Best Winter Holiday Destinations in India

Soon it will be time for winter holidays. Are you wondering about the places to go for winter holidays in India? Here we are to help you out with the list of best winter holiday destinations in India.

If you are wondering why winter holiday destinations, it is because is the winters are the best time to explore the tourist destinations in India when there's ample respite from heat.

Winters also herald the beginning of the peak season for holidays in India. Not just domestic tourism is at its peak but the visitors from abroad also prefer to travel to India due to the favorable weather.

And while you are surfing for best winter holiday, did you know that it is also the high time for honeymoons in India. So, if you are looking for the same, think of this post as a list of best honeymoon places in India during winters.

Or you may also want to have a look at the 5 honeymoon ideas in Kerala or check out our post on ultimate romantic holiday ideas in India.

However with recent increase in travel related incidences we'd like to recommend that go through our post on how safe is India for woman traveling alone and for general tips it is advisable that you also go through our post on how safe is India for traveling.

Kerala: God's own Country

A Traditional Rice Barge wades through the Kerala Backwaters

A treat for all seasons, it’s when the monsoon departs that Kerala true natural splendor is at its zenith. Western Ghats and brackish lagoons or the backwaters bestow a unique charm on Kerala's appeal.

You name it and Kerala has it: backwaters, beaches, spice gardens, tea plantations, Ayurveda, ecotourism and abundant wildlife. That's why we have chosen Kerala as one of the top winter holiday destinations in India.

[Also check out the top places to visit in Kerala]

For beach lovers its the Kovalam, for backwaters its Thekaddy, Alapuzza and Vembanad. Then there is Munnar's lush tea plantation and salubrious weather.

If you are in for wildlife there is a bird sanctuary in Kumarakom, tiger reserve in Periyar and the world's most biodiverse ecosystem Silent Valley National Park which is home to the largest population of Lion-tailed macaque.

Kerala also happens to be the top destination in India for health and rejuvenation. You could find a number of authentic and world class Ayurveda center that offer therapeutic massages and treatments based on 3000 years old science of healing: Ayurveda.

[Plan your winter holiday in Kerala with these tour packages at IHPL]

Goa: Susegado and Siesta

Se Cathedral of Santa Catarina, Goa

Travelers often find it impossible to believe that Goa, a tiny emerald ensconced between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghat, is a part of India.

Winter is the time when the tiny emerald that is Goa is teeming with visitors. Renowned as one of the finest beach destinations in the world, Goa is very unlike the rest of the India. Its cosmopolitan culture, eclectic cuisine, vibrant nightlife and vast stretches of sandy beaches make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in India.

Visit the city in winters and join in the festivities in the city. With the arrival of Christmas and New Year, Goa is at her vibrant best. Parties, music and scrumptious cuisines along with cultural events make it the high time to visit Goa in winter especially from November till February.

Since winter also herald the wedding season in India, this is the time when newlyweds visit Goa for honeymoon. Couples could enjoy their honeymoon at some of the finest luxury hotels in Goa that boast of private beaches. Other activities could include water sport, wildlife and sussegado on Goa’s famed beaches.

For families too there is much to do in Goa in winters. Beaches, waterfalls, wildlife and adventure sports are some of the top things to do in Goa along with visit to World Heritage churches and cathedrals and river cruises.

Winter also rocks as it is the time for Christmas and New Year in Goa and people of Goa celebrate both these occasion with great gusto.

If you are planning your trip to Goa during winter, keep in mind that it is the peak season for tourism and hotels and accommodations - whether 3 stars or 5 stars - fill up in advance and even sold out during December-January. It’s always wise to book your winter holiday packages in Goa in advance so that you don’t have to compromise with your holiday.

[Know more about things to do, packages and hotels in Goa]

Tamil Nadu: Tale of Temples

Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur is one of the grandiose specimen of Dravidian Architecture

With over 3300 temples, Tamil Nadu truly is the cradle of the Dravidian culture. No wonder it attracts the second highest footfalls of overseas tourists in India. Several of the magnificent temples of Tamil Nadu have been inscribed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO that includes the Great Living Chola Temples, Group of Monuments in Mahabalipuram and the Nilgiri Mountain Railways.

There are so many things to do in Tamil Nadu for the activities include tours to some of the finest beaches down southern coast, temples, monuments and hill stations. The most popular hill station in Tamil Nadu and one of the top places for honeymoon in South India is Ooty which is also referred to as the Queen of the Hills in South.

