Looking for escape from chilling cold or respite from the scorching sun? Our list of top places to visit in India in winter is for those looking for warm weather escape as well as for those looking to enjoy the snow and cooler climes.

Winter heralds the beginning of the peak season for tourism in India. Whereas the tropical beach destinations like Goa become top places to visit in December in India; Kerala and Tamil Nadu are popular tourist places to visit in January and February in India. Up north snowfall in destinations in Himachal, Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir makes Gulmarg, Shimla and Auli as top ski destinations in India from November till early March; Rajasthan, Delhi and Madhya Pradesh along with golden triangle and Bodhgaya are best visited from November till March.

Best Places to Visit in India in Winter

1. Kerala

2. Goa

3. Varanasi

4. Tamil Nadu

5. Auli

6. Rann of Kutch

7. Kashmir

8. Rajasthan

9. Andaman

10. Jim Corbett

11. Lakshadweep

12. Kullu Manali

13. Shimla

14. Dharamsala and Mcleodganj

15. Delhi

16. Khajuraho & Orchha

17. Gujarat

18. Nagaland

19. Lucknow

20. Aurangabad

21. Ahmedabad

22. Gangtok

23. Waynad

24. Hyderabad

25. Nainital

26. Jaisalmer

27. Agra

28. Alleppey

29. Mumbai

30. Pondicherry

And while you are surfing for best winter holiday, did you know that it is also the high time for honeymoons in India. So, if you are looking for the same, think of this post also as a list of some of the best places to go for honeymoon in India in winter or check out this one.

So here goes our list of top 30 places to visit in India in winter that include months of October, November, December, January and February and to some extent March in no particular order.

Kerala: God's own Country

A treat for all seasons, it’s when the monsoon departs that Kerala true natural splendor reaches its zenith. Western Ghats and brackish lagoons or the backwaters bestow a unique charm on Kerala's appeal.

You name it and Kerala has it: backwaters, beaches, spice gardens, tea plantations, Ayurveda, ecotourism and abundant wildlife. That's why we have chosen Kerala as one of the top winter holiday destinations in India.

For beach lovers its the Kovalam and Varkala or even Marari; for backwaters its Alapuzza, Kollam, Kumarakom and Vembanad lake. Then there is Munnar's lush tea plantation and salubrious weather.

If you are in for wildlife there is a bird sanctuary in Kumarakom, tiger reserve in Periyar and the world's most bio diverse ecosystem Silent Valley National Park which is home to the largest population of Lion-tailed macaque.

Kerala also happens to be the top destination in India for health and rejuvenation. You could find a number of authentic and world class Ayurveda center that offer therapeutic massages and treatments based on 3000 years old science of healing: Ayurveda. In fact, Kerala is one of the top destinations for authentic Ayurveda in India

Goa: Susegado and Siesta

Travelers often find it impossible to believe that Goa, a tiny emerald ensconced between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghat, is a part of India.

Winter is the time when the tiny emerald that is Goa is teeming with visitors. Renowned as one of the finest beach destinations in the world, Goa is very unlike the rest of the India. Its cosmopolitan culture, eclectic cuisine, vibrant nightlife and vast stretches of sandy beaches make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in India.

Visit the city in winters and join in the festivities in the city. With the arrival of Christmas and New Year, Goa is at her vibrant best. Parties, music and scrumptious cuisines along with cultural events make it the high time to visit Goa in winter especially from November till February.

Since winter also herald the wedding season in India, this is the time when newlyweds visit Goa for honeymoon. Couples could enjoy their honeymoon at some of the finest luxury hotels in Goa that boast of private beaches. Other activities could include water sport, wildlife and sussegado on Goa’s famed beaches.

For families too there is much to do in Goa in winters. Beaches, waterfalls, wildlife and adventure sports are some of the top things to do in Goa along with visit to World Heritage churches and cathedrals and evening river cruises.

Winter also rocks as it is the time for Christmas and New Year in Goa and people of Goa celebrate both these occasion with great gusto.

