Best Snowfall Places Near Kathmandu

If you want to experience snowfall in Nepal, you don’t have to travel far away to experience it. There are a number of places around the capital where there is a good likelihood of experiencing snowfall, covering the hills and mountains with a picturesque snowy terrain. If you’re looking for a simple hike to get your flake on or a spot with more snow cover, you’ve got choices if you want to get your chill on and witness the season’s whitest attraction.

Nagarkot

Nagarkot is a quite popular spot if you’d like to see the snow without having to go too far beyond Kathmandu. It is about 32 kilometers east of the city and hence quite a short day trip. The altitude at this spot is 2,195 meters and at this altitude you should get winter snow flurries from the season of late December until February.

When you’re in Nagarkot, you can see mesmerizing views of mountain ranges such as Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Manaslu if the sky is clear. And during the snowfall time, it looks even more beautiful and adds extra magic to the view, like you’re enjoying snow in the Himalaya region. 

Getting in is quite simple. It can be done in a bus or in a private vehicle. Some even trek in  from villages such as Chisapani, a quaint way of experiencing the countryside.

1. The best time to go for a snowfall experience in Nagarkot is in Late December to February.

2. You can expect a light snowfall with a clear view of the mountain ranges of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Manaslu. 

3. You can get there in 1.5 hrs from Kathmandu valley. 

Kalinchowk

If you are in search of a destination that becomes a winter wonderland in the best sense of the term, Kalinchowk is an ideal option situated a few hours away from Kathmandu. Located at 3,842 meters in the Dolakha district, the region receives heavy snowfall from the months of December till February. The trip in itself can be a fun experience by driving down to Kuri Village and then either trekking or enjoying a picturesque cable car ride till the world-famous Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple. The temple attracts numerous pilgrims primarily during the winter months and the snow-covered background enhances the experience of pilgrimage.

The view of Mount Gaurishankar is quite mesmerizing from Kalinchowk, including the other Himalayas. Visitors often enjoy snowfall and play there, like in a snowball fight or doing some sledding. It gives pleasure as well as being worth the view to go there. Kalinchowk is a great place for photography with snow-covered landscapes. The place is generally quiet and peaceful as people come there to enjoy the snowfall with the panoramic views of mountains. It is perfect for relaxation and a little escape from the busy lives of people.

1. The best time to visit Kalinchowk is in December to February

2. The main attraction of this place is the temple called Kalinchwok Bhagwati Temple. 

3. The travel options to reach Kalinchowk are to drive to Kuri village, then hike a bit and lastly use a cable car to reach it.

Transportation expenses vary, but you should plan for the drive and possibly the ride on the cable car, which is approximately NPR 500 for a person. The lodging in the vicinity of the Kuri Village also exists and usually falls in the NPR 1,500 and NPR 3,000 a night budget. It is a place that provides nature as well as a dash of spirituality and hence a trip to remember during the winter.

Chandragiri

Chandragiri is a relatively popular destination if you want to experience a little snow without having to move too far outside of Kathmandu. It is just outside the west of the valley and during winter, particularly around December and February, gets a good dusting. The first snow usually arrives in late December and January and February are typically the best months for witnessing it at its best.

One good thing about Chandragiri is the ease of access at the top. You have a couple of options, as a matter of fact. The crowd favorite one by far is the cable car. It's a very smooth ride, and when it's snowing, the scenery of the snowy hillocks and the distant mountains like Annapurna and Langtang is simply breathtaking. Just expect very long queues, however, when the snow is pouring down.

Phulchowki

Phulchowki is usually the first choice for a sudden snow fix by Kathmandu residents. It's the tallest of the hills encircling the valley and reaches a height of around 2,750 meters. It takes around 30-40 minutes to reach the base of Godawari from Kathmandu. From Godawari, you can either organize a private jeep ride closer up or, if you are up for it, a trek. The trek itself is very nice in any case and winds through lovely forests, which are especially lovely after a recent snowfall.

Phulchowki is one of the closest places to Kathmandu to reach and to experience snowfall. Many people go to Phulchowki just to enjoy the snowfall and that makes it the popular trip. The view is the main attraction from Phulchowki and that of snowfall adds more stunning views to it. It becomes one of the good options if you want to experience winter and snowfall without a long journey. 

