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10 Winter Holiday Destinations to Visit with Your Family in India from Delhi Airport

10 Winter Holiday Destinations to Visit with Your Family in India from Delhi Airport

5 December 2023

Winter is arguably the best time of the year. The warmth-infusing bonfires, a delicious cup of hot cocoa, shimmering Christmas lights, white snow, and an excuse to cuddle your loved ones make this time worth looking forward to.

Winters have that magical vibe for getting lost in a good book wrapped up in a warm blanket. However, to truly embrace this delightful season, planning a family vacation is a must. And what better destination to explore than the snow-capped mountains and serene beaches of India?

So, if you are ready to embark on a memorable family trip, here is a list of the best winter holiday destinations to visit from Delhi Airport! Here you go!

Top 10 Winter Destinations to Explore with Your Family in India

1. Gulmarg, Kashmir

Located in the northernmost state of India, Gulmarg is an enchanting hill town. A magical destination, the place boasts a snow-laden landscape and frozen lakes. An ideal winter holiday destination in India, Gulmarg allows travellers to indulge in activities like snowboarding and skiing to satiate their hunger for the adrenaline rush. So, whether you are travelling for pleasant sights or a lust adventure, Gulmarg has got you covered.

  • Top Attractions: Strawberry Valley, Alpather Lake, and Apharwat Peak
  • What Not to Miss: Cable Car Ride
  • How to Reach: Flying from Delhi Airport (DEL) to Gulmarg Airport (SXR) will take approximately one and a half hours.

2. Auli, Uttrakhand

If you wish to wake up to the spell-binding sight of snow-capped mountains, Auli is another must-visit winter vacation destination in India. Dotted with apple orchards and pine trees, the place promises immense natural beauty. Boasting numerous ski resorts, Auli is also the best skiing destination in India. Its challenging treks, located in the hills of Garhwal, and Asia’s longest Gondola ride ensure a thrilling adventure for visitors.

  • Top Attractions: Nanda Devi National Park, Gurso Bugyal, Chenab Lake
  • What Not to Miss: 360-degree view from Nanda Devi
  • How to Reach: Fly to Dehradun Airport (DED) from DEL. From there, you can book a taxi to Auli.

3. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh

Situated in the Dhauladhar range in the Himalayas, Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh is an ideal destination for those who enjoy the colonial charm. A serene town that has preserved its natural beauty, this hill station has something for everyone, from peace-seeking travellers to adventurers.

Known as the singing hill, the Dainkund Peak in Dalhousie offers an enchanting view of the Chenab, Ravi, and Beas rivers. The Panchpula, Ganji Pahari, and Chamera Lake are a few other must-visit travel places in India in December for breathtaking views.

  • Top Attractions: Chamunda Devi Temple, Kalatop Wildlife Reserve, and Khajjiar.
  • What Not to Miss: Rang Mahal
  • How to Reach: Flying from Delhi Airport (DEL) to Dalhousie (DHM) takes less than two hours.

4. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

Camping under the stars at sub-zero temperatures is an extraordinary experience you won’t want to miss. For this, plan a trip to one of the best winter destinations in India, the Rann of Kutch. During the cold season, the famous Rann Utsav – a two-month cultural festival- renowned for its beautiful authentic handicrafts, spellbinding cultural performances, and adventurous desert safari is organised here. Besides Rann Utsav, you can also visit Mandvi, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, and Siyot Caves to have a good time.

  • Top Attractions: Dholavira, Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary, and Topansar Lake
  • What Not to Miss: Camping in Dhordo Village
  • How to Reach: Fly to Kandla Airport (IXY) from DEL. From here, you can book a taxi and reach Kutch in approx. 3 hours.

5. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Since Jaisalmer is hot and humid during most part of the year, winter is the best time to visit this city in India. Plan your family's winter holidays at this beautiful destination, where you can enjoy activities like desert camping, quad biking, camel rides, parasailing, and dune bashing. If you are an animal lover, you can visit the Desert National Park to spot rare species and Gadisar Lake for bird watching.

