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Enjoy a Truly White Winter

Living in a country that lies right smack on the Equator line and being stuck with a climate of year-round heat and humidity, it’s no wonder why many Singaporeans have almost an obsession with snow and winter travel destinations.

Snow will always represent an exotic and novel experience for us, and offer us a refreshing change from our everyday environment. How many times have you visualised yourself gliding down the slopes, looking with awe at snow-covered landscapes, or huddling around a cosy fire amidst a chilly winter atmosphere? There’s just a magical appeal about snow.

We may never be able to experience the true “winter wonderland” feeling in Singapore (“Yeah, right, and it’ll snow in Singapore tomorrow!” is a sarcastic saying for a reason) but that’s exactly why you should consider these next Asian destinations for a year-end vacation — for the chance to experience a truly white winter.

 

Gapyeong, South Korea

Many travellers will flock to the popular ski resorts in South Korea, but we have a little gem to share that may be lesser known, but not any less amazing. Just an hour northeast of Seoul lies Gapyeong-gun county, which offers amazing snowy landscapes and winter activities for the whole family.

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Nami Island

Nami Island is famous for being where ‘Winter Sonata’ was partly filmed, but also because it is a micronation with its own flag, postage stamps, passport and national anthem. Although the tiny island is only 5km big, you will need an entry visa and passport to visit! The island’s popular Metasequoia Lane transforms into a winter wonderland in December, perfect for visitors to enjoy a serene walk along the snow-covered, tree-lined forest paths. For the more adventurous – skip the ferry and zipline onto the island instead! (Watch this Nami Island promotional video)
 

Gapyeong Sledding Hills

Gapyeong Sledding Hills features a beginner slope and an intermediate slope, both accessible via a moving walkway, so no huffing and puffing needed to get back to the top! Sledding is a great way for kids and parents alike to experience winter sports without heading to a ski resort. In winter, these snow-covered slopes open for the season in early December as soon as there is snow. In summer, it turns into a giant water slide.

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Lighting Festival

The annual winter-time Lighting Festival at The Garden of Morning Calm (1 Dec 2024 – 16 Mar 2025) is absolutely not to be missed. This is when the garden comes alive through the magic of illumination, and it’s like stepping into a colourful fairytale realm. With more than 30,000 LED displays, it’s Korea’s largest light festival, and the first to combine artificial light with a natural environment. The lights come on at sunset and stay on until 9pm; till 11pm on Saturdays.
 

Gapyeong Singsing Trout Festival

Towards the end of December, around Christmas time, the Gapyeong Singsing Trout Festival gets underway. This is when the community gathers around the areas of Gapyeongcheon Stream in Jaraseom Island to celebrate all things winter. Expect fun winter activities such as snow sledding, bumper cars on ice, as well as vendors selling piping hot street food and drinks. The highlight, of course, is ice fishing! Even if you don’t come away with an icy catch, it is quite the experience, especially if you’ve never tried it before!
 

Eobi Valley

Finally, you can’t travel all the way to Gapyeong county without visiting the spectacular Eobi Valley (aka Eobigyegok Valley). “Eobi” refers to the flying fish that swim in the clear waters here, but in winter, the water in the valley freezes over, forming a majestic ice wall. As sunlight reflects against the ice formations, the surface of ice crystals glistens and shimmers, a mesmerising showcase of nature’s artistry. You won’t find a more beautiful backdrop for your Instagram travel pictures!


Shimla, India

While many may think it’s always hot in India, its northern region actually offers cool, crisp winters. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Shimla transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland in December, with its snowy peaks, brisk Himalayan air, and charming colonial hill station atmosphere.

Interesting fact: Back in the colonial days, the British officials and their families actually flocked to Shimla in the summer months to escape the scorching heat of the Indian plains.

Shimla welcomes winter from November to February, but December is one of the coldest months with an average of 4°C – dipping to -2°C – so pack warm! To see the valley blanketed in snow, it’s best to visit in the second half of December, just to play it safe.

Narkanda is where you should be if skiing is your thing, but we’re here to share some of the other wonderful things you can also do in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh in northern India.

 

Shaily Peak

This majestic hill in Naldehra offers breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains. Expect serene beauty, panoramic views of lush forests, and enthralling views from the crest. The best way to reach Shaily Peak is actually to take a pony ride, which allows you to soak in your peaceful, snow-clad surroundings in peace. If you’re looking for Shimla’s most picture-postcard-worthy spot, this is it.


 

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Kufri

Whether you’re after snow, winter sports, or just plain fun, head to Kufri. Usually a quaint little town, Kufri turns into a snowy paradise in winter, offering skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, ice-skating, and pony and yak rides. You can also ride the cable car, visit the amusement park Kufri Fun World, spot Himalayan animals at the Himalayan Nature Park, or arrange for a homestay for an authentic cultural experience.

