Planning a Trip to Dharamshala in December? Read This First!
Imagine this: You are sitting on a balcony, wrapped in a thick blanket, holding a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Right in front of you, the Dhauladhar mountains are shining white with fresh snow, and the air is so crisp it wakes you up instantly.
Sounds dreamy, right?
That is exactly what Dharamshala in December feels like. It is magical, quiet, and completely different from the crowded summer months.
But, let’s be honest—planning a winter trip here can be a little confusing. You probably have a hundred questions running through your mind: “Is it going to be too cold to enjoy?”, “Will I get to see snowfall?”, or even, “Are the roads safe to drive on?”
I get it. Visiting the hills in winter is not just about booking a hotel; it is about being prepared. If you pack the wrong clothes, you might spend your whole trip shivering in your room!
In this post, I am going to share everything you need to know about visiting Dharamshala in December. From what to pack (so you stay warm) to the best spots for catching that winter sun, I’ve got you covered.
You might also like Triund Trek in December
The Big Question: What is the Weather Really Like of Dharamshala in December?
Let’s get straight to the point. The weather in Dharamshala in December is a mix of bright, warm sunshine and freezing cold nights.
During the day, it is actually quite pleasant! The temperature usually stays between 10°C and 15°C. As long as you are standing in the sun, you will feel warm and cozy.
But the moment the sun goes down (around 5 PM), the cold hits you hard. Temperatures drop rapidly, often reaching 1°C or even 0°C at night.
Will you see snow? If you stay in the main Dharamshala market, snow is rare. But if you go just a little higher to McLeod Ganj or Naddi, especially towards Christmas or New Year, your chances of seeing fresh snowfall are very high!
How to reach Dharamshala in December
1. By Air (Fastest but Risky in Winter)
The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (Kangra), which is just about 13 km from the main town. You can get direct flights from Delhi and Chandigarh.
- Winter Tip: Since it is December, flights often get delayed or cancelled because of heavy fog in Delhi or bad weather in the hills. Always have a backup plan (like a taxi or bus) just in case your flight gets stuck!
2. By Train (Most Reliable)
Dharamshala does not have its own railway station. The best option is to take a train to Pathankot (Punjab), which is about 85 km away. From there, you can easily hire a taxi (approx. 3 hours) or take a local bus to reach Dharamshala.
- Winter Tip: Trains are usually the safest bet in winter as they are less likely to be cancelled than flights, though they might run a little late due to fog in the plains.
3. By Road (Most Scenic)
If you love road trips, the drive from Delhi (approx. 480 km) or Chandigarh is beautiful. You can take a private car or book an overnight Volvo bus from Delhi (Kashmere Gate or Majnu-ka-tilla). The roads are generally good.
- Winter Tip: Be careful of thick fog while driving through Punjab and Haryana early in the morning. Also, if you drive up to Naddi or McLeod Ganj, watch out for “Black Ice” (invisible slippery ice) on the roads during early mornings and late nights.
Top Places to Visit in Dharamshala in December
1. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium (HPCA Stadium)
If there is one photo you absolutely must take in December, it is here. This is not just a sports ground; it is one of the most beautiful stadiums in the world. In December, the massive Dhauladhar mountain range in the background is heavily covered in fresh white snow, which creates a stunning contrast with the bright green field and the red stands.
The air is super clear in winter, so you get a perfect, sharp view of the peaks that you might miss in summer due to haze. Even if you are not a cricket fan, you should just go there, sit in the stands for a while, and soak in the view. It feels like you are sitting right in the lap of the Himalayas.
2. St. John in the Wilderness Church
This place feels straight out of a fantasy movie, especially in winter. Located in a dense forest of Deodar trees between Forsyth Ganj and McLeod Ganj, this Neo-Gothic church has a mysterious and peaceful vibe. In December, the mornings here are often misty, which makes the stone structure look ancient and magical.
Since it is December, you might catch some Christmas decorations or preparations if you visit later in the month. It is incredibly quiet here—the only sound you usually hear is the wind passing through the tall pine trees. It is the perfect spot to just sit on a bench, enjoy the silence, and escape the noise of the main market.
3. Naddi View Point
If you want to see the sunset, this is the best spot in all of Dharamshala. Naddi is a small village slightly above McLeod Ganj, and in December, it offers the closest and clearest view of the Dhauladhar range without doing any trekking.
The best time to visit is around 4:30 PM. You can grab a hot bowl of Maggi and tea from the small local stalls while watching the sun go down. As soon as the sun sets, the temperature drops very quickly—often close to freezing—so make sure you are wearing your heaviest jacket. If you are lucky and visit in late December, Naddi is often the first place (accessible by road) to receive snowfall!
4. Triund Trek (For Adventure Lovers)
For those who want a real winter adventure, Triund is the place to be. In December, the top of Triund is almost certain to be covered in snow. The trek is about 9 km and usually takes 4-5 hours. However, winter makes it a little tricky because the path can be slippery due to ice.
The view from the top is breathtaking—you have the Kangra Valley on one side and the massive snow-covered mountains on the other. A small warning though: Before you start, always check with local guides at the base. If the snowfall has been too heavy, the police might restrict camping at the top for safety. But if the weather is clear, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
5. Bhagsunag Waterfall and Temple
This is a classic tourist spot, but it has a different charm in winter. The waterfall is located near the ancient Bhagsunag Shiva Temple. To reach the fall, you have to walk for about 20 minutes on a stone path.
In December, the water is absolutely freezing—literally ice-cold! You probably won’t want to take a dip, but sitting by the rocks and feeling the cold spray of water on your face is refreshing. The best part about visiting in winter is the “Shiva Cafe” and other small cafes further up the trail. They are super cozy, and having a hot ginger lemon honey tea there while looking at the barren winter hills is a vibe you won’t forget.
