Top Winter Destinations Near Delhi for 2025 Getaways

1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

• Distance from Delhi: ~340 km
• Best For: Colonial charm, snowfall, and family trips

Shimla, the queen of hills, transforms into a winter wonderland by December. Expect colonial-era architecture blanketed in snow, bustling cafes, and the ever-iconic Mall Road.

Highlights:

• Ice skating at the open-air rink

• Toy train ride from Kalka

• Kufri day trip for snow sports

2. Auli, Uttarakhand

• Distance from Delhi: ~500 km
• Best For: Skiing and snow adventures

Auli is India’s skiing capital, and winter is when it truly shines. With panoramic Himalayan views and professionally run ski resorts, it’s a paradise for adventure seekers.

Highlights:

• Ski training courses

• Cable car ride from Joshimath

• Gorson Bugyal snow trek

3. Nainital, Uttarakhand

• Distance from Delhi: ~300 km
• Best For: Lakeside serenity and quick getaways

Nainital's frozen lakes and misty hills create a magical winter atmosphere. It’s ideal for families and couples looking for a peaceful break without extreme cold.

Highlights:

• Boat ride in Naini Lake

• Visit to Naina Devi Temple

• Snow View Point cable car

4. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

• Distance from Delhi: ~540 km
• Best For: Snowfall, adventure, and scenic beauty

Manali in winter is nothing short of a snow globe. With Solang Valley offering snowboarding and paragliding, and cafes perfect for lazy mornings, it's an all-in-one retreat.

Highlights:

• Rohtang Pass (if open)

• Solang Valley snow activities

• Hot springs at Vashisht

5. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand

• Distance from Delhi: ~280 km
• Best For: Quiet, offbeat travel

This lesser-known hill station is perfect for travelers seeking peace and privacy. Pine forests, heritage churches, and chilly air make it a winter gem.

Highlights:

• Bhulla Tal Lake

• St. Mary’s Church

• Garhwal Rifles Regimental Museum

6. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

• Distance from Delhi: ~240 km
• Best For: Spiritual retreats and riverside vibes

Though not snowy, Rishikesh offers the perfect winter balance—cool days, cozy nights, and riverside charm. Ideal for yoga, wellness retreats, and bonfire evenings.

Highlights:

• Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat

• Yoga ashrams

• Riverside camping and rafting

7. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

• Distance from Delhi: ~290 km
• Best For: Honeymooners and scenic views

Known as the “Queen of the Hills,” Mussoorie gets a soft dusting of snow in peak winter. Walk along Camel’s Back Road with views of the Doon Valley below.

Highlights:

• Gun Hill ropeway

• Kempty Falls

• Cozy hillside cafes

8. Chakrata, Uttarakhand

• Distance from Delhi: ~330 km
• Best For: Hidden gems and untouched beauty

Chakrata is a secluded spot ideal for travelers who enjoy offbeat, crowd-free destinations. The temperature drops steeply in winter, offering stunning icy views.

Highlights:

• Tiger Falls

• Deoban Forest

• Budher Caves exploration

9. Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand

• Distance from Delhi: ~320 km
• Best For: Budget-friendly snow fun

This small town near Mussoorie gets decent snowfall and is perfect for budget travelers. With eco-parks, camping sites, and views of the Garhwal Himalayas, it’s winter bliss.

Highlights:

• Eco Park

• Apple orchards

• Snow camping

10. Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

• Distance from Delhi: ~520 km
• Best For: Nature, riverside stays, and trout fishing

Tirthan remains untouched by commercial tourism. It’s best for those who want to experience raw Himachali winter with riverside cabins and misty mountains.

Highlights:

• Great Himalayan National Park

• Trout fishing

• Bonfire evenings

Final Thoughts: Your Winter Story Awaits

When the plains of Delhi turn foggy and grey, the mountains come alive with magic. Whether you dream of snow-dusted pine forests, sipping hot cocoa by a fireplace, or waking up to Himalayan sunrises — these winter getaways near Delhi are your perfect escape in 2025.

From the romance of Mussoorie to the adventure of Auli and the hidden charm of Chakrata, there's a winter story waiting just a few hours from home. All you have to do is pack a warm jacket, charge your camera, and hit the road.