If you are planning your trip to Goa during winter, keep in mind that it is the peak season for tourism and hotels and accommodations - whether 3 stars or 5 stars - fill up in advance and even sold out during December-January. It’s always wise to book your winter holiday packages in Goa in advance so that you don’t have to compromise with your holiday.

Varanasi: Foundations of Faith

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi is considered the holiest Hindu city. It is believed that here the supreme Hindu god Bramha began the creation of the universe. This major pilgrimage town is thronged by devotees throughout the year who come looking here to take a dip in the Holy Ganges and wash away their sins or to appease and free the souls of their ancestors from cycle of death and birth.

Today the most iconic symbol of Varanasi is the evening arti performed at the Dashwamedh Ghat which is a highly choreographed performance. Varanasi is also known for its secular fervor. Many saints and poets of India are associated with this city including Kabir and Tulsidas. However a word of caution if you are traveling here. The city is chaotic is to say the least and the city extends from the ghats of Ganges in a maze of alleyways which are rather crowded and too narrow for traffic.

Apart from Monsoon, the city could be visited anytime of the year but as with other destinations in North Indian plains, winter is the best time to visit the city which is considered beating heart of Hinduism. The cooler clime and absence of humidity makes Varanasi one of the best places to visit in India in January.

Tamil Nadu: Tale of Temples

With over 3300 temples, Tamil Nadu truly is the cradle of the Dravidian culture. No wonder it attracts the second highest footfalls of overseas tourists in India. Several of the magnificent temples of Tamil Nadu have been inscribed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO that includes the Great Living Chola Temples, Group of Monuments in Mahabalipuram and the Nilgiri Mountain Railways.

There are so many things to do in Tamil Nadu for the activities include tours to some of the finest beaches down southern coast, temples, monuments and hill stations. The most popular hill station in Tamil Nadu and one of the top places for honeymoon in South India is Ooty which is also referred to as the Queen of the Hills in South.

However, if you are tired of the rush of Ooty, try out the more relaxed, soothing and tranquil sister hill station Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu. Pretty lake, awe inspiring sun set points and verdant landscape makes it one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in South India.

Best time to visit

The climate of Tamil Nadu is tropical which means there is very less variation in temperature in winter or summer. The rainy season arrives with North East Monsoon and hill stations such as Ooty and Kodaikanal are at their verdant best. April and May are the hottest with mercury soaring to above 40 degree Celsius. Average temperature remains close to 30 °C during the month of November till February and that is why we have included Tamil Nadu in our list of best places to visit in India in winter especially during months of January and February.

How to reach

Tamil Nadu is well connected to its neighboring state by road. Several state transport bus as well as deluxe bus services like Volvo operates between major South Indian Cities to destinations in Tamil Nadu.

By Air

Meenambakkam Airport in the capital city Chennai is connected internationally via major airliners. Tiruchirapalli (Trichy) is connected via air from Sri Lanka as well. Other airport in Tamil Nadu only caters to domestic airlines.

By Rail

Tamil Nadu is connected to all the major cities of India via rail. The major rail heads from tourism point of view are Chennai, Trichy, Madurai and Coimbatore.

Auli: Carpet of Snow

India’s premier ski resort destination, Auli in Uttarakhand is located at an average altitude of 2800 meters in the Chamoli district. Offering awe inspiring views of the Himalayas and covered in coniferous forest and slopes dotted with oak, apple orchard and deodar trees, Auli during winters becomes India’s hottest ski destination.

Auli is considered to be one of the best places to visit in India in January and February if you are an adventure enthusiast looking for fun in snow and skiing activities. Every year from January till March, several national and international ski festivals are arranges in Auli.

If you are a novice or someone looking to learn skiing, GMVN arranges 7-14 days skiing courses at Auli. An 800 meter long chair lift and a 500 meter ski lift links the lower slopes of Auli to the upper one from where ski professional embark on an adrenaline rushing dash down the enthralling slopes covered in sheet of snow.

Rann of Kutch: An Ode to Vast Nothingness

Rann of Kutch in Gujarat is the largest salt desert in the world. Vast expanse of white nothingness over 100 miles in length and 200 miles in breadth, Rann of Kutch is sweltering patch of vast nothingness that interestingly remain submerged under water during monsoon season in India.

