From snow-covered Kashmir to cool Coorg, winter is the best time to travel in India

Like most tropical countries, India welcomes the winter months with open arms — and in most places, with sunglasses and continued air conditioning. A respite from the sweltering summers and humid monsoons, the cooler months of the year bring mild weather and numerous excuses to book yourself and the family on a winter vacation.

Most of the country, between the months of November and February cools down to pleasant temps and heralds the start of the international tourist season as well. Around the lower half of the country, one can easily carry off a pair of shorts and tee without having to worry about feeling chilly.

It’s warm enough to don that bikini and go swimming in Goa and the climate is just right to lace up those hiking shoes for a visit through the wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka.

The Northern belt however is more or less the typical winter landscape with temperatures dropping close to freezing point and snow covering the landscape in a pristine white blanket. Either way, India offers variety this winter, so why not pack up and head out!


KASHMIR: Think winter, think snow. Even though very little of India sees snow in the colder months, we all want a bit of that white winter world. Kashmir is the answer for those looking for a holiday complete with skiing, snow ball fights and ear muffs. Gulmarg is the place to visit for those looking to indulge in winter sports.

Skiing, sledging, gondola cable car rides and snow boarding are open to tourists during the winter months, with skiing season from December 15 to April 15. While in Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir, visit the famous Dal Lake and Mughal Gardens. Pahalgam, like most of Kashmir has breathtaking natural beauty. Visit Betaab Valley, Baisaran, Sheshnag Lake, Avantipur and Chandanwari.

Sit by a bonfire and chat with other winter vacationers or spend your days trekking through the snow. Sonmarg, with its Krishnasar and Vishansar Lakes nestled in the valley region is a favourite for those looking to trek, hike or simply spend time picnicing by the Sindh River.



KARNATAKA: Karnataka is a land of juxtapositions. Its cities of Mysore and Bangalore are bustling cosmos set against the backdrop of ancient heritage and culture. Numerous dynasties have left their mark across the state, making it a favoured option for history buffs. On the other hand, Karnataka is also home to thriving wildlife with sanctuaries and reserves that are best visited in the cooler months between November and February.

Spot deer, elephants, leopards, tigers and a wide range of birds in the green zones of Karnataka. There are five national parks (Anshi National Park, Bandipur National Park, Bannerughatta National Park, Kudremukh National Park and Nagarhole National Park), 18 wildlife sanctuaries, of which Adichunchanagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is popular for peacocks, Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary are good locations to spot tiger, gaur, sloth bears and Malabar whistling thrush.