As they said “Winter is Coming” in Game of Thrones, here comes the winter season with its surprises and Christmas gifts. Firstly winter is all about lying in a cozy bed. You can find soaking sunlight, sipping hot coffees, and foggy mornings. Don’t you think this year has to be changed into something more exciting and adventurous? temples of india is a land of festivals and fairs celebrated throughout the year, Winter vacation is a major festival nowadays for Globetrotters. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, India offers you hill stations in india with scenic views, desserts welcoming travelers in winter without showing humidity and temperature, perfect beach holidays, and landscapes resembling postcard sceneries. From this article, you will get the best information about the 12 Best Places for Winter Vacation in India.
This is the best time for wanderers to explore this beautiful peninsula. As summer brings unbearable heat and humidity, winter is perfect for the sightseeing of beautiful mountains, glittering lakes, and snowy roofs. In fact, some of the most beautiful places in India are especially captivating during this season. Pack your bags, book your tickets, and go for an adventurous experience for life.
Top 12 winter holiday destinations in India
- Gulmarg
- Shimla-Manali
- Auli
- Gangtok
- Jaisalmer
- Tawang
- Rann of Kutch
- Goa
- Alleppey
- Andaman-Nicobar
- Shillong
- Udaipur
Gulmarg
Mainly, Gulmarg is the first one on our list, placed beautifully in the foothills of the Himalayas and situated in the Jammu Kashmir. Snow-covered peaks, broad canyons, majestical forests, plains of flowers all boast the charm of Gulmarg. Gulmarg is a famous destination among honeymooners, adventure seekers, photographers, and wanderers.
Places to visit
St Mary’s Church, Kongdori, Rani Temple, Ningle Nallah, Gulmarg Golf Course, Baba Reshi Shrine, Alpather Lake, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Strawberry Valley are the major tourist attractions in Gulmarg. However, if you’re contemplating your travel plans for January, exploring the best places to visit in january in india during that month can lead you to discover Gulmarg’s snowy wonderland and its unique winter experiences.
Things to do in Gulmarg
- Don’t miss the Gondola Ride (Cable Car Ride) as it is the largest cable ride in the Country.
- Mainly Gulmarg is a paradise for adventure lovers. Trekking, Mountaineering, snowboarding, and skiing are offered here by the Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM).
Shimla- Manali
Shimla-Manali is a must-visit place on winter vacation. It is situated in Himachal Pradesh. Shimla is popularly known as the “Queen of Hills” and Manali is an adventurer’s paradise on earth. Here you can enjoy gorgeous Deodar forests, serenity, and winding roads. That makes them beautiful and desirable places. Honeymooners, adventure lovers, solo travelers, and photographers book hotels in Manali for their comfy and relaxed stay.
Things to do
- Enjoy the Ride in Kalka-Shimla Train and feel the nostalgia of Bollywood films.
- Heritage walk in Shimla and sightseeing of the Ridge, Visceral Lodge, and Christ Church.
- Rafting at Beas River, Paragliding, and Skiing in Solang valley at Manali.
- Trekking and hiking in Triund and Kasol trek.
Auli
This is one of the best winter destinations in the Garhwal Region of Uttrakhand. Auli houses so many adventurous activities and offers the best skiing slopes. If you’re considering the best time to visit meghalaya or exploring other Indian destinations, Auli’s snow-covered landscapes in the winter are a must-see. This is beautifully covered in the blanket of snow, forests, magnificent mountains, beautiful oak trees that give unreal scenic views. Auli is like a beautiful painting covered with snow. The trip to Auli gives you a lifetime experience that you will cherish forever.
Places to visit
Gorson Bugyal, Cable Ride, Artificial lake, Chattrakund, Joshimath, Chenab Lake, Narsingh Temple are the best tourist spots in this place.
Things to do
- Visit the Joshimath, Nanda Devi National Park, and Trishul Peak.
- Go Shopping in the local market and buy souvenirs of Uttrakhand arts.
- Cable Car Ride is one of the prominent things to enjoy in this place.
- Trekking and Camping at Gorson Bugyal, This place offers adrenaline rushed skiing on the beautiful snowy slopes.
Gangtok
Apart from being home to the old Indo- China silk route. Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim. It is the major pilgrimage to Buddhists in India. From Honeymooners to solo travelers to nature lovers to peace seekers, Gangtok is a place of interest for everyone. Gangtok fascinates you with its beautiful monasteries, lush green flora-fauna, misty peaks of mountains, crystal clear lakes like no other city.
