The winter season has started setting in, giving relief from the scorching summer temperatures. It is the season when most rush into their warm blankets & switch on their television to watch their favourite television programs, sports, or news, with their hot cup of coffee. But others dare to plan a chilly winter break to satiate their craze, exploring the picturesque natural wonders, including lakes, mountains, etc. So, if you are one of them, then today, we bring you a checklist of the best winter holiday destinations in India, where you can weave a chain of reminiscing memories.
When spending a long weekend vacation with our loved ones, we can imagine snowy hills, chilling waves, glassy ponds, sparkling snow, adventure activities like skiing, bonfires, & cheering with boozing shots. If you want to experience all these, there are places to visit in India with friends or for a romantic getaway. But finalising a particular destination can swallow most of your time thinking. So, let’s save you time by bringing the checklist of those places in India worth visiting during the winter season.
Best 20 Winter Holiday Destinations in India
1. Coorg
Coorg, now also known as Kodagu, is a beautiful travel destination in Karnataka. Nestled in Sahyadris, this charming hill is appealing with its natural beauty, encircled with breathtaking landscapes & lush-green coffee plantations. It is famously called the ‘Scotland of India’ where one can imagine the winsome picture of moving clouds, & sky touching hills. Besides enjoying the mesmerising views of scenic vistas, you can also explore adventure sports here.
Top Tourist Attractions In Coorg
- Raja’s Seat
- Iruppu Falls – Brahmagiri
- Mallalli Falls
- Abbey Falls
- Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple
- Nagarahole Tiger Reserve
- Mandalpatti Peak
- Talakaveri Temple
- Dubare Elephant Bathing Spot
- Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Top Activities To Do In Coorg
- Watching the cascading waterfalls
- Trekking via lush green landscapes
- Enjoying jeep safari
- Rock climbing
- Spending time with jumbos at Dubare Elephant Orphanage
- Admiring the scenic change in the sky colours & enjoying the sunset view
2. Shillong
Shillong, the capital hill station of Meghalaya, has exquisite attractions like lakes, waterfalls, lush greenery, & museums. If you visit this place during the monsoon season from June to September, your travel journey may become uneasy due to substantial rainfall. We suggest you go during the winter season, as the weather this time is very pleasant & calm. Moreover, you won’t be expecting much rainfall.
Top Tourist Attractions In Shillong
- Elephant Falls
- Umiam Lake
- Don Bosco Museum
- Ward’s Lake
- Air Force Museum
- Laitlum Canyon
- Shillong View Point, Laitkor Peak
- Rhino Heritage Museum
- Ever Living Museum
- Mawlynnong
- Golf Links
- Spread Eagle Falls
Top Activities To Do In Shillong
- Visiting the pristine village – Mawlynnong
- Exploring amazing view at Umiam Lake
- Trekking
- Exploring the ancient artefacts & tribal culture at Don Bosco Museum
3. Delhi
Delhi, the metropolitan capital of India, makes it to the list of best winter holiday destinations in India. The city is dotted with many attractive places that drive the attention of tourists, ranging from architectural marvels, lush gardens, numerous monuments, & much more. If you want to explore the city’s rich culture, & true glitz, then avoid exploring during the hot summers & humid monsoons but visit during the onset of the winter season. You can search for the best places to stay in Delhi to plan your weekend vacation.
Top Tourist Attractions In Delhi
- Qutub Minar
- Red Fort
- Humayun Tomb
- Jantar Mantar
- Lotus Temple
- India Gate
- Lodhi Garden
- Chandni Chowk
- Connaught Place
Top Activities To Do In Delhi
- Visiting monuments
- Exploring Rashtrapati Bhawan, Parliament House, Jan Path, & more
- Admiring the marvel architectures of temples, Connaught Place, etc
- Strolling through streets of Chandni Chowk, & shopping
- Savouring the delicious local street foods & cuisines
4. Mussoorie
Mussoorie is famously called Queen of Hills. The famous weekend getaway destination is nestled on the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan Ranges in Uttarakhand. Being one of the notable hill towns in India, it is gifted with natural beauty, where one can enjoy having a nature walk amid the clouds. You can enjoy a memorable time soaking in its refreshing sunshine.
Top Tourist Attractions In Mussoorie
- Lal Tibba Scenic Point
- Bhatta Falls
- Company Garden
- George Everest House
- Shedup Choephelling Buddhist Temple
- Jharipani Waterfall
- Kellogg Memorial Church
Top Activities To Do In Mussoorie
- Enjoying the fantastic view of waterfalls
- Boating at lakes
- Ropeway ride
- Nature walks
- Praying at temples & monasteries
- Watching the lovely view of sunset
5. Shimla
Shimla is undoubtedly the most evergreen hilly travel destination in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the best romantic weekend getaways for honeymoon couples, where they can enjoy adventure activities like skiing & enjoying the joyous Kalka-Shimla toy train ride. You can also book your staycation at the best resort in Mashobra, as it is very close to Shimla, famous for its waterfall, babbling streams, lush oak forests, & fruit orchards.
