Top Ten Winter Destination In INDIA

Winters are usually the time to snuggle up with a good book in front of a fireplace, enjoying a hot cup of tea in bed every morning, lazy afternoons and more. Winters are also the time of festivities and a feel good spirit. They also make for a good time to go on a vacation with your family, or even all by yourself. In fact, any season is a good season to go on a holiday.

India is blessed with different climatic conditions in winter season in different parts of the country. Unlike most of the Western world, where cities are covered under a blanket of snow in winters, there is quite a bit to choose from when it comes to winter holiday destinations in India.
Here is a list of top 10 winter holiday destinations in India that you could get started with:

1. Rajasthan

One of the best times to visit the royal state of Rajasthan is during the winter months. Like most parts of North India, Rajasthan too experiences cold climatic conditions during the winter months, which are pleasant by western world standards.

There is something magical about visiting the different forts and palaces of Rajasthan, coupled with traditional folk dances and the famed Rajasthan hospitality. Jodhpur and Jaisalmer are must visit cities in Rajasthan during the winter months. A part of Thar Desert, these cities offer a magical experience.

2. Kerala

Some people just don’t like the idea of snuggling up in a warm blanket all day long. For people who would rather escape the chilling temperatures of winters, Kerala is ideal for winter holiday destinations in India.

[Kerala the rustic and inviting land is idle destination for honeymoon in India]

This gorgeous Indian state experienced moderate climate throughout the year. And it has loads to offer to tourists throughout the year. During a Kerala trip, you can choose to relax on tranquil beaches, stay in a treehouse in Kerala, take a backwater tour and do so much more.

3. Auli

If you are looking for a skiing holiday, one of the best destinations to be in during winter months is Auli. A part of the Indian state of Uttarakhand, this valley is home to some gorgeous skiing slopes. In fact, in a short period of time, it has fast caught up to the popularity of Manali and Shimla as skiing destinations in India.

4. Shimla

There is nothing like spending a romantic vacation with your special someone in the midst of snow. Shimla is a quintessential winter holiday destination in India. The colonial character, snow covered peaks and good accessibility makes it one of the hottest destinations for honeymooners in the winter season. However, you could enjoy a vacation in Shimla in winter months even if you are alone and looking for some adventure. Shimla is considered one of the best destinations for a skiing holiday in India.

5. Goa

Image Source: Vaibhav San

Looking to bring in the festivals this year with a lot more joi de vive? If yes, Goa can be your ultimate winter holiday destination. The place comes alive during the winter months with all night parties and some seriously crazy crowd. The atmosphere is electric especially during the time of New Year and Christmas. Just be aware of overpriced hotels and restaurants during that time of the year. Better yet, make your bookings well in advance, for the place is jam packed during the winter months.

Image Source:  Molesworth II

6. Andaman

Image Source: Binu K S

In complete contrast to the electric atmosphere of Goa is the tranquil ambience of Andaman. If you would rather spend your time some place secluded and some place relatively warm, consider having a vacation in Andaman. The winter months are one of the best times to enjoy the exotic marine life of Andaman Islands. And while on an Andaman trip, do not forget to try snorkeling with an elephant in Havelock Island.

7. Lakshadweep

Similar to Andaman are the Lakshadweep Islands, a group of 39 small islands. You can expect quintessential island temperature, which is moderate for most part of the year. There are secluded beaches to enjoy and gorgeous marine life to explore. If you would rather while away your time under the sun during winters, you should seriously consider Lakshadweep as your winter holiday destination in India.

8. Delhi

Image Source: Arian Zwegers

Much has been said about Delhi’s winters. Despite the chaos of the capital city, despite all the mayhem, the city takes on a magical air during the winter months. There are mist covered mornings, festivals to enjoy during winters and so much more. And do not forget to sample Delhi’s famous street food during the winter months. It tastes that extra bit delicious when there is chill in the air.

Image Source: Arian Zwegers

9. Nainital

Image Source: Sanjoy Ghosh

Located at the foothills of the Himalayas is the gorgeous little hill station of Nainital. It is located at an altitude of little more than 2,000 meters, which means it enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year. However, if you are looking for a quintessential winter holiday amidst snow capped peaks, winter season is the best time to visit Nainital.

Just like most hill stations in India, there is romanticism in the air in the winter months here, and the streets are fairly less crowded, which adds to the experience.

Image Source: rajkumar1220

10. Corbett National Park

Located in Nainital district is Jim Corbett National Park, one of the most famous wildlife reserves of India. Anytime is a good time to visit the national park, which boasts of sizeable population of tigers and several other wild animals. However, winter time is particularly special. Foggy mornings, a slight nip in the air, and a greater probability of spotting wild animals make the experience a whole lot better.

