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Year-End Travel Goals? Visit These 20 Places In The Month Of December

By Sanjay Gouda

Updated - May 9, 202429 min read

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December is the month when pleasant amalgamates with chill and creates a new foetus known as Whoopee! Whether you are a beach bum, or a snow-clad mountain enthusiast or a history buff or a safari shenanigan, India has you covered. With festivities like Christmas and New Year’s, just around the corner, give this 2019 holiday season a reason to be remembered. And while Jon Snow may know nothing, we have got the best places to visit in India in December, to make winters an epic affair.

 

1. Srinagar

Someone said it right, that if there's heaven on earth, here it is, here it is, here it is! And winter in Srinagar is like the best you can imagine of this season. Flanked by some of the most picturesque mountains in the world and gloved around a mystic lake with swans like Shikaras meandering towards the end of the world, while kissing a winter sunset, can only be in Srinagar. Undoubtedly, one of the many gifts of nature that you won't find anywhere else.

 

Image Courtesy: Thrillophilia

 

Things to do: Sightseeing, Long Walks Across the Dal Lake, Shopping At Lal Chowk and City Tours at the Mughal Garden.

 

How to get there: By Road - Well connectivity through major national highways from the different parts of the country. By Air - Sri Nagar Domestic Airport With Daily Flights By Various Carriers. Ideal For: Tourists of All age groups, couples, and families.

 

 

2. Barog

Nestled amidst the mighty Himalayan ranges, away from the crowd and hustle bustle of famous destinations lies this quiet little villageBarog! Coziness and tranquility are what defines it the best even perfect for that laidback holiday away from urban life. Silence! Punctuated every once in a while by the rustling of leaves and the excited calling of birds. Blue skies and seemingly endless views. Vast playgrounds for wispy, puffy white clouds to play hide and seek in. Tall trees, where shadows and sunlight happily share space. A feeling of joy takes over and curious creatures spend days and nights free and happy. This is the life in Barog - lazy and calming. Welcome to life’s little pleasures! Ideal getaway for couples or people looking for a break from the mundane life, this is a place you can call true heaven on earth. Well... You've got to visit it - to experience it.

 

Image Courtesy: Times of India

 

Click Here to know everything about Barog

 

 

3. Harsil

Harsil in winters turns into an adventure hubspot especially for the ones who don't mind the spine chilling weather the Himalayan villages are known for. Located about 72 km from the nearest major town of Uttarkashi, Harsil is another wonder and lesser-known Himalayan destination situated in the lap of Uttarakhand. Offering a wide range of mesmerizing vistas, this stunning valley on the banks of River Bhagirathi receives an adequate amount of snowfall during winters and if you can brave the cold, you are in for the views that seem straight out of a fairytale!

 

Image Courtesy: All Good Things.com

 

Things to do: Go hiking and trekking in Harsil. Watch out for exotic birds and other-worldly views in the sky, both during the day and night. Besides, you can also visit Sattal, the place near Harsil that's known for its seven lakes.

 

How to get there: Nearest airport and railway station, both are in Dehradun, about 220 km from Harsil. From Dehradun, you have to take a bus to Uttarkashi, the nearest town with a bus link. From Uttarkashi, you have to complete the rest of the journey in a shared cab.

 

 

4. Thachi

Completely disconnected from the hustle-bustle of modern life, Thachi valley is home to sleepy hamlets. Overseeing the lush green hills of the Great Himalayan National Park and the snow-covered Himalayan peaks that tower on them Thachi offers a repetitive sight of gushing waterfalls and lush green valleysBut what entices you to fall in love with this place is, a cozy staying in the wooden houses! Isn't it so awe-inspiring?

 

Image Courtesy: Mandi

 

Things to do: Perhaps, the best thing to do here would be just staying indoors and taking occasional hikes up and down the trails. However, the Bithu Narayan temple and the Hadimba Devi temple are some other attractions in Thachi valley.

