As winter sets in across India, travelers are already planning their winter vacations. Whether it’s the chill of the mountains or the warmth of the sun on the beaches, winter travel in India has something for every kind of explorer. 2025 promises to be an exciting year for winter travelers, with a host of new trends emerging across the country. From sustainability to off-the-beaten-path escapes, here’s what you can expect from the winter travel scene in India this year.
1. Eco-Friendly Travel
As more Indian travelers become conscious of their environmental impact, eco-friendly travel has seen a significant rise in popularity. With sustainability in mind, more people are opting for eco-resorts, green tourism initiatives, and destinations that prioritize conservation. This winter, eco-conscious travel is more accessible than ever.
For instance, places like Coorg in Karnataka, known for its coffee plantations, offer eco-friendly homestays that focus on sustainable farming practices. Similarly, resorts in the Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh are going green, with solar power and water conservation measures. Many hill stations like Mussorie or Nainital are also promoting eco-friendly tourism practices to reduce the carbon footprint of travelers.
Additionally, train journeys through the scenic landscapes of Darjeeling, Shimla, or Udhagamandalam (Ooty) are increasingly becoming popular. This shift towards train travel not only offers a comfortable ride but also reduces the environmental impact compared to flying, making it an excellent alternative for winter getaways.
2. Wellness and Mindful Escapes
Winter is the ideal time to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and focus on self-care. Wellness tourism is one of the fastest-growing trends, and India offers plenty of destinations that cater to travelers looking for rest and relaxation. Whether you seek to rejuvenate your mind, body, or soul, winter is the perfect time to visit wellness retreats or spiritual centers.
For a perfect wellness retreat, head to Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, the yoga capital of the world, where you can meditate by the banks of the Ganges or practice yoga in serene ashrams. Alternatively, you can visit the Ayurvedic resorts in Kerala that offer therapeutic treatments amidst lush backwaters, with the mild winter climate providing an added layer of comfort. Auli in Uttarakhand is also gaining traction as a destination for wellness, with resorts offering yoga, nature therapy, and meditation with panoramic snow-covered views.
Many wellness destinations in India are offering packages focused on relaxation, mental health, and healing during the colder months—making it a great option for those looking to rejuvenate during the winter season.
3. Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations
While popular winter destinations like Manali, Shimla, or Goa continue to attract travelers, more and more people are now opting for lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path destinations. These places offer unique experiences, fewer crowds, and a chance to explore authentic local culture.
Some of the best off-the-beaten-path winter escapes include Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, a hidden gem that’s perfect for winter treks and offers a serene snow-clad environment. Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is another emerging destination that offers isolation and rugged beauty, ideal for travelers who enjoy solitude and adventure. For those who prefer more remote places, Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh is a peaceful winter retreat, known for its lush landscapes and the vibrant culture of the Apatani tribe.
Travelers are also exploring the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve in Uttarakhand and Dhanaulti, which is quickly becoming popular for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a quieter, more intimate winter experience.
4. Adventure Travel
Adventure travel is thriving in India, and winter is the best time to experience a variety of thrilling activities, especially in the Himalayan region. Whether it’s skiing, snowboarding, trekking, or even paragliding, India has no shortage of opportunities to satisfy your adrenaline cravings.
This winter, places like Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir and Auli in Uttarakhand are drawing more skiers and snowboarders from across the country. For those who prefer trekking, winter treks to Chadar Lake in Ladakh or Har Ki Dun in Uttarakhand offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with snow-covered trails and breathtaking views. Manali and Leh are also emerging as popular destinations for adventure lovers, with activities ranging from bike tours to winter camping in remote locations.
For thrill-seekers, paragliding in Bir Billing (Himachal Pradesh) and solitude treks in Kedarkantha (Uttarakhand) are also on the rise, providing the ultimate winter rush.
5. Solo Travel
Solo travel is increasingly gaining momentum, and winter is the perfect time to venture out on your own. Whether you’re seeking solace in nature or an adventure to remember, there are plenty of destinations in India where solo travelers can find peace, inspiration, and new experiences.
Leh-Ladakh in winter is a favorite for solo adventurers, offering stark landscapes, snow-covered mountains, and quiet monasteries. For a quieter, more reflective experience, Rishikesh and Varanasi are great choices for those looking to connect with their spiritual side. Udaipur, known as the “City of Lakes,” offers a peaceful and romantic setting, perfect for solo travelers who want to unwind by the water.
Solo travel in winter provides the freedom to explore at your own pace, and India’s diverse destinations cater to all kinds of solo travelers, whether they seek adventure or tranquility.
6. Remote Work and Winter Stays
Thanks to the rise of remote work, many Indians are taking advantage of the flexibility it offers by spending the winter months working from picturesque destinations. Winter stays in destinations like Goa, Coorg, or Rishikesh are perfect for those looking to blend work with leisure. The concept of workation is now growing in popularity as people choose to work from scenic locales and enjoy the best of both worlds.
Cities like Jaipur, Nainital, and Rishikesh offer cozy homestays, modern amenities, and a peaceful environment ideal for remote workers. Many resorts in the Kashmir Valley and Darjeeling are also providing dedicated spaces for work while offering breathtaking views for relaxation during downtime. For those looking to escape the harsh winter chill in the north, Goa continues to be a top choice, offering a perfect balance of productivity and beachside relaxation.
7. Food & Drink Experiences in Winter
Winter in India is synonymous with warm, comforting food, and it’s the perfect season to indulge in regional specialties. From steaming bowls of momos in Darjeeling to spicy chole bhature in Amritsar, the winter season brings out the best of India’s culinary delights.
For those looking to experience food with a cultural twist, Rajasthan is home to Ghevar and Dal Baati Churma, while Kashmir offers a unique winter delicacy—Rogan Josh. Mysore is another culinary destination where travelers can savor rich Mysore Pak or spicy sambar to beat the winter chill.
Winter food festivals are also a great way to indulge in the seasonal flavors and taste traditional dishes, especially in cities like Lucknow, Delhi, and Kolkata, where food lovers can enjoy a variety of street food and traditional sweets unique to the region.
8. Family Travel
Winter is a wonderful time for families to travel, as the season offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Families can bond over a snowball fight in Shimla, enjoy a relaxing stay at a hill station, or visit Nainital for a boat ride on the lake while surrounded by misty mountains.
Goa and Andaman & Nicobar Islands remain family favorites for those seeking warmer winter vacations, offering beaches, water sports, and kid-friendly resorts. For an unforgettable family experience in the mountains, Gulmarg and Manali offer family ski lessons, sledding, and snow hikes.
In addition, places like Kumarakom in Kerala, with its tranquil backwaters, provide the perfect family getaway to unwind and create lasting memories.
Winter in India – A Season to Explore and Relax
Winter in India is not just a season for skiing or beach vacations; it’s a time to experience diverse landscapes, cultures, and adventures. From eco-friendly travel and wellness retreats to adventure travel, solo journeys, and family holidays, India offers something for every traveler this winter. Whether you’re seeking a quiet getaway, a thrilling adventure, or a work-friendly location, the winter travel trends of 2025 provide an array of exciting options for making the most of the season.
Embrace the trends, choose your destination, and make your winter vacation in India a memorable one!