Dhorado, located 86 kilometers from Bhuj is the nearest town located on the edge of the Rann of Kutch. Most of the good quality accommodation are found in Dhorado. In fact the state tourism department is developing Dhorado as the gateway to the Rann of Kutch. The tourist season in Kutch runs from late October till March. The best time to visit this region is the month of December when the Rann Utsav is in full swing.

Every year, Gujarat Tourism organizes Rann Utsav which begins in December and last till March. The festival is celebrated on the grandest scale on the full moon night in December. Scores of luxury tents are set up in Dhorado along with food stalls and arcades for handicrafts and cultural performances. Dance, music, festivities and cultural celebrations of the region are performed all over the district. The full moon safari ride is one of the most surreal experience one can have in the vast salt desert of the Runn of Kutch during this time of the year.

Kashmir: Paradise on Earth

Tourism is back in Kashmir making it once again the most preferred honeymoon destinations in India. People go to Kashmir for even during summer, but its the winter time when the combination of snow capped mountains and lush valleys makes it the top honeymoon destination in India.

Kashmir, fondly referred to as the “paradise on earth”, offers scintillating natural beauty. A mesmerizing jewel in the crown of Himalayas, Kashmir is renowned for its lush Mughal Gardens, glittering Dal Lake and picturesque environs.

Some of the most popular destinations in Kashmir include Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Srinagar and Sonamarg.You can see many a newly married couples sailing the Dal Lake in shikaras holding hands in Srinagar or throwing snow balls at each other or making snowmen in Gulmarg and swinging in each other arms as would the newly engaged couple in a Bollywood movie in Pahalgam.

Mughal Gardens in Srinagar are also a major draw among tourists from all part of the world, whereas the Gondola Ride in Gulmarg is favorite activity of couples and families. Adventure enthusiasts from around the globe also head to Gulmarg for excellent skiing opportunity and world class facilities. From December till April is best time for skiing and snow adventure in Gulmarg. In fact the first ever National Winter Games of India was held in Gulmarg Ski Resort between January and February in 1998.

If you are worried about the condition of tourism in Kashmir after the recent floods, we would recommend that you go through this post on Tourism in Kashmir after September 2014 Floods.

Rajasthan: Land of Maharajas

An amazing concoction of colors, royalty, tradition and romance, Rajasthan is a favorite haunt of overseas tourists in India. There is so much to see and do in Rajasthan that even seasoned travelers find it hard to pick and choose from the plenty of options at hand.

Maharajas held sway in Rajputana a century ago. Although very, they were great patrons of art and culture. All their idiosyncrasies as well as respect for tradition and art are today evident in numerous mighty fortresses, scintillating palaces, traditional dance and arts.

The capital Jaipur is the most popular place, visited by millions every year. It is closely followed my major tourist places such as Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Ranthambore and Bikaner.

For the lovers of heritage Bundi is a great escape during winters whereas the honeymooners prefer it at the Mount Abu which is the only hill station in the desert state. Pushkar is yet another specialty escape where scores of foreign visitors also pay visit throughout the year.

Our honeymoon tips for people looking for winter destinations in India is to head for the sand dunes in Jaisalmer or Bikaner. Imagine the romance in the ambiance as you sit by the campfire holding each others hand gazing at starlit sky.

Palace which have been turned into heritage hotels are also a big draw when it comes to winter vacations in India. Whereas the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur has been adjudged the best romantic hotel in India, nearby Devigarh by Lebua is a heritage cum boutique hotel which attracts who's who in the world by virtue of its architectural appeal.

If you happen to be visiting Bikaner and want to get a taste of royalty as did Maharajas of yore, then we'd like to recommend Gajner Palace in Bikaner.

Andaman Island: The Deep Blue Sea

Recently opened up for tourism, the pristine islands of Andaman and Nicobar are a veritable oasis for tourists and naturalists alike. If you are looking for honeymoon destinations in India in winter, Andaman and Nicobar group of islands are strong contenders in the race.

