Tall pines and snow-covered slanting roofs paint a postcard-perfect picture. Set 7,200 ft above sea level, Pahalgam in Kashmir is a pristine snowbound town with everything in its favour, from its riverside setting and freezing winter temperatures to snow-covered peaks that are ideal for skiing. To experience nature's magic, opt for one of the longer trek routes that carry you through tranquil mountains, away from the crowds and clamour of the city. Make sure you visit Aru, a stunning hamlet and trekking base a short drive away, the gorgeous Lidder valley, and the beautiful Betaab valley, which took its name from the Bollywood film shot there.

One of the few hill stations that stays snowbound the longest, from November to April, is Sonmarg in Jammu and Kashmir. Literally meaning the meadow of gold, Sonmarg is home to large glaciers, snow-covered landscapes as far as the eye can see, frozen lakes and deep valleys that offer plenty of snow action. A visit to Baltal valley, the Kheer Bhawani temple and the nearby meadow of Yusmarg is well worth your time.

Can't visit Switzerland yet? Try India's own ski mecca, Auli, ringed by verdant forests and tall mountains that offer some of the best panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Kamet and Mana Parbat. With tempting mountain grades and country cottages, Auli is one of the finest hill stations for adventurous activities and one of the most reliable spots for snowfall in India. Dotted with mountain resorts and ski slopes rising from 2,500 m to 3,000 m that can give a few international ski destinations a run for their money, Auli lies on the way to Badrinath, around 16 km from Joshimath.

Several parts of the northeastern state of Sikkim stay snowbound for much of the year. Katao, a secret gem near Lachung at around 13,500 ft, is home to downhill grades, snowy beauty and dramatic peaks, vales and streams. The Lachung and Lachen monasteries, the rolling meadows of Yumthang and the beauty of Yumesamdong, or Zero Point, are all must-visits. Do note that Katao sits close to the Indo-China border, so an Army permit is required to visit. North Sikkim serves up some of the most stunning vistas you will ever see, though its passes are often shut by heavy snow, so check weather and road conditions before you plan a visit.

One of the best places to experience snowfall in India is Ladakh. This moon-shaped land lies under a thick blanket of snow from October to March. Winter ushers in throngs of snow lovers and adrenaline seekers. Although the highways into Leh are shut for much of winter, places like Zanskar become trekking hubs when the lakes, waterfalls and rivers freeze. If you plan to attempt the challenging nine-day Chadar trek across the frozen Zanskar river between January and March, plan well in advance and start building your fitness levels early. Make time for Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, the Magnetic Hill, the stunning Pangong Lake, the many monasteries, Khardung La and the Nubra valley.