India’s winter season is the perfect time to plan a cozy and memorable family getaway. From snowy hill stations to vibrant desert festivals, there’s a destination for every type of traveler. With SavePlus India’s expert tips, offers, and discounts, you’ll enjoy both magical moments and incredible savings on travel, stays, and shopping.

Manali – Himachal’s Winter Wonderland

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Manali offers a snowy escape ideal for Indian families craving cold weather fun. December to February blankets this town in snow, making it a winter paradise. From snowball fights in Solang Valley to shopping on Mall Road, everything here feels magical. The crisp air and pine-scented winds complete the experience. Adventure lovers and relaxed vacationers both find their joy. This hill station beautifully balances thrill and tranquility for all ages.

• Solang Valley becomes a winter carnival with skiing, snowboarding, and sledding for all skill levels, offering both thrill and safety for children and adults.
  
  
• Hadimba Devi Temple stands amid tall cedar trees, offering a spiritual yet scenic experience with peaceful walks ideal for multi-generational families.
  
  
• Manali’s Mall Road is perfect for buying woollens, Tibetan artifacts, and sipping on hot momos while browsing local winter fashion stalls.

Cost: ₹25,000 for a 4-day family trip

Pro Tip: Use MakeMyTrip promo codes from SavePlus India for bundled hotel + sightseeing deals.

Shimla – Colonial Touch with a Snowy Twist

Shimla’s Victorian charm comes alive in winter with snow-capped rooftops and horse-drawn carriages. The toy train from Kalka to Shimla is a nostalgic journey through winding tracks. Children love Kufri’s adventure park, while parents enjoy the leisurely pace of Ridge walks. The winter chill adds warmth to family moments. Local bazaars brim with handcrafted souvenirs and woollen shawls. A perfect mix of history, comfort, and fun, Shimla suits all generations.

• The Kalka–Shimla Toy Train offers stunning hill views and is a UNESCO-listed heritage ride ideal for slow travel with kids.
  
  
• Kufri’s snow park entertains with ziplining, tube sliding, and pony rides, creating lasting memories for younger travelers.
  
  
• Lakkar Bazaar is lined with shops selling wooden toys, hand-knitted socks, and Himachali artifacts perfect for gifts and winter use.

Cost: ₹20,000 for 3 nights

Pro Tip: Buy warm layers beforehand using Amazon India winterwear offers for added savings.

Auli – Skiing & Snowboard Capital of India

Auli in Uttarakhand is India’s best-kept winter secret. Its powdery slopes and scenic surroundings are a haven for ski lovers and nature seekers alike. Families can take basic skiing lessons or enjoy snow treks around Gorson Bugyal. The lack of commercial crowd makes it peaceful yet packed with adventure. With snow from late December to March, it’s ideal for a unique vacation. Cable car rides and views of Nanda Devi add to the charm.

• Learn to ski with beginner-friendly sessions conducted by government-certified instructors to ensure fun and safety for kids and adults.
  
  
• Take the ropeway from Joshimath to Auli to witness panoramic Himalayan ranges in a thrilling 25-minute cable car experience.
  
  
• Stay at eco-resorts or GMVN guesthouses that offer bonfires and snow views, perfect for relaxed family evenings.

Cost: ₹28,000 for 4 days

Pro Tip: Book ski packages on Cleartrip using wallet cashback offers for maximum value.

Jaipur – Royal Getaway with Sunny Winters

For families that prefer mild winters over snow, Jaipur offers the perfect royal escape. The Pink City glows in soft winter sunlight, making sightseeing enjoyable without the heat. Explore majestic forts, walk through heritage havelis, and shop in bustling bazaars. The city’s winter festivals and light shows appeal to all ages. Street food lovers and culture buffs find endless indulgence here. It’s Rajasthan’s warm hug during India’s coldest months.

• Visit Amer Fort for elephant rides and history walks where children can learn about Rajput valor in an interactive setting.
  
  
• Shop at Johari and Bapu Bazaar for mirrorwork kurtas, Rajasthani quilts, and handcrafted jewellery at bargain prices.
  
  
• Try local winter cuisine like bajra roti and gatte ki sabzi that warms the soul and is light on the pocket.

Cost: ₹18,000 for 3 nights

Pro Tip: Avail Paytm cashback offers on entry tickets and local shopping payments.

Darjeeling – Chai, Chill & Toy Train Thrill

Darjeeling, perched in the Eastern Himalayas, offers a chilly yet charming family holiday. The town’s panoramic views, lush tea gardens, and colonial architecture are captivating. Its toy train remains a top draw for children and nostalgic adults. Explore monasteries, take a tea plantation walk, and shop for woollens. The slower pace helps families unwind from city chaos. With clear skies and warm cups of tea, winter here is pure magic.

• Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway from Ghum to Darjeeling for breathtaking views and a heritage experience for all ages.
  
  
• Explore Peace Pagoda and local monasteries that offer cultural exposure and quiet serenity ideal for reflective family time.
  
  
• Try aromatic teas straight from plantations and pick up locally made chocolates and scarves as souvenirs.

Cost: ₹22,000 for 4 days

Pro Tip: Use Yatra promo codes for early bird hotel and train bookings.

Rann of Kutch – India’s Great White Desert

Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch turns into a vibrant canvas during the Rann Utsav. This winter-only event features folk music, tent stays, crafts, and camel rides. Families can watch moonrise over the white salt flats for a surreal experience. The carnival is child-friendly and culturally rich. Shop local crafts, attend workshops, or just stargaze from your tent. The desert chill at night adds to the thrill.

• Stay in luxury tents or budget camps at Dhordo village with meals, performances, and folk dance included in packages.
  
  
• Take camel rides across salt plains under moonlight while enjoying traditional storytelling by local artists.
  
  
• Shop mirrorwork apparel, leather bags, and hand-painted pottery straight from local artisans at fair prices.

Cost: ₹30,000 for 3 nights

Pro Tip: Book through official Rann Utsav site with SBI card offers for bundled savings.

Goa – Beachside Bliss with a Festive Spark

Goa isn’t just about nightlife — its sunny beaches and festive spirit are great for families too. Winter here means open-air markets, seafood shacks, and Christmas magic. Explore Old Goa churches lit up during Christmas. Families can go on dolphin rides or cycle along rice paddies. With fewer mosquitoes and no humidity, it’s perfect for toddlers and elders alike.

• Celebrate Christmas at Basilica of Bom Jesus and attend local nativity plays performed in Konkani and English.
  
  
• Relax at Palolem or Agonda beaches that offer family-friendly waters and less commercial crowd.
  
  
• Enjoy Goan cuisine at beachside shacks serving fish thali, prawn curry, and bebinca for dessert.

Cost: ₹26,000 for 4 days

Pro Tip: Shop beachwear using Ajio’s winter clearance sales with extra coupons.

Tawang – Snow, Monasteries & Scenic Drives

Located in Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is the ultimate offbeat winter experience. Covered in snow from November to March, it offers monasteries, frozen lakes, and mountain treks. Families that enjoy silence, scenic views, and culture will love it. It’s great for bonding with fewer distractions. Travel here involves a bit of planning but pays off in pristine beauty. Warm hospitality makes it even better.

• Visit Tawang Monastery, the second-largest in the world, for its rich heritage and peaceful atmosphere.
  
  
• Play near Sela Lake, often frozen in winter, where snowball fights and scenic photos are a must.
  
  
• Drive through Bum La Pass with special permits and experience India-China border from a family-friendly zone.

Cost: ₹35,000 for 5 days

Pro Tip: Reach via Guwahati and use IRCTC Rail Connect offers for affordable travel.

Udaipur – Regal Romance & Lakefront Luxury

Udaipur’s lakes, palaces, and mild winters create an ideal setting for elegant family holidays. Known as the City of Lakes, it’s romantic yet relaxed. Families can enjoy slow-paced boat rides, heritage walks, and puppet shows. With rooftop cafes and lakeside resorts, it’s perfect for multigenerational bonding. The food, scenery, and crafts create a wholesome holiday.

• Boat across Lake Pichola and enjoy views of City Palace, Jag Mandir, and surrounding hills lit at dusk.
  
  
• Explore City Palace Museum with audio guides for kids and elders alike to understand royal Rajasthan.
  
  
• Visit Shilpgram during winter festivals for folk dances, arts, and hands-on craft shopping.

Cost: ₹20,000 for 3 nights

Pro Tip: Buy ethnic outfits on Myntra’s festive sale using SBI or HDFC card offers.

Ooty – South India’s Winter Gem

Ooty gives southern families a slice of winter charm without traveling far north. Known for its botanical beauty, toy train, and chocolates, it's ideal for young families. The cool breeze and misty mornings offer perfect photo ops. Ride the Nilgiri toy train or visit a tea factory together. The markets are packed with woollens and handmade goods. It’s charming, easy to reach, and never too cold.

• Take the heritage Nilgiri Mountain Railway from Mettupalayam to Ooty for a winding, picturesque ride through forests and tunnels.
  
