If you love exploring new places in India, then winter is the ideal season for you. You can enjoy the cold weather without any guilt and indulge in various adventures and feasts. Also, with the arrival of the festive season, there is a lot of joy and celebration all around. The best time to shop and travel… + Read More

If you love exploring new places in India, then winter is the ideal season for you. You can enjoy the cold weather without any guilt and indulge in various adventures and feasts. Also, with the arrival of the festive season, there is a lot of joy and celebration all around. The best time to shop and travel is during winter. In this season, especially you can find all the amazing deals. If you are planning a winter trip, we have many great travel packages for both inside and outside the country.

Some places look magical during winter. The mountains are covered with snow, the beaches look even more beautiful, and the old forts and palaces look amazing in the fog. If you're looking to book winter travel but don't want the hassle of planning it, keep reading.

WINTER HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS IN INDIA

Imagine the feel of the cool breeze on your face as you set out to explore the best places to visit in India during winter. The vast landscapes of India offer so many options that it can be difficult to choose one among them. So, to make things easy, here is a list of best places to visit in winter in India.

TOP-SELLING WINTER HOLIDAY PACKAGES IN INDIA

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN WINTER IN INDIA

Winter in India is like a magical journey. You can either relax on pristine beaches or challenge yourself with skiing adventures in snowy mountains. If you love cozying up beside a fireplace in a peaceful hill station or just watching the soft snowfall, India has it all. Winter is the most suitable time to visit the historical sites of the country.

♦ Goa and Kovalam: The beach destinations of Goa and Kovalam in the west and south are perfect for sunbathing and chilling out. For the thrill-seekers, the northern Himalayas offer exciting snowy treks. And with winter being the wedding season, many places, both in the north and south, transform into romantic getaways for honeymooning couples.

For family holidays, places like Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, and Goa are top picks. Elderly visitors often prefer Gujarat for its spiritual temples and sacred sites.

♦ Goa, the party hub of India, is super fun in winter. Picture yourself sunbathing on its beaches, celebrating during Christmas and New Year's beach parties, indulging in yummy seafood, watching Bollywood performances, and joining in festive celebrations. Don't miss the peaceful walks in the Portuguese quarters. And for those on their honeymoon, Goa's beaches are a dream. The energetic flea markets and beach parties ensure an unforgettable trip. Plus, there are many Goa travel packages for easy planning.

♦ Rajasthan, with its royal legacy, comes alive during winter. Dive into a mix of history, culture, and tradition in this grand state. Hear tales of great palaces and forts, enjoy the local arts, music, and food. And if you're there, a desert safari in the Thar Desert is a must-do winter activity.

♦ Udaipur, the City of Lakes, is another gem. Often called the Venice of the East, it's a perfect blend of lakes, palaces, and temples. Couples and travelers find the city to be a romantic paradise. A boat ride on Lake Pichola while taking in the views of the grand palaces-turned-resorts is a highlight. Some top spots in Udaipur are:

o City Palace: A stunning blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.

o Jag Mandir: A beautiful palace on Lake Pichola's island.

o Jagdish Temple: A historic Hindu temple known for its detailed carvings.

o Monsoon Palace: Located on a hill, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

 o Lake Pichola: The heart of Udaipur, this lake adds to the city's allure.

♦ Jaipur - When winter rolls in, Jaipur is the place to be. It's the capital of Rajasthan and has some seriously cool forts and palaces to check out. Plus, the culture and food? Awesome. There's great music, events, and it's really one of the top spots in North India. If you're there, don't miss the Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, Jal Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar.

♦ Delhi - Delhi's the buzzing capital of India. Winter here is vibrant with folks visiting monuments, parks, and munching at eateries. If you're a history buff, you've got the Qutub Minar, Red Fort, and Humayun's Tomb. And, if you're into shopping and food, Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place should be on your list. Perfect for a winter trip!

♦Kerala - Think of Kerala as nature's paradise. It's the go-to spot for winter honeymooners. Gorgeous beaches, green forests, wildlife, and tea gardens, it's relaxation central! A must-do? The houseboat tours. There's also spa treatments, markets, and tea gardens. Oh, and let's not forget the national parks.

♦ Alleppey - If you love peaceful winter holidays, then Alleppey is your place. It's best known for its backwaters. Imagine cruising on a houseboat, just taking in the beauty. And if you fancy beaches, Marari and Alappuzha Beach are perfect spots. For those into history, check out the Krishnapuram Palace and the Basilica of St. Mary.

