Priyanko Sarkar: I returned from my first ever trip to India’s North East last week and have been raving about it ever since. While most of us have fond memories of summer vacations, the concept of winter holidays hasn’t really caught on yet. I hope this guest post pushes you to find your own winter destination soon.
Holidays in India are always magical and winters make it all the more special. The tropical country enjoys winters to its fullest. The mountains receive powdery snow while the beaches are balmy spots of bliss, the plains are cloaked in fog and every corner is seen rejoicing the season.
A winter holiday in India is one of the best experiences one can have. Indulge in skiing, beach fun, water sports, relaxing, houseboat cruise on backwaters, festivals, wildlife adventure and other delightful experiences during winters in India.
Here our reasons why you should plan a trip to India in winter:
- Wildlife Safari- Thrill of Jungles
Use your winter holidays to spot big cats in the wildWildlife safaris in India are one of the best experiences one can have in the winter season. The vast and diverse landscape of the country is blessed with a number of wildlife sanctuaries and therefore the amazing chance of wildlife adventure.
The lair of tigers include Jim Corbett National Park, Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh, Kanha and Pench. Gir Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat is the habitat of Asiatic Lions. Periyar offers the golden chance to spot elephants in their natural habitat. Bharatpur and Kumarakom are popular for bird watching. Kaziranga National Park, the home endangered Single-horned Rhinoceros and Manas are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Game safaris are offered both on jeeps as well as elephant back.
- Skiing in Auli- An adventure of a lifetime
Auli in Uttarakhand is the ‘Ski Capital of India’. In fact figures state the hill town is counted among the best skiing destinations in the world. Come winter and Auli becomes a tempting reason to plan a trip be it for novice skiers or professionals.
The Auli Ski resort is managed by Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited (GMVNL) and conducts skiing lessons. Skiing is not just the only reason, the beauty of Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat and Kamat in snow covered glory is matchless. So hurry up and plan a trip to Uttarakhand for an ultimate experience!
- Water sports- Unravel the secrets of the marine world
Enjoy some tranquil moments at hill stations across the countryIndia is surrounded by waters of three major oceans teeming with marine life. Winter season, generally from November to March is the perfect time to explore the secrets of the marine world. Scuba diving and snorkeling are the thrilling adventures one can try in India. Goa, Andaman Islands and Lakshadweep Islands are the best places to plan a trip to India for expedition in the mysterious waters. Explore clear water, picturesque coral reef and varied marine life, it is truly an adventure of a lifetime.
- Houseboat ride on backwaters of Kerala – Check out the surreal water world
Backwaters in India are a network of lagoons, rivers, lakes and oceans which is easily navigable on a houseboat. Kerala is blessed with backwaters, a surreal world of blues and greens. Discover the beauty of the backwaters on a houseboat. Kumarakom, Alleppey, Poovar are some of the romantic and blissful—this will surely be one of the fondest experiences of your holiday in India.
- Luxury Train Journeys – A luxurious ride to be cherished forever
Enjoy the cold locales of IndiaComing to the next reason why you must book a winter holiday to India is luxury train rides. Inspired from the way royalty used to travel during the bygone era, India has six luxury trains and offering a number of amazing experiences. Interesting routes covering the diverse landscape, culture and heritage.
True to their name, Deccan Odyssey, Maharajas’ Express, Palace on Wheels, Golden Chariot and Royal Rajasthan on Wheels offer journeys of unrivalled bliss. You can be assured of a vacation of a lifetime on these.
- Music Festivals- Tune into the beats of the greatest events
Music festivals in India are magical. The winter month’s calendar is marked with a number of exciting music festivals. To name a few, we have NH Weekender, The Sunburn, Ziro Music Festival, Goa International Jazz Live, etc. Mixed music festivals like the Jodhpur RIFF, Magnetic Fields, Ragasthan, World Sacred Spirit Festival etc. are some incredible experiences.
The uplifting beats, dances and a carnival-like ambiance is enough reason to not miss the musical events. Being a part of any of the music festivals in India is one of the most exciting things you can do during winters.
- Goa Carnival – Party Extravaganza at the Beaches
Goa, what more can we say? The hottest party destination in India welcomes travelers from around the globe in winter. Drenched in tropical bliss, the beaches, watersports and parties give you enough reason, but the most remarkable of it all is, the Goa Carnival. The enthralling fiesta held in February is marked with acrobats, street dancers, clowns, fire eaters, grand balls, street plays, band performances and colorful parades. Come, ‘eat, drink and make merry’ at the grandest Carnival in India and explore the best of Goa in winter.
- Desert Safari – Experience the Charm of Thar Desert
India in winters can also fulfil your fantasy of desert safaris. Thar Desert is Jaisalmer is a golden sea of sand dunes, exciting camel safaris and camping in the magical landscape. Grab a chance to witness the desert life. Safaris on camels and jeeps, bonfire evenings, folk dance and music, delicious food and camping under the starry skies should be incentive enough to book a winter holiday in India.
- Ayurveda & Spa
Ayurveda & Spa holidays in India are one of the best reasons to plan a trip to India in winter. Pamper your body, mind and soul with therapies, treatments and other remedies. Ayurveda is a 5000 year old holistic science of health and wellness that originated in India and has natural solutions to health ailments and promotes wellness.
- A Calendar full of festivals
Snow-capped vistas await you in most of North India during winter seasonIndia celebrates a number of festivals in winters. From Christmas, New Year Makar Sankranti, Kite Festival, Desert Festival in Jaisalmer, Bikaner Festival, Hornbill Festival, Jaipur Literature Festival, International Yoga Festival to religious festivals of all kinds, a trip to India in winter season is full of celebrations.
Author Bio: Akansha Negi frequently writes at India Travel Blog by Indian Holiday Pvt. Ltd. Her expertise lies in writing about luxury vacations in India. She shares her passion of travel and love for various Indian destinations.
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