A view to Thrill: Upper Lake, Kodaikanal

However, if you are tired of the rush of Ooty, try out the more relaxed, soothing and tranquil sister hill station Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu. Pretty lake, awe inspiring sun set points and verdant landscape makes it one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in South India.

Best time to visit

The climate of Tamil Nadu is tropical which means there is very less variation in temperature in winter or summer. The rainy season arrives with North East Monsoon and hill stations such as Ooty and Kodaikanal are at their verdant best. April and May are the hottest with mercury soaring to above 40 degree Celsius. Average temperature remains close to 30 °C during the month of November till February and that is why we have included Tamil Nadu in our list of best places to visit in India in winter especially during months of January and February.

How to reach

Tamil Nadu is well connected to its neighboring state by road. Several state transport bus as well as deluxe bus services like Volvo operates between major South Indian Cities to destinations in Tamil Nadu.

By Air

Meenambakkam Airport in the capital city Chennai is connected internationally via major airliners. Tiruchirapalli (Trichy) is connected via air from Sri Lanka as well. Other airport in Tamil Nadu only caters to domestic airlines.

By Rail

Tamil Nadu is connected to all the major cities of India via rail. The major rail heads from tourism point of view are Chennai, Trichy, Madurai and Coimbatore.

[Know more about Tamil Nadu here]

Kashmir: Paradise on Earth

Shikara Ride in Dal Lake is a must to do thing if you are traveling to Srinagar

Tourism is back in Kashmir making it once again the most preferred honeymoon destinations in India. People go to Kashmir for even during summer, but its the winter time when the combination of snow capped mountains and lush valleys makes it the top honeymoon destination in India.

Kashmir, fondly referred to as the “paradise on earth”, offers scintillating natural beauty. A mesmerizing jewel in the crown of Himalayas, Kashmir is renowned for its lush Mughal Gardens, glittering Dal Lake and picturesque environs.

Some of the most popular destinations in Kashmir include Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Srinagar and Sonamarg.You can see many a newly married couples sailing the Dal Lake in shikaras holding hands in Srinagar or throwing snow balls at each other or making snowmen in Gulmarg and swinging in each other arms as would the newly engaged couple in a Bollywood movie in Pahalgam.

Mughal Gardens in Srinagar are also a major draw among tourists from all part of the world, whereas the Gondola Ride in Gulmarg is favorite activity of couples and families. Adventure enthusiasts from around the globe also head to Gulmarg for excellent skiing opportunity and world class facilities. From December till April is best time for skiing and snow adventure in Gulmarg. In fact the first ever National Winter Games of India was held in Gulmarg Ski Resort between January and February in 1998.

If you are worried about the condition of tourism in Kashmir after the recent floods, we would recommend that you go through this post on Tourism in Kashmir after September 2014 Floods.

[Interested? Check out these cool Kashmir Tour Packages]

Rajasthan: Land of Maharajas

Rajasthan is land of desert, forts, palaces and colorful attire

An amazing concoction of colors, royalty, tradition and romance, Rajasthan is a favorite haunt of overseas tourists in India. There is so much to see and do in Rajasthan that even seasoned travelers find it hard to pick and choose from the plenty of options at hand.

Maharajas held sway in Rajputana a century ago. Although very,  they were great patrons of art and culture. All their idiosyncrasies as well as respect for tradition and art are today evident in numerous mighty fortresses, scintillating palaces, traditional dance and arts.

The capital Jaipur is the most popular place, visited by millions every year. It is closely followed my major tourist places such as Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Ranthambore and Bikaner.

[To Attend Jodhpur Riff is a good time to travel to this desert kingdom]

For the lovers of heritage Bundi is a great escape during winters whereas the honeymooners prefer it at the Mount Abu which is the only hill station in the desert state. Pushkar is yet another specialty escape where scores of foreign visitors also pay visit throughout the year.

Our honeymoon tips for people looking for winter destinations in India is to head for the sand dunes in Jaisalmer or Bikaner. Imagine the romance in the ambiance as you sit by the campfire holding each others hand gazing at starlit sky.

Palace which have been turned into heritage hotels are also a big draw when it comes to winter vacations in India. Whereas the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur has been adjudged the best romantic hotel in India, nearby Devigarh by Lebua is a heritage cum boutique hotel which attracts who's who in the world by virtue of its architectural appeal.