  
• Visit the Rose Garden and Botanical Garden to teach kids about flora while enjoying scenic picnic spots.
  
  
• Shop for eucalyptus oil, spices, and homemade chocolates in Charing Cross market at budget-friendly rates.

Cost: ₹18,000 for 3 days

Pro Tip: Shop winter gear via PhonePe SuperStore with UPI discounts on seasonal products.

Kufri – A Winter Wonderland for Family Thrill

Kufri, a small hill station near Shimla, transforms into a snowy paradise during winter. Ideal for families seeking snow adventures, Kufri offers fun-filled activities like skiing, tobogganing, and snow trails. Its scenic beauty and proximity to Shimla make it a great combo trip. The amusement park and yak rides delight kids and adults alike. Kufri is also budget-friendly and easy to access.

• Enjoy yak rides and snow tubing in the white slopes surrounded by pine trees and scenic valleys, giving you an unforgettable Himalayan memory.
  
  
• Visit the Kufri Fun World, which is one of the highest amusement parks and offers snow rides, go-karts, and panoramic views.
  
  
• Hike through snow-laden forest trails and spot rare Himalayan wildlife at the nearby Himalayan Nature Park.

Cost: ₹13,000 to ₹18,000 for 2 nights (including stay, travel, and local activities)

Pro Tip: Book toy train tickets to Shimla early via IRCTC for a scenic and budget ride from Kalka, and use Cleartrip or MakeMyTrip promo codes for bundled hotel deals.

Coonoor – The Serene Winter Escape in South India

Coonoor is the quieter cousin of Ooty and perfect for families who want a relaxing winter holiday without tourist crowds. Nestled in the Nilgiris, it offers colonial charm, tea estates, and panoramic landscapes. The cool weather during winter makes walking through the hills a pleasure. With toy trains, botanical gardens, and local bakeries, Coonoor offers a slow and peaceful vacation.

• Take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway ride through tunnels and tea estates for a charming old-world experience with your family.
  
  
• Visit the Sim’s Park, a botanical garden with over 1,000 plant species, and a peaceful lake ideal for boat rides.
  
  
• Sip freshly brewed tea at local plantations and shop for handmade chocolates and aromatic oils from local vendors.

Cost: ₹9,500 to ₹14,000 for 3 days (including stay, food, and toy train)

Pro Tip: Use Paytm flight offers for Coimbatore tickets and combine with Ajio winterwear discounts before you travel.

Mount Abu – Rajasthan’s Winter Surprise

Mount Abu is Rajasthan’s only hill station and a pleasant winter retreat with cool temperatures and vibrant attractions. Ideal for families looking for a mix of culture and nature, it offers temples, lakes, and wildlife. The Nakki Lake, Toad Rock, and Dilwara Temples are major draws. Winter festivals add local color and a joyful spirit to this peaceful town.

• Paddle boat with your kids at Nakki Lake surrounded by Aravalli peaks, and explore nearby market streets for souvenirs.
  
  
• Visit the Dilwara Temples, marvels of Jain architecture that offer both cultural learning and historical interest for all ages.
  
  
• Enjoy the Winter Festival held in December with folk dance, fireworks, and local delicacies adding a festive vibe.

Cost: ₹10,000 to ₹16,000 for 2 nights (inclusive of lodging, food, and activities)

Pro Tip: Look for SBI or ICICI card discounts on Yatra for winter bookings and use Amazon India travel gear coupons for budget buys.

Conclusion

India’s winters are perfect for bonding, exploring, and memory-making with your family. From snowy adventures in Auli to beachside bliss in Goa, there’s a winter escape for everyone. And with SavePlus India’s exclusive discounts, promo codes, and shopping hacks, you don’t need to spend a fortune. Start planning your family getaway and experience winter the smart way!

FAQ

What is the cheapest winter destination in India for families?
Shimla and Ooty are great budget picks with multiple stay options and local transport ease.

When is the best time to book winter travel in India?
Book 6–8 weeks in advance during Flipkart’s Big Billion Days or Amazon Great Indian Festival for the best travel deals.

How can I get the best discounts on hotels?
Use MakeMyTrip and Cleartrip promo codes from SavePlus India. Combine with credit card offers for extra cashback.

Are there any hidden fees on travel booking platforms?
Always read the fine print on wallet offers, no-cost EMI options, and GST inclusions.

Which cards give the best travel discounts in India?
SBI, HDFC, and ICICI credit cards regularly offer up to 10% off during major e-commerce sales.