Winter has arrived, and it is making up for the previous several years. Some people, like me, enjoy exploring new locations in the chilly weather while others prefer to spend their holidays and free time snuggled up in blankets drinking hot chocolate . There are numerous locations to visit in India during the winter that will pull you out of your warm beds and encourage you to take advantage of the season to the fullest, from the enchanted Himachal Pradesh to the tranquil Kerala.
10. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, also known as the “Venice of the East,” attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world throughout the year. The reason for this is the magnificent Lake Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, Jag Mandir, Lake Pichola, and other medieval-era marvels. The number of visitors spikes in the winter, when the lakes and surrounding Aravali hills work together to keep the temperature just right for sightseeing. If you are a fan of traditional performances, plan your trip during the Shilpgram Arts and Crafts Festival.
9. Wayanad, Kerala
Want to spend the winter in a hill station but can’t stand the cold? Travel to Wayanad for a dream vacation in the midst of the Western Ghats. This picturesque town in ‘God’s Own Country’ – Kerala – has everything one looks for on a holiday – food, culture, history, and friendly people. To add to the excitement, Wayanad has several bird watching spots and trekking trails that draw visitors from all over the country.
8. Goa
The arrival of winter signals the start of the party season all around the world. And what better spot to begin your New Year’s celebrations than Goa, India’s party capital? This resort is ideal for a winter break due to its pleasant atmosphere, calm beaches, a variety of water sports, pounding nightclubs, and parties that last till dawn. Aside from that, visitors flock to Goa for the Goa Carnival, Goa Film Festival, and Christmas celebrations.
7. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
Want to camp under the stars in sub-zero temperatures on the world’s largest salt sand desert? Then, during the winter, visit Rann of Kutch. This place looks like something out of a dream. It is famous for the Rann Utsav, a two-month long cultural festival. Traditional cuisine, authentic handicrafts, desert safaris, and stargazing, all accompanied by a vast expanse of white land, what a sight! The Kutch Festival attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world, so we recommend making your reservations well in advance.
6. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
Dalhousie, another hill station in Himachal Pradesh, but unlike any other, is ideal for anyone who enjoys colonial charm. As the temperature drops below freezing and the chilly breeze invites you to come out and have the time of your life, winter brings out the best in this place. Dalhousie hosts the National Himalayan Winter Trekking Expedition in December, attracting a large number of trekking enthusiasts.
5. Binsar, Uttarakhand
Binsar is a lesser-known name among hill stations to visit in India during the winter. But believe us when we say it’s one of the most breathtaking places you’ll ever see. It is a charming little hill station in Uttarakhand with breathtaking views of the cloud-touching peaks of Kedarnath, Trishul, and Nanda Devi, making it a photographer’s dream. The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, which has a wide variety of flora and fauna species, adds to the excitement of this hill resort.
4. Auli, Uttarakhand
Want to learn to ski while the majestic peaks of Nanda Devi, Neelkanth, and Mana Parbat watch over you? Then you must travel to Auli, India’s best skiing destination! While it has lush green valleys almost all year, visiting during peak winters allows you to see it in a completely different light. The landscape is blanketed in snow, the region’s numerous ski resorts are packed with vacationers, and adrenaline junkies are on their way to conquer the snow-covered slopes.
3. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali, India’s favourite winter destination, has towering mountains, deodar trees, winding roads, and heavy snowfall. This Himachal Pradesh hill station is a snow lover’s, honeymooner’s, and adventurer’s dream. Manali will leave you with a memorable experience, whether it is a biking trip to Rohtang Pass, paragliding in Solang Valley, or hiking up to the Jogini Waterfalls.
2. Shimla-Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla-Kufri is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in North India for those who enjoy snowfall. Himachal’s capital city is surrounded by rolling hills and snow-covered forests, allowing for a variety of adventure activities. The numerous restaurants that line the Mall road provide the ideal setting for taking in panoramic views of the Himalayas while sipping a cup of hot tea.
1. Gulmarg, Kashmir
Gulmarg is first on our list. This hill town in India’s northernmost state is magical all year, but its allure is amplified when winter arrives. The snow-covered landscape and frozen lakes make this location ideal for snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding. Adventurers can satisfy their desire for an adrenaline rush by trekking on one of the many trails that become more difficult during the season.
