Since winter is approaching in Northern India, the western part of the country appears to be a more appealing destination. While the entire Northern region will be blanketed in mist and snow, the Western states will be celebrating Sunburn Festivals, Rafting Expeditions, Water Sports, Rann Utsav, and a variety of other large and small events. So, if you’re still undecided about where to go in India this winter, our list of the best places to visit in West India can help you decide.
1. Rann of Kutch
The Little Rann of Kutch, which contains India’s largest wild sanctuary, and the Great Rann of Kutch, which contains the famous white salt desert, are two distinct regions. The Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary occupies the majority of the Little Rann of Kutch, so this trip will be primarily focused on wildlife. The sanctuary is home to endangered Ghudkar, Blue-Bull, Chinkara, Hedgehog, and carnivores such as Panther, Wolf, Jackal, Fox, Jungle, and Desert Cats, in addition to the rare India wild ass. The sanctuary’s avian species include the Houbara Bustard, Falcons, Cranes, and Flamingos.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
2. Dwarka
If you’ve been putting off your trip to Dwarka because of the heat, now is the best time to visit the Kingdom of Lord Krishna! Dwarka, located on the western tip of the Kathiawar Peninsula, is more of a pilgrimage destination than a tourist destination. There is a strong sense of divinity here, and one can definitely sense inner peace. So, if you’re looking for a unique destination, Dwarka is the place to go! Although Dwarka has many attractions to see, such as the famous Dwarkanath Temple, the Lighthouse, and Sharanam, the real appeal is simply being there and contemplating the surroundings. Dwarka is divine, and should be seen at least once in one’s lifetime!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
3. Mumbai
Mumbai is the city of dreams, and whoever said that was absolutely correct! And you’ll realize the same thing once you’ve cut and run through Mumbai’s perilous alleyways. Mumbai also provides visitors with the opportunity to sample Maharashtra’s delectable cuisine, not to mention the city’s famous street food. Shop until you drop on Fashion Street or at Colaba, where you’ll discover the secret to cheap shopping. Mumbai has many faces, each of which is delightful!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
4. Junagarh
Junagarh, a historical city in Gujarat’s beautiful state, is one of the best places to visit in West India. Junagarh Fort, for example, is a timeless monument in the city. Allow yourself to be awestruck by the architectural brilliance and document each moment with your camera. Junagadh articulately describes Gujarat’s rich culture and allows you to glimpse the traditions that distinguish the state from others. For any history buff, a trip to Junagadh can be an exhilarating experience that will give them even more reasons to be proud of their homeland, India. Junagarh’s main attractions include the Mahabat Maqbara, Durbar Hall Museum, Narsinh Mehta’s Choro, Mount Girnar, Upperkot Fort, Jama Masjid, and Ashoka’s Rock Edicts.
Image Source: Daniel Mennerich (flickr)
5. Somnath
Another gem from West India, Somnath is truly magical. It’s a small, pleasant destination where pilgrims seem to flock regardless of the season. Somnath is located 80 kilometers from Jungadh, near Veraval. This small town, which is known as one of Lord Shiva’s important Jyotirlingas, can be a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Somnath is so small that it is possible to walk around the entire town. The city is dotted with temples, each of which offers a unique experience. Some of the best places to visit in Somnath include the Somnath Temple, Bhalka Tirth and Prabas Pata Museum, Lakshminarayan Temple, Panch Pandav Gufa, Kamnath Mahadeva Temple, and Gita Temple.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
6. Gir National Park
You’ve arrived at one of the few places to visit in West India where you can see Asiatic lions. Gir National Park, India’s proud lion habitat, has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gir is a must-see national park in India, located 360 kilometers from Ahmedabad. Gir is home to leopards, Sambar and spotted deer (chital), blue bull (nilgai), chousingha (the world’s only four-horned antelope), chinkara (Indian gazelle), and wild boar, in addition to the Asiatic Lion. Other mammals found in Gir include the jackal, striped hyena, jungle cat, rusty-spotted cat, langur, porcupine, and black-naped Indian hare. There are also 250 different bird species, making it an ideal spot for bird watching in West India.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
7. Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer, Rajasthan’s Golden City, is unquestionably one of the most famous places to visit in West India. This region of Rajasthan is located in the Thar Desert, and it combines the allure of velvet sand dunes with the state’s vibrant culture. You can spend your time in Jaisalmer doing exciting activities like dune bashing, camel safaris, and desert camping. Yes, desert camping in Jaisalmer is an unforgettable experience with all the comforts of home.
Source: Ninara (Flickr)
Source: Well-Bred Kannan (flickr)
8. Udaipur
Udaipur is known as the “Venice of the East,” but the city’s various Rajasthani hues make it stand out. On your list of best places to visit in West India, you must include the City of Lakes. Even though Udaipur is home to some of the most opulent luxury heritage hotels, it will welcome you with open arms even if you’re on a budget. Boating, hiking, and sightseeing are just a few of the activities available during your stay in the city.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
9. Goa
Without a doubt, Goa is one of the first few famous places to visit in West India to visit when you’re in your twenties. Young and vivacious! Goa is one of the best holiday destinations in India, with amazing nightlife, a wide variety of booze, beach shacks, and dirt cheap prices. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Goa, a cruise from Mumbai to Goa is a great way to start your vacation.