♦Tamil Nadu - Welcome to a winter wonderland of culture! Tamil Nadu is home to stunning temples like Meenakshi Temple, Shore Temple, and Ramanathaswamy Temple. Not to mention, if you want a break from the heat, Ooty's cool climate is perfect. The state offers a mix of temples, beaches, mountains, and wildlife. So much to see!

♦ Hampi - Ever been to a city of ruins? Hampi's your spot! And January is a prime time to visit thanks to the Hampi Festival. Puppets, music, dance, you name it. Some key spots to check out: Virupaksha Temple, Matanga Hill, Vittala Temple, and Hazara Rama Temple.

♦ Jaisalmer - Called the "Golden City", visiting between October to March is a treat. You have to see the Jaisalmer Fort and roam its mysterious lanes. Also, check out havelis like Patwon Ki and Nathmal Ki. And if you're there in February, the Desert Festival is a carnival of culture! Don't forget Bada Bagh, the Folklore Museum, and the Sam sand dunes - camel rides at sunset are magical.

♦ Shimla - It's like the Queen of all hill stations. Winter in Shimla? Snowy peaks, lovely walks, and fresh mountain air. If you're up for sightseeing, hit Mall Road, The Ridge, Christ Church, and Jakhu Hill. For some winter sports fun, Kufri's your spot. And for cricket fans, Chail has the world's highest cricket ground.

♦ Rishikesh - If you're into yoga or want some spiritual peace, Rishikesh should be on your list. With the majestic Ganges flowing by, it's perfect for meditation. But it's not all calm – there's bungee jumping, river rafting, and cliff jumping! Spiritually speaking, there are loads of ashrams, and the Beatles Ashram is a highlight. And for some local feels, walk across the Lakshman Jhula bridge.

♦ Auli - Want a winter wonderland? Auli in Uttarakhand is the place for skiing in India. Aside from skiing, the cable car rides offer views that'll leave you speechless. If you're not into skiing, there's always hiking, trekking, and camping to get in touch with nature.

♦ Nainital: Imagine a place where serene lakes are framed by the Himalayas - that's Nainital for you. Must-dos? A boat ride on Nainital Lake, trekking up to Naini Peak for some gorgeous views, and hopping on the Aerial Ropeway to see the city from up high. If you're a wildlife enthusiast, don't miss the nearby Jim Corbett National Park - the Royal Bengal Tiger might say hi! Nainital is a serene beauty, perfect for nature lovers.

♦ Darjeeling: Ever wanted to sip tea while looking at the world's third highest peak, Khangchendzonga? Head to Darjeeling. Hop on the iconic toy train, a UNESCO site, and meander through rolling hills. If you're a tea lover, the gardens here are world-famous. Don't forget to visit the tranquil Ghoom Monastery for a touch of spirituality. Love shopping? The bazaars in Darjeeling have treasures waiting for you. And for the adventurous, treks in the region are as enchanting as they are challenging. Darjeeling is where old-world charm meets breathtaking nature.

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN NORTH INDIA IN WINTER

When the cold sets in, North India turns straight into a winter utopia. Think snow-capped mountains, Disney movie-like frozen lakes, and cozy mountain towns covered in snow. Whether you're up for some laid back vibes or want to be a full-out action hero, North India has got you covered. So stay tuned as we bring you the lowdown on the busiest places to be when it's sweater weather up north. Ready? let's do this!

Manali: Winter Magic Central

Nestled in the Himalayas, Manali is essentially a winter paradise. Think dreamy snowy scenes and action-packed adventures that will make your winter Insta feed a goal.

Snow-covered Landscapes

During winters Manali turns into a real life snow globe. Picture glistening slopes, frozen waterfalls and all the snowball fights you can handle. Want to bite some powder? There is also snowboarding and skiing.

Adventure Sports

If you are an adventurous type of traveler, then Manali is the place for you. You can hit the slopes at Solang Valley, which is like a skiing mecca. But if skiing isn't your forte, there's plenty more to do – like paragliding, zorbing and getting around on snowmobiles.

Solang Valley

Solang Valley is a must visit when you are in Manali. The place is a hotspot for winter sports, and the cable car ride and spectacular ski slopes make it a bucket-list destination.

Kashmir: The Paradise on Earth

People call Kashmir the "Paradise on Earth" and it's like stepping into a magical snow globe when winters arrive.

Snow-capped Mountains

The views in Kashmir are next level. If you are interested in skiing or want to click some epic photographs then do visit famous ski resorts like Gulmarg and Pahalgam.

Houseboats on Dal Lake

In Srinagar, it's the lake, Dal Lake, that has houseboats that you can actually live in. Imagine waking up on a frozen lake with snow covered trees all around. Yes, it's great.

