The winter season is the perfect time to travel in India. The weather is pleasantly chilly, and everything feels calm and cozy. With festivals and vacations lined up, many tourists are ready to explore some of the best destinations across the country. From snow-covered mountain peaks to the best hill stations in India, there are countless places to visit in winter in India.
Being a land of diverse attractions, India offers both tropical beaches and stunning peaks like Nanda Devi. The choice is yours, decide which one you want to visit first! So, let’s take you through 17 must-visit places in India during winter.
Top 17 Winter Tourist Places in India
India looks even more stunning during the winter season. Be it birdwatching or just shopping, there’s a lot for tourists to explore. Find below the 17 places to visit in winter in India:
1. Kerala
Oh, the warm one! This is the first assumption that came into your mind, right? Yes, Kerala must be on your bucket list if you’re interested in visiting warm places. As the monsoon says goodbye, Kerala’s natural magnificence reaches its peak. The places to visit in Kerala include Silent Valley National Park, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Alleppey Beach, etc. You can try a houseboat cruise, beach hopping, and wildlife encounters here. Other attractions in Kerala include the Western Ghats, spice gardens, topographies, and countryside.
2. Ahmedabad
Located in Gujarat, Ahmedabad is home to many muslim tombs and other historical monuments. There are around 50 mosques and mausoleums here. Additionally, many Hindu and Jain temples attest to the beauty. The other places to visit here include Sabarmati Ashram, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Akshardham Temple, Kankaria Lake, etc. You can engage in wildlife witnessing, exploring Old Ahmedabad, watching the infrastructure, etc.
3. Majuli
Majuli is one of the best places to travel in winter. In these times, this location turns into a beautiful heaven. You can engage in cycling and thrilling boat rides here. Many historic places are here, such as the Kamalabari monasteries. Nature and bird watchers can also indulge in many interesting activities here. Overall, Majuli is one of the most underrated places to travel in winter in India. The best places to visit here include Auniati Satra, Samaguri Satra, Tengapania, Brahmaputra River, etc. Things to do are exploring the Mishing villages, enjoying sunset views, visiting Satras, etc.
4. Varanasi
It is the oldest city in the world and one of the best places to visit in India during winter. Its historic touch was integrated with modernism in the 21st century. The ambience is mystical, and this city is one of the most sacred places for Hindus. There are several places to visit in Varanasi from ghats to ashrams, one can also hear ear-pleasing chantings in shrines. The best places to stay here include The Gateway Hotel Ganges, Radisson Hotel, Nadesar Palace, etc.
5. Pelling
Pelling offers a scenic escape from mundane city life. It has beautiful mountains, and you can witness snowfalls in winter here. Overall, it is one of the best places to visit in winter in India. Travellers can explore several monasteries and engage in adventurous activities like trekking, zip-lining, and witnessing iconic waterfalls. The best places to visit include Pemayangtse Monastery, Sangachoeling Monastery, Rabdenste Ruins, Khecheopalri Lake, etc.
6. Darjeeling
We all think about toy trains when we hear ‘Darjeeling’. It also lures tourists with the best tea estates in the world. This haven also experiences snowfall in winter, which makes it one of the ideal places to visit in winter in India. There are many festivals organised during winter, such as the Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival and the Darjeeling Orange Festival. These give you an insight into the tradition and local culture.
The best places to visit in Darjeeling include Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Peace Pagoda, Tiger Hill, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Ghum Monastery, and Batasia Loop. Some of the good inns to stay at are Hotel Sonar Bangla, Central Heritage Resort & Spa, and Hotel Seven Seventeen.
7. Chennai
Again, one of the most preferred places to visit in winter in India. Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu, and some of the must-visit places here include Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Guindy National Park, and St. Thomas Mount. The best places to stay here are Ambassador Pallava, Quality Inn Sabari, and Raintree Hotel.
There is a perfect fusion of Victorian and Dravidian architectures, which means a balanced combination of eastern and western cultures.
8. Rajasthan
When we talk about Rajasthan, the very first thing that comes to our mind is Jaipur, the Pink City. But wait, there are various other places to visit in rajasthan such as Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, etc. Both Indians and foreigners visit this state to witness beautiful fortresses, peaks, folk art and dance, and try the Rajasthani cuisine. The awe-inspiring Thar Desert can take anyone’s breath away. The couples visit this state the most in the winter.
