Best places in India for snow sports and winter thrills
Experience the thrill of India's winter wilderness with top adventure activities like skiing in Gulmarg, snowboarding in Manali, and the legendary Chadar frozen river trek in Ladakh. From adrenaline-packed snow sports to scenic winter treks, India offers countless opportunities for adventure lovers seeking unique snow-filled experiences this 2025.
New Delhi: Winter season has arrived in India, bringing with it the perfect opportunity for thrill-seekers to explore adrenaline-pumping adventure activities. Across the country, the chill offers ideal conditions for exciting sports ranging from skiing and snowboarding to river rafting and trekking. India’s diverse terrain promises unique experiences in some of the best adventure destinations. Whether you’re a novice or expert, winter adventures in India combine breathtaking landscapes with heart-racing fun, attracting enthusiasts from all over.
For those looking to add excitement to their winter travels, these adventure activities offer the perfect blend of thrill and nature. From the icy slopes of the Himalayas to vibrant river rapids and desert camping, there’s something for every adventurer in winter 2025. Explore the top types of winter adventure activities India has to offer and discover where and how you can experience them, complete with approximate pricing to help plan your trip.
1. Skiing in Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli is among the best places to visit in India during winter for skiing enthusiasts. Known for well-maintained slopes and stunning Himalayan views, it offers lessons for beginners and advanced trails for pros.
Price: Skiing packages start at around Rs 2,000 per hour, including equipment rental and coaching.
2. Ice Skating in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla features India’s only natural ice skating rink, a magical spot to glide amidst snowfall. It’s perfect for a fun winter day out with family or friends.
Price: Entry fees are nominal, around Rs 150; skate rental costs approximately INR 200 per hour.
3. River Rafting in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Winter rafting in Rishikesh is exhilarating for adventure lovers who enjoy the thrill of rapid waters amid frosty weather. The Ganges’ rapids offer varied difficulty levels.
Price: Rafting trips cost between Rs 1,500 to Rs 2000 depending on the route and duration.
4. Trekking in Ladakh and Spiti Valley
For trek lovers, Ladakh and Spiti Valley provide challenging winter trails surrounded by surreal snow-capped landscapes. Guided treks include village stays and camping under stars.
Price: Trek packages start at Rs5,000 for short treks, going up for longer expeditions with amenities included.
5. Desert Camping in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Experience the serene desert nights with fun-filled desert safaris and camping under the stars. Winter offers cool, pleasant temperatures ideal for desert adventures.
Price: Desert safari and camping packages range from Rs 2,000 to INR 4,000, including meals and entertainment.
6. Paragliding in Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh
Bir Billing hosts some of the best paragliding spots worldwide, inviting thrill-seekers to soar high with panoramic winter views of the Dhauladhar range.
Price: Tandem paragliding flights generally cost between Rs 3,000 and Rs5,000.
Winter adventure activities in India offer thrilling ways to embrace the season’s beauty and excitement. From snowy mountain slopes to desert dunes and river rapids, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone. Choosing these top experiences not only guarantees excitement but also unforgettable memories across India’s scenic winter landscapes in 2025. Ready to conquer the cold and chase the thrill? Your winter adventure starts here.