Coldest Places in India: The Coolest Destinations with Lowest Temperatures

India is home to some of the coldest regions in the world, ranging from the coldest parts of the Himalayan mountain range to pristine hill stations. What unites these places is their sheer beauty. The geographical diversity of India ensures that there are mixtures of hills where the winter season in these places becomes all the more pleasant. Here we look at the Indian landscape that becomes a winter wonderland when these places record the coldest temperatures in the country. 

1. Dras, Ladakh

Widely regarded as the Gateway to Ladakh, Dras holds the infamous record of being the second coldest inhabited place on our planet. The mercury can reach a near mortal level at minus 50 degrees Celsius (-58 F) during the winter months. The snowcapped mountains surrounding the area provide endless opportunities for adrenaline and history junkies alike.

**Key Things To Do:**

• Dras War Memorial
• Trekking Trails Of Mushkoh Valley
• Tiger Hill

**Ideal Visit Duration:**

• May to September, as these months have a cooler climate.

2. Siachen Glacier

Widely considered as the frozen battleground of the world, the Siachen Glacier is now a combination of a frozen spectacle combined with a harshness ensuring that the temperature frequently drops below -60 centigrade. While the area in question is primarily a military zone, the majestic beauty that the landscape has to offer does manage to garner the interest of many.

**Did You Know?**

• Only impractical tours are undertaken due to how harsh and cold the area is due to its strategically valuable nature.

3. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

The extreme climate of Spiti Valley poses a severe challenge as its temperature often sinks below -30 degrees Celsius during the winter months. Regardless of its hostile weather, the ancient monasteries, serene lakes and barren landscapes turns out to be a breathtaking sight for all the photographers out there. 

 **Key Highlights:**

• Chandratal Lake 
• Tabo Monastery 
• Key Monastery 

 **Best Time to Visit:**

• June to September which is the summer season as it is road accessible.  

4. Lahaul Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Lahaul Valley gets disconnected from the rest of the region during the winter season and is heavily blanketed with snow, leaving temperatures plummeting to an area as low as -30 degrees Celsius. The picturesque views of snowfall during the winters are nothing less than stunning, creating a perfect winter wonderland.  

**Key Highlights:**

• Shashur Monastery 
• Baralacha Pass 
• Suraj Tal Lake 

**Best Time to Visit:**

• July to October.  

5. Leh, Ladakh

Leh is known to possess an amazing cultural diversity along with heart pumping adventures, however due to forecasted minimum temperatures lingering at -25 degrees Celsius during the winters, the weather can be hostile. Regardless of its extreme weather conditions, the captivating landscapes are guaranteed to astound everyone.  

**Key Highlights:**

• Shanti Stupa 
• Pangong Lake 
• Magnetic Hill 

**Best Time to Visit:**

• Around April to October.

6. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang, located in the Northeast part of India, is well known for its cultural significance and breathtaking views. The temperatures here usually dip as low as -15°C with heavy snowfall during the winter season. This region is most famous for its breathtaking monasteries and beautiful lakes.

**Key Sights:**

• Tawang Monastery
• Sela Pass
• Nuranang Waterfall

**Ideal Time to Travel:**

• March to October

7. Kufri, Himachal Pradesh

Kufri is a popular getaway spot for families near Shimla during the winter season. Due to being located high above sea level, it becomes an exciting spot to ski and snowboard with its low temperatures of around -10°C. 

**Key Sights:**

• Kufri Fun World
• Himalayan Nature Park
• Skiing slopes

**Ideal Time to Travel:**

• November to February

8. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

Pouring down in snow during the winter season, this hill station transforms into a ‘Meadow of flowers’ during the warmer months. With constant below zero temperatures, Gulmarg has its own skiing resorts to entertain its global visitors. 

**Key Sights:**

• Gulmarg Gondola
• Apharwat Peak
• Ski resorts

**Ideal Time to Travel:**

• December to March

9. Auli, Uttarakhand

Due to its untarnished slopes that are perfect for skiing, Auli is a famous winter destination, but it is often infamous for the extreme temperature that can drop as low as minus 10 degrees Celsius. However, when viewed from the perspective of Auli, the Nanda Devi range and the oak forests exude beauty. 

**Top Attractions:**

• Auli Artificial Lake
• Skiing and snowboarding
• Joshimath

**Best Time to Visit:**

• November to February.

10. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali, Christmassy temperatures that many hill stations in India have during winter can drop to minus 10 degrees celsius which gives it the perfect skiing snow. Manali boasts of some must see sights such as Rohtang pass, Solang valley, etc.

**Top Attractions:**

• Solang Valley
• Rohtang Pass
• Old Manali

**Best Time to Visit:**

• December to March.

11. Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand

Mukteshwar sits at a height of about 2,285 m and the temperature here during the winters is extremely chilling which can drop to minus 5 degrees Celsius. However, due to the mountains and quite the chill, Mukteshwar is the ideal destination for those who seek tranquility while being surrounded by the beauty of nature.

**Top Attractions:**

• Mukteshwar Temple
• Chauli Ki Jali
• Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls

**Best Time to Visit:**

• October to February.

12. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Mussoorie, the “Queen of Hills,” is a picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand. Nestled at an altitude of about 2,000 meters, it experiences chilly winters with temperatures dropping to near-freezing. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense forests, Mussoorie offers mesmerizing views of the Himalayas. 

**Must-See Places:**

• Kempty Falls 
• Gun Hill
• Mall Road

**Ideal Time to Travel:**

• March to June

Advice for Traveling to Cold Regions

• Apparel: Bring your thermals, thick coats, gloves, and water-proof boots.
• Safety Measures: Bring medication for mountain sickness and drink enough water.
• Local Authorities: Check with local officials regarding the state of roads and climate.
• Leisure Activities: Try to involve in skiing, snowboarding, or trekking to gain the most from your trip.

Also Read – This Winter Experience the Spectacular Snowfall in Mussoorie

Final Thoughts

The cold regions of India are stunning and provide exciting activities for everyone. These places will surely provide you with cherished memories, regardless of whether you are seeking adventure, enjoying nature, or just wanting to relax, as the landscape is covered in snow. So, pack your bags and visit these beautiful places in the winter!