Winter splits India into two striking moods. In the north, the temperature drops below zero, and the mountains shine under a fresh snowfall. In the south, the highlands turn comfortably cool — perfect for late breakfasts, soft sun, and slow days wrapped in woollens. It’s the ideal time to trade city traffic for fresh air and altitude. Here are the best hill stations in India to visit in winter.
1. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Coonoor becomes calm and contemplative in winter. Tea estates glow in silver morning light, and evenings feel tailor-made for a cup of Nilgiri tea. Daytime temperatures range from 10 °C to 18°C — perfect for taking long walks and engaging in conversations.
❄︎ Winter Highlights
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway
- Winter tea tasting at heritage factories
- Clear viewpoints: Dolphin’s Nose, Lamb’s Rock
- Intimate cafés and antique shopping
👤 Best For
Travellers who love slow living and nature at a leisurely pace.
📅 When to Visit
December–February.
📍Best Stay In Coonoor
2. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Bright days, cool nights, and crisp Western Ghats views. Strawberry farms come alive, and sunset hour paints the escarpments gold. Temperatures between 12 and 20°C keep the mood active and cheerful.
❄︎ Winter Highlights
- Fresh strawberries with cream
- Sunset views from Arthur’s Seat
- Forest trails through pines and silver oaks
- Calm lakesides and slower markets
👤 Best For
A relaxed winter drive from Mumbai or Pune.
📅 When to Visit
December–February.
📍 Best stay in Mahabaleshwar
3. Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
A high-altitude city rather than a hill station — but winter is its finest season. Snow settles by Dal Lake, chinar trees turn sculptural, and silence takes over. Nights dip below 0°C.
❄︎ Winter Highlights
- Still-water shikara rides
- Mughal Gardens in the snow
- Kahwa and fresh winter breads
- Day trips to snowy Gulmarg
👤 Best For
Honeymooners and culture-focused travellers.
📅 When to Visit
December–February.
📍 Best stay in Srinagar
4. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Winter sharpens the skyline here. The Himalayas feel close enough to touch. With 4–15°C days, mornings shine and evenings call for hot chocolate.
❄︎ Winter Highlights
- Camel’s Back Road at sunset
- Charming Landour: bakeries and bookshops
- Valley views lit up after dark
- Weekday strolls with little interruption
👤 Best For
Couples and families who adore a gentle winter town.
📅 When to Visit
December–February.
📍 Best stay in Mussoorie
5. Lonavala & Khandala, Maharashtra
The Sahyadris remain lush without the chaos of the monsoon. 9–18°C days make road trips rewarding and evenings pleasantly cool.
❄︎ Winter Highlights
- Clear-sky views at Rajmachi and Kune
- Terrace brunches that stretch into late afternoon
- Lion’s Point at twilight
- Weekdays that feel like a private escape
👤 Best For
Groups who want an easy winter break from Mumbai/Pune.
📅 When to Visit
December–February.
Best stay in Lonavala
6. Coorg / Kodagu, Karnataka
Cool breezes, coffee aromas, and soft morning mist. 11–20°C weather keeps things pleasant — never harsh.
❄︎ Winter Highlights
- Plantation walks
- Coorgi flavours and roasted coffee
- Quiet riverside corners
- Gentle ridge hikes with clean horizons
👤 Best For
Food lovers and relaxed travellers who enjoy nature with comfort.
📅 When to Visit
December–February.
📍Best stay in Coorg
Your Winter in the Hills Starts Here
Snow up north. Superb comfort down south. Choose what winter means to you:
- Silence and snow — Srinagar, Pahalgam
- Culture and cafés — Mussoorie
- Quick escapes — Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala–Khandala
- Slow mornings — Coonoor, Coorg
Pick a place that lets you pause — and a stay that makes winter feel personal. The views will wait for you in the morning. Winter doesn’t last long. Plan now, before the season passes.
Choose Your Hill Station. Book via Lohono Today.
Secure the stay that matches your winter mood — before the best views are taken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pahalgam (with Gulmarg day trips) is best for beginners because of the easy snow access and good local guidance.
Thermals, a warm jacket, gloves, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a power bank.
Yes — start early, check local advisories, and avoid driving after dark.
Weekends in snow destinations can get busy. For quieter escapes, choose Coorg or Coonoor.
Mahabaleshwar and Lonavala–Khandala are your best options from Mumbai/Pune, while Mussoorie is a good choice from Delhi-NCR. Coonoor is a suitable option from Bengaluru.