 

How to get there: The nearest airport is in Bhuntar (approx 45 km) and the nearest major railway station is in Chandigarh, about 245 km from Thachi valley. The best way to reach Thachi valley is to catch a bus from nearby cities and get down at Aut. From Aut, you can catch the only direct bus to Thachi Valley via Balichowki. Else, you can hire a cab directly from Aut.

 

 

5. Kotkhai

How about experiencing Shimla but not oh-so annoying crowd? Yes, such a tranquil and peaceful place does exist just near Shimla! The secluded village of Kotkhai, about 58 km from Shimla, is the place you got to visit to experience the new Winter in you. Known for its apple orchards and the famous Kotkhai Fort, the village is also home to stunning natural beauty and utterly peaceful environs, which make it a great holiday alternative to Shimla.  

 

Image Courtesy: Zostel

 

Things to do: In winters, Kotkhai receives heavy snow, yet most parts of it are accessible by road. You can enjoy playing in the snow, visit its famed apple orchards, the Kotkhai Fort which is the cultural wonder in the region and explore the nearby hill towns of Cheong, Fagu, and Theog if you have time at hand. However, Kotkhai is a perfect place to enjoy a staycation.

 

How to get there: The nearest airport is in Jubbarhatti (approx 78 km). The nearest railway station is in Shimla at around 60 km. However, traveling by road remains the most common mode of transport. Direct state-run and private bus services are available from nearby cities like Delhi and Chandigarh to Shimla bus stand. From Shimla, you can hire a taxi or take local buses going towards Rohru.

 

 

6. Manali

It may not need any introduction because it’s Manali after all, the favorite place for holidayers as well as winter lovers in India. This destination receives heavy footfall all year round especially during winters because it offers a myriad of adventure activities to be done on snow. The things you can probably get your hands on are skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. The winter months also allows witnessing the culture of Manali in its Winter Carnival. It is held in every February offering delicious Himachali cuisine, folk dances, plays and lots of music to the visitors. If you are willing to do something out of the ordinary, try heli-skiing that required you to jump from a helicopter sliding straight down on a snowy slope. Besides, a visit to Marhi in winters will certainly bowl you over.

 

Image Courtesy: The Sentinental Assam

 

Things to do: Don’t leave Manali without planning an excursion to Rohtang Pass, the unmatchable paradise covered with snow and offering breathtaking grandeur of nature

 

How to get there: By Air -  The nearest airport is at Bhuntar, located approximately 50 kilometers away from Manali. Domestic flights connect Bhuntar with Delhi and Chandigarh. However, owing to weather conditions, flights are not the most reliable option for getting to or out of Manali. By Bus - Manali is very well-connected to important tourist destinations like Leh, Shimla, Kullu, Dharamshala, and New Delhi by means of a network of state-run as well as private buses. The bus journey from Delhi to Manali is 550 kilometers, and it is advisable to book your tickets in the air-conditioned Volvo coaches, as the buses are more comfortable than ordinary ones, keeping in mind the long-distance of the journey. Self Drive - The drive up to Manali is simply breathtaking! You can catch scenic glimpses of the adjoining mountains and valleys from almost every turn that the twisty uphill road throws you in. Though a lot of tourists prefer a self-drive up to Manali, it is advisable to hire a taxi in case you are not comfortable with driving in mountainous regions.

 

 

7. Khajjiar

Khajjiar pleases with its nature’s mystique, scenic charm, and beautiful blend of pisctusquie beauty and adventure. Though the place is blessed with lovely weather all year round, winters in Khajjiar have its own distinctive charm. The snow-covered valley looks ravishing, making it among the best places to visit in December in India.

 

Image Courtesy: The Travelling slacker

 

Things to do: Visit an apple orchard when in Khajjiar and try the juicy fruit straight from the tree. Go to Khajjiar Lake and have a picnic by the lakeside with your family. You can get a spectacular view of Mount Kailash from Khajjiar Grounds. For a thrilling day out, visit Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary to see wildlife species like deer, serow, jackal, leopard, black bear, wild cats and more. This sanctuary also provides some great photo opportunities.

