Would you believe you would wake up in the morning in South India to find a blanket of snow? It seems unbelievable, right? But it is real! Snowfall is not common in South India, but when it does occur, it can be a dream come true, especially in the small hill village of Lambasingi, in Andhra Pradesh.
The whole of South India is covered by warm and tropical landscapes, and despite this, this small village makes snowfall in South India possible and gets covered in fog during winter, and it becomes a hazy, enchanted realm. This is a secret treasure trove that should be included in your list if you always desire to view snow without necessarily visiting the Himalayas. This guide will reveal all the necessary information on how you can enjoy snow in South India.
Why There Is No Snowfall in South India
Before we see why there is snowfall at Lambasingi, let’s come and understand why most of South India does not get snow. South India lies near the equator, and thus it hardly ever reaches freezing temperatures. Snow is highly improbable because of the warm and damp climate and the low hills. The Western and Eastern Ghats are cool but never cold enough to form any snow.
There is also a thin layer of frost, mist and near-freezing temperatures in some hill areas such as Lambasingi and occasionally in Munnar or Ooty. That has the impression of snow falling. Actually, snow is never a common occurrence, but the South Indian winter is enchanted in its own magical way!
Lambasingi: The Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh
Lambasingi is a beautiful and tiny hill station in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, hidden deep in the forest that does not feel at all like the South. It is located approximately 1,000 metres high above sea level and is surrounded by forests, coffee and pepper farms and mist-filled hills.
Lambasingi is really the Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh, as this is the only location which receives snowfall in South India and where frost and a near-zero temperature can be experienced during winter. Although it is gaining in popularity, Lambasingi remains as simple as ever: there are no high-ranking resorts, no gaggers, only busy crowds, birds whispering in the treetops, and a brown aroma of wood smoke.
Important Details of Lambasingi
Location: Visakhapatnam Dist in Andhra Pradesh.
Altitude: It is approximately 1,000 metres above sea level.
Closest city: Visakhapatnam, which is 100 km.
Best Time to Visit: December-January.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Lambasingi Snowfall Time
The snowfall in Lambasingi mostly occurs between December and January; however, November is also cold. The lowest temperatures are between the end of December and mid-January, when it almost freezes.
When you come in the principal month of snow (in January), you may find a thin coat of white on the roofs and on trees, which only a few South Indian places have. Hence, this small village is recognised as the destination of those who want to experience snow in South India without having to visit the Himalayas.
Lambasingi Temperature in Winter
The winter season is a huge tourist attraction to Lambasingi, particularly since the weather is considerably colder compared to the rest of Andhra Pradesh. During such weather, the temperature may reduce to as low as 0°C and even below the threshold of freezing during the early morning in December and January. Through the day, it is chilly and comfortable, 10-14°C. It is very cold at night, and the visitor has to be close to bonfires or consume hot local coffee. Tourists are advised to carry warm attire, as the day and night disparity is huge.
What Makes the Lambasingi Snowfall Month So Special
Lambasingi in winter not only makes snowfall in South India possible, but it is a memory in itself because of the little things that make it so memorable.
First, the visual effect. The entire space becomes a dream. The lofty eucalypts fade away into clouds, mountain slopes are hidden in fog, and the early sun shines through the mist and gives golden glitter to frozen grass. All the photos resemble paintings, and every moment is unreal.
Secondly, its quietness. Lambasingi is not yet overwhelmed by large masses of tourists like other popular hill stations, like Ooty or Kodaikanal. Noise, technology and the tempo of everyday life could be turned off here, and you could concentrate on yourself.
Then there's the adventure. Trekking and explorers are able to walk on forest trails, cross the rolling hills, and view great scenic views that give rewards to early risers. Even photographers, birdwatchers and bikers visit this place during the cold months.
Lastly, the winter in Lambasingi is very romantic. People stroll hand in hand on the foggy paths, families sit at campfires, and the solo travellers get inspired by the serenity. It is the spot that not only appears attractive but also endears the heart.
Other Cold Places to Visit in South India
Although Lambasingi receives the highest part of the snow, other hill stations allow you to have a taste of the mist, cold air, and mountain flavour, which is very suitable during winter holidays.
1. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is one of the best hill stations in South India and a delight for nature lovers. Its hazy mountains and rolling tea gardens, as well as cool air, make winter highly special. The temperature drops to approximately 5°C in December and January, and even a snow-like frost forms over the tea leaves.
Things to do: Go to the Eravikulam National Park, the Tea Museum and the Top Station View Point.
2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty, also known as the Queen of Hill Stations, is a singularly popular winter resort in South India. Ooty is not one of the places that receives snowfall in South India, but it is an excellent place in the winter because of its cool climate, old colonial homes and the Nilgiri Mountain Toy Train. Its lack of snow is compensated for with cold, foggy mornings and warm evenings in front of a fireplace, which are heavenly.
Things to do: Visit Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak and the botanical gardens.
3. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal has cold breezes, foggy forests and silent lakes that resemble a winter fairy tale, at an altitude of approximately 2,000 metres. During winter, the temperature can reach as low as 4°C, and the valleys are blanketed with fog.
Things to do: Boating in Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker Walk, Pillar Rocks.
4. Coorg, Karnataka
It is also known as the Scotland of India; Coorg is a nice place to spend a winter with foggy mountains, coffee fields and discreet houses all around. Coffee lovers would love winter mornings, and the mood of occasional fog helps to create a romantic impression.
Things to do: Go to Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Raja Seat.
5. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Near Lambasingi, Araku Valley is a serene hill station having cool and misty weather. It is one of the best winter destinations in South India due to green valleys, waterfalls, tribal culture, etc.
Things to do: Borra Caves, Katiki Waterfalls and Coffee Museum.
How to Reach:
By Air: Visakhapatnam International Airport, 107 km away, is the nearest one.
By Train: Anakapalle railway station, which is at a distance of 72 km.
By Road: Vezhāka and Chintapalle are serviced by ordinary buses/taxis.
Tips for Travelling in Winter
If you wish to experience snowfall in South India, it’s necessary that you know the tips to make your trip hassle-free and much more enjoyable.
It can be as cold as freezing. Pack base layers and jackets to keep yourself warm.
Stay Overnight. All you need is to book a homestay in order to experience village life.
Wake up early. The frost should be observed in the early mornings.
Drive carefully. The dew and the mist render the road wet.
Carry water, snacks and a first aid kit in remote locations.
Conclusion
The concept of snowfall in South Indian states is like a dream, yet Lambasingi makes it come true. Do you wish for some frost, foggy mornings or a warm fire? This tiny village will bring snowfall in South India. In addition to Lambasingi, there are other hill stations, Munnar, Ooty, and Coorg, which also come with their chilly winter. Head south this winter. The mountains tell about snow, serenity and loveliness. Pack your jackets and book your trip to Lambasingi in winter.