9. Manali
When we’re talking about the best places to visit in winter in India, do not let Manali slip away from your hands. This iconic retreat is a hub for trying out adventurous sports like skiing and snowboarding. It is one of the cheapest destinations to visit in winter in India. The places to visit in Manali here include Rohtang Pass, Bhrigu Lake, Hidimba Devi Temple, and Solang Valley.
The best inns to stay at are Hotel Vintage Manali, The Orchard Greens, and The Manali Inn.
10. Uttarakhand
Due to its closeness to the great Himalayas, Uttarakhand has many great tourist destinations for all, such as ancient shrines, sanctuaries, national parks, hill stations, and mountain cliffs. The places to visit in Uttarakhand here include Nainital, Haridwar, Jim Corbett National Park, Auli, Chopta, etc. You can find iconic wild beasts, like tigers, in the Jim Corbett National Park.
Seeking adventure sports? Try out rafting and bungee jumping in Rishikesh. The other sports to try out include skiing, snowboarding, winter camping, and trekking to Kedarnatha.
11. Goa
Goa is one of the best places to see in winter in India. It’s not only a beach but a party town for all extroverts. The loud music, delectable seafood, beach parties, and whatnot. There are many festivals celebrated during Christmas and New Year, such as Sunburn and the Goa Film Festival.
The best places to visit in Goa are Aguada Fort, Butterfly Beach, Baga Beach, Tito’s Lane, etc. You can do many things as a tourist, such as beach-hopping, visiting churches, exploring cafes and clubs, and engaging in adventurous water sports.
12. Delhi
Ah, the coolest metro city! Probably the best winter tourist places in India. The capital city is super hot during the summer and very cool during the winter. Still, it is considered best to tour during the winter only. The best places to visit in Delhi include the India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, Chandani Chowk, Connaught Place, etc. You can also indulge in local food delicacies, shop at the Sarojini Market, and cafe-hop.
13. Bodh Gaya
Bodh Gaya is not only one of the best winter places to visit, but also considered the Mecca of Buddhists. The site has a highly respected temple that visitors from all across the nation gather to visit. The months of November to March are considered the most important. Many Tibetan devotees visit during this time, and the honourable Dalai Lama is also said to come between December and January.
14. Hampi
Hampi has been ranked as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is also one of the best places to visit in winter in India. It stays hot throughout the year, but a bit chilly during the cool months. In January, it conducts a festival known as Hampi Mahotsav. In this, the tradition of Karnataka is celebrated via puppet shows, folk dance, art, sports, temple parades, songs, etc.
Let’s talk about the places to visit in Hampi here, which include Virupaksha Temple, Matanga Hill, Vitthala Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, etc. The best places to stay include Vicky’s Guest House, Thilak Home Stay, and Archana Guest House.
15. Agra
Agra is also known as Akbar’s city. It is one of the most renowned winter vacation places in India. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, there are various places to visit in Agra like the Taj Mahal, which is one of the seven wonders of the world.
You can also shop from the vibrant markets here, and stay at luxurious inns, such as Oberoi Amarvilas, Courtyard Marriott, Radisson Blu, ITC Mughal, Clarks Shiraz, etc.
16. Himachal Pradesh
Are you a newlywed couple? Then, Himachal Pradesh is the best honeymoon destination for you. Winter in these areas- Kullu, Manali, Shimla, Dharamshala, and McLeodganj- is perfect for honeymoons and adventure sports. There things to do in Himachal Pradesh include snowboarding, snow trekking, ice skating, etc.
You can also try rafting in the Beas River at Kullu, paragliding, tobogganing, skiing in Solang Valley near Manali, etc. Also, don’t forget to try the night camping at McLeodganj! The best places to visit here include the Mall Road of Shimla, Old Manali, Kullu, Chamba, Spiti Valley, etc.
17. Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is an iconic hill station destination with mesmerising snowfalls and breathtaking waterfalls located near Mumbai. There are many places to visit here, such as the Prataparh Fort, Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar Temple, and so on. The best time to visit this getaway is from November to February. During these times, you can expect pleasant weather with cool temperatures. You can also enjoy sightseeing, trekking.
Conclusion
Winter is a great time to get out and see India. You can enjoy snowy mountains, sunny beaches, or colorful festivals; there is really something for everyone. This list of 17 places to visit in winter in India will perfectly mix adventure, culture, and nature, so your winter holiday can be fun and memorable.
Take a break from your usual routine, hang out with family or friends, and make some memories you’ll remember for a long time. Pack your bags, plan your trip, and let this winter be all about exploring, having fun, and trying a little adventure along the way!