 

How to get there: By Air - Khajjiar does not have any airport. The nearest airport is in Dharamshala called the Gaggal airport, at a distance of about 120 km. By Train - The nearest railway station is located at a distance of about 118 km in Pathankot. Trains from Delhi, Bhatinda and Chandigarh are available till Pathankot. Self Drive - Khajjiar is very well connected by road to all the important towns of Himachal Pradesh including Dalhousie, Shimla and Chamba. State-owned and private buses ply on the route. Alternatively, you can drive from these towns to Khajjiar.

 

 

8. Kalpa

The teensy town in Himachal, Kalpa is one of the best places you’d probably want to visit time and again. Located very close to its district headquarters, Reckong Peo, Kalpa can be expected to be dressed in white during December in India. Since Kalpa is situated at a high altitude, this place becomes fluffier with snow in the months between November and March. This small town is considered to have the cleanest air in India, and since it is away from all that rush of tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh, it looks no less than a land from the fairytale when it comes to winter. Apart from this, small Buddhist monasteries, Hindu temples and the traditional houses and rich culture are the main attractions of Kalpa.

 

Image Coutesy: Wikipedia

 

Things to do: Trek to Chakka, Pay a visit to Suicide Point, Visit Roghi and Kothi village

 

How to get there: By Air - The nearest airport is at Shimla,267 kilometers from Kalpa. By Train - The nearest railway station to the village is again Shimla (260 km). It is one of the major stations connecting to several major cities including Delhi. Self Drive - The HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) has regular bus services from the state Capital Shimla and neighboring states like Delhi, Punjab, etc. Travelers can also take a privately owned bus from Delhi to Kalpa. There are several intra-city bus services you can avail from various neighboring cities within the state.

 

 

9. Auli

India’s premier ski resort destination, Auli in Uttarakhand is located at an average altitude of 2800 meters in the Chamoli district. Offering awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas and covered in coniferous forest and slopes dotted with oak, apple orchard and deodar trees, Auli in the month of December becomes India’s hottest ski destination. Auli is considered to be one of the best places to visit in India in January and February if you are an adventure enthusiast looking for fun in snow and skiing activities. Every year from January till March, several national and international ski festivals are arranged in Auli. If you are a novice or someone looking to learn skiing, GMVN arranges 7-14 days of skiing courses at Auli. An 800-meter long chair lift and a 500-meter ski lift links the lower slopes of Auli to the upper one from where ski professionals embark on an adrenaline rushing dash down the enthralling slopes covered in a sheet of snow.

 

Image Courtesy: Travel Triangle

 

Things to do: Skiing is the must-do adventure when in Auli. In addition to Skiing one can also try Camping, Ropeway Ride, Trekking, Visiting Nanda Devi National Park, Joshimath, Trishul Peak, Hiking, Shopping at the local market, and many more.

 

How to get there: By Air - The nearest airport to Auli is Jolly Grant airport of Dehradun, 149 kilometers from Auli. By Train - The nearest railway station to Auli is the Haridwar railway station which is situated 273 km away from Auli. Dehradun and Rishikesh railway stations are also considered as the nearest railway heads to Auli. Self Drive - You are required to catch a bus or taxi to Joshimath in order to reach Auli. From Joshimath, Auli lies at a distance of 10 km and you need to cover this distance by ropeway or by road.

 

 

10. Mussoorie

Often called the “Queen of Hills”, Mussoorie is located on the foothills of Garhwal Himalayan Ranges in Uttarakhand. Mussoorie is famous throughout as one of the most beautiful and scenic hill towns of India. Pervaded with raw natural beauty, one can even experience moving amid the clouds while taking a walk. December brings out the sleepy romanticism of a hill town. Thus, making it the right getaway for a weekend, romantic honeymoon or family time. One can enjoy cool gush of Kempty falls or can take a walk along the Mall which stretches from Cloud’s End in the west to Rockville in the east or just sit around and soak in the refreshing sunshine for a memorable time off.

