The following is a comparatively lengthy, descriptive response to the question of what are the best places to see in India during the winter, which is in the form of a travel report, not a short list of places.
Best Winter Destinations in India: Ultimate Guide.
One of the most beautiful seasons to visit India is winter. Snow-coated mountains in the north and sun-kiss beaches in the west, misty hill stations in the south, winter has made the country the heaven of a traveler. As opposed to summer where the heat restricts movement, winter provides nice temperatures, less cloudy weather, and the ideal weather to sightsee, have adventure and relax. The ultimate choice of the best winter destination in India, is always about what type of experience you want to have-snow, warmth, culture, nature or adventure. A detailed list of the top winter destinations in India is provided below depending on the mode of travel.
Manali, Himachal Pradesh – The Standard Winter Resort.
When people consider winter travel in India, Manali is the first thing that comes to their mind. Manali is situated in the Kullu Valley and this is an ideal place to experience snow, adventure and comfort. In winter (December to February), the town gets covered with snow generating postcard worthy scenes.
Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass become the adventure centres in the snowy season, where people can do skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and snow mobiles. Old Manali is a pleasant place with wooden cafes, hot meals, and the view of a river. In spite of being accessible, crowded and popular, Manali is considered one of the best winter holidays destinations because of the diversity of activities, accommodation types, and its accessibility.
Best Skiing: Snow lovers, first-time winter travelers, couples, and adventure enthusiasts.
Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir – the Winter Wonderland of India.
Gulmarg is the best choice in case your conception of winter involves thick snow, mountainous scenery and the best skiing in the world. Gulmarg, which is located in Pir Panjal range, experiences some of the highest snowfall in India. It also hosts one of the best cable cars in the world- the Gulmarg Gondola which has magnificent snow-capped view of mountains.
Gulmarg turns into an equally good ski resort as the ones in Europe in winter. It is an idyllic small town with powder snow, frozen lakes, pine forests, and an unassertive environment. It becomes incredibly cold, but the Gulmarg beauty during winter cannot be compared with anything.
Best: Skiing, snow photography, honeymooners and serious winter lovers.
Quiet and Picturesque Auli, Uttarakhand.
Auli is also regarded as a more subdued version of Manali and Gulmarg. Auli has a history of clean environment and perfectly maintained slopes and therefore, offers the best skiing experiences and views of the Himalayan ranges such as Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat.
During the winters, the Auli turns out to be a quiet snow-covered hideout with fewer tourists. The ride in the cable cars between Joshimath and Auli is the longest ride in Asia and has spectacular views during winter. Auli is ideal in the case of the snow seekers who do not want it to be chaotic.
Best on: Tranquil holidays, first-time skiers, families, and environmentalists.
Leh-Ladakh
from the Ultimate Winter Adventure.
Leh-Ladakh during winter is not a place everyone wants to go, but to those who would try it is a journey to remember. It becomes very cold, even below zero, the roads are shut down and the place is secluded. But this solitude discloses the crude and religious beauty of Ladakh.
A winter trek in India is considered to be the most well-known frozen Zanskar River trek (Chadar Trek). Snow-covered monasteries, frozen lakes, and star-cold skies are elements that give the impression of the otherworldly. Ladakh winter is extremely satisfying.
Ideal: Hardcore adventurists, seasoned travellers, and cultural explorers.
Goa – The Best Winter Getaway in India.
Not all people desire cold weather during the winter. Goa is the greatest winter destination in India in regard to sunshine, beaches, and vibrant night life. Between November and February, Goa is the place to be as the evenings are cool, the days are sunny and there is no humidity.
Goa has winter festivals through Christmas and New Year, music festivals, flea markets and beach parties. South Goa is a serene place with luxurious resorts whereas North Goa is lively and dynamic.
Best: Beach, partying, solo and friends trips.
Rajasthan (Udaipur, Jaipur, Jaisalmer) – Culture in Comfort.
The desert climate of rajasthan makes winter the ideal season to discover the rich heritage of this state. During winter, such cities as Udaipur, Jaipur, and Jaisalmer have pleasant days and cool nights.
Lakes, palaces and romanticism of Udaipur are glowing during the winter sun. The forts and the markets at Jaipur are much better to experience during the hot weather. Jaisalmer has got magic desert tours, camel rides and starry nights. Winter is also known to bring cultural festivals and thus it makes Rajasthan a well-known state in the sense of color and festivities.
