As winter are on it's peak, where there are some who want to spent their winter vacation with the cozy blanket and sipping hot chocolate, but there are few like us who  embark its journey to discover new place to make their vacation memorable. From snowy landscapes of Himachal Pradesh to the relaxing Kerala, India offers a wide diversity of destinations to visit in January in India. That crater the every traveller dreams of winter vacation. This blog will be your guide to an unforgettable journey to the winter destinations in India.  

1. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

  • Ideal Duration: 2-3Days
  • Places to Visit: Apharwat Peak, Outer Circle Walk, Rani Temple, Ningle Nallah, Alpather Lake, Kongdori, Ferozepur Nallah, Ziarat of Baba Reshi
    Saint Mary"s Church, Seven Springs, Tangmarg
  • Things to Do: Gondola ride, Skiing, Snowboarding, Trekking, Shopping
  • Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul Alam International Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Srinagar Railway Station

Located atop an Indian map, Gulmarg is known as the winter paradise. Situated at the high elevation of 2730m above sea level amid the Pir Panjal Range of Himalayan charm, will offer you a great escape from the chores of the world. The destination is covered with the exquisite panoramic snow covered Himalayan peaks, meadows of vibrant flowers, chasmic ravines, valleys of evergreen forest and lots of winter sports activities.

It is one of the pioneer winter sports destinations for the adventurous lovers that indulge you with the thrive of skiing and snowboarding. It also catches the attention of newly wedded couples. Tranquil ambience with the frosty tapestry makes it one of the perfect honeymoon destinations. Gulmarg is known for its popular Bollywood films shooting destinations.

For adventurous enthusiasts Gulmarg has an Indian Institute of Skiing and mountaineering. That offers a lot of courses on trekking, mountaineering, skiing and snowboarding. Along that you will find world’s second-highest Gondola ride here in Gulmarg.

2. Sonamarg, Jammu & Kashmir

  • Ideal Duration: 2-3  Days
  • Places to Visit: Thajiwas Glacier, Zoji La, Baltal Valley Vishansar Lake, White water rafting, Nilagrad River, Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, Gangabal trek, Krishnasar Lake
  • Things to Do: Camping, Trekking, White Water Rafting, Fishing, Horse Riding,
  • Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul Alam International Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Srinagar Railway Station

Only a few kilometers away from Gulmarg you will also find another frosty paradise of North India, Sonmarg. It is an emerging tourist tapestry situated in the heart of Jammu & Kashmir state of India located only 80 kilometers northeast of Srinagar. Here a snow covered carpet will welcome you in the landscape of snow packed fields, mystical glaciers and serene lakes that encaptivate you in the tranquil environ. It makes Sonamarg a best holiday destinations in India in winter

The allure of mystical great Himalayan glaciers like the Machoi and Kolhoi fascinate the Sonmarg, that serve a great way to the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. This will open the door to the mesmerizing charm of the mountain lakes such as Gangabal,Vishansar, Cadsar, Satsar and Krishnasar. Further the cascading waterfalls spell the boundless beauty.


3. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh

  • Ideal Duration: 3-4 Days
  • Places to Visit: Kheerganga Trek, Yanker Pass, Sar Pass Trek, Pin Parbati Pass, Tosh, Parvati River, Chalal, Manikaran Gurudwara, Rasol, Malana, The Evergreen Cafe
  • Things to Do: Trekking, Camping, Stargazing, Skiing, Snowbording, Ziplining
  • Nearest Airport: Kullu Bhuntar airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station

If you are looking for solace amidst the breathtaking landscape of Himachal Pradesh. Kasol, a quaint village nestled in the lap of Parvati Valley, enchants you with the picturesque havens. Known for its sensuous beauty, vibrant culture and panoramic views, Kasol serves as a playground for backpackers, trekkers and natural enthusiasts. Entering the village will take you to the land of coniferous flora and fauna. Where the crisp scent of Pine trees amid the dense forest of the region take your sight.

Popularly known as the ‘Amsterdam of India. Kasol is also famous for its trekking trails into the heart of mystical Himalaya. From here you can go to Kheerganga, Yanker Pass and Pin Parbati Pass trek. Also from cozy guest houses to riverside campsites will give you a warm experience of village beauty.

