Like the aureate dim in the dawning sky, the outside world has from time
immemorial been irresistibly attracted to India, the exotic land of
history, wilderness, spiritualism and naturalism. Timeless cities,
temples, ancient Hindu and Tibetan Buddhist Kingdoms reveal the
unrehearsed intimacy. With such natural and cultural diversities up for
grabs, your holiday to North India during the winter will excite you
footing up the North Indian hospitality, spicy cuisines, marveling
handicrafts and celestial hamlets. Traveling along the belt may include
your itinerary the bustling city of New Delhi and centering it the
Kumaon and Garhwal of Hills of ambrosial Uttarakhand or the Royal
Heritage of Rajasthan and the lofty niche of the Himachal or the
heavenly vales of Jammu and Kashmir. Here is a comprehensive list of
places in North India for a breathtaking winter vacation.
1. New Delhi
The capital city of India, New Delhi, with the fusion of age old
history and varied cultural diorama, is one of the bustling tourist
destinations in North India during the winter season. The city with its
quaint charm that is said to be dating back to the Pandava era is one of
the significant historical cities in India. The city is home to several
ancient monuments, forts and churches that delineate the chapters of
Indian history. Amongst them the Purana Quilla, Qutub Minar, Jantar Mantar, Red Fort, Jama Masjid and Humayun’s Tomb holds special tourists’ interest. The ruins of Tughlaquabad Fort, Lotus Temple and Lodhi Garden and its monuments are some other heritage attractions in New Delhi.
The India Gate, which is close to the Parliament and Rashtrapati
Bhavan, is yet another popular tourist attractions that stands as a
memorial to all the Indian soldiers who lost their lives during the
Indian Freedom Movement, Indo-Pak Wars and Sino-Indo Wars. Rajghat,
which is yet another memorial, holds a national significance and
attracts tourists from all over the world.
Being in the city you
can’t escape from the quaint charm of Chandni Chowk and the colonial
ambiance of Connaught Place. Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest and
congested areas of the city that is noted for its multiple arrays of
shops dealing in jewellery, antiques, garments and street food, ‘Parathe
Wali Gali’ is a must visit place when you are in Chandni Chowk. On the
other hand Connaught Place, which acts as a bridge between Old Delhi and
New Delhi, is a popular hangout in the city with numerous multi-cuisine
restaurants, pubs, shopping arcades and hotels.
The Akshardham
Temple, which is the largest Hindu Temple in the world, exhibits a
detailed picture of Indian culture and religion… thus making it another
prominent tourist attraction in New Delhi. Don’t miss out the light and
sound show. If you are travelling to New Delhi at the time of Republic
Day then you must catch a glimpse of the parade in front of the Red
Fort. Shopaholics have a whole lot of options. S.N. Market, Lajpat
Nagar, Janpath, Sadar Bazar and Palika Bazar are some of the notable
shopping areas in the city where arrays of shops from garments to
handicrafts and antiques to electronic goods can be found.
Temperature during winter: 3°C to 22°C
2. Agra
Home to one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal, which is a
marble monument built by Shah Jahan and often dubbed as a ‘symbol of
love’, the medieval city of Agra is yet another good pick from the
bucket of destinations to visit in North India during the winter. Agra
dilates an eminent chapter of the Golden Era of the Mughal Empire. The
city hosts several other historical ramparts including the Agra Fort
and other monuments and palaces. It is also noted for its traditional
culture, architecture, marble crafts, leather products and cuisine.
During the winter Agra is packed with tourists from all over the world
but the marvelous sight of the Taj Mahal
once you get hold of leaves you in a state of solitude… no matter who
so ever knocks you from behind. Approximately an hour’s drive from Agra,
Fatehpur Sikri, which is famed for its Buland Darwaza, is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, and is a must visit place for travellers having an interest in Indian medieval history. Further, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary makes for a refreshing getaway from Agra.
