Snowfall Places in North East India
Snowfall in North East India offers a rare winter experience in high-altitude regions of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, where winter turns places like Tawang, Bomdila, Dirang, Lachen, and Lachung into snow-covered landscapes. As temperatures drop between December and February, mountain passes such as Sela Pass and Nathula Pass receive heavy snowfall, while alpine lakes like Gurudongmar Lake and Tsomgo Lake freeze partially under icy conditions. Monasteries in Tawang, Pelling, and Mechuka, forest trails around Yumthang Valley, and remote villages near the Indo-China border gradually disappear beneath fresh layers of snow, offering a winter experience far quieter than mainstream Himalayan destinations.From dramatic high-altitude passes to peaceful mountain villages, winter in the North East offers experiences that are both scenic and soulful. Snow-draped prayer flags, frozen rivers, icy lakes, and snow-covered forests create postcard-perfect views at every turn. Be it watching snowfall near Gurudongmar Lake or waking up in the snow-covered village of Lachen, each moment will feel unforgettable. Visit famous places like Tawang, Bomdila, and Dirang, or go for fun adventures like trekking at Lachung. Cross high mountain passes, meditate in the monasteries of Pelling and Mechuka, and enjoy warm local delicacies of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim during your stay here.
If you love winter landscapes but prefer offbeat destinations over tourist-heavy spots, North East India is where you should go this season. Explore snowfall destinations that promise adventure, serenity, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas with Thrillophilia’s North East tour packages.
Best Places to Experience Snowfall in North East India
- Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh – Heavy winter snowfall blankets the town, monasteries, and surrounding mountain slopes between December and February.
- Lachen, North Sikkim – A high-altitude village that regularly receives snowfall, turning the entire settlement into a white winter landscape.
- Lachung, North Sikkim – Known for snowy village streets and winter access to Yumthang Valley, ideal for extended snow stays.
- Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh – Experiences light to moderate snowfall with snow-covered viewpoints and monastery surroundings.
- Mechuka, Arunachal Pradesh – Snowfall transforms this remote town into a quiet alpine destination with frozen rivers and open valleys.
Snowfall at Mountain Passes in North East India
- Sela Pass, Arunachal Pradesh – One of the most snow-prone passes in the region, often closed temporarily due to heavy snowfall.
- Nathula Pass, Sikkim – Receives intense snowfall during winter, offering dramatic snow views near the Indo-China border.
- Thangu Pass, North Sikkim – Snowfall here creates extreme winter conditions and stunning high-altitude scenery.
- Zuluk Pass, East Sikkim – Known for winding roads that turn icy and snow-covered during peak winter months.
Snow-Covered Valleys & Lakes in North East India
- Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim – Covered in thick snow during winter, with frozen streams and snow-filled meadows.
- Gurudongmar Lake, North Sikkim – Partially freezes in winter, surrounded by snow-laden peaks at over 17,000 feet.
- Tsomgo Lake, East Sikkim – Often frozen under a layer of ice and snow, making it one of the most accessible snow spots near Gangtok.
- Dirang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh – Experiences winter snowfall with snow-lined riverbanks and village landscapes.
Snowfall at Monasteries & Cultural Sites
- Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh – Snowfall enhances the serene setting of India’s largest Buddhist monastery.
- Pemayangtse Monastery, Pelling – Winter snow adds a dramatic backdrop with clear views of the Kanchenjunga range.
- Mechuka Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh – Snow-covered surroundings create a peaceful winter atmosphere.
- Bomdila Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh – Light snowfall frames the monastery against Himalayan ridges.
Winter Activities in Snowfall Destinations
- Village Snow Walks in Lachen – Easy walks through snow-covered lanes and frozen fields.
- Snow Exploration in Lachung – Short winter walks near waterfalls and village outskirts after snowfall.
- Winter Drives to Sela Pass – Scenic yet weather-dependent journeys through snow corridors.
- Photography at Gurudongmar Lake – Snow, ice, and high-altitude light create striking winter frames.
