Chill Thrills: Embrace The Winters With These 12 Winter Vacation Destinations For The Modern Man

Planning a vacation with your loved ones this new year? Then we got you covered, discover some of the most beautiful places to visit in winter in India as you enter into the new year. Experience the delights of the best places to visit in January in India with your family and friends, whether it's the shine of the desert moon or the gleam of the seaside sun. We've compiled a list of the best places to visit in winter in India to embrace the winter vacation full of chill thrills.

The romantic ambience, the cold wind, the foggy surroundings and the vacation-like period offer the perfect opportunity to visit the best winter destinations in India as mentioned below.

1. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh

Situated on the banks of the Parvati River, Kasol is a charming little town. This is considered a playground for hikers, backpackers, and nature lovers alike, with its sensual natural splendour. Its area draws travellers from all over the world because it is regarded as one of the most beautiful places to go during winter in the world. The scenery transforms into a picturesque winter paradise in December.

2. Nainital, Uttarakhand

Considered the “Gem of Uttarakhand,” Nainital is a hill station endowed with an abundance of lakes and boundless natural beauty. The Naini Lake, the core of the hill station's popularity, inspired the name of the Nainital. You can shop here in the Tibetan Market, take pleasure in the mouth watering local cuisine, enjoy boat rides on the picturesque Naini Lake, and stroll the beautiful Mall Road. 

3. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Darjeeling, located in Eastern India, is a highly renowned hill station known for its cruising slopes and captivating sunrises. Its hills are covered with tea plantations and you can cherish winter with a cup of divine tea in hand. There are several activities to enjoy such as biking, hiking and picnics. Now, dust off your bags and get ready for your journey to Darjeeling! No other place will embrace you with such open arms.

4. Shillong, Meghalaya

The charming city of Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, seems to float on clouds. This hill station is well-known for both its unique customs and attractive sceneries. Winter spells make it one of the most-loved winter tourist places in India. There are numerous beautiful spots to visit like cascading waterfalls, sharp mountain peaks, enigmatic caves, and deep canyons. With the harbouring of many elegant pine trees, the hill station is a haven of both nature and care.

5. Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Mount Abu, Rajasthan's only hill station, is situated in the magnificent Aravalli Range. If you are planning to go to Mount Abu in your winter vacation, you can enjoy its postcard-worthy panoramic beauty and serene ambience. This must-see winter destination in India offers you magical jade surroundings and the refreshing cucumber air. The Dilwara Jain Temple, one of the most beautiful architectural structures in India, is also located here. 

6. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Known for its picturesque scenery and succulent red strawberries, Mahabaleshwar is amid the highlands of the Western Ghats range. This is considered Maharashtra's most renowned hill station which you can visit this winter season. The area becomes a gorgeous place worthy of fairy tales as winter approaches. Its atmosphere is even more magical by the wisps of mist that sway in the breeze. Beauty abounds in valleys, forests, waterfalls and lakes. If you are here then take pleasure in picking fruit, riding horses and boating. 

7. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

Thanks to its location away from popular tourist places like Manali and Shimla, Gulmarg boasts a rugged and breathtaking ambience. In the event of a blizzard, the attractively landscaped open area is skied down and the entire town is covered in snow. At the summit, in addition to experiencing classic adventure sports, there are breathtaking views in all directions. 

8. Auli, Uttarakhand

Auli is a stunning hill station that offers those who are hungry for adventure sports an amazing international skiing experience. Usually, this place is covered in a blanket of pristine white snow during the winter season. This makes it perfect for winter activities like - snowboarding, tobogganing, skiing and even sledging. In addition to that, you can even hop on to Asia's longest cable car and take in the stunning views of the Himalayan vistas.

9. Great Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

Why not take a trip to the desert of sparkling white salt known as The Great Rann of Kutch this December? Its natural features produce an enticing and bizarre appearance. Winter is when the Rann Festival kicks off with many campgrounds prepared for guests. There are so many breathtaking scenes to witness such as full moons that are crystal clear and molten sunsets. Travellers can even experience the wonderful beauty of the Rann from above by going on a hot air balloon flight. 

10. Kohima, Nagaland

Named after a wild flowering plant Kewhi, Kohima is located in North East India and its slow pace of life draws thousands of tourists looking to escape to a serene place. Its unique culture, which includes various tribes, rare artefacts, vibrant clothing, and clan motifs, is something that should be experienced once in a lifetime. The main attraction for tourists is the hornbill festival, which takes place during the winter and lasts for a weeklong celebration of cultural events, including a craft bazaar, floral galleria, motorsports, food stalls, film festivals and music.

11. Goa

The palm-fringed beaches of Goa are the first thing that springs to mind when someone mentions the word beach! It is, in fact, the most popular seaside destination in India. Goa is a gateway to history, culture, and spirituality, but it's much more than just a place to have fun in the sun. A medley of attractions includes colonial cathedrals, beautiful Portuguese homes, enchanting boutiques, and flea markets. The area comes alive in December with festivities. 

12. Munnar, Kerala

As far as the eye can see, emerald green tea plantations envelop the undulating hills of Munnar. This hill station, Kerala's piece of paradise, entices visitors with its spicy and fragrant landscape. You can explore its incomparable beauty and dazzling climate. 

Packing for a winter vacation can be challenging since you want to be warm and cosy but also wish to explore potentially chilly and snowy weather.

• You can pack durable pants, weather-resistant fleece jackets, and other winterwear in layers. The layer-wise packing can give you more space to carry for your winter vacations.
• You should wear your heavy shoes to keep your feet warm, especially for outdoor activities. If you want you can pack another pair of lightweight shoes for indoor use. 
• Don’t pack the heavier stuff to avoid carrying the bulky load. Instead, you can wear your winter coat to save space in your luggage. 

Pack your thermal wear for staying warm in winter vacation which is necessary if you want to enjoy it to the fullest.

In a nutshell, you may have a hold on the best places to visit in winter. Surely, all these winter tourist spots can enhance your level of excitement while exploring them. If you want to explore beauty then elevate your winter wardrobe to get the best picture with the natural beauty of these winter destinations in India. For your winter wear, visit XYXX Crew to buy different kinds of men’s wear this winter vacation. 

Q: What is the best time to plan a winter vacation in India?

A: The best time to plan a winter vacation in India is from December to early February. 

Q: Are there winter festivals or events in popular vacation spots?

A: Different winter festivals are organised in popular winter destinations in India like Hornbill Fest, Goa Carnival, Kutchh Rann Mahotsav, and more.  

Q: How can I plan a budget-friendly winter vacation in India?

A: You can choose affordable and nearby winter tourist places in India for a budget-friendly winter vacation. You can also read this blog to plan a budget-friendly trip.