Winter Travel Magic: Discover Cozy Getaways to Refresh Your Soul. Read on for top destinations that offer comfort and peace
As the shaadi season wraps up and the year-end holidays loom large, many Indians
are itching for a break. Forget the summer heat; winter travel in India offers a unique charm, a chance to explore breathtaking landscapes under crisp blue skies.
Plus, who can resist snuggling up with a steaming cup of chai in a picturesque setting? Getting away from the city hustle during winter gives you a much-needed mental refresh.
It's a time to reconnect with yourself, make memories with your loved ones, and come back feeling rejuvenated for the new year. This winter, swap your usual routine for an unforgettable adventure to a destination that spells comfort and peace.
Shimla: Winter Wonderland with Snow, Skating, and Toy Train Joy
Shimla, fondly called the "Queen of Hills," remains a perennial favourite for a reason. Imagine waking up to snow-dusted rooftops, the air filled with the scent of pine trees.
The iconic Mall Road comes alive with festive cheer during winter, and skating rinks offer a fun activity for the whole family. For those seeking adventure, the nearby Kufri is perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
Don't forget to take a ride on the historic Kalka-Shimla toy train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which winds its way through stunning valleys and tunnels. The toy train journey itself is an experience, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan landscape.
Remember to pack your warmest woollens, as temperatures can dip quite low. Carry a good sunscreen too, as the winter sun can be deceptively strong at that altitude.
Explore Shimla's colonial charm, natural beauty, and memorable experiences
Shimla offers a delightful blend of colonial charm and natural beauty. Walk along the Mall Road and explore the shops selling local handicrafts and warm clothing. Visit the Viceregal Lodge, a majestic structure that once served as the summer residence of the British viceroy.
For a spiritual experience, visit the Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, which offers panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate at a cafe overlooking the snow-capped mountains.
Evenings in Shimla are best spent around a bonfire, sharing stories with loved ones, under a sky full of stars. If you are lucky, you may even witness a fresh snowfall, turning the entire town into a winter wonderland. This creates a memory that you will cherish for a lifetime.
Shimla offers diverse accommodations and easy transport options for a memorable stay
For accommodation, Shimla offers a range of options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Many heritage hotels retain their old-world charm, offering a unique and unforgettable stay. Consider staying slightly outside the main town for more peace and quiet.
The journey to Shimla is quite easy and you won't have to take too many breaks. There are many direct flights, trains and buses that take you to shimla, and once you are in Shimla, getting around is easy as the local transport is easily available.
During winter, the roads leading to Shimla can be snowy, so be sure to check for road closures before you travel. Hiring a local driver is always a good idea, as they are experienced in navigating the tricky mountain roads.
Escape winter, head to Kerala's backwaters for serene tranquility
If snow is not your thing, head south to Kerala and explore the serene backwaters. Imagine gliding along calm waters in a houseboat, surrounded by lush greenery. The winter months in Kerala offer pleasant weather, making it perfect for exploring the backwaters.
Alleppey (Alappuzha) is the most popular destination, but other options include Kumarakom and Kollam. This is the destination to be if you want to see peaceful skies and experience calm and soothing environment.
Backwaters are such a blessing to the region and helps travellers have a peaceful and relaxing break. Experiencing the beauty of nature is something that helps you gain calmness.
Life in the backwaters: picturesque views, local life, houseboat stays, Ayurveda, and welcoming locals
Life in the backwaters revolves around the water; you'll see local fishermen casting their nets, villagers going about their daily routines, and children playing by the shore. A houseboat stay is an unforgettable experience, with meals prepared fresh on board using locally sourced ingredients.
Enjoy the peace and quiet as you watch the sunset over the backwaters, painting the sky in vibrant colours. You may also want to try Ayurvedic treatments, which are readily available in Kerala.
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that uses natural therapies to promote health and well-being. Getting healthy, natural diet is so good in this region that you would want to live here forever.
The people around are so helpful and cooperative, they are always so keen on helping travellers.
Explore Kerala beyond houseboats - homestays, resorts, backwater life, cuisine, and culture
Apart from houseboats, Kerala offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly homestays to luxury resorts. The backwaters are easily accessible from major cities in Kerala, with regular bus and train services.
For a truly immersive experience, consider taking a canoe ride through the narrow canals. This will give you a glimpse into the lives of the people who live along the backwaters. You can also visit local villages and learn about their culture and traditions.
Do try the delicious Kerala cuisine, which is known for its use of spices and coconut milk. The delicious curries and fresh seafood are an absolute treat for the taste buds. And don’t forget to try the traditional Kerala Sadhya, a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf.
Explore Jodhpur, the "Blue City" of Rajasthan, known for forts, palaces, and tranquil vibes
For a dose of history and culture, consider visiting Jodhpur, the "Blue City" of Rajasthan. The forts and palaces stand tall against the backdrop of the Thar Desert. The winter months offer pleasant weather for exploring this beautiful city.
The majestic Mehrangarh Fort, perched atop a hill, is a must-visit. Explore the intricate carvings and soak in the panoramic views of the city. The Umaid Bhawan Palace, a stunning blend of Indian and European architecture, is another highlight.
