Explore Winter Wonderland: A Complete Guide to the Best places to visit in Winter Destinations in India

For people across India, winter is the perfect time to travel. Snow-covered landscapes, chilly winds, misty mountains, hot comforting food, and a magical winter atmosphere—everything together makes winter travel truly special. India is blessed with many places where nature shows its most beautiful side during the colder months. Snowy peaks, foggy lakes, quiet forests—each destination offers a unique charm.

In this guide, you’ll find the 10 best places to visit in winter travel destinations in India, explained in simple english. We cover everything—budget, food, sightseeing places, special attractions, famous dishes, and more.

Now Let’s start to explore!

1. Shimla – The Snow Capital of Himachal

Shimla is one of the most beautiful and popular hill stations in India. You can visit Shimla anytime, but winter adds a magical touch. After snowfall, the whole town looks like a fairyland. Snow-covered hills, old British-era buildings, and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect winter getaway.

Why Shimla is Special for best places to visit in winter

Regular snowfall in December–January
Ice skating and skiing
Beautiful mountain views

Stay Cost

Budget hotels: ₹800 – ₹1500
Homestays: ₹1000 – ₹2000

Food Cost

Roti–Dal–Sabzi/Thali: ₹150 – ₹250
Himachali specials: ₹250 – ₹350

Places to Visit

• Mall Road
• kufri
• Jakhu Temple
• Chadwick Falls

Best Time to Visit

December – February

Famous Foods

Himachali Siddu
Chapati
Tibetan Momos

What to Buy

Woollen mufflers
Wooden handicrafts
Hand-made coats

2. Manali – Snow, Adventure & Romance

Manali is a top winter destination in India. Surrounded by rivers, valleys, ancient temples, and adventure sports, it is ideal for couples, families, and thrill-seekers.

Manali Best places to visit in winter

Skiing at Solang Valley
Ropeway rides over snow
River-side resorts

Stay Cost

Budget hotels: ₹800 – ₹1500
Resorts: ₹2000 – ₹3500

Food Cost

Simple meals: ₹120 – ₹200
Pahadi thali: ₹250 – ₹350

Places to Visit

• Solang Valley
• Rohtang Pass
• Hadimba Temple
• Beas River

Best Time

December – March

Famous Foods

Dham
Madi Roti
Trout Fish

What to Buy

Woollen jackets
Hand-knitted sweaters
Himachali caps

3. Auli – India’s Best Skiing Destination

Auli is famous across India for its amazing skiing slopes. The snow-covered hills and chair-lift rides give breathtaking views. Whether you want to relax or trek, Auli never disappoints.

Auli’s Best places to visit in winter

International-standard skiing slopes
Stunning views of Nanda Devi and Mana Peak

Stay Cost

Budget hotels: ₹1000 – ₹1800
Resorts: ₹2500 – ₹4000

Food Cost

Simple hill thali: ₹150 – ₹250
Fresh local vegetables: ₹80 – ₹150

Places to Visit

• Chairlift ride
• Gurso Bugyal
• Kuari Pass Trek

Best Time

December – February

Famous Foods

Kefiri Roti
Mountain Tea

What to Buy

Woollen socks
Herbal products

4. Nainital – Misty Lakes & Winter Romance

Nainital is best places to visit in winter, and known as the ‘Lake District of India’, is a peaceful and charming destination. The name Nainital means “Lake of the Eye,” inspired by ancient mythology. In winter, the lake surrounded by mist and mountains looks even more beautiful.

Why Nainital is Special

Mesmerizing lake views
Boating
Calm winter weather

Stay Cost

Budget hotels: ₹700 – ₹1500
Lake-view hotels: ₹1500 – ₹3000

Food Cost

North Indian thali: ₹120 – ₹200
Pahadi dishes: ₹150 – ₹250

Places to Visit

• Naini Lake
• Snow View Point
• Mall Road
• Hanuman Garhi

Best Time

December – February

Famous Foods

Gahat Dal
Bhutka Roti
Pakoras

What to Buy

Woollen coats
Local dry fruits
Wooden handicrafts

5. Kullu – A Blend of Nature, Rivers & Temples

Kullu is a serene town on the way to Manali. It’s less crowded and surrounded by nature, making it a perfect winter escape.

