23 Best Places to Visit in Winter in India

While some people want the warmth of dessert, others prefer views of snow-laden mountain peaks. In contrast, few more desire fun of tropical beaches.

Here is a list of the 23 best places to visit in winter in India, combining a mixture of all the above. So plan a trip to any of these places and enjoy the postcard scenery for a picture-perfect holiday!

Here is a list of some of the 23 best places to visit in winter in India. It contains information regarding the top things to do, where to visit, the average expense spent on each trip and more to plan your trip comprehensively.

1. Gulmarg

Nestled in the northernmost region, Gulmarg is a magical town to visit in winter. During this time, its lakes get frozen, and the full landscape gets covered in snow. Thus it makes the perfect setting for trying snow activities like snowboarding and skiing. The two points where you can try it are Apharwat ridge and Kongdori. In addition, it is also connected via a cable car service called Gondola ride.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 12,500 to ₹ 14,000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Golfing, Trekking, Bird Watching, Skiing, Snowboarding, Cable Riding
• Top Tourist Attractions: Gulmarg Gondola, Apharwat Peak, Alpather Lake, Maharani Lake, Drung Waterfall

2. Shimla

Shimla, also known as the Queen of Hills, is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and one of the top places to visit in India in winter. During this period, the temperature falls even below zero and thus often experiences snowfall. Other top highlights that attract tourists from worldwide are the availability of strong coffee and the chance to ice skate and try skiing. 

Lastly, it is a photographer’s paradise thanks to its picturesque landscapes.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 4 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 6,400 to ₹ 9000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Toy Train Riding, Rafting, Ice Skating, Skiing, Visiting Temple, Camping, Paragliding
• Top Tourist Attractions: Mall Road, Jakhu Temple, The Ridge, Christ Church, Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Kalka – Shimla Railway

3. Manali

Blessed with winding roads, heavy snowfalls, towering deodars and snow-capped mountains, Manali is one of the top winter destinations in India. It offers breath-taking views of the Dhalaudhar, and Pir Panjal ranges, covered with snow almost annually. 

Moreover, here people can also find cosy homestays and hostels with dorm beds to stay for as long as they want at low prices.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 4 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 5,000 to ₹ 8000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Rafting, Skiing, Paragliding, Zorbing, Horse Riding, Sightseeing 
• Top Tourist Attractions: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Jogini Waterfall, Old Manali, Parvati Valley, Hidimba Temple

4. Auli

Auli, the skiing capital of India, is dotted with pine trees, apple orchards, and old oak. Perched at 2800m above sea level, it houses three beautiful mountains: Mana Parvat, Nanda Devi, and Kamat Kamet. Apart from skiing, Auli is also famous for its hill resort in the Himalayan range, built in the 8th Century AD. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 9,000 to ₹ 11,000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Skiing, Camping, Cable Car Riding, Trekking, Visiting Trishul Peak, Snowboarding
• Top Tourist Attractions: Gorson Bughyal, Nanda Devi National Park, Trishul Peak, Vrish Badri Temple, Chenab Lake

5. Binsar

A lesser-known hill station, Binsar is located at an altitude of 420m and is one of the best places to visit during winter in India. It is a quaint little town in Uttarakhand that is peaceful and less populated. It offers spectacular views of the cloud-touching peak of the Kedarnath, Nanda Devi and Trishul ranges. Another highlight of this place is it houses a wide variety of flora and fauna inside Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 5,500 to ₹ 7000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Bird Watching, Trekking, Paragliding, Forest Walk, Wildlife Viewing, Trying Authentic Cuisine, Skiing 
• Top Tourist Attractions: Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Zero Point, Bineshwar Temple, Golu Devata Temple, Kasar Devi Temple, Khali Estate

6. Dalhousie

Another hill from the Himachal Pradesh region, Dalhousie, forms a beautiful winter destination with snow-capped mountains and valleys. Established in 1854, this town is named after Lord Dalhousie. It held great importance among the Britishers; thus, you will also find a colonial vibe here. 

