I still remember the moment I opened my phone and typed, “Which is the best snowfall month in Manali?” I was sitting in my room, watching snow videos on YouTube, and imagining myself walking in soft white snow. I wanted to touch it, feel it on my face, and see everything around me turn white. That dream pushed me to plan this trip.
But I also knew one thing. If I visited in the wrong month, I would only see dry hills, cold air, and no snow at all. That fear stayed in my mind during the entire planning.
In mid-January, I finally travelled to Manali. The moment I reached, I saw thick snow on the roads, rooftops, trees, and even on parked cars. I slipped on fresh snow twice and laughed like a child. People around me smiled, and some helped me get up. It was the perfect time to visit.
That trip taught me everything I needed to know about snow in Manali. I did not just watch it from a distance. I walked in it, played in it, and lived those moments. This guide is based on that real experience.
In the next sections, I will share everything you need to know. You will find out which month gets the heaviest snowfall in Manali. I will also tell you how the weather feels at that time. You will get tips to plan your trip well and avoid common mistakes. I have written every line honestly and in very simple words.
If you are planning a snow trip to Manali, this article will help you go at the right time and enjoy it even more than I did.
Overview – Snowfall Season in Manali
The snowfall month in Manali is the most exciting time for any traveler. Everyone dreams of walking on snow-covered roads, seeing white trees, and feeling snowflakes land softly on their jackets. But the real question is: When does snowfall happen in Manali?
Let me break it down based on my own winter visit and local updates I collected while staying in Old Manali. This is not copied info. This is what I saw, felt, and lived.
When Does the Snowfall Season in Manali Begin and End?
- Snow season starts: Light snow usually begins in the last week of November.
- Peak snowfall: December, January, and early February.
- Snow ends: By the second or third week of March, most fresh snow stops.
Some upper areas like Gulaba, Sissu, and the Atal Tunnel North Portal get snow even before Manali town. In November, you may need to go higher to touch snow. By mid-January, snow comes down to the main town.
I still remember my day in mid-January. Snow was falling nonstop for hours. Roads, rooftops, and even cafe benches turned white.
What Is the Peak Snowfall Month in Manali?
The heaviest snowfall month in Manali is January.
Why January?
- It is the coldest month of the year.
- Snow falls more frequently and stays longer.
- Places like Solang, Old Manali, and Mall Road get thick snow.
- Even the nearby pine forests look straight out of a postcard.
If you want to play in the snow, make snowmen, or take those white winter selfies, plan for early to mid-January. But also prepare for roadblocks and freezing nights.
Snowfall in Manali is not just a view. It is a full feeling – soft snow under your shoes, fog in the air, and hot tea in your hand. January gives you all of it.
Month-by-Month Breakdown of Snowfall Months in Manali
December – Start of the Snowfall Season in Manali
December is when the snowfall month in Manali truly begins. The first snow usually arrives in the second week.
- Lower areas like Manali town get light snow.
- Higher spots like Gulaba, Solang, and Sissu receive heavier snowfall.
- Roads stay open in early December but might close by the end.
During my December visit a few years ago, I saw white-capped trees and people in snow jackets. The chill was sharp but enjoyable. It felt like winter had just entered the town.
If you visit in December:
- Go after 10 December for higher chances of snow.
- Keep buffer days in case roads close due to snow.
January – Coldest and Snowiest Month in Manali
This is the peak snowfall month in Manali. Everything looks white — from rooftops to roads.
- Snowfall is regular and thick in January.
- Solang, Gulaba, Atal Tunnel, and Sissu are fully covered.
- Even Manali Mall Road gets snow layers.
During my mid-January trip, I saw snow falling slowly all around. It was the kind that stays, not just a light touch but a thick layer. I remember slipping near Hidimba Temple, laughing, and making a mini snowman with strangers.
Why January is the best:
- High chance of fresh snowfall.
- Great time for snow activities.
- Perfect snowy backgrounds for photos.
Carry snow boots, warm gloves, and a waterproof jacket. And yes, always check road updates before you leave your hotel.
February – Balanced Weather With Snow
February still sees good snowfall in Manali, especially in the first half of the month.