 

Image Courtesy: Trip Advisor

 

Things to do: Head to Laal Tibba and Chaar Dukaan for a lovely lookout point from where you can view the actual Laal Tibba peak, Give the crowded Kempty Falls and Bhatta Falls a miss, and go to Mossy Falls instead, No visit to Mussoorie is complete without the legendary cheese omelet served at Lovely Omelette, Landour Bakehouse - A quaint little space in landour. It's built like an old British house - the ambiance is lovely.

 

How to get there: By Air - Jollygrant Airport in Dehradun serves as the nearest airport to Mussoorie. Direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai are available till Dehradun. By Train - Dehradun Railway Station, located around 36 km away serves as the nearest railway station to Mussoorie. Self Drive - A number of state government and private buses connect Mussoorie with nearby places like Delhi, Dehradun and other important towns of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

 

 

11. Nainital

If you happen to travel to Nainital, and that too in December, you dare would not ask for more. A moment to discover yourself, whether it is by spending a solitary time with your special one as the snowflakes gently fall on both of you, or by breathing high in the adrenaline rush of the snow adventure sports, winters are the exceptions, Nainital can make up for you. And you need not worry about the access you can have at that time, as Nainital is amongst the few places in India which is open in every direction throughout the year.

 

Image Courtesy: Wikipedia

 

Things to do: Take a Lake Tour, Eat at Chandani Chowk, Himalaya View from Snow View, Visit the Nainital Zoo, Learn Rock Climbing, Shop at Tibetan Market, Eat at Sonam’s, Get a Desi Head Massage, Row Your Boat, Skating at Zoomland, Trek to China Peak, Watch Sun Disappear at Hanuman Garhi, Attend Sharad Utsav, Sit by the Lakeside

 

How to get there: By Air - Being a hill station, Nainital does not have direct air connectivity. The nearest airport is located at Pantnagar, which lies at a distance of 65 kilometers from Nainital. Most of the air traffic to Pantnagar airport includes private chartered flights. No commercial flights are operating to and from here. By Bus - Nainital enjoys excellent bus connectivity to important destinations in North India. Several tour operators operate daily bus service from New Delhi to Nainital, which includes options like air-conditioned, non-air-conditioned, sleeper and Volvo buses. By Train- The nearest railway station is located at a distance of 34 kilometers at Kathgodham, at the foothills of the Kumaon hills. Self Drive - Nainital is well-linked to all nearby places by a network of well-constructed roads, including National Highway 87, which links it to Rudrapur and Rampur. A 6 to 7-hour drive from New Delhi, Nainital can easily be accessed by road, with a few halts en route.

 

 

12. Khati Village

Last inhabited village in Uttarakhand and a perfect place to find solace! Need an offbeat winter holiday? Visit one of the least traveled yet beautiful destinations in Uttarakhand, Khati Village. Ideal for peace and solitude lovers, it is accessible only through a trek via Dhakuri Pass. In fact, it is the last inhabited village that can be traversed while trekking to Pindari Glacier in the Kumaon Region. The winter vibe of the trek is all about the snow-covered trails with tiny winter flowers and forests covered with sunrays, offering a picture-perfect setting. Besides, the stone houses of the village simply add charm to it. If you are looking for a visit to Khati, go for Pindari Glacier or Sunderdhunga Glacier Valley trek that will pass through dramatic mountain slopes and lush forests covered in snow.

Image Courtesy: TrekEarth

 

Things to do: Khati Village is popular for cycling, mountain biking and nature walks. However, trekking and camping by Pindara River offer delight for all those who love adventure

 

How to get there: ou can hire a cab from Kathgodam Railway Station and takes around 7 – 10 hours to reach Saung Village from where one can start the trek to Loharkhet and next day trek to Khati village via Dhakuri pass and reach Khati and if the road is opened then you can drive to Khati instead of trekking.