Gulmarg Ski Resort

If you are into skiing then you will want to stay here. Gulmarg has these open-ended snowy hills and a cable car ride that will take you to the Afarwat peak. Trust us, this is one ride you won't forget.

Shimla: Queen of the Hills

Shimla's got that old-world magic. With its British-era vibes, snowy streets, and killer views, it's the go-to winter spot.

Victorian Architecture

Shimla’s got these super cool British-style buildings, like the Christ Church and Viceregal Lodge. Just cruising down Mall Road and checking them out is like a mini-history lesson.

Mall Road

This is the pulse of Shimla. Mall Road's got everything – shops, cafes, you name it. Plus, in winter, they deck the place out with lights, so you can munch on some hot snacks while you wander through a winter postcard.

Kufri

Just a hop away from Shimla, Kufri's another must-see. Skiing, tobogganing, go-karting, you got options. Or, you know, take it easy with a pony ride while you soak up all that natural beauty.

Nainital: Serene Lakes and Hills

Nainital in winter is all about peaceful, snow-covered hills and lakes that look like they're straight outta a painting.

Naini Lake

This lake is the crown jewel of Nainital. You can go boating or just chill lakeside, but either way, you’re surrounded by snowy hills. It’s legit picture-perfect.

Naini Peak

Wanna see Nainital and the Himalayas from the top? Trek up to Naini Peak. The hike’s got a couple of white-knuckle moments but trust us, the views are worth it.

Snow View Point

Hop on a cable car or just hoof it to get here. Once you do, the sight of the Himalayas, including peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul, will make you wanna whip out that camera. Oh, and they've got a little temple and a tea stall, so you can sip something hot while you take in the views.

Dalhousie: Tranquil Hill Station

Dalhousie's got that throwback charm, pristine beauty, and peace and quiet. All the things you want in a chill winter getaway.

Khajjiar

Dubbed the "Mini Switzerland of India," this place is a scenic jackpot near Dalhousie. Think snow-covered plains surrounded by thick forests. Go horse riding, roll around in a zorb, or just take a nature walk. Your call!

Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

This is the spot for nature buffs. In winter, it’s like walking through a snowy Narnia, and you might even spot deer or jackals. Seriously, it’s a winter jungle safari.

Dainkund Peak

It’s the tallest point around Dalhousie, and the trek to get there is straight-up epic. Once you're up there, you'll feel like you're on top of the world, or at least on top of a super gorgeous slice of it.

Uttarakhand: Heaven on Earth, Literally

Uttarakhand is what dream vacations are made of. Snowy peaks, spiritual vibes, and endless adventure. Here's what you gotta check out:

Mussoorie: The Hill Queen

Mussoorie is like a postcard that came to life. Snowy Himalayan views, green valleys, and that buzzing Mall Road. Go horse riding, hop on a cable car, or just take a chill walk. Your Instagram's gonna love it here.

Rishikesh: Yoga and Rapids

Rishikesh is where you find your zen and get your adrenaline rush. You can hit a yoga retreat or take on the Ganges with some white-water rafting. Oh, and don't miss the Ganga Aarti; it's pure magic, especially in winter.

Auli: Ski Like a Pro

Beginner or pro, Auli's ski slopes are where you wanna be. The views of Nanda Devi and the whole winter sports vibe? Awesome doesn't even cover it.

Amritsar: Golden Views and History Lessons

Amritsar in winter is like stepping into a history book with a side of spirituality.

Golden Temple

Look, the Golden Temple is something else. The whole place lights up, and the vibe is just...calming and uplifting at the same time. This is bucket-list-level stuff.

Jallianwala Bagh

It's a garden with a heavy past, reminding you of India's fight for freedom. In winter, it's got this quiet, reflective vibe.

Wagah Border: Patriotism Overload

Ever seen soldiers from India and Pakistan almost dance while they lower the flags? Well, it happens every day at Wagah Border, and it’s a spectacle you don’t wanna miss.

Jim Corbett: Where The Wild Things Are

Fancy spotting a tiger or elephant in the wild? Head to Jim Corbett National Park this winter.

Safari Time

Jeep, elephant, or canter, pick your safari style and go wildlife spotting. You'll have an expert guide spitting facts and helping you see all the hidden gems.

Dhikala Zone

This is like the VIP section of Jim Corbett. It's remote, packed with wildlife, and you can even stay overnight. So, if you're after that total 'Into the Wild' experience, you know where to go.