The islands of Andaman and Nicobar are hilly in places fringed with coconut palm, covered with tropical jungle and interspersed with flat stretches of crescent shaped beaches offering a serene retreat to the travelers.

For those interested in water sports, snorkeling and scuba diving, Andaman is one of the best place in India to go to. Try Barefoot at Havelock for the best experience of snorkeling and also for once in a lifetime experience of doiving with the lone swimming elephant of Andaman named Rajan.

Enjoy serene moments with your spouse or family or have frolic with kids at the beaches. The beaches and islands of Andamans are the most pristine ones in India. The tropical climate makes it one of the best places in India to visit in winters.

Jim Corbett: Lure of the Jungle

Just as the monsoon retreats, Jim Corbett open its door to the visitors to experience the diversity of fauna and postcard perfect landscape, lush forest cover and gurgling water streams. Jim Corbett National Park is the first national park to be established in Asia. There are several zones where jeep safaris are allowed to sight the wildlife. Other than jeep safaris, you can also do elephant safari in Jim Corbett to rendezvous with tigers from close proximity.

Besides mammals which include tigers, elephants, Asiatic Black Bear, Sloth Bear, Barking Deer, otters and more. Yet another appeal of Jim Corbett is the wide variety of bird species that could be spotted here making it one of the best places for bird watching in India. Over 600 species of birds have been recorded inside this park including great pied hornbill, white-backed vulture and Pallas fish eagle.

With extreme winter not setting yet, Jim Corbett becomes one of the best places to visit in India in October and March if you are a wildlife enthusiast. Make sure that you get your accommodation in Dhikala range where the chances of tiger spotting are maximum.

Lakshadweep: Romance of White Sandy Beaches

Lakshadweep is one of the world’s most spectacular tropical island systems. 32 sq. km of land spread over 36 islands surrounded by 4200 sq. km of lagoon rich in marine wealth. This

Dotted with swaying coconut groves, turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, friendly hospitality and salubrious climatic conditions, Lakshadweep is fast becoming a global beach destination in India. This pristine island is ideal for honeymoon, marine exploration and water sports.

Kullu Manali: Himalayan Hinterlands

If you are looking for honeymoon destination in India during winters, then look no further. Kullu and Manali offer one of the best romantic setting to kindle the romance.

Whereas Kullu is relatively low lying area with lush natural surroundings, Manali is a place where couples could enjoy adventure sports and frolic in snow.

Then there are ancient temples, opportunity for paragliding etc and picturesque ambiance that makes Manali a favored destination even during winters.

Honeymooners in Manali also prefer to head for Rohtang Pass nearby where there's ample opportunity for snow sports.

Kullu is one of the best places in India to visit in October as the Dussehra festivities add to the fun of holiday. To experience snowfall, Manali is one of the top places to visit in in November, December and January.

Shimla: Queen of Hills

A short ride from Delhi, Shimla is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in India during summers as well as winters. The major pull factors are the altitude, ambiance and bearable snow fall and cool weather. In Shimla even if you do nothing, you have done all that you have come for.

Considered one of the best hill stations in India, Shimla could be visited anytime of the year. Winters are fun in Shimla as there's snowfall which add to the romantic appeal of the place. It also gets bit cold which keeps of the crowd making it the best time and one o the best places for honeymoon in India with some sense of privacy and thrill and adventure of snow.

The Mall Road in Shimla is packed with couples during winters. Adventure enthusiasts also head to Shimla for hiking activities which is one of the things to do in here. Then there are people who visit Shimla for its colonial charm and to explore the seamless blend of tradition and modernity.

The luxe lovers visit Shimla for the award winning Wildflower Hall located at Mashobara. One of the finest luxury hotels and spa destinations in India, Wildflower Hall is one of the best heritage hotels in India. The most alluring factor is that this hotel is located in Himalayas and offer breathtaking views and serene escape and one of its king luxury in the lap of Himalayas.