Image Source: Pavel Volkov (Flickr)
10. Diu
Diu has become one of the famous places to visit in West India, particularly among Gujaratis. It is one of India’s most beautiful beach destinations, and the best part is that it is still unspoiled by commercialization. Diu, with its pristine beauty, is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The city is best known for combining tradition and modernity. Diu is a small town with some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet, who value peace and hospitality. Bunder Chowk, Fort, Panikota, St. Paul’s Church, INS Kukri, Nagoa beach, Jalandhar beach, and Ghoghla beach are just a few of the attractions in Diu.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
11. Jodhpur
The Mehrangarh Fort, a massive hill fort in Jodhpur, or the Blue City of Rajasthan, will entice you. From this vantage point, you can see the city’s blue-washed landscape. The interiors transport you to another time period. The city’s cobblestone streets capture the essence of Rajasthan in all its glory.
Image Source: Laurent (Flickr)
12. Daman
Daman had remained a lesser-known spot on India’s map for decades, but it has recently emerged as a big deal in a small package. And, if you’re planning a trip to West India, we believe Daman is a good option! It’s a small port in the Gulf of Cambhat, about 12 kilometers from Vapi. It’s a great place for sunbathers and swimmers. There are several monuments and churches to visit, as well as two major beaches. Tourists flock to St. Jerome Fort, Old Fort, Church of Our Lady of the Sea, Jain Temple, Fort, Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, Devka Beach, and Jampore Beach.
Source: Wikimedia
13. Aurangabad
Aurangabad, known for the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, is a significant site in India’s heritage. And, yes, it is the same location where you can see Bibi Ka Maqbara, a replica of the famous Taj Mahal. A trip through history adds to the allure of being in a country with a rich history, and we believe there is no better place to do so than Aurangabad. Bibi Ka Maqbara, Aurangabad Caves, Panchakki, and Darwaza are just a few of the sights to see in Aurangabad. Aurangabad is best visited in the winter because it is otherwise very hot.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Source: Flickr
14. Pune
Apart from Mumbai, Pune is Maharashtra’s second most popular tourist destination. Pune, one of the vivacious places to visit in West India, invites the young at heart to enter a land brimming with fun and adventure. Along with being Maharashtra’s modern face, the city also shines a light on the state’s illustrious past. Shaniwarwada, Shinde Chhatri, and Vishrambaug Wada are some of the monuments that can be found here. There are many restaurants in the city that serve the best Maharashtrian cuisine. Pune, a cheerful city, is capable of providing tourists with an entirely new kind of Indian experience.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
15. Lonavla
Lonavala, which is only 3 kilometers from Khandala, is another wonderful place to visit during the winter. The cool breeze and the view of the mountains are two things that you will remember about Lonavala. You should come here because of its unpolluted environment and undisturbed serenity. Lonavala’s main attractions include Lohgarh Fort, Tiger Point, Lion Point, Tungarli Lake, Karla Caves, and Korigad Fort. Hiking is one of the best things to do in Lonavla; however, if you’re looking for something a little more exciting, the recently opened Della Adventure Park has it all!
Source: Wikipedia
16. Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar, considered one of the most beautiful places to visit in West India, is one of the rejuvenating retreats that the Western Ghats has to offer. Your visit to Mahabaleshwar will be engulfed in mist and guided by the clouds, from cascading waterfalls to lush green ghats.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
17. Mount Abu
Mount Abu is Rajasthan’s only hill station. Because of its location on the Aravali Range, the climate here is cool. In fact, Mount Abu contains the highest peak in the Aravallis. The hill station is situated on a plateau surrounded by lush green forest and offers spectacular views of the plains beneath it. There are several specific viewpoints to enjoy these picturesque sights, including Honeymoon Point and Sunset Point. Mount Abu’s Nakki Lake is a popular spot for boating.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
18. Pushkar
Pushkar, a bustling town on the outskirts of the Thar Desert, is a significant religious site and the home of the world-famous Pushkar Mela, which attracts visitors from all over the world during the festival. The town is located on the banks of the Pushkar Lake, which has 52 ghats (stone staircases) where pilgrims perform rituals and take holy baths. Although there are hundreds of temples in Pushkar, the Jagatpita Brahma Mandir is the most popular. The temple was built in the 14th century and features unique architectural features. Activities to Try: Spend time at Pushkar Lake, visit temples, and attend festivals.
Image Source: Nidhi Srivastava (Flickr)
19. Khandala
This lovely spot in Maharashtra has long been a popular vacation spot. This beautiful Sahyadri hill station is a nature lover’s paradise and offers some gorgeous places to see. It is known for its healthy climate and Kune Waterfall, which is one of the best waterfalls to visit in India. The major attractions in Khandala include Pavana Lake, Rajmachi Fort, Bhaja Caves, Lohagad Fort, Shooting Point, Nagphani (Duke’s Nose), and Reversing Station. A quiet stroll through the alleys is one of the best ways to discover Khandala’s true charm. And, when you get there, don’t forget to get a little crazy and do a little gig on Aati Kya Khandala!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
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20. Panchgani
If only one word could be used to describe Panchgani, it would be ‘GORGEOUS.’ Panchgani is a small hill station surrounded by the natural beauty that is ideal for those seeking solitude and peace. Panchgani, located near another lovely hill station (Mahabaleshwar), boasts lush green forests and a few charming tourist attractions such as Table Land, Parsi Point, Pandavgadh Caves, Wai, Devil’s Kitchen, Sydney Point, and Rajpuri Caves. The majority of visitors come to Panchgani for its indescribable peace and beauty, and if you share their sentiments, Panchgani is the perfect destination for you!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
As a result, you are aware that you have a wide range of choices. Decide what you want to do with your winter vacation and get on the road to West India! Let us know how your trip goes in the comments below.