Places to visit
Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple, MG Marg, Nathula Pass, Himalayan Zoological Park, Ranka Monastery, Gangtok Ropeway, Tsomgo Lake, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Mt. Kanchenjunga are major tourist attractions in Gangtok.
Things to do
- Shopping in local markets and buying souvenirs like Buddhist prayer flags, Tibetan Carpets, and Sikkim Tea.
- Enjoy the Gangtok Cable Car ride and witness the charm of the city.
- Enjoy the adventure sports like Yak Riding, Mountain Biking, Paragliding, and River Rafting.
- Visit the Buddhist monasteries and seek peace and solace.
- Gangtok Cultural Food Festival is a must thing to take part in.
Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is quite famous as the “Golden City of Rajasthan” and you can’t overlook this magnificent city. It is located in the Thar Desert, is a fascinating place to visit in the winter. You can enjoy the “Arabian Nights” in the oasis of the desert and relax at the camp by doing star gazing. Jaisalmer is on the list of best winter places in India and you can book hotels in Jaisalmer for the best comfort and warmth.
Places to visit
Jaisalmer Fort, Jain Temples, Longewala War Memorial, Jaisalmer’s War Memorial, Bada Bagh, Kuldhara abandoned village, Desert Culture Centre & Museum, Kothari’s Patwaon ki Haveli, Gadsisar Lake, Sam Sand Dunes, Tanot Mata Temple are major tourist attractions of the city. However, if you’re planning your visit for December, discovering the best places to visit in december in india can lead you to experience the enchanting desert city of Jaisalmer during the winter months.
Things to do
- Witness the scenic beauty of the Jaisalmer’s Fort and City.
- Enjoy the adventure activities like Quad biking, dunes bashing, Parasailing, Desert Safari, and Camping.
- Watch the Indo-Pak Border, Puppet show at Desert Culture Centre & Museum, Camel Riding, and enjoy the sunset at desert camping.
Tawang
Tawang is an offbeat yet magnificent hill station situated in Arunachal Pradesh state. It is one of the major winter destinations in India. The serene beauty of Tawang is unmatchable as it is surrounded by crystal clear lakes, lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, and ancient monasteries. Torgya and Losar are major festivals of Tawang, you can attend these cultural events in January and February.
Places to visit
Sela Pass, Bumla Pass, Jaswant Garh, Nuranang Falls, Tawang War Memorial, Pangateng Tso Lake, Eagle Nest Wildlife Sanctuary, Tawang Buddhist Monastery, and Madhuri Lake are the major tourist attractions of Tawang.
Things to do
- Most importantly, Tibetan Settlement Market is a must-visit shopping place for tourists.
- Adventure seekers can go hiking on Gorichen Peak, enjoy the splendid beauty of Tawang at Sela Pass, and Nuranang waterfalls.
Rann of Kutch
Rann of Kutch commonly known as “White Desert” is situated in the Kutch district of Gujarat. It perfectly replicates the snow in winters and travelers love to visit here. December is considered the best time to visit Rann of Kutch. And a cultural festival called “Rann Utsav” is celebrated during this time. Cultural food, traditional handicrafts, stargazing, desert safari, and camel riding on white desert give you a next-level experience.
Places to visit
Kutch desert wildlife sanctuary, Rann of Kutch, Kutch Museum, Dholavira, Mandvi Beach Bhuj, Aaina Mahal Bhuj, Hamirsar Lake Bhuj, Parag Mahal Bhuj are some major tourist attractions you can find in and around Kutch.
Things to do
- Experience the Rann Utsav organized by Gujarat is the most prominent tourism festival in India.
- Visit the highest point in Rann of Kutch at Kala Dungar.
- Camping and Camel Riding are other activities you can enjoy in Rann of Kutch.
Goa
Goa is one of the most visited places in India, commonly known as “Party Capital of India” and why not. Loud beach night parties, delicious dishes, crazy mob, beautiful beaches, and electrifying atmosphere everything is available in Goa. It is the perfect getaway for party lovers. And also adventure seekers, solo travelers, and honeymooners. Goa Carnival, Goa Film Festival, Christmas Parties, and New Year parties of goa are widely known among travelers. You can enjoy the Caribbean vibe, Hippie lifestyle, and Indian culture with a perfect blend here throughout the year. Before the start of the party Bonanza. Book your Goa hotels and get a perfect vacation.
Places to visit
Fort Aguada, Calangute Beach, Anjuna Beach, Chapora Fort, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Baga Beach, Dona Paula, Arambol Beach, Vagator Beach, Se Cathedral, Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception are some of the best tourist spots in Goa.
