NNamaste ! India is Incredible ! India is wow !
We live in the most beautiful country. From the mighty Himalayas to the
tiny hillocks, from the vastness of the ocean to the vivid backwaters,
from snow flakes to sand dunes, we have it all. People all over the
world travel to our country not just because, it is economical but
because it is a country with landscapes, cultures and great food. India is an enigma.
Traveling in India exposes you and your family to many experiences, rejuvenates you and definitely changes you as a person. As winter and vacations are nearing, we are all looking for that perfect getaway to plan. Here are the best 10 places to travel in India this winter. Pick your choice and pack your bags!
1. Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Situated at a distance of 1700 km from the mainland, these 300 odd islands are known for their palm-lined white-sand beaches, mangroves and tropical rain forests. Andaman hosts some of the best beaches in the world, which are as pristine as possible. The beautiful journey begins even before you land with the stunning views of the islands from 30,000 ft above. All the beaches are aqua coloured are so clean that you will forget about your troubles.
What to do?
Explore the Southern Andaman, take a boat ride to the mangrove forests in Baratang, walk on the thin strip of sand separating Ross and Smith islands, go on the inexpensive cruise ride to Havelock (Swaraj Island), scuba dive at the Nemo reef, go glass boat riding and see the corals, see the sun set in Radhanagar beach, ride a bicycle and explore Neil island (Shaheed Island).
2. Arunachal Pradesh
Unravel the magic of North East this winter. Comprising of eight Indian states – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura – it still remains one of the lesser explored places by our population. Enclosing the best of thick forests, snow-capped mountains, immaculate valleys, glimmering lakes, ancient monasteries and cascading waterfalls, North East feels mystical. This is a place you can travel to either solo or with loved ones.
What to do?
Trek some of the highest snow capped peaks, see the sunrise behind the mighty Kanchenjunga, take a cable car ride at Tsomgo Lake, visit the Indo-China border at Nathu La Pass, visit the wettest place on earth – Cherrapunjee and Mawsynram, walk on the living root bridges and ride the silk route.
3. Karnataka
Karnataka is one of the favourite destinations among trekkers because of its geomorphic terrain which is perfect for adventure. Trekking on these trails amidst splendid natural beauty is the perfect way of rejuvenating. Karnataka is not only famous for treks but also for its untouched beaches, hill stations, palaces, breathtaking train routes and the ancient empires. The weather is also extremely pleasant throughout the year making it a perfect vacation state.
What to do?
Experience royalty at Mysore and Bangalore palaces, sip coffee in the Scotland of India (Coorg), trek in the hills of Chikmangalur, take a train ride to Sakleshpur, see the beauty of Dhudhsagar falls, lay back in Gokarna and dip in the beaches of Mangalore.
4. Rajasthan
The word Rajasthan is a synonym for vivid culture, grand palaces, magnificent forts and history itself. This "Land of Kings" is one of the most visited states in India. It has a city of lakes, pink and blue city, ghost towns, wind palace, arid region of rolling sand hills, a golden city, Bikaneri bhujia, remarkable architecture, mouth watering delicacies, tribal villages, tiger reserves, pilgrimage sites and colourful festivals. Be teleported and witness the grandeur, royalty and deeply routed heritage.
What to do?
Experience sunrise in Sam Sand Dunes, sunset from Nahargarh fort, night view of Jodhpur, savor Daal Bhaati for breakfast, visit as many palaces as you can, pass through the deserted ghost village and zip line across Mehrangarh fort.
5. Goa
You
can select the party destination of India this winter. Drive to Goa or
fly down, either way the excitement cannot be contained. If you seek
serenity and tranquillity, Margao is the place to be. Just 2 km away
from Colva beach, Benaulim has amazing shacks and restaurants. You can
experience the laid-back enchanting beaches, silver sands, luxurious
accommodation and parties. Goa is for all seasons and no reasons.
What to do?
Stay at Benaulim beach, indulge in adventure water sports, drink beer all day long, ride from North to South Goa, go on boat rides to see the Dolphins or go on exploring the lesser visited mid Goa on cycle.
6. Kerala
Kerala is where nature creates spectacles with beauty and altitude. This Indian state is a home for many forests, waterfalls, dams, wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, hiking trails and spice gardens. Kerala is hands down one of the most visited state in South India. It hosts a slender 600 km strip of the Arabian coast and has an awe inspiring history. It is a home away from home.
What to do?
Stay on a boat house in Allepy, go boat riding in the backwaters, sip tea in the hillocks of Munnar, walk on the dams in Idukki, bike ride on the curves of the hills, see the sun rise in Kochi, revive at the beaches of Varkala and go hiking for a splendid view.
7. Himachal Pradesh
The Devbhoomi that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, the land that hosts some of the highest peaks in India where every mountain is to be worshipped and every town is to be experienced. This diverse state with mesmerizing lakes and holy rivers satisfies the need of different kinds of travellers and tourists. Himachal is one of the most visited states in the North. One visit is not enough to enjoy everything that it has to offer.
What to do?
Experience the snow in Shimla, shopping in Manali, the rugged mountains of Spiti, the spirituality of the monasteries, paragliding in Solang Valley, lay back and relax in Kasol and watch a Tibetan opera in Dharamsala.
8. Gujarat
The westernmost state of India is unfairly overlooked by many travellers. This state has a salt desert, remarkable architecture, mouth watering delicacies, tribal villages, India's finest textiles, migratory birds, the only wild ass sanctuary, Asiatic lions, sacred Hindu and Jain pilgrimage sites and colourful festivals – the list goes on. Witness the grandeur that is Gujarat this winter when the weather is pleasant.
What to do?
Witness sunrise in Rann of Kutch, partake in the Kutch festival, endure the earthquake devastation in Bhuj, grasp the beauty of Mandavi, become spiritually one in Dwaraka, have gujarati thali in Porbandar and travel back in time at Rani Ki Vav.
9. Daman & Diu
This tiny island connecting Gujarat via a bridge is one of the least visited places in India. Infused with Portuguese culture and architecture, Diu should definitely be on your travel list. It is one of the cleanest places in India. This Union territory is jam packed in winters and the whole place turns into one party struck island. If you want to welcome the new year with a bang this is the place to be!
What to do?
Visit the caves that were once submerged in the ocean, learn about the navy ship that sunk in a war, see the sun set and rise glistening the ocean and visit the fort which is also the current jail.
10. Ladakh
Ladakh ! the high desert capital city shuts down for almost three months during winter. The otherwise lanes that are flourishing with tourists and motorists are completely abandoned during this time. The day starts and ends by noon. One can barely see the sun through the constant shower of flakes of snow. Visiting any place during the best season is one thing but travelling to the same region when the conditions are not suitable is an insight into reality. Majority of people crave for adventure and excitement but only a few have the heart to experience it. If you are one of those people, this is the place for you.