If you happen to be visiting Bikaner and want to get a taste of royalty as did Maharajas of yore, then we'd like to recommend Gajner Palace in Bikaner.

Here are our compilation of the 5 best heritage hotels in Rajasthan if you are interested to relive and experience the grandeur and opulent lifestyle of erstwhile Rajput warrior princes and chiefs.

[Check out some holiday packages that include destinations in Rajasthan]

Andaman Island

Anadaman is known for its pristine islands and water sport and snorkeling activities

Recently opened up for tourism, the pristine islands of Andaman and Nicobar are a veritable oasis for tourists and naturalists alike. If you are looking for honeymoon destinations in India in winter, Andaman and Nicobar group of islands are strong contenders in the race.

The islands of Andaman and Nicobar are hilly in places fringed with coconut palm, covered with tropical jungle and interspersed with flat stretches of crescent shaped beaches offering a serene retreat to the travelers.

For those intersested in watersports, snorkeling and scubadiving, Andaman is one of the best place in India to go to. Try Barefoot at Havelock for the best experience of snorkeling and also for once in a lifetime experience of doiving with the lone swimming elephant of Andaman named Rajan.

Enjoy serene moments with your spouse or family or have frolic with kids at the beaches. The beaches and islands of Andamans are the most pristine ones in India. The tropical climate makes it one of the best places in India to visit in winters.

[Interested? Check out these Andaman Island Tour Packages]

Lakshadweep

Bangaram is one of the few islands open for tourism in Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep is one of the world’s most spectacular tropical island systems. 32 sq. km of land spread over 36 islands surrounded by 4200 sq. km of lagoon rich in marine wealth. This

Dotted with swaying coconut groves, turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, friendly hospitality and salubrious climatic conditions, Lakshadweep is fast becoming a global beach destination in India. This pristine island is ideal for honeymoon, marine exploration and water sports.

[Check out this awesome 6 days Lakshadweep tour package at IndianHoliday.com]

Kullu Manali

Rohtang becomes the center of adventure activities during winters

If you are looking for honeymoon destination in India during winters, then look no further. Kullu and Manali offer one of the best romantic setting to kindle the romance.

Whereas Kullu is relatively low lying area with lush natural surroundings, Manali is a place where couples could enjoy adventure sports and frolic in snow.

Then there are ancient temples, opportunity for paragliding etc and picturesque ambiance that makes Manali a favored destination even during winters.

Honeymooners in Manali also prefer to head for Rohtang Pass nearby where there's ample opportunity for snow sports.

Kullu is one of the best places in India to visit in October as the Dussehra festivities add to the fun of  holiday. To experience snowfall, Manali is one of the top places to visit in in November, December and January.

[Know more about Kullu Manali and things to do here]

Shimla: Queen of Hills

Beauty of Shimla multiplies fourfold during Winter

A short ride from Delhi, Shimla is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in India during summers as well as winters. The major pull factors are the altitude, ambiance and bearable snow fall and cool weather. In Shimla even if you do nothing, you have done all that you have come for.

Considered one of the best hill stations in India, Shimla could be visited anytime of the year. Winters are fun in Shimla as there's snowfall which add to the romantic appeal of the place. It also gets bit cold which keeps of the crowd making it the best time and one o the best places for honeymoon in India with some sense of privacy and thrill and adventure of snow.

The Mall Road in Shimla is packed with couples during winters. Adventure enthusiasts also head to Shimla for hiking activities which is one of the things to do in here. Then there are people who visit Shimla for its colonial charm and to explore the seamless blend of tradition and modernity.

The luxe lovers visit Shimla for the award winning Wildflower Hall located at Mashobara. One of the finest luxury hotels and spa destinations in India, Wildflower Hall is one of the best heritage hotels in India. The most alluring factor is that this hotel is located in Himalayas and offer breathtaking views and serene escape and one of its king luxury in the lap of Himalayas.

[Browse through these tour packages to plan your trip to Shimla]

Dharamsala and Mcleodganj

Trekking to nearby peaks and mountain passes is most popular activity in Dharamsala and McLeodganj

Nestled in the Dauladhar range of Himalaya, Dharamsala is renowned as the seat of Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in Exile. A little ahead of Dharamsala is McLeodganj at a bit higher altitude and a different world altogether. Dharamsala and Mcleodganj are especially popular among the foreign tourists as one of the top places for volunteering in India.