Top 10 winter destinations in Europe

Top 10 winter destinations in Europe

• Andy Symington

winter comes in many guises in Europe, in the polar north there’s serious snow and sunless weeks, while you’ll find lingering sunshine in the mild Mediterranean, and cosy cafe culture and Christmas spirit in the centre. It’s an inspiring time to visit grand metropolises and charming villages: with fewer queues you can fit more into your itinerary, and low off-season accommodation prices make travel wallet-friendly. Via Europe’s train network you can explore countries at your leisure, meeting locals going about their daily business away from the often-frenetic summer tourist season.

1. Rovaniemi, Finland

Fistfuls of Christmas clichés characterise Rovaniemi, the ‘official’ terrestrial residence of Santa Claus. Everyone’s favourite bearded man hangs out in an atmospheric Arctic Circle grotto, and it’s free to visit him (but photos are another story). Snow and reindeer add festive spirit, while the Arktikum museum gives insights into life at these latitudes.
Tip: Finnish thermometers have more numbers below 0°C than above, so pack serious winter clothing.

2. Christmas markets, Germany & Austria

December sees these romantic historic markets pop up all over Germany and other Central European nations. Expect cute stalls selling everything from gingerbread to sleigh bells and plenty of good cheer, toasted with a glass of warming glühwein.
Tip: Famous markets in Cologne, Vienna and Munich draw the tourist crowds, but seeking out ones in smaller towns is rewarding.

 Decorations, European Christmas Market. Image by Richard Nebesky/Getty Images.

3. Abisko, Sweden

Almost as far north as you can get in Europe on a train, Abisko in Lapland is for lovers of serious winter. The sun doesn’t rise for several weeks in December and January but that darkness makes it one of the world’s best places to view the majestic aurora borealis. Other attractions include cross-country skiing along national park trails and husky mushing.
Tip: Stop off at nearby Kiruna to see the famous Icehotel.

4. Athens, Greece

It’s a real downer trying to Photoshop 500 people out of your would-be-prizewinning Parthenon photo, but in winter it’s not an issue. All summer stresses – crowding, tourist pricing, intense heat, queues, air pollution – more or less disappear. It’s the best time to explore the country’s ancient heritage and get to experience local culture.
Tip: By all means do some island-hopping, but most accommodations close in winter.

 Acropolis, Athens. Image by John Elk III/Getty Images.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

For fairytale European winter, it’s hard to beat the home of Hans Christian Andersen. Forget the over-hyped Little Mermaid and head to the city’s cosy bars and cafes to watch snow flurrying outside. In the heart of town, the 19th-century Tivoli amusement park is a romantic, kitsch delight around Christmastime, with heartwarming illuminations and body-warming mugs of glögg.
Tip: Splash out on a meal at Noma, considered by many to be the world’s best restaurant (reservations can fill quickly, so try to book several months in advance).

6. Budapest, Hungary

Couples skating hand-in-hand, breath cloudy in the frosty air – there’s nowhere better for it than the Hungarian capital’s picturesque central park Városligeti Műjégpálya, with its enormous outdoor rink. Feeling chilly afterwards? Budapest is famous for its ornate thermal baths.
Tip: At night seek out a ‘ruin pub’ – an atmospheric drinking venue artfully created in a once-abandoned building.

7. Jasná, Slovakia

Slovakia offers high-quality skiing at affordable prices. Accommodation and food are reasonable too, and there’s a friendliness that’s missing from some of the snootier Alpine slopes. Jasná is the best Slovakian resort, with long descents flanked by snow-laden spruce trees, set in the ruggedly lovely Tatras Mountains.
Tip: Flights direct to Slovakia can be pricey, so don’t make this your entry point to Europe.

8. Andalucía, Spain

Parts of Andalucía are further south than the African coast so expect mild temperatures in winter. Accommodation is cheap, and crowds are smaller at standout attractions like Granada’s Alhambra or Seville’s cathedral. Plus tapas and nightlife in the cities are as enticing as ever.
Tip: Head to the Sierra Nevada near Granada if you want snowsport action.

 Seville street, Andalucía, Spain. Image by Oliver Strewe/Getty Images.

9. Transylvania, Romania

You can’t visit Dracula’s lair on a sunny day with lambs bleating in the fields, right? Try steel-grey skies, bare trees and a smattering of snow. Braşov and Sighişoara, two hours apart by rail, are gorgeous medieval towns with various connections to Vlad Ţepeş, the historical Dracula, though it’s doubtful that he ever set foot in his so-called castle.
Tip: Bram Stoker never visited Romania, so don’t expect many parallels with the book or films.

