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Winter Wonderland: The 8 Best Indian Destinations to Visit in Winter

Winter in India brings cooler temperatures, a gentler sun, and a wide range of celebrations and activities for tourists to participate in. Parts of the country are blanketed in snow and become hubs for skiing and other winter activities. In contrast, other parts maintain warm and paradise-like atmospheres, making them a wonderful escape from white snow and cold chills.

Whether your sights are set on a winter wonderland or a sunny escape, these eight places in India are must-visit destinations during winter.

1. Auli, Uttarakhand

Auli is often considered the best winter destination in India for those seeking a snow-filled winter experience. It transitions into a cold habitat blanketed in snow, and the mountainous landscape offers prime skiing during the winter. Auli becomes a hub of outdoor winter activities, typically between November and February, and the quaint, charming villages become even more inviting under a layer of bright white snow. 

The area is also a huge draw for mountain trekking and boasts the Ropeway Cable Car Ride, a scenic ride with views of the Himalayas. The best part of Auli is that once you’ve had your fill of gliding down mountains or drinking in stunning mountain vistas, you can cosy up at your hotel with a drink, a good book, a movie, or even a game of chance found at casinos.com.

2. Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, transforms into an enchanting destination during winter. From November to February, the weather is cool and pleasant, providing the perfect respite from the scorching summer heat. The Ganges River, shrouded in morning mist, adds a mystical charm to the city, making the famous Ganga Aarti even more mesmerizing. Winter is also a great time to explore Varanasi’s ancient temples, vibrant ghats, and narrow streets filled with culture and history. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for a boat ride at sunrise or wandering through Sarnath, the site where Buddha gave his first sermon. With its spiritual aura, rich history, and festive atmosphere, Varanasi in winter offers a magical travel experience.

3. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

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Jaisalmer, the “Golden City” of Rajasthan, is an ideal winter destination where the cool desert air provides a refreshing break from the usual heat of the region. Located in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and desert adventures during the winter months. The stunning Jaisalmer Fort, made of golden sandstone, glows under the winter sun, while the city’s ornate havelis and temples showcase its rich architectural heritage. Winter is also the perfect time to explore the Sam Sand Dunes, where visitors can enjoy camel safaris, desert camping under starlit skies, and traditional Rajasthani performances. With its pleasant weather, vibrant festivals, and unique desert landscapes, Jaisalmer offers an unforgettable winter getaway.

4. Konark, Odisha

The chill of winter comes with a deep appreciation for the warmth and strength of the sun, making Konark an ideal place to visit in the colder months. The city is known primarily for the Konark Sun Temple, an architectural marvel celebrating Surya, the sun god. A stunning piece of art and architecture, the temple was built to depict Surya’s chariot pulled by six horses and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

Konark comes to life in the winter with a five-day-long dance festival taking the stage at the Sun Temple every February. The festival brings dancers from around the country to perform and is a celebration of different styles and music found around India.

5. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

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Manali in winter

Another winter wonderland destination in India is Manali, where winter usually settles in from October to February; during this time, temperatures drop, and the region gets covered in snow. Like Auli, it boasts a mountainous landscape that welcomes skiing, but Manali also holds the allure of a few other unexpected winter activities. These activities include the opportunity to stay in an igloo and winter paragliding. For the adventurous or those seeking a novel experience, Manali is a can’t-miss destination.

6. Northern Goa

For those looking to break away from winter to enjoy the sun and a party-filled getaway, Goa is the place to go. The state enjoys warm and sunny temperatures of 20 to 30 degrees Celsius during the winter. It is home to many beaches, resorts, and a thriving nightlife scene, particularly on the northern side. The area holds an intriguing appeal by blending Indian and Portuguese cultures, creating a unique experience for those who visit.

7. Alappuzha (also known as Alleppey), Kerala

This stunning city is known for its warm weather, emerald backwaters, houseboats, and palm trees. For an enjoyable holiday in Alappuzha, it’s recommended that you take a cruise through the backwaters to truly appreciate the beauty and natural splendour of the region. Beyond the water, this destination also invites you to explore its temples, palaces, and, as with any good warm winter getaway, beaches.

8. Tawang, Arunachal

Tawang, the Buddhist frontier of Arunachal Pradesh, transforms into a mesmerizing winter destination with its snow-clad landscapes and serene monasteries. Located at an elevation of around 10,000 feet, Tawang offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility during the winter months. The Tawang Monastery, India’s largest, stands majestically amidst snow-covered peaks, offering spiritual solace and breathtaking views. For snow lovers, the region turns into a winter wonderland, ideal for trekking, snowball fights, and capturing picturesque moments. The journey through Sela Pass, blanketed in snow, adds a sense of adventure, making Tawang a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful yet thrilling winter escape.

Conclusion

Exploring India during the winter months delivers tropical oases and true winter wonderlands all within one country. Whether you’re looking for an opportunity to hit the slopes or to sit in the sun, these eight destinations will make your winter holiday dreams come true.

Jitaditya Narzary

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