Winter is here, and every weekend might seem to be perfect to head out for a short trip and tick all the places off your bucket list. Your list must be endless, but do not miss out any opportunity to plan a trip during this winters. India has a plethora of options-snow laden mountain peaks, tropical beaches, vast plains, warm deserts, adventure, that people have been delaying due to scorching hot temperature and humidity.
This is the time to explore and enjoy Incredible India!
1. Kerala: God’s Own Country
As the monsoon departs, the natural splendor of Kerala reaches its peak. The Western Ghats and the backwaters add to Kerala’s unique charm and make it the destination for one of the best winter holidays in India. If you are a nature lover, Kerala will never disappoint you as it has the best National Parks and Bird Sanctuaries. Must visit: The lion-tailed macaque at Silent Valley National Park, tigers, and elephants in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and variety of birds at the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
Kerala has a plethora of options to offers its visitors- Kovalam and Varkala beaches, Alleppey backwaters, Munnar tea plantations, and Kalady spas and Ayurveda.
2. Pondicherry: The French Colony of India
Pondicherry, the French Capital of India, is best known for its serenity and scenic charm. The city’s urban architecture depicts the French style and attracts people all over the world. The weather of Pondicherry in December is pleasant, making it one of the best places to celebrate New Year. This is a peak tourist season for Pondicherry, so make your bookings in advance.
Tourist attraction: Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Museums.
3. Rajasthan : Land of Palaces
Rajasthan is one place that is best to visit and enjoy during the winters as it offers amazing brew of royalty, culture, tradition, colours, and history. You can get closer to the Indian history by visiting awe-inspiring palaces, mighty fortresses, traditional art and culture, and local cuisine. With ample attractions, exotic places flaunting beautiful colours in winter, it’s a luxury to explore Rajasthan. If you haven’t visited Rajasthan yet, plan this winter for sure!
Tourist Places: Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer, Pushkar Fair, Pushkar, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Ranthambhore, Kumbhalgarh, and many more…
4. Auli, Uttarakhand-Skiing Capital of India
Are you interested to learn skiing at one of the top places? Well, then you have to add Auli to your list to explore in December. It is the best time to visit Auli and to learn this thrilling adventure sport. And if skiing is your thing, do not miss the National Championship of Skiing held in January at Auli.
Other than skiing, Auli offers you a breath-taking panoramic view of the Neelkant, Mana Parbat, and Nanda Devi hills which will make your toes freeze, especially at the time of Christmas.
5. Diu Beach Festival
The virgin beaches of Diu are so magnificent in December that you have to see it to believe it. Diu has a unique festival in December which can add more excitement to your trip. Asia’s longest beach festival is held in Nagoa beach, Diu, popularly known as “Festa De Diu”. The fest is really amazing and if you are a party lover you must visit this place in New Year. You will get the best music and the crowd. Come and get pampered!
6. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat: The white desert
November-February is the best time to explore the white desert to see the salt turn blue under the moonlit sky. A stay at a tent in outskirts of Dhordo village would be a delightful experience. Kutch becomes alive during December with The Kutch Festival. This is the only festival that extends for two long months. You must visit Rann Utsav for an everlasting experience.
7. Shimla : For the romantic couple
There is nothing like spending a romantic vacation with your special one in the midst of snow. Shimla is a classic winter holiday destination in India. It is considered to be one of the hottest destinations for honeymooners in the winter season. You could also enjoy a few of adventure activities like paragliding and skiing.
8. Goa : The Party Capital of India
Looking for a perfect tan? Winters is the perfect time! The sun shines pleasantly and the cool breeze enhances the entire experience.
The place becomes alive during the winter months with all-night parties and an amazing crowd. The atmosphere becomes electric especially during the time of New Year and Christmas. If you are planning for Goa this New Tear, better make bookings in advance to get the best plan.
9. Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep is a group of 39 small islands and you can expect an ideal island temperature. There are secluded beaches and beautiful marine life to explore. If you seriously want to have a good sub-n bath during winters, you should consider Lakshadweep as your winter holiday destination.
10. Rishikesh: The Yoga Capital of the World
This place has been one of India’s holiest and most spiritual centers for thousands of years. Rishikesh is a magical city on the blue banks of River Ganga under the gaze of mystical Himalayas. It’s a religious town, famed for white-water rafting and trekking. December is the best time for these activities and the weather is really pleasant if you are a winter baby.
Laxman Jhula (hanging bridge above the River Ganga is one of the major tourist attractions other than temples and ashrams.
With a string of holidays and a list of fairs and festivals, winters in India are marked by vacations to plan your year around–a beach holiday, a romantic vacation, a trip filled with adventure activities or a trip to just relax and enjoy the scenic beauty.
So, what are your plans for this New Year? Where are you heading to ?
Also Read : 10 Places to visit during Monsoon in India
