India, a tactile country known for its vibrant culture and diverse geography, is home to numerous enchanting destinations that bloom beautifully during winter. These locations offer a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural vibrancy that makes them irresistible to travellers.
Here are 12 must-visit destinations in India for the winter of 2023:
- MANALI, HIMACHAL PRADESH:
Experiencing snowfall is perhaps the foremost reason to visit Manali in winters. Encased in a thick blanket of frost, the town resembles a picturesque wonderland right out of a postcard. From snowball fights to building snowmen and indulging in winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, the fun activities are endless. The cold winter months also mark the onset of the spellbinding winter carnival in Manali. This festival presents a unique opportunity to witness vibrant cultural performances and to engage with the local community, thereby enriching your holiday experience. It’s a celebration that brings together tourists and locals alike, showcasing the rich culture and traditions of the region. Visiting the famous hot water springs such as Vashisht and Manikaran during winter months is another unique experience. When surrounding temperatures drop significantly, the natural hot springs serve as an oasis of warmth, rejuvenating body and soul. To top it off, the winter season is relatively less crowded, offering a peaceful and serene ambience, perfect for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature.
- SHIMLA, HIMACHAL PRADESH:
One of the most fascinating sights is witnessing the fluffy snowfall that turns Shimla into a winter wonderland. The temperature drops to below zero, making it an ideal place for snow lovers. The Mall Road, with its snow- kissed paths and Victorian-style architecture, is a treat to explore during this season. Unleash your adventure spirit by partaking in various winter sports like ice-skating and skiing. Shimla is home to Asia’s oldest natural ice-skating rink, where you can glide elegantly on the icy surface under the bare winter sky. Visit the Kufri slopes for skiing, another popular winter sport.
Immerse in the local cheer as the town celebrates festivals like Christmas and New Year in grandeur. A walk through Ridge Road adorned with twinkling lights, decorative items, and melodious carol-singing will make your vacation unforgettable.The Winter Carnival, a spectacle of local culture, talent displays, and gastronomy, is a seasonal highlight. Exciting performances by folk artists and children’s festivals add festive zest to the chilling winter. Shimla in winters is a serene and picturesque getaway that promises the ultimate bliss to travellers. Embrace the winter chill and indulge in this spellbinding White Paradise.
3. GULMARG, JAMMU AND KASHMIR:
Gulmarg, or “Meadow of Flowers,” is a winter wonderland that offers a multitude of reasons to mark it on your travel calendar. With the world’s highest gondola- the Gulmarg Gondola, skiing and snowboarding experience new dimensions of thrill. Its steep slopes pose an invigorating challenge for professionals while first-timers are guaranteed a memorable experience.
But Gulmarg isn’t restricted to winter sports alone. Come winters, and the valley dresses up in thick blankets of snow. Its snow-dusted landscapes and silent mountains are picture-perfect elements for photography, making it a haven for shutterbugs. For those in search of serenity, the St. Mary’s Church and the Baba Reshi shrine bring tranquillity amidst snow. Also, for the nature lover within you, the frozen Alpather Lake and the awe-inspiring views from Apharwat peak assure a mesmerising encounter with nature.
4. AULI, UTTARAKHAND:
Auli transforms into a winter wonderland from late November to February. The town is wrapped in a thick blanket of snow, turning the landscape into an incredible sight. Skiers from across the globe flock to Auli’s steep slopes to carve their paths through the snow. Winter months present the opportunity to partake in the National Annual Skiing Championship. Even amateur skiers can get training at the Auli Skiing Institute.
Surrounding peaks like Nanda Devi, Kamat Kamet, and Man Parvat add to the mesmerising backdrop against which you can perfect your skiing skills. The cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains, is a must-experience. During winters, this ropeway journey is distinctly magical. Lastly, Auli also offers surprisingly serene moments. One can enjoy breathtaking sunrise and sunset vistas from the viewpoint in Gorson Bugyal. Besides, there are winter treks to popular sites like Kwani Bugyal and Chenab Lake.
5. DARJEELING, WEST BENGAL:
Darjeeling, a quaint hill-station nestled in the folds of the Eastern Himalayas, morphs into a winter wonderland every year and extends an alluring invitation to tourists. One of the many attractions of Darjeeling in winter is the panoramic vistas of the third highest mountain in the world, Kanchenjunga. The mighty peak, glistening in its shroud of snow under the winter sun, leaves you mesmerised.
Winter is the perfect season to savour the world-renowned delicacy Darjeeling is famous for – its tea. The timely winter nip accentuates the refreshing taste of this aromatic and full-bodied brew. For those craving a bit of adventure, Darjeeling provides ample opportunities. The relatively clear skies can be perfect for trekking. Winter sports such as ice-skating and snow-boarding are also offered in season.
A cosy stroll down the Mall Road, lined with shops offering a variety of curios and artefacts, offers a charming shopping experience. Countless treasures await to be discovered in this winter wonderland, promising an experience like no other.
6. SHILLONG, MEGHALAYA:
As winter curtains unfurl, Shillong, the “abode of clouds,”
turns into an ethereal paradise that beguiles travellers with its iconic appeal. Shillong during winters offers unalloyed serenity with a landscape transformed into a crystalline snow paradise. It’s a perfect winter escapade that promises panoramic views of snow-clad hills, frozen waterfalls, and the serenity of Umiam Lake. The Annual Autumn Festival, a must-attend event for all visitors.
This three-day festival brims with delightful events such as fashion shows, rock concerts, traditional dance performances, and food festivals showcasing the rich traditions and cultural heritage of Meghalaya.