 

 

13. Gangtok

Draped in the cover of clouds, nestling beautifully in the cover of Himalayas is this tiny pearl and capital of the state of Sikkim. One of the important administrative centers and tourist destinations, Gangtok is a multicultural, cosmopolitan hub that has a range of all possible amenities for visitors including multiple cuisines, shopping complexes, cyber cafes, pool parlors, and night clubs. Gangtok enjoys strict police administration and outside travelers are enthusiastically welcomed. A great place to chill out throughout the year though in winters the ambiance becomes cool and refreshing. Nathula Pass (Indo-China border) along with Changu Lake, Jakhri Falls, Gurudongmar Lake are some of the exciting and popular tourist destinations. With so many things to do, it doesn’t come as a surprise that Gangtok features as one of the best places to visit in North East India in December.

 

Image Courtesy: Sikkim Tourism

 

Things to do: River Rafting in Teesta, riding a yak at Tsomgo Lake, paragliding, and ropeway cable-ride from Deorali

 

How to get there: By Air - The airport nearest to Gangtok is about 124 kilometers away in Bagdogra, West Bengal. By Train - The nearest railway station to Gangtok is about 148 kilometers away in New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri. The station is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata and New Delhi. From New Jalpaiguri, you can take a taxi to Gangtok or go to Siliguri Bus Station and catch a state-run bus to Gangtok, which will take you about 5-6 hours. 

 

 

14. Zuluk 

A surprise on the Hairpin Route of Sikkim! A small Sikkimese village of Zuluk as unusual the name may sound, the place offers a riveting ambiance for winter adventures. Although the roads here may challenge you during winters making it slippery but once you reach your destination, you’ll thank God for creating such a masterpiece kind of a place. Basically, this hilltop tourist place is a transit point within the Silk Route offering a sight of the 32 dramatic hairpin turns. Most tourists visit Zuluk to catch a glimpse of it and of course experience a ride on this famous road. An ideal place to get a panoramic view of the roads and mighty Kanchenjunga is from Thambi viewpoint. Also, this rare destination is home to one of Sikkim’s sacred Kupup lake and Nag Temple which look dreamlike when covered in snow during winter.

Image Courtesy: Youtube.com

 

Things to do: Witness the sacred lake Kalpokhari Lake, Trek through the various pass and experience the mesmerizing beauty of nature from The Thambi View Point. 

 

How to get there: One can directly reach Zuluk from Bagdogra airport and Jalpaiguri railway station through a 7-8 hour road trip. Another way is to reach Gangtok and from there you can take a shared cabs, bus or government vehicles but in most chances, these are not available so you have to hire a cab that would cost you around anywhere between 6,000 and 8,000 depending upon how good you are at negotiating and how much time you have.

 

 

15. Pelling 

Sikkim’s ultimate trekking and backpacking paradise! The closest view you can get of the Kanchenjunga is from these major tourist places of Pelling unless you’re going to the Kanchenjunga National Park. But if you’re visiting Pelling during December you can expect a different ambience. The winter trekking routes remain open offering different trail guides to some of the popular attractions. Village tours are mainly opted by travelers to Yuksom which requires you to traverse the milky falls of Kanchenjunga. Also, visits to some of the grand monasteries in Sikkim like Sangachoeling and Pemayangtse are not to be missed. Since it is quite close to Dzongri, a lot of adventure-seeking travelers visit Pelling before going to the base camp situated in Yuksom. What’s best is that the Khangchendzonga Festival falls during December making it a great excuse to visit Pelling.

Image Courtesy: Curly Tales

 

Things to do: A short walk to the helipad ground offers brilliant, panoramic views of the stunning Kanchenjunga and its surrounding mountain ranges, Visit Sangachoeling Monastery - the oldest monasteries in Sikkim

 

How to get there: By Air - The nearest airport is at Bagdogra, 160 kilometers away. By Train - The New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station is the closest railhead at a distance of 152 kilometers from Pelling. Self Drive - Pelling is easily accessible by all-weather metalled roads. Other than buses operated by the state transport department, there are shared and private cabs available from all major towns and cities in the region. Pelling is well connected to Gangtok, Siliguri, and Darjeeling by road. The road from Siliguri to Pelling is quite steep and hence it’s advisable to travel by car or Sumo rather than a bus.