Temperature during winter: 7°C to 25°C
3. Jaipur
The only planned city of its time, Jaipur the capital city of royal
Rajasthan still beats in its fairy tale palaces and rugged fortresses
perched on hills. Today it is a blend of tradition and modernity but the
colour pink is still associated with hospitality in Jaipur. Being of
historical importance, the city is one of the most popular tourist
destinations in North India during the winter. It is a city where a
traveller can participate in a lot of activities like heritage tour,
shopping traditional items and jewelleries, elephant safari apart from
trying out Maharaja Thali. The City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar,
Lake Palace and Amber Fort are the major heritage sites in Jaipur. In
the outskirts… the Nahargarh Fort and Jaigarh Fort are the two notable
heritage sites. On the other hand, the city hosts several Hindu and Jain
temples; of them the Birla Mandir, Narayan Temple, Galtaji, Choolgiri
Temple, and Govind Devji Temple are the notable ones. Ram Niwas Bagh,
Dolls Museum, B.M. Birla Planetarium and Ghat Ki Guni are some other
tourist spots in Jaipur. Well, don’t miss out the light and sound show
at Kesar Kyari in Amber Fort. It is held every evening.
Temperature during winter: 7°C to 25°C
4.Jaisalmer
The remote fort city of Jaisalmer, which is located in the midst of the Thar Desert in the incredible state of Rajasthan,
is yet another popular winter getaway in India. It attracts all
travellers including honeymoon couples, and other leisure travellers.
The city is noted for several architectural buildings belonging to
former rulers. The Jaisalmer Fort, which is also known as ‘Sonar
Quilla’, housing several havelis and Jain temples, is one of the
beautiful examples of craftsmanship exhibiting the rich Rajasthani style
of architecture with intrinsically designed walls, carved windows and
facades. The Nathmalji-Ki-Haveli, Patwon-Ki-Haveli and Salim Singh-Ki
Haveli are the major tourist sites that elaborate the intricate
architecture and sheer craftsmanship. The Gadisar Lake with numerous
beautiful shrines, and Bada Bagh housing several cenotaphs are some
other tourist sites in Jaisalmer. In the outskirts of Jaisalmer City,
the ruins of Kuldhara village, Barna village, Khuri Desert, Moolsagar
Palace and Ram Mandir are must visit places that leave travellers spell
bound. On the other hand… how can you escape from Jaisalmer without a
camel safari in the SAM Dunes? That’s the only way to explore the vast
stretch of the Thar Desert. The best time to visit the SAM Dunes is
during the Jaisalmer Desert Festival, which is held in the month of February. It is the best way to get acquainted with Rajasthani folk culture.
Temperature during winter: 3°C to 25°C
5. Udaipur
One of the historic cities in India that is famous internationally as
the most romantic destination in the world, partly because of the
influence of the Lake Palace Hotel
located in the middle of the placid water of Lake Pichola… Udaipur
during the winter season pulls in travellers from all over the world.
Like any other cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur also comes with its own
legends and much of its history is clearly visible from the picture
perfect gallery hosting palaces, gates, temples and quaint alleys. Each
and every turn and bricks are preserved with heroism, valour and
chivalry. Yet the city turns out to be one of the honeymoon destinations
in India during the winter. The major attractions are the Lake Palace,
Lake Pichola, City Palace, Fateh Sagar and Monsoon Palace. Some other
attractions in Udaipur are Gulab Bagh, Ahar, Pratap Memorial, Saheliyon
Ki Bari, Jagdish Temple and Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir. Close to Udaipur,
Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan and is worth a visit
during the winter. Other excursions on your Udaipur tour can be
Kumbhalgarh, which is approximately 84 kilometers away, and Ranakpur,
which is approximately 90 kilometers away.