Top Tourist Attractions In Shimla
- Christ Church
- Shri Hanuman Mandir
- Kali Bari Temple
- Scandal Point
- The Ridge
- Annadale Ground
- Mall Road
- Lakkar Bazar
- Green Valley
Top Activities To Do In Shimla
- Enjoy the Kalka-Shimla toy train ride
- Shopping at Mall Road
- Ice-skating
- Taking blessings of Lord Hanuman at Jakhoo Temple
- Beholding beautiful scenic vistas
- Camping
- Trekking
6. Khajuraho
Khajuraho is one of the renowned travel spots to explore during your weekend vacation. This famous place is stocked with ancient 12th-century Hindu & Jain temples. Khajuraho ranks among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, & grabs the attention of tourists with its erotic sculptures built during the Chandela Dynasty. To explore this place’s prosperous historical marvel, catch up with the winter dance festival organised here.
Top Tourist Attractions In Khajuraho
- Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
- Chaturbhuj Temple
- Matangeshwar Temple
- Raneh Waterfalls
- Panna National Park
- Archaeological Museum
- Ken Gharial Sanctuary
- Adinath Temple
- Beni Sagar Dam
- Pandav Waterfall
- Erotic sculptures
Top Activities To Do In Khajuraho
- Visiting various temples
- Beholding the sight of waterfall
- Seeing the preserved relics & sculptures of 9th & 12th century
- Exploring wildlife
- Watching the erotic sculptures
- Walking around tranquil surroundings at Beni Sagar Dam
7. Munnar
Munnar is one example in Kerala that proves that beauty also lies in South India. Popularly called Paradise for Nature lovers, the beauty & charm of this southern hill town has always attracted tourists from all over India. It is a must-place to explore with your loved ones for its exotic flora & fauna, misty surroundings, waterfalls, & tea plantations. There are best places to stay in Munnar for your comfy staycation.
Top Tourist Attractions In Munnar
- Eravikulam National Park
- Pothamedu View Point
- Mattupetty Dam
- Kalari Kshethra
- Tea Gardens
- Tea Museum
- Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
- Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Top Activities To Do In Munnar
- Visiting the tea gardens
- Sipping hot cup of tea
- Exploring wildlife
- Watching the cultural activity
- Tasting homemade chocolates
- Trekking at Anamudi Peak
- Clicking pictures at Photo Point
8. Pondicherry
Pondicherry, now known as Puducherry, is a spirited French colony in India that you should visit during the winter in December. The weather during this time is pleasant to celebrate the new year with your loved ones. Moreover, it is the peak tourist season for which you should make bookings in advance. Besides sightseeing, you have water sports & beach fun to create reminiscing memories.
Top Tourist Attractions In Pondicherry
- Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple
- Seaside Promenade
- Paradise Beach
- Sri Aurobindo Ashram
- The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
- Rock Beach
- Varadaraja Perumal Temple
- Chunnambar Boat House
- French War Memorial
Top Activities To Do In Pondicherry
- Basking in the sun at sea shores
- Roaming around beaches
- Boat riding
- Bird watching
- Scuba diving
- Discovering colourful corals
- Enjoying water sport activities
- Cycling tour at colonial charms
9. Rann of Kutch
The great Rann of Kutch is known to be the most extensive salt marshland in the world. The land is expanded from the great Thar Desert in Gujarat to Sindh in Pakistan. It is suggested to avoid visiting this place during the monsoon season, as it remains swamped with water due to rains. But in the winter season, it turns out in a beautiful white land, shimmering in the moonlight. Also, be a part of the famous Rann Utsav organised by the government of Gujarat.
Top Tourist Attractions In Rann of Kutch
- White Desert of Kutch
- Kutch Museum
- Dholavira
- Vijay Villas Palace
- Aaina Mahal
- Kala Dungar
- Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
- Lakhpat
Top Activities To Do In Rann of Kutch
- Visiting Kala Dungar
- Exploring Kutch Museum to know the history
- Witnessing rich heritages at Aaina Mahal & Prag Mahal
- Experiencing camel ride on Mandovi River
10. Mumbai
Mumbai also counts among the top weekend getaways in Maharashtra for honeymooners & family vacationers. The metropolitan city is stocked with many top attractions, including the famous Bollywood industry. Besides this, you will also love to explore its colonial-style building, fishing colonies, mesmerising beaches, extensive markets, & for favourite street food – Vada Paav.
