5 Sunny Destinations in India to Break Away from the Cold

Winter is knocking at our doors, and if like me, you too aren’t very keen on the colder months, consider escaping to these excellent destinations across India that promise a lot of fun under the sun​. 

Goa

Goa, the land of sun, sea and surf makes for a perfect winter getaway. Apart from its beaches, Goa is also known for its colonial churches, complete with Portuguese Baroque style architecture, delicious seafood, and of course, a vibrant nightlife. Relax by the beach, or if you’re an adventure enthusiast, enjoy water sports like jet skiing, speed boating, banana boat rides and parasailing.
Spend a day in Old Goa visiting ancient Portuguese churches—the most famous being the Basilica of Bom Jesus which contains the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Spend the evening at one of Goa’s many nightclubs, like Tito’s, Mambos, Curlies, or St. Anthony’s—especially popular for its karaoke nights.

Book Your Flight to Goa

Read More: Top 10 Things to Do in Goa

Pondicherry

A former French colony, this quaint little town is known for its colonial buildings, beaches and authentic French food. If you’re looking at experiencing Pondicherry differently, we suggest you spend a few days at Auroville, known for its quiet and peaceful community living. Spend time here learning the nuances of Pottery and even Patisserie! Auroville has its own bakery where you must try a traditional French breakfast and other French delights like brioche, cookies, lemon cake, fruit tarts and cream puffs. Sounds perfect doesn’t it!

Book Your Flight to Pondicherry​

Read More: Places to Visit in Pondicherry

Alleppey

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​Placid backwaters, swaying green coconut palms and lush green vistas everywhere you look—that’s Alleppey for you. The serene waterways of Alleppey are best explored onboard a Kettuvellam (houseboat). Most houseboats are fully furnished and come equipped with a bedroom, sundeck, bathroom, kitchen and AC’s. The staff onboard includes a captain, lifeguard and chef. Don’t forget to savour traditional Keralan food like appams with stew, fish curry and Malabar parotas during your stay on the houseboat. Spend a relaxing day on the backwaters reading, relaxing or just reviving your smoke and traffic weary souls by absorbing the lush views of paddy fields and tiny villages in the distance.

Book Your Flight to Ernakulum (Nearest Airport)

Read more: 10 FAQs About the Houseboats in Alleppey Answered!​

Mahabalipuram

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Far away from the chilly winds, the sunny temple town of Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is popular for its historic temples. One of the most popular attractions here include Arjuna’s Penance-a gigantic relief carving on two adjacent boulders. The monument is engraved with scenes from Hindu mythology, like Arjuna fasting on one leg. Other noteworthy attractions here include The Five Rathas (a Hindu temple dating back to the 7th century) and the Shore Temple, a magnificent 8th-century rock structure overlooking the sea.
If you’re keen, you can also try your hands at sculpting and stone carving guided by the local artisans. While you’re here don’t forget to buy soapstone and granite sculptures. If you choose, your shopping can be parcelled back to you in any part of the world, saving you the hassle of lugging it back!

Read More: Discover the Monuments of Mahabalipuram

Book Your Flight to Chennai

So where are you heading to chase away those winter blues?