- Snow is already settled, so the roads look dreamy.
- The weather becomes more stable, with less wind and more sunny days.
- Great for those who want snow with fewer crowds.
In February, you may not always get fresh snowfall, but the snow remains thick. You can walk, play, and enjoy snow activities without extreme cold.
March – Can You Still See Snow?
March is a tricky month.
- Snow starts melting in Manali town.
- Higher areas like Sissu and the Atal Tunnel still have snow.
- Fresh snowfall is rare but not impossible.
If you plan for March, go in the first 10 days. After that, it becomes a mix of snow patches and slushy roads.
It is not the best month for snow lovers, but still better than monsoon or summer.
Manali Snowfall Time 2025 – Best Dates & Heaviest Snowfall Weeks Explained
If you are planning your Manali trip in 2025 and want to catch real snowfall, this section will guide you well. It covers the latest snow forecasts, the snowiest weeks, and how snowfall timing changes each year. I have mixed real data with my personal travel experience, so you can plan with clarity. From the first flakes to the deepest snow week, everything you need is right here.
❄️ Expected Snowfall Dates This Winter
If you want to enjoy fresh snow in Manali, your timing must be right. Usually, the snowfall season begins in the last week of December, but the real snowy charm arrives around 10 January and continues till mid-February.
During my January trip, I was sitting in a café in Old Manali, sipping hot tea. Outside, snowflakes slowly covered the stairs and cars. That moment felt like magic — peaceful, cold, and beautiful. If you want to catch snowfall like that, here is a helpful timeline:
- First snowfall: Usually between 20–25 December
- Regular snow: Begins in early January
- Peak snowfall: Between 10 January and 20 February
Avoid guessing or picking random dates. If you want snow, you can walk and play in, snow between 10 January and 15 February.
🌨️ Which Week During the Snowfall Month in Manali Gets the Heaviest Snow?
The third week of February is often the snowiest time in Manali. That week gives you the deepest snow, perfect for snow walks, snowball fights, and snowy photos.
Here is what weather history shows:
- January brings about 44 cm of snow per week.
- February brings about 51 cm per week — the highest average.
I was in Manali during that exact week last year. Snow had covered rooftops, cars, and trees. My boots sank into the soft snow. The hotel balcony looked like a white cake top. Locals were clearing snow from their shop fronts using wooden boards. It did not feel like a trip — it felt like living inside a snow globe.
If thick snow is your dream, plan for the third week of February. That is the safest bet.
🔁 Year-to-Year Snow Variations in Manali
Snowfall in Manali is never the same every year. Sometimes it begins early, sometimes it is late. You must be ready for small changes.
Here is what I have noticed over the years:
- One December, I saw only thin snow on the benches and trees.
- The next year, same week, I woke up to six inches of snow outside.
But there is still a clear pattern:
- Early snow (rare): Late November (only in high-altitude areas)
- Peak snowfall: January to mid-February
- Late snow: End of February (snow melts faster)
If you are planning, stay flexible and check weather updates before your travel. Also, keep one buffer day in case snow blocks roads or delays transport.
Recent Snow Trends and Climate Shifts
Over the last few years, snowfall in Manali has seen variations. Some winters brought early snow in late November, while others stayed dry until January. Climate change and Western Disturbance patterns affect snow dates and quantity.
Notably:
- 2022–2023: Snow began around 27 December
- 2023–2024: Delayed snow, started 5 January
- 2024–2025 (expected): Forecast suggests normal snowfall cycle
So, check 10-day forecasts before planning, and follow local weather bulletins for real-time updates.
✅ Quick Summary Table
| Phase | Dates | Tips |
| First Snowfall | 20–25 December | Great for early winter vibes |
| Heaviest Snow | 3rd Week of February | Best week for deep snow adventures |
| Snow Ends | Mid to late February | Still snow left, but starts melting |
Let me know if you want this converted into an infographic or need image ideas for this section!
Best Month to Experience Snowfall in Manali
Choosing the right time matters if you want to enjoy real snow in Manali. Some months are better for families, while others are perfect for snow games and skiing. This section will help you pick the best month based on your travel style, comfort, and snow goals.