Temperature during winter: 7°C to 25°C
From the Hills to Mind Haven
6. Manali
That’s my favourite pick any time of the year and during the winter
when you catch the glimpse of snowfall early in the morning… holding a
cup of hot coffee in your hand, your partner being cozy with you at the
same time and the stunning views of far-fetched snow capped mountains
blazing the intimacy… Ah! Nature here herself showers romanticism. I
feel like rolling over the bed once again and pouring some more lovely
moments into my winter trip to Manali. “WINK” but now it’s time to grab
nature at her best. Manali is one of the popular hill stations in India
where tranquility dwells even in the midst of tourist crowd throughout
the year. Nature here hosts an amazing alpine forest of Pine and Deodar
trees dotted with several fruit orchards and cattle farms. An hour’s
drive from Manali to Solang Valley, which during the winter season turns
out to be one of the popular ski resorts in India,
one can here exploit the nature with several adventure activities like
skiing, zorbing and paragliding. Well… the temperature over here
throughout the winter remains freezing and hence it is recommended to
carry proper woolen garments if you are planning to go for paragliding
in Solang.
Manali is also a gateway to several trekking destinations in Himachal Pradesh. During the winter season you can go for some short treks in Manali like the Bhrigu Lake trek and Beas Kund trek. Other popular treks around Manali are the Malana Valley and Chandra Tal trek,
but during winter these treks are difficult to access. Rohtang Pass,
which is at an altitude of approximately 4,000 meters, is a popular tourist destination in Manali
being the highest point on the Manali-Keylong road. Although access to
Rohtang Pass during the months of December, January and February becomes
impossible due to heavy snowfall, yet some crazy trekkers do make it to
the point. Are you one of them?
Besides its breathtaking natural
beauty, Manali is also notable for housing a rich and indigenous
Indo-Tibetan culture. The Gadhan Thehchoking Gompa and Nyingamapa Gompa
are the two popular Buddhist pilgrimage sites
that pull in several tourists from all over the world. The quaint
ambience of Vashisht village, which is approximately 3 kilometers away
from Manali, is also worth a visit on your winter trip to Manali. The
village is far-famed for hosting several hot springs and stone houses
with beautiful carvings. Apart from all… the cultural clamour can be
witnessed thoroughly when you visit Old Manali. The Hadimba Temple and
Manu Maharishi Temple are the notable attractions here. Some other
beautiful places to visit around Manali are Katrain which is popular for
its apple orchards and trot hatcheries; the temple town of Naggar; and
Manikaran, which is an important Hinduand Sikh pilgrimage site.
Temperature during winter: -2°C to 15°C
7. Dalhousie
The name itself throws a distinct colonial charm. Named after the 19
th
century British Governor General Lord Dalhousie, the scenic hill
station in Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie houses some of the most beautiful
churches of North India. The St. Patrick’s Church, St. Francis Church,
and St. Andrew’s Church are the most notable ones having rich
architectural work of their own with stone carvings, glass and wooden
structures. Besides the colonial diorama, the town’s varying altitude
spreading out over the Kathlog, Potreys, Tehra, Bakrota and Balun hills
is dramatically set with a dense grove of pines, deodars, oaks and
rhododendrons… which almost remains covered in snow during the winter.
Yes! Snowfall in Dalhousie during the winter season is the major
attraction. It is the best time to frame the panorama of the
breathtaking countryside from Panchpula, Bakrota Hills and Dainkund.
Approximately 10 kilometers from Dalhousie, Kalatope is yet another
scenic spot that also houses a wildlife sanctuary. Close to Kalatope,
Ahla village is one of the notable pilgrimage sites in and around
Dalhousie. Built in the 10
th century, Laxmi Narayan Temple is
one of the finest specimens of ancient architecture in Dalhousie.
Talking about antiques… you must pay a visit to Satdhara, which is a
stupa dating back to the Murya and Sunga period. Dakshina Murti, Shivkul
and Norwood Paramdham are some other cultural hubs in and around
Dalhousie.