Top Tourist Attractions In Mumbai
- Gateway Of Mumbai
- Shree Siddhivinayak Temple
- Marine Drive
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
- Colaba
- KidZania Mumbai
- Elephanta Caves
- Global Vipassana Pagoda
- Kanheri Caves
- Nariman Point
Top Activities To Do In Mumbai
- Sightseeing
- Praying to Lord Ganesh at Siddhivinayak Temple
- Exploring caves
- Strolling the streets of Marine Drive
- Watching spotted deers at Sanjay Gandhi National Park
- Watching the film shooting
- Admiring architectural marvel of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
- Savouring Vada Paav, the famous street food in Mumbai
11. Alleppey
Alleppey is one of the famous travel destinations in Kerala that you should consider visiting during the winter (from October to February), as you can expect pleasant weather here. This southern paradise is worth visiting for multiple reasons, including the traditional houseboat stays, & Ayurvedic spas. In mid-November, the annual boat racing competition on the backwaters of the Alleppey region is also a famous attraction to behold.
Top Tourist Attractions In Alleppey
- Alappuzha Beach
- Revi Karunakaran Museum
- Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple
- Alleppey Backwaters (the famous boat racing sport takes place on it)
- Sree Subramanya Swami Temple
- Alappuzha Lighthouse
- Mullakkal Rajeshwari Temple
Top Activities To Do In Alleppey
- Kayaking
- Birdwatching
- Picnicking at Marari Beach
- Learning coconut craft
- Witnessing practise sessions for annual boat racing
- Rejuvenating yourself with Ayurveda healing session
- Gorging on seafood
- Experience the village life at Kuttanad
12. Goa
Goa is one of India’s most thrilling travel destinations, famous for its beaches, delectable dishes, music, & nightlife. Winter months are preferable to celebrate Christmas & New Year Festival with loved ones here. The other two significant festivities here include Goa Film Festival, & Sunburn. There are many best resorts in Goa where you can plan your staycation.
Top Tourist Attractions In Goa
- Palolem Beach
- Agonda Beach
- Baga Beach
- Basilica of Bom Jesus
- Varca Beach
- Benaulim Beach
- Candolim Beach
- Morjim Beach
- Dudhsagar Falls
Top Activities To Do In Goa
- Scuba Diving at Grande Island
- Visit to Dudhsagar Falls
- Snorkelling
- Kayaking
- Beach fun
- Cycling at Divar & Chorao Islands
- Hot Air Balloon flight
- Banana boat riding
- Shopping for souvenirs
13. Ooty
If you are thinking of spending a romantic honeymoon in the south of India, then Ooty is the best place in Tamil Nadu to visit. This beautiful hill town is encircled with lush greenery dotted with pine, eucalyptus, wattle, & pine trees, with tea & coffee plantations. It is a lovely place to explore for its natural beauty during winter.
Top Tourist Attractions In Ooty
- Pykara Lake
- Doddabetta Peak
- Pykara Falls
- Government Rose Garden
- Ooty Lake
- Elk Hill Murugan Temple
- Mudumalai National Park
Top Activities To Do In Ooty
- Zip lining
- Sightseeing
- Bungee swing
- Rappelling
- Bird watching
- Touring & photo shooting at Toda Village
- E-bike trails
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Boating
14. Dharamshala
Dharamshala is one of the best places in Himachal Pradesh to plan your visit in the winter season. When searching for the best resorts in India for a family vacation, you will get many options in finding the luxurious resorts in Dharamshala. This tranquil place is well-known for its blend of Hindu & Tibetan culture. The winter capital of Himachal Pradesh is a great place to discover peace by visiting many holistic spots & watching live cricket matches.
Top Tourist Attractions In Dharamshala
- Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
- War Memorial
- Library of Tibetan Works and Archives
- Bhagsunag Temple
- Gyuto Monastery
- Tsuglagkhang Temple
- Bhagsu Waterfall
- Jwala Devi Temple
- Kalachakra Temple
Top Activities To Do In Dharamshala
- Watching the live cricket matches at Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
- Visiting Buddhist monasteries & temples
- Watching the cascading waterfall
- Paying tribute to braveheart soldiers at War Memorial
15. Auli
If you have a craze for skiing, then this adventure snowy sport can be experienced at Auli, ‘The Skiing Capital of India’. Besides skiing, there are other adventure activities to enjoy, including trekking & chair car rides. It is a must-see place to visit during the winter season. To plan your visit here, you should avail the popular winter holiday packages in India.
