Winters are here and this time they are making up for the last few years. While most people plan to spend their holidays and week offs curled up in a blanket and sipping hot chocolate; there are some like me, who love to explore new places and enjoy the chilly weather (while sipping hot chocolate, of course). From the magical Himachal Pradesh to relaxing Kerala, there are many places to visit in winter in India that will make you want to get out of your cosy beds and experience the season at its best. In this article we will share a list of Best Places to Visit in Winters in India with their location, weather, and fun activities and how to reach in
Top Places to Visit in Winters in India
- Gulmarg
- Shimla
- Manali
- Auli
- Binsar
- Dalhousie
- Rann of Kutch
- Goa
- Wayanad
- Udaipur
- Jaisalmer
- Tawang
- Gangtok
- Munnar
- Ooty
1. Gulmarg, Kashmir
First up on our list is Gulmarg. This hill town nestled in the northern-most state of India is magical all-year-round, but its charm is enhanced upon the arrival of winters. The snow-laden landscape and frozen lakes make this place a perfect destination to indulge in snow activities like skiing and snowboarding. Adventure seekers can satiate their hunger for an adrenaline rush by trekking on one of the many trails that become even more challenging during the season.
2. Shimla-Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla-Kufri is definitely among the most popular destinations in North India for people who like to experience snowfall. The capital city of Himachal is surrounded by rolling hills and snow-covered forests, which open the path for many adventure activities. Numerous restaurants lining the Mall road make for the perfect setting to enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas while sipping a cup of hot tea.
3. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Towering mountains, deodar trees, winding roads and heavy snowfall; we are talking of India’s loved winter destination, Manali! Situated in Himachal Pradesh, this hill station is a paradise for snow lovers, honeymooners and adventure lovers. Whether it is a biking trip to Rohtang Pass, paragliding in Solang Valley or hiking up to Jogini Waterfalls, Manali will leave you with a memorable experience and urge you to come back more than once.
4. Auli, Uttarakhand
Want to learn skiing while magnificent peaks of Nanda Devi, Neelkanth and Mana Parbat are looking over you? Then, you must head to the best skiing destination of India – Auli! While it boasts of lush green valleys almost throughout the year, visiting this place in peak winters lets you see it in a completely different light. The landscape is covered with a thick layer of snow, numerous ski resorts dotting the region are bustling with holidaymakers, and adventure junkies are on their way to tame the snow-laden slopes.
5. Binsar, Uttarakhand
Binsar is a lesser-known name when it comes to hill stations to visit in winters in India. But believe us when we say, it is one of the most spectacular places you will ever visit. It is a quaint little hill station in Uttarakhand that offers breathtaking views of cloud-touching Kedarnath, Trishul and Nanda Devi peaks, making it a photographer’s paradise. What makes this hill resort even more exciting is the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary where you can find an extensive variety of flora and fauna species.
6. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
Another hill station in Himachal Pradesh, but different from any other, Dalhousie is ideal for anyone who enjoys colonial charm. Winters bring out the best of this place as the mercury falls below freezing point and the chilly breeze invites you to come out and have the time of your life. December sees a horde of trekking enthusiasts as Dalhousie hosts the National Himalayan Winter Trekking Expedition.
7. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
Want to camp under the stars on the largest salt sand desert in sub-zero temperatures? Then, head to Rann of Kutch during the winter months. Famous for the Rann Utsav – a two-month long cultural festival – this place looks something straight out of dreams. Traditional food, authentic handicrafts, desert safari and star gazing, complemented by a wide expanse of white land, oh what a sight it is! The Kutch Festival invites lakhs of tourists from all around the world, so we recommend you make your bookings way in advance.
8. Goa
The onset of winters marks the beginning of party season throughout the world. And what better place to kick-start your New Year celebrations than the party capital of India – Goa! Pleasant climate, serene beaches, a variety of water sports, throbbing nightclubs and parties that continue till the dawn make this destination a perfect getaway during the winters. Apart from this, travellers love the place for the Goa Carnival, Goa Film Festival, and Christmas parties.
9. Wayanad, Kerala
Want to enjoy winters at a hill station but can’t bear the cold? Head to Wayanad for a dream vacation amidst the Western Ghats. Situated in the ‘God’s Own Country’ – Kerala, this picturesque town has everything one looks for on a holiday – food, culture, history and warm people. To make things more exciting, there are several bird watching spots and trekking trails in Wayanad that attract tourists from all over the country.
10. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Rightfully called the ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur has the kind of charm that lures hundreds of thousands of tourists from around the world, throughout the year. The magnificent Lake Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, Jag Mandir, Lake Pichola and many such medieval-era marvels are the reason behind it. The number of visitors particularly increases in the winters as the lakes and surrounding Aravali hills work in tandem to keep the temperature just perfect for sightseeing. And if you are an art connoisseur, plan your trip during the Shilpgram Arts and Crafts Festival to witness traditional performances.
11. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Although Jaisalmer is quite hot and humid for the better part of the year, the winter months of December and January make for ideal weather to visit this desert city. Activities like desert camping, camel rides, quad biking, dune bashing, parasailing and more, keep the adventure junkies occupied, while the Desert Festival, Nerasi Music School, Kuldhara Village and Sonar Quila take you on a cultural ride.
12. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is an offbeat hill station situated in the North-eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is undoubtedly the most difficult places to reach in winters, from this list, but once you capture the glorious views of the snow-covered Himalayas, valleys wrapped by colourful prayer flags and ancient monasteries, the efforts put in would seem worthwhile. If you are interested in attending cultural events, visit Tawang in January for Torgya Festival, or in February for Losar.
13. Gangtok, Sikkim
Home to old Indo-China Silk Route, Gangtok is a unique hill station that offers something for everyone. From Buddhist pilgrims to trekkers, tourists to honeymooners, every kind of traveller can find an activity of their interest. Rich flora and fauna, tranquil high-altitude lakes, colourful monasteries and views of the surreal Himalayas entice you like no other place. While Gangtok doesn’t receive any snowfall, the temperature soars around 4 degrees, so be mindful while packing for the trip.
14. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Dharamshala often referred to as ‘Little Lhasa’ is a small town situated in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by the Dhauladhar Range, thick alpine vegetation, narrow streets, and Colonial buildings, make this peaceful town a quintessential hill station in India. There is another reason for its popularity – the presence of a large community of Tibetans who followed His Holiness The Dalai Lama and made this their abode. Their presence has greatly influenced the food, music, and ambience of Dharamshala. Although, you can visit this popular tourist attraction all-year-round due to its pleasant climate, however, a visit in winters is a must.
15. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Aptly named ‘The Queen of the Hills’, Mussoorie in winters transforms into a white paradise thanks to the heavy snowfall it receives. The snow-covered pine, oak, and cedar trees, buildings, roads, and mountains elevate the romantic vibe of this hill station. Soak in the winter panorama from the Lal Tibba Scenic View Point, walk on the snowy street of the Mall Road, or sit and enjoy the hazelnut coffee at the Le Llama Café.
16. Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Winter is the best time to explore the ‘Blue City’ of Rajasthan – Jodhpur. With the temperature ranging between 7 – 27-degree Celsius, you can explore the famous landmarks of Jodhpur freely and comfortably. These include the grand Mehrangarh Fort, stunning Umaid Bhawan Palace, and tranquil Mahamandir Temple.
17. Shillong, Meghalaya
The best time to visit and explore the capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong is in the winters. It is referred to as ‘The Scotland of the East’ because of its colonial heritage, natural beauty, and pleasant weather. Some places to visit in the city include Lady Hydari Park, Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, Ward’s Lake, and Elephant Falls.
18. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
For Hindus, Varanasi is one of the holiest places to visit. The sacred ghats, religious hymns, and ashrams fill the city with a heavenly and peaceful air. Soaking in the sunrise and sunsets, taking a boat ride in the misty Ganges, and sitting by the ghats to watch the religious ceremonies are the highlights of visiting this revered city in the winters.
19. Nashik, Maharashtra
A paradise for wine lovers, Nashik is home to the finest vineyards of India. Along with the beautiful panorama, the city has a lot in store for the tourists. This includes adventurous activities like white water rafting and trekking, wine, music, and food festivals. So, winter is the ideal time to visit the city.
20. Puducherry
Resembling a French town, Puducherry is one of the most romantic spots to visit in the winters, especially if you come from the colder north. The warm yet comfortable climate is ideal to soak in the tranquil vibe of this beach city. There is lots to do from tasting French food to trying your hand at water sports.
21. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty is a popular hill station in Tamil Nadu, which is surrounded by the evergreen Nilgiris. During summers, Ooty used to serve as a getaway for the Britishers and hence, you will find many remnants of the colonial period like St. Stephen’s Church. In winters, the town’s famous coffee plantations and dense flora are covered by mist, which gives it a dreamy and romantic ambience.
22. Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg is another destination on this list that is referred to as ‘Scotland of India’ owing to its breathtaking landscape. This town situated in the Western Ghats is a popular destination for tourists seeking peace and solitude. The coffee plantations, majestic waterfalls, and misty surroundings are highlights of a winter trip to this natural wonderland.
23. Munnar, Kerala
Situated in the Idukki District, Kerala, Munnar is referred to as the ‘Kashmir of the South’ due to its spellbinding scenery. The pleasant winters are also perfect to enjoy the adventurous activities such as trekking, hiking, rappelling, etc. in Munnar. Picnic at the Echo Point, climb the surreal Anamudi Peak, and taste different tea flavours at the TATA Tea Museum.
Places to Visit in Winter FAQs:
Q: What are the best places to visit in North India in winter?
A: Shimla, Mussoorie, Manali, Dharamshala, and Gulmarg are the best places to visit during winters in North India. Visit these hill stations to escape the heat of the plains and witness the beauty of a snowy landscape.
Q: What are the best places to visit in South India in winter?
A: Coorg, Munnar, Ooty, Puducherry, and Mysore are some of the best places to visit in South India during winters. The pleasant climate is perfect for exploring these tropical paradises.
Q: What are the best places to visit in February in India with my partner?
A: Take your partner to Goa, Udaipur, Coorg, Jaisalmer, and Sikkim as these are the best locations to visit in February. Here you will get ample opportunities to spend quality time together.
Q: What are the best destinations to explore with my friends in the winter?
A: Some places in India during winters are ideal to be visited with friends because of festivals, cafes, adventurous activities, and more. These places include Nashik, Mussoorie, Kufri, and Puducherry.
Q: 5. Where can I get some sun during December?
A: Visit Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Mount Abu in Rajasthan for some warm feels during the cold December.