10. Venice, Italy

Hauntingly beautiful and rather weird, Venice’s Carnevale in February is a European highlight. Elaborate costumes and spooky masks bring the canal city’s colourful history to life. Costumed dances are pricey affairs, but you can have a ball enjoying the free events with a mask bought on the street, but be prepared for epic crowding.
Tip: Book accommodation ahead. Day-tripping in and out on a train will lower costs considerably.

Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations 2012

Discover the world's top 10 honeymoon destinations in 2012 for that ‘once in a lifetime’ honeymoon experience:

1. Bora Bora, Tahiti

– Bora Bora is the epitome of a postcard-perfect South Pacific island; one that lives up to its reputation of providing a magical experience for newlywed couples.
   From the majestic twin peaks of the ancient 600m-high volcano at its centre to the numerous palm-fringed sugar-white beaches around the lagoon, Bora Bora offers an exotic experience.

2. The Maldives

– The Maldives offers idyllic surroundings for honeymoon couples wanting to savour intimate moments together in a unique, serene environment.
   Discover a choice of tranquil and pampered settings on any
of the more than 80 exclusive resort islands, which are mostly encircled by gorgeous palm-fringed and sugar-white beaches. Read more about The Maldives....

3. The Seychelles

– Renowned for dazzling white-sand beaches, dramatic rock formations, warm crystal clear waters and lush tropical vegetation, the Seychelles remains a magical honeymoon destination. Discover La Digue Island and the gorgeous Anse Source d’Argent beach or the equally stunning Praslin Island, home to Anse Lazio, a perfect crescent of soft, fine-grained white sand. Read more about the Seychelles . . .

4. Maui, Hawaii

– Say ‘aloha’ to Maui – the number one honeymoon destination in Hawaii and one of the world's best honeymoon destinations!
   Blessed with gorgeous white-sand beaches, lush tropical rainforest, stunning waterfalls, rugged volcanic peaks and fabulous resorts, the ‘Valley Island’ of Maui offers all the ingredients you need for a magical honeymoon experience.
Read more about Maui . . .

5. Mauritius

– Known as ‘The Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, the tropical island paradise of Mauritius is a one of the world’s best honeymoon destinations.
   Famous for its outstanding natural beauty, Mauritius offers a paradise of endless white tropical beaches that are perfect for enjoying the warm, crystalline sea and soaking up the sun with your partner. Read more about Mauritius . . .

6. Bali, Indonesia

– Bali is one of Asia’s most exotic, tranquil and romantic honeymoon destinations. Blessed with a rich and ancient culture, Bali is home to great natural beauty, friendly people and sun-kissed beaches that offer numerous fun-filled activities for your honeymoon.
   In Bali, it's easy to discover all you need for an unforgettable honeymoon holiday. Read more about Bali . . .

7. Fji

– Experience one of the South Pacific’s most friendly and romantic honeymoon destinations. With its friendly ‘bula’ charm, sugar-white beaches, warm tropical breezes and intimate beach resorts specialising in honeymoon packages, Fiji is a long-time favourite with honeymoon couples.
   Choose from more than 300 sun-kissed tropical islands scattered across several island groups. Read more about Fiji . .

8. The Cook Islands

– The Cook Islands are famous for unspoiled sugar-white beaches, a year-round perfect climate and friendly Polynesian people. Rarotonga, Aitutaki and ‘Atiu
offer the widest choice of luxury honeymoon accommodation.
   Relax on a white-sand beach or choose from scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing and sea kayaking to hiking, game fishing
and whale watching. Read more about the Cook Islands . . .

9. Cancun, Mexico

– In Cancun, it’s easy to find a choice of gorgeous white-sand beaches, luxurious beachfront hotels, a vibrant nightlife, great shopping and ancient Mayan ruins to explore along an idyllic 22km-long coastline.
   South of Cancun lies the Riviera Maya, home to some of the hippest beaches on the coast including chic Playa del Carmen and gorgeous Tulum Beach. Read more about Cancun . . .

10. Bahamas, Caribbean

– Choose from 30 tropical islands fringed by sugar-white sands and lapped by warm, clear waters that are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, diving and sailing.
   Unwind at the Las Vegas-style resorts on New Providence, Paradise and Grand Bahama islands or escape the crowds for the famous pink-hued beaches of Exuma, Harbour Island and Eleuthera – all just a 35-minute flight from Miami.
Read more about the Bahamas . . .