Winter in India (November to February) is nothing short of magical. While the northern plains shiver under dense fog, the Himalayas dazzle with fresh snow, Rajasthan glows in golden sunlight, and the southern coasts remain pleasantly warm. Whether you’re chasing snowfalls, looking for sunny deserts, or planning a cozy hill-station getaway, India has it all.
Here’s our handpicked list of the 10 best winter destinations in India for the 2025–26 season:
1. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
The ultimate winter wonderland! World-famous for its powdery snow, Asia’s highest gondola ride, and some of the best skiing slopes in Asia. December–February is peak snow season.
2. Manali & Solang Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Snow-capped peaks, adventure sports, and the charming old Manali vibe. Rohtang Pass reopens for snow activities in winter with special permits.
3. Auli, Uttarakhand
India’s premier ski destination with stunning views of Nanda Devi. The slopes are perfect from January to March, and the cable car ride from Joshimath is breathtaking.
4. Shimla & Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
The Queen of Hills looks straight out of a Christmas postcard when blanketed in snow. Ice-skating in Shimla (if the rink freezes naturally) is a rare delight.
5. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Golden sunrises, camel safaris, and starry desert nights without the scorching heat. Winter (Oct–March) is the only comfortable time to enjoy the Thar Desert.
6. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Best tiger sightings happen in winter because of less vegetation and animals congregating near water bodies. Pair it with Jaipur for the perfect royal Rajasthan trip.
7. Goa
Sunny beaches, Christmas–New Year parties, and pleasant weather (22–30°C). North Goa for nightlife, South Goa for serene vibes.
8. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Toy train rides through mist, tea garden walks, and panoramic views of Kanchenjunga glowing pink in the winter sunrise.
9. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Snow-laden monasteries, crystal-clear Pangong Tso-like lakes (Madhuri Lake), and the magical Sela Pass. You’ll need an Inner Line Permit, but it’s absolutely worth it.
10. Munnar & Vagamon, Kerala
While North India freezes, Kerala’s hill stations offer misty mornings, tea plantations, and temperatures between 10–25°C — perfect for couples and nature lovers.
Bonus Warm Winter Getaways
- Andaman Islands — crystal-clear waters and 25–30°C
- Kutch Rann Utsav (Gujarat) — full moon nights in the white desert (Dec–Feb)
Ready to Plan Your Perfect Winter Vacation?
From luxury ski resorts in Gulmarg to desert camping under the stars in Jaisalmer, let the experts craft your dream itinerary.
✨ Book your customized winter holiday package now with Vardhman Vacations — one of India’s most trusted tour operators with 35+ years of experience.
👉 Visit: https://www.vardhmanvacations.com or call +91-9811175768 for exclusive winter deals & snow-guaranteed itineraries!
Which of these destinations are you adding to your 2025–26 winter bucket list? Drop a comment below and let us know! ❄️🏔️🏜️
Share this with your travel buddies and start planning the best winter of your life! ❤️
This is a guest article curated for winter travel inspiration. For bookings and inquiries, contact Vardhman Vacations.
