India, known for its diverse climate ranging from tropical to alpine, also boasts some of the coldest regions in the subcontinent. From snow-capped mountains to icy plateaus, these places offer a chilling escape from the country’s usual warmth. Here, we delve into the top 10 coldest places in India in 2024, where temperatures plummet to frosty lows.
India’s Coldest Places 2024
India’s Coldest Places offer respite from the scorching heat, providing unforgettable experiences amidst chilly climates. From the rugged landscapes of Spiti to the icy expanse of Siachen Glacier and the serene charm of Gangtok, these destinations beckon travelers with temperatures dipping below zero degrees. With a diverse range of high-altitude hill stations, India stands as the ultimate destination for those seeking cool retreats from the hot and humid summer months.
Coldest Place in India 2024
Siachen Glacier, nestled in the northern Karakoram range, reigns as the coldest place in India and the world outside polar regions. Perched at an altitude of 5,753 meters, its chilling temperatures plummet to a bone-chilling minus 50 degrees Celsius in January, while summer offers little respite with temperatures hovering around minus 10 degrees Celsius. This disputed territory between India and Pakistan poses extreme hostility, inhabited solely by army personnel equipped with specialized clothing and gear to endure the harsh conditions. Tragically, heavy snowfall, snowstorms, and avalanches have claimed the lives of countless military personnel, marking Siachen Glacier as one of the world’s most perilous regions.
Top-10 Coldest Places in India 2024
Siachen Glacier, with the recorded temperature of -50°C, holds the title of the coldest place in India, followed by Dras, Leh and Spiti Valley.
Here is the list of top-10 coldest places in India 2024:
Top-10 Coldest Places in India 2024 | ||
Rank | Place | Recorded Temperature |
1. | Siachen Glacier | -50°C |
2. | Dras | -45°C |
3. | Leh Ladakh | -35°C |
4. | Spiti Valley | -30°C |
5. | Srinagar | -30°C |
6. | Sela Pass | -15°C |
7. | Lachen and Thangu Valley | -10°C |
8. | Munisiyari | -10°C |
9. | Sonamarg | -6°C |
10. | Rohtang Pass | -5°C |
Coldest Place in India – Siachen Valley
Recorded temperature: -50°C
Siachen Glacier, nestled in the northern Karakoram range, stands as India’s coldest place, boasting bone-chilling temperatures reaching minus 50 degrees Celsius in January. Situated at an altitude of 5,753 meters, it’s a hostile territory nestled amidst the India-Pakistan conflict. Only army personnel brave its icy expanse, equipped with specialized gear to combat extreme cold and treacherous conditions. Tragically, heavy snowfall and avalanches have claimed numerous lives in this perilous region.
Second Coldest Place of India – Dras
Recorded Temperature: -45°C
Dras, deemed the second coldest inhabited place in India, lies in Kargil town, Ladakh. Situated at an altitude of 3280 meters, it serves as the ‘Gateway to Ladakh’ and a base for pilgrims visiting Amarnath cave and Sialkot. Its scenic landscapes and bone-chilling cold, with temperatures plummeting to minus 45 degrees Celsius in winter, make it home to the Dras War Memorial, honoring Kargil war martyrs. Ideal visitation occurs from June to September.
India’s Third Coldest Place – Leh Ladakh
Recorded temperature: -30°C
Leh Ladakh, nestled in the northernmost part of India near the Himalayan mountain ranges, stands as the third coldest place in India. With an altitude of 6000 meters, it experiences temperatures ranging from minus 12 to minus 2 degrees Celsius. The town of Leh boasts unique landscapes, Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, and stunning natural attractions. However, winter brings harsh conditions with heavy snowfall and temperatures plunging to minus 35 degrees Celsius, making it a challenging yet mesmerizing destination.