 

 

16. Tawang

A place that transports you to the land of your dreams! Somewhere around 3048 meter high, this paradise-like destination of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh offers a spirit-lifting ambiance. It may be one of the coldest places in India but everybody needs to experience it for once. Here, one can witness the mash of Indian and Chinese influence surroundings and of course the Buddhist monasteries that appear to look even more appealing during winters. The major attraction in Tawang is probably the second largest Buddhist monastery in the world, which looks incredibly gorgeous in the winter season. And a sight not to miss is the 8m tall statue of Sakyamuni Buddha located inside the monastery. The Sela Pass Trek from Tawang is widely anticipated by adventurers throughout the year, especially during the winter. It’s fascinating to witness the Sela Lake completely frozen during the month of January and the views from the pass are just bewildering, overlooking the mountaintops.

Image Courtesy: Oyo

 

Things to do: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit some spectacular high-altitude lakes, like Ptso and Sangster, with colorful rhododendrons blooming all around

 

How to get there: By Air - The nearest airport from Tawang is located in Tezpur (Salonibari Airport) at a distance of 387 km. The airport is directly connected to Kolkata and Guwahati through Air India flights. In October 2014, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh Government started a helicopter facility to connect Tawang and Guwahati. The service is available twice a week. By Train - The nearest railway station from Tawang is Rangapara Railway Station, at a distance of 383 km. It is well connected to major cities and towns of North-east India. About 88 stations are directly connected to Rangapara Railway Station. By Road -  The best way to reach Tawang through road is via cab or bus services. Arunachal Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) and other private agencies have introduced regular bus services, most of which connect Tawang to Tezpur (319 km), Bhalukpong (262 km), Nagaon (383 km), Missamari (320 km), East Kameng (381 km), Dhula (420 km), Itanagar (440 km), Sagali (502 km), Udalguri (390 km) and other towns and cities.

 

 

17. Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is to Bangaloreans what Darjeeling is to Kolkatans or what Nainital is to Delhiites. Waterfalls, valleys, meadows, grasslands, forests, and lakes of the quaint hill station of Tamil Nadu make it one of the best places to visit in South India and a perfect winter holiday destination from the peninsula. From cycle rides to yoga, boat rides to treks Kodaikanal has a lot of adventure activity within its heart to offer to its tourists.

 

Image Courtesy: Travel Triangle

 

Things to do: Experience Brocken Spectre at Coakers’ Walk, ride a rowboat or pedalo at Kodaikanal Boat Club, cycle around the Kodai Lake, take a trek to Kukkal Caves, and practice yoga at the Kodaikanal Yoga Centre

 

How to get there: By Air - Madurai International Airport is the nearest to Kodaikanal, approximately 120 km away. By Rail - Kodai Road which is approximately 95 km away is the nearest railhead that links Kodaikanal with cities like Madurai and Trichy. By Road - Kodaikanal is linked by road with several prominent cities, including Bangalore, Trichy, Chennai, Ooty, Coimbatore, and Kumili. From Madurai, it takes less than four hours to reach Kodaikanal via NH 49. Depending upon their budget and requirement, travelers can choose from pocket-friendly state government buses or private luxury buses available from these cities.

 

 

18. Jaisalmer

Exhibiting the rich and colorful Rajasthani culture, the city of Jaisalmer, with its golden sand, exotic havelis and a giant, imposing fort standing in the middle is a sight to behold. The fort, still inhabited by the descendants of original citizens, offers a wealthy tapestry of hues, traditions, customs, attires and cultivation. Referred to as Golden City, the best time to visit Jaisalmer is during the winters when a tourist can expect a safe escape from the dreaded heat of Rajasthan. However, December can be chilly too, so it’s advisable to carry woolens and pullovers during this time.

