Winters are round the corner. And after a patient wait for most of us, this winter seems just right. To go out and explore. Therefore come let’s have a look at these 15 offbeat winter destinations, India which you must consider before you get down to planning your trip.
And then you could finalize your destination next from the 15 Best Summer Destinations in India for your summer holidays. Relaxed holidays for you and your close ones.
Planning your Holidays
We at ‘Travels With Passion’ believe that no one else can design a holiday for you and your family better than you yourself. And that a self-planned holiday gives you the freedom and the space to do as your heart desires. Also why pay your hard earned money to a travel agent when all it requires is a bit of your time. After all a little time of yours is lots of money saved which you can splurge on some great food, shopping or a better hotel.
Therefore what is the best way to go ahead for an assured enjoyable holiday? Here are some tips & tools which are available right here on Travelwisesr website. So go ahead, plan your holiday and feel good.
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Booking Flights
Check out flight booking websites like Skyscanner, Ease My Trip, Cleartrip, Yatra and others to compare prices of different airlines and then book directly with the airline that is offering the best price for your convenient time of departure. Direct bookings always ensure better customer support in case of exigencies.
Hotel Bookings
Having experienced different hotel booking platforms over a decade and more, I trust Booking.com for all our hotel bookings. Both in India and abroad. The room rates on their site are by far the best that is on offer. So go ahead and book your ‘Free Cancellation, Pay Later‘ hotel nights right here on Booking.com or by clicking their icon on this website.
Activities & Transport Bookings
Booking your activities for each destination in advance assures you that you don’t have to plan after you reach. It also ensures that you don’t waste valuable time standing in queues where tickets are required to be purchased. That’s where viator comes in offering a wide range of inventories for activities & transport with Book Now, Pay Later options. Book right here on viator.com or by clicking their icon on this website. Also check out Google Search for local travel operators.
And do check out our other trusted partner GetYourGuide.com for their options on guided tours and activities.
15 Offbeat Winter Destinations, India
India is a vast country and there are innumerable options that you have. Be it the mountains, sea, rivers, jungles or destinations famous for religious reasons. We have tried and featured here some chosen cities and regions which are best visited in the winter months. Have a look and get going. This winter have lots of fun with your loved ones. After all we all deserve it.
1. Dooars
Dooars is the gateway to the hill stations of North Bengal and Bhutan. It is famous for its tea gardens, forests, River Teesta and is an ideal destination if you are a nature lover and adventure seeker. The region is known for its wildlife sanctuaries where one can spot herds of deer, elephants, tigers, one-horned rhinos, bison, wild boars, reptiles and the rarest variety of birds including lots of peacocks.
How to Reach – The closest airport is at Bagdogra located about 70 km from Dooars. From the airport you can avail pre-paid taxis to go to both the Gorumara National Park as well as Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary. The nearest railway station is at New Jalpaiguri located 60 km from Dooars.
Travelwisesr tips –
West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation has a tourist lodge with good facilities. You can book Jaldapara Tourist Lodge online right here / Take an Elephant Ride to track wildlife and a Forest Safari. Book online Forest Safari & Elephant Ride in Dooars for Gorumara, Jaldapara & Chilapata here / Visit Buxa Tiger Reserve which is 42 km away from Jaldapara / Also visit Samsing, Rocky Island & Suntalekhola, which is known for its pristine natural beauty with tea gardens, forests and orange orchards. Moreover there is a suspension bridge over Murti river here which is a very popular attraction for tourists.
2. Tawang
The scenic city of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh bears the charm of North East India. Popularly known as the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama, this picturesque town is a holy place of Tibetan Buddhism in India.
How to Reach – The nearest airport to reach Tawang is Salonibari Airport in Tezpur, Assam located at a distance of 317 km from Tawang. However with limited flights reaching there, Guwahati airport located 480 km away is more feasible to connect to Tawang. You can hire a taxi from Guwahati or use Regional buses to reach there.
