Discover Manali in winter with snow adventures, top places to visit, winter sports and travel tips. Plan your perfect Himalayan winter escape today
There’s something magical about Manali in the winter months. This is when the mountains are covered with snow, pine forests are covered with a blanket of snow, and each breath is like a cold whisper of the Himalayas. Manali in winter has it all, be it your dream to make a snowman, sipping hot chocolate over a bonfire, or just having the perfect snowfall. From Solang Valley’s thrilling adventures to Old Manali’s cosy cafés, this hill town turns into a wonderland between December and February. So, if you are planning your next snowy vacation, a Manali tour package is the easiest way to enjoy the best of the winter season.
Manali in Winter Weather
In Manali, winter starts at the end of November and continues until the first months of March. This is when mountains are covered with snow, snowy winds occur, and the landscape is perfect on the postcard. The months of December, January and February are the most appropriate months to see snow and feel the spirit of winter. During this time, temperatures range between -1°C and 10°C, with even lower temperatures at night. The coldest month is January, during which Manali is covered with heavy snow. The month of February is one of the best time to visit Himachal and offers clear skies. Manali in winter season is perfect for skiing, snowboarding and cosy nights by the fire.
Best winter months: December to February
Average temperature: -1°C to 10°C
Snowfall starts: Mid to late December
Peak snow season: January
Best Time to Experience Winter in Manali
If you’re dreaming of snowflakes along with adventure, the best time to visit Manali in winter is between December and February. This is when the town transforms into a white wonderland and is absolutely perfect for skiing, snow fights, as well as honeymoon getaways. December marks the beginning of snowfall. This makes Christmas and New Year extra special. January is the snowiest month. This month is thus ideal for winter sports as well as scenic photography. By February, the weather becomes clearer. Roads become more accessible, and you can enjoy snow as well as sunshine.
Top Places to Visit in Manali in Winter
From snow-laden valleys to ancient temples, winter transforms Manali into a white paradise. Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Himachal Pradesh when Manali is at its magical best.
1. Solang Valley
A winter trip to Manali is incomplete without visiting Solang Valley, the hub of snow sports. From skiing and snowboarding to snowmobiling, the valley turns into a paradise for adventure seekers in winter. The scenic view of the Pir Panjal range covered with snow and the frozen Beas River is heaven for photographers. Adventure seekers can also try paragliding if the weather permits.
Location: 13 km from Manali town
Timings: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (activity charges apply)
2. Rohtang Pass
Perched at over 13,000 feet above sea level, Rohtang Pass is among Himachal's most breathtaking winter views. Covered with thick snowfall from December to March, tourists flock here with mountain scenery views and adventure sports. Even though it remains closed for motor traffic during the heavy winter due to heavy snow, nearby locations like Gulaba offer similar snowy experiences and beautiful photography spots.
Location: 51 km from Manali
Timings: Open seasonally (weather-dependent)
Entry Fee: ₹500 permit for vehicles (when open)
3. Old Manali
Winter adds a mystical, peaceful ambience to Old Manali with snow-kissed cafes, apple orchards and quaint wooden cottages. It's the ideal place to hang out around blazing bonfires, sip local Himachali tea and find quirky cafes offering global cuisine. The frozen Manalsu River and peaceful village trails make it just right for travellers looking to relax and soak in authentic mountain living.
Location: 3 km from Manali Mall Road
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
4. Hidimba Devi Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Hidimba, this ancient temple seems even more enchanting in winter with snow covering its cedar surroundings. Designed in 1553, the wooden temple and peaceful atmosphere are a divine blend of nature and faith. A must-visit for the devout and shutterbugs alike, preferably during dawn when the temple compound is quiet and enveloped in mist.
Location: Old Manali Road
Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Manali Mall Road
Manali's Mall Road turns all the more homely in winter — lined with shops that retail woollens, hot momo restaurants and street stalls crowded with tourists. It's perfect to take evening strolls after a day of snow play. You can buy souvenirs like Kullu shawls, handmade jewellery or enjoy a warm meal while looking out at the snow-capped mountains.
Location: Central Manali
Timings: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do in Manali in Winter
Manali in winter is all about adventure, serenity and snow-kissed memories. Check out the most exciting things to do in Himachal Pradesh for a truly unforgettable winter escape.
1. Experience Winter Sports in Manali
When snow carpets the valleys, adventure seekers flock to Solang and Gulaba for some of the best winter sports in Manali. Skiing and snowboarding, or snow tubing, the cool mountain air enhances every moment of it. The months of December to February are perfect for beginners and professionals alike. Locals offer equipment and lessons, so it is a safe and enjoyable experience amidst snow-covered mountains and icy gusts.
2. Try Paragliding in Manali in Winter
If you dare to soar over white spaces, winter paragliding in Manali is fairytale stuff. Solang Valley offers tandem flights where you get to soar above shining snow fields and pine groves. Although it also involves weather, it is largely clear winter mornings that present optimum flying windows. The juxtaposition of adrenaline and scenery makes it an experience of a lifetime that's as breathtaking as the churning, freezing winds rushing past your face.
3. Go on a Winter Trek in Manali
For all those nature lovers, a winter trek in Manali is an ultimate dream. Trails like Lama Dugh, Bijli Mahadev and Prashar Lake are serene white trails in December and January. Trekking through serene forests, snow-covered streams, and meadows gives you a true flavour of the Himalayan winter. With local guides and low-profile groups, you can venture on trails that provide equal measures of adventure and picturesque vistas in a safe manner.
4. Shop at the Manali Market in Winter
Even when wrapped in snow, the Manali market in winter stays lively and full of colour. Mall Road and Tibetan Market are the best places for shopping in Manali for woollens, handmade items and Himachali oils with fragrances. Catching a glimpse of snow-covered stalls, steaming momos, and vibrant souvenirs makes it a warm outing. It's also a good place to mingle with the locals and sip a cup of hot tea as snow falls all around you.
5. Relax in Hot Springs at Vashisht Temple
After a long, cold day out in the cold, nothing can replace soaking in the hot natural springs of Vashisht Temple. Such sulphur pools are believed to possess medicinal properties and give instant relief from the cold. Relaxing in warm water amidst snow-covered hills is a surreal experience that only Manali in winter can provide. It's one of the best things to do in Manali in Winter to relax your muscles after trekking or roaming around town.
6. Enjoy Café Hopping in Snowy Old Manali
If you’re wondering what to do in Manali during winter, café hopping in Old Manali should top your list. Cosy cafés like Café 1947 and Drifters’ Inn & Café serve up steaming coffee, live music and mountain views dusted with snow. The vibe is laid-back, the food is comforting, and the ambience feels like a warm hug against the cold outside - perfect for lazy afternoons and long conversations.
What to Pack for Manali in Winter
Manali in winter can get extremely cold, so packing the right clothes as well as winter essentials is really important. Here’s a quick guide on what to wear in Manali in winter to stay warm and comfortable.
Thermal inners and fleece pullovers
Heavy jackets and woollen sweaters
Gloves, mufflers and woollen caps
Waterproof shoes or snow boots
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Lip balm and moisturiser
Small backpack for essentials
Conclusion
Winter makes Manali a snow-covered heaven, perfect in terms of adventure, sightseeing and warm moments. Be it the excitement of enjoying winter sports in Manali or the sightseeing of the pretty streets and peaceful temples, the town has everything to offer to the traveller. Manali in winter is thus the most beautiful experience overall. So, plan your trip, pack your bags and select the best Manali Tour Package to have an unforgettable Himalayan adventure that stays with you for a lifetime.