Temperature during winter: 1°C to 10°C
8.Kasol
One of the least tapped hill stations in Himachal Pradesh that is
nestled in the luxuriant greens of the thick pines in Himachal’s Parvati
Valley, Kasol during the winter season truly offers a quiet weekend
getaway. The small town on the bank of River Parvati with patches of
small villages in the midst of dense pinewood is a hideout ideal for an
impromptu nature holiday in the Parvati Valley. Further, the trek to
Malana Village, which is one of the strenuous treks in Himachal Pradesh,
is a good option for an adventure trip during the winter. A visit to
the nearby Tosh village allows you to get acquainted with the Himachali
folk culture where people are extremely hospitable. Moreover, lazing
around in Kasol is just not one option for leisure travellers. Kasol is
well known for trout fishing and hence travellers dreaming of fishing and angling holiday in the Indian Himalayan region may whizz to Kasol in the winter months.
Temperature during winter: 5°C to 20°C
9.Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
Amid the quaint colonial ambiance, Kasauli unwraps rejuvenating
elements of nature with the panorama of sprawling plains of Punjab and
Haryana. The moment might drop your jaws when you catch sight of the
blazing carpet of light as darkness falls. Kasauli during the winter
season makes a cool escape from the city dust to the refreshing
atmosphere that is cuddled with thick forest of pine, oak, and chestnut
trees. Its colonial ambiance is reinforced by stretches of cobbled
roads, shops, houses with charming facades and scores of neat little
gardens and orchards. The ‘Monkey Point’ is one of the must visit places
in Kasauli, which is an important pilgrimage site. Nonetheless, the
Baba Balak nath Temple and Sai Baba Mandir are also two other religious
sites in Kasauli. Other attractions in Kasauli include the St. Patrick’s
Catholic Church that was built in 1847 AND Sunny Side, which is the
oldest cottage in Kasauli, built in 1848.
Temperature during winter: 3°C to 15°C
Dharamshala
Extolled as one of the picturesque hill stations in India
that lies on the spur of the Dhauladhar Range and dotted with thick
grove of Oak and Conifer trees, Dharamshala is no doubt a great escape
during the winter season. It’s not just about the distinct culture of
the Indo-Tibetans that has helped Dharamshala gain fame internationally
as “The Little Lhasa in India”, being the seat of His Holiness The Dalai
Lama… BUT the traditional fusion of several tribal communities makes
Dharamshala one of the important cultural hubs in Himachal Pradesh. A
glimpse of it can easily be witnessed when you step into the Kotwali
Bazar, which is a good shopping area, and McLeod Ganj, which has arrays
of shops selling Tibetan handicrafts. During the winter season the
international cricket stadium overlooking the mighty Dhauladhar
mountains is one of the spectacular sights that remain covered with
thick patches of snow. On the other hand, the Namgyal Monastery is one
of the major tourist attractions in Dharamshala. Some other attractions
in Dharamshala include the Kangra Art Museum, War Memorial, Kunal Pathri
Temple, St. John’s Church, Aganjar Mahadev Temple and Kangra Chamunda
Devi Temple.
