Snow, Sand Or Plantation: 18 Must-Visit Destinations To Escape To This Winter

If seeing snowfall is on your bucket (or resolution) list, Manali’s wintry abode is your next winter vacation spot. You’ll also get to experience the thrill of adventure sports paragliding, ice skating, rappelling, and rock climbing. The snowy treks in the morning and bonfire camping at night really make this a memorable winter trip spot.

Accommodation options: The Lama House for a secluded stay, and Zostel for hostel feels.

Nearest Airport: Kullu Manali Airport in Bhuntar. However, for a more adventurous trip, fly to Chandigarh or Delhi and then take the HRTC bus to Manali.

The mountain ranges, bathed in snow sheets make for an awe-inspiring sight in the beautiful hill station of Auli. For something different to do than the usual routine in the mountains, you can learn how to ski in Auli. From December to March, you can acquire the skill of this thrilling adventure sport which makes Auli a unique winter getaway destination.

Accommodation options: Cliff Top Club Resort for a luxurious stay and The Tattva Resort for beautiful gardens and hammocks.

Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Domestic Airport, Dehradun and then take a local cab to Auli.

Everyone knows Leh to be the trip of a lifetime. It’s on all our bucket lists, and we’re on an everlasting lookout for that perfect time to breathe in the green beauty of this hilly paradise. If you’re looking to add in a little more adventure to your winter trip goals, Leh will welcome you with a frozen lake trek, mesmerising mountain backdrops, and temperatures as low as -14 degrees celsius.

Accommodation options: HosteLaVie for backpackers and WelcomHeritage Lha-Ri-Sa Resort for a traditional cum modern stay.

Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh.

The wondrous beaches of Diu put some of the best ones in the country to shame. You can expect to lose all sense of time and reality once you stand ashore the Arabian Sea on the soft sand that spans the Diu coastline. The temperature ranges perfectly between 16 and 23 degrees, making it perfect for a breezy winter vacation if you’re not in the mood to spend your winter tucked in a blanket.

The Festa De Diu is Asia’s longest beach festival (5 days) which starts in December and will be your prime entertainment source in this sand-laden paradise but there's still lots that you could do in January.

Accommodation options: Sugati Beach Resort and Kostamar Beach Resort for ocean view rooms.

Nearest Airport: Ahmedabad Airport is the nearest International airport. Alternatively, fly to Rajkot domestic airport, Gujarat then take a local cab to Diu.

With deep blue seas, the white sand beaches, and palm trees aplenty, Andaman Islands are perfect winter vacation spots if you want to get away from the cold weather and relax in beach shorts with a drink in your hand. Tropical jungles and long, curved beaches make this the perfect romantic setting (even with your BFF). You can also engage in the best scuba diving and snorkeling experiences at the beautiful islands.

The gorgeous Havelock Island is home to the Radhanagar Beach, which is labelled to be Asia’s best beach and the 7th best in the world (convinced yet?)

Accommodation options: SeaShell Resort for ultimate privacy and The Barefoot Hotel at Havelock for a once-in-a-lifetime experience of diving with the only swimming elephant of Andaman, Rajan.

Nearest Airport: Direct flight to Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair.

If camping is your idea of a winter vacation, Rann Of Kutch will welcome you to its white desert turning blue under the moonlight. This astonishing sight isn’t one to be missed and winter is the perfect time to catch the perfect glimpse of this magical phenomenon. The two-month-long Kutch Festival will also greet you with all the music, food, and entertainment you want for your vacay. 

Accommodation options: The Fern Residency in Bhuj for a comfortable stay and of course, camping at the Rann of Kutch festival. 

Nearest Airport: Bhuj Airport, then take a local cab to Rann Of Kutch.

From music festivals to happening casinos, Goa becomes the ultimate hotspot for teenagers and families alike to wind down and party up. Beaches, shacks, trance music, and incessant drinks make Goa the Las Vegas of India. Winters make Goa the hub for people nationwide to fly down and enjoy the perfect weather. But for all the information on Goa, check out LBB's Guide To Goa!

Just a heads up, be prepared to shell out extra money everywhere and for crowded beaches because Dec to Feb is actually peak tourist season in Goa.

Nearest Airport: Goa has six airports in total, the closest one being the Dabolim Airport.

Warm days, chilly nights, and the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) are all the right reasons for a weekend getaway to Jaipur this winter. Spend your time shopping at Jaipur's famed bazaars or soak in the history at its many forts and palaces, Jaipur won't disappoint you. 

Accommodation options: Castle Kanota for a luxurious stay, Shahpura House for Haveli-esque vibes, and The Hosteller for meeting new people.

Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport.

Situated around 250 kilometres from Delhi, Lansdowne is one of our favourite hill stations for a quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Go on a jungle safari, take a nature walk, camp under the starry night sky, and just marvel at nature's bounty when you're in Lansdowne. It's kind of perfect for a getaway. It also snows sometimes in December, so be prepared to layer up!