Dharamsala and Mcleodganj

Nestled in the Dauladhar range of Himalaya, Dharamsala is renowned as the seat of Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in Exile. A little ahead of Dharamsala is McLeodganj at a bit higher altitude and a different world altogether. Dharamsala and Mcleodganj are especially popular among the foreign tourists as one of the top places for volunteering in India.

As soon as you arrive in McLeodganj, everything changes. The weather, ambience, the crowd and the culture. McLeodganj is thronged by Lamas, foreigners both resident and visitors and tourists from India.

The snowcapped mountain paks of Dauladhar creates breathtaking scenery and there are plenty of hiking trails that begins with McLeodganj as the base.With increasing popularity, McLeodganj has become touristy these days but is a very good option as a winter holiday destination in India.

Lesser people visit during winter. And you may try staying at Naddi or Dharamkot for serenity and proximity to nature. This 2 relatively unknown places are the haven for honeymooners looking to have a memorable beginning of their married life.

If you are traveling to Dharamsala in winter, why not try the hike to Triund and spend the night in the camps surrounded by snow. We promise that the first rays of sun would leave you with indelible memories.

Winter could be fun any where in Himachal Pradesh as there so many places to visit and numerous things to do. Check out our travel tips on things to do in Himachal Pradesh.

Delhi: A Tale of Two Cities

Sprinkled with spectacular monuments, lush gardens and an array of architectural marvels, New Delhi is best visited during winters.

Delhi also houses 3 fascinating World Heritage Sites: Humayun’s Tomb, Red Fort and Qutb Minar Group of Monuments. A city of contrast, Delhi’s diversity manifests itself in the old world charm of the walled city and modern Lutyen’s Delhi.

Recently constructed Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple are spectacular monuments high on the list of to do things in Delhi.

Delhi is also known for some of the top hotels by international brands which offer great venue for business as well as a refuge from the din of the city to let you rejuvenate. So if you are looking for that oomp factor and exclusivity, here are our recommended 5 best luxury hotels in Delhi.

Khajuraho and Orchha

Inscribed by UNESCO as World Heritage Site, Khajuraho Group of Monuments are recognized across the globe for their carved temples. The carvings and sculptures are considered to represent the motif of Kamasutra, the legendary Indian text on consummation.

However the erotic carvings are just the outward appearance as the inside depicts yet another world of spirituality and abstinence. It is believed that the temple architecture represents the phases of life and that one should have all the worldly pleasure before he could be wise to abdicate them and step into a more enlightened state and be one with god...something that is very close to how Siddhartha become Buddha.

Nearby, Orchha is a veritable pastoral delight. The claim to fame of this tiny little hamlet in Madhya Pradesh is temple spires and chattris (cenotaphs) along with the exquisitely carved Jahangir Mahal, a specimen of finest art of Bundela paintings.

Gujarat: Cultural Capital of India

Gujarat is yet another place in India which is best to travel during winters. What makes Gujarat special as a tourist destination in India is its rich heritage and culture. An array of archaeological sites, baolis or vavs, prominent temples, tribes, Great Runn of Kutch and one and the only Gir National Park that is home to Asiatic Lions and more makes Gujarat one of the most desirable places to visit in India in winter.

To have the best experience of holiday in Gujarat we recommend that you visit this cultural capital of India during the great Runn Mahaotsav to catch a glimpse of the state in its microcosm.

One of the major draws of Gujarat are some of the most prominent Hindu temples that include Somanath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas revering lord Shiva and the Dwarkadhish Temple which is one of the 4 revered Hindu shrines encompassed during Char Dham Yatra. The best time for temple and pilgrimage tours in Gujarat is from November till February when the weather is ideal to explore the temples and religious sites which involve some physical activity in outdoors.

Nagaland: Tribal Treasure Trove

The wild wild east of India, Nagaland is one of the most unspoiled places in India where you could still encounter tribes living exotically as could only be found in the archives of National Geographic. It was not a long time back that the warring tribesmen of Nagaland kept intruders at bay from encroaching into their territory.

Nagaland of today is hardly its savage self but it is still a place of primeval splendor with its rolling hills and lush valleys. The tribes of Nagaland celebrate Hornbill festival with great gusto each year which is celebrated at Kisama Heritage Village which is located 12 kilometers away from capital Kohima. That is one of the reasons why we recommend Nagaland as one of top places to visit in India in December.