👨👩👧👦 For Families, Couples & First‑Timers
Families, couples, and first‑timers feel safest between mid‑January and mid‑February. The snow is thick, but the town atmosphere remains calm. Shops stay open. Cafes serve hot tea. Parents can walk their children on snowy roads. Couples find romantic snowy views near Hidimba Temple and Solang Valley. I took my sister there in January, and she loved every moment. It felt magical without being harsh.
New visitors find the cold crisp, but manageable, with layers. Stay near Mall Road for easy access. Choose cozy hotels with blankets and heaters. Explore small trails before hitting steep slopes. Those days feel joyous without steep travel.
⛷️Best Month for Snow Activities (Skiing, Trekking, Snowplay)
Skiing, trek trips, and snow play all peak in January and early February.
This is when snow stays stable on slopes and valley paths. I tried skiing near Solang in late January. The instructors said it was last season’s best window. You can also trek to Rahala Falls with snow lining the trail. Snowball fights, snowman builds, and toboggan rides all feel perfect in this month.
Adventure seekers enjoy festivals and weekend events. Book activity slots early, as guides fill fast. Bring warm boots and waterproof gloves. That will let you play freely without cold hands or wet feet. For a month-by-month snow breakdown and early vs late snowfall comparison, see the best time to see snowfall in Manali.
🛣️ When Do Roads Like Rohtang & Atal Tunnel Open/Close?
Road access matters a lot during winter.
- Rohtang Pass usually opens by early January, but closure after fresh snow is common.
- Atal Tunnel stays open year‑round and remains the safest route.
- For Solang Valley and Gulaba, roads remain open even on heavy snow days.
During my visit, I checked road updates daily. A fresh snowstorm closed Rohtang once. But the Atal Tunnel remained open and allowed me to continue. I recommend staying near Manali town for safety. Always check local road reports before scheduling your plans. Carry a walking stick and thick socks for snowy paths.
Tips:
- Keep one buffer day for travel beyond Manali
- Start your trips to Sissu or Lahaul early in the morning
- Always carry dry snacks and a thermos of hot tea
Weather During Snowfall Month in Manali
Manali Weather in December
December feels like the doorway to winter. The cold starts setting in from the first week. Early December stays dry, but by mid-month, the wind gets sharper, and snowfall chances rise.
- Daytime temperatures: 5°C to 10°C
- Night temperatures: -1°C to 3°C
- Snow chances: Begin after 15 December, mostly in upper regions
When I visited in mid-December, the town looked sleepy but festive. Locals wore thick sweaters. The streets were quiet in the mornings and lively by noon. I remember sipping soup at Mall Road while light snowflakes fell around me. It was calm, cold, and beautiful.
If you plan to come in December:
- Pack warm woolens, mufflers, and caps
- Snow boots are optional early in the month, but a must after mid-December
- Days are short, so plan activities before 4:30 PM
Manali Weather in January
January is the coldest and snowiest month in Manali. Snow blankets the town and stays for days. The air feels crisp. Every rooftop, road, and hill looks like a postcard.
- Daytime temperatures: 0°C to 7°C
- Night temperatures: -6°C to 1°C
- Snow chances: Very high throughout the month
During my January visit, I woke up to snow outside my window almost every day. It felt like a snow world. Even the trees looked frozen in time. Walking around in the cold was fun with the right gear.
January tips:
- Wear thermal layers under your clothes
- Use waterproof shoes and gloves
- Book a heated stay near Mall Road or Old Manali
Manali Weather in February & March
February starts cold but ends softer. Snow remains, especially in the first two weeks. March brings sunshine and melting paths. Some snow stays in high areas, but town streets start clearing.
- February daytime: 4°C to 10°C
- February nights: -3°C to 2°C
- March daytime: 8°C to 14°C
- March nights: 0°C to 5°C
If you travel in early February, you still get thick snow and fewer tourists. In March, you get a mix — slushy roads, light jackets, and snow far in the distance.
