Someone has rightly said, “Of all the books in the world, the best and the most memorable stories are found between the pages of your travel tickets.”

This quote perfectly describes how traveling replenishes and rejuvenates our worn-out minds and fills our memory with a multitude of stories and experiences to cherish for a lifetime.

In winters, the frosty mornings and chilled breeze turn most of us into lazy bums and the only routine we wish to follow is – snuggling up in the warm cozy blanket and gobbling on hot soup or a cup of joe. This is what we probably dream of doing day in and day out, isn’t it?

However, other than those people who love to hide beneath the quilt, there are some nomadic friends who can do anything and everything to quench their thirst for wanderlust. Even the cold and harsh winds cannot stop them from discovering the splendid beauty of our country. They are the ones bitten by a travel bug and simply love heading to places where they can enjoy winter to the fullest. If you belong to this group, then this article is certainly written for you.

Travel Tips to Make You a Savviest Traveler

Before you set your foot to discover this multicultural and diverse land, make sure you pay utmost attention to some of the travel tips, which our experts have jotted down for you. Let’s take a read through them:

• Read extensively about the places you want to visit beforehand so that you are aware of its culture, tradition, and local cuisine.
• India holds regions with different climatic conditions. Extreme cold or hot can take a toll on your health. Thus, always plan your trip according to the weather.
• Being a conservative nation, make sure you dress modestly and appropriately so that you can blend with locals easily.
• Get a sim card to make sure you are well connected with your family as in some regions your cell phone might not work.
• Don’t forget to carry medicines instead of confining yourself to a trip because of nausea and dizziness.
• Keep your ID proofs in your bag as you will need them while booking hotel rooms.

Travel Planning Basics You Must Know

• For some, travel planning is uber exciting. First things first, pick a destination, get your leaves approved (a tedious task), prepare an itinerary, book your tickets, plan your accommodation, and book a local cab for sightseeing.
• Planning can be overwhelming and stressful errand as it requires too much thinking. Put your mind at ease and don’t become a bundle of nerves. To avoid last-minute anxieties, make sure you consult a trip organizer. You will find many travel agencies that offer tourism-related services in the best packages.

Best Places to visit in India

Now that you have some wise travel hacks handy, find out the best vacation spots. Here are some breathtaking places to visit in India during winters, which will kindle your travel buff and let you capture the essence of our country, which we are immensely proud of.

Rajasthan

In a world full of modernity, sometimes our soul wants to feel grandeur and royalty, and what could be better than visiting the ‘land of kings?’ from magnificent forts, majestic palaces, sun-kissed sand dunes to beautiful temples, colorful fairs, and camel safari, Rajasthan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, which you can plan to visit during the winter season.

Strolling around the fascinating nooks and crannies of mighty forts in the scorching heat of summers is definitely not a great idea of a vacation. On the contrary, when you explore the attractions of this state in the pleasant weather, then you will surely enjoy listening to the tales of brave battles and majestic history that are enough to leave you spellbound.

This royal state has so much to offer. So, what is stopping you from indulging in traveling planning? If the richness of Rajasthan seems too vast to cover in the handful of approved holidays, then make sure you be the guest of the pink city of Jaipur, the golden city of Jaisalmer, and the city of lakes Udaipur which are very well connected. These glorious cities are enveloped with the magical experience of culture and tradition.

While visiting Jaipur, make sure you witness the opulence of Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar. The major attractions in Jaisalmer are Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, and Gadisar Lake, which is enough to awe-struck you with its charm. Udaipur is a city which casts its spell and mesmerizes its guests by the marvelous City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jagmandir, and Saheliyon-ki-Bari.

Kerala

Kerala holds a plethora of reasons to justify its name. Yes, we all proudly call it – God’s own country. With a moderate climate, this destination is truly a paradise on earth, and if you wish to experience calm & peaceful backwaters and canals, serene beaches, lush green forest safari, adrenaline-pumping boat racing, and scrumptious cuisine, then there is no such place like Kerala.

Don’t miss out on a wonderful opportunity to explore the gushing waterfalls and incredible therapeutic traditions, Ayurvedic spas, and exotic wildlife. If you want to make the most of your winter holidays in the lap of nature, then head straight to this destination in India.  Get ready to share anecdotes of your heavenly experience and give travel tips to help others plan their holiday seamlessly.

Darjeeling 

A trip to this peaceful hill-station should definitely be there on your bucket list. Known for its picturesque surroundings, exhilarating view of towering peaks, rolling hills engulfed in emerald-green tea gardens, monasteries oozing tranquillity, cute toy trains, and mall road shopping, no wonder why Darjeeling – ‘The Queen of Hills’ is swarmed with tourists in winters and makes it a quintessential travel gateway.

Your trip is incomplete without visiting the famous attractions and great sightseeing places, which are Tiger Hill, Peace Pagoda, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park,  Happy Valley Tea Estate, Rock Garden, Ghoom Monastery. Just pack your bag with woolens and get ready to walk around the city under the stars.

Himachal Pradesh

Winter is unquestionably the most preferred season to explore this ‘land of snow.’ If you want to escape the daily drudgery of life and wish to add scenic beauty of valleys, breathtaking snow-capped mountains, adventure sports, and pristine snowfalls to your memory, then Himachal is the must-visit place which can help you find much-needed respite from the hustle-bustle of modern life.

As Himachal Pradesh is home to some very famous hill stations, it has always been on the traveling list of backpackers with itchy feet. Those who have a strong affinity towards Himalayan ranges can definitely plan an unforgettable vacation in any of these hill stations- Shimla which serves a right amalgamation of Indian glory and British elegance, Manali, Kullu, Dharamshala, Kasauli, Dalhousie, and the list goes on. Go paragliding, trekking, ice skating, and embrace winters as no one else could ever have.