Lucknow: City of Nawabs and Shabab

Home of the Nawabs of the Oudh (Awadh), Lucknow is renowned for its sumptuous cuisines, dance and music, thanks to the Nawabs who were great patron of art. An important political center for a long time Lucknow is dotted with Raj era building some stunning mausoleums. But above all the reason you should visit Lucknow is to witness firsthand the city’s reputation as the land of ‘Nawabs, Kebabs, Adaab (respect) and shabab (beauty).’

One of the reasons to visit Lucknow at this time of the year is to attend the Lucknow Mahotsav, a cultural extravaganza that celebrates the ‘tezjib’ and nawabi cuisine of the region, the reason why we recommend Lucknow as one of the best places to visit in India in November December.

Aurangabad: Rock of Ages

Aurangabad is the base to travel to 2 of the finest specimens of ancient Indian architecture: Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves. This rock cut caves stand testimony to the harmony of Buddhism, Jainism and Hindu religion. Carved out of rocks entirely using hammers and chisels, these caves are now recognized as World Heritage Site by UNESCO for their cultural significance.

Whereas the caves of Ajanta are mainly Buddhist depicting the life of Buddha and Jataka tales, the caves of Ellora consist of Buddhist, Jain as well as Hindu temples. Whereas the Ajanta caves are renowned for their rock painting, Ellora Caves are greatly admired for their exquisitely carved architecture. One of the reasons we would recommend Aurangabad as one of the best places to visit in India in February and March is the fact that the weather is at its most favorable at this time of the year and with the spring in the offing, the landscape is at its charming best.

Ahmedabad: Land of Mahatma

Best known for Sabarmati Ashram and its association with Mahatma Gandhi, Ahmedabad is a modern city still redolent with its cultural heritage. Delectable Gujarati cuisine, textiles and festivals are the major draws of this rapidly growing city. Things to do in Ahmedabad include visits to several mosques and temples which are fine specimens of Indo Islamic architecture. However the top things do in Ahmedabad is definitely a visit to Sabarmati ashram to get a peek into the times and life of Mahatma Gandhi.

The grand celebrations associated with Uttarayan or the International Kite Festival makes Ahmedabad one of the best places to visit in India in January for cultural interactions.

Gangtok: A Pastoral Retreat

Sitting atop the Shivalik hills of the eastern Himalayan ranges, Gangtok gets its mystic charm released in the months when the sun goes on a holiday. At first, the chill can make you doubt your decision to land at this place during such a time of the year. But in no time, the misty sight of the snowcapped mountains rising high above the panoramas, and the cold, raw Himalayan wind will find out the lost adventurer from inside you. Suddenly, the forest covered valleys and nature trails, all covered in blankets of fog and snow, would be friendlies. Snow trekking and skiing would be the next couple of things you will find yourself actively indulged into.

Nainital: The Land of Lakes

If you happen to travel to Nainital, and that too at the time of winters, you dare would not ask for more. A moment to discover yourself, whether it is by spending a solitary time with your special one as the snowflakes gently fall on both of you, or by breathing high in the adrenaline rush of the snow adventure sports, winters are the exceptions, Nainital can make up for you. And you need not worry about the access you can have at that time, as Nainital is amongst the few places in India which is open in every direction throughout the year (Major tourist destinations remain open during winters).

Wayanad: A Rustic Oasis

For some, winters are the getaways to Himalayas, while others prefer going down south. However, the idea remains the same; nature’s communion. If winter chills are not the thing for you, try the pleasing temperatures of Wayanad. Unlike the other hill stations of South India, Wayanad remains cool and comfortable throughout the year; even during the prime winters. Many of the travelers rate Wayanad as the most beautiful and fantastically unspoiled. And why would not they? The hill station has landscapes combined with mountain sceneries, coffee plantations that are as fresh and alive as the taste they brew, and this is all dictated by a remote ambience.