  • Top Attractions: Jaisalmer Fort, Nathmal Ki Haveli, and Desert Culture Centre and Museum
  • What Not to Miss: Sunset Safari at Sam Sand Dunes
  • How to Reach: Flying to Jaisalmer Airport (JSA) from Delhi Airport (DEL) takes less than two hours.

6. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

If you are planning a family trip during winter vacations in India, Varanasi is another destination you can add to your list, especially when travelling with elders. One of the oldest and holiest cities in the country, the place boasts numerous ashrams, ghats, and temples where you will feel at peace.

When visiting Varanasi, pay your respects at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple -one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, explore the Dashashwamedh Ghat located nearby, participate in the evening aarti, and witness the mesmerising sunset while enjoying a boat ride in the holy Ganges.

  • Top Attractions: Ramnagar Fort, Sarnath, and Kashi Vishwanath Temple
  • What Not to Miss: Dip in the Ganges
  • How to Reach: Book a flight from DEL to Varanasi (VNS). Via flight, you can complete your journey in less than one and a half hours.

7. Goa

To make the most of your winter holidays in India, plan a vacation in Goa. Here, you can attend Sunburn, the largest dance music festival in Asia. Held in December every year at Candolim Beach, the fest is attended by an array of famous artists performing live. Teenage children and young adults will especially cherish the experience. Moreover, you can enjoy sunbathing at the beaches, attend New Year parties, indulge in adventurous water sports, and take a cruise down the Mandovi River for a thrilling vacation in Goa.

  • Top Attractions: Anjuna Beach, Arpora Market, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
  • What Not to Miss: Dolphin Spotting
  • How to Reach: Fly from DEL to GOI (Goa Airport) to reach your destination in less than three hours.

8. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

During the winter months, Ooty is covered in a thick blanket of fog that enhances its beauty. This winter holiday destination in India is renowned for its lush tea plantations, steep mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking views. If you are travelling with kids, visit the Thunder World, housing 20 models of dinosaurs coupled with sound and special effects. The artificial rainforest and haunted house also interests children.

  • Top Attractions: Catherine Waterfall, Toda Huts, and Higginbothams Book Store
  • What Not to Miss: Riding Nilgiri Mountain Train
  • How to Reach: Book your flight from Delhi Airport to Coimbatore International Airport (CJB). From here, you can get a cab to Ooty.

9. Kohima, Nagaland

Kohima receives significant rain during most part of the year except for the months between November and March, making this destination an ideal retreat for family winter holidays. Surrounded by picturesque hills, the place offers a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. During December, the capital city of Nagaland celebrates the Hornbill Festival. Visitors can enjoy a mix of dances, performances, crafts, sports, games, and parades during this time of the year. The cool climate, welcoming locals, and distinct cuisine further add to the overall experience.

  • Top Attractions: Kohima War Cemetery, Kohima Museum, and Dzuleke Village
  • What Not to Miss: A Visit to Naga Heritage Village
  • How to Reach: Catch a flight from New Delhi (DEL) to Kohima (DMU).

10. Dawki, Meghalaya

Another must-visit town among the top 10 winter holiday destinations in India is Dawki in Meghalaya. Known for its clear river water and lush green surroundings, this town is a gateway to Bangladesh. When visiting Dawki, going for a boat ride with your family in the Umngot River is a must-have experience. The Burhill waterfall, located in the midst of thickly wooded hills, Riwai Village, known for its root bridges, and Mawlynnog, the cleanest village in the whole of Asia, are some other places to explore while travelling to Dawki.

  • Top Attractions: Jaflong Zero Point, Shnongpdeng, and Krang Shuri Waterfalls
  • What Not to Miss: Suspension Bridge
  • How to Reach: Board a flight from DEL to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU). From here, get a taxi to drop you off at Dawki.

Final Thoughts

Winter is one of the best times to plan a family trip. During the cold months, you do not need to worry about the sweltering sun or getting drenched in the rain. The pleasant climate aligns perfectly with school holidays, creating the perfect timing for planning a memorable family vacation.

So, now is the time to seize the chance—choose from these destinations, secure your tickets, pack your bags, and embark on a journey to create joyful and lasting memories!

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