India is undoubtedly the most loved country worldwide because of its religions, ethnicity, societies, culture, and distinct weathers. Let’s talk about 16 places to visit in winters in India-
Winters in India, unlike other countries in the world, are quite pleasant and fun, to begin with. Given how the climate of India is, winters become the best time to explore this otherwise hot and humid country. While a lot of us choose to spend our winters outside India, let me tell you there is no shortage of good places to explore in India during winters.
With a string of holidays and a list of festivals and fairs, winters in India are marked by vacations. This is a good time to head out for a vacation with family.
From the magical Kashmir to relaxing Kerala, there are many places to visit in winters in India that will make you want to get out of your cosy beds and experience the season at its best.
1.Gulmarg
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 adrenaline rush by trekking on one of the many trails that become even more challenging during the season.
–Cable car ride
2.Shimla-Kufri
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.
–Ice skating at the open-air skating rink
3.Manali
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.
–Food walk in Old Manali
4.Auli
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.
–National Championship of Skiing
5.Binsar
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.
–A trip to Zero Point
6.Dalhousie
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.
–A hike through the Deodar forest
7.Rann of Kutch
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 stargazing, 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.
–Camping in Dhordo Village
8.Wayanad
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.
–A visit to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Edakkal Caves
9.Tawang
Tawang is an offbeat hill station situated in the North-eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is undoubtedly the most difficult place 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 the Torgya Festival, or in February for Losar.
-A visit to Urgelling Monastery – the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama
10.Gangtok
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.
–A trip to Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake
11.Shillong
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, dawki, Laitlum.
–Take a trip to the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong
12.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.
–Sight native and migratory birds at the Ousteri Lake
13.Ooty
Ooty is a popular hill station in TamilNadu, 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.
–A ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Toy Train
14.Coorg
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.
–Spot wildlife at Nagarhole National Park
15.Munnar
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.
– Taste and shop for homemade chocolates
16.Manali
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.
We hope you enjoyed reading this answer and was of some help to you. Tell us about your favorite destination in India in the comment section. We would also love to hear how you like to spend your time there.
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