Temperature during winter: 1°C to 12°C
11. Shimla
Even though it remains one of the bustling hill stations in India
throughout the year, Shimla during the winter season turns out to be a
fantasy world. The nature herself boasts off a scenic spectacle with
layers of snow bedded over the thick alpine forest AND the panorama from
the Ridge of snow capped mountain ranges engulfed in the beauty of the
nature is worth a capture. It is the best time, especially in the months
of December and January, to go for a forest trail that runs towards the
villages of Kamina and Pabo. If you are lucky some bird species can
also be sighted. A short trek to Tattapani is also recommended as one of
the adventure activities in Shimla during the winter season. Further,
if you are looking for some more adventure then just whizz your wheels
an hour snaking through the mountains to Kufri, which lies at an
altitude of 2,622 meters and is one of the notable skiing destinations
in the Indian Himalayan region with varying slopes. Just when you find
the temperature dipping and you run out of warm garments, check out some
quality woolens, jackets and shawls arraying down the Mall, which is
one of the longest stretches of pedestrian shopping in the world. It
also has arrays of hops dealing in traditional handicrafts, miniature
paintings, jewellery, metalwares, rugs and carpets. Close to the Mall is
the Himachal State Museum, which is one of the finest examples of
craftsmanship from the colonial era. It exhibits a huge collection of
coins, photographs and handicrafts. The Gaiety Heritage Cultural
Complex, which is another colonial architecture built in a Gothic
Victorian Style; Shimla State Museum that was built in 1974; and George
Castle are some of the prominent tourist attractions in Shimla. The
temperature might get very freezing during the winter, BUT one must step
into the Christ Church that was built by the British in 1857 in the
Neo-Gothic style of architecture and is one of the long lasting legacies
of the British Raj. On the other hand, the Jakhoo Temple, which is an
ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is one of the important Hindu
pilgrimage sites in Shimla AND one can even get hold of beautiful views
of the Shivalik mountains and the nearby town of Sanjuli. Other popular religious sites
are Tara Devi Temple and Sankat Mochan. A visit to Naldhera which hosts
India’s oldest nine hole golf course and Chail which holds the unique
distinction of being the highest cricket pitch in the world… completes
your tour to Shimla during the winter season.
Temperature during winter: 1°C to 12°C
12. Mussoorie
With green rifts of the Doon Valley at an altitude of 1,880 m,
Mussoorie takes one back to the colonial past through its tralatitious
appetizing cuisine and magnificent architectures. With abounding
trekker-friendly area, stunning chatoyant natural panorama and
glistering lakes, Mussoorie is also dotted with slushing waterfalls and
shrubby forest. Kempty falls on the way to New Tehri is the most popular
tourist destination. Among the several other tourist spots, Sir George
Everest House is often visited by tourists.
Temperature during winter: 5°C to 20°C
13. Nainital
Located in the Kumaon region, Nainital, popularly known as the Lake District in India, is the weekend gateway
for nigh domestic tourists and a beguiling sashay for foreign tourists
round the year. At a height of 1,938 m, Naini Lake, holding a perpetual
Hindu myth, is a summer retreat in the heart of Nainital. A pony ride or
a very short trek up to the Naina peak, en route through shrubby
forests, at an elevation of 2,615 m, which is the highest point in
Nainital, offers a panoramic view of distant snow-clad peaks like Nanda
Devi, Trishul and Nanda Kot. These peaks can also be clear-sighted from
Snow View Point. Orienting towards a quest for more natural virtue
Nainital is bonded with hermit destinations like Mukteshwar, offering an
unhindered view of majestic Himalayan range; Bhimtal Lake, which is
larger than Naini Lake; Sat Tal, a cluster of seven small interconnected
lakes in the mystic oak forest; Khurpa Tal, a trowel lake; Naukuchia
Tal, a nine-cornered lake; Kilbury, a weekend picnic spot popular for
its flora and fauna and Pangot, a thick forest of oak, bamboo and
deodar.
Temperature during winter: 2°C to 15°C
14. Ranikhet
The “Queen’s Meadow” with lush green conifer forests, hearty ambience,
placid surroundings, emerald green valleys and ancient temples is
footsure making it an year-round destination for tourists. Ranikhet, the
tiny hill paradise, is just a couple of hours drive from Nainital.
Temperature during winter: 7°C to 20°C
15. Kausani
Yet another spectacular hideout in the hills of Garhwal, Kausani during
the winter elaborates a striking environment with the Someshwar Valley
on one side and Katyuri Valley on the other. The landscape that is
dotted with dense pine trees and shadowed by the scenic spectacle of
Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi and Panchchuli… can’t be
compared with any other hill stations in the Garhwal region. The quaint
hill station with its picture perfect ambiance has been a favourite
place for several notable personalities like Mahatma Gandhi and
Sumitranandan Pant. The Anashakti Ashram, where Gandhi spent some days
and wrote his commentary of Anashakti yog, is one of the major
attractions in Kausani. The ancient Baijnath Temple, which dates back to
the 12
th century, and the Someshwar Temple, which was
crafted by the Chand Dynasty, are the major pilgrimage sites around
Kausani and are considered historically significant. The Rudrahari
Mahadev Temple on the way to the Adi-Kailash trek
is yet another spiritual site near Kausani. During the winter, the
Kausani Tea Estate turns into a must visit place. It is spread over an
area of 208 hectares and stretches from an elevation of 1,200 meters to
1,800 meters.
