Snowy Weekends Near Delhi: Quick Escapes to Beat the Winter Blues
Escape the Winter Blues — Without Traveling Too Far
As winter settles across North India, Delhi’s residents start craving a break from the fog, traffic, and routine. And what’s better than a snowy weekend escape just a few hours away from the capital?
Imagine waking up to white landscapes, sipping chai by a bonfire, walking through pine forests, and watching fresh snowflakes fall. The best part? You don’t need long holidays — just a weekend and a warm jacket.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the best snowy weekend getaways near Delhi for winter 2025.
Shimla: Delhi’s Favourite Winter Playground
Just a 7–8 hour drive, Shimla is the easiest way to enjoy snow without going too remote. In December and January, the town often receives fresh snowfall, turning the Ridge and Mall Road into magical white stretches.
Why Choose Shimla:
- Easy road access
- Chance of fresh snowfall
- Ice-skating rink (one of the oldest in Asia)
- Perfect for families and couples
Don’t Miss:
Christ Church, Jakhu Temple, Kufri day trip, and hot gulab jamuns near Lakkar Bazaar.
Kufri: Snow Wonderland Only 16 km from Shimla
If you want more snow and fewer crowds, Kufri is the place. Higher altitude = more snowfall, more fun, and more winter vibes.
Why Kufri Is Perfect for a Weekend Escape:
- Fresh snow carpets in December–February
- Ski slopes and tobogganing
- Stunning pine forests
- Quiet stays with panoramic views
Best For:
Couples, families with kids, and snow-lovers.
Mukteshwar: Peace, Pines & Occasional Snowfall
A 7–8 hour drive from Delhi, Mukteshwar in Uttarakhand offers a peaceful winter retreat with views of Nanda Devi and snowfall between late December and mid-January.
Why Go to Mukteshwar:
- Calm, relaxed winter getaway
- Apple orchards and pine forests
- Sunrise views of Himalayan peaks
- Ideal budget + boutique stay options
Activities:
Trekking to Mukteshwar Temple, sunset at Chauli Ki Jali, and cozy cafés.
Kanatal: Snowy & Serene Himalayan Hideout
Quiet, scenic, and close to both Mussoorie and Tehri Lake — Kanatal is one of the most underrated snowy escapes near Delhi.
Why Kanatal Is a Winter Gem:
- Snowfall chances in late Dec–Jan
- Eco-resorts, glamping tents, and wooden cottages
- Perfect for stargazing
- Forest trails and valley views
Drive Time from Delhi:
8–9 hours.
Chakrata: Offbeat Snow Retreat (Perfect for Privacy)
If you love untouched landscapes, Chakrata is a winter paradise. Surrounded by dense deodar forests, this military cantonment often receives beautiful snowfall.
Why Choose Chakrata:
- Offbeat and peaceful
- Amazing snow-covered slopes
- Tiger Falls and Budher Caves
- Less commercialized
Drive Time:
7–8 hours.
Auli: India’s Ski Capital (For Snow Lovers)
If you can spare a full weekend, Auli promises a truly snowy escape — think cable car rides, ski slopes, and mesmerizing Himalayan peaks.
Why Auli Is Worth the Trip:
- Guaranteed snow in winter
- Skiing & snowboarding
- Calm, clean, and super scenic
- Best Himalayan sunrise views
Travel Time:
10–12 hours drive + cable car (or stay directly in Auli).
Chopta: Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand
Chopta is one of India’s most beautiful winter destinations. Snow blankets the meadows, and the entire region turns into a postcard.
Why Chopta Is a Top Snow Pick:
- Meadows buried in snow
- Great for weekend treks
- Close to Tungnath & Chandrashila
- Perfect for nature lovers
Best For:
Friends, trekkers, and couples who enjoy quiet spaces.
Dhanaulti: Quiet, Cozy & Close to Delhi
If Mussoorie feels too crowded, try nearby Dhanaulti — quieter, cooler, and often covered in snow.
Why Visit Dhanaulti:
- Snowfall in Jan–Feb
- Eco-parks & forest trails
- Quaint resorts with valley views
- Great for couples looking for privacy
Drive Time:
7–8 hours.
Travel Tips for Snowy Weekends Near Delhi
- Start early: Mountain roads get foggy after 3 PM in winter.
- Carry essentials: Thermals, gloves, waterproof shoes, and power banks.
- Book stays in advance: Weekends fill up fast in peak winter.
- Check road conditions: Snowfall can block routes temporarily.
- Prefer 4×4 or chains: For high-altitude areas like Auli or Chopta.
Final Thoughts
Delhi winters can feel gloomy, but just a few hours away lie snowy hill stations waiting to revive your spirits. Whether it’s the fun of Shimla, the calm of Mukteshwar, the adventure of Auli, or the charm of Kufri, these weekend getaways guarantee a refreshing winter break.
Pack your bags, grab your warmest jacket, and let the mountains melt your winter blues away.