 

Image Courtesy: Travel Triangle

 

Things to do: Visit the Jaisalmer Fort, Camel Safari in the Sand Dunes, Camping in the Dunes, Bonfire and Stargazing, Photography

 

How to get there: By Air - The nearest airport to Jaisalmer is Jodhpur airport which is situated at a distance of around 275 kilometers. The Jodhpur airport is connected with domestic and international flights to and from major destinations. By Rail - Jaisalmer is connected with various cities through the broad gauge and meter gauge railway tracks. There are direct trains from the cities of Delhi and Jaipur to Jaisalmer. The ‘Palace on Wheels’ also connects Jaisalmer. By Road - Jaisalmer has good road connectivity with various cities of Rajasthan and Gujarat. Several state transport and private buses ply on the routes between these cities.

 

 

19. Maldives

Maldives is an utterly awe-inspiring tourist destination with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, majestic islands, and startling marine life. It lures all types of tourists be it solo travelers, honeymooners, or families to spend a tranquilizing vacation amidst the vast Indian Ocean.

 

Things to do:Go Snorkelling, Get Your PADI (PADI stands for Professional Association of Diving Instructors) Certification and Go Diving, Go for a Ride on a Dhoni, Go Fishing, Try Surfing, Visit Inhabited Islands

 

How to get there: By Air Male International Airport (MLE) is the main airport, which connects the Maldives to all major countries in South-East Asia including India, China and Sri Lanka. There are also direct flights from Dubai, and chartered flights coming in from Europe, China and Singapore.

As compared to other countries, Maldives has a relatively lenient visa policy, as it offers a free 30-day visa on arrival to everyone, which can be extended to a period of 90 days on providing valid proof of sufficient funds and a travel document.

Importing alcohol, pork or pornography (very broadly defined) into the Maldives is forbidden and all luggage is X-rayed on arrival. On the way out, note that exporting sand, seashells or coral is also forbidden.

 

 

20. Bir Billing

Touted to be the best destination for Paragliding in the entire nation, Bir Billing is gradually transforming into a mammoth tourist magnet in the region. With landscapes and views that make you stop, sit, click and soak in the view for some time, you cannot keep yourself from falling in love with this destination at first sight.

Image Courtesy: Yayavar Club

 

Things to do: Paragliding, Camping, Trekking, Hang Gliding, Mountain Biking & Adventure Sports

 

How to get there: By Train - Nearest Railway Station at Pathankot (3 hours away from Bir Billing). By Road - Volvo Coaches and State Coaches available from all major destinations nearby. Ideal For: Adventure enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies.

 

 


These places are a super unique mix of adventure, thrill, and an unspoiled bunch of compelling spots that are yet to be explored and long for your footsteps. Go ahead and treat yourself as you book a holiday in India, and who knows, they too would be waiting to get mesmerized!


FAQ's

Q. What can I expect in terms of expenses on a trip to one of these places?

A. It totally depends on your location and the itinerary you plan for. Getting to a travel agent would make this easier for you. But it is going to be lesser if you plan such a thing for a group of people wherein the cost per person gets divided.

 

Q. I am a solo woman traveler, are these places safe for me?

A. Indeed, these places are safe for solo travelers, men or women, but some precautions and careful discretion is advised at all times.

 

Q. After the article 370 abrogation in Kashmir, is it still safe for travel?

A. Although, the state of Kashmir has allowed tourists by now, for the latest and more accurate info on the same, contact the relevant authorities or the J&K tourism website.

 

Q. Are adventurous getaways suitable for children?

A. With children, if you mean toddlers and infants, then they're not, but for young adults and teens, these places would surely be great for experience.

 

Q. Can I just plan an impromptu trip to these places, pack my bags and leave?

A. You can, but then you might face some issues regarding accommodation and travel arrangements. It is preferable that you plan things in advance before heading to these places.

 

Q. Will there be network connectivity?

A. Again, this depends on the remoteness and the current situation. In places like Srinagar, you may face some connectivity issues and at places like Spiti there may be some blank spots where there's low reception, but more likely, you would not face connectivity issues at large.