The Most Exciting Winter Resorts In India

The Most Exciting Winter Resorts In India

Let us love winter,since it is Spring of genius.Come hail, rain or snow, those of us with wheels on our heels don't allow the harsh cold to ground our travel plans. Whether you're planning a skiing vacation to the snowy slopes of Gulmarg in Kashmir, or you're heading out for some quiet mountain time to Darjeeling in the north east—check in at the country's premier winter resorts for a stay that's luxurious, charming and atmospheric. From a restored palace converted into a hotel, to a decadent hill-top property that was once home to British aristocracy—here are India's most luxurious winter resorts.

THE HIMALAYAN RESORT, KASHMIR

Popularly referred to as 'paradise on earth', Kashmir has a history that dates to back more than 2000 years, and a culture that's equally interesting. With tourism being a major contributor to its economy, it is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country—for both international and domestic tourists—and rightly so. With beautiful snow-capped mountains, deep green valleys, vast lakes and blossoming gardens, one day in the valley needs to be well-planned. We guide you through the maze to help you make the most of your trip.

KASMANDA PALACE HOTEL, MUSSOORIE

One of the oldest structures in Mussoorie, Kasmanda Palace Hotel was built back in 1836 and was once part of the Christ Church complex when it served the purpose of a sanatorium for the British army and later as a school before it became the summer home to the royal family of Kasmanda in 1915. Designed in the Anglo-French style of architecture, this stately mansion has today been converted into a heritage hotel owned and run by the same family, and houses 24 bedrooms. Spread over three acres of rolling green lawns with beautifully tended gardens, this regal hotel blends old-world charm with modern amenities and offers solitude away from the chaos. The in-house restaurant called Magnolia (named after the beautiful tree that can be seen beyond the windows) has a multi-cuisine menu and can dish out special Rajasthani fare on request. The service is excellent, and all major tourist attraction are a short drive away.

WILDFLOWER HALL, SIMLA

Nestled in the mighty Himalayas, 8000 feet above sea level, Wildflower Hall is a luxury resort set amidst 23 acres of pine and cedar woods. The former residence of Lord Kitchener, rebuilt to a new magnificence, Wildflower Hall recreates the grand style of the colonial era, with its wood panelling, teak wood floors, hand-knotted rugs and rich furnishings. Its plush rooms offer beautiful views of the garden or the surrounding mountains. The hotel is also famous for its spectacular heated and infinity-edge swimming pools, an excellent spa and a fitness centre. For those seeking adventure, the resort offers guided treks, river rafting and mountain bicycling. Guests can enjoy pan-Asian and European cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant, which has an open-air terrace with panoramic views of the mountains.