Top Tourist Attractions In Auli
- Nanda Devi National Park
- Joshimath
- Gorson Bugyal
- Vridh Badri Temple
- Vishnuprayag
- Vasudhara Falls
- Trisul
- Shri Narsingh Temple
- Kuari Pass Trek
Top Activities To Do In Auli
- Skiing
- Chair car ride
- Trekking
- Snowboarding
- Ropeway ride
- Hiking
- Praying at temples
16. Udaipur
Famously called ‘The City of Lakes’, Udaipur is one of the best tourist places in Rajasthan to experience a romantic weekend getaway by availing the winter holiday packages. The city is dotted with numerous travel attractions to explore. Here, you can enjoy sightseeing & boat riding with your partner at Lake Pichola.
Top Tourist Attractions In Udaipur
- Udaipur City Palace
- Lake Palace
- Jagmandir
- Saheliyon Ki Bari
- Fateh Sagar Lake
- Lake Pichola
- Maharana Pratap Memorial
- Vintage Car Museum
Top Activities To Do In Udaipur
- Experience sunset boat cruising at Lake Pichola
- Nature photography at Saheliyon Ki Bari Garden
- Witness classical beauties at the Vintage Car Museum
- Praying at temples
- Horse riding at Aravali Mountains
- Enjoying Sound & Light Show at Kumbhalgarh Fort
- Exploring wildlife at Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
- Taking a look at marine life at Under The Sun Aquarium
17. Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep is also the best travel spot to plan your weekend vacation during the winter season. The place is a treasure trove of pristine sandy beaches, fresh air, clean waters, & coral life. Besides admiring its natural bliss, there are various sporting activities, like snorkelling, & scuba diving, to explore here. Lakshadweep is an ideal destination to experience peace, & have a great time with your loved ones basking in seclusion.
Top Tourist Attractions In Lakshadweep
- Kalpeni Island
- Minicoy Island
- Agatti Island
- Pitti Bird Sanctuary
- Amini Beach
- Kadmat Island
- Thinnakara Island
- Bangaram Atoll
- Marine Museum
Top Activities To Do In Lakshadweep
- Scuba diving
- Kayaking
- Yacht Sailing
- Snorkelling
- Canoeing
- Coral gazing
- Sharing some time with tribals
- Visiting the Lighthouse in Minicoy Island
- Savouring the local dishes like fish fry, coconut rice, bean curry, & moah appam
18. Kumarakom
Kumarakom is one of the top travel spots to visit in Kerala. Taking the benefit of the family getaways winter offer, you can have a great time enjoying & relaxing at the backwaters of Kumarakom. Visiting this place during winter is best to watch the migratory birds. Also, enjoy a houseboat ride, another bizarre experience with your loved ones.
Top Tourist Attractions In Kumarakom
- Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall
- Kumarakom Backwaters
- Vagamon
- Jatayu Rock
- Pathiramanal Island
- Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
- Kumarakom Beach
- Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple
- Thanneermukkom Bund
Top Activities To Do In Kumarakom
- Houseboat ride
- Birdwatching
- Rejuvenating at spa
- Watching Kathakali dance performance
- Trekking
- Watching the snake boat race
- Shopping at street markets
- Fishing
19. Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is the famous Golden City of Rajasthan to consider visiting during winter. It is famously known for Jaisalmer Fort, which fences the city. Be part of the famous Desert Festival in Jaisalmer, celebrated in January. October & March are the best time to visit here.
Top Tourist Attractions In Jaisalmer
- Jaisalmer Fort
- Sam Sand Dunes
- Gadsisar Lake
- Patwon Ki Haveli
- Salim Singh-ki Haveli
- Tanot Mata Temple
- Jaisalmer War Museum
- Desert National Park
- Jain Temple
Top Activities To Do In Jaisalmer
- Camping
- Jeep safari
- Camel ride
- Parasailing
- Sightseeing
20. Gulmarg
Gulmarg in Kashmir is the ideal destination for adventure seekers to experience skiing with friends or family. During the winter, the entire town is blanketed with white snow, giving a fantastic view for the travellers. Apart from skiing, you will also love experiencing the cable car ride.
Top Tourist Attractions In Gulmarg
- Gulmarg Gondola
- Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
- Strawberry Valley
- Seven Springs
- Gulmarg Golf Course
- Khilanmarg
- Shrine of Baba Reshi
- Gulmarg Children’s Park
- Drung Waterfall
- Ningle Nallah
Top Activities To Do In Gulmarg
- Enjoying skiing
- Cable car ride at Gulmarg Gondola
- Golfing at Gulmarg Golf Course
- Pony ride at Khilanmarg
- Visiting the ancient temples
- Birdwatching
- Photography
- Trekking
Conclusion
With the onset of the winter season, travellers look for India’s top winter holiday destinations to spend quality time with their loved ones. So today, we have helped you present the checklist of places worth visiting for their exquisite features, tourist attractions, & activities to do. To book your stay, jüSTa Hotels & Resorts helps you by suggesting bookings at its number of hotels & resorts in different states of India. Now, prepare your travel kit with essential woollens for your chilly journey.