Top 10 Winter Holiday Destinations in India

Leh-Ladakh, UT of Ladakh:

Leh-Ladakh is not for everyone. It’s for those who dare to embrace extreme winter. The cold here is biting. The air is thin. But the landscapes? They are straight out of a fairytale. The Pangong Lake freezes completely in winter. It turns into a sheet of ice that reflects the sky. Walking on it is surreal. The Chadar Trek on the frozen Zanskar River is one of the toughest treks in India, but also one of the most rewarding. Monasteries like Thiksey and Hemis look magical when surrounded by snow. The chants of monks echoing in the crisp mountain air are unforgettable.

• Who should go? Adventure junkies and seasoned travellers.
• Best time to visit Leh-Ladakh: January and February for extreme winter experiences.
• Travel tip: Roads may close due to snow. Always travel with a trusted operator like Hindustan Best Travels for safe vehicles and guides.

Manali, Himachal Pradesh:

When people imagine a snow holiday in India, Manali is often the first name that comes up. And for good reason. The Solang Valley is alive with activities like skiing, zorbing, and paragliding. Rohtang Pass, when open, offers some of the best snow views in India. The pine forests covered with white snow make you feel like you’ve stepped into a movie scene. For relaxation, there are natural hot springs at Vashisht. Perfect for dipping your feet after a cold day out. Couples love Manali for its romantic vibe. Honeymooners often choose it as their first winter trip together.

• Best time to visit Manali: December to February.
• Travel highlight: With Hindustan Best Travels, you can book Shimla Manali Tour Packages that include nearby destinations like Kullu and Naggar.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh:

Known as the Queen of Hills, Shimla is one of the great winter holiday destinations in India. The charm of its colonial architecture blends perfectly with snowy winters. Walking down the Mall Road with a cup of hot coffee is a simple joy. The toy train ride from Kalka to Shimla is one of the most scenic journeys you can take. For snow, head to Kufri, just a short drive away. Shimla is more relaxed than Manali. Families enjoy it because everything is accessible and safe. Honeymooners find the cosy hotels and charming town perfect for a romantic break.

• Best time to visit Shimla: December to February.
• Pro tip: Opt for combined Manali Tour Packages for a full Himachal winter experience.

Auli, Uttarakhand:

If skiing excites you, Auli should be on your list. Often called the skiing capital of India, it has slopes that cater to beginners and professionals alike. The cable car from Joshimath to Auli is one of the longest in Asia. It offers breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi peak and surrounding mountains. The small town is less crowded compared to Manali or Shimla, which makes it a peaceful getaway. Adventure lovers often try snowboarding, trekking, and even camping in the snow here.

• Best time to visit Auli: December to March for skiing.
• Who should go? Solo travellers, groups of friends, and anyone seeking adventure.

Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir:

Few places in India feel as magical as Gulmarg in winter. Known globally for its ski slopes, Gulmarg attracts tourists from across the world. The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest cable cars in the world. From the top, you can see snow-covered peaks that seem endless. The town itself feels like a snow globe with pine trees covered in white. Besides skiing, you can try snowboarding and sledging. Couples often choose Gulmarg for its romantic, dreamy vibe.

• Best time to visit Gulmarg: December to February.
• Travel tip: Nights can be freezing. Carry thermal wear and waterproof boots.

Rann of Kutch, Gujarat:

Switching from snow to desert, the Rann of Kutch shows another side of winter in India. Here, the landscape is a vast white salt desert that shines under the moonlight. Every winter, the Rann Utsav takes place. It’s a cultural festival with folk music, dance, handicrafts, camel rides, and delicious Gujarati food. Staying in the tent city during the festival is an experience in itself. Photographers love capturing the desert under the full moon. Culture enthusiasts enjoy the colours, sounds, and flavours of Gujarat.

• Best time to visit Rann of Kutch: November to February, especially during the festival.

Goa:

Not all winters have to be cold. Goa is India’s ultimate party destination in December and January. Beaches are lively. Beach shacks serve seafood and cocktails. Music festivals and parties light up the nights. Christmas and New Year here are celebrated with unmatched energy. For adventure, you can try water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, or scuba diving. For relaxation, sit by the sea and watch the sunset.

• Best time to visit Goa: November to January.
• Who should go? Party lovers, backpackers, and couples.

Jaipur, Rajasthan:

The Pink City is at its best in winter. Summers here are too hot, but winters bring the perfect weather to explore its forts and palaces. The Amer Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal look stunning in the golden winter light. January is extra special with the Jaipur Literature Festival, attracting thinkers and artists from across the globe. For culture lovers, Jaipur is a treasure chest. From street food to handicrafts, the city offers something at every corner.

• Best time to visit Jaipur: November to February.
• Travel tip: Book a comfortable ride with Best Taxi Service in Jaipur through Hindustan Best Travels to explore easily.

Darjeeling, West Bengal:

Darjeeling in winter is crisp, cold, and beautiful. The tea gardens look magical with mist floating over them. The Tiger Hill sunrise is the highlight of any trip, where the Kanchenjunga peaks glow in shades of gold and pink. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage, is another must-do. The toy train ride through hills and forests is a nostalgic experience. Darjeeling is peaceful, romantic, and less crowded in winter compared to summer. Perfect for couples and honeymooners.

• Best time to visit Darjeeling: November to February.

Kerala (Munnar, Alleppey, Wayanad):

For those who want warmth in winter, Kerala is the answer. The backwaters of Alleppey are calm and relaxing. A houseboat cruise here in winter is soothing. Munnar is a hill station covered with tea plantations. The cool weather makes it ideal for walking among the estates. Wayanad offers forests, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. Kerala is about slowing down. It’s about sipping chai, enjoying nature, and trying Ayurvedic massages.

• Best time to visit Kerala: November to February.
• Who should go? Families, nature lovers, and wellness seekers.