1. The distance to reach Phulchowki from Kathmandu is around 14km southeast.

2. The best way to go there is to drive from Godawari; then you can hike and take a jeep to reach the destination.

3. The best time to go to Phulchowki and enjoy snowfall is from January on, but it can vary.

4. When you reach Phulchowki, you can expect to see forest trails, potential snowplay and mostly stunning valley views. 

Daman

Daman is about 80 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu and belongs to the Makwanpur district. It is another spot that can provide you a snowy experience. It lies at an altitude of about 2,300 meters. It won't get the same amount of snowfall as the high Himalayas, yet Daman is a very scenic winter view during the months of December and February.

It is famous for providing a complete wide-angle view of the Himalayas, at times a span of 400 kilometers. When it snows here, it quite beautifies the spot and is a good weekend escape for those wishing to experience the snow without traveling very far from the capital.

Getting there usually involves a bus ride from Kathmandu or for the more adventurous, a trek that can take you through such spots as Chitlang.

1. The best time to visit Daman is from December to February.

2. The altitude of Daman is 2,300 meters above sea level

3. The key attraction of this place is its stunning views and peaceful environment. 

Shivapuri Peak

Sivapuri Peak is one of the options to experience snowfall and it is also closer to Kathmandu Valley. It stands at an altitude of 2,732 meters. It’s also a popular hiking spot and people go to different places in Shivapurit for hikes. When the sky is clear, you can reach up to the top to experience the snowfall and enjoy it. The journey starts from the temple of Budhanilkantha, which itself is very beautiful. The best time to experience snowfall is from December to February during winter. 

Getting to Shivapuri involves going to the Shivapuri National Park entrance at Budhanilkantha. You may ride a taxi or ride a public bus. Once you reach the park entrance, you ought to purchase a permit and register for your trek. The trek up to the top may take you a full day, so you'd better be in for a good trek.

1. Snowfall chances at Shivapuri peak are quite high in the winter when the months are colder.

2. The peak offers the stunning views of Kathmandu valley and also mountain ranges.

Kakani

Almost 28 kilometers northwest of the capital, Kathmandu, Kakani is also a place that receives a dusting of snow during the winter season, usually from December till February. It is at a height of 2,070 meters and hence quite accessible and a good bet if you are searching for a relatively short day's outing from the city.

As the snow falls here, you can regularly see glimpses of rather grand peaks. Think Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, Dorje Lekpa, Ganesh Himal, Gauri Shankar and even Shishapangma. It's not typically a blizzard but enough to make the scenery appear rather pretty.

Getting there is quite simple. You can take a public bus or a personal vehicle from Machhapokhari in Kathmandu via Mudhkhu and Tinpiple. The alternative is by traveling along the way to Budhanilkantha and then a trek via Shivapuri National Park to Kakani. It's a good way to experience a touch of nature along with the potential for a spot of snow.

Helambu

Helambu is a lovely trekking area situated northwest of Kathmandu and is famous for the nature and Sherpa culture it offers. The region exists at 2,500 to 3,500 meters in altitude and as such receives snowfall during the winter season, December through February. When it does snow, the villages, the terraced farmland and the valleys are coated in a quiet, snow-covered beauty.

For a winter trek, Helambu is an excellent choice. The trek offers sheer photography opportunities of snow-covered mountains such as Langtang and Ganesh Himal and is relatively close to the capital. Sermathang and Melamchi are the favorite en route locations. The Helambu trek is comparatively gentler than the rest of the popular Himalayan treks and hence an excellent choice for a wide array of trekkers who would like to experience the winter trek without venturing too far away from Kathmandu.

1. You get to interact with local sherpa culture and learn about their culture and lifestyle.

2. You can see the clear, stunning views of mountain ranges.

3. Trails like those passing through Sermathang offer beautiful winter vistas.

4. You can expect to see picturesque villages with snowfall. 

Conclusion:

So, here you have it; some of the best spots not too far outside Kathmandu where you may just witness the rare snowfall. If you're in the mood for a day's picnic trip and want to view the rolling hills covered in white or a more ambitious overnight camping trip amidst the snow, the following spots are the perfect escape. Just check the weather prior to embarking, bundle up in layers and be prepared for the serene beauty that a new snowfall can create. It's the perfect opportunity for making memorable winter moments, so go for it and plan your snowy trip!