Kullu Best places to visit in winter

Calm and peaceful environment
Beautiful blend of rivers and mountains

Stay Cost

Budget hotels: ₹600 – ₹1200
Homestays: ₹800 – ₹1500

Food Cost

Thali: ₹120 – ₹200
Trout fish: ₹150 – ₹250

Places to Visit

• Kullu Valley
• Raghunath Temple
• Great Himalayan National Park

Best Time

December – March

Famous Foods

Kullu Trout
Sepu Badi

What to Buy

Kullu shawls
Sepu Badi

6. Mount Abu – Rajasthan’s Only Hill Station

Mount Abu is Rajasthan’s cool escape. It offers beautiful views, greenery, lakes, and a soothing winter climate.

Mount Abu Best places to visit in winter

Beautiful lake
Famous Dilwara Jain Temples
Pleasant winter weather

Stay Cost

Hotels: ₹800 – ₹1500
Resorts: ₹2000+

Food Cost

Rajasthani thali: ₹150 – ₹250
Snacks: ₹30 – ₹60

Places to Visit

• Nakki Lake
• Dilwara Temples
• Sunset Point

Best Time

November – February

Famous Foods

Dal-Baati-Churma
Gatte ki Sabzi

What to Buy

Rajasthani handicrafts
Jewellery

7. Coorg – The Kashmir of South India

Coorg in Karnataka offers mist-covered hills, waterfalls, and stunning trekking spots. Winter brings even more beauty with refreshing fog and greenery that’s why it is the best places to travel in winter.

Why Coorg is Special for best places to visit in winter

Coffee plantations
Waterfalls
Peaceful surroundings

Stay Cost

Homestays: ₹800 – ₹1500
Resorts: ₹2000 – ₹4000

Food Cost

South Indian thali: ₹100 – ₹180
Coorgi chicken: ₹150 – ₹250

Places to Visit

• Abbey Falls
• Madikeri Fort
• Raja’s Seat

Best Time

November – February

Famous Foods

Pandi Curry
Coffee

What to Buy

Coffee powder
Spices

8. Leh–Ladakh – India’s Dream Winter Journey

Ladakh is a breathtaking region surrounded by tall mountains and cold desert landscapes. Winter adds even more charm with frozen lakes, peaceful monasteries, and adventurous routes.

Why Ladakh is Special

Snow-covered roads
Calm, beautiful lakes
Ideal for adventure lovers

Stay Cost

Guesthouses: ₹700 – ₹1500

Food Cost

Momos/Thukpa: ₹60 – ₹150
Ladakhi thali: ₹150 – ₹250

Places to Visit

• Pangong Lake
• Nubra Valley
• Shanti Stupa

Best Time

January – March

Famous Foods

Skyu
Tibetan Tea

What to Buy

Woollen caps
Incense sticks

9. Gulmarg – India’s Snow Paradise

Gulmarg is one of India’s most iconic winter destinations. It is simply the king of snowfall!

Why Gulmarg is Special

Gondola ride
Perfect skiing slopes

Stay Cost

Hotels: ₹1000 – ₹2000

Food Cost

Kashmiri cuisine: ₹150 – ₹250

Places to Visit

• Gulmarg Ski Point
• Apharwat Peak

Best Time

December – March

Famous Foods

Rogan Josh
Kashmiri Pulao

What to Buy

Kashmiri shawls
Dry fruits

10. Tawang – The Hidden Winter Gem of Arunachal

Tawang is a peaceful, spiritual, and snowy winter destination in Northeast India. With monasteries, quiet hills, and frozen landscapes, it feels heavenly.

Why Tawang is Special

Beautiful monasteries
Snowy roads
Peaceful surroundings

Stay Cost

Budget hotels: ₹800 – ₹1500

Food Cost

Momos: ₹40 – ₹80
Thukpa: ₹80 – ₹120

Places to Visit

• Tawang Monastery
• Sela Pass
• Bomdila

Best Time

December – February

Famous Foods

Sila Roti
Tibetan soup

What to Buy

Woollen jackets
Handicrafts

Conclusion

Winter travel always brings a special feeling. Every corner of India transforms beautifully during this season. Snowy peaks, silent lakes, thick forests, colourful monasteries—each destination offers peace, beauty, and unforgettable memories.

Shimla, Manali, Auli, Nainital, Kullu, Mount Abu, Coorg, Leh–Ladakh, Gulmarg, and Tawang—these 10 winter destinations will refresh both your mind and your holiday.