India is a country that will surprise you with its diversity, not just in its culture, but also in its landscapes. Starting with golden deserts, lush green rainforests, snow-capped mountains, and serene tropical coastlines, the country has it all.
Whether you are a mountain person or a sea person, there is something for everyone. The country never disappoints. However, if you are a mountain person, the question of which is the coldest place in India has crossed your mind.
If you are a snow-lover, a thrill-seeker, or planning your next trip to the mountains, here is a list of some of the coldest places in India. Here is everything you need to know, like the best time to visit, the lowest temperature the place experiences, and some essential travel tips.
Dras, Ladakh: Coldest Place in India
Dras wins the prize for the coldest inhabited place in India, and holds the crown as the second coldest place in the world. This lonely town in the Kargil district is popularly known as “The gateway to Ladakh.”
- Location: Dras is located in the Kargil district of the Union Territory of Ladakh, at an altitude of 3,460 meters (11,350 feet).
- Lowest Temperature: -45°C in peak winter (January)
- Best Time to Visit: June to September, when roads are accessible and temperatures are bearable.
Why Visit?
- Gateway to Ladakh
- Spectacular winter landscapes
- Proximity to the Kargil War Memorial
Other Coldest Places in India You Must Explore
India has diverse climatic conditions, and is home to a lot of places where the temperature can drop below 0 degrees Celsius and remains cold almost throughout the entire year. Some of those places are listed below.
| Place | State | Temperature | Best Time To Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siachen Glacier | Ladakh | -50°C | April-June |
| Dras | Ladakh | -45°C | June-September |
| Leh | Ladakh | -28°C | May-September |
| Spiti Valley | Himachal Pradesh | -30°C | May-October |
| Sela Pass | Arunachal Pradesh | -15°C | March-May |
| Yumthang Valley | North Sikkim | -25°C | March-June |
| Munsiyari | Uttarakhand | -12°C | April-June & October-November |
| Ooty | Tamil Nadu | 5°C | October-June |
| Kodaikanal | Tamil Nadu | 6°C | April-June |
1. Siachen Glacier, Ladakh
- Lowest Temperature: -50°C
- Best Time to Visit: April to June
- Highlights: Camping under the stars, Siachen Base Camo Museum, snow trekking
Located in the eastern Karakoram range, this is the highest battlefield you will witness. Spread across 76km, it is one of the most challenging and coldest regions where you will notice the Indian Army stationed, no matter what time of the year you visit.
Surviving in these extreme weather conditions is difficult, but a dispute over the territory between India and Pakistan persists. The glacier is a restricted area because of its military significance, but Indian tourists can now visit without any permit.
2. Leh, Ladakh
- Lowest Temperature: -28°C
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Highlights: Snow-clad mountains, monasteries, frozen lakes (like Pangong Tso)
It is the capital of Ladakh and has made quite a name in the world of mountain lovers, especially bikers. The area has a rich history and culture, and it is best to visit during the summer.
Pangoan kaje, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and other monasteries are some of the attractions of the place.
3. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Lowest Temperature: -30°C in January
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Highlights: Snow trekking, remote monasteries, winter festivals
The word “spiti” means middle land, and the name stands for the land that is situated between Tibet and India. The place is rich with Buddhist culture, quite the same as found in Ladakh and Tibet.
You will have a lovely experience in Kaza, situated at an altitude of 3,800 meters up in the Himalayas. When you are there, do not miss out on their amazing Yak momos, and some of the popular monasteries to add to your experience book.
4. Sela Pass, Arunachal Pradesh
- Lowest Temperature: -15°C
- Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to December
- Highlights: Snowfall views, scenic drive through the Himalayas
Sela Pass, popularly known as the icebox of India, is located between West Kameng and Tawang, at an altitude of 4,170 meters.
This place links Tawang to Guwahati, and Tezpur provides you with a captivating view of the eastern Himalayas and some of the most beautiful lakes in Tawang. This is a popular travel destination and is a sacred place for Tibetan Buddhists as well.
5. North Sikkim (Yumthang Valley, Zero Point)
- Lowest Temperature: -25°C
- Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to December
- Highlights: Frozen rivers, hot springs, Rhododendron blooms
North Sikkim is home to Kanchenjunga, the tallest peak in the world, and makes it place in the list of one of the coldest places in India.
You will witness thick vegetation till alpine heights and then disappear into the Tundra and various waterfalls, adding to the beauty of the place. Yumthang Valley, Crows Lake, Zero Point, and Lachung monastery are just a few to name.
6. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
- Lowest Temperature: -12°C
- Best Time to Visit: April to June and October to November
- Highlights: Rafting in the Gori Ganga River, trekking, and visiting its many falls
Located in the Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand, this is one of the coldest places in India. Situated at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level, it stays cold and dry all through he year.
You will witness amazing snow-covered mountains, icy lakes, and amazing trekking trails. Some even say that it is “Little Kashmir.” You can see the Panchachuli peaks, and it is also the base for trekking to Milam glaciers, Ralam, and Namik.
Coldest Place in South India: Ooty & Kodaikanal
Although not as extreme as the north, Ooty and Kodaikanal are known as the coldest places in South India.
Ooty, Tamil Nadu
- Lowest Temperature: 5°C
- Best Time to Visit: October to June
With the amazing landscapes and colonial charm, Ooty is one of the coldest places that you will find in South India. The climate is pleasant, and you will encounter people from all over visiting Ooty whenever you visit.
Do not miss Doddabetta Peak for panoramic views. The colorful botanical garden is one of the major attractions, and you cannot miss the Ooty Lake if you wish to spend some time in peace.
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
- Lowest Temperature: 6°C
- Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October
Kodaikanal is known for its misty viewpoints, scenic trails, dense forest, and romantic vibe. This is an amazing place if you are a nature lover and a couple.
The untouched beauty of the place makes it one of the most unexplored hill stations and something you should definitely plan for. Enjoy a horse ride, or paddle around the lake, or just take a stroll along the Coaker’s Walk. I am sure you will not regret it.
Travel Tips for Cold Destinations
- Carry multiple layers, gloves, thermal wear, and snow boots.
- Carry power bank, torch, Oxygen cylinder(if need).
- Use reliable travel apps for navigation, weather tracking, and bookings.
- Stay hydrated and prepare for high altitudes. Carry ORS, dry fruits.
- Check local weather advisories before travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
When discussing some of the coldest places to visit, these are some of the common questions people ask.
Dras is listed as the coldest place in India. Temperatures often drop below -30°C in winter, which is currently the coldest.
For snow lovers, the months of December to February are ideal. For easier travel, consider visiting from May to October.
Yes, with proper planning, using solo travel for female safety tips, and choosing secure stays. However, you will need proper planning for this, and you should plan ahead of time.
Yes, but prepare for extreme conditions, especially for young children or seniors. It is best that you do a thorough health check-up to ensure everyone is fit for their travels.
Thermal clothing, waterproof gear, medicines, and reliable travel apps are just the beginning of it. Apart from that, you will need numerous other things like a torch, ropes, etc.
Drass is called the “coldest place in India” because of its extremely low winter temperatures, which can drop to -45°C (especially in January).
When Are You Traveling?
Now you know that Dras is the coldest place in India, and you have a list of some of the coldest places in the country.
All you have to do is pick one of the places, whether the snowy treks of Spiti or the serene colonial landscapes in Ooty. Now, pack your bags, get all the travel apps you need, and set out for a magical journey.
Moreover, for all those brave hearts, solo travel for females is also an option, and you should consider adding it to your bucket list. This is something that will liberate you and provide an experience of a lifetime.