13 Breathtaking Indian Destinations for Winter Retreats Every Year

Winter makes you happy, doesn't it? Why not? It is a season we all enjoy. The winter is the only season when we can travel without worrying about scorching summer temperatures and wet, rainy weather. If you too are planning to explore top Indian destinations, read this blog to learn about the 13 places you can visit in the winter with your family, friends, and loved ones. Are you ready to embark on this exciting adventure? Here we go!

 1. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir:

• A hill station located in the Kashmir Valley
• Known for its pristine snow-covered landscapes and excellent skiing opportunities
• The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the world's highest cable cars.
• Enjoy activities like snowboarding, trekking, and snowball fights.

 How to Reach: By Air: Srinagar Airport (approximately 50 km). By Road: taxi or bus from Srinagar (approximately 50 km). By Train: The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi (approximately 290 km). Top Tourist Attractions:

• Gulmarg Gondola
• Apharwat Peak
• Alpather Lake
• Golf Course

 2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh:

• A popular hill station nestled in the Himalayas
• Offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys.
• Ideal for adventure enthusiasts with options for skiing, paragliding, and snow trekking.
• Rohtang Pass is a must-visit for its snowy vistas.
• Quaint markets, hot springs, and local cuisine add to the charm.

 How to Reach:

By Air: Bhuntar Airport (approximately 50 km). By Road: Delhi to Manali via NH3 (approximately 540 km). By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar (approximately 165 km). Top Tourist Attractions:

• Rohtang Pass
• Solang Valley
• Hadimba Temple
• Manu Temple

 3. Auli, Uttarakhand:

• Known for its pristine slopes and skiing facilities
• Offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.
• The Auli Artificial Lake is perfect for ice skating.
• Peaceful and less crowded compared to other destinations.

How to Reach:

By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approximately 180 km). By Road: Rishikesh to Auli via Joshimath (approximately 260 km). By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh (approximately 250 km). Top Tourist Attractions:

• Auli Ski Resort
• Gurso Bugyal
• Kwani Bugyal
• Chenab Lake

 4. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh:

• A historic hill station with colonial architecture.
• Witness the town covered in a blanket of snow during the winter.
• Enjoy ice skating on the circular ice rink.
• Visit the famous Ridge and Mall Road for shopping.
• Sip on hot coffee and relish local Himachali cuisine.

 How to Reach:

By Air: Chandigarh Airport (approximately 113 km). By Road: Delhi to Shimla via NH44 (approximately 350 km). By Train: Kalka Railway Station (approximately 90 km). Top Tourist Attractions:

• Mall Road
• The Ridge
• Jakhoo Temple
• Kufri 

5. Darjeeling, West Bengal:

• A picturesque hill station in the eastern Himalayas
• Known for its tea gardens, which look stunning in winter,
• Visit Tiger Hill to witness the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range.
• The Batasia Loop is a famous attraction for its scenic beauty.
• Explore local markets for woolen clothes and handicrafts.

 Also read: Top 10 Destinations in India Where Solo Female Travelers can Easily Travel

How to Reach:

By Air: Bagdogra Airport (approximately 70 km). By Road: Siliguri to Darjeeling via NH110 (approximately 70 km). By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (approximately 62 km). Top Tourist Attractions:

• Tiger Hill
• Batasia Loop
• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway 

6. Munnar, Kerala:

• Munnar is a fascinating place in Kerala, known for its lush green tea gardens.
• In winter, the weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for enjoying scenic landscapes.
• You can go for nature walks, visit tea plantations, and spot wildlife at Eravikulam National Park.
• Don't miss sipping on hot tea while taking in the misty views.

 How to Reach:

By Air: Cochin International Airport (approximately 110 km). By Road: Cochin to Munnar via NH85 (approximately 130 km). By Train: The nearest railway station is Aluva (approximately 120 km). Top Tourist Attractions:

• Tea Gardens
• Eravikulam National Park
• Mattupetty Dam
• Anamudi Peak

 7. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat:

• The Rann of Kutch is a vast white salt desert in Gujarat, famous for the Rann Utsav, a cultural festival.
• Winter is the best time to visit, as the desert is cool and you can enjoy folk music, dance, and traditional crafts.
• Witness the moonlight on the salt desert for a magical experience.

