Winter vacations are here and it calls for travelling to some offbeat places. While few would like to curl up in their bed and sip hot chocolate, some would brave the weather and set to travel. Explore new places and enjoy the chilly breeze. From the magical Himalayas to soothing Kerala there are many places in India that one could head to during the winter.
Here is the list of places that one can explore this winter:
- Gulmarg, Kashmir- the hill town nestled in the northernmost state of India. It is a magical place and during the winter the beauty of the place amplifies. The snow-laden landscapes and frozen lakes are picturesque. The destination is perfect for indulging in snow activities like skiing and snowboarding. Trekking the trails here during winter is a little tricky due to the snow but then totally worth it. A cable car ride during the winter months gives a kick to your mood.
- Shimla-Kufri, Himachal Pradesh- Shimla Kufri is the most loved destination of North India for snow lovers. The snow-covered forests and the rolling hills attract travellers from all parts of the world. The Mall Road in Shimla gives the most panoramic view of Shimla plus it has some amazing food outlets. If you want to try ice skating at an open air skating rink then look no further.
- Binsar, Uttarakhand- Quite a virgin location when speaking of hill stations. However, it has all the valid reasons to be on the bucket list for winter travels. It presents the cloud-touching view of the Kedarnath, Trishul, and Nanda Devi peaks. Soak in the beauty of the place. To see the wide array of flora and fauna head to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a trip to zero point here and get the most out of your winter month and trip.
- Manali, Himachal Pradesh- snow-covered peaks, air infused with the smell of deodar trees, heavy snowfalls, and the Maggi stalls, all come together to create the best destination. It is like heaven on earth. Try your skills at the biking trip to Rohtang Pass, paragliding in Solang Valley, or hiking at Jogini waterfalls, Manali is the destination for adventure seekers. If you are a foodie then go for a food walk in Old Manali it will satisfy your taste buds.
- Auli, Uttarakhand- does this place need any description? as it has panoramic beauty that can cast a spell on you. Learn skiing at the peaks of Nanda Devi, Neelkanth, and Mana Parbat. The lush green landscapes and the snow-covered peaks are the best painting of nature. There are several holiday homes and ski resorts where one can enjoy the best hospitality.
- Rann of Kutch Gujarat- camp under the stars on the largest salt sand desert in sub-zero temperatures. During the winter months, the very famous Rann Utsav is celebrated which is visited by tourists from all across the globe. It is a colourful festival full of fun and frolic activities. Traditional food, authentic handicrafts, desert safari, and star gazing are all that one needs to rejuvenate. Camp in the Dhordo Village for the most spectacular stay and feel of the Kutch festival.
- Goa- if you are not a snow person and love the sand and sea. Then visit goa in the December months to witness the craziness. Though it is a small state on the western coast, people believe in living life to the fullest. It has a varied landscape. The west coast borders the Arabian Sea. The 105 kilometres are all about sandy beaches, rocks, and bays. Behind the beaches are palm forests, dunes and large rock formations. Spoke rivers flow in the sea here. Goa is green and during the winter it has an aura of cheerfulness added. Do not miss the happening parties that are organised at various resorts, hotels, and beaches. Take a trip to the churches to see pious beauty and architectural beauty.
- Arunachal Pradesh- Arunachal Pradesh is the northeastern state of India, and during the winters the mountains here witness snowfall which makes it a must-travel destination during the winters. Arunachal Pradesh, the ‘Land of Dawnlit Mountains, looks magnificent as the Sun shines on the specks of snow radiating light that gives hope. During your winter stay here do not miss diving into the aromatic taste of the local food, namely boiled rice cakes, thupkas, and momos. If you want to explore a little more then taste rice beers prepared by local communities the best beer is Apang which is prepared by fermenting rice and millet.
- Andhra Pradesh- the “rice bowl of India ” has very beautiful weather during the winter months. Thus if you want to travel and explore the magnificent beauty of its history and amalgamation of various cultures, then the winters are the best month. During the winter months, several historians and art enthusiasts head to the state to see the architectural marvel the state offers. There are museums in Andhra that exhibit sculptures, artefacts, paintings, and ancient objects that depict the times of different rulers, which is a visual treat.
- Assam- Assam is located in the northeastern part of the country and is endowed with enchanting natural beauty. Assam is situated in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas and is the largest state in the Northeast and is nestled between the river Brahmaputra and Barak. Thus during the winter months, the temperature goes very low and there is snowfall that makes it the best destination to visit during the winter. There are 51 forests and sub-forests here so indulge in a safari ride.
India has many gems of places where one can head during the winter. Depending on your preference, sand or snow, nightlife or museums, plan the vacations. All are popular tourist spots and thus will have a rush. Therefore make your bookings to travel hassle-free. The Above list has some of the finest places to travel during winter, but then it is not confined. Visit a travel agent near you and get details regarding the other must travel destinations during winter.