Ready to pack your bags yet? Whether you're into snowy slopes, soul-searching, or safari rides, we've got you all sorted for your winter getaway! 

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SOUTH INDIA IN WINTER

South India: Your Winter Wonderland, Tropical Style!

Dreaming of escaping the winter chill? South India's got you covered, from lush landscapes to cultural richness.

Coorg: Coffee Country

Picture this: strolling through coffee plantations, feeling the mist on your face. Coorg is a perfect winter retreat for nature geeks and culture buffs. Go trekking, take a river raft, or delve into the local Kodava culture.

Munnar: Green Heaven

Tea gardens as far as the eye can see and exotic wildlife to boot. Munnar is a hill station where you can literally chill without feeling chilly! Try Ayurvedic spa treatments and make a trip to the Eravikulam National Park.

Rameshwaram: Pilgrimage and a Beach

Looking for a spiritual vibe? Rameshwaram offers ancient temples and sandy shores. Don't forget to check out the Pamban Bridge, a true engineering marvel.

Pondicherry: France, Is That You?

Get a taste of French culture without leaving India. Pondicherry offers cobblestone streets, cute cafes, and the spiritual community of Auroville. Also, water sports, because why not?

Kerala: Tropical Paradise

Alleppey backwaters, Kochi's fishing nets, Malabar cuisine, and the famous Ayurveda therapies—Kerala has a winter recipe that's more spice than ice.

Andaman: Coral Dreams

If an island escape is what you're after, Andaman Islands will blow your mind. Think snorkeling, historic sites, and bio-luminescent beaches. Yes, the beaches glow in the dark!

Ooty: Cool Heights

How about taking a vintage train through the mountains? Ooty's tea gardens, boat rides, and colonial architecture will make you want to stay forever.

Hampi: Stone and Stories

Think of Hampi as an open-air museum that's millennia old. The ruins, the sculptures, the river: it's a history buff’s Disneyland.

North East India: Winter Wonders, Cultural Tapestry, and Untamed Wilderness

Welcome back to our travel series! This time, let's venture into the mesmerizing landscapes and cultural richness of North East India, an often-overlooked treasure trove of experiences. Here's your guide to making the most of a winter trip in this diverse region.

Sikkim: Himalayan Dream

Picture snow-capped mountains, Buddhist monasteries, and a hot cup of local tea. That's Sikkim for you. Don't skip on Tsomgo Lake and the Yumthang Valley, also known as the Valley of Flowers.

Shillong: Melodies Amidst the Mist

Often dubbed the "Scotland of the East," Shillong offers more than just visual delights. From the iconic Elephant Falls to the lively Shillong Autumn Festival, it's a destination for nature lovers and music aficionados alike.

Darjeeling: Of Toy Trains and Tea Trails

Forget stress when you're in Darjeeling, riding the quaint Toy Train through the mountains or sipping world-famous tea as you gaze at the sun rising over Mount Everest from Tiger Hill. It's both a nostalgic and rejuvenating experience.

Tawang: Where Spirituality Meets the Sky

Home to one of the world's largest monasteries, Tawang is where you can soak in Tibetan Buddhism and jaw-dropping landscapes. Don't miss the mesmerizing Sela Pass and the tranquil Madhuri Lake when you're there.

Assam: Rhinos, Ruins, and Robust Tea

Kickstart your North East India journey from Assam. Wildlife enthusiasts, mark Kaziranga National Park on your list. And the history buffs, explore the Ahom Kingdom's ancient ruins. Oh, and did we mention the tea?

Nagaland: A Vibrant Melting Pot

Welcome to the land of festivals, where culture and modernity intertwine. Nagaland is more than just scenic—it's a living, breathing mosaic of traditions. Witness this at the Hornbill Festival, a carnival of Naga life, in all its glory.

Ziro: Music in the Meadows

Ziro isn't just a place; it's an experience. With its Music Festival, this UNESCO World Heritage Site transforms into a cultural haven for artists and spectators. And if you're into trekking, Talley Valley awaits!

Manipur: A Symphony of Nature and Culture

From the ancient Kangla Fort to the natural wonder that is Loktak Lake, Manipur is a potpourri of history, culture, and unparalleled beauty. With adventures like trekking and river rafting on offer, you're unlikely to have a dull moment.

So there you have it, a curated list that takes you from the snowy peaks of Tawang to the rolling hills of Shillong and the festival grounds of Nagaland. Whether you're a seeker of solitude, a cultural explorer, or an adventure junkie, North East India has something for everyone. So grab your travel gear and head east for an unforgettable winter escapade!