Other highlights include Scottish and Victorian architecture, pine-clad valleys, meadows, jungle and waterfalls.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 7,000 to ₹ 9000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Boating, Paragliding, Trekking, Shopping, Sightseeing, Hiking
• Top Tourist Attractions: Khajjiar, Panchpula, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Chamera Lake, Satdhara Falls, Ganji Pahari Trek

7. Rann of Kutch

Rann of Kutch, also known as India's white desert, is a part of Gujarat. It resembles the shape of a tortoise and is famous for its Rann Utsav (a cultural festival that lasts for two months). People come here from all parts of the world to witness the vast expanses of the white salt desert and try various adventure activities like hot-air ballooning. 

Moreover, as the place lies on the India-Pakistan border, you can also see some parts of Pakistan through Kutch. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 5,000 to ₹ 8000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Visiting Museum, Discover the Famed Film Shooting Location, Camel Riding, Offering Prayers at Temple
• Top Tourist Attractions: Kalo Dungar, Shree Nadeshwari Mataji Temple, White Dessert of Kutch, Kutch Fossil Park, White Dessert Bhuj

8. Goa

While there is no dedicated month to visit Goa, if you visit the place in winter, you get to attend the Christmas carnival. Also, here December is marked with the SUNBURN festival. Apart from this, this party capital of India is always thriving with loud music, delectable dishes and a crazy crowd. 

However, if you are not a party person, you can soak your feet in the soft sand and enjoy the warm sun amidst chilly weather. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 3 to 7 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 9,000 to ₹ 15000 for 3 Nights/4 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Experiencing Sunset Cruise, Exploring Goa Caves, Walking Amidst Green Plantation, Beach Hopping, Water Sporting, Hot Air Ballooning
• Top Tourist Attractions: Palolem Beach, Dudhsagar Falls, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Anjuna Beach, Aguada Fort, Baga Beach

9. Wayanad

Nestled in God’s Own Country, Kerala, Wayanad is one of India's top places to visit during winter. It is sprawling with spice plantations and wildlife. Moreover, it is also home to an exquisite range of flora and fauna. Snuggled amidst the serene hills of the Western Ghats, this place is blessed with historical caves, waterfalls, comfortable resorts and homestays. 

Furthermore, it also has a trekking trail that is pleasant to walk during winter.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 4,000 to ₹ 8000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Mountain Hiking, Zip Lining, Cycling, Trekking, Strolling Through Tea States, Boating, Cycling
• Top Tourist Attractions: Chembra Peak, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Edakkal Caves, Ghat View Point, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Banasura Sagar Dam

10. Udaipur

Udaipur, also called the Venice of the East, is blessed with several medieval marvels and lakes. Visitors come to this town from different locations to witness the magnificent Lake Palace and Jag Mandir. Another highlight of this place is it is enveloped by the stunning Aravalli Hills, thus offering breathtaking views of the peak. 

Moreover, it is the grandeur of the Rajpur Era, so that you will find a royal influence in its architecture. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Roa
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 5,000 to ₹ 8000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Ropeway Riding, Natural Trail Hiking, Walking Tout to Tiger Lake, Trying Authentic Cuisine, Offering Prayers at Temple, Strolling Beside Lake
• Top Tourist Attractions: Lake Pichola, City Palace, Sajjangarh Palace, Eklingji Temple, Jag Mandir Palace, Bagore Ki Haveli.

11. Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer, rightly called the ‘Golden City,' is located in the north-western part of Rajasthan. It is named so because of the presence of golden dunes and castles dressed in golden honey sandstone. Though it is hot and humid during the summer, December and January are the perfect months to explore this desert city. 

Also, plan your trip in a way so you can attend the great Desert Festival. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 6,000 to ₹ 9000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Boating, Exploring Fort, Desert Safari, Haveli Hunting, Quad Biking, Desert Camping, Parasailing, Dune Bashing
• Top Tourist Attractions: Bada Bagh, Gadisar Lake, Jaisalmer Fort, Folklore Museum, Nathmal ki Haveli, Vyas Chhatri, Patwon ki Haveli

12. Tawang

Located at an altitude of 3048m above sea level, Tawang is an off-beat hill station in Arunachal Pradesh. What makes it the best winter destination in India is that it receives snowfall during that period. Moreover, it also houses the 400-year-old monastery Tawang Monastery, Tawang War Memorial, and Giant Buddha Statue. 