The city that was once ruled by the Nizams, Hyderabad has a lot to offer. Its heritage and culture is so vibrant, the city has become a tourist hub in the southern part of India. However, the cacophony of this urban world would get on to your nerve with the summer heat being so stubborn here. Thus, make your plans of exploring its citylights and the thought of gorging on that mind blowing biryani, scheduled for the winter months. Being down south, Hyderabad has comfortable and pleasing winters with no extreme temperature readings.

Jaisalmer: Of Dunes and Kingdoms

Fused in the dusty, golden hues of its surroundings is this astonishing city of Jaisalmer. Also known as the “Golden City of India”, Jaisalmer is largely identified with the majestic Fort, rising out of desert, almost camouflaging with the surrounding color, with huge walls and massive battlements. The Fort, overlooking the main city still provides residence to the majority of old families of the town. Inside, the colorful stalls trading cultural and traditional wares straddles along its winding, twisting lanes. Behind the veiled layers of modernity, one can explore old houses, magnificent havelis and a cultural legacy that is quintessentially Rajput and Rajasthani. Don’t forget to enjoy the awesomely entertaining camel safaris that is one of the highlights for tourists here and exploring the vast expanse of Thar with its enticing panoramic sights of dunes and striking barrenness and absence of life that is worth experiencing. Due to excruciating heat during the summers, the best time to pay a visit to Jaisalmer is between October and March when the weather is much more bearable for the sake of wandering and sightseeing.

Agra: The City of Love

Home to one of the ‘Seven Modern Wonders of the World’ Taj Mahal, Agra needs no introduction. Home to some of the greatest Mughal architectural marvels, Agra is one of the most visited tourist places in India. It is thronged by tourists round the year and who’s who around the globe make it a point to visit Taj Mahal when they visit India. The reason why we have included Agra as one of the top places to visit in India in November December or for that matter entire winter season is that, when you visit Taj Mahal, you are not allowed to wear shoes on the white marble. During the scorching summer the white marble gets too hot and makes it uncomfortable to walk on the floor. During winter it is very comfortable to do the sightseeing tour of both Taj Mahal and the Agra Red Fort.

Alleppey: The Land of Backwaters

The heart of Kerala backwaters, Alleppey is one of the favored honeymoon destinations in India. With its palm-fringed backwaters, rustic charm and lesser crowd, Alleppey or Alappuza is a picture perfect winter holiday destination in India. Although, this backwater destination could be visited throughout the year, we recommend this as one of the top places to visit in India in December January beacause it is rather less crowded than its popular counterparts Kovalam, Kochi and nearby Goa, and you could also participate in the 10 days Mullakal Chirap festivals which is held in the month of December.

Mumbai: Places to Visit in India in December & January

Variously dubbed as the "City of Dreams" and “Maximum City”, Mumbai is a hearty mix of high rises, heritage buildings, millionaires and slum dwellers. One of the most vibrant and open cities of India, Mumbai is a global tourism hotspot. From its many beaches, vibrant nightlife to the who’s who of Indian industries and bubbly Bollywood, Mumbai is one of the top places to visit in India in December and January due to its favorable weather. An array of World Heritage Sites, chic markets, plush hotels and nearby excursions to Elephanta, Lonavala, Pune, Nashik, Alibaugh, Goa and Tarkarli makes Mumbai your best bet this this winter.

Pondicherry: Places to Visit in India in December & January

Pondicherry or Puducherry as it is now known was the capital of French in India at the height of their colonial days. A wonderful oasis of trendy buildings and curious neighborhoods and alleys, the numerous streets, houses and mansions exhibits a unique and charming elegance that wonderfully showcases the cultural and architectural intercourse of France and India. Although the new town has considerable Tamil influence, most of the visitors are moved by the area's mesmerizing ambience which is also manifested in its elegant buildings like churches, townhouses and public buildings that have an enchanting appeal. During December, the town attracts a large number of visitors, primarily due to the cool and suitable climate that assists in sightseeing and exploration. Also another major attraction of Pondicherry is the Aurobindo Ashram and its branch, located just outside Auroville that pulls a number of visitors from across the world.