Best: History – lovers, cultural tourism, luxury travel as well as photography.
Munnar, Kerala – Serene and Misty.
Munnar is the place to go during a warm and cozy winter. In the Western Ghat, Munnar boasts of low temperatures, misty mornings, rolling tea gardens and serene environs.
Long walks, scenic drives, wildlife and tea plantation visits are best experienced in winter. It is not cold in winter, yet climate is cool and soothing, and it is exactly what is needed by people who do not want to feel the heat or severe winters.
Best rooms: nature lovers, slow travelers, couples and relaxation.
Coorg, Karnataka – Coffee, Fog and Forests.
Coorg, referred to as the Scotland of India, is another great winter tourist place in South India. Winter is characterized by cold air, foggy mountains and greenery. Coffee plantations, falls and forest tracks generate a relaxing environment.
Coorg can be described as the best place to take a relaxing vacation and have some light adventure, food and scenery. It is particularly well-liked during weekend excursions and a love affair.
Best in: Leisurely holidays, couple holidays, and nature holidays.
Summary: Which is the Best winter place in India?
The best winter destination in India does not exist, and it is all a matter of preference.
Gulmarg or Manali cannot be defeated in case you need snow and adventure.
Auli is the place to go when you want to have peaceful snow.
Goa would be the obvious choice in case sun and beaches are preferable.
Rajasthan is glittering in winter in case you are a history and culture lover.
In case you prefer forest, quietness and relaxation, Munnar or Coorg will suit very well.
The best period to explore India is during winter when the country has the greatest diversity of travel experiences. You either want to play with snowflakes or chase sunsets, or enjoy quietness, any rate, there is a winter destination in India that suits you.
[?] 1. Snow + Adventure – Manali, Himachal Pr
Why go there: Snowfall, mountain sightseeing, adventure sports, comfortable cafes.
Peak season: Dec-Feb (optimal snow and winter temperature).
[?] Activities
Solang Valley Skiing: Snow games and snow-photography.
Beginner Snowboarding and skiing.
Excursion to Hadimba Temple / Old Manali cafes.
Drive to Rohtang Pass (open: road closures are frequent)
Hotel & Budget
Budget: [?]800-[?]2,000/night homestays
Mid-range: [?]2,500-[?]6,000/night hotels
Luxury: [?]7,000-[?]15,000/night resorts
Approximate cost in percentage per day travel (per head): [?]4,000-[?]10,000 stay, meals, and domestic transportation ([thelostinindia.com][2]).
Tips
Use a shared taxi so that the cost of traveling is minimized.
Rental of snow gear in Solang ~[?]700-[?]1,500/day; lessons in skiing will be a supplement. ([Reddit][3])
[?] 2. Mountain resort
in India [?].
[?] Things to Do
Ride Ride the Gulmarg Gondola (Asia-one of the highest).
Skiing and snowboarding through different slopes.
Tour snow-white meadows and mountain Apharwat.
Hotel & Budget
Budget: [?]1,200-[?]3,000/night guesthouses
Mid-range: [?]3,500-[?]8,000/night
Luxury: [?]8,000-[?]20,000+ (resorts)
The approximate daily trip cost (transport, lodging, food, etc.): [?]8,000-[?]15,000 daily, which includes food, accommodation, transportation and activities, and the charges get higher when you rent skiing equipment or book guides
Tips
It is necessary to book ahead when there is a peak season in winter.
Roads are also close in heavy snow, sometimes, cars are not allowed to pass, and there are weather conditions that have to be checked.
[?][?] 3. Skiing and Views at Auli, Uttarakhand.
Visiting attraction: Good winter slopes and Nanda Devi sceneries.
Season: Dec-Mar
Ski trails of every level.
Ride the cable car/ropeway
Snow hikes/ short winter hikes
Hotel & Budget
Budget: [?]1,000-[?]3,000/night
Mid-range: [?]3,500-[?]8,000/night
Luxury: [?]8,000-[?]15,000+
Daily trip cost: [?]6,000-[?]12,000 approximate.
Tips
The right choice in case of couples or small groups who would like snow and a lower profile than Manali.
