. With snow beginning to fall around late November, its pristine slopes offer a raw, untouched experience for those seeking something beyond the usual tourist trails. The views of the Garhwal Himalayas are breathtaking, and the lack of crowds makes it ideal for adventure lovers who prefer serenity with their snow.

7. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Perched high in the Eastern Himalayas, Tawang turns into a stunning snowland as November draws in. While not a commercial skiing spot in India yet, the region around Sela Pass and Madhuri Lake often sees locals and adventurers testing the powdery slopes. The surrounding monasteries, frozen lakes, and dramatic terrain make it one of the most offbeat and visually spectacular winter getaways in the country.

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