As soon as you arrive in McLeodganj, everything changes. The weather, ambience, the crowd and the culture. McLeodganj is thronged by Lamas, foreigners both resident and visitors and tourists from India.

The snowcapped mountain paks of Dauladhar creates breathtaking scenery and there are plenty of hiking trails that begins with McLeodganj as the base.With increasing popularity, McLeodganj has become touristy these days but is a very good option as a winter holiday destination in India.

Lesser people visit during winter. And you may try staying at Naddi or Dharamkot for serenity and proximity to nature. This 2 relatively unknown places are the haven for honeymooners looking to have a memorable beginning of their married life.

If you are traveling to Dharamsala in winter, why not try the hike to Triund and spend the night in the camps surrounded by snow. We promise that the first rays of sun would leave you with indelible memories.

Winter could be fun any where in Himachal Pradesh as there so many places to visit and numerous things to do. Check out our travel tips on things to do in Himachal Pradesh.

[Check out Himachal Tour Packages at IndianHoliday.com]

Delhi: A Tale of Two Cities

Red Fort is a World Heritage Site and one of the top places to visit in Delhi

Sprinkled with spectacular monuments, lush gardens and an array of architectural marvels, New Delhi is best visited during winters.

Delhi also houses 3 fascinating World Heritage Sites: Humayun’s Tomb, Red Fort and Qutb Minar Group of Monuments. A city of contrast, Delhi’s diversity manifests itself in the old world charm of the walled city and modern Lutyen’s Delhi.

Recently constructed Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple are spectacular monuments high on the list of to do things in Delhi.

Delhi is also known for some of the top hotels by international brands which offer great venue for business as well as a refuge from the din of the city to let you rejuvenate. So if you are looking for that oomp factor and exclusivity, here are our recommended 5 best luxury hotels in Delhi.

One of the best ways to explore Delhi is by opting for one of the Golden Triangle Tour Packages. 

If you are interested, here's our list of top 10 places to visit in Delhi.

Khajuraho & Orchha

World Heritage SIte of Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh were constructed during Chandela Dynasty's rule

Inscribed by UNESCO as World Heritage Site, Khajuraho Group of Monuments are recognized across the globe for their carved temples. The carvings and sculptures are considered to represent the motiff of Kamasutra, the legendary Indian text on consummation.

However the erotic carvings are just the outward appearance as the inside depicts yet another world of spirituality and abstinence. It is believed that the temple architecture represents the phases of life and that one should have all the worldly pleasure before he could be wise to abdicate them and step into a more enlightened state and be one with god...something that is very close to how Siddhartha become Buddha.

Nearby, Orchha is a veritable pastoral delight. The claim to fame of this tiny little hamlet in Madhya Pradesh is temple spires and chattris (cenotaphs) along with the exquisitely carved Jahangir Mahal, a specimen of finest art of Bundela paintings.

[Plan your trip with these Khajuraho tour packages at IHPL]

Gujarat

A Lady at Parag Mahal Bhuj

Gujarat is yet another place in India which is best to travel during winters. What makes Gujarat special as a tourist destination in India is its rich heritage and culture. An array of archaeological sites, baolis or vavs, prominent temples, tribes, Great Runn of Kutch and one and the only Gir National Park that is home to Asiatic Lions and more makes Gujarat one of the most desirable places to visit in India in winter.

[Gujarat is also renowned for its International Kite Festival]

To have the best experience of holiday in Gujarat we recommend that you visit this cultural capital of India during the great Runn Mahaotsav to catch a glimpse of the state in its microcosm.

[Also check out Places to Visit in Gujarat]

One of the major draws of Gujarat are some of the most prominent Hindu temples that include Somanath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas revering lord Shiva and the Dwarkadhish Temple which is one of the 4 revered Hindu shrines encompassed during Char Dham Yatra. The best time for temple and pilgrimage tours in Gujarat is from November till February when the weather is ideal to explore the temples and religious sites which involve some physical activity in outdoors.

[Explore more things to do and Gujarat tour packages]

Related Post:
Best Winter Honeymoon Destinations in India
Top 10 Places to visit in the World before you Die
Top 10 Attractions in India
Top 10 Tourist Places in India
How to Prepare for Winter Vacations in India
Where to go for Summer Holidays in India
Places to Visit in India in July
Luxury Holidays in India
Richest Temples in India
Wildlife Holidays in India

Contributed by Nikhil Chandra

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