If you’re planning a winter vacation in Uttarakhand, two destinations that promise magical landscapes and guaranteed snow are Auli and Chopta. Known for their pristine beauty, snow-covered slopes, trekking trails, and Himalayan views, these destinations attract thousands of travelers between December and March every year.
This guide covers the best time to visit Auli & Chopta for snowfall, weather conditions, what to expect each month, and travel tips for 2026.
📌 Why Auli and Chopta Are the Best Winter Destinations in Uttarakhand?
Both Auli and Chopta are known for:
- Consistent winter snowfall
- Panoramic Himalaya views (Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba)
- Skiing (Auli) and snow trekking (Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila)
- Peaceful, uncrowded natural surroundings
- Ideal weather for winter sports, photography, and adventure
If you’re searching for snowfall in Uttarakhand, Auli and Chopta are the top two places to experience it.
❄ Best Time to Visit Auli for Snowfall: December to March
Auli is one of the most dependable places in India for winter snow. Here’s the month-wise breakdown:
👉 December: Start of Snowfall Season
- Temperature: 2°C to –4°C
- Expected snow: Light to moderate
- Perfect for: Early winter travel, Christmas trips
- Note: Ski slopes start forming
Why choose December?
Fresh snow, fewer crowds, and clear Himalayan views.
👉 January: Heavy Snowfall & Peak Winter
- Temperature: 0°C to –8°C
- Heavy snowfall is common
- Skiing season begins officially
- Roads may face temporary closures due to snowstorms
Best month for guaranteed snow lovers.
👉 February: Stable Snow & Best Views
- Temperature: 3°C to –5°C
- Snow cover remains thick
- Weather becomes slightly stable
- Great for skiing & sightseeing
Ideal for travelers wanting snow with better road accessibility.
👉 March: End of Snow Season
- Temperature: 5°C to –2°C
- Snow still present at higher slopes
- Pleasant days, cold nights
Perfect for families and non-adventure travelers.
❄ Best Time to Visit Chopta for Snowfall: December to February
Chopta, also known as the Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand, receives heavy snowfall every winter. This is also the starting point of the famous Tungnath–Chandrashila snow trek.
👉 December: Light Snow, Clear Trails
- Temperature: 5°C to –3°C
- Great for beginners & first-time snow tourists
👉 January: Peak Snowfall & Frozen Trails
- Temperature: 2°C to –8°C
- Trek to Tungnath becomes fully snow-covered
- Requires winter gear & local guide
Best for adventure seekers & photographers.
👉 February: Snow + Sunny Weather = Perfect Trekking Month
- Temperature: 4°C to –4°C
- Snow remains thick
- Weather becomes stable
Best month for Chandrashila summit lovers.
📌 Auli vs. Chopta – Where Is Snowfall Better?
| Feature | Auli | Chopta |
|---|---|---|
| Snow Reliability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Best for | Skiing, snow activities | Snow trekking, nature |
| Accessibility | Easy (ropeway + road) | Moderate (steep winter roads) |
| Views | Nanda Devi, Trishul | Chaukhamba, Kedarnath peaks |
If you want skiing → Choose Auli
If you want trekking → Choose Chopta
🌨 Weather & Travel Tips for Snowfall Trips
- Carry proper winter gear – heavy jackets, gloves, thermals
- Wear trekking shoes (essential for Chopta)
- Keep buffer travel time (snowfall may block roads)
- Book hotels in advance for December–February
- Prefer local drivers experienced in snow roads
- Check weather alerts before the Tungnath trek
🔥 Best Time for Auli & Chopta in 2026
The snowfall season for 2025–2026 is expected to be normal to heavy due to winter weather cycles.
Recommended travel months for 2026:
- Auli: 25 December 2025 – 10 March 2026
- Chopta: 20 December 2025 – 25 February 2026
Plan your trip accordingly for maximum snow enjoyment.
✨ Final Verdict: When Should You Visit for Snow?
| Destination | Best Snowfall Month |
|---|---|
| Auli | January & February |
| Chopta | January |
| Budget Travel | December |
| Family-Friendly Trip | March (Auli) |
| Adventure Lovers | January (Chopta Trek) |
