Best Resorts for Celebrating a White Christmas

Christmas in a hill station in India has a special appeal. Pine trees stand silhouetted in the windows of private cottages and driveways glisten with snow. People huddle around lit fireplaces and enjoy hot chocolate together and families eagerly capture bright holiday memories on camera, with snowmen smiling away in the background. Every place comes alive with song and dance, and the reds, greens and whites make an appearance in décor, clothes and even food.
If this distinct picture of Christmas is lighting up your hearts too, you must plan a trip to a serene resort nestled in the lap of snow clad valleys. To take the load of planning off from your head, we’ve lined up the 5 best resorts you must head to, for celebrating a white Christmas. Skiing, hot water Jacuzzis, evening walks by the fir-tree-lined-paths or an elaborate Christmas dinner with the family, we’ve got you covered.

Oberoi Wildflower Hall, Shimla

Situated at 8,000 feet with 22 acres of lush green forests, Oberoi Wildflower Hall makes for a picture-perfect winter vacation destination. Close your eyes for a minute and imagine sitting in a glass walled bar with a glass of fine wine in your hand, enjoying the stunning views of the cedar forests and the Himalayan peaks. Sounds dreamy, doesn’t it? Oberoi Wildflower makes this dream come true. Known for its brilliant location, this hotel serves as the perfect break from big city life, offering you a perfect gateway to hiking, rafting, cycling, jogging, even yoga! Their mouth-watering Himalayan cuisine preparations are well worth sampling. When here, do not miss out on the Ayurveda treatments at their spa, and the baths on the rooftop which overlook the mighty Himalayas.

Location: Shimla Kufri Highway, Chharabra, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Tariff: Rs. 17,000 onwards*

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Read more: Tourist Places in Shimla You Must Not Miss on Your Next Trip

The Himalayan Resort and Spa, Manali

How about time travelling this holiday season? Check into the gorgeous villas and castles built in the Victorian Gothic Revival style at The Himalayan Resort and Spa and enjoy the breath-taking views of the winter wonderland. Perched on the slopes of the Himalayas at a height of over 2000 meters, The Himalayan Resort and Spa offers cottages surrounded by cherry and apple orchards. Here, the guests can enjoy splendid views of the snow-capped peaks and waterfalls all around. Lovers of old-school traditions and slow living will fall in love with this resort, as it offers a mesmerizing balance of the warm old-world charm and a modern style of living. Families can bond over outdoor activities like safaris, biking, paragliding, rock climbing, skiing, rafting, camping and much more, all of which are organized by the resort.

Location: Hadimba Road, Kullu Valley, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Tariff: Rs.7,000 onwards*

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Read more: Manali: A Quick and Handy Travel Guide

Mayfair Spa Resort and Casino, Gangtok

Spread across sprawling 48 acres of forested land on the outskirts of Gangtok, Mayfair Spa Resort and Casino is world famous for being home to Casino Mahjong—India’s first fully licensed live gaming venue on land. The 18 card tables see guests pouring in throughout the year from all over the world, more so during the Christmas season. Hailed to be one of the best spa resorts in India, this property offers a wonderful ambiance and immensely pampering stays in its imperial villas and private cottages. Idyllic for families seeking wellness vacations with stunning views, fresh air and therapeutic spa treatments, a holiday here makes for a rejuvenating experience like none other. A health club, kid’s play area, business center and multi-cuisine restaurants contribute to the joys of being here.  

Location: Lower Samdur Block, Ranipool, Gangtok, Sikkim
Tariff: Rs. 7,000 onwards*

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Read More: Gangtok: A Quick and Handy Travel Guide​

Vivanta By Taj-Dal View, Srinagar

A warm start to a cold new year awaits you at this gorgeous property that offers unparalleled views of the Dal Lake. Popular amongst couples for a perfect romantic break, this dream-like resort comprises 82 luxurious rooms overlooking the tulips, lotus, snow-peaked mountains and golden chinars. Breakfast can be enjoyed here with a 360-degree view of the majestic Himalayas, the Mughal gardens, the spectacular lotus carpets and the delightful old city. Evening meals can be savoured on the terrace while basking in the glory of the sunset over the lake. Spend this holiday season with a warm cup of kahwa as you watch the shikaras move on the Dal Lake.

Location: Kralsangri, Brein, Near Mughal Gardens, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Tariff: Rs.10,000 onwards*

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Fortune The Savoy, Mussoorie

Popular for its warm hospitality and brilliant location, Fortune The Savoy has found fans in many travellers. Opened by an Irish barrister Cecil D. Lincoln in 1902, this English Gothic architecture style hotel in Mussoorie offers 50 beautiful, quaint, and cozy rooms. Much of the original English Gothic architecture that fell to disrepair over the years has been resurrected in all its historical glory. Fancy a traditional Christmas dinner by the fireplace on a cold night at this masterpiece of a hotel? Relish an authentic Christmas spread—a picture perfect celebration complete with elaborate dishes with exotic garnishes, mistletoes, and Christmas trees. Antique furniture and ornaments dominate the décor, lending an old school vibe to this property, recognized by its sprawling lawns where a traditional High Tea can be enjoyed.

Location: Library Bazar, Gandhi Chowk, P.O. Savoy, Mall Road, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Tariff: Rs.14,000 onwards*

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Read More: Places to Visit in Mussoorie—The Eternally Charming Hill Station

*Prices may vary