Slip into your quilt and read a book near fireplace confined into a warm room. Or, scream, shout out loud as you go skiing in one of the top winter holiday destination of India. What are you going to prefer?

India is guest friendly nation and its hospitality is remarkable even in the distant places of the world. Though, India welcome visitors throughout the year but it is in winter that there is a sudden increase in the footfall. One can witness snow covered peaks, exciting nightlife, festivities, beach parties, romance and much more by spending a winter holiday in India. Here are some popular destinations that make India a must visit place during winter.

Rajasthan

There’s nothing better than spending nights resting over the golden sand and under the twinkling stars! Rajasthan is not complete without its enchanting cities like Jaisalmer, Jaipur and Jodhpur. The entire state and not just handful cities get a special mention in the list of winter holiday destinations in India. Peppered with countless Palaces, Havelis and Forts, winter season is perfect to enjoy a walk through the marvellous masterpieces of the Rajput’s. While architecture and history keep you engaged through the day, the mouth-watering food, incredible hand desert safaris entice you by evening. Shopping, camel ride, folk dance and puppet show are indispensable part of trip to Rajasthan.

Also Read:

Discover What to See and Things to Do in Rajasthan
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Kerala

Rather than spending your winter holidays in India by the fireplaces, get away to the land that never has seen a cold winter. Kerala is one of the best places to visit in India in winter. The ‘God’s Own Country’ has plethora of options to make you trip a memorable one. This city enthrals everybody in its own special way. Sun-worshippers head towards beaches of Kovalam while leisure-seekers enjoy backwaters at Alleppey and Kumarakom. Wildlife enthusiasts explore wildlife reserves and nature lovers prefer hill stations. Ayurveda massages offer rejuvenation of body while the peace of mind is achieved by Yoga.

[Read more about Most Beautiful Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala.]

Auli

Slowly but steadily gathering the limelight, Auli is a must visit place to visit in India in winter. A heaven for skiing lovers, this ‘skiing capital of India’ conducts National Championship of Skiing in January. Whether a newbie or a pro, everyone loves to try skiing here. The snow covered peaks of the Mana Parbat, Neelkanth and Nanda Devi offer a breath-taking 360 degree view of the hills. It is getting a place in the bucket list of numerous honeymoon couples as a best destinations for honeymoon. Though the trip could be short but it will be worth remembering for a lifetime.

Shimla

Cuddle with your better half in the chilling winters of the Shimla. Cold breezes pave a way for a romantic holiday. Prominent as one of the best winter holiday destinations in India, this ‘queen of hills’ fascinates adventure lovers and honeymooners alike. Put up your coats and hunting shoes to frolic around in the snow. Participate in Winter Sports Festival and try skiing here.  Doesn’t matter that you love snow or not, whether you enjoy skiing or not, Shimla has something for all. Take some time put to pay homage to Lord Hanuman at Jakhoo. Buying souvenir for near and dear ones from Mall Road is a must.

Goa

Come the faint whispers of winter and Goa starts brimming with lots of activities, party people, honeymooners, beach parties and carnivals. The casinos in Goa get crowded in winters that is why they are also acclaimed as the ‘Las Vegas of India’. Besides this, what makes Goa best winter holiday destination in India is the exhilarating nightlife, the best in India. Let the waves tickle your feet and collect some sea shells as they return. Getting enchanted with the Sunburn festival is very common. Explore a thriving market or attend a bustling party or go on a walk exploring the heritage with stops at churches and forts. Do save some energy for New Year celebration after enjoying the vibrant Christmas.

Also Read:

Have Fun & Relax with these Things to do in Goa
Relax & Rejuvenate at Luxury Spa Resorts in Goa

Andaman Islands

Explore the underwater life at Andaman Islands this winter. Dropping this place from the list of places to visit in India in winter is a big mistake. Beaches in Andaman is truly breath taking. Water sports activities become the centre of attraction for all the adrenaline junkies. Dive deep through the sea or sit by the beachside enjoying the best sunset view. You won’t blame yourself for getting pampered here. This serene destination is sure to add a thrilling factor to your trip. You are going to enjoy each and every moment of your stay here.

[Check out our Andaman holiday packages.]

Lakshadweep

A cluster of 39 small Islands, Lakshadweep is amongst the best places to visit in India in winter. Transparent beaches and pristine blue water aren’t the only factors to fall in love with this place. It’s gorgeous with tropical underwater life that you can keep on exploring. Give a try at Kayaking and Yachting and make your trip a memorable one. You will find this island tranquil and unspoiled that you be afraid to spoil it with your presence. Look at the horizon while relaxing on a hammock. Lakshadweep is so good that even this becomes a preferred activity.

Delhi

Shocked to find this name here? Relax! Delhi is also amongst winter holiday destinations in India. Attracting all the history buffs, the capital of India has so much of historical importance. Yet, it is equally visited by foodies and shopaholics. With soaring high temperatures, it becomes really difficult to step out during summer. But winter is so pleasant that rather than visiting hill stations, people start gathering here. New Year parties and not to forget Republic Day parade are the centre of attractions for people from distant places. Do carry some extra woollens to protect yourself from chilling winters of Delhi.

[Take a look at places to visit in Delhi.]

Nainital

Spend your winter holidays amidst snow caped mountain peaks. Feel the love in the air and expect the most romantic honeymoon of your life at Nainital. This is amongst the best places to visit in India in winter. It is still safe from being overcrowded and pollution. This adds to its natural magnificence. Treat your kids and loved ones by allowing them to witness the best snowfall of their life. This wonderland is an exception in its own. For solitude seekers, this is the best option to be at. Nainital Lake which is surrounded by seven splendid mountains is sure to cast a magical spell on you.

Corbett National Park

India doesn’t only entertains romantic couples and adventure lovers but wildlife enthusiasts are also welcome in winter. If in India during winter, don’t miss to visit Corbett National Park. You will be pleased to visit this winter holiday destination in India. Spot a tiger and other wild animals and see how many of them you can recognise. It is known as ‘Paradise of Tigers’. This National Park offers ultimate escape from perpetual traffic noises and bright city lights. A jungle safari expedition will beguile you. This is the wonderful option to explore the mysteries hidden amidst the plush foliage.

[Check out Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Park in India.]

Whether you visit one or all of the above mentioned places during your winter trip in India, one thing is for sure; you are going to have a bag full of wonderful memories that you can cherish for a lifetime.

Updated by: Diksha Khiatani

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Ashish Gupta is a travel writer by profession who earns his bread and butter by writing and uses his skills to market holiday destinations in India. Beware and brace yourself for a 30 minute lecture on travel, if you happen to mention about Kerala and Goa in front of him.