Tired of the same mainstream winter destinations popping up in your head? Are you looking for offbeat winter destinations in India that provide a unique getaway? Well, you’re at the right place. These destinations in India are hidden gems, often overlooked by tourists who flock to more popular winter spots. But, these offer a unique experience that’ll make you gatekeep them from your friends and enjoy them all by yourself. So, sit back and keep reading our list of 5 offbeat winter destinations in India that should be on your travel radar!
Offbeat Winter Destinations In India For A Unique Getaway
- Ziro
- Tirthan Valley
- Meghamalai
- Kalimpong
- Tapola
Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
We’re starting the list of offbeat winter destinations in India from the North-East, because the Seven Sisters deserve more appreciation, don’t they? When it comes to the North-East, the picturesque town of Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh and its stunning valley are nothing short of heaven on earth.
The town hosts its annual Ziro Music Festival, also famous as one of India’s most famous eco-friendly festivals. On the other hand, the chilly winters wrap the landscape in delicate layers of fog and greenery. In Ziro, you can stroll through lush paddy fields, explore nearby woods, visit local temples, and enjoy breathtaking viewpoints – there’s so much to discover, yet so little of it is widely known. Also, do you know that the famous Hindi-film Bhediya was also shot here?
How To Reach Ziro?
Road
There are overnight buses from Guwahati as well as several buses operated by the Arunachal Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation. Shared taxis are available from North Lakhimpur or Itanagar as well, starting at INR 350.
Rail
Naharalagun, 100 kilometers (km) away from Ziro is the closest railhead. From Guawahati, there are regular intercity trains as well as one weekly train from New Delhi to Naharalagun.
Air
Jorhat (98 km) is the closest airport to Ziro, while Guwahati (449 km) is the closest international airport. From here, you can get shared taxis, public buses, or trains as mentioned above.
Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh
This list of offbeat winter destinations in India would be incomplete without a mention of the Himachals. In winter, the valley transforms into something you’ve only seen in magical stories and we’re not even exaggerating. Streams, rivers, small hills, and snow-capped mountains – there’s abundant natural beauty you’ll be surrounded by.
While you’re here, you can explore the small hamlets in and around Tirthan valley and get a glimpse of the mountain life. You can also try out your hand at trout fishing, bird watching, driving on the hilly terrain, meditating by the rivers, and even trekking to the nearby Great Himalayan National Park. If you extend your stay here, you can also have a day trip to Jibhi or trek to the Jalori Pass Serlosarkar Lake. And, don’t you forget to try out their authentic, decadent siddu – a steamed bread stuffed with walnuts, green peas, and herbs.
How To Reach Tirthan Valley?
Road
Reaching Tirthan Valley by road is the best option due to its convenience. Simply hop on a bus from Delhi to Kullu or Manali and get down at Aut. From Aut, you can hire a taxi directly to the valley.
Rail
Shimla (190 km) and Chandigarh (236 km) are the closest railheads, with regular express trains halting at these stations. Taxis and buses are readily available from these junctions.
Air
The nearest airport to Tirthan Valley is the Bhuntar Airport in Kullu (55 km). From here, taxis are easily available.
Meghamalai
Oh, if you think India’s winters are best enjoyed in the North, think again. Some of the coolest (literally) hill stations are tucked away in the usually sultry South. Among Ooty, Coorg, Kodaikanal, and others, Meghamalai stands out as relatively offbeat. In fact, the name of the place literally translates to ‘hills of clouds’.
There are several places you can visit in and around Meghamalai. Visit the beautiful dams – the ones at Manalar, Iravangalar. Also, don’t miss out on the Megamalai viewpoint, Maharaja Mettu, and Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. So, if you want to explore a hill station in South India that’s not the usual Ooty or Coorg, this one’s the best for you!
How To Reach Meghamalai?
Road
There are regular buses from Madurai, Chennai, and even Bangalore that take you to Meghamalai. As Madurai is the closest city (129 km), many also choose to drive directly to the hill station.
Rail
Theni (55 km) and Madurai (129 km) are two important railway junctions from where you can reach Meghamalai.
Air
The nearest airport to this hill station is the one at Madurai, while the nearest international airport is at Chennai (464 km). From here, buses to Madurai and Meghamalai are available.
Kalimpong, West Bengal
Some of the most underrated hill stations in India are nestled in West Bengal. While Darjeeling is a well-known gem, Kalimpong truly deserves more recognition. Located right at the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, and perched above the Teesta River, this quaint hill town is truly a traveler’s paradise.
You have tons of tourist attractions, as well as scenic landscapes. There’s the Lepcha Museum, Mangal Dham Temple, Teesta Bazaar, Durpin Dara Hill, and many other sites of interest. Many of the houses and buildings stand tall in their vintage colonial-style architecture, looking like they’re straight out of a timeless tale. Pinterest girls, are you taking notes?
How To Reach Kalimpong?
Road
Kalimpong is accessible by road as many state-run and private buses run from Sikkim, Gangtok, Kolkata, Darjeeling, Bagdogra, and Siliguri, starting at INR 100-150.
Rail
New Jalpaiguri (70 km) is the closest railhead to Kalimpong and taxis are easily available from the junction.
Air
The Bagdogra International Airport (78 km) is the closest airport to Kalimpong. From the airport, travellers can hire taxis
Tapola, Maharashtra
You must’ve heard of Mahabaleshwar in a list of popular winter destinations in India, but Tapola situated near enjoys a lesser crowd than the former. Also referred to as ‘Mini Kashmir’, this place is a perfect weekend getaway from nearby cities of Pune, Mumbai, and Kolhapur. Simply stroll by the lakeside, enjoy camping, or visit the various viewpoints.
Here, travelers can visit the famous Tapola lake and try out boating, paragliding, kayaking, and other adventure sports. The place is known for its elaborate camping grounds, where you and your friends can live in tents and camps at reasonable prices. You can also set out on morning treks and witness beautiful sunrises that’ll stay etched in your mind, forever. So, enjoy, meditate, relax, and rejuvenate at this little hamlet tucked away in the Sahyadris!
How To Reach Tapola?
Road
Tapola is easily accessible from major metropolitan cities like Mumbai (257 km) and Pune (143 km) by state and national highways.
Rail
Satara is the closest railhead (82 km) to Tapola, from where you can hire taxis or buses.
Air
Mumbai and Pune’s international airports are the closest, and from there you can either drive by car or rent private taxis to reach Tapola.
Summing Up
There you have it – 5 offbeat winter destinations in India that deserve more recognition. While the crowd usually tends to go to more popular winter destinations like Gulmarg, Shimla, Coorg, etc, you can ditch the ordinary and explore these hidden gems. Remember, you’re sure to have an amazing time exploring the unexplored – in every corner of India!
FAQs
Which Place Is Best For A Winter Vacation?
Here are some of the best places to go to for a winter vacation:
- Tirthan Valley
- Jaisalmer
- Ooty
- Kalimpong
- Gangtok
- Spiti Valley
- Gulmarg
Which Is The Best Hill Station To Visit In India In January?
Here are some of the best hill stations that you can visit in January:
- Kalimpong
- Kodaikanal
- Meghamalai
- Ooty
- Coorg
- Shillong
- Mahabaleshwar
Which State Is Best To Visit In December In India?
These are some of the best states to visit in December in India, mainly due to their winter landscapes, tourist attractions, and pleasant winter weather:
- Jammu and Kashmir
- Himachal Pradesh
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Tamil Nadu
- Rajasthan
- Sikkim