Temperature during winter: 2°C to 15°C
16. Lansdowne
One of the quaint hill stations in the Garhwal Himalayan region,
Lansdowne despite being a popular weekend getaway from nearby cities is
remote in its own way. The colonial atmosphere surrounded by the
pristine environment that is thickly bedded with oak and pine forest
represents a fusion of history and nature. During the winter season the
salubrious weather leaves an indelible impact on the tourists. It is the
perfect place where you can indulge in several recreational activities
like birding, boating and hiking. The grand view of the Himalayan ranges
from Tip-In-Top simply makes your trip to Lansdowne a memorable one. It
is worth capturing the panorama of India’s highest peak, Nanda Devi,
and its surrounding peaks from this point. Close to Tip-In-Top, the
St.Mary’s Church is one of the finest examples of the rich architecture
from the colonial era that attracts several tourists. The Garhwal Rifles
Regimental War Memorial, Garhwali Mess and St. John’s Church are some
other major attractions in Lansdowne. Bhulla Tal is another popular
tourist spot having historical significance. A short trek to Hawaghar
that passes through Khyber Pass is recommended for those looking for
some adventure activities during the winter season in Lansdowne.
Temperature during winter: 5°C to 17°C
17. Rishikesh
“The yoga capital of the world”, Rishikesh, solitude of meditation and
yoga, solenoid for esthetics, is in the foothills of Himalaya. The
religious town, in other words is also far-famed for white-water rafting
and gateway to hazardous trekking destinations. Laxman Jhula (hanging
bridge) above the River Ganga is one of the major attractions other than
temples and ashrams.
Temperature during winter: 7°C to 20°C
18. Auli
It is the perfect haven during the winter season for adventure lovers.
Over the years Auli has gained prominence as one of the best ski resorts
in India and is a gateway to numerous trekking destinations in the Garhwal Himalayan region.
The majestic view from the cable car of the lofty Himalayan peaks like
Trishul, Mana, Kamet and Nanda Devi undoubtedly leave you in a ‘Peace of
Mind’. Treks like Auli-Gorson, Kuari Pass and Tapovan further allows
you to get acquainted with the snow-ladden wilderness of the Garhwal
Himalaya during the winter.
Temperature during winter: -4°C to 14°C
19.Srinagar
Come hell or high water Srinagar
with its sparkling Dal Lake, colourful gardens and picturesque nature
has always attracted travellers since time immemorial. But if you are
travelling to Srinagar during the winter season… then you will find much
of its natural beauty dressed in snow. The Dal Lake remains frozen
almost from December to February and hence there is least possibility
that you can go for a shikara ride. Don’t worry… you have much to
explore in the city even during the winter. Many travellers travel to
Srinagar during the winter just to experience the snowfall. Perched at
an elevation of 1,585 meters in the landlocked territory of Kashmir, the
city is largely influenced by the predominantly Muslim culture that
reflects from the several monuments including tombs and mosques. The
Hazratbal Shrine, Jama Masjid, Aali Masjid, Stone Mosque, tomb of the
mother of Zain-ul-abidin and tomb of Pir Haji Muhammad are the major
tourists’ attractions in Srinagar. On the other hand, the traditional
Kashmiri handicrafts – pashmina shawl, silverware, brassware, wooden
furniture, carpet and rug – simply capture the imagination of travellers
seeking the cultural essence of the Kashmiri people. The Arts Emporium
and SPS Museum are the best places to visit in Srinagar where arrays of
traditional Kashmiri handicrafts are in display. The Pari Mahal
overlooking the Mughal garden, Nigeen Lake and Royal Springs Golf Course
are some other major tourist attractions in Srinagar. The Old City of
Srinagar having a quaint charm holds travellers mind. The Hari Parbat is
one of the major attractions in old city of Srinagar. Ah! Don’t forget
to spend a couple of nights in a houseboat… that’s one of the few
luxurious activities in Srinagar WORTH experiencing.
