Narkanda is a peaceful hill town sitting at 2,708 meters in Himachal Pradesh. In winter, it becomes a snowy retreat with crisp mountain air and stunning Himalayan views. What draws tourists here is a combination of scenic beauty and skiing opportunities.
Snow blankets the town from December to February. Skiers, snowboarders, and families looking for winter fun all find something to love here. The ski slopes are ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers. Snow treks and snowball fights round out the list of cold-weather fun.
With certified instructors and gear rentals available locally, you can just show up and hit the slopes. Whether you’re chasing adventure or just want to soak in some quiet alpine peace, Narkanda makes winter feel special.
About Narkanda
Narkanda is located around 60 kilometres from Shimla, right on the old Hindustan-Tibet Road (National Highway 5). Thick conifer forests and apple orchards surround this high-elevation part of Himachal Pradesh.
It stands at 2,708 meters above sea level. Summers are cool and mild, while winters are cold with heavy snowfall. From December to February, the landscape turns completely white.
The best time to visit for snow lovers is from mid-December through February. January is the peak season with consistent snowfall. Narkanda is less crowded than places like Manali, so it’s a good pick for travellers who want a quieter, more relaxed winter experience.
Winter in Narkanda
Winter transforms Narkanda into a snow-covered landscape straight out of a postcard. Snowfall usually starts in December and picks up through January, with snow often sticking around well into February.
Temperatures hover around 5 to 8 degrees Celsius during the day. At night, it can fall below minus 5 degrees. The chill in the air, the soft crunch of snow under your boots, and the silence of the forest make this season truly magical.
What sets Narkanda apart is its quiet charm. There are no long ski lift lines or crowded resorts. Instead, you get peaceful snow-covered meadows, alpine trails, and cozy cabins. It’s the perfect setting for anyone who wants to enjoy the season without the stress of packed tourist spots.
Skiing in Narkanda
Narkanda has one of India’s oldest ski slopes and is a fantastic place to try skiing for the first time. The main skiing areas are on the ridge near the town and the slopes below Hatu Peak.
The ski terrain suits all skill levels. Beginners can start on the gentle nursery slopes. For more experienced skiers, there are steeper runs that offer longer descents. The ridge and Hatu Peak region get good snow cover and offer amazing mountain views.
Certified instructors are available, and gear rentals are easy to find near the ski slopes. Whether you’re taking your first ski lesson or looking to practice more advanced moves, Narkanda makes it convenient and affordable. You can book skiing packages by the hour or for the full day.
Other Snow Activities in Narkanda
Even if you’re not into skiing, Narkanda has plenty of snow excitement to offer. Snowboarding is popular here and available on the same slopes. For those who prefer walking through snow rather than sliding on it, there are scenic trekking trails that pass through pine forests and apple orchards.
Families and kids can enjoy snowball fights, build snowmen, or just play in the open snowy fields. The terrain is friendly and accessible, and there’s enough snow to make any winter activity memorable.
Trekking to spots like Tannu Jubbar Lake or walking up to Hatu Peak during light snow is another way to enjoy Narkanda’s natural beauty. You do not need to be a skier to fall in love with the place.
Places to Visit Near Narkanda
There are several beautiful spots near Narkanda that are worth exploring during your stay.
Hatu Peak is the highest point around and offers sweeping views of the Himalayas. It’s about 8 kilometres from Narkanda and can be reached by car or on foot.
Stokes Farm near Thanedhar is one of the oldest apple orchards in the region. It was established by Satyanand Stokes, who introduced apple farming to Himachal Pradesh.
Tannu Jubbar Lake is a quiet, oval-shaped alpine lake surrounded by dense forest. It’s a wonderful spot for snow trekking or a peaceful walk.
Other nearby attractions include Jau Baug meadows and the Mahamaya Temple in Kacheri village. These add variety to your winter trip and offer more ways to experience the landscape.
Where to Stay in Narkanda
Narkanda has a range of places to stay that suit different budgets and travel styles. You’ll find ski lodges, cosy cabins, homestays, and mid-range hotels.
Some well-rated options include Hotel Greenberry, Echor Backwoods Villa, and Tethys Himalaya. Prices generally range from 2,000 to 20,000 rupees per night depending on the season and type of accommodation.
Many ski-focused lodges are located close to the slopes, which is convenient if you plan to ski daily. Homestays offer warm hospitality and home-cooked food, making them great for families and couples looking for a more personal experience.
Book your stay in advance if you’re visiting between December and February, as Narkanda does get busy during snowfall season.
How to Reach Narkanda
Getting to Narkanda is straightforward. If you’re flying in, the nearest airport is in Shimla (Jubbarhatti), about 80 kilometres away. From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Narkanda.
Kalka is the nearest major train station. You can take the scenic toy train to Shimla and then drive or bus the remaining 60 kilometres to Narkanda.
By road, Narkanda is about 60 kilometres from Shimla and around 400 kilometres from Delhi. The drive from Delhi takes 9 to 10 hours via Chandigarh and Shimla. Roads are well-kept but can be slick in snow, so check the weather before leaving.
Also Read: Monsoon 2025 in Himachal Pradesh: Do Not Travel
Narkanda Travel Tips
Pack wisely for your Narkanda trip. You’ll need warm layered clothing including thermal wear, a down or fleece jacket, waterproof gloves, a woolen cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes with good grip.
Bring a basic first-aid kit and keep altitude sickness remedies if you’re sensitive to elevation changes. Keep snacks and water handy, especially if you’re out trekking or skiing for long periods.
Try to arrive in daylight hours since mountain roads can be tricky after dark. Book your ski instructors and packages ahead of time, particularly during the January rush. If you’re driving, be sure your vehicle is winter-ready or hire a local cab.
Listen to local weather advice and give yourself some buffer time in case snowfall causes delays.
Conclusion
If you want a true winter escape that mixes snow adventure with calm Himalayan beauty, Narkanda is the place. With slopes for skiing and snowboarding, trails for snow trekking, and peaceful spots like Hatu Peak and Tannu Jubbar Lake, Narkanda delivers a complete experience.
It’s quieter than Manali or Gulmarg and feels more personal. You don’t need to be an expert skier to enjoy Narkanda. Just being there in the snow is enough to reset your soul.
FAQs
1. When is the best time to visit Narkanda for snow and skiing?
Mid-December to late February is best. January offers the most consistent snow.
2. Is Narkanda suitable for beginner skiers?
Yes. Gentle slopes, instructors, and gear rentals make it ideal for beginners.
3. What kind of snow activities can I enjoy in Narkanda?
Skiing, snowboarding, trekking, snowball fights, and snow play.
4. How can I reach Narkanda from Shimla or Delhi?
From Shimla, it’s a 2 to 3 hour drive. From Delhi, drive or take a train to Kalka, then continue by road.
5. Are there skiing instructors and gear rentals available in Narkanda?
Yes. Rentals and instructors are available during the main season.
6. What is the average snowfall in Narkanda during winter?
Expect around 2 to 5 feet of snow between December and February.
7. What are the best places to stay in Narkanda during winter?
Try Hotel Greenberry, Echor Backwoods Villa, or a local ski lodge.
8. How cold does it get in Narkanda in December and January?
Daytime highs are 5 to 8 degrees Celsius. Nights drop below minus 5.
9. Is it safe to travel to Narkanda in the snow season?
Yes, but check the weather and road conditions before your trip.
10. What other attractions can I explore near Narkanda?
Visit Hatu Peak, Stokes Farm, and Tannu Jubbar Lake.