Lastly, the place offers a close view of the Himalayan ranges. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 10,000 to ₹ 12,000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Hiking, Meditating, Sightseeing, Attending Cultural Events, Trying Unique Cuisine 
• Top Tourist Attractions: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Madhuri Lake, Gorichen Peak, Tawang War Memorial, Nuranga Falls

13. Gangtok

Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim and home to the old Indo-China Silk route, has something to offer everyone. From rich flora and fauna to colourful monasteries and high-altitude lakes, Gangtok is a wholesome place. Though the town does not receive any snowfall, the temperature drops to 4 degrees or more in winter. 

Moreover, it also offers a surreal view of the snow-capped Himalayas. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 4 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 7,800 to ₹ 9000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Paragliding, River Rafting, Trekking, Cycling, Picnicking, Taking a Yak Safari, Cable Car Riding, Shopping at MG Marg
• Top Tourist Attractions: Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, MG Road, Ganesh Tok, Tsomgo Lake, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

14. Dharamshala

Located only 18 km from Kangra city, Dharamshala is among the top winter tourist places in India. It is also called the ‘Little Lhasa’ and is encircled by the Dhauladhar ranges from all sides. Another highlight of this place is it is largely populated with Tibetans who are the followers of ‘His Holiness - The Dalai Lama.’ 

Additionally, you will find narrow streets, colonial buildings and alpine vegetation here.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 6,000 to ₹ 8000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Trekking, Paragliding, Meditating at Monasteries, Shopping, Sightseeing
• Top Tourist Attractions: Triund, Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, Namgyal Monastery Mcleodganj, War Memorial, St. John in the Wilderness Church, Library of Tibetan Works and Archives

15. Mussoorie

Also known as the Queen of the Hills, Mussoorie becomes a white paradise in winter. This is due to the heavy snowfall it receives. It is located at a distance of 290 km from Delhi. Moreover, it is blessed with a backdrop of the Shivalik and Doon Valley. 

Further, the height of this place, i.e., 7000m above sea level, ensures a chilly climate and a clear view of the Himalayan ranges. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 10,000 to ₹ 12,000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Trekking, Rock Climbing, Rafting, Paragliding, Boating, Roller Skating, Mountain Biking 
• Top Tourist Attractions: Gun Hill, Kempty Falls, Lal Tibba, Lake Mist, Camel’s Back Road, Mussoorie Mall Road, Dalai Hills, Landour

16. Jodhpur

Jodhpur, also known as the ‘Blue City’ of Rajasthan, steals the show with its impressive Mehrangarh Fort. It is the second-largest city of the state and the former capital of Marwar. People come here from different parts to attend the Rajasthan International Folk Festival held in October. 

What more? Here everything is blue in colour, i.e., houses, walls, temples, etc.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 9,500 to ₹ 11,000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Camel Safari, Exploring Forts, Zip Lining, Taking a Walking Tour to Ghantagarh, Rappelling, Tasting Authentic Cuisine
• Top Tourist Attractions: Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Toorji Ka Jhalra, Madore Garden, Umaid Bhawan Palace

17. Shillong

Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, derives its name from the idol Lei Shillong worshipped by the locals at Shillong Peak. This town is called the ‘Scotland of the East’ and stands tall at 1496m above sea level. Winters is the best time to visit this place when the weather is chilly, and you get to explore crystal clear lakes, enticing mountain peaks, and beautiful golf courses. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 4 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 5,000 to ₹ 9000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Water Rappelling, Boating, Horse Riding, Trekking, Camping, Snorkelling, Cliff Jumping 
• Top Tourist Attractions: Elephant Falls, Umiam Lake, Shillong Peak, Don Bosco Museum, Laitlum Canyons, Police Bazar

18. Varanasi

Varanasi is one of India's oldest living cities and spiritual capital. It lies along the western banks of the Ganges and sprawls across the labyrinth of narrow Galis. Devotees come here yearly to hop the different sacred ghats, chant religious hymns and detoxify souls in ashrams. 