Travelwisesr tips –
The best time to visit during winter months is October, November and till first week of December after which snowfall may affect your travel / Visit Tawang Monastery and meditate in the famous monastery of Taktsang Gompa / Explore the Sela Pass, Bumla Pass, Shonga-tser Lake, Nuranang Waterfalls & Pankang Teng Tso Lake / Visit the Tibetian Settlement Market for some shopping / Try out ‘The Dragon Restaurant’ for some great local delicacies.
Do Read – 12 days in Arunachal Pradesh
3. Bodh Gaya
Gaya is a famous as a cultural and religious destination in India and Bodh Gaya – The Land of Buddha. It is here that Gautam Buddha found enlightenment under the Mahabodhi tree. Since then it is an important pilgrimage center for Buddhists around the world.
How to Reach – Gaya has an airport which has regular flights from Kolkata and Delhi. In addition there are 5 international flights to Gaya operated by Bellview Airlines, Pacific Airlines, Mihin Lanka, Thai Airways & Golden Myanmar Airlines. You can also reach Gaya by train from Kolkata which is an overnight journey. There are trains from Delhi, Mumbai and other parts of the country as well but you may find the journey time too long.
Travelwisesr tips –
Visit Vishnupad Temple which is one of the ancient and most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu / Take a 2 day trip to destinations near Bodh Gaya– Rajgir, Nalanda & Pawapuri / Do not forget to buy Tilkut, Anarasa & Lei, the winter specialty sweets of Gaya exported around the world / Combine a trip with Varanasi
4. Varanasi
The Holy City of Varanasi, also called Benaras has a written history of more than 3000 years. Known as a spiritual destination, this historic city on River Ganges has an unmatched charm of its own. Famous for its narrow lanes, temples and milk products, this city is best explored on foot. Also known as the ‘City of Lights’, it’s a city which never sleeps.
How to Reach – Varanasi has an international airport which is well connected to all parts of the country. You can also reach by train from Delhi & Kolkata which are overnight journeys.
Travelwisesr tips –
Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva early in the morning after sunrise to avoid long queues / Visit Banaras Hindu University(BHU) and visit the BHU Kashi Vishwanath Temple / Take an evening boat ride on the Ganges and round off with watching ‘Ganga Aarti’ at Dashaswamedh Ghat from your boat.
Food that you can’t miss – Have a Kachori, Subzi, Jalebi breakfast in Kachori Gali, but reach early to avoid disappointment as this special breakfast items get sold very fast / Walk to Dashashwamedh Ghat Road, a narrow lane near the Ganges Ghat (steps leading down to the river) for an English Breakfast and Fast Food at western themed restaurants / Visit ‘Kashi Chat Bhandar’ near Godowlia Road-Girjaghar crossing for some delicious Chaats (savoury snacks) / Don’t forget to feast on the Benaras specialty Lassi, Rabri & Malai. You must also taste Malaiyo, made from milk cream and which is only available during the winter months.
Do Read – Top places to visit in Varanasi
5. Udaipur
Udaipur in the state of Rajasthan is truly a royal tourist destination for travelers who love history, culture and architecture. With its beautiful artificial lakes, royal palaces, forts, lush green gardens and age-old temples, it’s a perfect romantic destination. Moreover it has lovely weather throughout the year.
How to Reach – Udaipur has its own domestic airport which is 22 km away from the center of the city. You have direct or connecting flights from Mumbai, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Delhi, Hyderabad, Goa and few others. Also, Udaipur railway station is connected with almost all cities of Rajasthan and with important cities around the country.
Travelwisesr tips – Take a boat tour on Lake Pichola / Take a ride on Mansapurna Karni Mata Ropeway / Visit Shipagram / Relish some Rajasthani cuisine at Jagat Niwas Restaurant.
6. Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a former princely state in the Indian state of Rajasthan, in the heart of the Thar Desert. Known as the ‘Golden City’ it’s distinguished by its yellow sandstone architecture. Dominating the skyline is Jaisalmer Fort, a sprawling hilltop citadel. Behind its massive walls stand the ornate Maharaja’s Palace and intricately carved Jain temples. What adds to Jaisalmer’s charm is its massive sand castles and colorful bazaars.