Shillong offers you the chance to explore exotic local markets like Bara Bazaar and Police Bazaar. Shop for unique tribal handicrafts and relish flavoursome northeastern cuisine, making it a shopper’s and foodie’s paradise. The temperatures are manageable (4-16°C), making it convenient for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
turns into an ethereal paradise that beguiles travellers with its iconic appeal. Shillong during winters offers unalloyed serenity with a landscape transformed into a crystalline snow paradise. It’s a perfect winter escapade that promises panoramic views of snow-clad hills, frozen waterfalls, and the serenity of Umiam Lake. The Annual Autumn Festival, a must-attend event for all visitors.
This three-day festival brims with delightful events such as fashion shows, rock concerts, traditional dance performances, and food festivals showcasing the rich traditions and cultural heritage of Meghalaya. Shillong offers you the chance to explore exotic local markets like Bara Bazaar and Police Bazaar. Shop for unique tribal handicrafts and relish flavoursome northeastern cuisine, making it a shopper’s and foodie’s paradise. The temperatures are manageable (4-16°C), making it convenient for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
7. OOTY, TAMIL NADU:
The winter in Ooty offers a refreshing break from the scorching heat. The temperature ranges between 5°C and 23°C, providing the perfect weather to explore the panoramic vistas comfortably. The vistas are simply
stunning, with the misty mountains, verdant valleys, and shimmering tea gardens blanketed under frost. There are breathtaking viewpoints such as Doddabetta Peak and Dolphin’s Nose from where you can get a bird’s-eye view of the magnificent landscape.
Winter also witnesses the Ooty Winter Festival, a major crowd puller. You can enjoy cultural performances, flower shows, boat races, and food festivals, making it an enjoyable time for families and solo travellers. Ooty in winter is less crowded. You can enjoy the tranquillity, slow pace of life, and take leisurely strolls in the Botanical Gardens. A visit during winters will unquestionably leave a lasting impression and give you unforgettable memories.
8. GANGTOK, SIKKIM:
Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, India, turns even more enchanting during the winter months.
During winters, Gangtok has a pleasant climate with temperatures averaging between 4 and 7 degrees Celsius. You can stroll along the picturesque MG Marg or visit the iconic Rumtek Monastery without breaking a sweat.
Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in an array of activities. From thrilling river rafting on the Teesta River to embarking on the exciting Yumthang Valley winter trek, the options for exhilarating outdoor adventures make Gangtok a must-visit winter destination for adrenaline junkies. Lastly, if you’re lucky, you might witness the splendid sight of snowfall in Gangtok in December and January. The city under a white, snowy blanket is a spectacle to behold, its serenity amplified.
9. MUKTESHWAR, UTTARAKHAND:
Mukteshwar with its stunning blanket of snow turns the town into a picturesque retreat during winters. The tranquil and panoramic view of snow-clad Himalayan peaks is awe-inspiring, while the chill in the air adds to the allure.If you’re an adventure enthusiast, you’ll be thrilled to partake in winter sports like snow trekking or simply engage in playful snow fights. Prefer relaxation? Lose yourself amid the serenity of historic temples or taste local cuisine around a bonfire.
Numerous migratory birds descend on this town, making bird watching a delightful experience for ornithologists and nature lovers. The winter twilight sky in Mukteshwar adds a mystical touch, making it a photographers’ paradise, and the crystal clear night sky, glittering with stars, is an unforgettable sight. Needless to say, if you plan to escape city life and refresh your senses, Mukteshwar can be your perfect winter retreat.
10. PURI, ODISHA:
Puri, a coastal city in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, is an all-time favourite destination among travellers, and for good reason. The climate in the winter is pleasantly cool, as temperatures dip to about 10-15 °C, making it perfect for sightseeing and leisurely beach strolls without breaking a sweat. Puri’s renowned Jagannath temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage site, sees fewer crowds during the winter months, allowing visitors a more peaceful, reflective experience. The most famous among them is the Puri Beach Festival, held every November. This extravaganza showcases a blend of art, culture, music, and cuisine that is unique to Odisha, allowing tourists to experience the local flavour in full swing. Lastly, Puri offers unique winter wildlife experiences. The nearby Chilika Lake becomes a paradise for bird watchers in winter as it hosts thousands of migratory birds, visiting from as far as Siberia.
11 . VARKALA, KERALA:
Varkala during winters provides a comfortable environment to explore its picturesque landscapes, majestic cliff views or the historic monuments without getting overly exhausted. Winter is also the best time for Ayurveda treatments, arguably Varkala’s most popular tourist attraction.
For food lovers, you can savour a delicious spread of
appam (rice pancake), Malabar parotta (layered bread), sambar, and a variety of seafood dishes. Finally, the winter months provide an opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Theyyam festival, a unique form of worship native to Northern Kerala. The festival, vibrant with traditional dance and music, is a visual treat for culture enthusiasts.
12. MUNNAR, KERALA:
Munnar turns into a verdant paradise during the winter season. With temperatures rarely dropping below 10 degrees C you can enjoy gentle winter sunshine while exploring the town. The tea plantations look their picturesque best during winters. Many tea estates also allow visitors to participate in tea plucking activities.
The winter season is particularly favourable for venturing into the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Other rare species, like the Nilgiri wood pigeon and elephant, can also be spotted in the park during this time. Munnar’s waterfalls, including Attukad, Nyayamakad, and Thommankuthu, are another spectacle to view in winter. The crystal-clear waters against the backdrop of a cloudless winter sky create a picture-perfect sight. For adrenaline junkies, winter is the perfect time to participate in adventure sports, like trekking, parcel gliding, and cycling, organised around these waterfalls.
In conclusion, India’s diverse landscapes offer numerous opportunities for travelers to embrace winter in style. Whether you prefer snow-covered hill stations, serene beaches, or vibrant festivals, India has something for everyone.