In addition, the town also arranges religious ceremonies that you can attend. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 5,800 to ₹ 8,000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Attend Ganga Aarti, Riding Morning Boat, Take a Holy Bath in the Ganges, Savour the Local Food, Go for Sightseeing
• Top Tourist Attractions: Dashashwamedh Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Assi Ghat, Vishwanath Gali, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

19. Nashik

Nashik, the holy Hindu city, is also a paradise for wine lovers. This city is situated in the state of Maharashtra and snuggled along the banks of river Godavari. Another highlight that attracts tourists is it hosts a Kumbh Mela every 12 years. 

What more? The city houses multiple temples dedicated to Hindu Mythology in which Lakshman cut the nose of Suparnakha for enticing Lord Rama. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 6,000 to ₹ 8000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Tasting Wine, Exploring Forts, Offering Prayers at Temples, Water Rafting, Trekking, Attending Food Festivals
• Top Tourist Attractions: Sula Vineyards, Panchvati, Dudhsagar Falls, Nasik Caves, Trimbakeshwar, Saptashrungi

20. Pondicherry

If you want to get a feel of the French colony in India, visit Pondicherry which was earlier called Puducherry). It records a pleasant temperature during December and offers a dreamy escape by mixing the beauties of Indian sensibilities and French architecture. The streets are dotted with bougainvillea-laden walls, cosy cafes and chic boutiques. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 12,000 to ₹ 15,000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Boating, Jet Skiing, Scuba Diving, Birdwatching, Heritage Walking, Kayaking, Shopping
• Top Tourist Attractions: Paradise Beach, Seaside Promenade, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Rock Beach, Chunnambar Boat House, Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple

21. Ooty

Encircled by the beautiful Nilgiris, Ooty is another best winter spots in India. This surreal hill station is a part of Southern India and is adorned by a thick forest of Eucalyptus, pine and coniferous trees. Another highlight of this town is it houses many remnants of the colonial period, such as St. Stephen’s Church. 

Lastly, it has the steepest track in Asia, running through the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 9,000 to ₹ 10,000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Trekking, Shopping, Riding Train, Exploring Botanical Garden, Sightseeing, Strolling Beside the Lake
• Top Tourist Attractions: Dolphin’s Nose, Ooty Rose Garden, Ooty Botanical Garden, Emerald Lake, Ooty Lake, Nilgiri Mountain Railway

22. Coorg

Nestled in the Western Ghats Coorg is another surreal hill station of Karnataka. Here tourists can find the perfect amalgamation of majestic waterfalls, coffee plantations, and peaceful surroundings. One famous thing about this place is the Kodavas. It is a local clan specialising in martial arts and provides great hospitality. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 12,000 to ₹ 18,000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Trekking, Camping, ATV Bike Adventuring, Visiting Falls, Staying at Homestays
• Top Tourist Attractions: Raja’s Seat, Abbey Falls, Tadiandamol Peak, Iruppu Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, Namdroling Monastery

23. Munnar

Munnar, called Kashmir of the South, is a hill station in Kerala. It stands high at 1600m above sea level and is famous for being home to the rare flower Neelakurinji. The unique thing about this flower is it blooms once every 12 years. 

Also, here you will find a wide variety of spices, including clove, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, coffee, nutmeg, etc. 

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹ 7,500 to ₹ 9000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Include Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Photographing, Trekking, Bathing Elephants, Fishing, Sightseeing, Rappelling, Night Mountain Driving, Camping
• Top Tourist Attractions: Atukkad Waterfalls, Mattupetty Dam, Pothamedu View Point, KDHP Museum, Rose Garden Munnar

These are only a few of the best places to visit in winter in India; there are many more that you can explore. Every header here contains what these places are famous for, how to reach them, the average cost you can expect to spend and more. So, consider this travel guide and plan accordingly to embark on the perfect trip this winter.