India's TOP 10 must visit winter destinations for wanderlusts !

✍Surbhi Dinesh Singh Khichi

It’s OFFICIALLY the season of woolens in India!!! With four months of the season in lane, it’s the time to rejuvenate, to retreat and backpack to your favorite destinations. The tropical monsoon climate of India serves the best for a vacation. Why go to Switzerland, when you have the best of Winter in India.

Here are the top 10 destinations to visit and experience the COZY WEATHER IN 2024:

The Himalayan town in Kullu District is a treat to visit for adventure and sightseeing. The renowned adventures of Solang valley, the sacred Hidimba Devi temple, the serene view of Jogini waterfall, Manikaran Gurudwara and the langar of the Himalayan region; along with the the waters of the Beas river. Not to forget the warm baths at the Vashisht baths.

‘The meadow of flowers’ is the most loved favorite destination. Located in the heaven on earth, Gulmarg crowns the glory of Kashmir. The elevated town above 2650 m above sea level offers the breathtaking beauty of Durung waterfall, the Gulmarg Gondola ride which is the highest and longest cable car ride in Asia, along with the Alpather lake’s picturesque spots, the Gulmarg Golf course (the largest in the country with 18 holes), and the beautiful strawberry valley.

The capital city of Himachal is the most popular among all. Apart from summers, it is the best time to visit Shimla from December to January. Starting out with the Hanuman temple at the Jakhu hills, the historical Christ Church, local shopping and food joints at Mall road, right alongside is the Ridge…your lookout for the cultural activities of the place, the Viceregal Lodge, the Kali bari temple and finally the Himachal state museum.

Uttarakhand is a top winter pick for a visit. The high mountain peaks, soothing climate of the Kumaon region and the beautiful sight of the lakes is a must watch. The Naina Devi temple and the mythological story behind, the 18th century Naini lake, the Snow view point offering breathtaking views of Nanda Devi, Nanda kot and Trishul; the Eco cave gardens which are formed by six natural caves are the top places to visit here. For avid literary readers out there, Nainital is the home of well known author Jim Corbett. He stayed at the Gurney house, the colonial architecture is a serve.

Nestled in the Garhwal hills of the north indian state, Mussoorie is a charm to visit. To begin with, Lal Tibba which is the highest mountain peak of the hill station, George Everest’s house facing the Doon valley, the Kempty falls located 15 kms from the centre of the hill station, Clouds End Mussoorie which is lush green and offers spectatcular views. Landour, which is the heart of Mussoorie is best while walking your way through the place. Well, its mandatory to fall for the exuding beauty of the Mussoorie lake.

The tempting beauty of Darjeeling needs no mention. In the foothills of the Great Himalayas, is the town of tea plantations and Buddhist monasteries. Starting from the top is the Tiger hill offering the memorable sunrise view over the Mount Kanchenjunga. The Ghoom monastery and the Japanese peace Pagoda are a spiritual takeaway. The Sandakpu and Lepchagat delve you in the nature around. The one of a kind – Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological park is the largest high altitude zoo in the country is a home to many endangered species. Its an off season to visit the place, yet Darjeeling is welcoming this time of the year too.

Sikkim’s capital city is an abode to glacial lakes and the enchanting views of Himalayas. The top destinations to go to are the Nathu La Pass, which is the highest motorable road of the world, the Tsomgo lake amidst the snowcapped mountains having the rare indigenous alpine flowers. The Rumtek and Emchey monastery are a peaceful visit. And the Do – Drul Chorten known for its 108 prayer wheels is a must visit. For the scenic beauty, the Seven Sisters waterfall is the go to spot. Ravangla and Pelling are the serene spots for an outing. For those who do not know, in the heart of Himalayas lies the Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site for the wild.

Moving on to the far South, we come to the City of Gods. Dense forests, home to numerous endangered species, the peaceful hills and mountain ranges are located here where lies the largest tea plantations of South India. For your next trip, you got to see the Echo point, which is the highest point in Munnar, the Pothamedu view point that holds the sight of tea, coffee and cardamom plantations. The Attukal and Chinnakanal waterfalls are never a miss. Asia’s first Arch dam, the Kundala Dam lake is a calm visit. For scenic views, do not forget the Lockheart gap.

That scene you adored from your last Bollywood film, can be right in front of your eyes when you backpack to Ooty. The star attractions of the hill station are Pykara waterfalls, botanical garden, the Doddabetta peak which is the highest point of South India and the Ooty lake. The Madumalai National Park that covers five mountain ranges is a treat to visit. The tea museum known to be quite unique is another top spot. Last but not the least, is the Fernhills Palace built by the Maharajas of Mysore.

Jaisalmer is the desert favorite when it comes to the winter visits. It was built by then Rajput ruler, Rawal, Jaisal. The grand havelis, majestic forts and the Thar’s dunes make Jaisalmer a top destination in the months from October to March. Places to look for are the Jaisalmer fort, also known as the Sonar Quila; the Patvon ki haveli which is the Mansion of Brocade merchants, Nathmal ki haveli and Salim Singh ki haveli and the famous ancient Jain temples. The Maharaja’s palace is the most fascinating of all. The beautiful Gadsar lake and Bada bagh are among the others.

With this, your winter to-visit list is ready. The top 10 is on everyone’s mind. Whether you are looking for adventure, peace, a rejuvenating break or a refreshing start, travel is all you need. And what better than India in winters. The place exudes beauty, tranquility and culture. Stay tuned this season!!