How to Reach – The nearest airport is at Jodhpur which is 300 km away. You can take hired cabs from there. There are trains from Delhi including the luxury train “Palace on Wheels”. Also Deluxe and ordinary buses of Rajasthan Roadways as well as many private operates connects Jaisalmer with Jodhpur, Jaipur, Mount Abu, Ahmedabad etc.
Travelwisesr tips –
Visit Patwa-ki-Haveli & Jaisalmer Fort /Take a Camel Safari & a Desert Jeep Tour / Visit Jain Temple early in the morning / Visit Kuldhara-the abandoned village / Do not miss Parasailing in Kanoi / Have dinner at one of the rooftop restaurants
7. Dalhousie
Dalhousie, the tiny tinsel town tucked away in the lap of nature is a piece of paradise. It boasts of magnificent misty mountains, pine clad valleys, fast flowing rivers, mesmerizing natural landscapes and flower bedecked meadows. This hill station has some of the most spectacular views in the world.
How to Reach – Pathankot airport is the closest airport around 75 km away. There are trains from Delhi connecting Pathankot as well. From there you can avail hired cabs to reach Dalhousie in two hours.
Travelwisesr tips –
Boating on Chamera Lake / Hike to Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary / Trek to Ganji Pahari / Do some paragliding if you the adventurous kind / Spend a few hours at Khajjiar, the mini Switzerland of India
Do Read – Dalhousie
8. Lansdowne
Lansdowne is a cantonment town and a hill station situated at an altitude of 1706 m above sea level in the state of Uttarakhand. It is one of the quietest hill stations of India and well connected but remote and peaceful in its own way. Surrounded by thick Oak and Pine trees it’s the ideal destination for a relaxed holiday and is still comparatively less crowded.
How to Reach – The nearest airport from Lansdowne is Jolly Grant Airport, in Dehradun which is 145 km away. Driving down from Delhi is another option and the distance is around 277 km. You can also take a train from Delhi to Kotdwar railway station and then avail a hired cab from there to reach Lansdowne which is 40 km away.
Travelwisesr tips –
Take a nature walk / Do boating at Bhulla Lake / Visit Tip-n-top and Lover’s Lane / Walk through the woods for an authentic Garhwali lunch at a village home which provides this service / Stay at ‘Oak Grove Inn Resort’ owned by Colonel Bikram & Neelam Rawat for some great home cooked food and hospitality
Do Read – Lansdowne – A tranquil hill station
9. Ranikhet
Ranikhet is a picturesque and relatively unexplored cantonment hill station in Uttarakhand. Located at an altitude of 1824 m above sea level, it is 59 km from Nainital and 50 km from Almora. Ranikhet which means ‘Queen’s Land’ is literally an all season tourist spot for admirers of natural beauty. The town reflects the best of the great Himalayas.
How to Reach – The nearest airport from Ranikhet is Pantnagar airport which is 119 km away. You can also take a train from Delhi to Kathgodam railway station for an overnight journey. From there you can take a hired car to reach Ranikhet which is 75 km away.
Travelwisesr tips –
Visit Bhalu Dam / Spend time in Chaubatia Orchards / Walk around in Golf Course / Enjoy some spiritual moments at Jhula Devi Temple / Seek divine blessings at Haidakhan Babaji Temple / For a complete peace trip away from the crowds at a secluded hill, stay at Holm Farm Heritage Resort, a heritage property / Combine a trip with Nainital, Kausani & Almora for a 10 day holiday
Do Read – Ranikhet
10. Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of over 3000 ft is famous for its majestic snow-capped peaks, trekking trails, natural beauty and its cultural heritage. It is a scantily populated place where adventure lovers have the opportunity to go on challenging treks. The monasteries in Spiti are renowned for spectacular murals, ancient temples and several stupas. October & November are the best time to visit in winter after which traveling is risky.
