5 places to enjoy winter in India

From private spaces for quiet moments by the fireplace to ski resorts with breathtaking views, these winter vacation spots will give you exactly what you need.

1. The Taara House, Manali, Himachal Pradesh

The Taara House is one those places you day dream about on tiresome days in your office cubicle or stuck in traffic inhaling fumes. We are happy to inform you that the dream is a wood and glass reality with a view of snowy peaks and pine forests. On a 6600 ft hilltop, this holiday home owned and designed by Tanya Palta has all wooden interiors and a glass conservatory too. Moreover, the two-bedroom cottage is made of recycled wood, and there is nothing more exciting to us than beautiful spaces with a conscience. Whether it is adrak chai in the top-level garden or a luscious Merlot under the stars in the glass house, there is a perfect spot on the property to enjoy whatever you may be in the mood for.

Website: www.taarahouse.com

2. The Kumaon, Almora, Uttarakhand

If ‘influencer’ as a concept existed in the past, this small town in Uttarakhand would have come recommended by some of the best. From Swami Vivekanad and DH Lawrence to Bob Dylan and Cat Stevens, they all spent time in this corner of the Kumaon Hills. While you may or may not be the creative or spiritual type, but if you love nature, tranquility and luxury you will not be able to find a better spot to unwind than The Kumaon. At 1600 meters above sea level, the hotel is more like a sanctuary. Gaze in awe out of the cantilevered dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows at the Himalayan peaks or enjoy the bamboo clad interiors of your luxury suites. There is a lot to explore around town on foot, so make sure you carry your trainers. 

Website: www.thekumaon.com

3. The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

If breathtaking views are your non-negotiable on winter holidays then this Kashmiri beauty is the one you have been pining for. Spread over seven acres of a sylvan coniferous forest, the stunning scenery of snow-clad mountains and massive pine trees is allowed to be the piece de resistance of your experience at The Khyber. A perfect spot also for those who like their holidays to be dotted with activities, the slopes make it an ideal skiing destination. The delicious Kashmiri cuisine, the spa by L’Occitaine and an indoor heated pool are just the remaining ingredients you need to make this the perfect winter holiday for you and your family.

Website: www.khyberhotels.com

4. La Belle Vie Naukuchiatal, Nainital, Uttarakhand

If you are planning a winter getaway with your posse then the hosts of this beautiful home will happily accommodate up to 10 people. The host Rupam is an artist and designer himself and has created a calming space made with reclaimed wood and natural stone in the middle of the forest, just 100 meters to the Naukuchiatal Lake. Bring some wine, cheese and speakers and you can have your own private party every evening.

Website: www.airbnb.com

5. JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

This is one those properties that once you check in, will give you very little reason to step out. An area called The Den is equipped with a bowling alley, pool tables and gaming consoles for the entertainment of your kids, while parents can head to the L’Occitane spa with their luxurious signature treatments. There are four restaurants, including Asian and Italian so that there is something for every kind of palate. The hotel also arranges farm walks, salsa lessons and cooking demos and has a bicycling track with bikes for rent. 

Website: www.marriott.com