The winter season is perhaps the most magical time to plan your travels in India. Crisp air and cool temperatures settle across the country.

North India, especially, quickly turns into a stunning winter wonderland of snow and ice. From snow-dusted mountains to frozen lakes and cozy hill towns, the region transforms into a dreamy escape for anyone who loves chilly mornings, scenic hikes, and winter sports.

Meanwhile, places in South India enjoy wonderfully pleasant weather. The humidity drops, the skies clear up, and the lush greenery shines brighter than ever. It’s the ideal time for serene beach walks, exploring coffee plantations, or simply soaking in the relaxed coastal charm.

Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of snowy adventures or the calm of sun-kissed shores, winter in India caters to every kind of traveler. Here, we'll walk you through some of the best winter getaways in India.

Best Winter Getaways in India

1. Manali

Does your idea of a winter vacation include snow activities, hot chai, and views of snow-capped peaks? Manali is worth a visit.

Nestled in Himachal Pradesh, Manali turns into the perfect postcard as winter transforms its valleys into white, cosy retreats.

Adventure lovers adore Solang, and that is because the famous Solang Valley is nothing short of a skiing paradise. Here, you can experience snowy slopes, adrenaline-pumping snow activities, and dreamy snow sports like skiing.

The cable car rides take you up to breathtaking altitudes where you'll witness breathtaking landscapes and floating clouds against the mystical winter sky.

The best way to experience Manali’s snowy magic is with Exoticamp’s Manali Sightseeing Trip. You can enjoy snow activities, hot chai, and stunning views without any planning stress. Our curated experience covers Solang’s skiing thrills, scenic cable car rides, and cosy winter moments perfect for anyone wanting a hassle-free Himalayan escape.

2. Gangtok & North Sikkim

Gangtok and North Sikkim make the perfect winter escape if you crave serene beauty, untouched nature, and crisp mountain views. These regions offer scenic beauty and landscapes all over India.

During the winter months, the high-altitude lakes freeze into shimmering sheets, making them perfect for photography and quiet reflection. The views of the snow-capped peaks, especially around Gurudongmar and Yumthang, promise jaw-dropping moments.

You must absolutely try hot Tibetan snacks and fun yak rides by the frozen Tsomgo Lake. Head to Zero Point, too. It offers spectacular views of the towering snow-covered mountains all around you.

3. Kedarkantha

This Himalayan gem is famous among trekkers for its breathtaking natural beauty, forest trails, and whitewashed scenery. Surrounded by pine forests, lush forests, and snow-heavy paths, it’s the epitome of a winter adventure.

The popular trek usually spans four to seven days. You walk through beautiful, dense forests and picturesque, clear meadows. The paths take you across lovely, easily navigable snow-covered trails. You will pass by the partially frozen lake known as Juda Ka Talab.

The summit stands impressively tall at 12,500 feet above sea level. From this vantage point, you get a breathtaking 360° view of the surrounding Himalayan range. You can clearly see famous snow-capped mountains like the majestic Swargarohini.

Embark on the Kedarkantha snow trek with Exoticamp’s package. Our package ensures a safe, well-planned itinerary, complete with expert guides and comfortable, cosy camps. Experience pine forests, Juda Ka Talab’s frozen charm, and the 12,500-ft summit’s stunning 360° Himalayan views. 

4. Tawang & Kaziranga

A trip to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is like stepping into a spiritual winter paradise. Dotted with monasteries, shimmering lakes, and snow-covered landscapes, Tawang is perfect for those who enjoy culture blended with untouched natural beauty.

While Tawang caters to the culturally curious traveller, nearby Kaziranga is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and lovers of the wild. Famous for its one-horned rhinos, Kaziranga is also recognized as a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Wild grasslands, misty mornings, and the sight of magnificent animals roaming freely make this region an unforgettable winter retreat.

You can experience the best of Arunachal’s winter charm with Exoticamp’s Tawang & Kaziranga Trip Package. This 5-day/4-night package combines serene monasteries, snow-covered Tawang landscapes, and the rich wildlife of Kaziranga.

You'll enjoy guided exploration, stunning lakes, and close encounters with the famed one-horned rhino. 