How to Reach – During winter months, Chandigarh Airport located at a distance of 522 km is the nearest international airport. You can hire vehicles from there to reach Spiti. The other option is to take a vehicle from Shimla after reaching there by train from Delhi. The NH-22 highway which runs through Kinnaur takes you to Spiti.
Travelwisesr tips –
Visit Tabo monastery / Do River Rafting / Visit Pin Valley National Park / Trek to Dhankar Lake / Visit Village of Giu to witness a Mummy / Undertake a Yak Safari / Take a Nako Village walk / Star Gazing at night / Visit Main Market Kaza / Do some shopping of socks, sweaters, shawls, roasted barley, cheese and sea buckthorn tea
11. Gulmarg
Kashmir can be an irresistibly enjoyable destination to plan a vacation throughout winters and one of the favorite sites in Kashmir is Gulmarg. It is a unique and rejuvenating winter destination with exciting winter adventure sports. The town lies in a cup shaped valley in the Pir Panjal Range of Western Himalayas. Gulmarg Gondola has the highest ski lift in the world, ascending to an elevation of 3,980 meters.
How to Reach – Srinagar is the nearest airport. You can hire a cab to reach Gulmarg which is 50 km away. The journey is breathtaking.
Travelwisesr tips –
Enjoy a cup of Kahwa tea on the roadside while traveling from Srinagar to Gulmarg / Enjoy snowfall / Do Skiing if you are an adventure lover and even if you are a novice willing to learn the art / Take the Cable Car Ride up the mountains / Try out Hot Air Balloon experience / Do not miss an Heli-skiing trip / Attend Gulmarg Snow Festival if there in December
Do Read – Gulmarg
12. Auli
Auli is a destination for all seasons but a holiday during the winters is an out of the world experience. It is one of the best ski resorts in the country. Lying amidst the majestic Himalayas, the slopes offer ski opportunities for both the novice and the expert skier. It has skiing slopes that are 2500-3000 meters high and will give you a great deal of adrenaline rush. Also, you can enjoy the surroundings having vast forest cover and thickly jacketed snowy hills.
How to Reach – Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport around 286 km away. You can also arrive by train at Rishikesh railway station and Auli is 264 km from there. Therefore you need to hire a cab from there to reach.
Travelwisesr tips –
Do Skiing & Snowboarding / Take a ride on the Gondola, Asia’s longest cable car / Explore Malari Village and Niti Valley / Do some Bird Watching/ Shop at local Joshimath Market
13. Rann of Kutch
The Great Rann of Kutch is a salt marsh in the Thar Desert in the Kutch District of Gujarat. It is about 7500 sq.km in area and is reputed to be one of the largest salt deserts in the world. Winters are the best time to visit with a pleasant weather during this time. A Rann Utsav is held every and this year it happens to be from 1 Nov 2021 – 20 Feb 2022 and would an ideal time to visit. It is a designated World Heritage Site.
How to Reach – Bhuj is the nearest airport 70 km away. Moreover Ahmedabad is the other option which is at a distance of 97 km. You can hire a cab to reach.
Travelwisesr tips –
Explore Bhuj before reaching Kutch / Witness White Salt Desert / Visit Vijay Vilas Palace / Visit Kala Dangar, the highest point in Kutch / Visit Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary / Visit Kutch Museum / Visit Dholavira to witness excavations of the Indus Valley Civilization / Visit Mandvi
14. Ooty
Ooty is a resort town in the Western Ghats mountains, in southern India’s Tamil Nadu state. Called the Queen of Hill stations, Ooty is about mesmerizing meadows, soothing environment, cool weather and a wide array of sightseeing places to visit and admire. Moreover each tourist attraction in Ooty promises a unique and lively experience that will leave you in awe.
How to Reach – Coimbatore is the closest airport around 100 km away. Moreover the other option is Mysore airport which is at a distance of 125 km. You can hire a cab to reach Ooty.
