Best winter tourist destinations in India - #1 Guide in 2025

1. Shimla – The Queen of Hills

Once the summer capital of British India, Shimla transforms into a snowy paradise during winter. The colonial charm of its buildings, combined with snow-clad pine forests and cosy cafes, makes it one of the best places to visit in India in winter. Walk along the Mall Road with a cup of hot chocolate, or take the scenic toy train ride from Kalka to Shimla — every corner feels like a postcard.

Don’t Miss: The Ridge, Jakhoo Temple, and Kufri snow adventures.
Ideal For: Families, couples, and first-time snow lovers

2. Manali – Winter Wonderland of Himachal Pradesh

Nestled in the Beas Valley, Manali is where the magic of winter comes alive. Powdery snow, majestic peaks, and cosy wooden chalets make it one of the most popular winter destinations in India. Adventure seekers can try skiing, snowboarding, and even ziplining over snow fields. For those who prefer calm, old Manali’s cafes and hot springs offer a soothing escape from the chill.

Don’t Miss: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass (if open), Vashisht Hot Springs.
Ideal For: Adventure seekers, honeymooners, and nature enthusiasts

3. Gulmarg – India’s Skiing Capital

When it comes to winter tourist destinations in India, Gulmarg tops the list for snow lovers. Blanketed in thick snow, this Kashmiri gem is a haven for skiing, snowboarding, and gondola rides. The panoramic view from the Apharwat Peak is breathtaking, and the silence of the meadows under snow feels almost surreal. Whether you’re gliding down slopes or simply admiring the Himalayan grandeur, Gulmarg offers a truly world-class winter experience.

Don’t Miss: Gulmarg Gondola, Apharwat Peak, St. Mary’s Church
Ideal For: Skiers, honeymooners, and photographers

4. Auli – India’s Hidden Ski Paradise

Perched high in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Auli is a dream come true for snow lovers. Known for its powdery slopes and panoramic views of Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks, it’s one of the best places to visit in India in winter for skiing and mountain adventures. The air is crisp, the sky is an endless blue, and the snowy terrain glows under the winter sun. Even if you’re not skiing, the cable car ride from Joshimath offers views you’ll never forget.

Don’t Miss: Skiing on Auli slopes, Auli Ropeway, Gurso Bugyal trek.
Ideal For: Adventure lovers, couples, and mountain photographers

5. Leh–Ladakh – The Frozen Desert Adventure

For those craving raw, untouched beauty, Ladakh in winter is otherworldly. The rugged mountains turn into an icy expanse, monasteries gleam under the snow, and frozen lakes like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri reflect crystal skies. The highlight? The legendary Chadar Trek on the frozen Zanskar River — an experience unlike any other. Though extreme, the serenity and silence of Ladakh in winter make it a truly spiritual journey.

Don’t Miss: Chadar Trek, Thiksey Monastery, Pangong Tso
Ideal For: Experienced trekkers, photographers, and offbeat explorers

6. Rann of Kutch – White Desert Under Winter Skies

In Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch, winter transforms the salt desert into a dazzling white canvas under moonlight. The Rann Utsav, held during this season, celebrates local culture, music, and crafts against this surreal backdrop. From camel rides across the salt plains to starlit nights in tented camps, it’s a sensory experience like no other. The pleasant weather makes it one of the most unique places to visit in India in winter, blending culture, art, and nature beautifully.

Don’t Miss: Rann Utsav, Kalo Dungar, Mandvi Beach
Ideal For: Culture enthusiasts, photographers, and families

7. Goa – Sun, Sand & Festivities

While much of India bundles up for winter, Goa is basking in golden sunshine. The cool breeze, clear skies, and festive energy make it one of the best places to visit in India in winter. From beach parties and night markets to Christmas celebrations and the famous Sunburn Festival, the season here is pure joy. Whether you prefer lively beaches like Baga or quiet coves in South Goa, winter brings out Goa’s most vibrant spirit.

Don’t Miss: Baga & Palolem beaches, Fort Aguada, spice plantations, winter festivals.
Ideal For: Beach lovers, party-goers, and couples

8. Kerala – God’s Own Winter Retreat

In Kerala, winter paints everything in lush green. The backwaters are calm, the hills of Munnar are misty, and the beaches of Varkala and Kovalam glow under gentle sunshine. This is also the best time to enjoy Ayurvedic therapies, houseboat stays, and wildlife safaris in Periyar. The comfortable weather and scenic beauty make Kerala one of the most popular winter destinations in India — a paradise for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Don’t Miss: Alleppey backwaters, Munnar tea gardens, Periyar National Park.
Ideal For: Honeymooners, nature lovers, and wellness seekers

9. Udaipur – The Winter City of Lakes

When the desert air cools, Udaipur becomes a royal dreamscape. Its shimmering lakes, marble palaces, and sunset views from the City Palace make it one of the most romantic winter destinations in India. The mild climate is perfect for boat rides on Lake Pichola and exploring the city’s royal architecture without the harsh desert heat. Add the vibrant local bazaars and Rajasthani cuisine, and you have a destination that feels both regal and soulful.