Plan wisely:
- February is great for snow fun, with better weather
- March works for sightseeing with a light snow backdrop
- Avoid late March if snow is your main goal
Off-Season Snow Advice – Can You See Snow After March?
While Manali’s town area sees snowfall mainly between late December and February, many travelers ask: “Can we see snow in April or May?” The short answer is – not in Manali town. From April to early November, there is usually no snow in town. However, if you still wish to touch snow during these months, you can head to higher-altitude areas like:
- Rohtang Pass (if open)
- Atal Tunnel side (Sissu, Lahaul)
- Baralacha La or Koksar (via Manali-Leh Highway)
These places often hold old snow deposits even in May. But prepare for longer drives, weather delays, and sudden roadblocks. Do not expect live snowfall – only old snow or snow patches. If you are curious about how Manali looks in late spring, this snow in May Manali guide shows real experiences from April and early May.
| Month | Day Temp (°C) | Night Temp (°C) | Snowfall Chances | Travel Comfort | Notes |
| December | 5 – 10 | -1 – 3 | 🌨️ Medium | 😊 Moderate | Snow starts mid-month in the upper areas |
| January | 0 – 7 | -6 – 1 | ❄️ Very High | 😬 Coldest | Best month for snow lovers |
| February | 4 – 10 | -3 – 2 | ❄️ High | 🙂 Better | Thick snow in the early weeks |
| March | 8 – 14 | 0 – 5 | 🌦️ Low | 😌 Comfortable | Snow only in the upper zones |
Adventure Activities to Try During the Snowfall Month in Manali
Manali is not just about snow views. For adventure seekers, January and February open up thrilling snow sports:
- Skiing and Snowboarding (Solang Valley has rental shops and instructors)
- Snowmobile Rides (across frozen fields near Solang and Sissu)
- Tube Sledding and Tobogganing
- Snow Trekking (try Lamadugh or Hampta edge treks)
- Ice Climbing and Winter Camping (with guided packages)
Always book activities with certified local guides. Wear proper gear and check weather alerts in advance. For full details on what to do after snowfall, check out these top winter activities in Manali that mix fun, thrill, and scenic beauty.
Worst Time to Visit Manali for Snow (Avoid These Months)
Not every month in Manali is snow-friendly. Some seasons may look cold but offer no snow. Others can turn risky due to rain and roadblocks. If snow is your main reason to visit, try to avoid the months below.
🌧️ Monsoon Months and Landslide Risks
July, August, and early September bring heavy rain to Himachal Pradesh. These months are dangerous for snow trips and not meant for mountain travel at all.
- Landslides are common, especially on narrow roads like the Mandi-Kullu highway.
- Rain makes roads slippery, foggy, and unsafe.
- There is zero snowfall in these months — just wet roads and traffic blocks.
Even the beauty of the hills gets covered in clouds. I once had to cancel a trip in August due to back-to-back landslide alerts. Trust me, no views or snow are worth that risk.
🌫️ Early October and Late March – Uncertain Conditions
October may feel cool, but it brings no real snow. Most slopes stay dry. Town areas feel pleasant, but snow activities are closed.
Late March is also confusing. Snow begins to melt fast. Roads turn slushy, and snow patches vanish by afternoon. You might see white in high zones like Sissu or Rohtang, but town areas are almost dry.
If you are lucky, fresh snow might fall in early October or late March — but do not count on it.
Tip: If snow is your goal, stick to the mid-January to mid-February window. That way, you avoid both rain risks and snow disappointments.
Live Snowfall in Manali – Where to Check?
Reliable Live Weather Sources
Before packing your bags, always check live snowfall updates. Do not depend on random photos or old blogs.
Here are the most reliable sources:
- Snow-Forecast.com – Best for detailed snow depth and snowfall predictions.
- AccuWeather Manali – Shows hourly snow and weather forecasts.
- Windy.com – Great for visual maps of snowfall, wind, and temperature.
- Google Weather – Type “Manali snowfall today” in Google and see live weather cards.
Bookmark these sites before your trip. Check them at night before you sleep and again before heading out.
Today’s Snowfall Reports
Want to know if it is snowing in Manali right now?