The Essential December Packing List for Dharmshal Trip
1. Heavy Woollens & Thermals (The Lifesavers) – Don’t underestimate the cold. You need at least two sets of thermal inner (top and bottom) to wear under your clothes. Pack a heavy windproof down jacket (puffer jacket) for the evenings and a couple of warm fleece sweaters for the daytime.
2. Sturdy Boots with Good Grip – Leave your flat canvas shoes or heels at home. You need waterproof boots or hiking shoes with a solid grip. The roads can be wet, and if you visit Naddi or Triund, you might encounter slippery snow or black ice.
3. Warm Accessories (Head-to-Toe Protection) – Your body heat escapes from your extremities. Pack a woollen beanie (that covers your ears), thick woollen socks (carry extras in case they get wet), and insulated gloves. A muffler is also great for protecting your neck from the freezing wind.
4. Winter Skincare Essentials- The mountain air in December is extremely dry and will crack your skin quickly. Carry a heavy moisturizer, lip balm, and sunscreen (the winter sun in the mountains is harsh and can cause bad sunburns).
5. Power Bank & Cash – Batteries drain very fast in freezing temperatures. A fully charged power bank is a must for your phone and camera. Also, carry sufficient cash, as ATMs in McLeod Ganj sometimes run out of money or connectivity due to bad weather.
6. Medicine Pouch for Cold & Motion Sickness – The winding roads can cause nausea, so pack motion sickness pills. Also, bring basic medicines for cold, cough, and headaches, as the sudden temperature drop can make you feel under the weather.
Important Travel Tips for December
1. Beware of “Black Ice” — Drive Slow. This is the biggest danger on the roads in December. Black ice is a thin, invisible layer of ice that forms on the road, especially in shaded areas like the route to Naddi or Dharamkot. It is extremely slippery. If you are driving, keep your speed low and avoid sudden braking, especially early in the morning.
2. Start Your Sightseeing Early — Days are Short. In December, the sun sets around 5:00 PM, and it gets dark and freezing cold very quickly. Try to start your day by 8:00 AM so you can cover spots like the Waterfall or Triund trek while the sun is still out. Don’t plan any distant sightseeing for the late evening.
3. Be Prepared for Traffic Jams — The Holiday Rush. Since December is peak season (due to Christmas and New Year), the narrow roads connecting Lower Dharamshala to McLeod Ganj often get jammed for hours. If possible, walk short distances instead of taking a car, or plan your movements to avoid the peak evening hours (6 PM to 8 PM).
4. Stay Hydrated — The Winter Trap You won’t feel thirsty because of the cold, but the mountain air is very dry and dehydrating. This can lead to a bad headache or altitude sickness. Keep sipping warm water, ginger tea, or soup throughout the day to keep your energy up.
5. Keep Your Itinerary Flexible — Weather Changes. Mountain weather is unpredictable in December. A sudden heavy snowfall might block the road to Triund or Naddi. Don’t get frustrated if plans change; instead, have a “Plan B” ready, like visiting the Norbulingka Institute or a local monastery which are usually accessible even in snow.
6. Carry Sufficient Cash — ATMs Can Freeze. Online payments (UPI) usually work, but heavy cloud cover or snowstorms can disrupt mobile networks. Also, ATMs in McLeod Ganj often run out of cash during the tourist rush. It is always safer to carry enough cash for food and taxis just in case.
Conclusion
So, there you have it—your complete guide to surviving and enjoying Dharamshala in December.
Let’s be honest: it is going to be freezing. Your nose will be cold, and you might shiver a little if you take your jacket off. But trust me, the moment you see those snow-white Dhauladhar mountains against the blue winter sky, every bit of the cold will feel worth it.
It is a different kind of magic that you just don’t get in the summer. It is quieter, cleaner, and much more peaceful.
Just remember the golden rule we talked about: Pack heavy woolens, start your days early, and drive carefully. If you are prepared, this trip will be one of the best winter memories of your life.
Now, I want to hear from you! Are you planning to visit for Christmas or New Year? Or do you have a question about the snow? Drop a comment below and let me know. Happy travelling!
Here you can also check our Official Profiles.
Frequently asked questions about Dharamshala in December
Q1. Does it really snow in Dharamshala in December?
It depends on where exactly you are staying. The lower part of Dharamshala (the main town) rarely sees snow. However, if you go up to McLeod Ganj, Naddi, or Dharamkot, there is a very high chance of snowfall, especially in the last week of December or around New Year.
Q2. Is the Triund Trek open in December?
Usually, yes. However, if there has been very heavy snowfall, the forest department or local police might close the trek for safety reasons. It is best to ask your hotel or a local guide after you arrive. If the top is closed, you can still trek halfway up to the “Magic View Cafe.”
Q3. Is it safe to drive to Dharamshala in winter?
Yes, the roads are generally well-maintained. However, you need to be careful of thick fog on the highway in Punjab. Once you reach the hills, drive slowly in the mornings to avoid slipping on “Black Ice” (frozen water on the road).
Q4. Which is better in December: Manali or Dharamshala?
It depends on what you want. If you want heavy snow, skiing, and a lot of tourist crowds, go to Manali. But if you want a peaceful vibe, café hopping, monasteries, and a view of snow-capped peaks without freezing too much, Dharamshala is the better choice.
Q5. How many days are enough for a Dharamshala trip in winter?
A trip of 3 to 4 days is perfect. This gives you enough time to explore McLeod Ganj, visit the Cricket Stadium, enjoy a sunset at Naddi, and even do a short day hike without rushing.