Jammu & Kashmir

Let your friends gush about their recent Switzerland trip and flaunt their clicks on social media. Who needs to go to Switzerland to get covered in pearl-like snowflakes? Instead, visit this ‘Heaven on Earth’ to witness the exceptional beauty of lands with a white carpet of snow.

It’s no exaggeration to say that once you step in Kashmir, those spectacular views make it difficult for you to come back home. From the incredible Tulip garden and snowy peaks of Gulmarg and Sonamarg to luxury houseboats at Dal Lake, Kashmir has it all for those who love to hit by freezing winds in winters.

To experience the real jewel in the crown of Kashmir, don’t forget to visit Pahalgam, which is called the Switzerland of India. This place with a majestic panoramic view of wondrous mountains, beautiful meadows, and lovely pine trees is enough to enchant you.

Andaman Islands

You can never go wrong with planning a vacay to this leading beach destination of Asia. Being home to gorgeous golden beaches like Radhanagar, exotic marine life, historical monuments, pretty cottages, sparkling blue waters, and smooth sand, Andaman is the most captivating destination which is often jam-packed with tourists.

The most striking destinations which you cannot afford to miss are Cellular Jail, Havelock Island, Jolly Buoy Island, Neil Island, and so on. Besides basking in the glory of sunny skies, you can satiate your adventure bug by trying spunky outdoor activities and water sports like Snorkelling, Scuba Diving, Jet Skiing, Speed Boating, Under Sea Walking, and whatnot.

Without further ado, book your tickets to this awe-inspiring travel destination which will definitely make your holiday absolutely unforgettable. Though it offers an ever-welcoming climate, winter is the best season to discover the secrets of Andaman.

Nainital

If you are in the quest for a destination blessed with the alluring sight of the mighty Himalayan range, exceptional scenic beauty, lush green valley view of the hills, and placid lakes, gift yourself a trip to this gorgeous hill station.

Nestled in the foothills of Himalayas, it is one of the best places to visit in India during winters. Nainital defines the abundant beauty of lakes surrounded by snow-covered peaks. If you’ve made up your mind to book your tickets for Nainital, then complete your visit by shopping on mall road, exploring Jim Corbett National Park to witness one of the most famous wildlife reserves of India, and last but not least, boating and yachting activity in Naini Lake.

Agra

Why would anyone deny to see the Taj Mahal, which is a symbol of love? Being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, this city oozes out architecture exquisiteness, profound Indian history, cultural heritage, and never fails to hypnotize visitors with its extraordinary charm and elegance. It’s time to soak in the beauty of the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh, and Agra Fort which are counted among memorable masterpieces.

Gujarat

Gujrat is undoubtedly a dream destination for many travelers who deep down inside wish to treat their souls with a soothing view of the largest salt desert in the world. Yes, we are talking about the Great Rann of Kutch. Adding joy to your winter travel plans, Kutch is also loved for Rann Utsav which is celebrated with immense pleasure with folk dances and music, decorated stalls of traditional art and handicrafts, ornaments, and Bandhni Sarees. For an overall fascinating experience, don’t forget to visit Gir National Park- wildlife sanctuary and Somnath temple.

Ooty

As cliché as it may sound, but the truth is that Ooty has something splendid for every avid traveler. A travel planning for Ooty in winters is a wise decision to make as this is the season that is pleasant enough to go hiking up to Dolphin’s Nose without feeling totally exhausted.

You can even try taking a dip in spine-chilling Catherine waterfall if you feel like doing something adventurous. Besides this, do not miss taking a wonderful ride on centuries-old Nilgiri Mountain Toy Train which will bring back the adorable memories of your childhood.  It is a perfect choice for a family getaway as the surreal views offered here will take all your stress away.

Kanyakumari

The southernmost point of India, Kanyakumari has always been on the list of tourists for whom gazing at sunrise and sunset is the most captivating sight of the day. Vivekananda Rock flanked by mighty ocean serves a spectacular view which you can never find in the midst of modern cities.

Bodhgaya

This religious site is the best pick if you are in search of some peace and solace in life. Bodhgaya is one of the holiest cities of Buddhist faith which is known to be the spot where Lord Buddha attained Nirvana or spiritual enlightenment and thereafter became Buddha. The Mahabodhi temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002, which made this place a sacred sanctuary. This winter, be spiritual and get ready to witness a magical transformation.

Kaziranga National Park

The goodness of India not only lies in the snow-capped mountains, pristine cascades, waterfalls, royal palaces, historical monuments, and vast oceans but also in the wildlife marvels preserved in Kaziranga National Park.

Situated in Assam, this tourist destination is also listed as a UNESCO world heritage site and is globally popular for being home of one-horned rhinoceros, and other mammals like elephants, tigers, panthers, and uncountable species of birds. Show your love and care for animals this winter!

Goa

While thinking of Goa, suddenly two things pop in your head. One is beaches and the other is partying late at night with a bottle of Feni, isn’t it? From sunbathing at the beach, and adventurous water sports to scooter riders and flea markets, Goa has it all to enrich your travel experience.

Whether you are a party animal or someone who loves to quietly feel the waves at a sandy beach, visit this place in winters to enjoy every mood. Plus, you will get to let your hair down in Goa Carnivals and music festivals. However, make sure you don’t have a shoe-string budget to visit Goa in winters as over-prized hotels and homestays might put a strain on your pocket. So, get your bookings done well in advance.

It’s time to activate your holiday mode and plan a vacation to make your winter a season to remember forever.

Happy Holidays!