Things to do
- Adventure seekers can enjoy the water sports at Baga Beach, Parasailing at Calangute beach, and Scuba Diving at Grand Island.
- You can experience the vibes of goa from Hot Air Balloon Ride, Bungee Jumping at Mayem Lake, and Paragliding in Anjuna beach.
- Visit the ancient Portuguese architectures like Aguada fort, Chapora fort, Se Cathedral, Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, and Basilica of Bom Jesus.
Alleppey
One can be relaxed in the soothing canal ride of these houseboats. If you’re considering places to visit in april in india, you’ll find that Allepey is full of lush greenery, Portuguese architecture, and boat races, making it an ideal destination to enjoy during this pleasant spring month. You can enjoy perfect vacations in winter here.
Places to visit
Marari Beach, Alappuzha Beach, Alappuzha Sree Krishna Temple, St. Mary’s Forane Church, Pathiramanal, Vembanad Lake, Alleppey Backwaters are the popular tourist attractions.
Things to do
You can Explore the Royal Krishnapuram Palace, St. Mary’s Forane Church, and learn the special art of Kalarayipattu.
Experience the backwaters, houseboat stays, and snake boat races in Alleppey.
Andaman-Nicobar
Andaman & Nicobar islands are tucked beautifully between the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman sea. If you’re looking for places to visit in summer in india, this archipelago provides a perfect escape. Apart from turquoise blue water beaches, Andaman-Nicobar has a touch of colonial rich history. It offers you serene beaches, virgin trails, and mesmerizing sunsets. Andaman & Nicobar comes under the list of most desirable best places to visit in India. It is quite popular between honeymooners, solo travelers, and photographers.
Places to visit
Cellular Jail, Ross Island, Makruzz, Radhanagar Beach, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Elephant Beach are places to visit in Andaman-Nicobar.
Things to do
- Mainly, Enjoy the water sports and Scuba Diving at beaches.
- Visit the famous cellular jail, Limestone Caves, Elephant beach, and Radhangar Beach.
Shillong
Shillong is popular as the “Music Capital of India” and “Scotland of East”. It is the capital city of Meghalaya. Natural beauty, delightful weather, beautiful waterfalls, and colonial legacy make Shillong a must-visit place. The crystal clear lakes, exciting museums, and serene mountain peaks attract tourists every year to Shillong.
Places to visit- Umiam Lake, Mawphlang Sacred Forest, Don Bosco Center for Indigenous Culture, Elephant falls, Ward’s lake, Laitlum Canyons, and Shillong peak are the best spots for travelers.
Things to do
- Enjoy the Colonial Architecture, Umiam Lake, and Elephant Falls.
- Visit the Don Bosco Center for Indigenous Culture and Shillong golf course.
Udaipur
Udaipur is popularly known as the “City of Lakes” situated in Rajasthan. Throughout the year Udaipur attracts the travelers of its charm and is called ‘Venice of the East. The Grand Royal forts, scenic lakes, rich flora & fauna, the colorful Bazars make Udaipur a charming destination among tourists. Book Udaipur hotels for your stay and explore the city with ease & comfort.
Places to visit
Pichola Lake, Fatehsagar Lake, City Palace, Lake Palace, Jag Mandir, Monsoon Palace, Ahar Museum, Saheliyon ki Bari, Gulab Bagh & Zoo, Sukhadia Circle, Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal, Shilpgram are the major spots to visit in Udaipur. To embark on a motorcycling leh ladakh, meticulous planning is essential. Riders must ensure they have the appropriate gear, including warm clothing, riding equipment, and essential supplies. Acclimatization to the high altitude is a must to avoid altitude sickness. It’s also advisable to have a well-maintained motorcycle, and many enthusiasts opt for rugged bikes like the Royal Enfield for their reliability in these demanding conditions.
Things to do
Explore City Palace by taking a sunset boat cruise at Lake Pichola. Enjoy the speed boat ride in Fatehsagar Lake.
Visit City Palace, Monsoon Palace, Jagdish Temple, Saheliyon ki Bari, and Gulab Bagh.
Enjoy the cable ride at the ropeway, visit the Haldighati, and vintage Car Museum.
Conclusion
While we’ve discussed the top 12 best places for a winter vacation in India, in our upcoming content, we’ll delve into the best places to visit in august in india. If you’re planning a trip, incorporating tips on how to plan your dubai trip from india to travel like a pro can further enhance your travel experience. For enjoying your holidays and vacations, and we’re eager to guide you for the monsoon season next! For more information, visit Journey Index the best website for travelers.