Don’t Miss: City Palace, Lake Pichola boat ride, Bagore Ki Haveli cultural show
Ideal For: Couples, heritage lovers, and luxury travellers

10. Darjeeling – The Misty Crown of the East

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Darjeeling shines brightest in winter. The chill in the air carries the aroma of tea, the Kanchenjunga glows pink under dawn light, and the colonial charm lingers in every street. Ride the iconic Toy Train, sip steaming tea at a hillside café, or stroll along Mall Road with panoramic views — everything feels timeless here. The crisp weather and peaceful vibe make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in India in winter.

Don’t Miss: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Tiger Hill sunrise, Batasia Loop.
Ideal For: Families, photographers, and couples

11. Tawang – The Hidden Himalayan Treasure

Tucked away in Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is where spirituality meets serenity. During winter, snow blankets the town, and the Tawang Monastery, one of the largest in India, stands majestically amid white peaks. Frozen lakes like Madhuri Lake and winding mountain roads make the journey adventurous and rewarding. With fewer tourists and breathtaking views, Tawang offers an authentic offbeat winter escape — perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Don’t Miss: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Madhuri Lake
Ideal For: Offbeat travellers, peace seekers, and mountain lovers

12. Andaman Islands – Tropical Bliss in Winter

When the mainland chills, the Andaman Islands stay sunlit and serene. Crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and white-sand beaches make this archipelago one of the best winter destinations in India for a warm coastal getaway. From scuba diving at Havelock Island to watching sunsets at Chidiya Tapu, every experience feels like stepping into a postcard. The mild winter weather makes it ideal for beach walks, water sports, and unwinding amid nature.

Don’t Miss: Radhanagar Beach, Cellular Jail Light & Sound Show, Scuba diving at Havelock.
Ideal For: Honeymooners, beach lovers, and adventure seekers

13. Jaipur – The Royal Winter Retreat of Rajasthan

When the harsh summer sun fades, Jaipur blooms in winter hues of gold and rose. The “Pink City” becomes even more inviting — stroll through the majestic Amber Fort, admire Hawa Mahal’s lattice windows glowing in the morning light, and lose yourself in the bazaars overflowing with crafts and colours. Winter evenings here are perfect for rooftop dining with live Rajasthani music under starry skies.

Don’t Miss: City Palace, Nahargarh Fort sunset, Johari Bazaar, and Rajasthani thali at Chokhi Dhani.
Best For: Culture seekers and first-time India travellers.

14. Jaisalmer – The Golden Dunes of Winter Magic

In the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer turns magical when winter sets in. The golden sandstone fort glows like a mirage at sunset, while the cool breeze makes camel safaris across the dunes truly blissful. Spend a night at a desert camp, watching folk dancers sway around a bonfire under an endless sky of stars — a winter memory that stays forever.

Don’t Miss: Jaisalmer Fort, Sam Sand Dunes, Patwon Ki Haveli, Desert Cultural Centre.
Best For: Adventure lovers and culture enthusiasts.

15. Coorg – The Scotland of India in a Winter Mist

Rolling coffee estates wrapped in morning mist, the scent of freshly roasted beans, and hills echoing with bird calls — that’s Coorg in winter. The temperature stays pleasantly cool, perfect for long drives through forested roads or lazy stays in cosy homestays. Winter also brings blooming coffee flowers and tranquil riverside walks.

Don’t Miss: Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Dubare Elephant Camp, and coffee tasting tours.
Best For: Nature lovers and couples.

16. Rishikesh – Winter Calm by the Ganges

Rishikesh is a soul-soothing winter escape — where mornings begin with yoga by the river, afternoons invite café-hopping along the Ganga ghats, and evenings light up with the glowing aarti at Triveni Ghat. The crisp winter air adds serenity to its spiritual aura, and for adventure seekers, it’s the perfect season for rafting and trekking in nearby hills.

Don’t Miss: Laxman Jhula, Beatles Ashram, Neer Garh Waterfall, and Ganga Aarti.
Best For: Spiritual travellers and solo explorers.

17. Ooty – The Southern Hill Gem in Winter Charm

Perched high in the Nilgiris, Ooty offers winter mornings veiled in mist and cosy evenings by the fireplace. The emerald lakes and rolling tea gardens look even more enchanting in the cool air. Whether you’re riding the Nilgiri Toy Train or strolling through the Botanical Gardens, Ooty feels like stepping into a living postcard.

Don’t Miss: Doddabetta Peak, Ooty Lake, Tea Factory Tour, and Coonoor day trip.
Best For: Families and honeymooners.