[?] 4. Goa – Winter Sunshine & Beaches
Why go: Sun, Sand, Warm winter weather, Parties, Markets. Best time: Nov-Feb (ideal warm getaway).
Activities
Beach hopping (Baga, Calangute, Palolem)
Cruises, dolphins and water sports.
Christmas & New Year holidays.
Pay visits to Portuguese heritage churches.
Hotel & Budget
Budget: Hostel/ guesthouse [?]500-[?]1,500/ night ([thelostinindia.com][2]
Mid-range: [?]2,000-[?]6,000/night
Luxury: [?]7,000-[?]20,000+
Per day trip charge: [?]2,000-[?]7,000 (Can be different at New Year party events). ([thelostinindia.com][2])
Tip
South Goa is likely to be less crowded and expensive as compared to North Goa. ([thelostinindia.com][2])
[?] 5. Rajasthan winter circuit – Culture and Comfort.
Why go: Sunny weather, castles, palaces, desert safaris.
Top Spots
Jaipur – Palaces, bazaars
Udaipur – walks and lakes.
Jaisalmer- Desert safaris and camel ride.
Mount Abu – Winter Festival (Dec 29-31) folk art & music ([Wikipedia][7])
Hotel & Budget
Budget: [?]1,000-[?]3,000/night
Mid-range: [?]3,500-[?]8,000/night
Luxury: [?]8,000-[?]25,000+ (palaces; heritage hotels
Daily trip cost: [?]4,000-[?]10,000
Munnar, Kerala – Hill Station & Tea Gardens.
Why visit: X Cool and misty hills and expansive tea estates
Best time: Dec-Feb
Activities
Eravikulam National Park
Tea museum & plantation tours
Mattupetty dam boating
Scenic valley viewpoints. (Airtel)
Hotel & Bugget
Coorg, Karnataka – Coffee Estates and Cool Winters.
Reasons to visit: Cold winters, coffee tours, falls.
Activities
Coffee plantation tours
Abbey & Iruppu Falls
Local Coorg cuisine & culture
Hotel & Budget
Budget: [?]1,500-[?]3,500
Mid-range: [?]3,500-[?]8,000
Luxury: [?]8,000-[?]15,000+
Cost of trip, daily: [?]3,000-[?]8,000. ([thelostinindia.com][2])
Mussoorie & Nainital – Friedrich Hill Stations.
Mussoorie – Snow Snowfall is the occasional thing that produces dreamy atmosphere when it falls. ([Wikipedia][8])
Nainital – Snowy lake side walks and the leisure views of the hill
Hotel & Budget
Budget: [?]1,000-[?]2,500
Mid-range: [?]3,000-[?]6,000
Luxury: [?]6,000-[?]10,000+
Daily cost: [?]3,500-[?]8,000
[?] Transport & Planning Tips
Early reservation: Necessary in flights and trains of Dec-Jan.
Delhi: It is cheap to travel by buses and Volvo coaches to the hill stations around Delhi.
Prepare warm clothes: Particularly in Himalayan destinations.
Road closures in the check area: The highest mountain passes may be under snow
One Minute Shopping Recommendation Profile.
Snow & Adventure:
Gulmarg, Manali, Auli
Warm & Relaxing:
Goa, Rajasthan
Nature & Scenic Escapes:
Munnar, Coorg, Nainital
Budget-Friendly:
Mussoorie, Nainital, Coorg, Goa guesthouses.
[?] Snowfall & Himalayan Destinations.
Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
Gulmarg is one of the best winter resorts in India which is recognized worldwide on the basis of deep snow and ski slopes. It is a fairy-tale landscape that is covered with snow on pine forests in the wintertime.
Weather:
Its temperatures are between -8degC and 5degC and heavily snows during the month of December, up to February.
Things to Do:
Skiing and snowboarding
Rides on the cable car that has panoramic views of Himalaya.
Snow trekking and photography.
Eating local food in hot cafes.
Who Should Visit:
Love-at-first-sight lovers, honeymoon lovers, snow sports lovers.
Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli is renowned with broad slopes, clean surroundings and breathtaking sceneries of some of the highest peaks in India.
Weather:
The average temperature is between -5degC and 10degC and snows are mostly experienced during the months of January and February.
Experiences:
Beginner and professional skiing lessons.
Rides on long ropeways in the snowy woods.