This place is like magic and gives you the best vibes ever. Just wandering here and there and seeing the blue coloured houses gives an amazing peace to mind.
Explore Jodhpur's blue city, desert magic, and savory cuisine
Wander through the narrow streets of the old city, painted in shades of blue. Visit the clock tower and the Sardar Market, a bustling marketplace where you can find everything from spices to handicrafts. Take a camel safari into the Thar Desert and experience the magic of the desert landscape.
Witness a mesmerizing sunset over the dunes, a truly unforgettable experience. Jodhpur is also known for its delicious cuisine. Be sure to try the local delicacies, such as Mirchi Bada, a spicy chili fritter, and Makhaniya Lassi, a creamy yogurt drink.
You can visit the zoo as well to see different types of animals.
Explore Jodhpur's heritage hotels, vibrant culture, and rich history
Jodhpur offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious heritage hotels. Many of the heritage hotels are housed in the converted palaces and mansions, offering a glimpse into the royal past. The city is well-connected to major cities in India.
Getting around Jodhpur is easy with auto-rickshaws and taxis readily available. Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth exploration of the city's history and culture. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs.
Jodhpur is a vibrant and colourful city that will captivate your senses and leave you with lasting memories.
Winter in Goa is ideal for a peaceful beach getaway
While Goa is often associated with summer, winter is actually a fantastic time to visit. The weather is pleasant, the crowds are thinner, and the prices are lower. Swap your woollens for swimwear and hit the beaches!
Goa offers a diverse range of beaches, from the bustling Calangute and Baga to the serene Palolem and Agonda. The sea is so peaceful that you would stay there longer to keep seeing it. The beach sides are so good here that you would definitely want to buy a beach house for yourself.
People enjoy a lot here in the night and day with no disturbance.
Explore sun, sea, history, culture, and nightlife in beautiful Goa
Spend your days sunbathing, swimming, or trying out water sports. Explore the historic forts and churches of Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the relics of St. Francis Xavier.
For a taste of Goan culture, visit the Mapusa Friday Market, where you can find everything from spices to clothing. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Goa, with its numerous beach shacks and clubs. Partying will make you feel so refreshed that you can easily give a fresh start to your life.
Eating, relaxing also makes you feel so calm. Goa is such a beautiful place, you won't regret coming here.
Goa offers diverse accommodations, near beaches, with easy transport
Goa offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Many of the guesthouses are located near the beaches, making it easy to access the sand and surf.
Goa is well-connected to major cities in India and local transport also makes it extremely easy to navigate through places. Renting a scooter is a popular way to get around Goa which travellers adore so much.
A perfect escape from the daily work cycle, Goa gives you all the positive and calm vibes which you will cherish forever.
Auli in Uttarakhand: winter wonderland for skiing enthusiasts
For the adventurous souls, Auli in Uttarakhand is a winter wonderland. This hill station is renowned for its snowy slopes and offers excellent skiing opportunities. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier, Auli has something to offer.
The views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks are simply breathtaking; the serene ambience will take you away to another dimension. All you feel in the snowy mountains is the cold breeze and the soft sunshine and gives internal peace to travellers.
Cable car ride with skiing and snow play in scenic mountains
Take a ride on the cable car, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Visit the Gurso Bugyal, a beautiful meadow covered in snow during winter. Enjoy the thrill of skiing down the slopes or try snowboarding.
If you are not into skiing, you can simply enjoy the snow and build a snowman!. The snow is so soft and white, you can play with for hours, and wont feel bored at all. Families make memories here which they cherish for lifetime.
Auli offers diverse accommodations, skiing courses, unique winter experience
Auli offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. The best way to reach Auli is by road from Dehradun. Remember to pack your warmest woollens, as temperatures can dip significantly below zero.
Consider taking a skiing course to get the most out of your trip. Auli is a magical destination that offers a unique and unforgettable winter experience.
Darjeeling offers stunning views and serene beauty in winter
Known for its sprawling tea gardens and views of the Kanchenjunga, Darjeeling is a must-visit winter destination. The weather is cool and crisp, and the skies are usually clear, offering stunning views of the snow-capped peaks.
Visit the Tiger Hill viewpoint to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. The view from the Tiger Hill is surreal. You can walk along and explore the beauty of nature and greenery all around. You get to experience the cold and calm breeze along with the beautiful sunrise.
Explore Darjeeling on the Toy Train, visit Ghoom Monastery, tea gardens, and experience peace
Take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train," a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Ghoom Monastery, one of the oldest Tibetan monasteries in Darjeeling. Explore the tea gardens and learn about the process of tea making.
Sample a cup of Darjeeling tea, known for its delicate flavour and aroma. There is so much greenery around that makes you forget all your worries. The local people are so nice and friendly. You get to experience so much peace here that you would want to live here forever.
Darjeeling offers diverse accommodations and scenic beauty
Darjeeling offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. The town is well-connected to major cities in India, and getting around is easy with taxis and jeeps. Remember to pack warm clothing, as temperatures can be quite low, especially at night.
Darjeeling is a charming hill station that offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious tea.