Here is how to check:
- Search “Manali snowfall today” on YouTube. Local vloggers often post real-time videos.
- Follow Instagram stories from local cafes, hotels, or tourism pages.
- Join Facebook groups like “Manali Travel Updates” or “Himachal Snow Alerts”. They often post live conditions.
📲 Tip: Use #manalisnow on Instagram to see the latest snowfall photos and reels.
Last winter, I woke up to snowfall in Old Manali only after I checked a YouTube live cam. The local page showed Solang already turning white. Within an hour, I was on my way with boots and a big smile.
Best Places to See Snow Today (Gulaba, Sissu, Solang)
Not every spot in Manali receives snow every day. But some places stay snowy even if the town areas look dry.
Here are today’s safest bets:
- Gulaba – Just 20 km from Manali, it gets snow early and often.
- Solang Valley – Great for snow activities and regular snow during peak months.
- Sissu (via Atal Tunnel) – Most consistent snow, even when Manali town is dry.
📌 Local Tip: Always check road updates at your hotel reception. The Atal Tunnel sometimes closes for a few hours after fresh snow.
☕ Carry a thermos of hot tea, snow boots, and spare gloves. Snow might surprise you — and you should be ready to enjoy it!
4-Day Manali Snow Trip Itinerary (Flexible and Family-Friendly)
1 Day:
- Arrive in Manali, check into the hotel near Mall Road
- Stroll through snow-dusted streets
- Visit Hidimba Devi Temple post-snowfall
2 Day:
- Day trip to Solang Valley
- Try snow activities (skiing, sledding, tube rides)
- Evening hot café stop with snowy views
3 Day:
- Visit Gulaba or Hampta for scenic snow landscapes
- Optional: Snow picnic or short snow trek
- Watch the sunset from Vashisht or Old Manali café
4 Day:
- A buffer for snowfall delays or local exploration
- Attend Manali Winter Carnival (if dates match)
- Buy souvenirs and leave for the next destination
Final Tips for Snow Lovers Visiting Manali
🧳 What to Pack for a Snow Trip
Packing smart is the first step to a happy snow trip in Manali. Do not carry heavy bags filled with the wrong clothes. Instead, pack light but smart.
Start with thermal layers, waterproof jackets, and padded gloves. Avoid cotton socks—they freeze fast. Go for thick woolen ones. If you forget, you can rent snow boots at Mall Road for just ₹200 a day. I did that myself, and it saved me from wet feet. If you are coming during peak snowfall, make sure to plan smartly. Here’s how to reach Manali in winter safely from major cities.
Winter in Manali demands smart packing. To stay warm and safe, carry:
- Thermal innerwear (top & bottom)
- Insulated winter jacket (preferably hooded)
- Waterproof gloves and woolen socks
- Snow boots or anti-skid shoes
- Woolen cap and muffler
- Sunglasses (snow glare protection)
- Sunscreen (for high-altitude sunburn prevention)
- Personal medicines (cold, fever, altitude, digestion)
Pro Safety Tips:
- Walk slowly on icy roads
- Drink plenty of warm water to avoid dehydration
- Avoid overexertion in cold
- Do not step into deep snow near river edges
- Keep an emergency snack pouch and a thermos of hot tea
🛡️ Local Tips for a Safe Snowy Holiday
Manali is beautiful in the snow, but it can turn risky if you are not careful.
Start your day trips early. Roads are clearer in the morning, and snow hardens less. By 4 PM, the slopes get slippery. Once, I saw a tourist slip while clicking photos near Hidimba Temple. Always wear shoes with a grip.
Check live weather updates before heading to Rohtang or Sissu. Locals say, “Manali weather changes faster than mood swings.” I once planned a ride to Sissu, and by the time we crossed the Atal Tunnel, snow blocked the return road. We waited 4 hours at a dhaba sipping chai.
If you are with kids or older parents:
- Stay near Mall Road for easy access
- Avoid solo trips to high points like Hamta or Bhrigu
- Always inform your hotel about your route
Lastly, always carry dry snacks and some cash. ATMs may stop working in snow zones.