 

Tattapani

For the thrillseekers, Tattapani is one of the best white-water rafting spots in the world, luring millions of visitors each year. If you’ve never tried rafting in winter, well, be prepared for an unforgettable experience! If you end up “frozen” after that, Tattapani is also renowned for its natural hot springs, which are believed to also have therapeutic properties.
 

Rohru

Rohru is a lesser-known picturesque town in Shimla, but an absolute hidden gem. Dotted with apple orchards, it’s also known as “Apple Valley” and famed for its high-quality apples. While the apple harvest will be over by December, it’s a whole other experience to see all the apple orchards completely covered in snow. Adrenalin junkies will also love Rohru for the trekking, paragliding and hang gliding it offers. You can also have your hand at trout fishing on the banks of the Pabbar River.

 

The Ridge

The Ridge in Shimla City is the local hangout. An open space right in the heart of the city, people congregate at The Ridge to stroll around the Lakkar Bazaar, savour Indian cuisine along the eateries, shop for kitsch souvenirs in small shops, and most importantly in winter — play in the snow! Because snow is simply everywhere in this wide open space, this is where you’ll find kids making snow angels, building snowmen, and having snowball fights right out in the open.

 

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Toy Train

There are many ways to get to Shimla, but riding the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train comes most highly recommended. Of course, it isn’t actually a toy but a working train that’s simply made smaller (and therefore also cuter) to run on the narrow gauge around the mountainous terrain. This remnant of colonial times may take 5-6 hours to get to Shimla (compared to a 3-4 hour taxi ride from Chandigarh) but it’s a beautifully scenic journey through the Himalayan Queen Railway that passes through 102 tunnels, 864 bridges, and 919 curves! This cherished gem is not only one of the most iconic of India’s railway journeys but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  
 

Nepal

Nepal is the land of mountains, with the Himalayas decorating much of the country. Winter season in Nepal goes from late November until February, and is the best time to witness the snow-covered peaks and experience the chilling cold of the Himalayas.

Although temperatures can dip into the negative, there is still gentle winter sunlight, which shines through the quiet, still forests, and shimmers across the frozen lakes. For breathtaking views and an unparalleled sense of peace, head to Nepal this winter.

 

Kalinchowk

What makes Kalinchowk a popular winter destination are the winter sports it offers, such as snow trekking, skiing, snowboarding, and white water rafting. There is also a cable car ride from the Kalinchowk hilltop, which presents stunning views of the snowy Himalayan peaks. From December to February, snowfall is also common, which draws the crowds who simply want to stay in a charming lodge and play in the snow!

 

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Everest Flight

Many of us don’t dream of summiting the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest (8,848 metres), but it doesn’t mean we don’t dream of experiencing its beauty in a less strenuous way!

Many travel agencies offer a 1-hour Mount Everest Scenic Flight Tour that takes off from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Because it’s a really tiny plane, you’re guaranteed a window seat from which to admire the spectacular Himalayan range, with over 90 peaks.

December is the prime time to enjoy this mountain flight as you can clearly see and take in the true grandeur of the snowy Himalayan landscape and glaciers during the flight. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will really stay with you for the rest of your life.
 

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Pokhara

Pokhara is a mecca for adventure seekers, because it’s where you can embark on winter treks (Everest and Annapurna base camps are the most popular; Poon Hill for a short trek), or enjoy a truly panoramic aerial experience of the snow-capped mountains while paragliding or hang gliding. This is also where you’ll find the steepest zipline on the planet — you start so high up that you’re simply in the clouds!

For a calmer winter experience in Pokhara, ‘the jewel in the Himalaya’, you can witness the stunning sunrise from Sarangkot, or go boating on the lakes and enjoy the gorgeous reflections of the towering peaks in the peaceful water.  

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Credit: Michelle Jean


Chitwan National Park

One of the most famous national parks in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chitwan National Park offers a unique winter experience surrounded by nature. Winter is the perfect season for wildlife safaris, where you can spot rhinos, tigers, birds, and other animals. Wake up before the sun rises and take a calm, peaceful walk through the forest while it’s still misty and cool. Listen to the sounds of the wildlife scurrying across the forest, and watch as elephants roam freely across the plains, joining you on your morning walk.


Winter in Asia

So, where will it be this winter? Gapyeong in Korea, Shimla in India, or the Himalayas in Nepal? Whichever you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a truly memorable winter experience characterised by snow, freezing temperatures, and adventure! Make sure you’re well prepared for your winter adventures with the right travel insurance, and get it early (at least 30 days before departure) to enjoy all the pre-trip benefits! Have a wonderful white winter!