Known as ‘Little Israel’, Kasol offers you a great experience of Israeli culture and cuisine, as the town is inhabited by quite a number of Israeli people. Further a short drive from the town lets you in the homeland of regional culture, Malana. Another popular destination Bhuntar and Manikaran is also situated near Kasol. Also while enjoying the natural charm of North India, don’t forget to take a drive to the flea market, where you will find items, like souvenirs, pendants and semi-precious stones.

4. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

  • Ideal Duration: 3-5 Days
  • Places to Visit: Bhagsu Nag village, Kareri Lake, War Museum, Gyuto Monastery, Tsuglagkhang Complex, Bhagsu Falls, St. John In The Wilderness Church, Dharamshala Film Festival, Bhagsu nath Temple, Jwala Devi Temple, Dalai Lama Temple, Tibet Museum
  • Things to Do: Paragliding, Camping, Trekking, Rock Ckimbing, Rappelling, Paragliding
  • Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Pathankot Railway Station

Lying in the shadow of the mighty Dhauladhar Range, Dharamshala is a picturesque hill station and winter capital of Himachal Pradesh. Nestled in upper slopes of the Kangra valley, The city beckons travelers with its serene landscapes, spiritual ambience and vibrant Tibetan culture. It offers a great fusion of tranquility, thrill and spirituality. Today the city is home to the great Buddhist leader Dalai Lama. But In the colonial era it was a British hill station.

Where lower Dharamshala is known for it’s market, but as you reach the upper reaches so the thick pine cedar and Himalayan oak forests surround the township of Mcleodganj. Where you can witness monks engrossed in prayer and soak in the spiritual vibes. Also the Neo-Gothic architecture of the town showcases the heritage. Trekking is another great adventure activity tourist can enjoy in Dharamshala. A short hike to Dharamkot offers breathtaking vistas of the Kangra Valley and surrounding mountains.

Along with its serenity the city also attracts tourists for its traditional handicraft and artefacts like Thangka Paintings, Kangra Paintings. Also heritage museums, bustling vibrant markets and cuisine will fascinate you.


5. Kullu-Manali, Himachal Pradesh

  • Ideal Duration: 4-5 Days
  • Places to Visit: Hadimba Devi Temple, Solang Valley, Tirthan Valley, Manikaran Gurudwara, Great Himalayan National Park, Gulaba, Solang Nullah, Rohtang Pass, Manu Temple, Tibetan Monasteries, Hampta Pass, Jogni Waterfall
  • Things to Do: River rafting, Paragliding, Camping, Trekking, Ziplining, Zorbing, Mountain Biking, Mountaineering
  • Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station

Amid the snow packed Himalayan peaks, Kullu-Manali offers a beautiful paradise for tourists for their winter trip in India. The dense lush forest, white packed cloud and vibrant floral beauty capture the hearts of the visitors. The town lure the tourists with their great offering to the mystical Malana to serene divine place of Manilkara. It also offers a bucket full of adventure activities where you want paragliding, rafting, mountain biking, trekking or many other. This will be a great destination for solo travelers, honeymooners and adventure enthusiastic.

Stretched out at the bank of River Beas, Kallu is called the “land of the Gods.” That pleasantly offers surprising diversity, When you enter the town the divine aura of the regional deity will take your attention. Further the magnificent charm of the destination characterized by the lush green forest, beautiful valleys, cascading streams, giggling rivers and vibrant orchards.

A few kilometers away on the bank of river Beas, Manali is seen comfortably sitting in the lap of North Indian mountains. In Manali visitors will get a straight encounter to the raw beauty with serenity that looks like dreams come true. Where Kullu offers the gateway to the Great Himalayan National Park, there in Manali tourists will enjoy the luxurious stay, tranquil ambience and soul soothing beauty.

6. Auli, Uttarakhand

  • Ideal Duration: 2-3 Days
  • Places to Visit: Gurso Bugyal, Kwani Bugyal, View Points, Chenab Lake, Trishul Peak, Joshimath, Rudraprayag, Nandaprayag
  • Things to Do: Camping, Cable Car Ride, Skiing, Trekking, Skiing, Paragliding, Ropeway Ride
  • Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Rishikesh Railway Station

Situated at the high elevation 2,800 m, Auli that originally developed as a paramilitary base, now known as “The Skiing Paradise Of Garhwal.” The small picturesque town is dotted with several apple orchards, coniferous forest and Himalayan wildlife. Apart from its serene beauty, Auli is also the home ground to several adventure activities. Here in the wonderful landscape of Auli tourists will also witness the wonderful charm of Garhwal Himalaya.

