Where to go this winter

A shift in the seasons, a tilt of an axis and a drop in the temperature. The onset of winter is marked by poetic misty morningsenjoying a hot cup of tea in bed, a crisp breeze, and nights when all you want to do is snuggle into a quilt and read a book. As the weather changes to winter, those few scorching hot days before November are unbearable and we can’t help but close our eyes and picture ourselves in a little winter wonderland. The winter months are a fantastic time to discover a completely new side of some of India’s popular travel destinations.India is blessed with different climatic conditions in winter season in different parts of the country. Unlike most of the Western world, where cities are covered under a blanket of snow in winters, there is quite a bit to choose from when it comes to winter holiday destinations in India.It won’t be an exaggeration to say that the winter season is the best time to explore India. So here we are with a list of 6 winter holiday destinations in India to visit come this winter.

• Jaipur Circuit: Jaipur – Jodhpur – Jaisalmer: With the most staple and obvious number of places to visit in winter in India, this circuit finds itself gathering quite some hustle bustle from all the tourist rush its temperature and deserts were keeping away till now. Dotted by countless Havelis, Palaces and Forts, winters are an ideal time to enjoy strolls through its specimens of history. While history and architecture keep you busy through the day, Desert Safaris and lakes make their way to your itineraries by evening. These pink, blue and golden cities of India are one of the top destinations for winters, not only for all their landmarks but also their rich cultural and shopping experiences. Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Udaipur, and Jaipur – the count of best places in Rajasthan in winter is too long, but these places are at their best in winters and cannot be missed.

• Kerela: Some people just don’t like the idea of snuggling up in a warm blanket all day long. For people who would rather escape the chilling temperatures of winters, Kerala is ideal for winter holiday destinations in India.A treat for all seasons, it’s when the monsoon departs that Kerala true natural splendor reaches its zenith. Western Ghats and brackish lagoons or the backwaters bestow a unique charm on Kerala’s appeal. You name it and Kerala has it: backwaters, beaches, spice gardens, tea plantations, Ayurveda, ecotourism and abundant wildlife. That’s why Kerala is known as one of the top winter holiday destinations in India.

• Goa: While there is no month, not ideal to let Goa spoil you a little, this beach winter destination in India has a tendency to cast a spell. A perfect beach holiday, afternoons by the sea and a tan to show off, this one comes with its Decembers marked with the Sunburn Festival, making it one of the best places to visit in winter in India. The place comes alive during the winter months with all night parties and some seriously crazy crowd. The atmosphere is electric especially during the time of New Year and Christmas.The high spirits of Goa are best displayed in winters.

• Auli: Now here’s something for the more adventurous ones. Auli is a famous skiing destination in India and if you are an adventure lover, it is perfect for you. Auli is part of Uttarakhand and has some amazing skiing slopes which can best be enjoyed during winter. You stint with snow and gravity will give you memories you can cherish forever.

• Lakshwadeep: You would usually think of islands and beach destinations as summer holiday spots, but with the type of weather we’ve been having, you’ll forgive us for suggesting you would be better off visiting them during the winter. The archipelago is comfortably housed in the midst of the sea, so you can expect a fair share of sea breeze when you visit. The beaches are white and the water is a pristine blue, but that’s not the only reason we love this location. It’s rich with tropical marine life that you can spend your vacation exploring, along with coral reefs that make the weather very favourable.

• New Delhi: As summers that kept the mercury from falling below 40 in Delhi leave the capital; its calendars are turned to its favorite months. Much has been said about Delhi’s winters. Despite the chaos of the capital city, despite all the mayhem, the city takes on a magical air during the winter months. There is no better time than winters to visit the capital of India, indulge in its heritage walks, street food and shopping experiences. Shimmering in the spectacle of a myriad of monuments, lush gardens, open markets, and a plethora of architectural marvels, Delhi is amongst the best places to visit in winter in India. And do not forget to sample Delhi’s famous street food during the winter months. It tastes that extra bit delicious when there is chill in the air.

There are so many more places you can travel to during the winters in India. To start compiling all of them in one article is impossible. Pull up your socks and set out on a holiday to the amazing destinations winter decorates for you and you won’t be let down.

• About the Author

About Shreya Chaudhury

First of all, if you are going to use incorrect grammar, steer clear of Shreya Chaudhury. A proper grammar Nazi, a hardcore music enthusiast (never seen without her headphones), a professional baarat dancer and a die hard Jeffrey Archer fan, you will probably find this 17 year old with a novel in hand, day dreaming about all these places she wants to travel in the future. If only time machines worked..