When we think of snow in India, our minds instantly drift to the snow-capped Himalayas, skiing in Gulmarg, or sipping hot chai in a Himachal homestay while watching the flakes fall gently outside. But what about the other end of the country? Does it snow in South India?
If you’ve ever wondered whether the southern states of India — Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana — ever experience snowfall, you’re not alone. It’s an intriguing question, especially considering South India is known for its tropical climate, beaches, backwaters, and swaying coconut trees. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find that this region still holds some chilly surprises.
Let’s uncover the truth.
The Geography and Climate of South India
South India lies closer to the equator, which naturally makes it warmer and more humid throughout the year compared to the north. Most of its terrain falls under tropical monsoon and savanna climate zones, characterized by hot summers, a wet monsoon season, and mild winters.
But despite the generally warm climate, South India isn’t just about palm trees and heat. The region is also home to the Western and Eastern Ghats—mountain ranges that feature hilly, forested terrains and elevated regions with significantly cooler temperatures.
So, does this elevation mean snow?
Let’s Talk About Snow
To put it simply: South India doesn’t get snowfall in the traditional sense — not the way Manali or Kashmir do, with thick snow blankets, snowball fights, or ski resorts. But that doesn’t mean cold weather is absent.
Here are a few places that come close to snowy conditions:
1. Ooty and Coonoor (Tamil Nadu)
Located in the Nilgiri Hills at an elevation of over 2,000 meters (6,500 ft), these hill stations are known for their crisp air, rolling tea gardens, and pleasant climate. In winter, temperatures here can drop to as low as 0°C (32°F) or even slightly below.
Does it snow?
Nope, not real snow. But you might see frost forming on grass and leaves during especially cold mornings — a phenomenon that often gets mistaken for snow by enthusiastic tourists.
2. Munnar (Kerala)
Munnar, the jewel of Kerala’s Western Ghats, sits at an elevation of about 1,600 metres. It has a charming cold-weather climate, particularly between December and February, when early morning temperatures can drop to 1-2°C.
Does it snow?
Still no — but just like in Ooty, frost and icy dew can be seen glistening over tea leaves at dawn. A few rare and unconfirmed reports of hail or sleet exist, but no actual snowfall.
3. Chikmagalur and Coorg (Karnataka)
Known for their coffee plantations and lush hills, these regions are cooler than the lowlands and offer refreshing winters. Chikmagalur, nestled at 1,090 meters above sea level, enjoys chilly weather in December and January.
Does it snow?
Not quite. It can get misty and foggy, and temperatures may dip below 10°C, but no snowfall has been officially recorded.
4. Lambasingi (Andhra Pradesh) – The “Kashmir of South India”
If you’re looking for the closest thing to snow in South India, Lambasingi is your best bet. This sleepy village in the Eastern Ghats is located at an altitude of around 1,000 meters and is often enveloped in fog and chill during winter months.
Does it snow here?
Now here’s the twist — Lambasingi is the only place in South India where snow has been reported, albeit very rarely. Local legends and old timers claim that light snowfall occurred here a few decades ago, but such events are extremely rare and more folklore than regular occurrences.
That said, temperatures here can go as low as 0°C, and frost is quite common between December and January. The landscape in the early morning hours, blanketed in fog and shimmering with dew, might just make you feel like you’re in a snowy village.
Why Snow Is So Rare in South India
Let’s get a bit scientific here. Snowfall typically requires three key ingredients:
Very low temperatures (usually below 0°C at ground level)
Moisture in the atmosphere
Elevated terrain
While South India has hills and mountains that reach over 2,000 meters, the latitude of the region works against it. Being closer to the equator, temperatures — even at higher elevations — rarely drop low enough for snow precipitation. Instead, the region sees cool winds, frost, and dense fog, especially in winter.
So, Where Should You Go for a “Snow-Like” Experience?
If you’re in South India and longing for a wintery escape, your best choices include:
Lambasingi, AP – for real cold and maybe frost
Ooty, TN – for chilly, misty mornings
Munnar, Kerala – for tea gardens with frosty dew
Kodaikanal, TN – A Charming Cold-Weather Retreat
Yercaud, TN – less touristy but pleasantly cool
And of course, if you’re truly craving snow, a trip to North India’s hill stations (like Shimla, Manali, or Auli) is still the way to go.
Fun Fact: Artificial Snow in South India?
Given the increasing popularity of snow-themed parks and experiences, places like Snow City in Bangalore or Snow World in Hyderabad and Chennai now offer artificial snow rooms where you can enjoy sub-zero temperatures, snow slides, and even snowball fights — all indoors!
While not the same as natural snowfall, they’re still a fun, family-friendly way to experience the feel of winter in a tropical land.
Final Thoughts
So, does it snow in South India? The honest answer is almost never — but that doesn’t mean the region lacks charm or cool-weather appeal. The high-altitude hill stations and remote hamlets offer a unique winter vibe, full of misty mornings, crisp air, and sometimes even frost-covered landscapes.
Snow or no snow, South India has a serene and scenic winter personality of its own — one that’s worth exploring, especially if you’re seeking peace, beauty, and a break from the heat.
Got a favourite chilly spot in South India? Or witnessed an exceptionally cold day somewhere unexpected? Share your experience in the comments!