Beautiful scenery walks and outlooks.
Peaceful mountain stays
Best For:
Lovers, families and travellers who want to enjoy peaceful snow resorts.
Himachal Pradesh Manali and Solang Valley.
Manali is a winter holiday town in India, which is a good mix of snowfall, adventure and culture and night life.
Weather:
The temperatures vary between -2 deg C to 10 deg C and there is often a lot of snow during the winter.
Things to Do:
Snow sports in Solang Valley.
Go to temples with snow all around.
Old Manali cafe hopping and shopping.
Winter photographs and brief trips.
Best For:
Families, groups of friends, first time snow travelers.
Shimla and Kufri, Himachal Pradesh.
Shimla is a mixture of colonial beauty and winter beauty, and Kufri located near it provides fun based on snow.
Weather:
The temperatures are normally between -2degC and 8degC.
Highlights:
Strolling through ancient roads.
Experiences of snow falling at Kufri.
Ice skating and scenic perspectives.
Relaxed sightseeing
Ideal For:
Families, elderly citizens, couples.
Leh-Ladakh (Extreme Winter Travel).
Ladakh is not a place that everyone wishes to go during winter, but the winter is something that one will never forget.
Weather:
At night the temperatures could drop to -25degC.
Things to Experience:
Frozen rivers and lakes
Winter trekking on high altitude.
Buddhist monasteries in the most silent version.
Winter life of the locals.
Best For:
Only those who have travelled a long way and people seeking adventure.
Serene and Unconventional Hill Resorts.
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
In Mussoorie, there are snowfalls, scenic walks and winter sunset.
Why Visit:
Pleasant winter atmosphere
Occasional snowfall
Easy accessibility
Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
Munsiyari is a good destination to visit when one wants to be silent, see snow, and observe nature that is not developed.
Highlights:
Himalayan panoramas
Snow-covered trails
Traditional village life
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
During winter, Tawang is transformed into a magic place because of frozen landscapes and spiritual peace.
Key Attractions:
Monasteries under snow
Mountain strips and waterfalls of ice.
Unique local culture
[?] Cozy and Cozy Winter Resorts.
Rajasthan (Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur)
The forts, palaces and deserts of Rajasthan are best to be visited during winter.
Weather:
Daytime temperatures of between 10degC and 25degC.
Experiences:
Heritage sightseeing
Desert camping and camel safaris.
Cultural performances
Shopping in markets of color.
Goa
Goa is the ideal combination of sun, sand and party during the winter.
Why Visit:
Pleasant beach weather
Water sports and boat cruises.
Vibrant nightlife and celebrations.
Kerala
Kerala is a perfect destination as it can be explored by nature, wellness, and relaxation.
Highlights:
Backwater houseboat stays
Tea gardens in the hill stations.
Wildlife reserves
Conventional wellness treatments.
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
It is the winter season that is bringing calm seas and skies to these tropical islands.
Things to Do:
Snorkeling and scuba diving
Island hopping
Beach relaxation
Culture, Festivals and Experience Winter Like a Unique.
Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
Surreal is the white salt desert enormously large in winter.
Why Visit:
Cultural festivals
Salt flats view with full moon
full moon views with salt flats
Local craft and food.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Mornings in Varanasi during the winter are hazy and religious.
Experiences:
Sunrise boat rides
Riverbank evening cults.
Spiritual strolls down narrow streets.
Wildlife Destinations (Best in winter)
Wildlife safari in winter is the best as the scenery is dry and animals can be seen better.
Top Choices:
Tiger reserves
Bird sanctuaries and national parks.
Nature walks and forest safaris.
Winter Travel Tips for India
Clothing:
Snow areas: thermal garments, gloves, rain jackets.
Hot weather: light clothes, comfortable shoes.
Planning:
Early bookings during high winter seasons.
Do not travel last minute during holidays.
Health & Safety:
And keep cool in cold weather.
High-altitude acclimatization.
Carry basic medicines
Quick Destination Guide
Style of Traveling? – WHERE to go?
Snow & Adventure Gulmarg, Auli, Manali.
Family Trips Mussoorie, Shimla.
Culture & History Varanasi, Rajasthan.
Beaches Goa, Kerala, Andaman
Offbeat Travel Munsiyari, Tawang.
Flora and fauna National reserves and parks