🗓️ Suggested Itinerary for Peak Snowfall Month (Mid-Jan to Mid-Feb)
This plan is simple, safe, and packed with snowy joy:
Day 1:
Reach Manali, check in near Mall Road. Rest and take an evening walk near Van Vihar or Old Manali.
Day 2:
Head to Solang Valley by 9 AM. Try skiing, snowboarding, or take a ropeway ride. Have lunch at a valley café. Return before sunset.
Day 3:
Visit Sissu via the Atal Tunnel. Enjoy deep snow and stunning white views. Sip tea at a local stall and click snow-laden photos. Return to Manali by 5 PM.
Day 4:
Roam around local sights—Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Club House. Buy souvenirs. Try trout fish or momos. Prepare to check out the next day.
Bonus Tip: Keep one buffer day. If heavy snow blocks the road, you will not miss your bus or train.
Conclusion: Which Month Has Heavy Snow in Manali?
If your heart dreams of walking in soft, untouched snow, then January is the moment to chase it. Manali turns white, silent, and magical. Every turn reveals rooftops covered in snow, kids throwing snowballs, and pine trees adorned with frost.
If you want snow with smoother travel, then February brings a perfect balance. You still get the winter charm but with less disruption.
Snowfall in Manali is more than just cold weather. Chai in freezing air warms your hands and heart. The silence of snow-covered streets wraps around you like a soft blanket as you walk. That first touch of snow brings a smile only a child would understand.
Let your heart guide you. Pick the month that matches your mood. Snow will follow.
🔗 More Snow & Weather Tips for Manali Travelers
Want to enjoy Manali’s snow at the right time and with fewer surprises? These helpful guides will make your trip smoother and more memorable:
- May snow chances in Manali – Know if late-season snow can surprise you
- Best weeks to see snowfall in Manali – A clear breakdown of the top snow-viewing periods
- Safest time to visit Manali with weather tips – Travel smart with season-based advice
- Real-time snowfall update from Manali – Is it snowing today? Track it live
- Tips to stay warm during snow travel – My go-to checklist for beating the Manali cold
- Weather feel of Manali today – Sky, air, and chill factor, beyond the numbers
- Snow season rush in Manali – Where to avoid crowds and where to relax
- Most comfortable weather for Manali – Which season suits your travel mood best
- Snowfall in Manali – Best Time, Live Updates & Cold Survival Tips – My complete guide for snow lovers and winter explorers
❓FAQs About Heavy Snowfall in Manali
January is the best month to experience heavy snowfall in Manali. During this time, the snow is thick, fresh, and consistent, covering rooftops, roads, and mountains. It offers the perfect winter atmosphere for snow lovers and photographers.
The coldest month in Kullu-Manali is January. Temperatures often drop below zero, especially at night, making it the chilliest time of the year with the highest chance of snowfall.
Snow falls in Manali during the winter season, which begins in late December and continues through February. January and early February bring the heaviest and most reliable snow.
In January and February, Manali experiences heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. March and April mark the start of spring with melting snow. May and June bring mild summer weather ideal for sightseeing, while July to September is monsoon season. October and November are cooler but may not have snowfall.
To stay warm during snowfall in Manali, wear multiple layers of winter clothing, use thermal inners, and choose hotels with effective heating. Cover your head and hands, stay dry, and drink warm fluids regularly to maintain body heat in the cold.
In 2025, snowfall in Manali is expected to begin around 20 to 25 December and continue through January. The heaviest snowfall is likely during the third week of January or the first half of February, based on recent weather trends.
Hi, I am Manoj Kumar, the voice behind Trip Guru Go. I am a travel researcher, SEO content expert, and founder of this blog. With over 12 years of experience in digital travel research, I simplify complex destinations into real, helpful, and trustworthy guides.
Every article I write is backed by local sources, real traveler experiences, and deep fact-checking. Even if I have not visited every place personally, I never share anything without strong on-ground insight.
I do not sell travel packages or promote anything paid. My only goal is to help you travel smarter — with zero fluff, 100% honesty, and a deep focus on your safety and experience.
