4 Stunning Places in India You Should Avoid Visiting During Winter

Winter paints many parts of India in magical shades, but not every destination welcomes travelers during this icy season. Some breathtaking places become completely inaccessible due to heavy snowfall, frozen roads, and extreme weather conditions. If you’re planning a winter trip, here are four stunning destinations in India that are best avoided during winter.

1. Zanskar Valley, Ladakh

Zanskar Valley transforms into a frozen wilderness during winter. Heavy snowfall blocks mountain passes, cutting off all road connectivity for months. Temperatures plunge far below zero, making travel risky and accommodation scarce. While the famous Chadar Trek happens here, regular tourism is nearly impossible until spring restores access.

2. Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim

Perched at over 17,000 feet, Gurudongmar Lake faces extreme winter conditions. Thick snow blankets the region, and roads leading to the lake often remain closed due to dangerous driving conditions. With biting winds and oxygen levels dropping, winter visits are restricted, making summer the safest time to admire this sacred lake.

3. Gurez Valley, Jammu & Kashmir

Gurez Valley turns completely isolated once winter sets in. The vital Razdan Pass shuts down due to heavy snowfall, cutting off access to this serene valley. Sub-zero temperatures, frozen rivers, and limited facilities make travel unsafe, and tourism comes to a standstill until the snow melts.

4. Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh

Winter brings harsh weather to Tawang, with snowfall frequently blocking mountain roads. Landslides and icy stretches make travel difficult, and temperatures drop sharply. Due to unpredictable conditions and road closures, reaching the iconic Tawang Monastery during winter can be challenging and is best postponed until warmer months.

These destinations are undeniably mesmerizing, but winter turns them into no-go zones for most travelers. To experience their true beauty safely and comfortably, plan your visit between late spring and early autumn, when roads reopen and nature is at its welcoming best.