Temperature during winter: -5°C to 15°C
20. Gulmarg
When the sprawling green meadows of Gulmarg
are bedded with thick layers of snow… it seizes the mind of some
adventurous pioneers who cool their heels the entire year just for a
thrilling winter holiday in Kashmir in Gulmarg. It sounds like I’m
talking about some crazy skiers sliding down the mountain slopes and
shearing through the ice, which is no doubt an attraction if you are a
spectator. But when you are on the ski the story is a bit different.
Gulmarg at an elevation of 2,690 meters is one of the popular skiing
resorts in India and also an ideal winter getaway for leisure seekers.
The breathtaking view of the Himalaya from the ‘Gulmarg Gondola’, which
is one of the highest cable cars in the world, reaching approximately
4,000 meters, is another major tourist attraction in Gulmarg. The
Alpathar Lake, which remains frozen during the entire winter season;
Baba Reshi Shrine, which is dedicated to a Muslim scholar and saint Baba
Reshi; and St. Mary’s Church, a lively and religious heritage from the
colonial era are other tourist spots in Gulmarg. Travellers seeking for
more adventure may go for short hikes OR treks. Gulmarg-Khilanmarg,
Gulmarg-Apharwat and Gulmarg-Alapther trekking trails are very popular
among the trekking enthusiasts. Majestic views of Nanga Parbat,
enchanting snow covered valleys and dense forests makes a traveller’s
adventure holiday in the Indian Himalayan regiona rejuvenating one.
Temperature during winter: -3°C to 19°C
Pahalgam
Pahalgam is a haven for leisurescapers even during the peak winter
season when the entire mountain range as well as the rough terrain is
perfectly layered in snow. It is one of the popular hill stations in
north India and is perched at an elevation of 2,740 meters in the
breathtaking Kashmir Valley. With its rich flora and fauna and snow clad
mountains, Pahalgam
makes for a perfect countryside winter escape from Srinagar. The Betaab
Valley having vast natural exposure, which is approximately 15
kilometers from Pahalgam, is another beautiful place to visit for
travellers. Horse riding is one of the must-do things when you are in
Pahalgam. Adventure activities in Pahalgam also include the trek to
Sheshnag Lake and river rafting in the River Lidder. Aru Valley makes
for another beautiful excursion from Pahalgam during the winter season.
It is noted for its scenic meadows and sparkling alpine lakes.
Temperature in Pahalgam: -3°C to 12°C
22.Patnitop
It is another amazing snowy hub you have picked; Patnitop during the
winter becomes favourable for any traveller. It offers stunning views of
the Pir Panjal range and hosts several adventure activities like
paragliding, trekking, hiking, camping and rock climbing. Paragliding in
Patnitop becomes a bit tough during the winter season because of the
freezing temperature, BUT if you are prepared then that’s gonna make
your holiday in Kashmir more exciting. Further, camping and scenic
nature walks in the vicinity of Sansar Lake, which is approximately 20
kilometers from Patnitop, are two major activities worth a try for
leisure travellers. Small villages like Kud and Batote near Patnitop,
surrounded by thickly wooded Cedar and Pine forests, allow you to soak
in the charming Kashmiri culture.
