The onset of winter has more snow than in the prior years. Some people, like me, enjoy exploring new locations in the chilly weather while others prefer to spend their luxury India vacations and free time snuggled up in blankets drinking hot chocolate (while sipping hot chocolate, of course). There are numerous locations to travel to in India during the winter that will entice you out of your warm beds and encourage you to take advantage of the season to the fullest, from the calm Kerala to the magical Himachal Pradesh.
1. Gulmarg, Kashmir
- Our first choice is Gulmarg. This hill town, which is located in the northernmost state of India, is lovely all year round, but the onset of winter only serves to accentuate its allure. This location is ideal for enjoying winter sports like skiing and snowboarding because of the snow-covered scenery and frozen lakes. Trekking on one of the many paths, which get even more difficult as the season changes, can satisfy the need for an adrenaline rush for adventurers.
- Take the cable car for a trip.
2. Shimla-Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
- Shimla-Kufri is probably one of the most well-liked places in North India for people who wish to see snowfall. Rolling hills and snow-covered forests surround Himachal's capital city, creating a path for a variety of adventurous pursuits. A cup of hot tea and spectacular views of the Himalayas can be enjoyed in any of the many restaurants along the Mall road.
- Ice skating at the outdoor rink is a must-do.
3. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
- We're talking about Manali, luxury India tours favourite winter destination, with its towering mountains, deodar trees, meandering roads, and copious amounts of snow! An adventurer's, honeymooner's, and snow lover's paradise, this Himachal Pradesh hill station is all three. Whether you want to trek up to Jogini Waterfalls, go biking to Rohtang Pass, or go paragliding in Solang Valley, Manali will provide you a beautiful experience and make you want to come back repeatedly.
- Not to Miss: Old Manali food stroll
4. Auli, Uttarakhand
- Want to learn to ski while the majestic Nanda Devi, Neelkanth, and Mana Parbat mountains tower over you? Then, you must travel to Auli, which is the best skiing destination in India. The area is blanketed in a thick coating of snow, ski resorts are crowded with vacationers, and thrill-seekers are making their way to conquer the snow-covered slopes.
- National Skiing Championships are Not to Be Missed
5. Binsar, Uttarakhand
- When it comes to hill towns in India for luxury escorted tours to visit in the winter, Binsar is a less well-known name. But trust us when we say that it is among the most breathtaking locations you will ever visit. It is a charming tiny hill station in Uttarakhand that is a photographer's dream since it provides beautiful views of the peaks of Kedarnath, Trishul, and Nanda Devi, all of which are touched by clouds. The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary in India, where you may find a wide range of flora and animal species, adds to the excitement of this highland resort.
- Unmissable: A visit to Zero Point
6. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
- Anyone who likes colonial enchantment will love Dalhousie, a hill resort in Himachal Pradesh that is comparable to all the others but different. As the temperature drops below freezing and the brisk breeze beckons you outside to have the time of your life, the winters bring out the finest in this location. Thousands of trekkers descend on Dalhousie in December for the National Himalayan Winter Trekking Expedition.
- A trek through the Deodar forest is recommended.
7. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
- Want to camp outside beneath the stars in the coldest salt sand desert? Then, visit Rann of Kutch in the winter. This location is known for the Rann Utsav, a two-month long cultural event, and it has a dreamlike appearance. Oh, what a show it is: a large expanse of white land, authentic handicrafts, desert safaris, astronomy, and traditional cuisine all in one place! Since thousands of travellers from over the world are invited to the Kutch Festival, we advise you to make your reservations well in advance.
- Camping in Dhordo Village is a must-do.
8. Wayanad, Kerala
- Want to appreciate a hill station's winters but find the cold intolerable? For a wonderful luxury tour amidst the Western Ghats, travel to Wayanad. This charming town in Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," has all the amenities for a vacation, including delicious food, a rich culture, interesting history, and friendly locals. There are numerous bird watching locations and hiking paths in Wayanad that draw visitors from throughout the nation, adding to the excitement.
- Not to Miss: A trip to the Edakkal Caves and Wayanad Wildlife in India.
9. Gangtok, Sikkim
- Gangtok is a distinctive hill town with much to offer everyone. Every type of traveller, from Buddhist pilgrims to hikers, tourists to honeymooners, can find an activity that interests them. Like nowhere else, the rich flora and fauna, serene high-altitude lakes, vibrant monasteries, and views of the spectacular Himalayas beckon you. Although Gangtok does not see snowfall, the temperature can reach to approximately 4 degrees, so take this into consideration when packing for your vacation.
- Not to Miss: A visit to Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass
10. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
- Dharamshala, sometimes known as "Little Lhasa," is a small town in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district. This tranquil hamlet embodies what it means to be a hill station in India because it is surrounded by the Dhauladhar Range, lush alpine vegetation, small lanes, and Colonial architecture. Their presence has had a big impact on Dharamshala's cuisine, music, and atmosphere. Due to its favourable climate, you can visit this well-known tourist destination all year long, but a visit in the winter is essential.
- Visit the Norbulingka Institute; do not miss it.
11. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
- Mussoorie, aptly known as "The Queen of the Hills," changes into a snowy paradise in the winter because of the significant amount of snowfall it receives. The buildings, roads, mountains, and snow-covered pine, oak, and cedar trees enhance this hill station's lovely atmosphere. Enjoy the wintertime view from the Lal Tibba Scenic View Point, stroll along the Mall Road's snow-covered sidewalk, or sit and sip a cup of hazelnut coffee at the Le Llama Café.
- Not to Miss: Holiday festivities