North India Statesman
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As soon as the winter season arrives, the thought of roaming on snow covered hills starts coming to mind. As soon as the name of snowfall comes, the first images that come to our mind are Manali, Shimla or Spiti Valley. But these famous places are so crowded in winter that the search for peace remains incomplete and the journey becomes a rush.
But do you know that there are some unknown and beautiful places in India, where you can feel the real magic of snowfall without any crowd? These places are so peaceful and beautiful that even big tourist destinations pale in comparison to them. Come, let us take you on a tour of 5 such hidden icy treasures of India.
1. Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh: Where the morning brings peace
Kalpa, situated in Kinnaur district of Himachal, is such a peaceful and beautiful Himalayan village, about which very few people know. When it snows in winter, the apple orchards are covered in white blankets and the old wooden houses look like something out of a fairy-tale. There is hardly any crowd of tourists here, hence this place becomes even more special. The mornings here are very calm, when the cool breeze, sweet chirping of birds and the soft tune of bells coming from distant temples simultaneously reach the ears.
2. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand: The magical city of snow
Munsiyari, hidden in the Kumaon Himalayas of Uttarakhand, turns into a magical world in winter. After heavy snowfall, the houses, pine forests and roads here, everything gets wrapped in a thick white sheet. The view of snow covered Himalayan peaks (like Panchachuli) visible from here is so amazing that you will not be able to forget it throughout your life. Adventure lovers can also do a wonderful winter trek like ‘Khaliya Top’ here.
3. Chitkul, Himachal Pradesh: India’s last snowy village
Chitkul, situated on the Indo-Tibet border, is one of the last villages of India. In winter, this place is almost cut off from the world and this is what makes it special. After snowfall, the Basanti river here freezes and the pine trees look like cotton swabs. The crowd here is so less that you will only hear the sound of your footsteps falling on the snow. This peaceful valley will take you to another world.
4. Nathang Valley, Sikkim: Where you get to feel the real Himalayas
If you want to enjoy the real winter at the height of the Himalayas, far away from the crowd, then Nathang Valley of Sikkim is for you. From December to March this entire valley remains covered with thick snow and the temperature drops to minus. The Tibetan style houses, clear blue sky and snowy fields spread all around will give you an unforgettable experience.
5. Lahaul (Sissu), Himachal Pradesh: Hidden treasure near Atal Tunnel
With the opening of Atal Tunnel, it has become easier to reach Lahaul Valley, but a small beautiful village ‘Sissu’ still holds its peace and tranquility. By the end of November, snowfall starts here, the waterfalls start freezing and the entire valley turns white. This is a perfect destination for those who want to enjoy winter and snow without putting in much effort or climbing high altitudes.
