Top 5 Places to Visit in North India During Winter

Group of people standing

Published Date: December 8, 2022

In India, winter begins in late November or December. And ends in late February or March. The coldest (0-10°C) months are December and January. The Himalayan mountains make North India the most sought-after place in India. Hence, amongst the north, south, east, and west regions of India, the north attracts the most people in winter. 

Usually, you can see the mounts at a height between 2500 to 4500 showing glacial highlands. And the mountains higher than this have year around snowfall. Is any season other than winter the best season to visit North India?

Now, let’s explore the top five tourist places to visit in north India during winter.  

  1. Shimla
  2. Agra
  3. Srinagar
  4. Mussoorie
  5. Auli

Check out the best North India holiday package here!

Best Five Places in North India to Visit During Winter:

1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Among the tourist places in north India for winter, Shimla stands as the No.1 destination forever. The highest peak (~2450 meters) at Shimla is the Jakhu hills. The winters here are usually either 0°C or lower. Popularly called the “Queen of Hills,” this city is built on the top of seven hills. Only Shimla in India has such a unique characteristic formation. Hence, it has become one of the favorite honeymoon places in India. 

Another note-worthy specialty of the city is its old colonial architecture. These edifice buildings have hosted numerous political conferences in both pre-and post-independence eras. 

Top attractions: Winter Carnival, The Ridge, Mall road, Christ Church, Botanical Gardens, Ice Skating, Jakhoo hills, Kufri, and Sankat Mochan Temple

Best months to visit: Mid-Dec to Mid-Jan

2. Agra, New Delhi

Agra, the capital city of New Delhi is known for the Taj Mahal. What most people know it stands for is the symbol of love. But it also stands for the beautiful Indian, Persian, and Islamic architectural styles. It is the only spot in India to get listed on the “Seven wonders of the world.” Located right on the banks of the river Yamuna, no one fails to grab a picture there. 

Agra is also known for its Mughal legacy and warm winters. Yes, the city gives you enough warmth during winter. So you can explore the attractions comfortably. If you like history, kingdoms, dynasties, heritage, etc., then it is the best sightseeing place for you this winter!  

Top attractions: Taj Mahal, Jama Masjid, Agra Red Fort, Mughal garden, Akbar’s Tomb, Keetham Lake, Jahangir Palace, Mehtab Bagh, and Fatehpur Sikri

Best months to visit: November to February

3. Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir

Located on both sides of the river Jhelum, it is the northmost city in the country. It is the top second most metropolitan city in the Himalayas. As the river flows through the city, it has nine oldest bridges that link the two parts of the city. It has several famous lakes like Dal and Nigeen lakes. You cannot miss a chance to stay in the houseboats! That’s a marvelous experience that every tourist must cherish in this city.    

Pocketed in the Kashmir valley, the temperature in the city ranges between 1-5°C during winter. Thus, making it one of the top places to visit in north India during winter for newly married couples.

Top attractions: Dal Lake, Khilanmarg mount, Nigeen Lake, Shalimar & Nishat Bagh, Pir Panjal range, Sher Garhi Palace, Manasbal Lake, Pari Mahal, Shankaracharya Temple, and Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Gardens

Top things to do: Skiing, Trekking, Golfing, Walking the slopes, Sightseeing

Best months to visit: January

Suggested read: Top romantic destinations in India >>>

4. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Parked in the Himalayan foothills, the city is at a height of ~2000 meters. The climate is cold and cloudy during winter. You can experience more frequent rainfall here than in other North Indian tourist destinations. Hence, this city is on the list of the best places to visit in North India in December.

The city is also famed for its colonial touch in the churches, restaurants, hotels, and other tourist spots. 

Top attractions: Dhanaulti hills, Kempty falls, Camel’s Back Road, Devbhoomi museum, Happy Valley, Lal Tibba peak, Gun hills, Company Bagh, Mussoorie lake, and Bhatta Falls

Best months to visit: December

5. Auli, Uttarakhand

If you’re a person who likes sports and adventures, then Auli must be your destination this year. We bet, in India, no other place other than Auli can give you the best hiking and skiing experience. Also referred to as the “Gateway of the Himalayas,” this city has mesmerizing meadows. Never fail to walk amidst the oak forests in these mountains. 

The city came to the limelight only after Shri Shankaracharya established a Jyotir Math. Are you looking for a less crowded tourist spot this winter? Choose Auli!

Top attractions: Auli Artificial Lake, Chattrakund Lake, Chenab Lake, Trishul peak, Gurson Bugyal, Kamat Kamet, Joshimath, Narsingh Temple, and Nanda Devi Peak

Top things to do: Cable car ride, Ropeway ride, Chairlift, Snow games, Ski lift

Best months to visit: December

If you are looking for a perfect north India tours and travels package, then we’ll help you plan a perfect holiday.