Travelwisesr tips –
Boat Ride on Ooty Lake / Visit Pykara, Emerald & Avalanche Lakes / Visit Kalhatty & Catherine Waterfalls / Visit Doddabetta Peak & Needle View Point / Visit Rose Garden & Botanical Gardens / Take a ride on Nilgiris Mountain Toy Train / Visit Wax World Museum & Tea Museum / Visit the Todda Huts / Visit St.Stephens Church / Take a trip to Chocolate Factory for home made chocolates / Combine a trip with Mysore
15. Alleppey
Alleppey or Alappuzha is a city on the Laccadive Sea in the state of Kerala. It’s best known for houseboat cruises along the rustic Kerala backwaters, a network of tranquil canals and lagoons. Moreover Alappuzha Beach is the site of the 19th-century Alappuzha Lighthouse. Also Punnamada Lake’s snake boat races are a well-known annual event.
How to Reach – Kochi airport is 75 km away. You can hire a cab to reach Alleppey.
Travelwisesr tips –
Stay in a houseboat for 2 night to explore Kerala backwaters / Enjoy an Udipi breakfast in one of the restaurants / Go in for an Ayurvedic massage / Enjoy a picnic at Masari beach / Enjoy the sunset at Pozhiyoram / Taste sweet milk porridge at Ambalapuzha Temple / Combine a trip with Kochi.
So there you have the 15 offbeat Winter Destinations in India to choose from for a memorable holiday with your friends and family.
But there is another destination which is just ideal to visit during winter months. It’s Calcutta – The City of Joy. And October is the time when you can enjoy a carnival here during Durga Puja. Come over and experience it in person next year while all of us who are already here start our celebrations in a couple of days from now.
Here is wishing all our readers a very Happy Durga Puja. May Goddess Durga bless you and your family with health, wealth & happiness.
To finalize your Winter Holidays, PIN this post for planning !!
Although in the winter I would want to escape snow and head to the once princely desert, I really do want to see the mountains in India. I’ve heard of Spiti and would love to see it one day.
You are welcome Renee. You’ll love being in India.
Great list of places to go in winter in India. Good to know that places like Varanasi and Bodh Gaya are good winter destinations too. I love the picture with the elephants!
Thanks Natascha.
Wow what beautiful list of places. Except for 4 of them in the list, I have not visited any of them and I do hope to change that. I surely have Auli on my list of places to visit for this winter. Also I think I may visit the Spiti Valley. I also love the way you have given insider information and tips.
Thanks Raksha. Happy you liked.
I have been to many of these places. And now, I have Varanasi and Bodh Gaya on my bucket list. You can even go to Bundi and Kota in winter, it’s quite close from Udaipur and pretty green .
Yes you are right. Good places to combine with Udaipur.
Is that a floating palace in Udaipur? That looks absolutely amazing! And I had no idea there were ski resports like Auli in India — looks like a wonderful place to plan a winter escape!
Being from the UK, spending winter in India sounds like a dream. Doors sounds amazing, I’d love to be in a beautiful forest with so many cool elephants. Vanarasai sounds like a culturally fascinating place. Lansdowne sounds like a great place to unwind. Thanks for putting together a great list.
My pleasure Paul. Love to see you in India.
Wow I’m always amazed at all that India has to offer. I have heard of hill stations before. They sound like such a cool experience. Spiti Valley looks absolutely beautiful. I also love your tip about planning your own holiday and not paying a travel agent. With the internet, we can do so much of this stuff ourselves!
Yes Nina India really has lots to offer. And yes why pay someone else to plan what we can easily do.
A perfect list of places to visit in India during winter as is the best time to travel in India. I have most of the places in my bucket list like Spiti valley, Bodh gaya and Ooty. Loved the artist’s work on beautifully painting the nuances of Kolkata city. Great post and thank you for sharing!
Thank be Puloma.
So many beautiful places to visit in India this coming winter. Since I read your post about Gulmarg, that’s where I want to go first when I get a chance to visit India in the winter time. It looks really pretty. i also like Lansdowne. It looks serene and not too touristy.
Welcome to India Umiko. You’ll fall in love for sure.