5. Kashmir

Can any list of winter destinations in India be complete without the magical land of Kashmir? Definitely not.

The region turns into a pristine winter wonderland with charming valleys, snow-capped mountains, and shimmering lakes.

Pahalgam and Srinagar offer stunning snowy slopes, making them ideal for snow sports like skiing and snowboarding. Gulmarg especially attracts thrill-seekers with some of the best snowy slopes in the country. Dal Lake, surrounded by snow, glows beautifully during the winter season, and the reflection of the mountains on its calm waters is pure magic.

If you're seeking a well-planned escape to Kashmir, look no further than Exoticamp’s Kashmir Camps & Stays. On this package, you'll enjoy easy access to Gulmarg’s thrilling snowy slopes, Pahalgam’s winter charm, and Srinagar’s iconic Dal Lake.

6. Auli

Auli is known globally as a skiing paradise, making it one of the best places to visit in India for a sporty winter vacation. Its stunning snow-covered landscapes, clean mountain air, and sweeping views of the Nanda Devi range create the perfect backdrop for a snowy holiday.

A major, unique attraction is the famous Auli Gondola or the Auli Ropeway. These cable car rides are actually one of Asia's longest ropeways in operation. They link Joshimath directly to Auli, soaring high over lush forests and meandering trails. The long ride offers travellers spectacular, famous views of Nanda Devi peak.

Surrounded by oak and pine forests, it gives nature lovers plenty to explore. If you’re seeking a mix of quiet moments and intense adventure sports, Auli is a perfect destination.

7. Spiti

Spiti in winter is raw, rugged, and absolutely mesmerizing. It’s not your typical tourist hotspot. It’s a remote, high-altitude desert that transforms into an enchanting winter paradise during the colder months.

The Spiti River is mostly frozen during the harsh winter months. Heavy snowfall means the usual route through Manali closes completely. You must instead travel through the long Hindustan-Tibet Highway via Shimla and Kalpa. This demanding route is an adventure itself, but the journey is highly rewarding.

You can try unique snow activities like the frozen river walk. Experience the warm local Spitian hospitality while staying in homestays. Visit the iconic Key Monastery set against the stark, white backdrop.

8. Rajasthan

Rajasthan may not be the first place you imagine for a winter retreat, but during the winter months, the state becomes a warm, colourful escape filled with culture, heritage, and festivities.

Explore the majestic forts, shop in bustling bazaars, or wander through the golden dunes during the famous Desert Festival. Jaisalmer, often called the golden city, glitters under the winter sun. Jaipur’s majestic city palace and Udaipur’s lakes offer immersive cultural experiences packed with vibrant culture and history.

For wildlife lovers, Ranthambore National Park offers an exciting tiger-spotting adventure. Rajasthan is truly a perfect destination for those wanting culture, adventure, and relaxation rolled into one.

9. Kerala

If you’d rather trade snow for sand, Kerala is your dream ideal winter getaway. This gorgeous coastal town region offers everything—serene beaches, backwaters, Ayurveda retreats, and charming hill stations.

Places like Munnar, with its sweeping tea gardens, coffee plantations, and lush greenery, give you a refreshing mountain holiday. Meanwhile, Varkala and Kovalam offer relaxing beach parties, water sports, and beautiful sunsets.

Kerala is one of the few tourist destinations where you can enjoy warm sunshine, peaceful lagoons, and a winter retreat without the chill. For underwater lovers, the scuba diving spots promise vibrant marine life and memorable water adventures.

Making Your Choice: Snow, Sun, or Culture?

At the end of the day, choosing your ideal winter getaway comes down to what your heart craves the most.

If you dream of powdery snow, crisp mountain air, and the thrill of winter adventures, India’s hill stations and snowy retreats will make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a storybook. Prefer warm sunshine, gentle waves, and easygoing beach vibes? Head south or to the coasts, where winter feels more like a soft hug than a season.

And if your soul lights up at the thought of history, festivals, and vibrant city streets, then India’s cultural gems will happily welcome you with open arms.

No matter what you pick, snow, sun, or culture, one thing is guaranteed: your winter trip will be filled with unforgettable experiences, beautiful landscapes, and memories you’ll cherish long after the season fades.