For its clean environment and smoothing slope Auli is popular among tourists and professionals alike. Along that tourists will also enjoy the spectacular views of some of India's highest peaks, including the second-highest in the country Nanda Devi. Auli also opens the door to the Valley of Flowers and Nanda Devi National Park, Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara and popular trekking destinations such as Gorson Bugyal, Pangerchulla Summit and Tapovan.

If you are looking for an off-beat winter destination, Auli is the perfect one where you enjoy India’s longest cable ride over the snowy slopes, spectacular views of Himalaya.

7. Nainital, Uttarakhand

  • Ideal Duration: 2-3 Days
  • Places to Visit: Naina Devi Temple, St. John Church, Governor's House, Naini Peak, Tiffin Top, Eco Cave Gardens, Gurney House, Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo
  • Things to Do: Camping, Paragliding, Ridge Camping, Parasailing, Trekking, Rappelling, Horse Riding, Water Zorbing, Angling
  • Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Kathgodam Railway Station

In Kumaon Himalaya, Nainital is a charming lake resort and serves one of superb winter vacation spots in India for tourists. Developed as a previously summer capital of the United Provinces during the British era. The Himalayan town is a picture perfect hill station of Northern India, located at the altitude of nearly 2,000 m above sea level. Surrounded by seven hills, popularly known as “Sapta-Shring’ the town offers the panoramic views of sparkling water of the Naini lake.

Also the mythological saying regarding the Naini lake revolves around the goddess “Sati”. It is firmly believed that the lake has been formed when the eyes of Sati fell at this spot. However the culture and tradition of the town also hypnotize the visitors to its lure. Along with that the splendid landscape of the town offers you a lot for adventure. Beat it’s about boating, paragliding, water zorbing or more you will enjoy you every moment here

The stronghold of British presence can be seen by the cluster of vibrant villas and bungalows. That further amplified by the colorful flora and fauna of nearby greens are another captivating site of the town. If you are couples, families or solo travelers Nainital will welcome you with a warm heart.


8. Binsar, Uttarakhand

  • Ideal Duration: 2-3 Days
  • Places to Visit: Binsar Wildlife sanctuary, Gananath Temple, Kasar Devi Temple, Bineshwar Mahadev Temple, Khali Estate, Pariyadeva Pashan
  • Things to Do: Trekking, Paragliding, Bird Watching, Wildlife Viewing, Forest Walk, Skiing, Rafting, Shopping
  • Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Kathgodam Railway Station

If you get bored of the popular destination and want something new to try, Binsar is another charming destination that catches the attention of the tourist while they think of traveling in the winter season. Nestled in the lap of snow-laden Himalayan peaks and surrounded with serene beauty the town offers a winter paradise. As you enter the town the coniferous forest packed with the oak, pine deodar and rhododendrons welcomes you with its looming branch and scent breeze.

While strolling in the town tourists will get the glimpse of Himalayan life, culture and traditions. As you step out from your cozy stay the giant Himalayan peaks catch your sight. You will see the sky high peaks of Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Shivling and Trishul. You can also enjoy the trekking trails of Himalayan charms that are full of thrill and adventure.

In this small beautiful hamlet the charm of Himalayan fauna and flora is also grabbing you with them. Binsar opens the gateway to the Binsar Wildlife sanctuary, where tourists will get the glimpse of rare animals, birds and flower species.


9. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

  • Ideal Duration: 2-3 Days
  • Places to Visit: Lake Mist, Cloud’s End, The Mall, Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, Camel’s Rock Garden, Happy Valley, Mossy Falls, Soham Heritage and Art Culture, St. Paul‘s Church, Kasmanda Palace, Shedup Choepelling Temple
  • Things to Do: Trekking, Paragliding, Nature Walk , Camping, Rock Climbing, Rappelling, Rafting, Mountain Biking, Shopping
  • Nearest Airport: Jollygrant Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Dehradun Railway Station

Mussoorie is ideally known as Queen of the Hills for its exceptional bliss of nature. This beautiful hill station takes you to your dream destination and opens the gate to the abode of divine Ganga and Yamuna. A very unique scene you can have there is the winter line, a rare natural phenomenon that astonished the tourists. It serves a captivating paradise for leisure travellers and honeymooners.