Accommodation options: Blue Pine Resort for excellent mountain views and Airbnbs for budget stays.

Nearest Airport: Dehradun Airport

Jim Corbett National Park transforms into a bird-watching heaven every winter and the cool weather makes hiking and walking in the woods, a pleasing activity. There are amazing resorts inside and outside the park that'll make your winter trip very comfortable and the delicious Kumaoni food will keep you satiated. 

Accommodation options: Taj Corbett for a luxurious, river-side stay and Lebua Corbett for stargazing.

Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Aiport. Alternatively, fly down to either Delhi or Dehradun and then drive down to Jim Corbett National Park.

Mukteshwar offers some of the best views of the daunting Himalayas and is a great place to visit if you have a penchant for exploration. Apart from chilling and relaxing in the pristine hills, you can head to Chauli ki Jali for a day of adventure activities like rock-climbing, zip-lining, and rappelling. It snows here in January and February, so plan your winter trip accordingly.

Accommodation options: Dyo - The Organic Village for a taste of village life and The Chirping Orchard for a cozy stay.

Nearest Airport: Fly to Pantnagar and take a taxi from there.

Another Rajasthan tourist hotspot, Udaipur is truly magical this time of the year. The drop in night temperatures and the beautifully lit up lakes and forts make for a very calming winter getaway. Don't miss out on the stunning light and sound show at Kumbhalgarh Fort and the Shilpgram Utsav that happens in the last week of December. 

Accommodation options: Rosie's Retreat Homestay and Hotel Sarovar for a quaint, lakeside stay, The Banjara Hostel for budget stays, and Taj Lake Palace for abundant luxury.

Nearest Airport: Direct flight to Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur.

Shop your hearts out at Sister's Bazaar, hike to Lal Tibba, satiate your sweet tooth at Landour Bakehouse, and get lost amongst books at Rokeby Manor's library. Landour is all this and so much more. And the winter fog makes it absolutely breathtaking. The fact that it's close to Mussoorie and you don't have to worry about supplies is an added bonus.

Accommodation options: Rokeby Manor for an English country style stay and La Villa Bethany for vintage feels.

Nearest Airport: Fly to Dehradun and hail a taxi from there.

Panchmarhi, widely known as 'Satpura ki Rani', is a hill station in Madhya Pradesh replete with waterfalls, caves, and natural beauty. The temperature ranges from 9 degrees celsius - 14 degrees celsius and the ample (and stunning) green cover is perfect for a winter vacation full of rejuvenation and relaxation. Do also check out the Satpura National Park when you're there.

Accommodation Options: WelcomHeritage Golf View for its greenery and The Summer House for beautiful mountain views.

Nearest Airport: Fly to Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal and take a bus/cab from there.

With temperatures dropping to -9 degree celsius during winters and a thick sheet of snow covering the whole landscape, Parashar Lake in Himachal Pradesh is a heaven for all trekkers and camp lovers out there. The trek goes through dense deodar and pine forests and the scenic beauty on your way up looks awesome. Remember to layer up well, carry ample food, and probably hire a guide to help you out on this winter trip. 

Accommodation options: Just book a tent at the Parashar Lake area. It's the best way to soak in the natural beauty.

Nearest Airport: Fly to Chandigarh and then take a taxi or drive down to Parashar Lake base camp via Mandi.

The other coffee county (the original being Coorg), is quite the upcoming destination, thanks mostly to the brilliant roads, gorgeous homestays and short distance from Bangalore. Besides, it’s very tough to say no to lush green coffee estates, waterfalls dotting the landscape, and the highest mountain peak between the Nilgiris and The Himalayas! As usual, we’ve done all the hard work, so all you need to do is pack you bags, and go! But, since times are so different from earlier, please ensure you check if places are safe, and open for visiting before you go. Here's a few of our favourite things to do in Chikmagalur. 

Accommodation options: A hot favourite with LBB users, with over 67,000 saves on this post alone, you have to stay at Villa Urvinkhan. For other spots, check out these homestays in Chikmagalur.

There’s plenty to do in Coorg, that’s for sure. You can trek through the hills and coffee plantations, embark on wildlife safaris, visit local Tibetan settlements, and tuck into delicious Pandi curry – it’s all there! With mild temperatures that don't go below 6°C go here for a chilly winter but not freezing!

Accommodation options: For a taste of the famous Kodava hospitality, you can check into any of the homestays or you can cool your heels at a lavish, star properties as well. But we also love Capitol Village for the vibes, food and the gorgeous little tank on the property!

Driving Time: 5 hours (approx) from Bangalore.

Jazz up your WFH setting a bit by visiting these hotels in the mountains which have killer views. Anything for increased productivity, we'd say. Or if you're burnt out, head to these wellness centres that will pick you back up. Or hey, check out this homestay in Mashobra that keeps travelling to different places (while you still can.)

Disclaimer: If you choose to travel, please do so safely and remember to wear a mask at all times and continue practicing social distancing.