 How to reach:

By Air: Bhuj Airport (approximately 70 km). By Road: Bhuj to Rann of Kutch (approximately 80 km). By Train: The nearest railway station is Bhuj (approximately 60 km). Top Tourist Attractions:

• White Desert
• Kutch Museum
• Kala Dungar
• Mandvi Beach

 8. Jaipur, Rajasthan:

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• Jaipur, the Pink City, is a historical treasure trove with palaces, forts, and vibrant markets.
• Winter offers pleasant weather for exploring attractions like Amer Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal.
• Don't forget to savor local Rajasthani cuisine and shop for colorful textiles and handicrafts.

 How to Reach:

By Air: Jaipur Airport By Road: Delhi to Jaipur via NH48 (approximately 280 km). By Train: Jaipur Railway Station

Top Tourist Attractions:

• Amer Fort
• City Palace
• Hawa Mahal
• Jantar Mantar

Didn’t check it out: Must-Visit Places in India Before 40 and Travel Tips

9. Ooty, Tamil Nadu:

• Ooty is a charming hill station in the Nilgiri Mountains, offering a peaceful escape in winter.
• Enjoy boat rides on the Ooty Lake, visit the Botanical Gardens, and take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
• The cool climate and misty landscapes make it a romantic destination.

 How to Reach:

By Air: Coimbatore Airport (approximately 88 km). By Road: Coimbatore to Ooty via NH181 (approximately 90 km). By Train: Mettupalayam Railway Station (approximately 47 km). Top Tourist Attractions:

• Ooty Lake
• Botanical Gardens
• Doddabetta Peak
• Nilgiri Mountain Railway

 10. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra:

• Mahabaleshwar is a serene hill station known for its strawberry farms and lush greenery.
• Winter brings a pleasant chill, making it perfect for walks in the woods, horseback riding, and enjoying panoramic views from viewpoints.
• Relish fresh strawberries and local Maharashtrian snacks.

How to Reach:

By Air: Pune Airport (approx. 120 km). By Road: Pune to Mahabaleshwar via NH48 (approximately 120 km). By Train: The nearest railway station is Satara (approximately 54 km).

Top Tourist Attractions:

• Venna Lake
• Pratapgarh Fort
• Lingmala Waterfall
• Mapro Garden

11. Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir:

• Covered in a blanket of snow during the winter, creating a picturesque landscape.
• Ideal for snow-related activities like skiing and snowboarding.
• Enjoy a tranquil stroll along the Lidder River as snow-capped mountains surround you.
• Explore the local market for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and delicious food.

How to reach:

By Air: Srinagar Airport (approximately 90 km). By Road: Srinagar to Pahalgam via NH44 (approximately 90 km). By Train: The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi (approximately 255 km). Top Tourist Attractions:

• Betaab Valley
• Aru Valley
• Lidder River
• Chandanwari

12. Nainital, Uttarakhand:

• Situated around a serene lake
• Enjoy boat rides on the Naini Lake while surrounded by snow-covered hills.
• Visit the Naina Devi Temple for spiritual solace and panoramic views.
• Don't miss the snowfall, making Nainital a winter wonderland.

How to Reach:

By Air: Pantnagar Airport (approximately 65 km). By Road: Kathgodam to Nainital (approximately 35 km). By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station (approximately 35 km).

Top Tourist Attractions:

• Naini Lake
• Naina Devi Temple
• Snow View Point
• Tiffin Top

13. Andaman and Nicobar Islands:

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• A tropical paradise, perfect for escaping the winter chill.
• Explore pristine beaches like Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island.
• Snorkel or scuba dive to discover the rich marine life and coral reefs.
• Experience the unique blend of Indian and Southeast Asian cultures.

How to Reach:

By Air: Port Blair Airport. By Road: local transport within the islands. By Sea: Ships are available from Chennai, Kolkata, and Vizag.

Top Tourist Attractions:

• Radhanagar Beach
• Cellular Jail
• Ross Island
• Havelock Island

 Please visit these places once in your life. Each one of them is indeed beautiful.