Temperature in winter: -3°C to 18°C
23. Jim Corbett National Park
Home to several animal, bird and plant species, the Jim Corbett National Park
in the foothills of the Kumaon Himalaya is one of the refreshing and
thrilling winter escapes in North India. The breathtaking environment of
hills, waterfalls, rivulets and dense forest teeming with many rare
species of plants simply makes it a haven for naturalists. It is the
oldest national park in India and is also the first Tiger Reserve. The
Jim Corbett National Park is spread over an area of 521 square
kilometers and is home to several animal species like tiger, leopards,
jungle cat, fishing cat, leopard cat, barking deer, sambar deer, hog
deer and chital, Sloth and Himalayan black bears, Indian grey mongoose,
otters, yellow-throated martens, Himalayan goral, Indian pangolins, and
langur and Rhesus macaques. Amongst the bird species… the crested
serpent eagle, blossom-headed parakeet and the red junglefowl are the
major attractions. During the winter season the Jim Corbett National
Park becomes one of the busiest wildlife safari zones in India.
Thousands of wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world pay a visit to
get hold of the lush green laden wilderness on their wildlife safari
tour in Jim Corbett National Park.
24. Ranthambore National Park
Located approximately 150 kilometers from Jaipur, the Ranthambore National Park is one of the popular national parks in India
in the incredible state of Rajasthan. It is the largest home of tigers
in India and also houses several other animal and bird species. Amongst
the animal species… leopard, nilgai, wild boar, sambar, hyena, sloth
bear and chital are the common attractions whereas Graylag Goose,
Woodpeckers, Common Kingfishers, Bee Eaters, Cuckoos, Parakeets, Asian
Palm Swift, Owl, Nightjars, Pigeon, Dove, Crakes, Sandpipers, Great
Crested Grebe, Eagles, Egrets, Herons, Ibis, Pelicans, Storks,
Cuckoo-Shrikes, Minivets, Flycatchers, Wagtails, Munias, Bulbul, Mynas,
Falcons etc. are common sights amongst the bird species. The national
park covers an area of 392 square kilometers and comprises dry deciduous
forests sprawling over an undulating terrain across the Aravalli and
Vinddhyan ranges. The lovely Jogi Mahal and ruins of Ranthambore Fort
are the two heritage attractions inside the park. Besides, Padam Talab,
Rajbagh and Milak Talab are the three most jaw breaking sites where you
can catch a glimpse of several species of animals and birds including
tigers on your wildlife safari tour in Ranthambore National Park. During
the winter season the park remains a hot spot for several wildlife
lovers as it is the best time to the nature and wilderness at its best.
Some other attractions around Ranthambore National Park are Khandar
Fort, Mansarovar Lake, Bhoori Pahari Sand Dunes, Soorwal Lake, Chauth Ka
Barwara and Karauli. Don’t forget to shop some “Khas” products,
especially perfumes.
25. Hemis National Park
When time knocks your mind to do some crazy adventure activities during
the peak of winter season… all of a sudden you see yourself in the
snow-laden wilderness of Hemis National Park. Located in the catchments
of Markha, Sumdah, Rumbak and parts of the Zanskar Range in the state of
Jammu and Kashmir, the Hemis National Park is the largest national park
in India that stretches across approximately 4,000 square kilometers of
land ranging from a height of 3,500 meters to 6,000 meters. During
winter season… the Snow Leopard in the Rumbak catchment area is the
major attraction. Nonetheless, it is a home to several other endangered
species of animals and birds that include the Tibetan Wolf, Eurasian
Brown Bear, Red Fox, Golden Eagle, Lammergeier Vulture and Himalayan
Griffon Vulture. The high altitude national park in India
is also a home to Argali, Bharal, Shapu and Asiatic Ibex. Access to
Hemis National Park during the winter season becomes a bit difficult
because of its altitude and extreme cold climate. Hence it is
recommended only for travellers having prior high altitude experiences
during the winter.
Please Note: After the
recent flood attack in Jammu & Kashmir, it is recommended for the
travellers to hold on their trip to Jammu and Kashmir till the tourism
department shows the green card.