The British in the early 19th century found this ridge offering great views and a salubrious climate. In the beautiful vicinity of the hills, Mussoorie has been one of the great mountain retreats for tourists since then. Known for its pristine waterfalls, serene beautiful natural sceneries just riddle the heart of visitors. Only a few hour's drive from Delhi takes you to the land of incredible beauty. Popular as the perfect summer resort for tourists, its captivating beauty in winter also attracts the tourists. When a blanket of snow flakes embraces the Mussoorie.

When the Chuckling mountain breeze encounters the shiny sun rays in the morning that is a paradisal feeling that one can experience in Mussoorie. It is the perfect destination for travelling with parents and friends.

10. Jaipur, Rajasthan

  • Ideal Duration: 3-4 Days
  • Places to Visit: Amer Fort, Jaigarh For, Nahargarh Fort, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Wax Museum, Birla Temple, City Palace Fort, Galtaji Temple, Kanak Vrindav, Jal Mahal, Albert Hall Museum
  • Things to Do: Jungle Safari, Sky Waltz Balloon Safari, Cycling, Bike Riding, Zorbing,
  • Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Jaipur Junction Railway Station

Jaipur, the Pink city is really a treasure trove of Indian rich culture and heritage. It is home to the composite culture where the kaleidoscope of brightly turbaned men with proud moustaches and women with twinkling anklets in colorful swirling ghagras welcomes tourists with warm hearts.  Also the fusion of modern amenities amplifies the beauty of India’s heritage and royalty.

Away from the modernity of the cities, if you have a craving to get the essence of Royalty then the Pink City of India is the perfect destination for those. Being part of India’s Golden Triangle along with Delhi and Agra it opens the gateway to the regal royalty of India’s heart. Jaipur is famous for its UNESCO sites like Jantar Matar and Amer Fort along with its magnificent forts, palaces, temples, and museums. Also strolling in the brims with bustling local bazaars gives a glimpse of the vibrant lifestyle of locals.

Tourists will also enjoy the vibrant cultural activities of the city especially in festival seasons. Apart from that you can also have the fun of traditional foods of Rajasthan with the delicious cuisine like Ghewar, Pyaaz Kachori, and Dal Baati Churma. Further the handicraft also represent the great old charm of the City.

11. Munnar, Kerala

  • Ideal Duration: 2-3 Days
  • Places to Visit: Eravikulam National Park, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Atukkad Waterfalls, Echo Point, Pothamedu Viewpoint, Tea Museum, Kundala Lake, Tea Museum, Anamudi Peak, Kalari Kshethra, Tea Estate
  • Things to Do: Jeep Savari, Trekking, Camping, Bamboo Rafting, ATV Bike Rides, River Crossing, Mountain Biking, climbing
  • Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Aluva  Railway Station

In the beautiful territory of Kerala, Munnar is a perfect tourist destination of Western Ghat’s charm. A lush green carpet rolling around Munnar makes it a serene destination of South India. Dotted with splendid emerald plantations and cascading water, Munnar rises at 1,600 m above sea level. Once served as the summer resort of the British government in South India, Munnar still carries its beautiful legacy of mystical greenery, picturesque ambience and divine aroma.

Here in the tranquil environ of the town the mixed aroma of tea, coffee and cardamom fascinate you. Packed with bountiful natural treasures, Mummer offers a wide range of awe-inspiring views. Anamudi, the highest peak of South India, is also situated here. That makes Munnar a must-visit destination for trekkers and backpackers. It is a perfect paradisiacal town replete with gorgeous greenery, valley and mountains. Also a plethora of flora and fauna enhance the wild beauty of town national parks and sanctuaries.

Mumman is often referred to as the Kashmir of South India for its myriad shades of green landscape. The town is situated at the confluence of three giggling rivers - Nallathanbi, Mudrapuzha and Kundala. That also refers to the literal meaning of Munnar. The town landscape turns purple and blue when the beautiful and vibrant Neelkurinji Flower blooms every 12 years.