FAQS

1. When is the best time to see snow near Kathmandu? 

The prime time to witness snowfall around Kathmandu is during the winter months, typically from December through February. This is when the weather is coldest, and the higher hills and mountains surrounding the valley are most likely to be covered in a beautiful blanket of white.

2. What locations around Kathmandu are closest for snowfall? 

In a short snowy break, locations such as Chandragiri Hills, Daman, and Nagarkot are very convenient for travel from Kathmandu. They provide a good opportunity for a taste of snow without a big trip and are therefore ideal for a day trip or a short night's stay.

3. What should you bring for a trip to witness snowfall around Kathmandu? 

You should definitely pack warmly! Bring heavy sweaters, a heavy coat, mittens or gloves, a warm hat or cap, and waterproof shoes or boots. Bring layers so you can peel them off should you overheat while hiking. Don't forget the sunglasses and sunblock because the snow reflects the sun's rays very brightly.

4. Are there activities you can enjoy during snowfall? 

Yes! When it snows, you can have the classic winter activities, such as making snowmen, playing a harmless snowball war or going for a slow stroll amidst the snowy scenery. Numerous areas also get good photography spots from the snowfall, providing memorable experiences.

5. Are the Himalayas visible from these snowy locations? 

Absolutely. A majority of the locations have breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain chain. Peaks such as Everest, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal are clearly visible from locations such as Kalinchowk and Nagarkot, more so on a clear winter day. 

6. How do you access these snow points? 

In order to access these points, you usually drive in from Kathmandu. You can use the bus or rent a taxi. Chandragiri and a couple of others also have a cable car. The cable car is a great way to access the top in a fun and picturesque way and still experience the snowy view without having a rigorous trek.

7. Is it a guarantee that in winter I will experience snow near Kathmandu?

Not at all. While spots like Kalinchowk, Daman, and Chandragiri possess a high likelihood of snow during the best winter season, snowfall is weather-dependent. In some years heavy snowfall is observed and in others the snowfall is quite low.

8. How far is Kalinchowk from Kathmandu and does it get good snow?

Kalinchowk lies around 150 km (a 6-7 hour drive) away from Kathmandu and is one of the best places for a sure shot in winter snow. It's also known for the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple and the cable car ride.

9. Is the snowfall safe for traveling by car?

The roads are steep and slippery during winter. It is best to have a 4WD car during winter unless you hire a driver who is used to the roads.

10. Are the winter visits good for young children or families and children?

Actually, a few of the spots like Chandragiri and Nagarkot, are feasible for the family and shall not entail strenuous hiking. The kids especially enjoy the snow play zones near the hotels and meadows.

11. What kind of accommodation exists in snowy regions near Kathmandu?

Most places like Nagarkot, Daman, and Kalinchowk offer hotels, lodges, or homestays ranging from budget to mid-range. It’s wise to book in advance during peak snowfall season.

12. Is hiking experience necessary for visiting winter spots within and around Kathmandu?

Not for the majority of locations. Road access in a short time is possible for Nagarkot, Chandragiri and Daman. While trekking in the heavier snow areas, such as Kalinchowk or the more elevated hill locations requires experience and stamina.

13. Is Kathmandu's snow good for skiing or snowboarding?

Nepal isn't yet established as a ski resort. Although the locals occasionally slide down snowy slopes for entertainment, the ski and snowboard infrastructure is underdeveloped. The majority of the visitors come for snow play, trekking, and viewpoints of mountains. 

14. What are photography tips for landscapes in the snow? 

Bring sunglasses to minimize glare and camera settings that account for brightness. Attempt to photograph the snow under dawn or dusk light for enchanted photography. The panoramic views from Daman or Nagarkot are particularly photogenic. 

15. Is a combination of a snow trip and cultural or sightseeing activities feasible? 

Yes! You can combine a snow trip along with visits to the nearby attractions. Like you can combine Nagarkot along with Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Chandragiri along with Kathmandu Valley sightseeing, or Kalinchowk along with Dolakha Bhimsen Temple.